small shallow draft sailboats

The Best Shallow Draft Liveaboard Sailboat 2024

Looking for the best shallow draft liveaboard sailboat.

If you’re looking for the best shallow draft liveaboard sailboat then look no further.

After four years of living aboard our super shallow draft monohull, we are shallow draft boat connoisseurs and we can’t imagine being happy in anything other than a shallow keeled boat.

There are many different types of sailboats, and the best shallow draft liveaboard sailboat may not be the same for everyone. Some factors you might want to consider when choosing a sailboat include size, type of sailing, comfort, and cost.

One thing is fir sure, when choosing a vessel you will want to take into account the draft of a boat to make sure you can access the waterways you intend on cruising.

In this post, we will take a look at some of the best shallow keel liveaboard sailboats on the market today. So if you are in the market for a new sailboat, keep reading!

Table of Contents

The best large shallow draft sailboats.

• The best small shallow keel sailboats

Shallow water sailing

The best spot in the anchorage, less chance of grounding, extra moving parts.

• How To Find The Perfect Liveaboard Sailboat For You

We’ve got some great suggestions for shallow draft liveaboard sailboats that are 38ft or above. Boats of this size are usually more practical for ocean crossings and have enough living space for a couple who expect to have guests regularly, or for a family.

#1 Kadey Krogen 38

The Kadey Krogen 38 is one of the best large shallow draft sailboats on the market today, offering plenty of space and comfort for all your sailing adventures (and we’re not just saying that because we live on one!)

With a maximum draft of just 3 feet, it can easily go where other boats cannot, making it perfect for exploring shallow waters. We have often entered a busy anchorage, snuck in shallow, and had all the room in the world.

The Kadey Krogen 38s are quite unique. All the ballast is in the tiny keel, and she has two centreboards that help performance. The large centreboard in the middle of the boat helps it point closer to the wind.

After a year of sailing without a functional centreboard we did find our upwind performance improved with the centreboard and tacking and heaving to was easier as well.

The after board helps with weather helm in heavy seas. It does make the steering handle a lot easier and is a great thing to have at your disposal, but we have also been in heavy seas and forgotten to lower it and the boat still tracked fine.

What we really love about this design is the flexibility. As there is no weight in the boards we aren’t worried about losing them, and therefore losing the keel. The keel is fully encapsulated and going nowhere!

As a liveaboard sailboat, the Kadey Krogen 38s are extremely roomy. They have a wide beam and really make the most of the space. In fact, you could almost say they were designed for liveaboard, as the space is that cleverly laid out.

The cockpit is spacious which is perfect for entertaining. We have regularly seated 8 people in the cockpit and it has never felt like a squeeze. The locker lids are large enough to sleep on and we regularly do in the summer months when it’s stuffy below.

Saying that, we have never felt unsafe in big seas as there is coving all the way around and plenty of handholds and clip-in points.

The interior is slightly different on each different boat, but they all have a separate shower in the head which is super handy, and the cabins have their own sinks. The owner’s bed is a full-sized double so you can use an off-the-shelf mattress, and there is storage for days.

One of the biggest drawbacks of this small keeled liveaboard sailboat is the compromise in steerage astern. She doesn’t do well with Med-mooring!

If you’re looking for a great shallow draft liveaboard sailboat that offers plenty of space and comfort, be sure to check out the Kadey Krogen 38.

Check it out on Sailboat Data

#2 Freedom Cat 40 Centreboard

If you’re looking for a great liveaboard sailboat with a shallow draft that offers plenty of space and comfort, be sure to check out the Freedom Cat 40 Centreboard. With a maximum draft of just 4 feet, this boat has no problem exploring the shallow waters of your favorite cruising grounds.

This boat sails well, especially on a reach, and is easy enough to handle as a couple or even a solo sailor.

Like the Kadey Krogen 38, this sailboat has a large cockpit but the Freedom 40 has a centre cockpit, which many prefer.

Another standout feature of the Freedom Cat 40 is its spacious and well-designed interior. This boat is a great size for a liveaboard couple, with a large double bed aft as well as a v-berth forward.

While it does have some drawbacks–like poor maneuverability in reverse – there’s no doubt that the Freedom Cat 40 Centreboard is one of the best shallow draft liveaboard sailboats on the market today.

So if you’re looking for comfort, space, and flexibility, be sure to check out this amazing liveaboard sailboat!

#3 C&C 40 Centreboard Version

If you’re looking for an amazing shallow draft sailboat to live on that offers plenty of space and comfort, then the C&C 40 Centreboard Version is definitely worth considering.

With a maximum draft of just over 4 feet, this boat has no problem exploring the shallow waters of your favorite cruising grounds.

To maintain the same stability as the deeper keel versions of this sailboat, the centerboard boat carries an additional 885 pounds of ballast, making her noticeably slower in light air.

In tests, she was shown to be about 4 seconds slower per mile than the normal keel version in about 8 knots of wind, but basically identical in speed with 15+ knots of wind. For most cruisers, this won’t be an issue, but if you’re planning on using this sailboat for racing too then you might opt for the standard keel instead.

Another standout feature of this liveaboard sailboat is its spacious interior, designed for long-term living aboard. This boat can easily accommodate a couple, with a large v-berth forward as well as plenty of storage space throughout the interior.

there’s no doubt that the C&C 40 Centreboard Version is an incredibly comfortable and practical boat to sail.

#4 Privilege 435 Catamaran

The Privilege 435 is built for performance and comfort, making it the perfect shallow keel liveaboard sailboat.

Most of these sailboats were built relatively recently, so while you might not be able to bag a bargain, you will find the latest navigation and safety equipment on board.

The fit and finish of these catamarans are excellent. You can expect high-quality materials and smart storage solutions. There are four separate cabins with their own heads, making it a great liveaboard sailboat for a family.

#5 Lagoon 40

✅ Buy your liveaboard guidebook now

If you’re looking for a great shallow draft liveaboard sailboat that’s packed with top-of-the-line features, then the Lagoon 40 is definitely worth considering.

With a maximum draft of 1.35m, this boat offers plenty of space and comfort while being able to explore the shallow waters of your favorite cruising grounds.

One of the biggest benefits of this amazing sailboat is its spacious and well-designed interior. With plenty of room for a couple or even a solo sailor, you’ll love spending long days at sea aboard the Lagoon 40.

One of the biggest downsides of catamarans is usually their upwind performance, but the Lagoon 40 will keep her speed even at a 50-degree apparent wind angle.

So if you’re looking for comfort, space, and flexibility, be sure to check out this amazing liveaboard sailboat today!

#6 Prout Snowgoose 37

Prout catamarans have a great reputation among liveaboard sailors, and the Snowgoose is one of the most popular designs.

Prout no longer exists as a company, as it was bought by Broadblue in the 90s. Broadblue still makes catamarans today, and they have very similar features to the original Prouts, though obviously they are far fancier and have all the benefits of a more modern design!

The Snowgoose catamaran benefits from a shallow draft of 2.08ft, meaning you won’t have any trouble at all in shallow waters. It sails well and is a suitable bluewater sailboat, however, a low bridge deck clearance makes the boat slam in waves, both at anchor and underway.

The best small shallow draft sailboats to live on

As these are still liveaboard sailboats, we haven’t added any under 30ft. If you’re living aboard solo then 30ft is probably the smallest you will want to go before the sailing lifestyle starts to feel a bit too much like camping!

Here are our top picks for small small keel liveaboard sailboats.

#7 Columbia 31

If you’re looking for a compact, high-quality shallow keel sailboat that’s perfect for both recreational sailing and liveaboard cruising, then the Columbia 31 is definitely worth checking out.

With a maximum draft of just over 3 feet, this sailboat will be able to sneak into shallow anchorages with ease. It sails adequately and will be more than good enough for coastal cruising.

With its small size comes some definite compromises – while it may be great for traveling in sheltered waters and coastal areas, the Columbia 31 doesn’t have much in the way of speed or stability when going offshore.

That said, this little sailboat is incredibly well-built and carries all the hallmarks of quality craftsmanship. Its solid fiberglass hull and spacious interior for a boat of this size make the Columbia 31 a great option for both recreational and liveaboard sailing.

So whether you’re looking to sail in shallow water, explore coastal areas, or just spend some time living aboard, the Columbia 31 is definitely worth considering!

#8 Pearson 35

Pearson makes some great sailboats and is mostly well-regarded within the sailing community. The Pearson 35 is no exception and boasts the longest production run of any other Pearson model.

Boasting a shallow draft of just under 4 feet and a surprisingly spacious interior for a boat of this size, the Pearson 35 is an excellent small-sized liveaboard sailboat that won’t disappoint.

Due to its relatively simple construction, however, there are some definite downsides – while you’ll be able to find older models at great prices, they often have several issues that will need to be repaired before setting off on your next sailing adventure.

That said, if you’re looking for a dependable little sailboat that will allow you to explore shallow waters and coastal areas, the Pearson 35 is definitely worth considering.

#9 Gemini 105Mc (34ft)

The Gemini 105Mc is still in production in the US, which speaks to its popularity.

If you’re looking for a small keel sailboat on the smaller side, that still has plenty of space for living aboard, then this might be the perfect compromise. Many of these small catamarans have completed ocean passages so you won’t be limited on cruising grounds.

It has two double cabins, good headroom throughout, and nice finishes too.

A significant negative to this boat is the bridge deck clearance which isn’t amazing so you may experience some slamming. But that aside, this is a great small draft sailboat for anyone wanting to live aboard.

#10 Prout Event 34

These multihulls are quite hard to find, but if you like the Snowgoose but are on a tighter budget then they might be just what you’re looking for. These shallow draft catamarans share lots of features with the popular Snowgoose designs, just on a smaller scale.

There are three cabins, one head, a salon, and a galley, only they are rather squeezed in compared to the larger model.

The Prout Event 34 sails well and has crossed oceans, though it is also known for its slamming so if this is something that bothers you then you might want to think again before buying this liveaboard sailboat.

These shallow draft catamarans have an excellent reputation among cruisers because of their solid build and use of decent materials.

The boat has three cabins, a galley, saloon, and a head, so it’s perfect for slightly larger crews, though it’s obviously on the smaller side compared to some of the large shallow draft liveaboard boats on this list.

This catamaran sails well and people have crossed oceans in them, though they are probably better suited to coastal cruising

The bridge deck clearance is good on this catamaran so you shouldn’t experience too much slamming.

Why buy a narrow keel sailboat to live on?

There are many reasons why someone might choose to buy a sailboat with a small draft as a liveaboard.

Perhaps you don’t want the hassle of anchoring in deep water or dealing with the challenges that come with mooring, or maybe you simply enjoy being able to explore shallow coastal areas where other boats can’t go.

We’ll explore some of the reasons in more depth below.

Shallow water sailing refers to cruising in coastal areas where other boats cannot go.

The shallow draft of a sailboat means that you can easily explore coves, anchorages, and bays off the beaten track. Even if it’s just for an afternoon, there is something really special about being able to truly get away from it all by sailing away from the crowds in a secluded cove or anchorage.

One of the great things about living aboard a sailboat is that you have the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want. You can easily move on if you find somewhere that better suits your needs, or stay put and enjoy all the great amenities at your favorite anchorage.

While many people love big marinas with all their facilities and good ground tackle, many others prefer the peace and quiet of a secluded anchorage. If you’re one of those people who simply love finding the best spot in an anchorage then living aboard a shallow draft sailboat is perfect for you.

You will be able to sneak into bays that no one else can reach, or anchor in shallow waters of busier anchorages when there is seemingly no space.

On a sailboat with a lifting centreboard you have lowered odds of damaging your boat.

In fact, we have even heard of experienced sailors using their centreboard as a worst-case depth sounder, allowing you to risk sneaking into unchartered shallow waters without any significant risk of damaging your boat.

If you hit rock bottom (literally) then at best your centreboard will be knocked higher into its slot, and at worst you might damage the centreboard a little, but either way, your keel will remain unharmed!

The disadvantages of a shallow draft liveaboard sailboat

As always, alongside the advantages of shallow draft sailboats are some disadvantages to make you question your decision.

For us, after four years of living aboard, we would say the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, but it is so depending on personal opinion and taste.

Here are the main disadvantages of shallow keel liveaboard sailboats.

One reason that many people choose not to live aboard a sailboat with a small draft is the reduced stability.

Compared to a deeper draft boat, your centre of gravity is lower on a shallow draft sailboat which can be worrying when you are in open water, particularly if there are swells or high winds.

On our Kadey Krogen 38 we haven’t found this to be a problem. She handles brilliantly in big seas and we have always felt very safe and stable. In swelly anchorages, she doesn’t fair so well and is usually one of the more rolly boats in the anchorages (though interestingly quite often not the worst!)

Another disadvantage of a shallow draft sailboat is that they are not always easy to steer, especially when going astern.

Our sailboats prop walk is quite impressive! Getting into mooring slips astern is very tricky indeed. This is a problem on a lot of deep, full-keeled sailboats so we aren’t alone in our troubles! One way around this is to just enter mooring slips forward and drop an anchor astern.

A sailboat with a centreboard is not as simple to maintain as one without.

In the four years that we’ve owned our boat, we have replaced both her swing keel bearing and the cable that connects it to the winch on deck. For some people, this might be more than they are willing or able to deal with, but for us, it has been simple to do and is part of the reason we love our boat.

How To Find The Perfect Liveaboard Sailboat With A Shallow Draft

If you’re looking to buy a shallow keel sailboat then you’ll need to take a few things into consideration.

Budget is key for most people when buying a boat to live in. You will need to compromise between size, age of the boat, and budget. Smaller, older monohulls tend to be cheaper than larger, newer multihulls.

One of the most convenient ways to decide where to search for sailboats is to look in the location you will be cruising in. This is easy enough if your cruising grounds are popular and large, like in Europe or the USA.

You will find it much harder to find the right boat for you if you’re only prepared to buy in a very specific place or on cruising grounds that are tricky to reach, like remote islands. That being said, if you can find the right boat for you in one of these places then you are more likely to get a great deal.

Size of Sailboat

As mentioned earlier, the bigger the boat the more you are likely to pay. That being said, if you’re looking for a liveaboard sailboat then the last thing you want to do is buy a boat that is far too small to meet your requirements.

Consider how many people will be living aboard full time, or almost full time. For a couple, a 38ft boat is usually a comfortable size, though there are couples living on 34-36ft boats (and they’re still together!)

For a family, or if you plan on having crew on for longer periods of time, you might consider getting a larger monohull or a catamaran so that everyone can have their own private space on board.

Larger boats tend to be more comfortable at sea too, so make sure you go for something a little bigger if you plan on crossing oceans.

Conclusion: The Best Shallow Draft Liveaboard Sailboats

Ultimately, finding the perfect boat will depend on what is important to you and what kind of experience you want to have while living on board.

The best shallow keel liveaboard sailboat is one that meets all of your needs and requirements. Whether you are looking for something large or small, budget-friendly or luxurious, there is sure to be a boat out there that will fit the bill.

So do your research, talk to other boaters in your area, and make sure you find the perfect vessel for your unique needs. Happy hunting!

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6 Popular Low-Draft Boats for Shallow Water (With Pictures)

Many people have been asking for low-draft boats.

Here are six popular low-draft boats for shallow water.

Table of Contents

The Tiburon LX-21

The LX-21 has a draft that sits at only 5 inches deep.

It can cruise through the water almost as quickly as a jet ski, and to see it in action is almost surreal.  On top of this, it can retain shallow drafts of 8″ with four adults on top of it.

Tiburon has put this boat’s console right in the center, and a small bench seat stands right behind it.  The boat’s bow has a nice deck on it that would make fishing, crabbing, or even clamming friendly and easy.  It would also make a good jump-off point for anybody looking to do some wading or swimming.

This boat also features six built-in fishing rod holders and two different storage areas for holding gear.

The boat can handle up to a 175HP engine and go up to 50 miles per hour with this engine. This is all fueled with a 54-gallon fuel tank.

It’s also only 21′ long and 8’6″ wide and has a hull weight of fewer than 1,000 pounds.  This makes this boat a comfortable boat to trailer.

The only downside I can see to this boat is that it is expensive.  Expect to pay at least $45,000.00 for a new Tiburon LX-21.

The Egret 167

This boat is 16’7″ long with a beamwidth of 7’3″.

It is made from either fiberglass or Kevlar, with each weighing in at 800 pounds or 700 pounds, respectively.  Not quite as light as an aluminum boat would be but a lot more durable and capable in shallow waters.

The boat comes with many engine options ranging from 70HP to 140HP.  These engines come from Yamaha, Mercury, E-Tec, or Suzuki.  To fuel the engine, the boat has a 41-gallon fuel tank.  This is pretty large, considering the boat is only 16’7″ long.

The 167 also has a center console with a multitude of rod holders attached to it.  However, the seat is a bench seat integrated into the boat, and it seems to sit a bit lower than Tiburon’s bench seat.

You’ll notice that the bow of the boat features a lovely spacious deck with a storage area.  There are also storage areas on the sides as well as at the rear of the boat.  This boat was built for fishing in low waters, and it has a draft of only 9″.

The boat owners say that the boat is too heavy to pole for long periods of time, but it can handle choppy waters incredibly well for a boat of its size.  They like it because it is stable and easy to catch fish from.

These boats can range from the $30k to $40k price points, depending on the year and the options you choose.

