What Makes A Good Family Boat?

Buying a family boat is a big investment—both financially and in the time you’ll spend making memories on the water. With so many options available, it’s important to choose a boat that’s versatile, comfortable, and designed with real families in mind. At Crevalle, every model is built to deliver performance and comfort for both serious fishing and family fun.

Here are the key features that make a boat perfect for family use—and how Crevalle delivers on each one.

Finding The Perfect Family Boat - image of a family fishing from a Crevalle hybrid bay boat

Big Enough for the Whole Family

Your boat should comfortably accommodate your family—plus a few friends. While some 17-foot models offer basic seating, a 24-foot hybrid bay boat or larger will offer more comfort and flexibility for longer outings or entertaining.

Spacious and Comfortable Seating

Crevalle’s hybrid models offer thoughtful seating throughout the boat, with options that double as storage. Every model from the 24 HCO up to the 33 CSF includes:

  • A 40″ aft bench that seats two adults or three kids—elevated for a fun ride through the waves
  • Optional bow cushions and removable backrests for lounging
  • Cushioned helm bench seating for two

The 33 CSF adds even more seating with a second helm station, L-lounge cockpit seating, and optional sundeck cushions.

Aside from being large enough, the ideal family boat needs plenty of seating - family comfortably seated on a boat

Personal Comforts

Planning to spend full days on the water? Choose a boat with amenities to keep everyone comfortable. Crevalle offers add-on accessories like a porta-potty in the center console and, on the 33 CSF, a built-in hardtop freshwater shower to rinse off saltwater after a swim.

Onboard Dining

Every Crevalle model includes multiple cooler options for keeping food and drinks fresh. These coolers also double as livewells, letting you seamlessly shift from lunch to fishing.

Each model includes food prep areas as well:

  • 24 HCO, 26 HCO, and 26 HBW feature a sink behind the helm
  • 33 CSF includes a fold-out freshwater sink and cutting boards in the aft area

Optional acrylic tables are also available to make onboard dining more comfortable.

Make room for a dining table - father and two boys eating at an acrylic table on board their boat

Weather Protection

All Crevalle models include standard or optional weather features so you can enjoy your time on the water even when conditions change. Key options include:

  • Hardtop helms on all models
  • 33 CSF: Fully enclosed center console
  • 26 HCO: Console hatch for quick access
  • 26 HBW: Three-piece glass enclosure and hardtop
  • 24 HCO: Optional windscreen compatible with its covered top

Though you should avoid going out in dangerous conditions, you want a boat that your family can enjoy in the sun, wind, mist, and maybe a little bit of rain - image of the sun covered by clouds over the ocean

Inshore and Offshore Versatility

Crevalle boats are hybrid by design—built for both inshore and offshore activities. Whether you’re fishing near the flats or cruising the open Gulf, Crevalle’s hull designs give you a smooth, stable ride in a wide variety of conditions.

Great for Water Sports

Every model includes a swim platform for easy boarding after swimming, tubing, or just cooling off. Family fun comes standard.

Look for nearshore/offshore versatility for maximum watersport enjoyment - 3 boys jumping off the side of a boat while the adults watch

Durability

All Crevalle models are built from 100% composite materials—no wood, no rot. Infused fiberglass hulls provide strength and stability, making them ideal for both calm and choppy waters. This ensures long-lasting performance and safety for years of family adventures.

Ready to Build Your Family Boat?

Crevalle Boats are designed by fishermen, built for families, and equipped for every kind of adventure—including those with four-legged crew members.

Still exploring your options? Check out:

Ready to take the next step? Start building your Crevalle boat today.

What Makes The Best Family Boat -Big enough for the whole family -Spacious and Comfortable Seating -Onboard Dining -Personal Comforts -Inshore and Offshore Versatility -Great for Water Sports -Durability

Also check out Boating Magazine’s Review of the Crevalle 26 HBW.