is a 40 foot sailboat big

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Is 40 foot an Ideal size Sailing Boat

• Thread starter savageseadog
• Start date 6 Dec 2006

savageseadog

Well-known member.

I know it depends on what you are going to do, but I'm talking about an all rounder, something that can be cruised almost anywhere and could be raced as well with a sensible size crew. The basis for thinking this is that over 40 foot costs seem to multiply, sail size and sizes of everything again get too big. The draught gets very restrictive too. Maintenance wise a 40 footer can be maintained by an owner alone. Beyond 40 foot lifting becomes a difficult issue as well. Any comments, I'm not talking about a hard and fast 40, more like 38-42 foot.  

john_morris_uk

I think 40 foot is a pretty good size, but the real question is 'for what?' Our boat is 39 foot and we live on her for a few weeks a year, with a plan to live onboard for a year or two when I get my pemsion. For us, the size is good - and its what we can afford (just!)  

Active member

As the owner of R38, you expect me to agree and I do. Your points are valid, I'm a great fan of the maxim of "If you can't manhandle it, then think carefully about putting on it a boat." So anchors and sails that, above 40' ish, start to need power winches go into that category. I'm not knocking a power windlass, I'm fitting one myself this winter it is just that if it all goes wrong I'm know that I can heave the thing up by brute force. As for docking in any kind of a blow and manoeuvring in a marina, some marinas are tight at 38 foot. Yes, I know that the Dame Ellen's and Mike Goldings of this world handle their huge craft single handedly but these boats are equipped with whopping great coffee grinder winches which well outside of what I would want to put on a cruising boat. I've got a fair few friends with bigger boats and they all seem to have problems handling the loads that these craft can deal up. It's a real shame because I'd love the additional space. Below 35' is a bit small for me (I'm 6' 4")  

I would rather say, maximum I have an older boat than most people but the weight of sails, anchors and chain, etc is much the same. At 37ft she is big enough to live aboard for extended periods of time but not so big that very fancy gear is needed. For example, I don't need a power windlass. Also, she is big enough to be able to make an ordinary coastal passage in most weather conditions in a reasonably predictable time scale. i.e. up to F6 we're not bothered, whilst still being small enough to singlehand. A particular pleasure with an old fashioned boat of this size is the ability to carry a decent rigid dinghy on deck (a 9ft sailing dinghy, in our case). I would not want anything bigger, if anything my ideal boat might be a little smaller, say 32ft.  

I totally agree. As an owner of a 39 footer that I live aboard on for about 8 months a year, I have found that she is absolutely the perfect size for me. She is large enough to be very comfortable to live on, but small enough for me to be able to sail and moor single handed if I need to. It is also the smallest size I would like to cross an ocean in or be caught out in a serious blow in, but that is a personal choice. Last point: the prices for mooring in many marinas in the Med goes up rapidly above 40 ft.  

We have a R41 and also tend to live (and work) on her in the summer. We find her a good size, and underway there are no problems with two of us sailing her. She is also docile enough to single hand. There are sometimes problems with close quarter handling - we solved those by wimping out and fitting a bow thruster (I know, I know). This is a boat "of a certain age" and I suspect that a more modern boat would not suffer from the handling problems and would offer more living space. Yer pays yer money....... Cheers Colin  

Well yes, we have 40', liveaboard full time and have more than enough space to carry all we need to be self sufficient for up to 8 months at a time. We do most of our own maintenance and can cope with sailing singlehanded if we need to. If anything though I think I would go for something a bit smaller, around 36'. We are carrying an extra cabin that is usually filled with more stuff than we truly need to cruise ie Christmas tree etc!! Drives the husband mad.  

OK, so as everyone's agreeing with you I hope you won't mind a note of controversy. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif As the owner of a 29 footer who sails weekends and takes a 1-3 week holiday each year I cannot understand why a couple would need anything bigger. For liveaboard, fair enough, it is your house and you can't go somewhere else when it rains but as a pleasure yacht the advantages of smaller are: Cost - we're not all millionaires Harbour handling - I'm not built like Geoff Capes, neither is my wife, but between us it is no problem to manhandle the boat around a dodgy marina berth. 29' and 3 tons is quite tractable. I have seen 40 footers that are unhandleable except with a 50hp engine and a bowthruster. Safety - many large boats have a massive freeboard, so that boarding from a dinghy is hazardous, as is loading goods and chattels. And you can forget trying reach the toerail, let alone climbing back on board from the water without a ladder. We have a freeboard of less than 18" amidships, and in a non-emergency situation it is quite possible to get yourself back on board. I'm sure 3' of freeboard makes for a pleasantly large living space once on board, but I don't live there, I use the boat to visit places, and once in harbour the main task is to get out and explore. The boat is a place to sleep, sip sundowners and store things. And eat, occasionally, . And then there's the hidden cost increases: a 25-30 footer needs no more than 10hp to get around under power, sipping 2-3 pints an hour. Any anchor that can hold you is going to need a windlass (or a visit to the physiotherapist) to get it back in again. Finally racing: I don't, but I am informed by a fellow '29 owner who does that the Liz 29 has a wickedly unfair handicap when the wind perks up, in addition to her innate upwind speed.  

I don't think that you are being controversial, most of the above posters said that their perfect boat would be nearer the 29', apart from long tall me. The only quibble I 'd have with you is the rate of fuel consumption, at 5 knots with 37.5 hp we use the same amount as your goodself rising to a thirsty 4 pints at 6 knots /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif  

[ QUOTE ] at 5 knots with 37.5 hp we use the same amount as your goodself rising to a thirsty 4 pints at 6 knots [/ QUOTE ] that's interesting, fuel consumption is always quoted as being a function of engine horsepower, although logic and the laws of physics would suggest that the number of horses actually engaged is more significant, but I wouldn't have guessed that the same amount of fuel would be used to drive a 20' lwl/3 ton boat and a ?35' lwl boat at the same sub-max. hullspeed speed.  

We live aboard a Sadler 34 for half the year. This is not an enormous boat for her length but there is ample for the two of us. There are significant savings to be had in marina cost bands, which in some places are 10 - 10.99 metres and in others are 10 - 11.99 metres. 10 .99 metres (just over 36 feet) would seem to be close to the ideal size from this point of view, as however hard you try it is necessary to use them sometimes. 20 years ago this size of boat used to be the 'ideal size' but I suppose expectations may now be higher. We find it excellent for sailing, close quarters handling and single-handing. Over the whole season of 2006, our Yanmar 3GM30F engine consumed just over 1 litre of fuel per running hour. We mostly cruise at about 6 knots  

Strange but true, 10 tons, lwl 29', we have a autoprop which has added 20-30% to our range .  

We have a Bav 34 went away for two years on it and we still had a spare room full of junk (well bicycles etc.)  

40 footers perfect! I loved my hillyard which was 40 feet,plenty of water large reliable? engin wheel steering great easy to fit davits or dingy on coach roof bags of stowage space, plenty of deck to wander about at anchor and often a comfortable aft cabin and perhaps as with the hillyard a fixed rain sun roof over a good part of the comfortable cockpit. Downside: Harder to find a place in port can be very expensive and often just to big for small fishing harbours! If i could justify the cost i would still have my hillyard, but im very happy now with a slightly more compact boat!  

40 foot & 10t displacement is probably the upper end that is manageable by a couple without mechanical assistance (powered winches etc). Note the comment on displacement, its not just size, but the weight too. A lot depends on what exactly you want to do with the boat and how many folks will be entertained on board. Net net, 40 foot (35 - 40) is a great size as they are fast enough to give a good long cruising range, large enough inside to be a lot more comfortable than camping, have enough displacement that they don't jerk around in a cop or at anchor and the physical loads aren't too big.  

Achillesheel

The ideal boat is one that is four feet longer than the one you've got. Works for me....  

EXactly /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif No matter what size, those extra 4 feet seem to become highly desireable. Until you size up, when you are still 4 feet short. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif  

My wife and I live for three months a year on our 31ft boat - next year it will be six months - and we find the size perfect for two but a squeeze if we have guests. Smaller boat every time for me for a number of reasons: 1. Reduced costs - berthing, maintenance, replacing gear etc. 2. Manoeuvrability in confined spaces. 3. Modest draught (fin keel). 4. Lighter weight of gear. 5. Easier to find space in congested marinas. 6. Concentrates the mind on making sure the boat is efficiently organised to maximise space. As a rider, I would add that weather plays an important part. If you're going to sail somewhere that's cold and wet, you will spend more time down below. In this case, a bigger boat might be desirable. Whether the boat is 30ft or 40ft isn't going to make any difference to how seaworthy she is - so that's not an issue. If I sailed alone I'd go even smaller - something like a Vancouver 27 or a Twister.  