Related Article: 9 Affordable Boats With Enclosed Cabins (with pictures)

The Eldora by Hell’s Bay Boat Works

This boat is a true skiff, and it has a draft of only 3.5 inches.

The boat is also 16’4″ with a beamwidth of 69,” so the 3.5-inch draft is pretty impressive.  It also only weighs 350 pounds, so it can easily be towed.

The engine on this boat is a Yamaha 25 Tiller, and it has a 6-gallon removable gas tank.  With its low weight and shallow draft, this boat can be polled through the water quite easily.

It also has a nice standing platform over the engine, so you’ll have a nice place to pole, to fish from, and to get a good view.

At the front of the boat, you’ll also find a nice standing platform.  Also, it appears that the storage can be gotten to from underneath the front deck, so you don’t have to worry about opening any hatches from the top to get to your gear.

The boat doesn’t have a console, so you’ll have to sit at the rear with the engine in hand, but the backbench comes with a nice pad.

Underneath this bench is a lockable compartment for additional storage.

I couldn’t get an exact price from the manufacturer’s website, but these boats appear to be in the neighborhood of just over $30k.

Related Article: 13 Clever Ways to Get a Good Deal on (New) Boats

The Dragonfly 17 Classic

The Dragonfly 17 is a 17′ boat with an 80″ beam and an 8″ draft.

It weighs in at only 700 pounds, and it could be trailered or even placed on top of a yacht.

This boat comes with a 90HP Evinrude engine with a 24-gallon fuel tank.  A plumbed live well comes standard with the boat, and there are recessed push pole holders molded into it.

The boat has a wood grain console and a nice cushioned backrest on top of the bench seat.  In fact, the entire boat has a luxury feel to it. The deck looks more like a yacht than a skiff, and I’d almost hate to get it dirty while fishing.

This being said, the boat looks like it would make a good fishing boat for shallow waters.  In fact, it has an ample number of fishing rod holders throughout the boat.

The boat is also nice and open, so you’d have plenty of space to move around inside.

Surprisingly, this boat comes in at right around $27,000.00.

Related Article: 9 Tips to Sell Your Boat Quickly (Without Dropping the Price)

The 177 Sport by Scout Boats

This boat has a length of 17’7″, a beam of 7’3″, and a dry weight of around 1,000 pounds.

The draft on the boat is 10,” which is pretty good considering it’s not a skiff and can hold an outboard engine of up to 115HP.

The fuel capacity on the 177 is 20 gallons, and the people capacity is five people.  However, I don’t think you’d have a lot of fun with that many people trying to fish on a boat of this size.

This being said, five people could easily go cruising in the 177.

One of the features that first caught my eye when looking at this boat is that not only does it have a two-person bench behind the console, it also has a seat built into the front of the console.

Combine this with the front deck, and I could see how five people could comfortably sit on this boat.

There are 6-rod holders built into the boat and plenty of areas for storage.  You can also add a bimini top to keep the sun off of you as well.

Scout’s website lists the boat brand new at $24,695.00.  This includes the standard engine and trailer.

Related Article: Minimum Age For Driving or Renting Boats: Rules Per 50 States

The Strike by Beavertail Skiffs

The Strike is 17’6″ long with a beam of 73″ wide.  It has a draft of about 6 inches.

Its gross weight is 550 pounds.

This boat can accommodate an engine of up to 90HP but can be used with an engine as small as 60HP.  It is fueled by a 20-gallon fuel tank, which makes sense for a boat of this size.

The Strike also features a backbench seat with a cushioned backrest and a seat in front of the center console. I’d classify its styling as simple yet clean and functional.

As a true skiff, this boat should be easy to pole, and there is a deck at the back to do it from.  There is also plenty of space at the boat’s bow, which should make poling and fishing nice and easy.

The base price on this boat is $33,000.00.

Related Article: How Much Do Boats Weigh? 11 Types (Numbers & Pictures)

What Is the Minimum Draft on a Boat

Technically speaking, there isn’t a minimum draft that is required on a boat.

However, I’ve yet to see a boat with a draft under a few inches.

In fact, once you put a person into a boat, even the best of drafts will get deeper.

Also, one has to consider that a boat will sit deeper into the water if there is more weight on top of it.  This means that any time you bring friends or even gear along with you, you’ll add to the draft of your boat.

Since fishing with friends is half the fun of boating for most people, it doesn’t always make sense to chase the shallowest drafts.

How Deep Is the Draft on a Pontoon Boat

Pontoon boats all have different drafts depending on how large and how heavy the draft is.

Generally, the larger and heavier the boat, the deeper the draft.

Smaller pontoon boats with small engines can have drafts shallower than 10 inches, while larger boats can easily have drafts higher than 12 inches.

Also, one has to consider that a pontoon boat will have an outboard motor attached to it.  This means that you’ll only be able to go so far into shallow water before having to lift your engine.

Since pontoon boats are hard to pole, this wouldn’t be a great idea.

Final Thoughts

There are many great boats out on the market right now with low drafts.

The classic shallow draft boat for poling is still a Jon boat.

You can choose between typical fishing boats to skiffs, and even pontoons, so if you’re considering buying a boat for shallow water, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from!

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7 Shallow Water Boats You Can Use In Inches Of Water

Whether it be creek fishing, pond pounding, river running or lazy days on the lake, if you plan to boat on inland bodies of water, or near the shoreline, then you will need a boat that can navigate the shallows. We all know that not all boats are suited to shallow water but what you may not know is that not all shallow water boats are suited to every shallow water boating activity.

1. Jon boat – the best shallow water boat for all-round utility use

2. canoe – the best shallow water boat for camping, 3. kayak – another popular camper but also great for other water-based activities, 4. shallow water skiff – best shallow water boat for handling chop, 5. canal boat – mostly used in europe for vacations but used in us as a shallow water river boat, 6. the pontoon boat – best family boat for shallow water, 7. airboat – the ultimate flat bottom vessel when you want speed in the shallows, marine environment factors to consider when choosing between shallow draft boats, water-based activities will restrict your shallow water boat buying choices, knowing the number of crew members that will be on your boat is important, the best boats for shallow water.

What boats are best for shallow water?

The best boats for shallow water have flat-bottomed hulls.

Different shallow draft boats suit different marine environments and different activities.

The capacity to be used in skinny water means these flat bottom vessels are also called shallow draft boats.

The best hallow water boat for your needs will depend on the exact type of environment you intend to use the boat in and the specific activities you will use it for.

7 Shallow water boats by type & usage – the best skinny water boats

If you already know which type of boat you need and only want a run-down of the best boats for shallow water read this article .

If you are unsure about which specific shallow water boat is best suited to you please read on.

The thing that makes a boat fit for use in shallow water is its shallow draft.

A shallow draft boat sits very close to the surface of the water making it extremely stable in calm waters and giving it the capability of navigating waters that are extremely shallow.

This is exactly opposite to a v-hull deep draft boat that is used for turbulent waters and the ocean.

If you do not understand the difference between shallow draft and deep draft we would advise you to quickly read this short overview of draft .

This will allow you to better understand what it is that makes a good shallow water boat.

7 Types of shallow water boats

Before we can narrow down exactly which boat is the best fit for you it is a good idea to look at the different types of shallow water boats available.

Although there are a large range of shallow water boats ( see our list of flat bottomed boats ), I will assume that you are interested in a personal utility or recreational vessel.

Therefore I will exclude watercraft such as large industrial barges, sailing dories and gondolas etc.

The type of shallow water, shallow draft boat that will suit your personal needs will fall into one of the following categories:

• Flat-bottomed skiff

This is a rather large list of boat types which can be intimidating to the new boater.

So, let’s take a quick look at these boat types and see in which environments they perform best.

If you don’t know what a Jon boat is read our article outlining its unique and distinct design characteristics.

That article includes the many benefits it offers people who regularly navigate inland bodies of water.

A Jon boat is a cheap, versatile, utility boat that is perfect for use in extremely shallow waters.

Jon boats are the most popular personal shallow boat in the US because they are so versatile and affordable.

In fact, you can even build your own for a fraction of the cost of a new one.

Jon boats are very popular across the world and are a very common sight on American waters as they are used for utility work, fishing, hunting and transportation across shallow waterways.

In fact a Jon boat is one of the most popular shallow water fishing boats used on inland waterways.

Jon boats are the best choice for use in creeks, rivers, ponds and lakes.

But be aware that they don’t handle rough water very well (see our article The Truth about Jon Boats and Rough Water ).

However, there are exceptions to this that come in the form of semi-v (also know as mod-v ) Jon boats.

Semi-v Jon boats are more capable of handling more challenging waters than a standard Jon boat but they still have a shallow draft.

If you want more information of the two types of Jon boat read our article about Jon boat types.

Be aware that if you plan to use your shallow draft Jon boat in saltwater you will need to take precautions to protect it as it will undoubtedly be made from aluminum.

Jon boats are lightweight and very easy to transport.

The Jon boat is, arguably, the best shallow water river boat.

It is most certainly the most popular.

If, after reading this article, you feel that a Jon boat is the best type of shallow water vessel for your needs, be sure to read our Jon boat buyer’s guide .

This will help you pick the right one at the right price for you.

The canoe has been around for at least 10,000 years and it is no surprise.

It is an excellent shallow watercraft for use on inland waterways and many canoes are even sea-worthy.

Canoes are usually larger and wider than Jon boats and offer more room to store more stuff.

This makes them a very popular choice for boat camping .

The canoe has been traditionally used for transportation and fishing.

Today it is still one of the more popular shallow water fishing boats for individual use.

However, they are not as versatile and don’t lend themselves as well to the many customizations that Jon boats do .

Where a Jon boat looks like a utility vessel and is usually painted green, a canoe is usually made of stained or painted wood and just looks awesome.

If you want to paddle n style use a canoe!

Although most canoes will be propelled via simple one bladed paddles they can be easily fitted with an outboard trolling motor.

Canoes are not a easy to steer as Jon boats but that doesn’t mean they are difficult to maneuver.

As they are usually big, bulky and heavy they can be more difficult to transport and move over land.

If you are unsure about whether a canoe or a Jon boat is a better fit for you read our article on that subject here .

If you have already decided that a canoe is better for you then be sure to read our canoe buyer’s guide .

A kayak is much smaller than a canoe and is better suited to solo or tandem use.

Kayaks, like Jon boats, are extremely versatile vessels, but for different reasons.

Although there are several different kayak designs (for sea use, calm water use, whitewater use etc.) there are only two basic kayak types:

• Sit-on-top kayaks
• Sit-in kayaks

Both sit-on-top and sit-in kayaks have a shallow draft meaning they can navigate shallow waters.

The kayak is mostly used for water-based activities that range from whitewater kayaking to ocean kayaking .

However, they are also popular for solo fishing though much less popular than most other shallow water fishing boats.

However, there are key differences between these two vessels.

You can read more about that in the article Sit-in vs sit-on kayak. A guide to picking the best one for you .

For simplicity sake will define the difference as: a sit-on-top kayak is best suited to fishing while a sit-in kayak is better for everything else.

Of course the above explanation is a huge over-simplification but it should give you a basic ideas of which kayak type is better for you.

Sit-in kayaks come in several different types from sea-worthy touring kayaks to whitewater and surfing kayaks.

All sit-in kayaks have a shallow draft and can navigate shallow waters but not all kayaks are suited to rough water.

Likewise, not kayaks are suited to calm water either.

For use in calm shallow inland waters a flat-bottomed kayak is probably the best choice (see our article why choose a flat bottom kayak ).

For touring in shallow shorelines a touring kayak would be a better choice.

To understand which kayak design is best suited for which environments and activities see this article .

Not all skiffs are suited to shallow waters. For shallow water use you will need a flat-bottomed skiff . These boats are also known as a shallow water skiffs .

A flat bottomed skiff is usually used for fishing in large lakes or along the ocean shoreline.

Due to its v-shaped bow it can usually handle rougher waters better than other flat-bottomed boats.

After the Jon boat shallow water skiffs would be the most common type of shallow water fishing boats you would see in skinny waters.

A flat-bottomed skiff is an excellent fishing vessel especially used in large bodies of open water that have deep areas or that experience choppy conditions.

A canal boat in the UK and Ireland, and to a lesser degree in France and a few other European countries, differs greatly from a canal boat in the USA and the rest of the world.

A canal boat in Ireland and the UK is called a narrowboat and has a very distinctive shape, being very long and very narrow so it can fit onto the narrow canals of the British Isles.

The narrowboat experience is very different from a trip on a canal boat in the USA.

Because canals in America are much wider, and usually deeper, canal boat here are usually much larger and faster.

Canal boats work well in large canals, rivers and on some lakes.

If you think a canal boat is the best fit for you or want to learn more about them read this article .

If you are interested in taking a canal boat vacation on a narrowboat read this article .

Technically speaking a pontoon boat is a flat bottom boat because its hull is flat.

But the two (or sometimes three) pontoon tubes it sits on make that description arguable.

Either way, a pontoon boat is a shallow water boat that is capable of navigating skinny water easily.

In fact, the shallow draft of this boat means you can even beach it !

Pontoon boats are by far the best family boat fir shallow water because they are stable, safe, easy to handle and offer a lot of room on deck with multiple fun things to do on them .

An airboat is the prefect shallow water boat for swamps, creeks and rivers.

Although not as common as the other types of shallow water boat on our list they are still popular across the world especially in southern areas of the USA and in Canada.

An airboat lends itself well to extreme shallow-water powered-boating.

Airboats can be mechanically propelled at high speed in areas that even a Jon boat cannot access via a motor (though they can with a paddle or pole).

If you plan to navigate large areas of shallow water where the noise of an airplane propeller will not be a problem then an airboat may be your shallow water vessel of choice.

If you are still unsure about which shallow water boat is the best fit for you read this

If you still don’t know which boat type best fits your needs then worry not because there is an easy way to find out.

How to identify which shallow draft boat type is right for you

Now that you know you need a shallow draft boat you need to find the exact type of shallow draft boat that is best suited to your specific individual needs.

You can see from the list of vessels above, and our brief rundown of their benefits and uses, that each boat type is suited to specific environments and activities.

If, after reading that you still don’t know how to choose from them then follow the advice below.

Simply asking yourself three simple questions will help you determine which boat type and size is the best fit for you.

The three questions are:

• Where will you use the boat?
• What will you use the boat for?
• How many people will be on the boat?

The marine environment in which you use your boat will have a huge impact on the type of boat you buy.

Obviously you already know that you need a shallow water boat but there’s more to it than that when it comes to choosing one.

The specific shallow water marine environment you plan to use the boat in will affect both the type of shallow water boat you need and the size of it.

If you will only be navigating calm waters then any type of shallow draft boat will do you.

However, if the areas you frequent encounter strong winds and choppy waters you will need a vessel that can ride choppy waves well.

Areas with challenging waters would rule out a standard Jon boat but may be favorable to a semi-v Jon.

By understanding the type of marine environment you will boat in, and the typical weather you will encounter, it becomes easier to see which boat types are best suited to those conditions.

You will also know ones are ill-suited to them.

So, it’s obvious to see now why the environment and the conditions the boat will be used in impacts the type of boat you can use.

But you should also be aware that the marine environment will also impact your choice of boat size.

Some boats, that are otherwise perfect for your needs, may be too big to use.

For example, a large, long canoe will be difficult to maneuver in creeks and rivers with narrow, tight turns.

A large Jon boat or skiff may encounter similar problems.

Not all shallow water boats are suited to all shallow water boating activities.

For example, a skiff and kayak are not a good choices for hunting while a Jon boat would be a poor choice for ocean fishing even in the shallows near the shoreline.

So identify what you intend to use your shallow water boat for and then look above to see which boat is best suited to those activities.

The size of your shallow water boat is not just dependent on the environment in which it will be used.

Size will also depend largely on how many people will be onboard at any one time.

However, there are other considerations.

For example, if you are a keen duck hunter or boat camper then you will need plenty of space for gear.

Identifying what you will do in your boat should also help you identify how many people you will be doing it with and what type of additional space you need in the boat for gear and equipment.

Mick McGrath

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Best Boat For Shallow Water: 17 new models that can go less than 6 inches (ca. 15 cm) deep

Exploring the shallow waters, whether it’s for fishing, leisure, or research, requires a vessel that can handle such precarious conditions. The freedom and thrill of navigating through tight, shallow channels or casting a line in secluded flats are unparalleled, but these joyous moments can quickly turn sour without the right boat. This is your comprehensive guide to discovering the best boat for shallow water, taking into consideration crucial factors such as depth requirements, hull design, material, and engine power.

To start, let’s understand the different types of shallow water boats. These include Jon boats, Skiffs, Flats boats, Bay Boats and Tunneled Jon boats, which require the least water. Each of these boats come with their respective pros and cons, designed to meet specific water conditions and user preferences. For instance, Jon boats are known for their flat bottoms, suitable for navigating shallow waters with ease. Skiffs, small and simple, with a minimalist layout and absence of complex systems, are often seen as the ideal boats for shallow waters.

Flats boats, as the name suggests, are designed specifically for fishing in shallow, flat waters. Bay boats, on the other hand, are versatile and offer a comfortable ride in both shallow and deep waters. Scooters and Tunnel boats also hold their unique features, making them viable options for shallow water navigation. Your choice among these boats would be dependent on your specific needs, water conditions, and personal preference.

