Some Common and Unique Types of Boats
Boats are watercrafts designed to float and move over water. Boats are usually classified as small water vessels. They are commonly used in inland bodies of water such as lakes, rivers and streams. However, they are also used in protected coastal areas. While most boats do not venture out into open sea, specialized ones such as whaleboats are designed to be operated from a ship heading out to open waters.
In naval terms, boats are small enough to be carried aboard another vessel. However, there are exceptions. For example, Great lakes freighters, riverboats and ferryboats are quite large. However, they are still considered boats because they operate inland or near the shore.
Each type of boat has a specific purpose, be it military, government, research, commercial or recreational use. Regardless of its size however, any watercraft vessel that is private and for non-commercial usage is usually considered a boat.
There are many types of boats. Canoes, for example, are one of the smallest boats. It is small, narrow and is usually moved through the water with the use of paddles. They can also be sailed. Canoes are usually pointed at the bow and stern and are open on top. They are most often used for recreation and sports.
Another common type of boat is the sailboat. This is a boat that is powered partly or entirely with sails. The term "sailboat" is generally used to cover a variety of boats from small vessels such as sailboards to larger ones such as yachts. The distinction, however, is not strictly defined.
Sailboats can also be differentiated by several factors such as hull configuration, keel type, purpose, the number of masts and the sail plan.
Catamarans, on the other hand, are unique types of boats. They consist of two hulls joined by a frame. Catamarans are a relatively recent design for leisure and sport sailing although they have been seen in ancient times in Oceania. Many old time sailors are skeptical in using catamarans because they are much more used to an older style and type.
Another unique and modern type of boat is the hovercraft or an Air-Cushion Vehicle. This is an advanced amphibious boat can travel on water and on land! It is supported by a cushion of slow moving, low pressure air that is ejected downwards against the ground or water surface. To move the craft forward, it has propellers which push the air horizontally. Hovercrafts are used for commercial and military purposes.
There are many other types of boats that are available. For more information about these boats, one can always check the net.