I'm extremely happy with my First 42s7. She's very comfortable, for up to six people, fast, and rewarding to sail. The one down-side is that single-handing is no longer an option, and I keep feeling tempted by the thought of a cheap little 20 footer for fun runs round the harbour...  

26ft is ideal for us, we have 26ft gear and costs (under £400 for a full standing rigging replacement). A mast we can or could in dire need manhandle down. Engine equipment that can be removed and carried off the boat by two people (lots of swearing and shouting but can be done). Speed comparable to a 40ft boat most of the time. We have the space of a 40-45ft yacht, 3 double berths! Full galley and heads/shower. Storage space that we are not allowed to fill, well, not supposed to. Yet on our 45ft equiv. yacht we have a 10kg anchor which holds firm, a bigger storm anchor which touch wood is never used for purpose. We can even sail with our tender inflated on the foredeck. we draft around 2' 4" and can take to a dry mooring and live and sleep on board as if she were afloat. I keep playing around with selling up and buying a much bigger boat, but then reality hits and I realise that this is the perfect fit for two people sailing and living. I pay for a 26ft yacht on my mooring, may get stung in a marina, but then I am paying for a 39ft yacht which is still a little smaller than I have, so it is win win. Maybe you guys are extending in the wrong direction, what'dya think?  

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How to determine the right size of sailboat for your needs

Choosing the right size sailboat for your sailing adventure is crucial for your comfort, safety, and overall enjoyment. Our comprehensive guide explores the factors to consider when making this important decision.

How to Determine the Right Size of Sailboat for Your Needs

Embarking on a sailing adventure with your family is an exciting and life-changing decision. One of the most important aspects of this journey is choosing the right sailboat to suit your needs. The size of your sailboat will have a significant impact on your comfort, safety, and overall enjoyment of your new lifestyle. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the factors to consider when determining the right size of sailboat for your needs, as well as provide some tips and advice to help you make the best decision for your family.

Table of Contents

Understanding sailboat sizes, sailing experience, intended use, number of crew members, comfort and amenities, storage and maintenance, small sailboats (20-30 feet), medium sailboats (30-40 feet), large sailboats (40-50 feet), extra-large sailboats (50+ feet).

Sailboats come in a wide range of sizes, typically measured in feet from bow to stern (the front to the back of the boat). The size of a sailboat can greatly influence its performance, handling, and the level of comfort it provides. Generally, larger sailboats offer more living space, storage, and amenities, while smaller sailboats are easier to handle, maintain, and store.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Sailboat Size

When determining the right size of sailboat for your needs, there are several factors to consider. These include your budget, sailing experience, intended use, number of crew members, comfort and amenities, and storage and maintenance requirements.

Your budget will play a significant role in determining the size of the sailboat you can afford. Larger sailboats tend to be more expensive, both in terms of initial purchase price and ongoing costs such as maintenance, insurance, and mooring fees. It’s essential to consider not only the upfront cost of the boat but also the long-term expenses associated with owning and operating a sailboat of that size.

Your level of sailing experience will also influence the size of the sailboat that’s right for you. Smaller sailboats are generally easier to handle and maneuver, making them more suitable for beginners or those with limited sailing experience. Larger sailboats can be more challenging to sail and may require a higher level of skill and experience to operate safely and efficiently.

The intended use of your sailboat will also play a significant role in determining the right size for your needs. If you plan to use your sailboat primarily for day sailing or weekend trips, a smaller boat may be more suitable. However, if you intend to embark on long-term cruising or live aboard your sailboat full-time, a larger boat with more living space and amenities will likely be more appropriate.

The number of people who will regularly be on board your sailboat is another important factor to consider. A larger boat will provide more space and comfort for a larger crew, while a smaller boat may be more manageable for a solo sailor or a couple. It’s essential to strike a balance between having enough space for everyone on board while still maintaining a manageable size for sailing and handling.

The level of comfort and amenities you desire on your sailboat will also influence the size of the boat you choose. Larger sailboats typically offer more living space, private cabins, and additional amenities such as a larger galley (kitchen), separate shower and toilet facilities, and more storage space. Smaller sailboats may have more limited amenities and living space, which may be a trade-off you’re willing to make for easier handling and lower costs.

Finally, consider the storage and maintenance requirements of the sailboat size you’re considering. Larger sailboats will require more space for storage, both on land and in the water, and may have higher maintenance costs due to their size and complexity. Smaller sailboats are generally easier to store and maintain, which can be an important consideration if you have limited storage space or a tight budget.

Popular Sailboat Sizes and Their Advantages

Now that we’ve discussed the factors to consider when choosing a sailboat size, let’s explore some popular sailboat size categories and their advantages.

Small sailboats are ideal for those new to sailing or with limited experience. They are easier to handle, more affordable, and require less maintenance than larger boats. Small sailboats are perfect for day sailing, weekend trips, or coastal cruising. However, they may lack the space and amenities desired for long-term cruising or living aboard.

Advantages of small sailboats:

• Easier to handle and maneuver
• More affordable upfront and ongoing costs
• Lower maintenance requirements
• Suitable for day sailing, weekend trips, and coastal cruising

Medium-sized sailboats offer a balance between the ease of handling of smaller boats and the increased space and amenities of larger boats. They are suitable for more experienced sailors and can be used for extended cruising or living aboard. Medium sailboats provide more living space, storage, and amenities than small sailboats, making them a popular choice for families or those planning longer sailing adventures.

Advantages of medium sailboats:

• Good balance between handling and space/amenities
• Suitable for extended cruising or living aboard
• More living space, storage, and amenities than small sailboats
• Popular choice for families or those planning longer sailing adventures

Large sailboats offer even more space, comfort, and amenities, making them ideal for long-term cruising or living aboard. They are best suited for experienced sailors, as they can be more challenging to handle and maintain. Large sailboats provide ample living space, private cabins, and additional amenities such as a larger galley, separate shower and toilet facilities, and more storage space.

Advantages of large sailboats:

• Ample living space, comfort, and amenities
• Ideal for long-term cruising or living aboard
• Best suited for experienced sailors
• Larger galley, separate shower and toilet facilities, and more storage space

Extra-large sailboats are the ultimate in space, comfort, and amenities. They are best suited for experienced sailors with a larger budget, as they can be more challenging to handle and maintain, and have higher upfront and ongoing costs. Extra-large sailboats offer luxurious living spaces, multiple private cabins, and a wide range of amenities to make life aboard as comfortable as possible.

Advantages of extra-large sailboats:

• Ultimate in space, comfort, and amenities
• Luxurious living spaces and multiple private cabins
• Wide range of amenities for maximum comfort
• Best suited for experienced sailors with a larger budget

Determining the right size of sailboat for your needs is a crucial decision that will impact your sailing experience, comfort, and overall enjoyment of your new lifestyle. By considering factors such as your budget, sailing experience, intended use, number of crew members, comfort and amenities, and storage and maintenance requirements, you can make an informed decision about the best sailboat size for your needs. Whether you choose a small, medium, large, or extra-large sailboat, the most important thing is to find a boat that meets your unique needs and allows you to embark on the sailing adventure of your dreams.

My Cruiser Life Magazine

What Size Sailboat Do I Need? Sailboat Size Buying Guide

Picking the size of your first boat is one of the hardest choices you’ll ever have to make, at least in the world of boating. With limited boating experience, how can you possibly know how much is enough and when enough becomes too much? Of course, you want to have room to enjoy the boat like you dream of doing, but you also don’t want to throw money away on a boat that’s too big for you and your family to handle. 

There are many ways to tackle boat shopping, and research is step one. Below are some ways that you can differentiate sailboats of various sizes. It should provide a starting point in your path, but it is by no means the last stop along the way. Before jumping in, you’ll want to get some on-the-water time in these boats to get a feel for what being aboard them is like.

Table of Contents

What are your needs, what are your wants, take the advice of others with a grain of salt, budget constraints, size by sailboat length and width, sailboat sizes by type of boat, sailboat lengths by group, can’t decide what sailboat size consider a buyer’s broker, faqs – sail boat sizes.

Before Boat Shopping, Consider Your Needs and Wants

Boat shopping can be an emotional roller coaster ride as you sort through the dizzying array of boat designs and sailboat sizes. Before you go falling in love with your next floating home or traveling time machine, you should sit down and map out your “needs” and “wants.”

