How to Select a Family Boat
At Reeder-Trausch Marine Indy, we know that buying a boat is like buying a car; it's a big decision. While some purchases are quick and easy, choosing the right boat takes a little more thought. We’re here to help you find the perfect fit for family fun on Indiana lakes.
Family Boat Considerations
When it comes to buying a boat for your family, you have many options. However, deciding which one is right for you depends on your budget and what you want to do on the water.
Some things to consider when choosing a boat include the size of your family, your preferred on-the-water activities, your budget, the boat's maintenance requirements, and what you need to store and/or tow it.
Pontoon Boats
Pontoon boats are all the rage when it comes to family boats. They're easy to maintain and easy to use. There's plenty of storage on the boat and room to move around. Small pontoons can still accommodate as many as eight people, while larger pontoons have room for up to 15. No one will feel confined or restricted on a pontoon boat. Not only that, but pontoons are versatile. You can pack watersports equipment, fishing gear, and more. These boats are great for cruising on local lakes.
If you’re looking for a high-quality, family-friendly pontoon, Bennington pontoons are among the best in the industry. Known for their comfort, durability, and thoughtful layout designs, Bennington models offer a premium experience for both relaxing and entertaining on the water.
Cabin Cruisers
Cabin cruisers are powerboats with an enclosed cabin that can be used for relaxing or even sleeping, depending on the size. They offer great versatility for lake activities like cruising, fishing, and watersports.
Compared to pontoons, they usually require more experience to operate, maintain, and navigate due to their size and features.
Fishing Boats
Fishing boats are built with a purpose, catching fish, and often come equipped with features like live wells to store your catch. While they don’t usually have sleeping quarters or room for large groups like pontoons or cabin cruisers, they’re a great fit for families who love to fish together. If casting lines and spending quiet mornings on the water sounds like your kind of family fun, fishing boats could be the perfect match.
For families looking for a reliable and proven fishing platform, Lund fishing boats are a top choice. Lund is known for building high-performance aluminum fishing boats that handle Indiana lakes with ease. Their practical layouts and rock-solid construction make them ideal for serious anglers and weekend family outings alike.
Most fishing boats are designed for lakes, but river-specific models differ slightly in build. You can use a river boat on a lake, but lake boats don’t always perform well on rivers due to their deeper hulls and less agile handling, which can make navigating shallow or fast-moving water more difficult.
Using Your Family Boat
No matter which family boat you choose, it’s a smart idea to take a boating safety course and make sure everyone on board knows the basics. Make sure to pack safety equipment like life jackets, a first-aid kit, navigation tools, a marine radio, and a fire extinguisher. Once you're on the water, it's a good idea to have shade, comfortable seating, and plenty of snacks and water if you plan to be out for a while.
Find out more about how to choose a family boat when you visit Reeder-Trausch Marine Indy today.