Extreme shallow water boats deserve a special mention here. These boats are designed to navigate in as little as 6 inches of water, offering the ultimate in shallow water navigation. They are a testament to human ingenuity, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, and opening up new avenues for exploration and adventure.

Another key aspect to consider when choosing a boat for shallow water is its impact on the environment. Boats designed for shallow water are usually lightweight, resulting in minimal draft. This reduces the risk of damaging the seafloor, making it a more environmentally friendly option.

With this in mind, let’s dive deeper into our list of the 17 best boats for shallow water. From the Caymas 281 HB Bay Boat to the SeaArk 2672 MV Jon boat, each of these vessels stands out for their unique features and capabilities. Understanding the specifics of each of these boats will help you make an informed choice, ensuring a safe and enjoyable shallow water experience.

Navigating in shallow waters can be a challenge, but with the right boat, it becomes an exhilarating adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a casual boater, understanding the dynamics of shallow water boating can transform your experience. So, hop on as we embark on this journey to find the best boat for shallow waters!

Everything you will learn here

17. Sylvan L3 Party Fish (Jon Boats)

16. caymas 281 hb bay boat (bay boat), 15. sportsman masters 267oe (bay boat), 14. nitro z19 sport (flats boat), 13. hewes 21 redfisher (flats boat), 12. scout 251 xss (flats boat), 11. contender 26 bay (bay boat), 10. lowe l1648 (jon boats), 9. seaark 2672 mv (jon boats), 8. pathfinder 2200 trs (bay boat), 7. hewes redfisher 18 (flats boat), 6. dolphin 17′ super skiff pro, 5. east cape evo (skiff), 4. mitzi skiffs 17 tournament (skiff), 3. best boat for shallow water: maverick 18 hpx-v (skiff), 2. best boat for shallow water: sterling tr7 (skiff), 1. best boat for shallow water: yellowfin 17 skiff and 17 ce (skiff), best jon boats for shallow water, best skiffs for shallow water, best flats boats for shallow water, best bay boats for shallow water, jet ski cannot run in shallow water, tunnel-hull jon boat, watch out for color changes in the water, use a chartplotter to track your course, wear sunglasses, be careful if you don’t know the area, use a pushpole when in doubt, shallow water fishing boats, conclusion: best boat for shallow water, what type of boat is best suited for shallow waters, what are the advantages of using a skiff or flats boat in shallow waters, can larger boats be suitable for shallow waters as well, are there any specific brands or models known for their performance in shallow waters, what are the considerations when equipping a shallow-water boat for fishing, how does the hull material and construction affect a shallow-water boat’s performance, can i customize my shallow-water boat with additional features, what are some important safety considerations when operating a boat in shallow waters, how do i choose the right size and type of shallow-water boat for my needs, the best boat for shallow water.

The Caymas 281 HB Bay Boat is an excellent choice for those who value versatility in their shallow water excursions. This type of bay boat, similar to the Contender 26 Bay, is designed to handle both the shallows and rougher waters. With a hull design that minimizes draft while providing a smoother ride through choppy conditions, these boats are a popular choice for many shallow water anglers.

In the world of flats skiffs, the Dolphin 17 Super Skiff Pro and the Hewes 21 Redfisher stand out. These boats are constructed to navigate through mere inches of water, making them a top choice for those who want to venture into the skinniest of waters. Many of these skiffs, including the Maverick 18 HPX-V and the Mitzi Skiffs 17 Tournament, are also designed to be poled or pushed through the shallows. This feature, combined with the use of high-tech materials and lamination methods, ensures a lightweight boat that needs minimal static draft and thus can easily navigate shallow waters.

For those who prefer a simpler design, the Nitro Z19 Sport and the SeaArk 2672 MV are excellent options. These Jon boats, with their flat or nearly flat bottoms, are ideal for minimizing draft. Crafted primarily from aluminum, these boats are significantly lighter than most fiberglass models, allowing them to easily navigate shallow waters. Despite their simplicity, these boats are tough competitors when it comes to shallow water fishing.

The Pathfinder 2200 TRS is a bay boat that has gained popularity due to its ability to navigate shallow waters while providing a smoother ride in rougher conditions. Its design, which includes a bit of V to the hull, helps to balance the boat’s performance in both calm and choppy waters.

The boat requires only 19 inches (ca. 48 cm) of water

The boat requires only a hair over a foot of water, making it perfect for shallow water fishing. Despite its small size, measuring at 24 feet (7.32 m), the Sylvan L3 Party Fish is surprisingly seaworthy thanks to its triple-log pontoons. The hull is made of aluminum with a CE certification class (C)  and provides the necessary durability and stability. The V-shaped hull design further enhances its performance in shallow waters. This boat can accommodate [insert number] people, making it ideal for fishing trips with friends and family . It is equipped with a livewell, rodholders, fishing seats, and tackle stowage, ensuring a successful fishing experience.

Additionally, optional shallow water pole anchors are available. The engine of the Sylvan L3 Party Fish offers impressive power and torque, allowing for smooth navigation in shallow waters. Whether you’re fishing or partying, this boat has it all, including comfy sofas, cocktail tables, and a booming Jensen stereo system.

The boat requires only 16 inches (ca. 41 cm) of water.

The Caymas 281 HB Bay Boat is a versatile and powerful boat that is perfect for navigating shallow waters. Despite its large size, measuring 27’7” long and 9’4” wide, this boat only requires 16 inches (ca. 41 cm) of water to float. Made with a sturdy hull material, this boat is designed with a V-shaped hull that allows for smooth and efficient navigation. With its spacious layout, it can comfortably accommodate multiple people for a day of fishing.

Equipped with outriggers and an upper station, this boat is also suitable for offshore adventures. The twin engines provide a sense of security and reliability, making it ideal for long trips to blue water. The double-stepped hull design, created by designer Michael Peters, offers a 15-percent boost in speed and efficiency. With a powerful engine, this boat can reach speeds of over 70 mph (ca. 113 km/h), making it a top choice for fishing enthusiasts in shallow waters.

The Sportsman Masters 267OE boat requires roughly 15 inches (ca. 38 cm) of water

The Sportsman Masters 267OE is a versatile bay boat that is perfect for navigating shallow waters. Despite its 26’7″” length and 4,600 pounds (ca. 2 t) of displacement, the 267OE is surprisingly nimble and can handle tough conditions with ease. The V-shaped hull and flared bow provide a smooth and dry ride, ensuring your comfort on the water. With a spacious design, this boat can accommodate a large group of people, making it great for fishing trips with friends and family.

The boat requires only 15 inches of water.

With a length of 19 feet, the Nitro Z19 Sport is a relatively small boat, but don’t let its size fool you. It weighs approximately 2,150 lbs (975 kg), making it lightweight and easy to maneuver. The hull is made of durable and sturdy material, ensuring its longevity. The V-shaped hull design allows for smooth and stable rides, even in choppy waters. The boat can accommodate up to four people, making it ideal for a small group outing. Equipped with a Minn Kota electric trolling motor and a Lowrance fishfinder, this boat is a fisherman’s dream.

The powerful engine provides ample power and torque, allowing you to navigate through shallow waters effortlessly. Whether you’re participating in bass tournaments or enjoying a day of sight-casting for redfish, the Nitro Z19 Sport is versatile and reliable. The 2023 model comes with exciting upgrades, including a new onboard battery charger, a jump starter backup pack, and a 5″” digital touchscreen at the helm. Experience the thrill of shallow water fishing with the Nitro Z19 Sport.

The boat requires only 14 inches (ca. 36 cm) of water.

Despite its small size, the Hewes 21 Redfisher packs a punch with its 350-hp power rating. Built with Hewes’ VARIS vacuum-assisted resin infusion system, this boat is lightweight yet sturdy. Its V-shaped hull design ensures stability and maneuverability, allowing it to handle open bays with ease.

With a maximum passenger capacity of six people, it is a great choice for a day out on the water with friends or family. Equipped with top-of-the-line fishing equipment, the Hewes 21 Redfisher is a must-have for any avid angler. Whether you’re cruising at speeds in the mid- to upper-40s or reaching well north of 60-mph, this boat is sure to impress.

The boat requires only 13 inches (ca. 33 cm) of water .

The Scout 251 XSS is a versatile boat that is perfect for shallow waters. With a length of 24′ 10″”, it is a relatively small boat compared to others in its category. For small rivcrs, it’s big though! The boat weighs approximately 2,300 lbs (1,043 kg), making it lightweight and easy to maneuver. The hull is made of a fiberglass / grp hull with a CE certification class (C). The 251 XSS can navigate along the coastline and on rivers and canals. The V-shaped hull design allows for smooth sailing and stability in choppy waters.

The boat can accommodate up to 10 people, making it great for fishing trips with friends and family. It comes equipped with a large anchor locker, lockable rod storage boxes, a high-performance leaning post with rod holders, and trim tabs. The optional features include rear deck jump seat cushions, a port aerated bait well, and a porta potti. The Scout 251 XSS is powered by a 400 HP engine, providing ample power and torque for all your boating needs. Whether you’re fishing in backwater or slicing through offshore waves, this boat is designed to handle it all.

Speaking of fishing, the 267OE comes equipped with all the necessary fishing equipment, including a 67.5-gallon coffin box in the bow. Powered by a high-performance engine, this boat delivers impressive power and torque for an exhilarating experience. If you’re looking for a boat that combines shallow water accessibility with big water capabilities, the Sportsman Masters 267OE is the perfect choice.

The boat requires only 12 inches (ca. 30 cm) of water.

The Contender 26 Bay (Bay Boat) is a small yet powerful vessel designed for navigating shallow waters with ease. With a length overall (LOA) of 26 feet, it is compact enough to maneuver through tight spaces while still providing ample space for fishing and seating. The boat weighs approximately 4,500 pounds (ca. 2 t), making it lightweight and easy to transport. The hull is constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. Its V-shaped hull design enhances stability and performance, allowing for a smooth ride even in choppy conditions.

The Contender 26 Bay can accommodate a decent number of people, making it ideal for fishing trips with friends or family. It comes equipped with a range of fishing equipment, including a 70-gallon insulated fishbox, 40- and 12-gallon livewells, a 70-quart cooler, and rodholders strategically placed throughout the boat. Powered by a robust engine, the Contender 26 Bay delivers impressive power and torque, ensuring a thrilling and efficient boating experience.

The boat requires roughly 12 inches (ca. 30 cm) of water to swim.

The Lowe L1648 is a small and versatile boat that is perfect for navigating shallow waters. With an overall length of 15’8.5, it is compact and easy to maneuver. The boat weighs 1014 lbs (459.94 kg), making it lightweight and easy to transport. The hull is made of riveted aluminum, ensuring durability and longevity. The flat bottom and V-shaped hull design allow for smooth navigation in shallow waters. The boat can accommodate up to 4 passengers, making it ideal for small groups. It is equipped with full-width bench seats with a livewell/storage box, providing ample space for fishing equipment.

The boat is powered by a reliable Mercury outboard engine with a maximum capacity of 35 HP (26.10 kw), providing sufficient power and torque for various activities. Whether you’re hunting, fishing, or working, the Lowe L1648 is a reliable and versatile choice for shallow waters.

The boat requires only 11 inches (ca. 28 cm) of water to swim .

The SeaArk 2672 MV is a small boat, measuring 26 feet in length. It is lightweight, weighing approximately 2,850 lbs (1,293 kg), making it easy to maneuver in shallow waters. The hull is made of durable material, ensuring its longevity even in rough conditions. With its V-shaped hull design, the SeaArk 2672 MV provides stability and smooth navigation.

This boat can accommodate up to 7 people or a maximum weight of 1,400 lbs (635 kg). It is equipped with ample storage compartments and fishing equipment, making it perfect for fishing enthusiasts. The engine of the SeaArk 2672 MV offers impressive power and torque, allowing for efficient and enjoyable rides. Whether you’re exploring shallow waters or enjoying a day of fishing, the SeaArk 2672 MV is the ideal boat for your adventures.

The boat requires only 11 inches (ca. 28 cm) of water to stay afloat.

The Pathfinder 2200 TRS is a versatile boat that is perfect for shallow waters. With a length of 22 feet (ca. 7 m), it is a relatively small boat compared to others in its class but its large enough for shallow waters! The boat weighs approximately 2,850 lbs (1,293 kg), making it lightweight and easy to maneuver. The hull is made of high-quality fiberglass, ensuring durability and longevity. The V-shaped hull design allows for smooth navigation through shallow waters. The boat can accommodate up to 7 people or 1,400 lbs, making it ideal for family outings or fishing trips with friends.

It comes equipped with undergunwale rod storage and gunwale cup holders, providing convenience for anglers. The Pathfinder 2200 TRS is powered by a maximum of 250 horsepower engine, delivering impressive power and torque. Whether you’re fishing, skiing, or simply enjoying a sunset cruise, this boat offers unmatched safety, confidence, and style.

The boat requires only 10 inches (ca. 25 cm) of water to float.

The Hewes Redfisher 18 is a versatile and popular flats boat that is perfect for shallow waters. With a length of 18 feet 10 inches, it is a mid-sized skiff that offers a great balance of speed, range, and ride. The newly redesigned Redfisher 18 features a dedicated anchor locker, a flush-mounted console for electronics and a clever cushion setup. Built using vacuum infusion (VARIS), the hull is lighter, faster, and stronger. It can be powered by either a 115 or 150 horsepower engine, providing plenty of power and torque.

With a maximum capacity of 4 persons or 550 lbs, it can accommodate a small group of anglers. The boat also comes equipped with fishing features such as rod tubes for tip protection, undergunnel rod storage, and a console rod rack. Overall, the Hewes Redfisher 18 is a top choice for backcountry anglers and guides looking for a reliable and versatile boat for shallow waters.

The Dolphin 17′ Super Skiff Pro is the perfect boat for shallow waters, requiring only 10 inches (ca. 25 cm) of water.

This small yet powerful boat measures 5.41 meters in length and weighs approximately 1020 lbs (463 kg). Its fiberglass / grp hull is designed with a V-shaped hull, allowing for smooth navigation along the coastline, rivers, and canals. With accommodation for up to 5 people, it is ideal for a fishing trip with friends or family. The Dolphin 17′ Super Skiff Pro comes equipped with fishing equipment, making it a great choice for anglers. Powered by an outboard engine with up to 115 horsepower, this boat offers excellent power and torque for a thrilling ride. Experience the joy of shallow water boating with the Dolphin 17′ Super Skiff Pro.

The boat requires only 9 inches (ca. 23 cm) meters of water to float in shallow rivers.

The East Cape EVO is a small yet powerful boat, measuring 5.41 meters (17′ 9″”) in length. With a weight of approximately 900 lbs (408 kg), it is lightweight and easy to maneuver in shallow waters. The hull of the EVO is made of fiberglass/GRP, ensuring durability and stability. Its center console design and V-shaped hull allow for smooth navigation and excellent handling. Despite its compact size, the EVO can accommodate up to 4 people comfortably.

It is equipped with fishing amenities, making it an ideal choice for anglers. The boat is powered by an outboard engine with options ranging from 40 to 115 horsepower, providing ample power and torque for a thrilling ride. Whether you’re exploring the coastline or cruising along rivers and canals, the East Cape EVO is a top choice for shallow water adventures.

The boat requires roughly 9 inches (ca. 23 cm) of water to swim.

The Mitzi Skiffs 17 Tournament is a small boat that is perfect for navigating shallow waters. With a length of 17 feet (ca. 5 m), it is compact yet powerful. The boat weighs only 530 pounds (ca. 240 kg), making it easy to maneuver and transport. The hull is made of durable material, ensuring its longevity even in rough conditions. The V-shaped hull design allows for smooth sailing and stability. Despite its size, the Mitzi Skiffs 17 Tournament can accommodate two anglers and their fishing gear comfortably.

Speaking of fishing gear, this boat is equipped with fly rod tubes under the gunwales, capable of holding up to six 9.5′ fly rods. The engine provides ample power and torque, allowing for quick acceleration and efficient navigation. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a fly fishing enthusiast, the Mitzi Skiffs 17 Tournament is the perfect choice for shallow water adventures.

The boat requires only 9 inches (ca. 23 cm) of water, making it among the best 3 boats for shallow waters.

Despite its small size, the Maverick 18 HPX-V offers incredible stability. With a length of 18 feet, this skiff is compact and easy to maneuver. The boat weighs approximately 1,200 lbs (544 kg), making it lightweight and easy to transport. The hull is made of high-quality material, ensuring durability and longevity. The V-shaped hull design enhances stability and provides a smooth ride even in choppy waters. The boat can accommodate up to three people, making it ideal for small fishing trips. It comes equipped with various fishing equipment options, including rod holders, poling platforms, and Power Poles.

The Yamaha F150 outboard engine provides ample power and torque, allowing for top-end speeds of over 61 mph. With a cruise speed in the upper-40s, the boat offers excellent fuel efficiency, averaging over 5.6 mpg. The Maverick 18 HPX-V is highly customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your specific fishing needs. Whether you need an offset console mounting, cushions, or even tender lifting gear, this boat has you covered. Overall, the Maverick 18 HPX-V is a versatile and reliable choice for navigating shallow waters.

The Sterling TR7 requires only 6–8 inches (ca. 15-20 cm) of water to stay afloat.

With a length of 17 feet (ca. 5 m), the Sterling TR7 is a small boat that is easy to maneuver. Despite its size, it is surprisingly lightweight, weighing in at just 25ltz (lbs) or 11.34 kg. The hull is made of durable material, ensuring its longevity even in rough conditions. The V-shaped hull design provides stability and smooth handling. The boat can comfortably accommodate multiple people, making it ideal for fishing trips with friends or family.

