If you’re in the market for a new boat, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with different kinds of hulls. The hull makes up the vessel's bottom, and its shape influences the boat’s top speed and turning radius. Use the following guide to learn about the four most common types of hulls.

4 Common Types of Boat Hulls 

1. Flat

Flat-bottomed boats are suitable for calm waterways with little to no wake. As long as there are no waves, these stable vessels can accommodate hefty loads. They are also an affordable and popular choice for small fishing boats made of aluminum or fiberglass.

2. Vee

Vessels with a V-shaped bottom can cut through waves with ease. This ensures a smooth ride, even in choppy waters. While they can reach fairly high speeds, they require considerable power because of the angle of the hull. Additionally, they roll when making sharp turns, and they don’t offer a lot of space for accommodation or storage. The hull shape is popular on speed boats and deep-sea fishing vessels that need to handle rough waters. 

3. Round 

Round hulls are the perfect compromise between flat and vee hulls. Boats with a round hull move through the water easily at low to medium speeds, but they need a deep keel, or they’ll begin to roll. This shape is popular on canoes, sailboats, and trawlers. 

4. Multi 

Catamarans are boats with two distinct hulls, while trimarans are boats with three. The additional hulls ensure exceptional stability, and on enormous vessels, they allow for luxurious accommodations. On smaller boats, the hulls are connected with a simple trampoline. While vessels with multiple hulls can reach high speeds, they require room to maneuver in waterways. 

Sutter’s Canandaigua Marina Inc. boasts a vast inventory of new boats with various kinds of hulls. Serving families across the Greater Rochester, NY, area, this dealer has been in business since 1993. Conveniently located on the pier, they can meet all your boating needs, from sales and service to maintenance and storage. Visit their website to browse their new boats or call (585) 394-0918 to discuss your needs with a knowledgeable member of their team.