I think ANY boat is somewhat clownish, it cost money to run and keep (roughly HP/10 = gallons per hour), money for liability insurance, upkeep (easier if you can DIY it), and registration/taxes.
BUT there is a huge spread.
I can pick up a running 14 foot aluminum boat with trailer and 9.9-15HP all day for ~2K. Of course, it would be used somewhat worn, older engine, and not as shiny. That doesn't require a 15 MPG clown-truck. Since I live on a river and the two towns to the north (with the safe dedicated bike path and good entertainment/restaurants) and the 3 towns to the south all have public landings and would take about as long to drive as boat . . . we will probably get a small boat eventually (heck I MIGHT actually be able to get to work via boat and a short walk). And if I we don't use it enough (though I love being on the water, so probably not the case), well it will have aged enough that I can sell it again for about what I would have paid. This kind of boat doesn't tether you to it like having a fancy RV or island/lake house.
On the other end of the spectrum and brand new 225+ HP 22+ foot boats that cost more to run, operate, maintain, insure, and register. They weight more and require a more powerful tow vehicle. Oh, and the depreciation is brutal. And are much more clown like.
And that doesn't even move us into the yacht/houseboat/live aboard class that is even more face punching.
But, to answer, the title question asked. Yes, any boat is unnecessary spending and is face punch worthy; its just a matter of whether it is your 3 year old niece doing the face punch or Amanda Nunes doing the face punch.