It comes equipped with various fishing equipment, including an anchor storage box, front storage box, cast net box with an automatic pump, a 10-gallon console bait well, a deluxe console, a 25-gallon release well, and dry storage. The Sterling TR7 is powered by a 115 horsepower engine, providing ample power and torque for a thrilling ride on the water.

Additionally, it features a poling platform with two rod holders, adding convenience for anglers. Overall, the Sterling TR7 is a top choice for those seeking a boat that can easily navigate shallow waters without compromising on performance or fishing capabilities.

The boat requires only six inches of water to float, making it the best boat for shallow waters.

The Yellowfin 17 Skiff and 17 CE are both small boats, measuring 17 feet (ca. 5 m) in length. They are incredibly lightweight, weighing only 600 pounds (ca. 272 kg), thanks to their construction with vinyl ester resin infusion, Kevlar wrapping, and carbon fiber. The hull design features a V-shaped hull, which enhances stability and maneuverability in shallow waters. Despite its small size, the Yellowfin can accommodate multiple people, making it ideal for fishing trips with friends or family.

The boat comes equipped with various fishing equipment options, including poling platforms, livewells, Power Poles, and electric trolling motors. Powered by an engine with impressive power and torque, the Yellowfin 17 Skiff and 17 CE offer a thrilling and efficient ride in shallow waters.”

Jon boats have carved out a niche for themselves in the world of boating, particularly among those who prefer smaller, more stable vessels. These boats are particularly noted for their outstanding stability and impressive capacity, making them a favorite among those who frequent calm waters.

When it comes to the types of Jon boats, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all. While they all share the same basic architecture, there are variations that cater to specific needs and preferences of boat enthusiasts. However, the common denominator among all Jon boats is their flat-bottomed design, which offers exceptional stability on calm waters.

If you’re an angler, you’ll appreciate the capabilities of a Jon boat. These boats offer a fun and practical way to enjoy a fishing trip, whether you’re with family or out with a fishing buddy. They handle well in calm waters, making them a preferred choice for fishing expeditions.

But what really sets Jon boats apart is their performance in shallow waters. Unlike v-hull boats, Jon boats can navigate shallow waters with ease, making them a perfect choice for those who need to access shallow water bodies. The flat bottom design allows them to travel in areas where a v-hull boat would be unable to go. This makes Jon boats a fantastic choice for those who are looking for a reliable boat for shallow water.

Moreover, compared to v-bottom boats, Jon boats come with a friendlier price tag. This makes them an excellent choice for discerning boat shoppers who are looking for a cost-effective solution without compromising on performance and reliability.

In conclusion, Jon boats offer a combination of stability, capacity, and shallow water navigation that is hard to beat. Whether you’re looking for a boat for fishing or simply to enjoy the calm waters, a Jon boat is a fantastic choice.

The term “skiff” is widely used in the boating world, often serving as a blanket term for a variety of small boats. Their popularity is indisputable, with many boating enthusiasts appreciating the simplicity and ease that come with owning and operating these compact vessels. As a result, skiffs are frequently celebrated as the best boats for shallow waters.

Skiffs are characterized by their small size, open design, and simple structure. They are stripped down to the essentials, devoid of any complex electrical or plumbing systems that might complicate maintenance or operation. The core components of a skiff are a hull, an outboard engine, a few seats, and several fishing rod holders, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a straightforward and uncomplicated boating experience.

One of the key advantages of skiffs is their minimal maintenance requirements. Their simplicity means that there’s little to worry about beyond basic outboard motor upkeep and a good rinse at the end of the day. The lack of additional systems or accessories also contributes to their reliability. They are cost-effective to maintain and keep in prime condition, making them an economical choice for many.

Skiffs are also easy to handle due to their small size. They are manageable on the water and can be easily towed with a light-duty tow vehicle. Moreover, their affordability is a major plus point, making boat ownership accessible to a wider audience.

The simplicity of a skiff extends to the issues of storage and winterization, which are often problematic with larger vessels. With a skiff, storage is typically as straightforward and cost-free as parking the trailer in your driveway or garage. Similarly, winterizing a boat with no complex fuel and plumbing systems is a breeze.

Despite their many advantages, skiffs do have some potential drawbacks. The small size can limit the number of people and the amount of gear you can carry. They are not suited for large, open bodies of water with rough seas. The lack of creature comforts, such as enclosed head compartments or reclining loungers, is another factor to consider.

The open design of skiffs means exposure to the sun and weather, requiring careful planning of boating days. Families with small children may prefer to keep their trips short. Some skiffs offer the option of adding a small Bimini-style collapsible sunshade for basic protection.

Finally, the steering system of most skiffs can present a challenge to beginners. The absence of forward helms or dedicated steering stations found on larger vessels means many skiffs are controlled with tiller-steer outboards. While tiller steering is very responsive, the boat reacts inversely to hand movements, which can be confusing initially. However, with practice, operating a tiller-steered boat becomes second nature.

In conclusion, skiffs, with their small size, simplicity, and easy maintenance, are an excellent choice for shallow water boating. Despite a few potential drawbacks, their many advantages make them a popular choice among boating enthusiasts.

Flats boats are an essential tool for anglers who want to navigate the shallow flats, marshes, streams, bays, and rivers. These boats are specifically designed for shallow water fishing, providing excellent versatility and performance. They are the go-to choice for flats fishermen , light-tackle casters, and backcountry anglers.

There are several types of flats boats available, each with their unique features. Some of the top-rated flats boats include the Maverick 18 HPX-V, Hewes Redfisher 18, Sterling TR7, and the Chittum Islamorada 18 Legacy, among others. These boats stand out from the rest due to their minimal draft, powerful but balanced engines, and their ability to operate quietly, making them ideal for fishing in shallow waters.

When fishing with flats boats, it’s crucial to know that while many boats may claim to be designed for flat water, not all meet the standard. Some may sacrifice size, comfort, or safety to navigate shallower waters, or they may have outboard engines that are either too big or too small to perform effectively. Therefore, when choosing a flats boat, it’s essential to scrutinize its capabilities, comfort, performance, and safety features.

The main advantage of using flats boats in shallow water is their ability to access areas other boats can’t. They can navigate waters as shallow as a few inches deep. This is thanks to their minimal draft and stealthy propulsion methods, such as poling abilities or a bow-mounted electric trolling motor. Some flats boats, often referred to as flats skiffs, can even float in water that’s just ankle-deep.

However, it’s worth noting that while flats boats are excellent for shallow water fishing, they may not be as versatile in rougher, open waters. Their size and weight, which allow for greater range and rough-water abilities, can result in a deeper draft and tougher poling. This means they can take a beating or soak the crew on choppy days. Despite these limitations, flats boats remain unmatched for fishing in the shallowest of waters, making them a highly specialized choice for anglers.

Lastly, the market has seen a surge of new and improved flats boats, such as the 2023 Hewes 21 Redfisher and the 2023 Yellowfin 17 Skiff and 17 CE, among others. These boats feature advanced designs and technologies, making them even more efficient and comfortable for shallow water fishing.

When it comes to bay boats, you’ll find a wide variety of options on the market, each designed with unique features to enhance your fishing experience. One standout model, for instance, is the 2023 Caymas 281 HB Bay Boat. This boat is a significant platform among bay boats due to its large size of 27’7” long and 9’4” wide. It is considered a “hybrid” bay boat, suitable for both inshore and offshore use. While most other bay models are smaller, the 281 HB needs just 16 inches of water to float, making it ideal for shallow water fishing.

When fishing with bay boats, there are a few key aspects to keep in mind. For instance, the size of the boat can seem overwhelming in tight backcountry cuts and creeks. However, these boats are designed to handle big seas competently. If you opt for a boat like the Caymas 281 HB, which can be rigged with outriggers and an upper station, you can comfortably venture far offshore in search of pelagics. This model is also one of the few shallow water boats equipped with twin engines, providing the reassurance of having redundant powerplants on the transom.

Bay boats offer significant advantages when it comes to shallow water fishing. They are designed to float in minimal water, making them ideal for light-tackle casting, flats fishing, and backcountry angling. The hull design of these boats, like the double-stepped SVVT created by designer Michael Peters for the Caymas 281 HB, can provide speed and efficiency boosts of around 15-percent. This makes them not only a practical choice for shallow water fishing but also a high-performance fishing machine capable of reaching speeds of over 70 mph.

In conclusion, bay boats are a versatile choice for any angler, offering the capability to navigate both inshore and offshore waters with ease. With their impressive shallow water performance and high-speed capabilities, they are a top choice for those looking for the best boat for shallow water fishing in 2023.

Operating a jet ski in shallow water is fraught with risks. The crux of the matter is that a jet ski’s pump requires a minimum of 3 feet of water depth to function properly. This is due to the pump’s design, which operates by sucking in water and expelling it, creating propulsion. The pump is constantly in operation when the jet ski’s engine is running, even when the jet ski is stationary.

The danger of running a jet ski in shallow water lies in the pump’s potential to draw in objects from the water’s bottom. Whether it’s sand, seaweed, branches, rocks, or litter, these objects can easily be sucked into the pump. The result? A myriad of malfunctions ranging from clogs in the pump or cooling systems to damage to the impeller or wear ring. In some cases, it could even lead to the engine overheating.

So, what should you do if you inadvertently find yourself in shallow water on your jet ski? The first step is to be alert to signs of shallow water. This could be changes in the water color or the presence of visible objects like rocks or vegetation. If you suspect you’re in shallow water, immediately turn off the engine to prevent the pump from sucking in debris.

Once the engine is off, it’s time to manually move the jet ski out of the shallow area. This may require some effort, but it’s a small price to pay compared to the potential damage that could be inflicted on your jet ski. After you’ve moved to a safer area with deeper water, it’s advisable to clean the pump before resuming your ride. This will ensure any debris that may have been sucked in is removed, preventing any potential blockages or damage.

Remember, operating a jet ski in shallow water is not worth the risks. Stick to the recommended water depth of 3 feet and above to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.

A Tunnel-Hull Jon Boat is a unique type of flat-bottom boat specifically designed to operate in shallow waters. This boat’s design is distinguished by a tunnel-hull that displaces water from the boat’s bottom through a trough in the center and rear of the boat, propelling it upward towards the boat’s motor when on a plane. This design allows the boat’s motor to be jacked above the bottom of the boat, thus allowing the hull to encounter obstructions first, protecting the motor’s foot. This setup offers the advantage of seamless operation in water that is only a few inches deep, even when planing.

Tunnel-Hull Jon Boats are particularly favored for smaller shallow rivers. They perform at their best when sufficiently powered and evenly weighted. For instance, a 20-inch Tunnel-Hull Jon Boat with a 55 HP motor can smoothly navigate through 6 inches of water if the weight in the boat is evenly distributed. However, its performance may decrease slightly with a 40 HP motor.

It’s important to evenly distribute the weight of equipment, people, gas, batteries, and other items on the boat for optimal performance. Additionally, mounting the motor on a jack plate can significantly enhance efficiency by holding the motor further back in shallow waters, thus reducing potential damage to the skeg. Flotation pods or sponsons can also improve a Tunnel-Hull Jon Boat’s performance by evening out the boat’s buoyancy, which is compromised when the tunnel is created.

The design of the tunnel is crucial to the boat’s overall performance. If the tunnel is too short, it may not prime well, leading to excessive air in the water. Conversely, if the tunnel is too long, air may enter from under the boat’s front while on a plane. Propeller tunnels are typically 5 to 6 inches deep, while jet tunnels are often 3 inches deep. It’s important to note that some tunnel hulls are not designed for jets and only run a propeller motor.

Despite their benefits, Tunnel-Hull Jon Boats do have some drawbacks. They can be challenging to back up, and in some cases, reverse may not work. This issue is likely due to the tunnel design and the heavy cupping of the tunnel propeller. Tunnel-Hull Jon Boats also tend to have a slightly reduced top speed due to the tunnel acting as a vacuum in the boat’s center.

This creates a low-pressure area that water rushes to fill, causing a disturbance that slows the boat down. However, this speed loss can be mitigated to some extent by cupped propellers. Another issue is poor steering control or skipping, especially in rough water. However, this can be resolved by dropping the motor further into the water.

In conclusion, Tunnel-Hull Jon Boats can be a worthy investment for those who frequently navigate waters less than a foot deep. Those planning to build a DIY Tunnel-Hull Jon Boat should understand the dynamics of constructing an effective tunnel hull. Despite their drawbacks, with proper setup and understanding, these boats can offer a great boating experience in shallow waters.

What to know when running a boat in shallow rivers and water

Key Takeaway: running a boat in shallow rivers and waters requires utmost attention and care. Being aware of color changes, using a chartplotter and a pushpole and wearing sunglasses can help you avoid potential disasters and enjoy a safe, smooth boating experience.

Navigating through shallow rivers and water bodies can be quite challenging, even for the most seasoned boaters. Here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and smooth journey.

Firstly, it’s crucial to understand that color changes often signal different water depths. Typically, deeper waters appear darker, while sandy shoals exhibit a lighter hue. However, dark spots can also be misleading as they may be caused by grass flats or weed beds. Therefore, it’s advisable to avoid visible color changes altogether when you’re certain there’s ample water beneath your boat’s keel.

Secondly, using a chartplotter to track your course is a smart strategy. It’s recommended to always keep the chartplotter track active and follow your own breadcrumb trail back to the dock. This is especially useful if you’ve created a safe route to your destination, as you can simply retrace your steps. However, bear in mind that this method is only reliable if the tide has been rising or static since your journey began. Changes in tides can alter the safety of your route, especially if the tide is lower than when you set out.

Thirdly, wearing appropriate sunglasses can greatly enhance your vision when running in shallow rivers and waters. While dark lenses are ideal for bright, sunny days, they can be overwhelming in low light or hazy conditions. Yellow lenses, on the other hand, can improve contrast in low light and help you spot color changes in the water.

Fourthly, it’s paramount to avoid running over unfamiliar shallow water. Even if it means adding a few extra minutes to your trip, it’s better to take the long way home. Instead of racing across a flat, simply go around it and head out to the channel markers.

Lastly, if you find yourself in doubt, it’s advisable to use a pushpole or trolling motor to reach deeper water. Rather than risking damage to your boat, it’s safer to shut down, tilt the engine up, and pole or walk your boat to deeper water. If the tides are too low, anchor up and wait them out. This might take longer, but it’s certainly faster than causing damage to your lower unit.

Fishing enthusiasts who relish the thrill of casting their lines in shallow water flats or backcountry waterways understand the importance of having the right vessel. Shallow water fishing boats such as flats boats, bay boats, and skiffs are commonly preferred for this type of angling due to their design and functionality. These boats are specifically designed to float in shallow water, providing anglers with an edge when navigating through water bodies with depth constraints.

Flats fishermen, light-tackle casters, and backcountry anglers typically choose boats that can effortlessly navigate through shallow waters while providing stability, speed, and comfort. These boats often have a shallow draft and are designed to cause little disturbance in the water, making them perfect for angling in shallow waters. They can get you to the most secluded fishing spots, which are otherwise inaccessible with bigger, deeper draft boats.

One of the top picks in 2023 for shallow water fishing is the Hewes 21 Redfisher. Highly appreciated for its ability to glide effortlessly through shallow waters, it is the best boat for shallow river fishing. Another noteworthy contender is the Maverick 18 HPX-V, a skiff that speaks volumes of speed, stability, and shallow water accessibility. The Mitzi Skiffs 17 Tournament, a minimalist skiff, is another fantastic option boasting of a lightweight design that’s perfect for solo anglers.

The Yellowfin 17 Skiff and 17 CE make a strong case for shallow water fishing too. With their advanced hull designs, these boats can hover on the water surface, making them ideal for maneuvering over shallow, grassy flats. Bay boats like the Caymas 281 HB Bay Boat, Contender 26 Bay, and Pathfinder 2200 TRS, are highly sought after as they offer a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and shallow water accessibility.

The Nitro Z19 Sport is another flats boat that is garnering attention. It is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, capable of navigating through shallow waters with ease. Lastly, the Sylvan L3 Party Fish offers a unique combination of fishing and pontoon features, accommodating both hardcore anglers and leisure enthusiasts.

In conclusion, choosing the best shallow water fishing boat depends on specific needs and preferences. While some prefer the simplicity and accessibility of skiffs, others may go for the comfort and versatility offered by bay boats or flats boats. Whatever the choice may be, these boats promise an unparalleled shallow water fishing experience.

The key to finding the best boat for shallow water is to first understand the kind of vessel that suits your needs. Whether you’re looking for a Jon Boat, a Skiff, a Flats Boat, or a Bay Boat, the options are extensive and varied.

Jon boats, for instance, are ideal for calm, shallow waters due to their flat hull. With their simple design and lightweight structure, these boats are perfect for those who want a no-fuss, practical boating experience. They can often go in the shallowest of all waters. Skiffs, on the other hand, are a versatile choice, offering a minimalist design with maximum functionality. They are ideal for those who prefer a small, open boat with a simple outboard engine and the ability to handle both calm and rough waters.

