Which type of boat has a greater risk of being swamped?

Flat-bottom boats have a greater risk of being swamped due to their design. Their shallow draft and broad beam provide stability on calm waters, but they are less effective in rough or choppy conditions. When waves hit a flat-bottom boat, the boat can easily take on water over the sides, particularly if it is not weighted appropriately or if the waves are sufficiently large.

This type of boat is often used in shallow waters and can be ideal for fishing or navigating narrow rivers and streams; however, their susceptibility to swamping in adverse weather conditions or rough water scenarios means that boaters using flat-bottoms must be especially vigilant. In contrast, V-hull boats and deep-sea fishing boats are designed with a more pronounced keel and pontoons that help to deflect water and maintain buoyancy in rough waters. Canoes, while they can also be swamped, typically have a lower center of gravity and are often paddled by skilled individuals who can navigate conditions more adeptly, making them somewhat safer in varying conditions than flat-bottom boats.