These are the things that are deal-breakers. If a boat doesn’t have it, you’re not even going to look—despite that sweet shear line and beautiful clipper bow. 

The trick with your needs list is to be brutally honest with yourself. But, again, this is challenging if it’s your first boat. It’s tough to do because once you get on a boat, you might start realizing that what seemed like “wants” get elevated to “needs” quickly. 

Of course, the opposite is true, too, since the pendulum swings both ways. Things you think you need fall away and become less important sometimes. 

These are those things that would be great for your new boat to have but that you can likely do without. Thinking about the features you’d like to have will help you narrow down the size of boat you need because it will enable you to shop for the boats that have those items. For example, an island berth in the stateroom might be a want, but when you discover that you need a 42 to 45-foot boat to get that, it may help you narrow your field of potential boat sizes.

After you’ve got your needs and wants lists complete, start seeing what size boats fit your bill. 

You’ll quickly realize that boat size is like flavors in an ice cream shop. If one flavor suited all tastes, they’d probably only sell one. But instead, we live in a world where you can have any flavor you can imagine.

You’ll find lots of stories touting the benefits of minimalist living on a sailboat. Like their land counterparts, the tiny house owners, tiny boat dwellers pride themselves in owning as few possessions as possible and reducing clutter in their lives. Of course, boats are an excellent way to do this, but taking it to the extreme can be very uncomfortable for some people. 

No matter whether you’re coming from an RV, a ranch-style house in the suburbs, or a waterfront mansion on the Intracoastal, moving onto a boat will be a downsize no matter what size boat you choose. It is all relative to your life and your budget. Boats are small living spaces, and buying a tiny one to make a point of it could be very uncomfortable. So instead, you need to find the one that is comfortable to be on.

Of course, there are many downsides to getting too large a boat. Boats cost exponentially more to keep and maintain as they get bigger. A bigger boat has a bigger engine, bigger sails, bigger rigging, and more complex systems that need more maintenance. In addition, it requires a bigger slip at a marina with deeper water access, and it might mean limiting yourself to expensive ocean ports where docks are more expensive, to begin with.  

The point is, no one is going to use your boat like you’re going to use it. You’re buying a boat for a very specific purpose–so don’t let other’s influence your decision too much by telling you how they’d do it.

Your budget will be the limiting factor in your boat purchase. For most used boats sold, the overall size is relative to the overall price.

There are outliers, of course. You can eliminate project boats that lure you in by promising a bigger boat at a small boat price. These will invariably need much more money to refit and prepare than just buying a well-equipped and maintained small boat. 

Similarly, premium brands might get you a smaller boat for a big boat price. Premium brands, however, do hold their value well and are generally better maintained and better built in the first place.

So buying a boat starts with settling on your needs and wants, listening to a few recommendations on the lifestyle, and finally looking at your budget. Together, these things give you a starting point, but it still is not an easy choice. It would be best if you still went see some boats.

Ways to Consider Sizes of Sailboats

• By Saliboat length and width
• By type of boat
• By sailboat group

Boats are measured by their lengths. But many different measurements are used, and makers do not standardize how they make their model numbers. Some use feet, some use meters. Some use waterline length (LWL), some length overall (LOA), and some use length on deck. 

So looking at the model name of a sailboat tells you very little about a boat and how much space it has. To know the actual length, how much you’ll be paying in slip fees, or how much space you’ll have to live in, you need to dive into the numbers carefully.

Besides the specifications, don’t forget that boats are built to do different jobs. A boat designed for offshore sailing tends to have deeper and narrower hulls, smaller portlights, and less living space, while boats for coastal cruising use larger portlights, bigger cockpits, and walk-through transoms. 

You can also differentiate boats of various eras by their sizes. You can’t compare the living space on a classic 1970’s offshore cruiser to what you’d find on a modern cruiser. Designs have changed, and living space has increased. These longer boats look different on the outside—and even more has changed on the inside. 

Even with all these differences to look for, boats are more alike than you might realize. I’ve often noticed that when shopping for sailboats, you can start to group different models that interest you together into categories. 

To some extent, these groupings are generalizations because there will always be specific makes and models that stand out. But the goal here is to demonstrate the sort of boat you could expect to get in each generally accepted group—what it would be suitable for and what living aboard would be like.

Sailboat Groups:

Monohull Cruising Sailboats

Smaller boats less than 30 feet.

Boats under 30 feet are generally suitable for day trips or weekends. As overnight accommodation, they’ll likely feel less like living on a glamorous yacht and more like camping. Most boats 25 feet and longer will have a v-berth and an enclosed head, but cooking space will be cramped, and there will be very little storage for supplies and provisions. A solo sailor with a minimalist lifestyle could live aboard a beamy 22 to 29-foot sized boat with few problems, but a couple would need to have a very healthy relationship to last very long in such a small space.

30 to 34 Feet

At 30 feet or so, a few boats begin providing impressive amounts of interior space, enough so that solo sailors or salty couples could live aboard full time. The Catalina 30 is one such example, a beamy coastal cruiser with a fantastic amount of interior space and an open floor plan that encourages you to spread out.

In offshore vessels, a couple of notable 34-foot vessels have a similar amount of size and can comfortably be outfitted for long trips. But these boats are small by the standards of most modern cruisers, and their owners will have far less room for provisions, water, fuel, and stuff than others. 

35 to 40 Feet

The range between 36 and 38 feet is a crowded market for sailboats since this size range suits many different needs. There begins to be enough space to spread out, and there is often more than one stateroom with private doors. The boat is big enough to outfit and load up for long-distance cruising for a couple. For a family, there’s enough bunks and space to spend a week aboard with few quibbles. The salon has seating to entertain between four and six people comfortably. 

Living on a boat this size is still small, however. The galleys are usually cramped, and there are seldom extras onboard like a separate freezer. Storage is always a challenge, especially if you’re packing for a long journey. And the boat bed is usually a wedge-shaped v-berth like a smaller boat, which will require one person to climb over the other all the time.

40 to 45 Feet

If you want more space to spread out, more privacy, and more storage than you might need, look at boats over 40 feet. 

Two significant upgrades you get in boats this size include an island berth and a separate shower stall. These might seem trivial to small boat shoppers, but these are great upgrades when living aboard full time, especially for older couples. Another plus is the galleys, which have much more useable storage for provisions and counter space for food prep. The salon seating in a boat this size can usually host six to eight people very comfortably.

Boats above 40 feet tend to get more challenging to operate, however. The sail area has a greater force in a breeze and is heavier to raise, the anchoring equipment is larger and requires an electric windlass, you’ll want a diesel generator for power, and docking will likely require a bow thruster. In other words, not only are they larger and more complicated, they become a lot more expensive. Big boats have extensive systems, and the leap into a boat above 42 feet is usually a significant jump in price from 38 feet long.

45 to 50 Feet

By the time you get to larger sailboats over 45 feet, you’ve gone up another notch. Yes, everything is more expensive, but all the luxuries of home come on board. You’ll likely have an (albeit small) washer and dryer. Offshore boats will likely have a watermaker , so you never run out of water. There will be plenty of space for dinghies or paddleboards. There will likely be three completely private staterooms and at least two heads below. The galley will have everything home does—stovetop, oven, microwave, coffee maker, blender, fridge, separate freezer, and anything else you could ask for. 

Boats of this size begin to be limited by where they can travel. Their masts are tall, and they may be limited to open-ocean port cities without fixed bridges. They will also have deeper keels than their smaller counterparts, limiting their ability to travel in shallow water areas. 

50 Plus Larger Boats

A large boat over 50 feet is getting into “yacht” territory. It will likely have every luxury of home, but it will also be full of complicated systems and will be expensive to maintain and store. Boats of this size are popular with couples who often travel with guests or large families who often travel together. 

Small Coastal — Less than 37 Feet

A few cats come in less than 37 feet—one popular model is the Gemini 105MC . These boats are known as coastal cruisers for the most part because they don’t generally hold enough gear for long passages, although many have done them. 

These small catamarans lack the same grandeur of their larger counterparts. They’ll still have large salons with big tables that can seat six or eight people, but the galley is usually down in a hull. There is usually one sizeable queen-sized berth for the owners and smaller staterooms for guests or storage. Many of these boats are powered by outboards or a single inboard motor. 

