Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images When the U.S. achieved its independence, the country was hopeful that its new standing would usher in an era of free trade. â
Bay boats have a low profile. They are designed for use in shallow waters of large shallow bays, estuaries or near shore. Bay boats are 18'â24' in length and are fiberglass because they are used in salt or brackish waters. They have more freeboard than a flats boat.
The boats can typically travel at speeds over 80 knots (150 km/h) in calm waters, over 50 knots (90 km/h) in choppy waters, and maintain 25 knots (47 km/h) in the average five to seven foot (1.5 to 2 m) Caribbean seas. They are heavy enough to cut through higher waves, although at a slower pace.