Flats boats are another excellent choice for shallow water fishing. These boats are designed to navigate through shallow waters with ease, making them perfect for inshore fishing. With their sleek design and lightweight construction, flats boats are a joy to maneuver and offer an exciting boating experience. Bay boats, with their robust design and increased capacity, are great for those who want a larger vessel that can handle both shallow and deep waters.

However, boat choice is just one part of the equation. Successful shallow water fishing also involves understanding the signs of changing water depth, using a chartplotter for navigation, wearing sunglasses for glare reduction and knowing how to react when running over unfamiliar shallow waters. It is also crucial to acknowledge that not all watercraft are suitable for shallow water use, such as Jet Skis, which require at least 3 feet of water to function properly.

Shallow water fishing offers unique benefits, including the ability to access areas that deeper draft vessels can’t reach. This often results in a more tranquil fishing experience and the opportunity to catch species that typically inhabit shallow water environments.

To wrap up, the amount of water a boat needs below its keel – the ship’s backbone that runs along the bottom – depends on its type and design. Generally, the smaller and lighter the boat, the less water it needs underneath. However, always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for accurate information.

In conclusion, choosing the best boat for shallow waters involves a careful consideration of your specific needs, understanding the different types of boats available, and having knowledge of safe and effective shallow water navigation. By taking the time to research and understand these aspects, you can ensure a satisfying and successful shallow water boating experience.

Best Boat For Shallow Water: FAQ

Skiffs, Jon Boats and flats boats are among the best choices for shallow waters. They are designed with minimal drafts and specialized hull shapes that allow them to navigate in ankle-deep waters effectively. Tunnel Jon Boats can go in waters with less than 6 feet (1.83 m) of depth.

Skiffs and flats boats offer excellent maneuverability and the ability to access hard-to-reach fishing spots in shallow waters. Their shallow drafts allow them to glide over shallows without getting stuck, making them ideal for areas where deeper-draft boats can’t venture. They are also extremely lightweight (often less than 600 pounds (ca. 272 kg)) and require minimal static draft.

Some larger boats, like bay boats, can be designed with shallow-water capabilities, offering a balance between open water performance and shallow water access. However, smaller skiffs and flats boats are generally more maneuverable, lighter and better suited for extremely shallow conditions. The damage is also easier to repair when you hit the ground with a small, lightweight boat.

Some popular names include Hewes, Maverick, Mitzi Skiffs, Dolphin Super Skiff Pro, and Yellowfin Skiffs. Researching specific models from these brands can help you find the best boat for fishing in shallow rivers and waters.

Accessories like a poling platform, push pole, shallow-water anchor (e.g., Power Pole), and trolling motor are common additions to shallow-water fishing boats. These accessories enhance your ability to navigate, anchor, and control the boat while fishing in shallow areas.

Hull materials like fiberglass, carbon fiber, and Kevlar are commonly used for their lightweight and durable properties. A well-constructed hull with the right materials decreases a boat’s required static draft and enhances buoyancy in shallow waters. Fiber enforced materials are also extremely durable.

Yes, many boat manufacturers offer customization options for adding features like live wells, casting decks, rod holders, and storage compartments to tailor the boat to your fishing style and preferences.

Always be aware of changing water depth and potential obstacles. Pay attention to tide changes and weather conditions, as these can affect water levels. Color changes often signal different water depths. Using a chartplotter to track your course is a smart strategy. Adiitionaly wearing sunglasses can greatly enhance your vision. Use caution when navigating unfamiliar areas and ensure you have proper safety equipment on board, including life jackets , navigation lights, and communication devices.

Consider your fishing preferences, the types of waters you’ll navigate, the number of passengers you plan to accommodate, and your budget. Research different models, consult with boating experts, and even consider test rides to find the boat that aligns best with your shallow-water fishing goals.

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Located on Florida’s west coast in Bradenton, Florida, Beavertail Skiffs’ dedicated crew of seasoned boat craftsmen and craftswomen are building the finest, most capable, and well-designed technical poling skiffs on the planet. Every skiff is custom crafted to the exact specifications of its owner and built with no compromises to deliver the absolute best in performance, quality, and durability. Known for offering exceptional customer support, being a part of the Beavertail Skiffs family means being treated as one of our own – before, during, and more importantly, after the sale.

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Best Flats Boats for Fishing

• By SWS Staff
• Updated: May 23, 2024

If you intend to stalk bonefish, redfish, permit, snook, striped bass, tarpon or any other inshore game fish on the flats, salt marshes, or other shallow water areas, flats boats and flats skiffs — designed precisely for that style of saltwater angling — offer the greatest advantages to successfully sneak up on your favorite target species, including the shallow draft necessary to venture onto skinny water.

Naturally most of us start our boat search with trying to find the best flats boat for the money, but maybe your budget is a bit higher than most and you can look beyond the category of an affordable flats boat. If that’s the case, you’ll find plenty of those options here as well. Smaller flats skiffs are included too.

To help you find the one that best suits your specific needs and budget, the Salt Water Sportsman staff has compiled and updated a guide to the best flats boats for sale today, comprising timeless classics and the latest designs from numerous manufacturers. Scroll down to check out our list of top 16- to 19-foot options (in no particular order) for serious shallow water fishing.

– ALWAYS USE YOUR ENGINE CUT-OFF LANYARD – Make sure your Engine Cut-Off Switch lanyard is attached to your person whenever you’re underway. They’re now required on all open boats under 26 feet. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

The Complete List of Flats Boats

Maverick 17 hpx-v ii, yellowfin 17ce, hewes redfisher 18, east cape evo, floyd skiff 10 weight, dolphin 17 superskiff pro, action craft 1820 ace flatsmaster, bonefish bohemian 17, dragonfly emerger, maverick mirage 18 hpx-v, beavertail 17 strike, ankona advent, islamorada morada 18, hewes redfisher 16, east cape fury, spyder fx17 flicker, hell’s bay eldora, action craft 1720 gen3 flyfisher, sterling 180, mitzi 17 tournament, maverick 17 hpx-s, hell’s bay professional, chittum islamorada 18 legacy, action craft 19 ace flatsmaster, bay craft bone skiff 162, yellowfin 17 cc, east cape vantage, dolphin 18 back country pro, beavertail 18 air, dragonfly grand slam 17, hell’s bay biscayne, sterling tr7, spyder fx19 vapor, mako 18 lts, skull island 16, bluewater 180 pro, dragonfly classic 17, hell’s bay marquesa, action craft 1600 flatspro.

With its surprising open-water running capability, and quiet and precise poling proficiency, the Maverick 17 HPX-V II has been the bench mark for top-notch technical poling skiffs since its introduction. This skiff is designed for anglers who want top performance in the toughest and most technically challenging poling situations. This next generation of the 17 HPX-V now offers more easy-to-access dry storage, plus a lighter hull, better balanced to match with smaller outboards like a Yamaha F70.

maverickboats.com

Yellowfin has a new and improved version of its 17 Skiff, the 17 CE (Carbon Elite), features the same simple, but functional and ergonomically designed deck layout as the original 17 Skiff, but with a new hull design and cutting-edge construction techniques and materials. It incorporates a deeper deadrise and sharper entry for long runs across choppy water, new molded-in spray rails, a single step in the boat’s running surface for greater speed and efficiency.

yellowfin.com

This versatile, mid-sized skiff has been a prime choice of many backcountry anglers for decades. Recently redesigned, the Redfisher 18 now has a dedicated anchor locker, a new console that accommodates flush-mounted electronic displays up to 12 inches, and a clever cushion setup. The boat is now built using vacuum infusion (VARIS) for an even lighter, faster and stronger hull that is well balanced with either a 115 or 150 hp outboard. An optional backrest/step integrated into the poling tower provide added comfort and safety.

Xplor Boatworks’ newest skiff, the X7, combines a functional design topside and a smooth- and dry-running hull with performance pad and 7-degree deadrise at the transom. The X7 features numerous storage and livewell options, and boasts the newest design in integrated spray rails that channel water down and away from the boat while underway.

xplorboatworks.com

According to the folks at East Cape Skiffs, this flats boat was built to dominate South Florida’s flats fishing scene, much of which centers around the wide-open oceanside shallows of Biscayne Bay and the Keys, where stiff winds and a moderate chop are commonplace. Built to take sizeable waves while still providing a soft, comfortable ride, with its massive built-in spray rails keeping spray to an absolute minimum, the EVO is also fast, extremely maneuverable, and it floats and poles shallow enough to chase tailers pushing up the skinniest of waters. Dry storage is extensive, and the massive round livewell, conveniently located in the middle of the aft deck, enables anglers to carry a substantial supply of baitfish for live-baiting mangrove shorelines or inlets and passes. As with all East Cape Skiff models, every EVO is a custom build, and the layout may include anything from a side console to a tower with elevated helm, to the classic center console with bench-style seating or a removable leaning post.

eastcapeskiffs.com

A collaboration between industry legend Chris Morejohn and Brian Floyd, the 10 Weight from Floyd Skiff Company reflects an original technical poling skiff design that will travers open water with ease and comfort, draft just 7 inches, and pole silently when stalking prey on the flats. It features a center console with seat, 30-gallon livewell, hydraulic steering, electric trim tabs, under-gunwale rod racks, and more.

floydskiff.com

The hull, inner liner and deck are all made completely of composite materials and fused together for maximum strength and durability. The hull shape is a modified version of the high-performance deep-V from the 16-foot Super Skiff Pro, making the 17 a quick and nimble technical poling skiff that slices through a 2-foot chop and still poles in 8 inches of water. The oversize forward deck makes a perfect casting platform, while the in-floor cast-net and dry-storage compartments accommodate enough gear for 4 anglers. Fore- and aft-facing under-gunwale rod racks hold up to 10 rods. And the ergonomically designed helm seat behind the center console folds down to extend the aft deck for additional casting room. In addition, the 17 Superskiff Pro comes loaded with features like hydraulic steering, trim tabs, gas shocks on all hatches, a 32-gallon oval livewell with high-speed pick up and push-pole holders that increase comfort and make the boat a truly versatile fishing platform.

dolphinboats.com

Featuring a high-performance, modified deep-V hull design, the midsize Action Craft 1820 ACE FlatsMaster promises a smooth, dry ride. Built with state-of-the-art construction techniques, and boasting Action Craft’s Pocket Drive, it navigates the shallows — powered by either outboard or push pole — extremely well. Anglers looking for a full-featured, high-quality, shallow-draft boat for coastal fishing will appreciate the 1820′s self-draining cockpit, wide gunwales, and long list of standard features, as well as enough room for the family to spend a day on the water.

actioncraft.com

Built out of fiberglass, Kevlar and carbon fiber, with integrated structural foam coring and three-piece construction bonded together, the Bohemian from Bonefish Boatworks is light and strong. It sports a stepped V-pad hull that allows the skiff to plane quicker, run faster and ride comfortably without the need for trim tabs, while its submerged reverse chines eliminate unwanted spray. Features include a giant forward storage compartment, plus two large ones on the rear deck, 6 under-gunwale rod tubes, and innovative in-floor storage in the cockpit to stash wet items.

bonefishboats.com

The Emerger from Dragonfly Boatworks is designed to be a light skiff for one or two anglers that provides a smooth, comfortable ride, plus access to the skinniest water. Available in either tiller or center-console versions, this 16-foot flats boat features a unique bottom configuration that lets anglers venture easily and stealthily into the whisper zone. It draws just 5 inches, hence the name Emerger.

dragonflyboats.net

Maverick’s top selling skiff, the Mirage 18 HPX-V is a stable, easy-to-pole skiff that tracks well, is quick out of the hole, and responsive and nimble on the turns, and remains pretty dry even in windy weather. The popular model includes walk-around gunwales with rod racks underneath, a taller console to house sizable electronics, vertical rod racks, and a removable cooler that doubles as a forward console seat. Twin compartments provide ample aft storage and bookend a 30-gallon livewell with dual in-flow system and raw-water, high-speed pickup.

Beavertail considers this the Swiss Army Knife of its boat lineup. The builder claims it can take the rough oceanside conditions often encountered when targeting tarpon in Florida during the annual migration, and also run and pole easily on shallow, backcountry flats to stalk tailing redfish and bonefish. Stealth is a major virtue of the Strike, which Beavertail built to enable anglers to pole silently into position and cast to wary game fish with two to three anglers aboard. This third generation Beavertail was designed to deliver tons of storage and a truly dry ride, thanks to the huge flared bow inspired by Carolina sport fishing yachts. With a unique semi-tunnel hull, and rated for up to 90hp, the builder promises this boat will jump up and race across the skinniest flats without leaving you high-and-dry. Rod racks under both gunwales, trim tabs, jack plate with 4-inch setback, custom poling platform, and an 8-gallon crustacean well with clear lid to keep tabs on the bait are among the boat’s many features.

beavertailskiffs.com

Built combining carbon fiber, Kevlar and vinylester resin, the lightweight Ankona Advent draws just 6 inches with two anglers and gear on board. Engineered with a variable-radius transom to enhance shallow-water performance, the hull incorporates sharp spray rails, inset tabs, and a stern pad for added dead rise and a more comfortable ride in a chop. The large, front casting deck with a molded hatch includes ample dry storage, while the specious aft deck includes two 10-gallon wells with angled hatches allows for easy access while in or out of the boat.

ankonaboats.com

– INVEST IN SUCCESS – A boating course is a great way to gain confidence and boat-handling skills. A little practice now will make it look easy when everyone is watching. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

With Carbon Innegra and resin-infusion construction, the Morada 18 poling skiff from Islamorada Boatworks offers a lightweight hull designed with 12 degrees of transom deadrise for a soft ride, and a side-hull feature to knock down spray. The outer chine is soft and sits below the waterline to avoid hull slap. The trim tabs are completely recessed to reduce line snags, and a crowned transom makes spinning the boat while poling easier and quieter.

islamoradaboatworks.com

The completely redesigned, vacuum infused (VARIS) Redfisher 16 features Hewes’ famous ride. With outboards from 70 to 115 hp, this boat can cover lots of ground comfortably and safely, even in bigger water. The Redfisher 16 floats in 11 inches of water, can be effortlessly poled or fished with a trolling motor, and it easily fits in the garage. Its wide beam and walkaround gunwales offer an exceptionally stable fishing platform.

Much like the Vantage, East Cape’s largest skiff, the Fury sports a considerable bow flare and large spray rails incorporated into the hull to knock down any spray and keep anglers dry. The flare, which gradually lessens toward midship, enables a wide forward deck with sizeable storage despite the skiff’s small footprint. It also floats very shallow for an 18-footer. And lightweight and narrow at the waterline, the Fury glides and spins readily with little effort when poling, and it requires only a 60 hp motor to run in the mid 30s. A large livewell, rod tubes below the gunwales and additional dry storage in back are among the boat’s key features. As with all other East Cape models, all Fury skiffs are custom built, and a variety of configurations, with different consoles, seating, rod racks, poling and casting platforms, and even towers are available.

Like Spyder’s larger FX model, the 17-foot Flicker is built with biaxial fiberglass, premium resins, pressure-foamed stringer construction, Baltek foam coring and Nida-Core decks for superb strength without added weight. That lighter weight enables the skiff to achieve top performance with a smaller motor, it makes poling easy and rewards flats anglers with a 7-inch draft. The boat features in-deck storage fore and aft, including twin 70-quart outboard compartments and a livewell with high-speed pick up between them. Standard equipment includes under-gunwale racks for 4 rods, vertical racks for 4 rods on the console (2 on each side), 4-switch panel and trolling motor harness. The Redfish and Pro Flats packages offer a number of upgrades, including finished fiberglass hatches, hydraulic steering, hydraulic jack plate, trim tabs, LED cockpit lighting, a poling platform and more.

spyder-boats.com

The Eldora by Hell’s Bay Boatworks boats offers a durable build with a simple interior layout, spacious front deck, and wide-open cockpit. The patented hull design — derived from over 20 years of on-the-water experience — and advanced composites and Carbon Innegra construction were combined to afford flats anglers extremely shallow draft as well as whisper-quiet, easy-to-pole performance.

hellsbayboatworks.com

The 1720 FlyFisher offers flexibility and versatility for the light-tackle and fly fishing specialist. A radical, racy chine line, the signature of Action Craft’s exclusive Qui-Dry Hull, reduces fish-spooking hull slap when poling in the shallows, and ensures a remarkably dry ride when running in a heavy chop. A narrow console affords plenty of cockpit room, and wide, 13-inch gunwales provide for easy walk-around and loads of rod storage underneath. A bench-style seat with flip-down back rest is standard, and includes dry storage underneath for two trolling motor batteries. The livewell has recessed fittings to ensure bait remains alive and frisky.

Sterling’s 180 flats boat is built with an exclusive HPIF process that provides high-pressure foam core, double-hull construction for outstanding strength and rigidity. The 180 is designed to cruise shallow water at speed, yet is silent when poling. Ultra-wide beam offers exceptional stability. Standard features include a self-bailing cockpit, multiple dry storage lockers, specially-made rod holders, angled to protect reels, and more.

americanmarinesports.com

The top model in Mitzi’s family of skiffs, the 17 Tournament is built around the brand’s successful modified V-hull with a transom pocket and 11 degrees of deadrise at the transom, resulting in a zippy and agile shallow-drafting skiff that is easy pole. It features wide walk-around gunwales, three dry storage compartments (one fore and two aft), rod racks under both gunwales, vertical rack (for three rods) in the console, release well in the aft deck, console baitwell, and poling platform.

mitziskiffs.com

The 17 HPX-S is touted by Maverick Boats as a skiff that floats in less than 6 inches of water, drives like a sports car while keeping its occupants dry and comfortable, and poles with precision and stealth. Its one-of-a-kind VARIS constructed Kevlar hull was designed by one of the most experienced teams in the business, with the latest in CAD-designed naval architecture, and advanced aeronautic technologies, to blend a smooth-running surface with poling performance for fishing in super-shallow water.