Small Offshore — 37 to 40 Feet

The most popular boat model in this range is the Lagoon 380 , of which Lagoon built almost 1,000 hulls. There are smaller catamarans available, but this one stands out for its excellent living space and classic “catamaran” layout. Other popular models in this range include the Leopard 38, 39, and 40 (all generations). 

These cats are entry-level for ocean crossing capable cats, and they’re perfectly sized for cruising couples. They’re easy to handle, easy to sail, and easy to fill with stuff. They’ll usually have two queen-sized berths and one or two smaller berths, all in entirely private cabins. There are usually two heads in each hull, and some designs feature separate showers. They’ll sleep three couples comfortably in private staterooms and can store enough provisions for a week of island hopping. For a cruising couple, they can usually store everything they’d need for a long-term voyaging within reason. 

Catamarans in this size have limits, though. They tend to be easily weighed down by too much stuff, and their length causes them to “hobby horse” in choppy seas. Two inboard diesel motors power them, which are more expensive to replace or maintain than outboards.

Midrange Offshore — 41 to 45 Feet

Midrange catamarans above 42 feet tend to perform much better than the shorter boats, without the hobby horsing tendency. They have more room for gear, and they sail faster. This size boat works for couples who often have guests or traveling families. 

These midrange catamarans might look a lot like their smaller sisters, but it is a significant price jump to get into boats of this size. The engines are bigger, the rigging is more stout, and the sails cover more sky. 

Large Offshore — 46 to 50 Feet

These bigger catamarans come from the charter companies and are designed for a crew of two to entertain three or four couples for a week at a time. There’s enough room for all six or eight people to spread out while living with two strangers, all while having privacy and space. The cockpits and salons of a boat this size can host gatherings of 20 or 30 people over for drinks. Anytime one of these cats pulls into the anchor, it’s usually a safe bet where the sundowner get-togethers will always be held.

50 Plus and Larger Vessels

The space that you find on a 50-foot cat is probably equivalent to an 80 or 90-foot monohull. The salon is enormous, and there is usually a flybridge with an entirely separate seating and entertaining area. 

Catamarans this size are large vessels. Their twin engines make maneuvering easy, but like handling larger monohulls, anyone handling this size boat will need to get trained by an experienced captain with great sailing skills before setting out. 

If you haven’t spent much time on boats, nailing the size of the boat you want requires more than just imagination and web articles (as good as those may be)! There is simply no substitute for getting on a boat, for standing inside its cabin, sitting on its settees, and manning its helm. There is no other way to find out what the space is like—is it cozy and warm or cramped and terrifying?

Like buying a home in a strange neighborhood, if you’re struggling with finding the right size boat, consider enlisting the help of a buyer’s agent or buyer’s broker. Yacht brokers work exactly like real estate agents, and it is common to enlist one to help you purchase a boat. In addition, knowledgeable brokers familiar with the type of sailing you want to do can guide you through the search process and get you access to view and step onboard many different types and sizes of sailboat.

What are the sizes of sailboats?

Sailboats come in every shape and size, from single-person Opti sailing dinghies to the largest in the world, the Sailing Yacht A, at 142.8 meters (468.5 feet). Sailboats are generally measured by either their length overall (LOA) or length on deck (LOD). Most private sailboats fall somewhere between 25 and 40 feet long. 

What size sailboat should I buy?

Everyone is looking for something different when they buy a sailboat. Your choice of boat greatly depends on how you want to sail it, where you want to take it, and how much time you’re planning to spend aboard. The best way to get a feel for what size will work for you is to get as much sailing experience as you can before you purchase. Take sailing lessons, stay overnight on boats, and consider a bareboat charter vacation. 

What is a good size sailboat for the ocean?

Finding a good bluewater cruiser to cross oceans is about choosing a reliable and trustworthy design built to a high standard by a reputable boatyard. This is much less about size than many people believe. There are very stout and small boats that have circumnavigated the globe, including the tiny 22-foot Falmouth Cutter or the Flicka 20.  

Most people looking to go voyaging will find that minimalism required to make a small boat like those work to be limiting. While it was once quite common for world cruisers to set out on boats under 35 feet, most people today set off in vessels 40 feet or longer. 

Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay.

Published on April 29th, 2020 | by Editor

Boat Review: Comparing 40 foot cruisers

Published on April 29th, 2020 by Editor -->

Paulo Pernão of Interesting Sailboats takes a look at the new mass production 40-foot sailboat offers: the Bavaria 42 C and the Beneteau Oceanis 40.1:

Judging by the name the Bavaria is not a 40ft but a 42ft and that is misleading. In fact the Oceanis is 1mm longer (hull length) than the Bavaria.

Both boats look good and very successfully manage to disguise the high freeboard and the big interior volume, not to call “fatness”. I would say the Beneteau looks just a bit better, meaning more sportive than the Bavaria, but I admit that some will prefer the more sober and elegant Bavaria look.

Both boats have about the same length being the Bavaria in what regards hull length 1mm shorter (11.98m to 11.99) and about the same LOA, both boats with bowsprit (12.90 to 12.87). The Bavaria bowsprit is optional; it remains to be seen if the one on the Oceanis 40.1 will be standard or also optional.

The Bavaria is beamier (4.29 to 4.18m) with the Oceanis 40.1 slightly less beamier than the previous model, the 41.1, that notwithstanding the name is 1mm shorter in length. The Bavaria has a bigger displacement (9678kg to 8180). This is due partially to the bigger ballast (2698kg to 2007kg with a draft of 2.10m to 2.17).

I confess that this difference in weight is quite intriguing because due to hull building techniques, the Bavaria should be lighter and stronger for the same weight. Bavaria uses vacuum infusion and polyester resins on a sandwich hull having Divinycell foam as core and a structural grid bonded to the hull.

Beneteau uses similar resins but on a monolithic hull with a structural inner moulding bonded to the hull. Only on deck the technologies are similar, using both a sandwich composite using injection technology.

For the same weight the Bavaria should be stronger and considerably stiffer than the Oceanis so it is hard to explain why the Bavaria weights 807kg more (already discounting the difference in ballast weight).

Full report… click here .

Tags: Bavaria 42 C , Interesting Sailboats , Oceanis 40.1 , Paulo Pernão

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Size-Charts.com – When size matters

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Sailboat Size Guide for Beginners and PROs

A sailboat is a type of boat that uses sails to harness the wind and propel it forward. Sailboats have been used for centuries for transportation and recreation, and they come in a variety of sizes and designs. The most basic type of sailboat has a mast, sails, rigging, and a hull (skip straight to the Sailboat Size Chart ).

The mast is a tall pole that supports the sails, and the sails are usually made from cloth. The rigging is a system of ropes and pulleys that helps to raise and lower the sails. The hull is the body of the boat, which provides buoyancy and keeps the boat from sinking.

Sailboats are powered by wind, which is caught by the sails and used to push against the water. This action propels the boat forward. Sailboats can be sailed alone or with a crew, and they can be used for racing, cruising, or other activities.

This guide is not about sailboats though, but all about sailboat sizes. So let’s get right into it.

Jump right into the Frequently Asked Questions

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Sailboat Size Table of Contents

The importance of sailboat size, what is a good size for a sailboat, sailboat size chart (by sailing class), what is a good size sailboat for the ocean, frequently asked questions.

Related: Surfboard Size Guide and Dimensions

For those who love to sail, the sizing of the sailboat is critical. The process, though daunting, will turn out satisfying when you’re able to find a boat that’s most compatible with your needs.

There are different sailboat sizes curated for different situations such as the distance to be covered, the number of passengers, the budget, and preferences that come into play when looking out for a sailboat. 

For whichever your needs, you want to end up with a vessel that’s going to assure you safety over the waters and at least remain within the sailing or cruising safety index. Hence, the begging question – how do you find a sailboat size that’s big enough without being too big?

We seek to answer all the whys and why-nots you might have regarding sailboat sizes. We also seek to make it easy for you to determine a vessel that you not only need but also one that’s in line with your taste.

Related: Jet Ski Size: Which Size Should You Go For?

A good sailboat is at least 30 ft. Such a boat is seaworthy, comfortable, and can be sailed on without breaking the bank. It is one of the smallest sail sizes that can go for long distances.

However, most sailors prefer between 35 and 45ft sailboat sizes. A good sailboat for your family should fall somewhere between 30 and 40ft.

A 30ft sailboat is as good as a 40ft and 50ft boat in many ways as long as comfort is overlooked. For its ability to go for very long distances, a 30-foot sailboat is one of the smallest sailboats that sail around the world.

