sitting on the boat vs sitting in the boat

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Sitting on the boat' implies that the person is sitting on the deck or surface of a particular boat. 'Sitting in the boat' suggests that the person is inside the boat, such as in the cabin or hull.

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Editor at TextRanch

Last updated: March 20, 2025 • 4797 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used to indicate that someone is sitting on the deck or surface of a boat.

"sitting on the boat"

This phrase is used when someone is sitting on the deck or surface of a boat, enjoying the view or relaxing.

Examples:

I love sitting on the boat and feeling the sea breeze on my face.
She was sitting on the boat, watching the sunset over the horizon.

Show examples from the web [+]

Jun 8, 2008 ... Me and Mr. Freddie King.Very rare blues song. 1966 The Beat.
Caption: Attractive young woman sitting on the edge of the speed boat and looking at camera. Beautiful brunette woman sitting on the boat. Credit: skynesher.
Girl sitting on the boat. Girl sitting on the boat. TAGS:#girl#boat#marina#white# white pants#blond#blonde#wedges#style#outfit#woman. Free download ...
Nov 26, 2014 ... But most of the weight will be sitting on the boat's keel, which should be supported by wood blocks. If not, your boat could suffer a broken back.

Alternatives:

sitting on the deck of the boat
sitting on the bow of the boat
sitting on the stern of the boat
sitting on the edge of the boat
sitting on the railing of the boat

This phrase is correct and commonly used to indicate that someone is inside the boat, such as in the cabin or hull.

"sitting in the boat"

This phrase is used when someone is sitting inside the boat, like in the cabin, hull, or any enclosed area.

Examples:

We were sitting in the boat, waiting for the rain to stop.
The kids were happily sitting in the boat, playing with their toys.

Show examples from the web [+]

the men were sitting in the boat. In the middle of the boat there was a small mast with one, large sail and there were four heavy rowing oars. Some of the men ...
The front of the boat, which is behind the rowers while sitting in the boat. The bow crosses the finish line first. Bowball. A small white rubber ball attached to the ...
Oct 30, 2012 ... (There is no difference between the anchor hanging in the water and sitting in the boat, since the system boat + anchor weighs the same either ...
Fisherman sitting in the boat and fishing. Fishing Icons. 2 banners. Flat design Preview. Save to a lightbox. Find Similar Images. Share. Facebook · Twitter; Email.

Alternatives:

sitting inside the boat
sitting within the boat
sitting aboard the boat
sitting below deck in the boat
sitting in the cabin of the boat

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sitting on the boat vs sitting in the boat

"sitting on the boat"

"sitting in the boat"

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