Built for maximum versatility in a wide range of conditions and fishing situations, the Professional from Hell’s Bay Boatworks combines shallow draft, a dry and comfortable ride, and cutting-edge design. Developed for guides, tournament professionals, and hardcore enthusiasts, this Carbon Innegra-constructed skiff is one of the leading choices for anglers looking for no-holds-barred, performance in a shallow-water fishing machine.

Stealth and shallow draft are the cornerstones of this full size skiff, built on a patented hull that weighs a mere 400 pounds before rigging and incorporates massive built-in spray rails for a super dry ride, a staggered split chine below the waterline for silent poling, and a radius transom (with no sponsons) to prevent rebound waves that may spook fish. The 18 Legacy is offered in two hull forms: the S with 12-degree deadrise and the SS with 2-degree deadrise, both loaded with features like a “floating” center console with 360-degree toe kick and forward seat with a large insulated ice chest, hydraulic steering, trim tabs, two large aft dry storage lockers, aft anchor/dry storage compartment, 14-rod racks under the gunnels with rod tubes fore and aft, 30-gallon baitwell/release well, carbon-fiber poling platform with with SeaDek, LED lighting in all compartments, wells, console and under gunnels, custom stainless steel and aluminum trailer with walk boards, and more.

chittumskiffs.com

The bow deck of the Action Craft’s 19 ACE FlatsMaster features a built-in, removable cooler and storage compartment, plus a round livewell and an anchor locker. The aft deck includes a large, oval livewell and two large storage compartments, one of which can be plumbed to serve as a release well. A full-width dry storage compartment is located below the cushioned bench seat, and features a backrest that folds down flat to extend the aft casting deck.

Designed for anglers who want ample storage and fishing room in an easy-store, shallow-water boat, Bay Craft’s Bone Skiff measures only 18.6 feet in length on a trailer with a swing-away tongue to fit easily in most garages. The boat’s 6-foot, 7.9-inch beam makes it one of the most stable fishing platforms in the industry, and its features include diamond nonskid throughout, all-composite construction, under-gunwale rod storage, self-bailing cockpit, and more.

baycraftboats.com

The workmanship and attention to detail that go into Yellowfin’s offshore center consoles and bay boats is also evident in the 17 CC, the company’s technical poling skiff model. Weighing just 600 pounds, the boat is light and responsive on the pole and it tracks well. Aggressive pebble-style nonskid finish provides good traction even in wet conditions, and the integrated spray rails keep anglers dry during open-water crossings, so this is the kind of technical poling skiff that makes fishing on rough days easier. The boat features a low-profile side console, a cavernous 35-gallon livewell and under-gunwale storage for up to six fully rigged 9-foot fly rods. The cockpit drain system, a unique design feature, allows the boat to self-bail while underway and remain bone-dry at rest with the simple quick turn of the seacocks.

– SHOW THEM HOW MUCH YOU CARE – Nothing says ‘I love you’ like making sure the kids’ life jackets are snugged up and properly buckled. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

At just over 19 feet, the Vantage has the length to reach the next wave without stuffing the bow when running in choppy, open water, which the V and the deadrise make quite comfortable. The bow flare and large spray rails smartly incorporated in the hull’s design allow the builder to tout the boat as the driest skiff in existence. Despite the 79-inch beam, relatively narrow for a 19-footer, the hull’s footprint is even smaller, helping the skiff attain high speeds, remain nimble and negotiate rough water with ease. When poling, the Vantage exhibits a smaller boat attitude. It tracks very well and spins readily without much effort. On top, the fore and aft casting decks are massive. A cavernous compartment in the front and two generous ones in the rear afford ample storage, and the deep gutters and thick gaskets ensure the contents stay dry. A huge livewell in the aft deck easily accommodates a pair of tournament winning fish or more than enough live bait to chum with. As is the case with other premium skiffs, every Vantage is custom built in a variety of configurations, with different consoles, seating, rod racks, poling and casting platforms, and even towers available, along with a wealth of options, like a hydraulic jack plate, shallow-water anchoring system and more.

Tarpon and backcountry guides from Jupiter to Key West have been fishing aboard the 18 Back Country Pro for over twenty years and brag about its stability in open bays and inlets, the way the deep-V hull cuts through a chop, and the 10-inches of water it only requires to float. With a maximum horsepower rating of 150, this boat tops at around 55 mph, so it’s easy to reach hot spots deep in the backcountry in time for the morning bite, and pick up the family to water ski or dive the patch reefs in the afternoon. Extensive standard features include waterproof switches with circuit breakers, hydraulic steering, trim tabs, cockpit lighting under gunnels and inside livewell and aft storage compartment, in-floor cast net compartment, large dry storage compartments fore and aft, 2 oval livewells (39 gallons combined) with high-speed pickup, storage racks with tubes for 10 rods under the gunnels, poling Platform, recessed push-pole holders, and more.

The Beavertail Air was designed to handle the big water of open bays, yet still access the shallow flats where trophy fish live. Built with tournament anglers at heart, the Air sports 360 degrees of fishability, loads of dry storage, and offers an optional 25-gallon release well. Constructed with the most advanced coring & carbon kevlar materials, the hull is infused to create a solid, yet lightweight structure able to take on the toughest of conditions and still float skinny. And with a full stepped hull and a maximum power rating of 115 horses, Beavertail says the 18-foot Air will get you to the fishing grounds and back fast, dry and in comfort. Key standard features include a large forward casting deck with anchor locker, forward large dry-storage compartment, 30-gallon insulated livewell, two large aft storage compartments which can be plumbed as release wells, trim tabs, jack plate, center console with insulated cooler under forward jump seat, hydraulic steering, under-gunnel rod racks for rods up to 10 feet long, and custom poling platform.

The smaller sibling to Egret’s signature 189 model is still a sizable platform for inshore anglers to navigate in comfort and fish shallow flats unencumbered. Like the larger 189, this boat reaches considerable speeds and takes on big, open water with gusto. Thanks to the 167′s design, materials and construction, every one that leaves the factory is as light and strong as possible. The hull was design to provide a soft, dry ride, and still float and pole surprisingly skinny. Dry storage at the bow and the rear is both generous and easy to access. Rod lockers along both gunwales include racks that cradle rods pointing fore and aft and prevent tangles. A Ritchie compass, an aluminum poling platform with welded rod holders, trim tabs, hydraulic steering, push-pole holders, cockpit lighting and engine gauges are part of the many standard features.

egretboats.com

The combination of classic lines and innovative features really sets the Grand Slam 17 apart. The design incorporates many of yesteryear’s eye-pleasing lines in a skiff built with the latest technology to offer comfort and versatility, performing at the level professional guides and serious flats anglers demand. Whether poling in skinny water or storming across an open bay to the next fishing spot, this Dragonfly is sure to please. The skiff is finely tuned and balanced for easy and quiet poling. There’s ample storage, and a recessed shelf keeps batteries secure and out of the way while affording complete access to the front locker and the trolling motor connections. The Sportfishing Console, a popular option, includes 6 integrated upright rod holders and a slide-out drawer to keep essentials at arms length but out of the elements. Recessed grab handles, oversize cockpit drains plumbed directly to the bilge, a Simpson bracket that makes servicing the bilge pump a cinch, recessed push-pole holders that flip up and retract in unison, and a 22-gallon oval livewell with clear lid and LED underwater lights are among the many other smart appointments available.

Designed to provide a comfortable ride while crossing rough water oceanside or across open bays and still pole over shallow flats with ease, the Biscayne may be Hell Bay’s most versatile flats skiff. Its Kevlar hull is designed with a small footprint and a sharp entry to cut through a chop, with spray rails incorporated to ensure the ride is always dry, even in open water. Vacuum-bagged Core-Cell construction throughout make the skiff strong and tough while keeping the weight down. The flat transom allows the poler to spin the skiff quickly and sharply, while a large hatch up front and a pair of smaller shotgun-style hatches in the rear provide access to generous dry storage compartments. All hatches include a slam-latch design, which locks down the hatch as you close it for extra security and peace of mind. Under-gunwale rod racks accommodate seven fly rods, and the top surface of the standard poling platform comes covered in SeaDek for added comfort.

This unique skiff incorporates a non-slap hull design that makes it a stealthy fishing platform, with a tunnel that runs the entire length of the boat, allowing the motor to be set higher and run at high speed in ankle-deep water. The tunnel also acts as a keel during high-speed turns and helps the boat track straight while poling. Like all Sterling models, the TR7 is built using a proprietary, three-piece construction process whereby the outer hull and inner liner are bonded together, injected with foam flotation under high pressure and then chemically bonded together with the cap to form one solid piece. The boat is made entirely of carbon fiber and Kevlar, delivering a hull weight of just over 500 pounds. Standard features include the poling platform, trim tabs, hydraulic jack plate, a 10-gallon baitwell and 25-gallon release well, removable backrest, LED courtesy lights and a custom Ameritrail aluminum trailer.

With a length of 19 feet and a narrow beam of 6 feet, 11 inches, the FX19 Vapor requires less power to achieve top performance. The long planing pad and transom pocket increase its shallow-water capability. The boat is responsive on the run and takes tight turns as if it were on rails. It also glides and spins easily with the push pole, with hull slap negligible at worst. There’s a 100-quart insulated fish box in the forward deck to ice down the day’s catch and three 70-quart storage compartments, two of them located aft, bookending a release well with high-speed pickup. The Vapor also comes pre-wired for a trolling motor, with a molded pad on the bow to accommodate a quick-release mount, and rod racks — carpeted and recessed — under the gunwales. Finished fiberglass hatches, upgraded vertical console racks for 6 rods, cockpit and baitwell lighting, and a removable folding backrest are included with the Redfish or Pro Flats packages. The latter also includes a poling platform with hinged legs so it lies forward when servicing the motor.

The 18 LTS is a clean, simple and well-executed boat that excels at many things. The foredeck is accented with a nice toe rail and incorporates a large casting platform with a sizeable dry-storage compartment underneath. There is a place for an optional trolling motor on the foredeck and a large anchor locker forward with a double-sided hatch and a gasket to keep water out. There are three vertical rod holders on each side of the console, and the cushioned forward console seat houses an 18-gallon aerated livewell. The business side of the console has a panel for flush-mounting electronics, a side-mount binnacle control to save dash space, and a gauge cluster that’s easily read in front of the helm. The console seat is a 72-quart cushioned cooler with a flip-flop backrest, so you can sit facing aft when drifting and lean back. Along with a long list of standard features, every 18 LTS comes with a trailer, and Mako also offers a wealth of options to rig out the boat for any situation.

makoboats.com

Made from 100 percent vinylester resin and a combination of aerospace-grade closed-cell foam, woven fiberglass and Kevlar cloth, and the builder’s proprietary laminate schedule, the Skull Island 16 achieve an impressive strength-to-weight ration. The sharp forward entry with the wide flare of large Carolina-style game boats and integrated spray rails results in smooth, dry runs. A unique transom feature allows the engine to be mounted higher for increased shallow-water performance, while the lightweight, non-slap hull design makes poling truly effortless. The boat spins on a dime, and its 60-inch beam enables anglers to explore narrow creeks inaccessible to larger skiffs. The Skull Island offers spacious, double-gasketed storage compartments fore and aft, a large self-draining cockpit, under-gunwale racks for six 9-foot rods and a variety of cockpit configurations, including center-console and tiller setups. A powder-coated 12-gallon aluminum fuel tank and trim tabs are also standard, with an extensive list of options available.

skullislandskiffs.com

There’s no doubt this is a premier flats boat. The builder’s quality construction, superb fit and finish and great attention to detail are evident. The hull design provides a soft, dry ride, and surprisingly shallow draft. It’s also capable of considerable speeds and safe, comfortable runs in big, open water. Dry storage fore and aft is extensive and easily accessible. Rod lockers along both gunwales are impressive, designed to prevent tangles while safely cradling rods pointing in both directions. The tinned wiring and electrical connections are clean, well-organized and finished with heat shrink to prevent corrosion. Standard features include a Ritchie compass, hydraulic steering, trim tabs, push-pole holders and a poling platform. An extensive list of options include a casting platform, console vertical rod racks, flush-mount rod holders on the gunwales, on-board battery charger, bow-mount trolling motor and more.

A semi-custom boat designed to bridge the gap between a flats boat and a bay boat . Aided by lifting pads amidships, a unique design feature in the boat’s hull, the Bluewater 180 offers top performance and excellent range. Generous dry storage compartments are fully finished, and deep gutters keep water from seeping in. Walk-around gunnels are complemented with rod racks underneath, and the 30-gallon livewell with rounded corners comes plumbed to circulate water from the bottom up to ensure good flow of raw water and keep live bait nice and frisky. And a wealth of additional fishing features, both standard and optional, meet the demands of even the most hardcore shallow water angler.

bluewatermarine.com

The Dragonfly’s sensuous curves evoke memories of classic yacht design, like the mahogany sportfishers of yesteryear. Only this flats skiff is constructed of tough, modern materials in a perfect blend of tradition and the latest technology. The long list of standard features includes safe-tee steering, Lenco trim tabs, plumbed livewell with quick change pump, poling platform, recessed push-pole holders and hand holds, and rod storage below the gunwales.

The Marquesa from Hell’s Bay Boatworks is designed to float in only 7 inches, and comfortably handle bigger water and more anglers, with a running pad that increases the hull’s running speed and improves tracking and spinning while poling. The front deck is designed free of snags, with plenty of room for a casting platform and substantial dry storage underneath. In the rear, a large livewell fills the needs of live-bait and release tournament anglers, and twin storage compartments hide under hatches that allow easy access from every direction.

The 1600 FlatsPro is yet another model from Action Craft to rank among today’s best flats skiffs. While designed for shallow water use, this 16-footer is US Coast Guard-rated to carry up to five people—more than many larger flats boat models, with storage capacity also substantial. Stability is a key feature of top flats boats and, thanks to its 14-degree transom deadrise and 7-foot beam, the 1600 FlatsPro is super stable. Action Craft also offers multiple seating options to increase the comfort level onboard, including a bench-style helm seat with flip-up backrest that folds flats with the aft deck for fishing, and a raised console with leaning-post seating for better visibility when cruising or scouting for fish. Under-gunwale rod racks and spacious fore and aft casting decks, both boasting a livewell topping 20 gallons, are among the many fishing amenities.

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20 Best Small Sailboats for the Weekender

• By Mark Pillsbury
• Updated: May 24, 2024

In order to go cruising, most of us require a sailboat with a head, a galley, and bunks. The boat, likely a 30-footer and more often a 40-footer, will have electronics for navigation and entertainment, refrigeration if the trip is longer than a coastal hop, an engine for light wind, and, depending on our appetites for food and fun, perhaps a genset to power our toys and appliances.

To go sailing , however, all we really need is a hull, mast, rudder, and sail. To experience the pure joy of sheeting in and scooting off across a lake, bay, or even the open ocean, there’s nothing better than a small sailboat – we’re talking sailboats under 25 feet. You can literally reach out and touch the water as it flows past. You instantly feel every puff of breeze and sense every change in trim.

Some of the boats in this list are new designs, others are time-tested models from small sailboat manufacturers, but every one is easy to rig, simple to sail, and looks like a whole lot of fun either for a solo outing on a breezy afternoon or to keep family and friends entertained throughout your entire sailing season. This list is made up of all types of sailboats , and if you’re looking for a list of some of the best small sailboats for beginners, you’ll find exactly that here.

Any one of these popular boats could be labeled as a trailerable sailboat, daysailer, or even a weekender sailboat. And while most would be labeled as a one or two person sailboat, some could comfortably fit three or even four people.