However, Alessandro di Benedetto’s story of circumnavigating the world using his 21-foot sailboat says it all. He broke the world record for using the smallest yacht to sail around the world, showing that sailboats are more powerful than we know. 

Learn more about how to pick the right size sailboat (video)

Related: Kayak Paddle Size by type and height (size charts included)

Related: Ski pole size advice with easy to use size charts

A 30-foot sailboat is a good place to start. This size is good enough to carry out the downwind sailing to the destination. The boat is also easy to manage during waves and has some room to store cargo and food in the event that the sailing takes days or weeks.

A 30-foot boat is among the smallest sailboats for ocean crossing because of the dire demands of long sails such as comfort and storage.

Moreover, the bigger the boat the faster the sails for its ability to tackle high waves, just to mention. The best size sailboat for ocean crossing ranges from 35 – 45ft. 

Check out this video to learn more about sailboat sizes

What is the minimum size sailboat for open ocean sailing.

The 27-foot boat is the minimum sailboat to cross the Atlantic, according to the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers. While this site is not as popular as bigger boats of 38 feet, it is something you can bank on for open-ocean sailing on a budget.

Most people swear by bigger boats that will make it easier and less of a hassle to sail downwind. 

Even smaller boats have managed to cross the Atlantic such as the renowned Tinkerbelle (13.5 foot). The boat soared into history books for being the world’s smallest sailboat to cross the Atlantic Ocean in 1965.

Is a 30-foot sailboat big?

A 30-foot sailboat is big enough for a couple setting out for a long distance. Many sailboat brands of this size make it comfortable for two people. The boat has a sleeping space, toilet, shower, food storage, sink, and stove that make it comfortable for two people.

In simple terms, the smaller the number of sailors the better the sailing experience on a 30-foot boat.

For instance, a 20ft sailing boat is big enough for one person but can also be used by a family of six, of course, depending on the brand and its sturdiness.

Can one person sail a 30-foot boat?

Yes, a 30-foot boat can be steered by one person. In such a scenario, it’s important to prep for the sail as much as possible as you will be forced to skip some activities.

With the right boat size, automation of systems that are in the best condition, enough sail area, and properly operating assistive equipment sailing a 30-foot boat can be less taxing than you think.

Several other factors come into play such as experience and physical fitness. A sailor may need to be agile and exploit their sailing skills especially when things go wrong.

Can you single-hand a 40-foot sailboat?

It is very possible to single-hand a 40-foot or even bigger sailboat. This calls for the right measures to be in place. If looking to sail solo, try going for shorter distances as you gain the courage and skills to manage the vessel above the waters for longer distances.

Otherwise, such a boat size can be challenging to single-hand if you’re doing it for the first time.

Moreover, ensure that the weight of the cargo is not beyond 90 tons, to make it easier to steer on high waves. 

How many people can a 30-foot boat fit?

A 30-foot boat will accommodate a maximum of 11 passengers without any stability problems. However, this is advisable for short distances because of comfort issues.

The boat is among the smallest sailboats around the world as brands prefer bigger vessels, speaking of the growing demand for them today.  

To determine a boat’s passenger capacity, multiply the length of the boat by its width then divide the product by 15. This is especially important if the boat lacks a capacity plate.

While different sailing yacht sizes have different sailing experiences, small doesn’t always mean incapable. Small boats are cheaper than big ones because of their speed and ease of steering during harsh weather conditions.

Solo sailing is not advisable for long sails because of the physical demands to steer the boat through to its destination. 

Above all, sailboat size is an important consideration when purchasing a sailboat. The wrong size sailboat can lead to disappointment and wasted money. Please use this guide to be sure you are getting the right size for the purpose before you hit the waters.

Any questions? Well, we are always happy to help. So please use the comments area to share your questions. 

Picture in this post is by Kristel Hayes on Unsplash

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• Sailboat Reviews

Do You Really Need a Bigger Boat?

Questions arise at cruising seminars and it’s always encouraging when attendees provide the answers. In one such case, a young couple asked how much a good cruising boat would cost? A more seasoned old salt, hiding in the back row responded, “all you have to spend.” His wit sparked a lengthy discussion focused on why bigger budgets almost always lead to bigger boats—it’s a topic worth exploring.

This bigger-is-better trend has accelerated in recent years. When my wife and I sailed around the world, the stereotypical cruising sailboat was a 35–40-foot sloop, cutter or ketch sailed by a two-person crew. In those days, boats tended to be older and crews were younger. Today, boats are bigger, newer, and it’s the sailors who have grown a bit older. Demographic trends show that fewer young sailors are sidelining careers and setting sail. But there’s a boom in retirees going cruising that has led to a rethink in cruising boat design along with how voyages are undertaken.

The trend is toward bigger boats, with more just-like-home accommodations. These new cruisers are equipped with power winches, bow thrusters and automated sail handling gear. Autopilots and networked navigation systems are linked to global communications equipment. And there’s often a weather router in daily contact, plus a sat phone speed dial link to the mechanic back home. Passage makers head off together and voyages are as well-scripted as a Manhattan Gala.

Builders, advertisers, and brokers have embraced the new trend and launched a ‘bigger is better’ cruising campaign. For those with the bucks to buy and maintain these boats and the skills to handle super-sized sail plans, there’s some validity to the claim. But embedded in this avalanche of enthusiasm is some very misleading spin. Of considerable concern are the ads that dub 60-65 footers with 10-foot draft, 18-foot beam and mainsails larger than 1,000 sq. ft., as “user-friendly” sailboats, easily handled by a shorthanded crew. Larger cruising boats, brimming with automation, certainly can make life aboard more convenient and comfortable. But the bottom line for those at sea remains the same: it revolves around the necessity to match sail area with the ever-changing mood of the wind and the sea. When control is lost, bad things can happen, and the following account spells out a very tragic encounter.

TRAGEDY AT SEA

Karl Volker and his wife, Annamarie Frank were ‘sailing bloggers’ who started living their dream the day they moved aboard their 67-foot CNB sloop called Escape. The boat was advertised as a luxurious home afloat—an easy-to-handle, high-performance cruiser. Three years later, the long term liveaboards had sailed Escape from Germany to the Caribbean. But on a squall-ridden night in June of 2022, while on passage from Bermuda to Nova Scotia, Karl and Annamarie encountered the unexpected. They were sailing with two additional crew, chosen from an online crew service website. Both had joined Escape in Bermuda the day before departure. It had been a typical early June weather pattern, following the weather router’s forecasts, right up until the third night out when the Gulf Stream lived up to its ill-tempered reputation.

Caught over canvased, the “all hands on deck” call came a little too late and the attempt to furl the genoa and tuck a second reef to the mainsail failed. Power winches and in-boom furling, meant to expedite the process, didn’t guarantee a favorable outcome. As the reefing effort began, the person on the helm turned the big sloop into the wind. The skipper was still reefing the jib and the person handling the mainsheet failed to trim the slack. This resulted in a viciously flogging mainsail propelling a heavy boom back and forth across the cockpit.

Annamarie stepped into the arc of the careening boom and was struck by the mainsheet and knocked to the deck unconscious. Karl rushed to her aid, and he was also hit by the flailing mainsheet with enough force to cause a compound leg fracture. The crew fought to get the vessel under control, render first aid and make contact with the US Coast Guard. The latter resulted in a daring helicopter rescue, that involved mid-route, shipboard refueling aboard a US Coast Guard Cutter. Tragically, the physical damage caused by the blunt force trauma had taken its toll. Upon reaching the cutter, Annemarie was pronounced dead, and Karl succumbed to his injuries on route to the hospital.

In the months that followed, a variety of experienced sailors weighed in on the cause of the tragedy. One of the most reoccurring themes revolved around why the crew of Escape used head-to-wind reefing. Most who commented, pointed out that turning into the wind is the last thing you want to do. It results in a flogging mainsail that can cause the boom to lash back and forth with lethal consequences, especially if there’s slack in the mainsheet. Combine this with the way a head-to-wind vessel pitches like a bucking bronco and one can see why it’s anything but the optimum angle for reefing. In the article on page 16, we take a close look at reefing alternatives and what options make most sense.

SIZE MATTERS

In the wake of this tragedy, we feel it’s time to take a close look at sailboat buying and the quest for the biggest boat you can afford. A key operating principal in the boat-buying process revolves around the assumption that vessel size needs to dovetail with crew competency. In the old days, the gentlemen of yachting had the good sense to hire a crew to handle or at least augment the boat handling aboard their classic yachts.

