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Boat Buyers Guide By Boat Type

The Northern Illinois Boat Show is coming to Grayslake at the New Lake County Fairgrounds in 2026! Parking is free for you to view over 200 new and used boats. Featuring 20 vendors and 50 boat brands on display with on-site, long-term, low-rate financing available! Get Preseason pricing, show special pricing, and in-stock availability on the following items.

Check out this quick boat buyers guide so you are educated a little bit before you come to the show.

Bow Riders

Designed for day cruising and recreation, bowriders are typically between 17’-35’ long and allow access to the bow for sunbathing, relaxing, and general seating. Bowriders are agile and versatile, they can be purchased standard or with high-end finishes customized for your liking, making them a top choice in this guide for boat buyers who anticipate up to 8-10 passengers.

Ski Boats

A top choice for waterskiing buyers, this type of boat is typically made of light fiberglass and has an inboard engine so propellers are far away from the edge of the boat, tucked into the bottom of the boat. These boats typically place the engine in the middle of the boat, and they host a control tower where various accessories can be attached, along with in-floor ski lockers and safe attachment areas for tow ropes. Ski boats run with strong acceleration and minimum wake sizes producing a level ride for smooth skiing.

Wakeboard Boats

To get wakes as big as possible a wakeboard boat functions with listed guide features like a deeper-v shaped hull and the engine at the back of the boat. The boat’s running attitude changes with extra weight, also called “ballast”, or specially crafted tabs or hydrofoils, in order to pump up and shape the wakes to create the perfect launch ramp for wakeboarders to achieve their biggest air. Propellers are tucked well under the bottom of the boat for safety and performance; steering is accomplished via a pivoting rudder.

Cabin Cruiser

Listed in this guide as recreational by nature, cabin cruiser boats are generally equipped with cooking, sleeping, and bathroom facilities and are ideal for buyers who want to feel the sun above and the ocean below. Typically in the 25′ – 45’ range, these vessels offer all the essentials of a home, including air conditioning, hot water, a galley (kitchen), a head (toilet), and multiple berths (sleeping accommodations).

Cuddy Cabins

Cuddy cabins are ideal for day cruising, watersports, and other on-the-water activities such as fishing and swimming. Our boat guide lists this as a buyer’s favorite. Cuddy’s swap the open-front seating area in the traditional bowrider for a small, enclosed cabin where a v-shaped bed and possibly a small head, galley, and freshwater sink.

Deck Boats

A great choice for boat buyers. Deck boats have a wide front deck to carry more passengers with a look and performance more like runabouts. Deck boats maintain their width farther forward than a bowrider or runabout, with a square bow vs. the v-shape of other boats, adding more forward seating. It made this guide for these specific reasons.

Jet Boats

Jet boats offer buyers a high-performance powerful ride leaping onto the plane with little hesitation, boasting thrilling speeds and handling with unparalleled agility even in shallow waters. Jet power uses an easy-to-maintain propulsion system enclosed in the hull so no propellers get in the way of streamlining their raw power. A guide favorite.

Pontoon Boats

Pontoon boats are designed to float on large pontoons and are the number one growing boating segment in this guide due to their stylish interiors, stand-up bars, sun pads, and entertainment options. Since pontoon boats offer more space and more carrying capacity than any other boating type, they are the popular choice for buyers wanting to relax on the water with family and friends. When equipped with larger engines they can reach 60 mph.

Fishing Boats

Built for versatility, fishing boats are often used for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. All-purpose fishing boats are a perfect choice for buyers due to their versatility and capability of a wide variety of tasks. All-purpose models typically feature a deeper-V boat bottom, or “hull”, and have higher sides for protection.

Buyers Guide for Boat Lifts, Pier Services, & Docks

Boat Lifts

Proper storage and maintenance are crucial for prolonging the life of your boat and ensuring a safe and enjoyable boating experience. Boat lifts and pier services play a significant role in achieving this.

Boat lifts are invaluable devices designed to keep / raise your boat out of the water when not in use. This practice helps prevent hull damage, reduces algae growth and buildup, and minimizes corrosion risks, especially in saltwater environments.

Types of Boat Lifts

Freestanding Lifts

• Ideal for stable water levels.
• Portable and adjustable to various locations.

Pile-Mounted Lifts

• Installed on permanent piles.
• Great for areas with fluctuating water levels.
• Robust support more suitable for larger boats.

Floating Lifts

• Perfect for deep water or environments with significant water level changes.
• Lift floats alongside your dock, adjusts with the water level, providing consistent support.

Considerations When Choosing a Boat Lift

• Boat Size and Weight: Ensure the lift can accommodate your boat’s specifications.
• Water Depth and Fluctuations: Select a lift suitable for the typical water conditions at your dock.
• Material and Construction: Opt for materials resistant to corrosion and suitable for the environmental conditions of your location.

Pier Services

Piers and docks serve as the primary access point to your boat and can be customized to enhance functionality and safety.

Common Pier Services

• Dock Construction and Repair: Building new docks or repairing existing structures to ensure safety and durability.
• Dock Accessories Installation: Adding features like cleats, ladders, lighting, and bumpers to improve usability and safety.
• Seasonal Maintenance: Services such as cleaning, inspections, and winterization to maintain the dock’s condition year-round.

Considerations for Pier Services

• Local Regulations: Be aware of any permits or regulations governing dock construction and modifications in your area.
• Environmental Impact: Consider eco-friendly materials and construction methods to minimize environmental disruption.
• Customization: Tailor the design and accessories of your dock to match your boating lifestyle and preferences.

Incorporating boat lifts and utilizing professional pier services can significantly enhance your boating experience by providing convenience, protecting your investment, and ensuring safety.

Boat Docs

Proper docking and storage are essential for maintaining the longevity and safety of your boat. Whether you’re looking to protect your investment or create a convenient boating setup, boat lifts and docks play a vital role in your overall boating experience.

A well-designed dock provides safe and convenient access to your boat while enhancing your waterfront property. Docks can be customized with features and materials tailored to your needs.

Types of Docks

Fixed Docks

• Permanently anchored and stable.
• Suitable for areas with little to no water level variation.

Floating Docks

• Adjust to changing water levels.
• Versatile and ideal for lakes and rivers with fluctuating conditions.

Module Docks

• Highly customizable and easy to reconfigure.
• A popular choice for growing boating setups.

Customization Options

• Dock Accessories: Add ladders, bumpers, cleats, or lighting for safety and functionality.
• Material Choices: Select from wood, aluminum, or composite materials based on durability and aesthetic preferences.
• Personalized Layouts: Build layouts to match your boating lifestyle, such as platforms for entertaining or fishing.

Maintenance Tips

• Inspect docks regularly for wear and damage.
• Apply sealants or coatings to protect wooden docks from weathering.
• Clean docks seasonally to remove debris and ensure a safe surface.

Why Invest in Boat Lifts and Docks?

• Protect Your Boat: Extend the lifespan of your boat by reducing water exposure and hull damage.
• Convenience: Enjoy easy access to your boat with a well-constructed dock.
• Increase Property Value: A high-quality dock can enhance the value and usability of your waterfront property.