Power Boat Hull Types

Power boat hulls are divided into three main types - Displacement, Semi-displacement and Planing hulls. Each hull type can have many sub-types which are closer to one or the other end of the spectrum. Considering each hull configuration in detail will reveal its benefits and disadvantages. Your choice will of course be influenced by your intended usage and the amount of your budget.

The size of your intended power boat will also be a factor in your choice of hull type; for instance if you are considering a large power boat (large is a relative term) then you will be less likely to choose a full planing hull. Large fast planing hulls require large expensive engines and use large amounts of fuel making operating and servicing costs high. Below are outlines of the qualities of the various types of power boat hulls.