As the Corinthian era evolved, a sail-it-yourself ethos took shape. It was an ethos that led to smaller rather than larger vessels, that could be sailed by shorthanded crews. An interesting subset of sailors evolved. Those captains of industry who still favored larger yachts leveraged their management skills, inviting other capable yachtsmen and their athletic offspring to spend summers racing and cruising. This ensured that the big boats had enough talent to cope with the big challenges always found at sea. Names like Kialoa, Ondine, Boomerang, Running Tide and many others replaced the older professionally-crewed schooners.

DEFINING SIZE

Small, mid-size, and large cruising sailboat designations are harder to designate than hat sizes. This stems from the fact that multiple measurements play a competing role, especially when it comes to defining what fits into the mid-sized sailboat category. It takes a tape measure, weight scale and means of measuring volume to accurately answer the “small, medium, large” question. For example, a lighter, narrower beam, lower volume 35-footer can be a good candidate for the small cruiser category. While a beamy, heavier displacement, higher-volume 32-foot sailboat, such as the venerable Westsail 32, may qualify as a midsize cruiser. What both small and mid-size cruisers have in common is they are both great platforms for double handed sailing. This trait, until today, tended to separate them from larger cruising sailboats.

Another telltale factor resides in how boats of each of these groups are fitted out. For example, one has to look far and wide to find a bow thruster on a boat in the small cruiser category. But roller furling headsails have become quite ubiquitous. Diesel heat and air conditioning, once a landmark of bigger sailboats/yachts, are now a growing fancy among upper end mid-sized cruisers. Reliable hermetically sealed, low current draw compressors have made refrigeration a reality even aboard the smallest cruisers. This wide use of technology, especially networked electronics, furling systems, autopilots, and more has simplified sailing, but also carries a significant price tag. However, there’s still some interest in keeping things simple and some astounding voyages have been made in smaller, less complicated sailboats.

Historically, the midrange mainstream of reliable cruising boats included a good sampling of cruiser/racers and racer/cruisers that efficiently wended their way around the world. The Ericson 41 we sail is a classic example of a midsize production FRP sloop that was up to the task. One of the first dedicated cruisers was the Valiant 40 a Robert Perry design that collectively accrued more sea miles than most other production cruisers. Part of the reason for the boat’s popularity was its combination of ability under sail and usable liveaboard interior. Eventually, pressure for a commodious aft cabin and more amenities bumped out the beam and increased the displacement of many midsize cruisers. Today’s midsize passage makers have more sail area, more auxiliary horsepower and cost five times as much as a Cal 40 that won more than its fair share of ocean races and has cruised far and wide.

THE 60-PLUS CLUB

There’s been a growing interest in shorthanded cruising aboard larger and larger sailboats—a trend that’s both encouraging and worrisome. Part of the problem stems from the accomplishments of singlehanders aboard 60 foot plus sailboats surfing the two story high Southern Ocean swells. These pro athletes have skills, fitness levels and seamanship awareness that go far beyond that of the average sailor. But when seen from a distance, their agility and sail handling skills make fast passages look all too easy.

There’s also a financial hurdle that’s limited entry into the big league of super-sized cruising. Larger sailboats have long been the domain of one-off designers and custom builders. It’s been a niche industry that has created a legacy of fine yachts. However, the abiding principal has been large sailboats require larger crews and pros should be hired when necessary.

Voyagers like Steve and Linda Dashew have changed the paradigm. They are strong advocates of shorthanded big boat cruising and make it clear what talents are needed. They advocate weather awareness and the importance of keeping all systems in good working order. The Dashew’s pioneered a line of big cruising boats to be sailed by shorthanded crews. The Sundeer and Deerfoot lineup featured utilitarian exteriors, functional sail handling systems and sumptuous interiors. Their goal was to deliver a sixty-foot plus long-term liveaboard that was ready cross oceans efficiently.

THE SMALL-BOAT CROWD

Tim and Pauline Carr took the other tack. They were strong advocates of keeping the boat small and the systems simple. They sailed their 28-foot Falmouth Quay Punt, Curlew, built in 1898, all over the world, including a junket down to Antarctica. They did so with neither engine nor electronics, but this doesn’t mean that a small, old wooden sloop is best the bet for every cruiser.

Dave and Jaja Martin, also small boat adventurers, opted for a fiberglass boat four-feet shorter than Curlew. Dave became a gifted shipwright through a learn-by-doing apprenticeship. When he was in his early twenties, he took over the Cal 25 that and his dad had double-handed from Seattle to the Caribbean.

Lenore and I met Dave while cruising in the Bahamas and were captivated by his tenacity and plans for adventure. He took me up on an offer to sail up to Long Island Sound to work in a boatyard I was running. It was a job that would also give him a chance to refit his tired Cal 25 and outfit for further adventure.

It’s not easy to turn a fantasy into reality, especially when it involves a tight budget and a tired little boat. But Dave defied the odds. His 40/40 plan was to work for the boatyard 40 hours a week and work on his own boat 40 hours a week. He lived in the loft above the carpentry shop and held to his plan. During his two years in residence, he de-rigged and dismantled the boat, reinforced the hull and deck, laminated floor frames and stringers, rebuilt the rudder and rerigged the mast—renaming her Direction.

The second spring arrived, and we were launching clients 30, 40 and 50 footers, gleaming with fresh varnish and all shades of LPU paint. Most were tethered to moorings just as their predecessors had been for more than a century. Finally, a highly modified Cal 25 took to the water, dwarfed by the size and prestige of the surrounding fleet. As opening day revelry brought the season to life, one of the smallest boats in the bay, almost invisible to onlookers, set sail on a voyage that would circle the globe.

Dave Martin had gotten only one thing terribly wrong—single handing was not his preferred routine. In the Caribbean, he had met a kindred spirit with a familiar sense of adventure, and the shipmates were soon to be a married couple. In New Zealand they had their first child, a second in Australia, and with four aboard, Jaja and Dave sailed Direction westward. The Martins eventually rounded the Cape of Good Hope, welcoming the trade wind reach across the Atlantic and a return to the US to rebuild a 32- foot-steel sloop and set off on a family cruise of the Atlantic’s high latitudes and the Arctic.

Today, the Martins live ashore in Maine where Dave and Jaja built a house and a Wharram catamaran for local cruising. Their daughter, Holly Martin has singlehanded her 27-foot sloop Gecko from Maine to French Polynesia, carrying on a family tradition.

Small cruising boats can still deliver big rewards, their upside includes easy handling, less time consumed with maintenance and lower costs. Yes, there are do-without factors but as one backpacker/mountaineering friend said, “that 20-something footer seems the lap of luxury to me!”

Mid-sized cruising boats, remain a mainstay of the sailboat market. Over the last several decades, these vessels have significantly increased their interior volume. The average length has remained in the 35-45 foot range, but hull shapes have changed to enhance aft cabin accommodations. In many cases this beamier hull shape has been merged with a shoal draft keel. However when such a design heels, the wide beam causes the keel’s lateral plane’s lift to greatly diminish and hinder windward performance.

Those intent on sailing long passages should consider performance under sail as well as accommodations below and recognize the tradeoffs. Deeper draft improves windward performance, and a displacement/ballast ratio of 120 degrees or greater will insure a rapid recovery from a knockdown.

In the midst of writing this article, my attention was drawn to a front-page sailing story in the mainstream press. It was another disaster at sea account, but fortunately, this time it had a happy ending. A two-person crew, along with a miniature poodle, had set sail from Oregon Inlet, NC aboard a Catalina 30. It was Dec 3, 2022 and the crew’s planned passage to Florida kicked off with the rounding of Cape Hatteras, prime time for bad weather during winter. The vessel was dismasted, ran out of fuel and lay a hull for ten days as two severe cold fronts and deep low pressure systems tormented the little sloop. Finally, a tanker spotted them 214 miles off the Delaware coastline and rescued the crew and their poodle.

Yes, there’s a host of safety questions pertaining to time of year, equipage, and lack of communications gear, but one thing is quite evident. The crew of the Catalina 30 were in violent wintertime conditions, lost their rig, but the little sloop remained afloat and the crew survived. It was a different story in June aboard the 67-foot sloop Escape, a much larger and theoretically safer vessel. In that instance the owners perished attempting to regain control of the mainsail. In both cases, missteps and weather volatility turned their passage into a survival encounter.

Navigation and Marine Weather Instructor at the Annapolis School of Seamanship and PS contributing editor Ralph Naranjo is the author of The Art of Seamanship: Evolving Skills, Exploring Oceans, and Handling Wind, Waves and Weather.