– CHECK THE WEATHER – The weather changes all the time. Always check the forecast and prepare for the worst case. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

Marblehead 22 Daysailer

If you have an eye for elegant lines and your heart goes pitter-patter over just the right amount of overhang beneath a counter transom, the Marblehead 22 daysailer, designed by Doug Zurn and built by Samoset Boatworks in Boothbay, Maine, will definitely raise your pulse. Traditional-looking above the waterline and modern beneath, the cold-molded hull sports a deep bulb keel and a Hall Spars carbon-fiber mast with a wishbone rig and square-top main. The 11-foot-9-inch cockpit can seat a crowd, and a small cuddy forward will let you stow your friends’ gear for the day. samosetboatworks.com

Catalina 22 Sport

Many a harbor plays host to an active fleet of Catalina 22s, one of the most popular small sailboats over the years, given its basic amenities and retractable keel, which allows it to be easily trailered. Recently, the company introduced the Catalina 22 Sport, an updated design that can compete with the older 22s. The boat features a retractable lead keel; a cabin that can sleep four, with a forward hatch for ventilation; and a fractional rig with a mainsail and a roller-furling jib. Lifelines, a swim ladder, and an engine are options, as are cloth cushions; vinyl cushions are standard. The large cockpit will seat a crowd or let a mom-and-pop crew stretch out and enjoy their sail. It’s clear why the Catalina 22 is one of the best sailboats under 25 feet. catalinayachts.com

With its large, open-transom cockpit and sloop rig, the Hunter 22 makes a comfortable daysailer for family and friends. But with its cuddy cabin, twin bunks, optional electrical system, opening screened ports, and portable toilet, a parent and child or a couple could comfortably slip away for an overnight or weekend. Add in the optional performance package, which includes an asymmetric spinnaker, a pole, and a mainsheet traveler, and you could be off to the races. The boat features a laminated fiberglass hull and deck, molded-in nonskid, and a hydraulic lifting centerboard. Mount a small outboard on the stern bracket, and you’re set to go. marlow-hunter.com

Not sure whether you want to race, cruise or just go out for an afternoon sail? Since 1958, sailors have been having a ball aboard the Uffa Fox/George O’Day-designed Daysailer. Fox, who in the 1950s was on the cutting edge of planning-dinghy design, collaborated with Fall River, Massachusetts boatbuilder O’Day Corp. to build the 16-foot Daysailer, a boat that features a slippery hull and a small cuddy cabin that covers the boat roughly from the mast forward. Thousands of Daysailers were built by various builders, and they can be found used for quite affordable prices. There are active racing fleets around the US, and new Daysailers are still in production today, built by Cape Cod Ship Building. capecodshipbuilding.com

BayRaider from Swallow Boats

Easy to rig and trailer, the BayRaider from England’s Swallow Yachts is a relative newcomer to the small-boat market in the United States. Nearly all of its 19 feet 9 inches is open cockpit, though a spray hood can be added to keep the forward sections dry. The BayRaider is ketch-rigged with a gunter-style mainmast. The topmast and mizzen are both carbon-fiber, which is an option for the mainmast as well. The BayRaider can be sailed with a dry hull in lighter conditions or with 300 pounds of water ballast to increase its stability. With the centerboard and hinged rudder raised, the boat can maneuver in even the thinnest water.

$28,900, (904) 234-8779, swallowyachts.com

Big fun can come in small packages, especially if your vessel of choice happens to be the 12 ½-foot Beetle Cat. Designed by John Beetle and first built in 1921, the wooden shallow draft sailboat is still in production today in Wareham, Massachusetts at the Beetle Boat Shop. With a draft of just 2 feet, the boat is well-suited for shallow bays, but equally at home in open coastal waters. The single gaff-rigged sail provides plenty of power in light air and can be quickly reefed down to handle a blow. In a word, sailing a Beetle Cat is fun. beetlecat.com

– LEARN THE NAVIGATION RULES – Know the “Rules of the Road” that govern all boat traffic. Be courteous and never assume other boaters can see you. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

West Wight Potter P 19

With berths for four and a workable galley featuring a cooler, a sink, and a stove, West Wight Potter has packed a lot into its 19-foot-long P 19. First launched in 1971, this is a line of boats that’s attracted a true following among trailer-sailors. The P 19′s fully retractable keel means that you can pull up just about anywhere and go exploring. Closed-cell foam fore and aft makes the boat unsinkable, and thanks to its hard chine, the boat is reportedly quite stable under way. westwightpotter.com

NorseBoat 17.5

Designed for rowing and sailing (a motor mount is optional), the Canadian-built NorseBoat 17.5—one of which was spotted by a CW editor making its way through the Northwest Passage with a two-man crew—features an open cockpit, a carbon-fiber mast, and a curved-gaff rig, with an optional furling headsail set on a sprit. The lapstrake hull is fiberglass; the interior is ply and epoxy. The boat comes standard with two rowing stations and one set of 9-foot oars. The boat is designed with positive flotation and offers good load-carrying capacity, which you could put to use if you added the available canvas work and camping tent. NorseBoats offers a smaller sibling, the 12.5, as well; both are available in kit form.

$19,000, (902) 659-2790, norseboat.com

Montgomery 17

Billed as a trailerable pocket cruiser, the Montgomery 17 is a stout-looking sloop designed by Lyle Hess and built out of fiberglass in Ontario, California, by Montgomery Boats. With a keel and centerboard, the boat draws just under 2 feet with the board up and can be easily beached when you’re gunkholing. In the cuddy cabin you’ll find sitting headroom, a pair of bunks, a portable toilet, optional shore and DC power, and an impressive amount of storage space. The deck-stepped mast can be easily raised using a four-part tackle. The builder reports taking his own boat on trips across the Golfo de California and on visits to California’s coastal islands. Montgomery makes 15-foot and 23-foot models, as well. If you’re in search of a small sailboat with a cabin, the Montgomery 17 has to be on your wish list.

With long overhangs and shiny brightwork, the CW Hood 32 is on the larger end of the daysailer spectrum. Designers Chris Hood and Ben Stoddard made a conscious decision to forego a cabin and head in favor of an open cockpit big enough to bring 4 or 5 friends or family out for an afternoon on the water. The CW Hood 32 is sleek and graceful through the water and quick enough to do some racing, but keeps things simple with a self-tacking jib and controls that can be lead back to a single-handed skipper. A top-furling asymmetrical, electric sail drive and Torqeedo outboard are all optional. The CW Hood 32 makes for a great small family sailboat.  cwhoodyachts.com

Sun Cat from Com-Pac

Shallow U.S. East Coast bays and rock-strewn coasts have long been graced by cat boats, whose large, gaff-rigged mainsails proved simple and powerful both on the wind and, better yet, when reaching and running. The 17-foot-4-inch Sun Cat, built by Com-Pac Yachts, updates the classic wooden cat with its fiberglass hull and deck and the easy-to-step Mastender Rigging System, which incorporates a hinged tabernacle to make stepping the mast a one-person job. If you want a personal sailboat ideal for solo sailing, the Sun Can is a great choice. Belowdecks, the twin 6-foot-5-inch berths and many other features and amenities make this cat a willing weekender.

$19,800, (727) 443-4408, com-pacyachts.com

Catalina 16.5

The Catalina 16.5 sits right in the middle of Catalina Yachts’ line of small sailboats, which range from the 12.5 to the 22 Capri and Sport, and it comes in both an easy-to-trailer centerboard model and a shoal-draft fixed-keel configuration. With the fiberglass board up, the 17-foot-2-inch boat draws just 5 inches of water; with the board down, the 4-foot-5-inch draft suggests good windward performance. Hull and deck are hand-laminated fiberglass. The roomy cockpit is self-bailing, and the bow harbors a good-sized storage area with a waterproof hatch. catalinayachts.com

No roundup of best small sailboats (trailerable and fun too) would be complete without a mention of the venerable Hobie 16, which made its debut in Southern California way back in 1969. The company has introduced many other multihulls since, but more than 100,000 of the 16s have been launched, a remarkable figure. The Hobie’s asymmetric fiberglass-and-foam hulls eliminate the need for daggerboards, and with its kick-up rudders, the 16 can be sailed right up to the beach. Its large trampoline offers lots of space to move about or a good place to plant one’s feet when hanging off the double trapezes with a hull flying. The boat comes with a main and a jib; a spinnaker, douse kit, trailer, and beach dolly are optional features. hobiecat.com

Novice sailors or old salts looking for simplicity could both enjoy sailing the Hunter 15. With a fiberglass hull and deck and foam flotation, the boat is sturdily built. The ample freeboard and wide beam provide stability under way, and the heavy-duty rubrail and kick-up rudder mean that you won’t have to worry when the dock looms or the going grows shallow. Both the 15 and its slightly larger 18-foot sibling come standard with roller-furling jibs.

$6,900/$9,500 (boat-show prices for the 15 and 18 includes trailers), (386) 462-3077, marlow-hunter.com

– CHECK THE FIT – Follow these guidelines to make sure your life jacket looks good, stays comfortable and works when you need it. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

Super Snark

Under various owners, the Snark brand of sailboats, now built by Meyers Boat Co., has been around since the early 1970s. The Super Snark, at 11 feet, is a simple, easily car-topped daysailer that’s fit out with a lateen rig and sail. Billed as unsinkable, the five boats in the company’s line are built with E.P.S. foam, with the external hull and deck vacuum-formed to the core using an A.B.S. polymer. The Super Snark weighs in at 50 pounds, and with a payload capacity of 310 pounds, the boat can carry two.

$970, (800) 247-6275, meyersboat.com

Norseboat 21.5

Built in Canada, the NorseBoat 21.5 is a rugged looking craft that comes in a couple of configurations: one with an open cockpit and small doghouse, and another with a smaller cockpit and cabin that houses a double berth for two adults and optional quarter berths for the kids. Both carry NorseBoat’s distinctive looking carbon fiber gaff-rigged mast with main and jib (a sprit-set drifter is optional), and come with a ballasted stub keel and centerboard. Because of its lightweight design, the boat can be rowed and is easily trailered.

$36,000 (starting), 902-659-2790, norseboat.com

Flying Scot

Talk about time-tested, the 19-foot Flying Scot has been in production since 1957 and remains a popular design today. Sloop rigged, with a conventional spinnaker for downwind work, the boat is an easily sailed family boat as well as a competitive racer, with over 130 racing fleets across the U.S. Its roomy cockpit can seat six to eight, though the boat is often sailed by a pair or solo. Hull and deck are a fiberglass and balsa core sandwich. With the centerboard up, the boat draws only eight inches. Though intended to be a daysailer, owners have rigged boom tents and berths for overnight trips, and one adventurous Scot sailor cruised his along inland waterways from Philadelphia to New Orleans.

Known primarily for its line of racing dinghys, RS Sailing also builds the 16-foot, 4-inch Venture, which it describes as a cruising and training dinghy. The Venture features a large, self-draining cockpit that will accommodate a family or pack of kids. A furling jib and mainsail with slab reefing come standard with the boat; a gennaker and trapeze kit are options, as is an outboard motor mount and transom swim ladder. The deck and hull are laid up in a fiberglass and Coremat sandwich. The Venture’s designed to be both a good performer under sail, but also stable, making it a good boat for those learning the sport.

$14,900, 203-259-7808, rssailing.com

Topper makes a range of mono- and multihull rotomolded boats, but the model that caught one editor’s eye at Strictly Sail Chicago was the Topaz Taz. At 9 feet, 8 inches LOA and weighing in at 88 pounds, the Taz is not going to take the whole crowd out for the day. But, with the optional mainsail and jib package (main alone is for a single child), the Taz can carry two or three kids or an adult and one child, and would make a fun escape pod when tied behind the big boat and towed to some scenic harbor. The hull features Topper’s Trilam construction, a plastic and foam sandwich that creates a boat that’s stiff, light, and durable, and shouldn’t mind being dragged up on the beach when it’s time for a break.

$2,900 (includes main and jib), 410-286-1960, topazsailboats.com

WindRider WRTango

WRTango, a fast, sturdy, 10-foot trimaran that’s easy to sail, is the newest portable craft from WindRider International. It joins a line that includes the WR16 and WR17 trimarans. The Tango features forward-facing seating, foot-pedal steering, and a low center of gravity that mimics the sensation of sitting in a kayak. It weighs 125 pounds (including the outriggers and carbon-fiber mast), is extremely stable, and has single-sheet sail control. The six-inch draft and kick-up rudder make it great for beaching, while the hull and outriggers are made of rotomolded polyethylene, so it can withstand running into docks and being dragged over rocks.

$3,000, 612-338-2170, windrider.com

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Best Small Sailboats for Beginners

There are a number of classic trainers used by yacht club youth programs as well as techie new designs. Without mentioning specific models and brands, it’s difficult to outline which small boats are best but here are things to look for in good teaching boats.

Some of the best small sailboats for beginners include:

• Boats with tillers steering
• Boats with no winches
• Sailing dinghies
• Small sloops
• Small catamarans
• Rotomolded boats
• Trailerable sailboats

Explore All Sailboat Types

Boats with Tiller Steering

Steering by tiller (rather than a wheel) can make a difference when learning. Tillers are directly connected to the rudder that manages the boat’s direction. Tillers provide quick feedback about the strength and direction of the wind as well as the boat’s turning agility at various speeds.

Boats with No Winches

Boats that require no winches to manage the sheets and halyards are best for youngsters and new sailors. These boats usually don’t experience the same forces on the sails and rigging as larger boats, which can be a handful when the wind starts to blow. Winches are usually replaced with cam or jam cleats, which are easy to use.

Sailing Dinghies

Sailing dinghies are usually rigged with one mast and one sail and offer kids and new sailors simplicity so it’s easy to learn the ropes. Less overwhelming than boats with two sails, dinghies are light and responsive. They also have a shallow draft due to side or centerboards so they can be sailed just about anywhere. In some cases (whether from a wind gust or sudden crew weight shift) sailing dinghies can capsize so students should wear lifejackets and know how to swim. Sailing dinghies are usually sailed by one or two people.

Small Sloops

Small sloops with a mast that carries head and mainsails are the next step so students learn how sails work together. Headsails can be hanked on or attached to a small roller furler. These boats may have some or no winches, which also makes them easier to maintain. These boats can usually be sailed with one to four people.

Some sloops can scale up, providing a more challenging experience for sailors as they develop skills. Certain models can carry spinnakers and larger headsails to teach sail combinations and new sail trim techniques. Others offer the ability to hike out (shift crew weight well outboard to balance the boat against the wind pressure in the sails). This kind of sailing is more advanced.

Small Catamarans

Small catamarans provide extra stability for those who may be nervous about capsizing or aren’t fond of heeling (tipping while sailing). With two hulls providing a wide and stable base, catamarans area ideal for beginners, which may be why they’re often used by resorts as their beach sailing tourist boats. Rigged with one or two sails, small cats are tiller steered and usually have a trampoline that the students sit on and sail.

Rotomolded Boats

Small rotomolded boats are very forgiving due to their durable construction. Unlike fiberglass or wooden boats, rotomolded (a type of plastic construction technique) trainers can bounce off docks or other boats and cause or sustain little damage. Dinghies and catamarans can both be made via rotomolding.

Trailerable Sailboats

Finally, small sailboats that can be trailered to different locations add variety and that makes learning fun. Students can learn to sail in different wind and water conditions and enjoy their boats differently on vacation or with new friends.

Learning to sail involves all the senses and requires a level head and lots of practice and although it can be learned in many ways, the best way is to start with a boat that’s small, simple, safe and durable.

Read Next: Small Boats: What Are My Options?

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MICRO-X: ULTRA LOW DRAFT ALUMINUM BOAT

Reach the shallowest waters in a full-featured all-aluminum boat..

Micro-X Series

Our ultra low draft Micro-X aluminum boat is ideal for shallow water swamps, bayous, creeks, rivers, lakes and bays. Available in 15 to 18-foot lengths, and  45-inch and 48-inch bottom width configurations, with tiller steering or stick steering. Reach the shallowest waters in a full-featured aluminum low draft boat, built for the most dedicated anglers.

CONFIGURATIONS:

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Average Sailboat Draft

Sailboat draft varies between different sizes and vessel types. Also, hull type plays a large part in draft depth.

The average draft of a typical production coastal cruising sailboat is about 3 to 4 feet. Some vessels, such as fin keel racing boats, can have much deeper drafts regardless of overall length. The deepest draft sailboats are full-keel blue water cruisers, while the shallowest draft vessels are centerboard island hoppers.

In this article, we'll go over the average draft of sailboats by type and usage. We'll also cover why some boats have deeper drafts than others and what depths are best for applications such as bluewater sailing, racing, and beaching.

We sourced the information in this article from sailboat design guides, experienced sailors, and our own analysis of boat construction and sales trends.

Table of contents

‍ What is Sailboat Draft?

Draft is a term we use to describe how deep below the water a sailboat hull (and everything attached to it) goes. This information is useful because it gives us an idea of how the vessel handles and what conditions it can sail in.

For example, a 40-foot sailboat with a draft of 5 feet could make an excellent blue water passagemaker, but its draft is far too deep for beaching on an island or exploring shallow coral reefs.

Average Draft of Small Sailboats

Some small sailboats, known as island-hoppers or 'gunkholers,' are designed to have flat bottoms and. a retractable centerboard to reduce draft.

These vessels, which are designed to be beached and to sail in shallow water, have a board-down draft of a foot or two and a board-up draft of 10 inches or less. Smaller sailboats, such as dinghies, have an even shallower draft of Just a few inches.

Average draft of Coastal Cruising Sailboats

Coastal cruising sailboats are small, but they're a bit heftier than centerboard island hoppers. They range in size from about 22 to 30 feet in length, and they have an average draft of three feet.

Draft depth is reduced on some vessels that utilize swing keels, which are like centerboards that pivot up into a shallow trunk when the captain needs to reduce draft.

Average Draft of an Offshore Sailboat

Offshore sailboats are known for having a deep draft, and many of these boats keep a significant amount of ballast as low as possible to increase stability. The draft of offshore sailboats ranges from about 3.5 feet on the low end and 6 feet or more on the largest vessels.

Owners of offshore sailboats with deep drafts have to be very careful when navigating harbors and channels, as underwater obstacles or the seafloor can easily cause tremendous damage to a deep keel.

What is Shoal Draft?

A shoal draft sailboat is a vessel with a shallow draft, usually under 3 feet. Examples of shoal draft vessels include the Catalina 22 (with a swing keel) and the West Wight Potter 19. Shoal draft sailboats are usually flat-bottomed (like sharpie sailboats) or, more recently, built with V-bottom hulls.

Shoal draft vessels are great for rivers, lakes, and island hopping but usually aren't comfortable in heavy seas.

Does Draft Affect Stability?

