Inboard racing is the largest APBA category, comprising many classes of racing Hydroplanes and Runabouts, spanning an enormous range of size and power. Because APBA Inboard racing rules are consistent throughout the U.S., a racer may compete in any APBA Inboard Event, confident of legality and a level playing field. Start anywhere in a wide range of classes, from wild Jersey Speed Skiffs (80 MPH) toGrand Prix Hydroplanes (170 MPH). Minimum ages are 14 to 21 depending on the class. The teamwork, professionalism and family atmosphere of Inboard are unmatched.

There is a 5 minute gun that will signal for boats to leave the pits. Driver will get a few laps around course before a 1 minute gun will sound. They will then find a lane for positions and stay in that lane. They will slowly come to starting line but not to fast as they do not want to be to early so as not to jump the gun. The clock will be counting down to zero and that is when the drivers will put their foot into it as the saying goes. There are rules for drivers to go by or the turn judge will see the infraction and call a penalty for that driver. The inside lane is what most drivers like because it is the shortest distance around the course. 5 miles is the length of race course, but size some times varies. If the course is (1 mile) then the boats will make 5 laps around. If (1 2/3 mile) 3 laps, (1 ¼ mile) then 4 laps.