The old salt’s advice that “a good cruising boat will cost you all you have to spend,” is actually a bit misleading, because there will be plenty of ongoing expenses that need to be covered. Some of these reoccur like clockwork, others are far less predictable. In both cases, contingency funds are an important part of any boat budget.

As one might expect, smaller, less complicated sailboats are less costly to maintain than larger boats with more complicated systems. In some cases, expenses are linear. Good examples are slip fees, haul-store-launch charges, and bottom painting invoices. But when it comes to more complex projects, terms like “time and materials” and “it looks like a labor intensive job” take on special meaning to every boat owner. Experienced skippers seek quotes on major work and experienced boatyard managers understand that the full extent of certain repairs can’t be fully discerned until considerable disassembly is carried out. This means that a lot rides on boatyard–boat owner communication and trust.

The do-it-yourself shortcut is a feasible alternative for those with the skill, time, and inclination to tackle boat projects themselves. Those seeking a painless shortcut in lieu of paying hefty boatyard bills should beware of what projects they undertake. Spending inordinate amounts of time making something more broken is never a good tack. And it often ends up being more costly in the long run. That said, those skilled with hand tools, in possession of the right manuals and having previously tackled similar jobs are usually capable to doing much of their own boat’s maintenance, especially aboard a smaller sailboat with less complex systems.

The attached table profiles a sampling of some of the more common sailboat expenses. It reveals how bigger boats create larger holes in the water in which one’s finances can rapidly disappear. One thing that is missing, however, is the net effect of rapidly rising labor rates. Take for example the way the great surge in technology is encouraging sailors to climate control cabins and make their boats more complex and energy consuming than ever. A case in point involves the new owners of a nine-year-old 47 foot multihull who’s equipment adding appetite overwhelmed the factory installed electrical system.

When all was said and done, the failed original DC electrical system was replaced with all-new components and a rewired, charging and electrical distribution system. Current was stored in an extra heavy-duty bank of Lithium batteries required to run an array of amenities.

The price for the refit and upgrade approached $70,000. Cruise plans had to be delayed and the question that lingers is how much shoreside lifestyle does a sailboat really need? There are many answers to that query, but for those who seek a less complex solution, consider the slogan of small-boat sailing icons Lynn and Larry Pardey, authors of “The Self-sufficent Cruiser,” who urge sailors to “Go small, go now.”

The consensus among experienced offshore sailors is that the preferred point of sail for reefing a boom-furling mainsail is a reach. This entails bearing away onto a close or beam reach, easing the traveler, and adjusting the mainsheet to depower the mainsail so it’s spilling breeze but not flogging. How close or deep a reach depends on the sweep-back angle of the spreaders, sea state, and the furling system itself. It’s essential to hold a steady course and keep just enough tension on the main sheet to maintain a mostly depowered mainsail. Next, ease the halyard and rotate the in-boom furling mandrel in unison, insuring an even and compact furl.

Prior to reefing, make sure that the boom-to-mast angle meets manufacturer’s recommendations, usually around 87 degrees. Also, overtrim the headsail so it will deliver less drive and more roll dampening effect. During the reef, continue ensure that the halyard release rate keeps pace with the rate of the mandrel rotation. Note how the sail luff is layering, and if necessary, slightly change the boom angle to keep the luff from crowding the gooseneck or moving too far aft. This approach to reefing lessens the apparent wind and dampens the vessel’s pitch and roll. It also moves the boom and main sheet tackle away from the center of the cockpit.

As mentioned above, it’s time to abandon the idea that reefing the mainsail requires a turn into the wind. Doing so eliminates the stability derived from a trimmed headsail and a depowered but non-flogging mainsail.

Turning head-to-wind causes the vessel to increase its pitch and roll, while at the same time making mainsail control much more difficult. This isn’t just the idle opinion of a few old salts, it’s the dogma spelled out in the manuals written by the experts at Forespar’s Liesurefurl, GMT, Schaefer and other boom furling manufacturers.

The big debate revolves around how deep a reach provides the best angle of attack for in-boom furler reefing, or for that matter all reefing. Those who favor a broad reach like the way it eliminates pounding into a seaway. However, it also requires more mainsheet easing and a wider boom angle. And as the halyard is eased and the leech falls off, there’s more chance that the sail will press against the spreaders, especially if they are swept back, as in a backstayless B&R rig common on Hunter models.

An attentive person on the helm plays a vital role during the deep-reach reefing process. As the boat accelerates down wave faces, the apparent wind comes forward if the helmsperson bares away they must be ready for the apparent wind to go even further aft as boat speed decreases. To deep a reach raises the specter of a jibe during reefing which will add an addition layer of woe. Those who reef on a close or beam reach seem to have the right compromise.

Good steering compensates for these shifts and is part the reefing process, as is the dexterity a helmsperson displays in avoiding a wave induced jibe.

RELIEVING BACKWINDED MAIN

A preventer can eliminate the hazard linked to the boom crossing the deck during an accidental jibe. But it can also leave a crew, engaged in the middle of a mainsail reefing effort, caught in a tricky back-winded fire drill. In essence, a jibe with a preventer set puts a sailboat into a pinned down position with the backwinded jib and mainsail held to windward by the preventer. This is when the crew realizes that the preventer now handles as much load as the mainsheet did a few minutes ago, and it’s doing so at a 1-to-1 ratio rather than the usual 4-to-1 reduction that a mainsheet creates. It’s also when the crew fully appreciates having secured the preventer to as large a winch as possible (see “ The Best Prevention is a Preventer ,” see PS July 2017.

A preventer can keep an unintentional jibe from becoming a lethal threat to the crew, but only if it includes an effective means of handling a backwinded mainsail and a boat pinned over on its rail. In such circumstances, the best preventer option is one that has been led from the boom end to a block at the bow and returned to a big winch in the cockpit. This single part line now holds the same force once handled by a multipart mainsheet. By securing the preventer tail to a large cockpit winch, the preventer can be safely eased and the vessel brought back under control.

Other options, such as attaching a mid-boom, cam cleat equipped, block and tackle to the rail may work to keep the boom from careening across the deck. But the real challenge is easing the back winded mainsail and getting the boat back on its feet.

There’s a love-hate relationship apparent when talk turns to topping lifts. Advocates love the aid they offer when reefing a mainsail. Slab reefing is expedited by over tensioning the “topper”, tipping up the boom end and making it much easier to set the new leech cringle. Boom furling systems gain a welcome means of boom angle tweaking when a topping lift is part of the running rigging.

Opponents hate the flailing line as it endlessly assails the leech of the mainsail. On long voyages the line can chafe seam stitching and damage the sailcloth. The greater the mainsail’s roach, the more problematic this issue becomes. Some rig a snap shackle to the topping lift that allows it to be quickly removed and clipped to a pennant attached to the stern rail, ready to attach when needed. In such cases, a mechanical or hydraulic vang/boom support is also used to keep the outboard boom end from dropping into the cockpit if the halyard breaks or is inadvertently released. Traditionally a boom gallows added this rollbar-like protection.

Another valuable reefing tactic of value to shorthanded crews is utilizing a heave-to position to tuck in a reef. The opposing back winded headsail and rudder turned in opposition leaves the vessel sedately crabbing sideways with a slow forereaching motion. The mainsail sheet is eased to the point of spilling breeze but not flogging and reefing is easy to accomplish. Once all is tucked and tightened, release the backwinded headsail and you’re back underway.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

in the example in the article where the smaller boat was de-masted in bad weather, and the sailors and their dog survived until they were spotted and rescued, is there an implication that if a larger boat were de-masted and in the same unfortunate predicament, that the size of the larger boat would be problematic vs the smaller hull? As a newbe and potential passage maker any thoughts would be appreciated.

I have a “wrinkle” in the top end of my roller-furling mainstay. I believe it was caused by not having the furler tight to the top of its run. It snagged up on me while trying to furl for the approaching Nicole last fall. I eventually had to cut away my old genoa which was flogging around like a wild stallion. After taking down the mast for winter boat storage, I noticed the damage to the stay. I will have to replace it this spring. Any advice? P.S. My boat is an extensively renovated Hunter 27 and the roller furler is a Pro-furl.

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The Largest Sailboat You Should Get For Your Solo Adventure

I still remember the day like it was yesterday when I asked myself: “How big of a sailboat can one person handle?” I had absolutely no idea and didn’t even know how to sail back then. Many years later, I’ve got the experience and knowledge to answer this question for you in detail.

