There are a multitude of types of motor boats. Ski boats are designed to have a lot of pulling power while producing a small wake, bass fishing boats have flat tops with elevated seats to get a better view of the water and pontoon boats provide plenty of seats for entertaining guests. Runabouts are small, multipurpose boats that can handle skiing, fishing and cruising.
There are three classifications of boat engines: outboards, inboards, and inboard/outboard. Outboards are mounted on the boat transom, just off the back of the boat, with a lower unit that connects the propeller. Inboards are engines that are completely inside the boat, and have a drive shaft that is routed through the hull to a propeller underneath the boat. Inboard/outboards have the engine mounted within the hull, but have an outdrive connected to the boat's transom.
Boats can be outfitted with tremendous options. Bimini tops can shield passengers from the sun or rain, and many watercraft have a stereo installed. Wakeboarding boats have ballast systems to enhance the wake as well as towers mounted to pull the rider higher in the air, and many fishing boats come with an electric fish finder. Boat trailers have their own options too, including wheel guards and wheel brakes.
