Any preferences on boat speakers? Is there a need other than water that would prevent using a good set of car speakers in boat as long as they are not prone to water contact?

Keep in mind even if not exposed to direct water contact, moisture levels, extreme temperature, and UV light are all factors in a boat. If placement is in the cabin, automotive speakers will do fine. But if in the cockpit, I would stay with marine speakers. Marine speakers, have additional measures to prevent corrosion. Good ones will also have UV protection. UV will destroy a paper cone and/or the foam surround. If using in the cockpit, and water exposure will be minimal, a water resistant speaker would be fine. I have kicker marine speakers in my cockpit, and they handle the occasional rain shower fine. However I have full water proof speakers made by dc gold mounted in my transom. Those get soap and water wash and rain all the time and sound great, even when soaked.

Good points. Will look into the Kicker Marine Audio.

There's several good marine speakers and amps on the market, just depends on ur budget,
I put Rockford Fosgate in mine and they sound great

Wet sounds and bazooka marine 8" 2way sound awesome