Draft depth can affect stability, but it doesn't always. Instead, the things that affect stability often affect the draft of a sailboat. For example, a heavy ballast keel is long and deep, which helps a sailboat remain stable in rough weather.

A shallower boat with additional internal ballast will sit lower in the water, thus increasing its draft and stability. However, adding an extra two feet to a centerboard likely won't help increase stability, though it will dramatically increase your draft.

Draft Vs. Drag

Many people believe that deeper draft sailboats have more issues with drag than shallow draft boats. This is sometimes the case, but it doesn't tell the full story. Modern deep-draft sailboats often have shallow, rounded hulls and a long fin keel.

The fin keel, which is responsible for the vast majority of the draft depth, is narrow and designed to produce very little drag. These boats are fast and nimble, which makes them popular with modern sailors.

Older vessels with traditional full keels do experience more drag, though they enjoy enhanced stability and superior motion comfort.

Are Deep Draft Sailboats Better?

Deep draft sailboats are usually better for offshore sailing, and some modern deep draft vessels are great for racing. However, the majority of production racing sailboats have flush hulls and a somewhat modest draft, and some utilize multiple blade keels.

For an everyday cruising boat, a deep draft is usually better unless you frequently encounter reefs, sandbars, or other shallow water hazards.

Can You Reduce the Draft of a Sailboat?

Generally speaking, you can't dramatically reduce the draft of a fixed-keel sailboat. If your boat has a centerboard or a swing keel, you can dramatically reduce the draft by retracting it (just don't forget the rudder).

If you're looking to shave a couple of inches off the draft of your sailboat, try emptying the fresh and wastewater tanks and shedding unnecessary items. Don't try to remove any original ballast, as it could completely throw off the stability of your boat.

How to Beach a Deep-Draft Sailboat

Beaching is a fun way to berth your boat. Some sailboats are easy to beach (if they're designed for it), while others require great care. It's possible to beach a deep-draft sailboat, though it requires careful tide planning, terrain exploration, and some extra equipment.

A popular method is to use specialized poles. When you find a good beach, position your boat at high tide and deploy the poles, They'll settle and keep your boat upright when the tide goes out. This method isn't safe for all vessels, so intentionally grounding a deep-draft boat is generally best to avoid altogether,

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Daniel Wade

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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• Safety & Seamanship

The Ups and Downs of Shoal Draft Boats

Shallow-water cruisers can take you places deeper draft vessels won’t dare to go, but there’s a catch..

As a longtime multihull sailor I’m often told that it must be wonderful to anchor wherever I want and tuck into the smallest of coves. Yes, there is some truth to that. An owner of a Phillip Bolger-designed classic leeboard Dovekie once bragged to me that his boat would float “on heavy dew.” But in the next breath he related a hellish experience cutting across a shallow that extended nearly one mile off a lee shore. A reasonable 2-foot chop in deeper water became 3-foot breaking waves. So let’s break it down.

This is the big myth, so let’s bust it right now.

You better enjoy bottom painting. Every time the bow shifts, you sand off a few grams of $200-per-gallon paint. Even beach cats use wheels because repeated hauling will grind the gelcoat right through in season or two. I’ve reglassed bottoms because of this.

Rudders are at high risk. Backing off is the obvious problem, but getting knocked sideways by a wake is worse. I’ve seen rudder cassettes split open.

Beware of ferries. If a ferry comes along, the wake can leave you high and dry. It hasn’t happened to me, but I’ve watched people spend days trying to refloat a boat.

You still need to set an anchor. If the wind shifts, the tide rises, or a wave knocks you sideways, the boat can sail away. Been there, done that. So anchor out within wading distance if you can. Dry bags are terrific help if you are planning a beach camping trip.

Beaching is for lighter boats only. It is only acceptable if you can lift and carry to the high waterline. Snuggling the bow up to a sandbar and reclining on the sand with a cold drink is romantic in advertisements, but if there is enough wind to sail, it is a bad, awful idea. Only boats that can be hauled securely up the beach should be beached.

Allow for tide. Sure, you can anchor in just a few feet, but if the tide drops you will either be stranded or pounding up and down on the bottom. And what if there are a few scattered rocks or tree trunks? Just like deep draft boats, you need to allow for tide and a safety factor.

Waves and wakes are worse in the shallows. Up a small creek you can anchor in 3 feet, but in an open roadstead or even a harbor with long fetch or heavy traffic, 6 to 8 feet is a healthy minimum, just based on wave action.

Gotta have a snubber. Chain catenary depends on the amount of chain deployed. In deep water—20 feet or more—even relatively short scope puts 120 feet of chain in the water. The same boat anchored in 4 feet would deploy as little as 35 feet of chain, and the waves will hit like a hammer.

Even worse is the onset of hobby horsing; short steep waves will get the bow moving vertically, and with no catenary, that’s a good formula for popping out an anchor. I’ve often anchored in shallows with only 70 feet of chain out, but even in good shelter I attached a 20-foot snubber at the 50-foot mark. Any less is asking for snatching when a wake hits. I once measured a 2,200-pound jolt on my chain rode when a power boat wake rocked the boat just wrong.

 If you are planning to spend the night on the boat, close to the beach might not be the most pleasant spot to anchor. During summer, bugs are horrible within 200 feet of shore, even more so if you plan to cook. If I pull up close to shore to allow easy wading, I’ll still move out a good distance for the night.

Avoid lee shores. The most dangerous case is a rocky shore, certain to break the boat into small pieces and put the crew at risk. But a shoal-draft sailor can be tempted to sail in the shallows off a beach or over a sandbar.

In just 3-5 feet of water, even moderate chop turns steep and nasty. If the board touches bottom in the troughs, things quickly get dicey. If you leave the board down, the boat stops and the board takes a beating. If you lift the board to get moving and prevent damage, you make leeway, can’t beat off, and soon touch bottom again. The motor will bounce up and down, ventilating, risking damage, and providing little push. It may not look life threatening (it can be), but it can get expensive even in just 10 knots.

Waves will push you around. If the keel isn’t into solid water under the wave, there is a tendency for waves to push you to leeward. Low aspect keels aren’t just hydrodynamically inefficient, they are also handicapped by working in moving surface layers. For shallow keels to work, they must be sailed fast, like a beach cat. Slow them down and they just don’t point in waves.

Kick-up rudders

Once the rudder is up, you’re done sailing. If it kicks back, the leverage is horrible. If you can raise the rudder, it still won’t have enough bite. I learned to sail on beach cats, and lacking deep keels, they rely on deep, efficient rudders for a good portion of their lateral resistance.

Centerboards and daggerboards are wonderfully efficient to windward, with low drag and high lift if sailed in the pocket. A centerboard-equipped F-24 trimaran can sail circles around a mini-keel PDQ 32 catamaran, but it also draws 5 feet versus 3.5 feet. The F-24 draft can be reduced to 18 inches by lifting the centerboard, but even while motoring the steering becomes mushy.

If the board is left down and allowed bump, it will wear, and there is risk of hinge and structural damage. Damage to dagger boards can be sudden and catastrophic if the boat is moving more than 5 knots. You can lift the boards halfway, but the result is a compromise.

Larger “Condomarans” prove the importance of balanced design by employing all of the performance limiters in one package: house trailer windage, low aspect-ratio keels, tiny rudders, and too little canvas. You just can’t make that work.

Low-aspect ratio keels can create boats that are terrible at tacking. Specific to cats, you have two long hulls, with minimal rocker, that must be dragged around a 90-degree turn. Add poor pointing angles, low speed, too little sail area, and too much windage, and you have a tacking slug. The solutions?

• Good speed. Never tack from anything other than full-and-by (close hauled but no fluttering). Since most of these boats do not have a backstay, keep the mainsheet tight (that is your backstay).
• Weight back during the tack. On beach cats and performance multihulls, lifting the bows reduces drag through the turn.
• Ease the traveler and mainsheet. Once the jib breaks, ease the main enough that it does not push the boat back into irons.
• Release the jib when it breaks. There may be some benefit in holding an overlapping headsail just long enough so that it blows through positively, but do not delay so long that the backed sail slows the boat.
• Get the jib in quick. There is no excuse for not having it trimmed in the moment it first can fill on the new tack. It will pull the bow through and help the boat accelerate. If something is snagging, remove the cause of the snag.

What about backwinding the jib? Only when proper technique fails. If the boat fall into irons, slack the main completely, use the rudder to back up in the opposite of the direction that you wish to go, and let the boat fall of onto a beam reach before you make any attempts to sheet the main in and go start forward. Sheet in gradually.

This is where the benefits of shoal draft kick-in. Shallow berths are cheaper in some markets. Deep water slips rent for a premium. Often marinas have shallow slips along the bulkhead or in some corner.

But taking the ground on a low spring tide is a risk. Mud is best, sand is no good, and checking for debris under the slip is a smart move.

Maintenance

It nice to be able to work while wading instead of swimming, with caveats.

Scrubbing. Hard paint can be scrubbed, but soft paint rapidly wears away, polluting the environment and fouling even faster  (“Bottom Paint Care,” PS March 2018). And scrubbing while wading is not that much better than swimming, because the boat is constantly yawing in the wind. When you push, the boat swings away from you, so you are constantly walking. Sometimes the motion is faster than you can walk.

Mechanical work. I’ve replaced outboard lower units both ways, and floating in a PFD was easier (float your tools in a mortar tray). Small multihulls can lace trampolines in the shallows, but if you plan it out, it’s actually easier in a marina.

Drying out to paint is a myth in most places. There isn’t enough tide. You won’t have time to scrape, and in this day, you must capture everything that comes off the boat. And what about paint drying time?

In the market for a centerboard cruiser? Here is my take on very short list of 35- to 45-foot boats that have drawn my eye. Some I’ve sailed, some not. I’d love to hear from readers about their favorite centerboarders.

This is a pure cruising cutter that the late Jim Krogen designed for himself to cruise the shoal waters of Florida and the Bahamas. It has two bronze centerboards, one in front of the other, making it very easy to balance on long passages.

Pros: This is a robust, three-cabin cruising boat with a loyal following.

Cons: Cored hull and teak decks on the boat often pose problems.

Morgan 41 Centerboard

I’ve sailed on a couple of these sloops and like the way they look and sail. The poor man’s Bermuda 40’s heritage traces back to designer Charlie Morgan’s breakthrough Paper Tiger , ensuring a loyal following among Morgan fans.

Pros: Storied design, with a good deck layout and comfortable motion.

Cons: Finish quality varies greatly as many were owner-completed. Factory interior is pretty basic.

A classic Sparkman & Stephens design. Three couples who I cruised in company with in the Caribbean had Tartan 37s, and all of them were happy with the boat.

Pros: A very popular dual-purpose classic with good bones.

Cons: A bit pricey for the size and vintage, and not as spacious as contemporary 37-footers.

In the Pacific and Southeast Asia, we sailed with two different couples cruising aboard these aluminum boats, made popular by circumnavigator, rally organizer, and author Jimmy Cornell.

Pros: Tough aluminum construction, good track record.

Cons: High price, and used boats are hard to find.

Block Island 40

I’ve never sailed on this fabled yawl designed by Bill Tripp, but contributing editor Ralph Naranjo often cites it as an example of rugged construction and sound design.

Pros: Proven offshore design with a cult-like following.

Cons: Many of the older Block Island 40s require expensive upgrades that will quickly eat through a cruising budget.

Bristol 35.5

This Ted Hood design marked Bristol’s push into the big-boat market under Clint Pearson.

Pros: This is a solidly built and popular Bermuda veteran.

Cons: Totally enclosed cable makes it difficult to service. Not as spacious as contemporary cruisers in this size.

Sabre 38 MkI or MkII

I’ve sailed several Sabres, ranging from the older Roger Hewson designed 34s to the new-generation Jim Taylor boats, and have always been impressed with the way they handled.

Pros: Sabres craftsmanship is above average for production boats. Stick-built interior is more amenable to owner conversions.

Cons: Outside of the Northeast, Sabres do not carry as much value as some other brands.  

Some of the myths are true, or I wouldn’t have stayed with multihulls. I can take a short cut over the 4-foot bar in front of my home marina, shaving several miles off the deep keel parade around the end. I can avoid the crowds, anchoring in creeks and coves too shallow to merit guidebook mention. My slip is cheap; all of the sailboats in my marina are multihulls. I regularly anchor within wading distance of the beach. It is tons of fun in the summer.

Being able to duck inside, between barrier islands is handy when the weather turns grim, but never try a shallow inlet in onshore conditions; you need to make this decision before it begins to break.

I took several long trips with my young daughter around the Delmarva Peninsula, often taking the notorious shallow and fickle Virginia Inside Passage. It is a memory neither of us will forget. And isn’t that what boats are all about? 

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Why don’t you build flying sail boats insread of the way they built them in 1492

Foiling is fun! However, you never foil or even sail fast in shoal waters; grounding with a board or foil at over 10 knots gets expensive really fast. You slow down to keel boat speeds and lift the boards as soon as the bottom gets close.

Would you say these comments apply to smaller monohulls as well? Sub 20 feet? The Dovekie, included in your opening paragraph, is an example it has pivoting leeboards, small bow centerboard and a pivoting rudder. Draws 4 inches fully retracted and weighs about 600 lbs. The boat could be pulled up on the beach using inflatable rollers but may not be necessary with 4 inch draft. I think most of the anchorages would be very secluded with little chance of fetch or wake building waves. Maybe hull maintenance isn’t so bad on such a small vessel? Clearly, they need to choose conditions and maybe that’s difficult when conditions can change after the decision has been made. Your opening paragraph highlights the weather trouble.

Dovekie owners often say they will “float on heavy dew.” That’s a stellar trait in many estuaries.

Yes, you can pull many small boats up on the sand without aid from rollers. I can assure you, though, that 600 pounds of flat bottom will be a burly task, since a 350-pound Hobie cat takes two. Additionally, you will grind off some gel coat in the process. My first fiberglass repair experience was rebuilding the keels of a beach cat that had been hauled up too many times. After that, I used beach wheels. Yes, small creek beaches can be safe, but wavelets in even the best sheltered cove will cause the boat to sway and grind on the beach unless anchor out or carry above the influence of the waves, and don’t forget that the tide will change, leaving the boat adrift or high and dry. Every dinghy operator has experienced this.

We really like little boats. We just wanted to inject a little realism and help users avoid a few of the pitfalls we have stepped in.

So, for extreme shoal draft, sheltered anchorage with 2 feet below keel at low tide. Does that sound safe? Wavelets wouldn’t be a problem then. I do appreciate the warning on breaking waves in shallow water. I’m trying to decide on a trailer sailor for my family and weighing the difference between an extreme boat like the Dovekie or some thing a bit more conventional like the CLC Pocketship. We are comfortable in tents. Seems like the Dovekie would give us more of what we want but we would still need to follow sensible anchoring guidelines.

I’d like to direct you to a local Dovekie owners group at http://www.shallowwatersailor.us . They have a lot more experience with these specific boats than I do. You may be on the right path, but it just depends on where you sail and what you like.

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Find Out the Best Shoal Draft Sailboats

Feb 17, 2020

less than a min

re you looking to buy a boat or a yacht? Are you new to the whole naval industry and the marine world? Are you utterly confused right now? It does sound like the beginning of a very random ad, however do not panic! If you are looking to buy a boat and are not sure where to start, know that this is something common for many people. The boating industry is a very interesting and complex one, offering a variety of models and makes with different characteristics that could or could not be appropriate for you. As a result, before buying a boat or settling on a model, make sure to do your research properly . A good first step is to learn the terminology and what different sailboats have to offer.

Let’s start with what a shoal draft sailboat is and what the best shoal draft sailboats can offer you.

A shoal-draft sailboat has a non-centerboard fin keel. They offer the ability to enter very shallow waters and even sail in those waters. That is the main advantage shoal draft sailboats display compared to center-line keels. They are easier to maneuver in complicated situations and their fins take up less interior space. Also, they require less maintenance overall. 

The 3 best shoal draft sailboats

Shoal draft sailboats have become quite popular in the last few years due to their undeniable advantages. Here are the three best shoal draft sailboats that you should have a look at before making a purchase.

• BENETEAU FIRST 435

The Beneteau First 435 is a 1980s construction that became popular quite fast. It features a big hull that allows for ample accommodation space. It includes a three-cabin/three-head layout as well as an aft cabin with a peninsula bed. As a result, during the 80s and 90s this yacht was considered a large one. It also came with the opportunity to choose between a shallow or deep keel, or even three keels, a 2.3-meter draught fin, a 1.9-meter shallow fin and a centerboard, however this model was not much in demand. 

The Bavaria 40 Cruiser is a big boat featuring a large space at a convenient price due to its design and engineering. It was first built in 2000, with two types of keels, the deep iron, a 1.95-meter draught, and a shallow iron, a 1.65-meter draught. It has a three-cabin and a two-heads layout. In addition, the interior space is well lit and aerated. 

• JEANNEAU SUN ODYSSEY 36.2

The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 36.2 is a shallow fin sailboat with a 1.37-meter fin. The boat still remains stable when on water due to an increased ballast. The hull of this model is well proportioned and allows for comfortable accommodation space. It also features a big fore-cabin, aft cabin, and a large aft heads compartment area. All in all, this is a good model for those looking for a comfortable cruise boat rather than a race boat. 

You can compare these three boats with other models on TheBoatDB and decide for yourself which one is the most appropriate for you!

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