" JimH" jimhUNDERSCOREosudad@yahooDOTcom wrote in message

... A bow pulpit is found on recreational boats (as noted in your initial
question). Bowsprits are found on large sailing vessels.

I believe it relates to function as well. A pulpit allows overwater
access - originally, I think, for a harpooner of swordfish or tuna in the
days before longlining. A bowsprit is, I think, primarily a place required
on the extreme forward end of the ship as a fastening point for certain
parts of the running rigging.