If you're looking for vibrant and information-rich online communities for boat enthusiasts, there are a few great options to consider. "The Hull Truth" is one of the largest boating forums, especially popular among power boaters. It's filled with active discussions on everything from maintenance tips to technical advice. For those with a keen interest in sailing, "Sailing Anarchy" provides a lively space for discussions that include both performance sailing and cruising topics.
Additionally, "Cruisers Forum" offers a broad platform that caters to a mix of power and sail cruising enthusiasts. It’s a great place if you're interested in long-range cruising advice or topics related to liveaboard lifestyles. Each of these forums is well-moderated and hosts a wealth of knowledge shared by experienced boaters, making them invaluable resources for both new and seasoned boaters.
If you’re looking for even more specialized information, communities like "iBoats" offer a variety of focused discussions, often tailored towards DIY repairs and restorations, which can be quite useful if you're into hands-on projects. Most of these forums also have archived threads that serve as excellent resources, so be sure to explore past discussions for additional insights.