This dilemma just needs to be thought through. Radio controlled boats increase in complexity and maintenance as they increase in size and power and by type of power they use.
For people say 16 or under and for beginners I would generally recommend that they get a taste for the sport/hobby and start off with an entry level boat. And by that I mean an electric model that's powered by rechargeable batteries. Why? Because electric models are by far the simplest to operate and maintain. They have the advantage of being clean, quiet, and very easy to drive. This allows newbies an opportunity to explore the operation of the vehicle and improve their driving skills without the more complicated and challenging aspects of engine tuning, fuel mixtures and high speed that come with a gas or nitro-powered model. And they can be run by younger people with minimal adult supervision. Note that the power of an electric boat is fast but is not as fast as nitro or gas boats. Sometimes you need to walk before you can run.
However having said that anyone with a keen interest in mechanics and how engines run may want to go straight for the power and adrenaline rush of a gas or nitro model. This would be an intermediate level boat and a nitro model is a good starting point. Nitro models have 2.5cc two-stroke engine that is driven by fuel that's made of alcohol and nitromethane (racing fuel often used in drag racing). These engines resemble engines that you may find in a gas-powered weed trimmer only they are small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. Nitro fuel delivers almost three times the power of a gas engine and can be a lot smaller as a result. Gas boats will often be bigger and can reach 6feet long. The sheer size can be daunting for beginners and are best left until skills have been honed. Fast things can come in small packages. The roar of the engine, the exhaust, and the incredible speed and acceleration are truly satisfying for anyone who runs one.
Look for features that make it easy to get up and running, for instance Traxxas Nitro models are designed with the first-time enthusiast in mind because the engines are equipped with an exclusive push-button electric starter...and that is a godsend as you don't have to mess around with another piece of equipment. Models should have good manuals and ideally DVDs to walk you through the process of getting up and running. At the very least they will have you talking and tuning like a pro in no time. Most manufacturers will stand by their products and will help you if there is an issue very often supplying a toll-free customer support number to answer any questions. With these more powerful boats it probably makes sense to have a "hovering" adult there to supervise and help them to understand the dynamics of these more powerful models. It's a great thing for Dads and their kids to do together. And although there are less women involved in the sport this is definitely not just for boys.
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