Air Boat

Airboats are boats that are powered by an airplane-style propeller above the water. This feature simplifies setup considerably. First, you don't need such expensive hardware such as all the drive-line equipment. And also, most airboats do not need water-cooling because the prop-blast usually cools the engine adequately. This means you can use any airplane engine you want on an airboat, you don't need a specialized, expensive marine engine to power it.

The hulls of airboats vary with each boat, but for the most part, the bottom of the boat is relatively flat and laterally stable. Long, thin hulls such as the deep-vee cannot be used because they could tip as a result of the torque of the engine, which is located high above the hull, making it top-heavy.

The speed of airboats are different with every model. Some go relatively slow, others can go over 40mph. One particular airboat, scratch built by an expert, has been estimated at speeds in excess of 70 mph! Steering can be handled with an air-rudder, a water-rudder, or both.

Airboats can fit any level of boater, from first-timer to expert, due to the wide variety of styles and speeds available. This could be a great first-timers boat because of it's easy setup. Just get a sport or entry-level boat, not a super, high performance airboat that is going to run away from you.