A beginner should stay below 40 feet until they get some experience. With moderate experience, one person can comfortably handle a 45-foot sailboat. To exceed 45 feet, you want to have a high level of experience and a boat with systems to assist you in handling your sails and equipment.

As with everything else related to sailing, the ability to handle a sailboat depends significantly on your sailing experience, physical fitness, and how the boat you want to sail is set up.

Determining the size of sailboat you can handle depending on experience and sailing systems

There is a massive variety of sailboats; many are well suited for single or short-handed sailing, while others require a crew to be sailed safely. One thing to also keep in mind is that even when sailing as a couple, you’ll be in situations where only one of you will be available to handle the sailboat.

Especially if you plan on doing extended sailing with frequent overnight passages. There may be situations where your better (or worse) half is sick or unable to help in a tense situation, and you’re on your own to handle the boat. So please do yourself a favor and be realistic with yourself and your capabilities before choosing the size of your boat.

Can you reef a massive sail by yourself in a sudden 50-knot storm in the middle of the night? Only you know the answer to that after you’ve tried it. Since we’re all different in our level of fitness and capability, I’ll keep the average person as a reference throughout this article, and you’ll have to consider where you stand in relation to this before making a choice.

Right, with the pep-talk done, let’s move on!

After chatting with several oldtimers with half a lifetime of bluewater sailing, we all came to the same conclusion. The table below shows approximately how big of a sailboat one person with good physical fitness can handle depending on configuration and experience level:

Critical elements to consider for handling a large sailboat alone

This article refers to sizes above 45 feet when discussing large sailboats. Once we get past 45 feet, we reach a point where the sail area is close to or bigger than 500 ft 2 or 45 m 2 on a modern sloop. It takes serious physical strength to handle sails of this size manually. Ketch-rigged sailboats spread the total sail area over an additional mizzen sail to allow easier sail handling of the individual sails.

Handling big sails is just one task that gets increasingly difficult on bigger boats. Your lines and equipment are more substantial in size and heavier as well. Leading all the lines back to the cockpit makes for an easier short-handed setup and keeps you in the safety of the cockpit in most situations.

Another thing worth mentioning is the price tag for buying and maintaining a large boat. The cost increases exponentially with size, so I recommend purchasing the smallest boat you are comfortable being on and the biggest you feel comfortable sailing and operating within a price range you can afford.

Most people looking to sail solo will end up with a sailboat in the 35-45-foot size range, especially if they plan to spend extended time onboard. You may be looking at smaller vessels too, but remember that you’ll sacrifice more space and speed the smaller the boat you choose.

There are many good reasons why you want to go bigger as well, and you should know that you definitely can. Just consider what can be challenging on a larger boat versus a smaller one and understand what you get yourself into.

Finding the right size range is all about the balance between what your capabilities can handle, the size of your cruising budget, and your preference for comfort and amenities onboard.

Let us have a look at some of the tasks we need to be able to handle on a sailboat alone, which might be more demanding on a larger boat.

By the way, I wrote an article about the ideal size for a liveaboard sailboat that is more relevant for those who won’t be sailing solo,

Operational tasks at sea

• Hoist, lower, furl, and reef sails in various conditions
• Trimming the sails
• Steering the boat
• Navigating in various conditions

Managing the sails can be solved in a couple of ways. If you choose a ketch, you’ll have less sail area to handle at a time at the expense of an additional mizzen sail. Many modern sloop-rigged sailboats above 45 feet have electrical winches, making hoisting, furling, and trimming sails easier. Electrical winches are usually reliable and can still be operated manually in case of failure.

Even below this size range, most modern boats have an autopilot, making it dramatically easier to handle the boat alone. A good autopilot is said to be the most valued crew member onboard, and I agree. My autopilot even has a name; Raymond is a trusted companion who hasn’t disappointed me. ( Yet, knock on wood )

The problem when relying on electric systems is that we might be in big trouble if they fail, which is an essential factor to consider and make a backup plan for. When you have years of sailing experience, you know how to handle situations well and what you can do to make things simpler for yourself.

Think about this: Can you manually reef your massive sails if the wind suddenly increases to 50 knots?

And yes, that does happen offshore.

Operational tasks going to port or mooring

• Dropping and lifting the anchor
• Maneuver the boat in and out of a marina or port
• Tie the boat to the dock or pontoon

On a 45-55 foot sailboat, you will typically have an anchor that weighs 30-45 kg or 65-100 lbs. That anchor is attached to a 10-12mm chain. If you anchored at a 10m water depth, you probably have at least 50 meters of chain out.

The weight of 12mm chain is about 3.4 kg or 7.5 lbs per meter. This means you have 170kg or 375 lbs of chain in the water plus the weight of your anchor. Pulling that weight up from the seabed is a challenging workout that makes you want to rely on your windlass. But windlasses can fail, and I speak from experience.

I have pulled my 25 kg Rocna together with 75kg of chain off the seabed a few times, and I sweat at the thought of handling anything larger. On a smaller boat, the ground tackle weighs a lot less and is more manageable for one person.

Docking a large sailboat

Maneuvering any size sailboat into port is nerve-wracking for most people their first few times. I remember being scared to death my first few times docking by myself, and I didn’t have a bow thruster to assist. You won’t be able to push or single-handedly move a sailboat above 45 foot by yourself if there is a little bit of wind.

Modern vessels of this size usually have a bow thruster, making it significantly easier to maneuver the vessel into tight areas and marinas. My friend, who has been sailing his entire life, lives aboard and sails his close to 55 foot sailboat. His boat has a bow and stern thruster, making it easier to maneuver than my 40 foot boat!

Now, most boats don’t have that luxury, and a lot of practice will be necessary for getting confident in and out of a marina. NauticEd has a course on maneuvering by engine and docking that you may want to look at here .

Conclusion: Is it realistic to sail a large sailboat by yourself?

With a decent level of experience and a well-equipped sailboat adequately set up for single-handed operation, it is absolutely possible to handle a large sailboat alone. I know several sailors who sail large vessels by themselves.

As long as you have some sailing experience and good physical fitness, are aware of your limitations, and have a decent plan in case of equipment failure, you will, in most everyday situations, be able to handle a 50 foot sailboat and possibly larger alone. If you plan on buying a large sailboat, remember to consider the factors we have looked at in this article and be realistic about your budget.

There are just as many people upgrading to a bigger boat as downgrading to a smaller one. What size sailboat is right for you comes down to your needs, experience level, and budget. Take your time to make the right decision if you want to buy a boat, and be realistic about your capabilities and experience before you take on the task of sailing a large sailboat by yourself.

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Skipper, Electrician and ROV Pilot

Robin is the founder and owner of Sailing Ellidah and has been living on his sailboat since 2019. He is currently on a journey to sail around the world and is passionate about writing his story and helpful content to inspire others who share his interest in sailing.

I am writing a novel in which knowledge of sailing and sailboats would be helpful. Would you be available to answer an occasional technical question via email? The setting is primarily the Gulf of Mexico, Lake Pontchartrain, and the Mississippi Gulf Coast, but will include time in the Bahamas and Caymans. The time is 1964-65.

Hoping to hear from you, and thanks.

Send me an email and I’ll do my best to assist you!

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Class 40 Sailing: First Impressions

• June 2nd, 2016
• Sailing Yacht

Now that some 4 weeks passed by since I´ve had my fist real offshore sailing experience with a Class 40 sailing yacht and with having gained some distance to that trip I am trying to sum up my experiences and bundle testimonies of my fellow crew mates to have a thorough review of what it is like to sail a Pogo 40. You may read the cruise report of the first leg here  and of the second leg under Gennaker here  .

First of all: Looking at the boat is an experience by itself. Being accustomed to the view onto classic yachts, seeing this compact, flat hull with its extra-wide stern is amazing. This hull seemingly promises to go fast by its looks alone. My heartbeat went faster upon arrival at the mooring and it was the same with the other crew members. Let´s board the ship and have a look around.

Rigging and Cockpit Layout of a Class 40

A Class 40 is made for single handed and double handing racing. That means first of all that all ropes and lines must be guided in a way that they could be worked upon from the cockpit. Which is done beautifully in the Pogo 40: All halyards run down within the massive carbon mast or over the cabin roof and through jammers and can thus easily be unlocked, brought on to the winch and worked with. Only for hoisting and reefing of the mainsail somebody has to proceed midship to the mast.

When sailing single or double handed – above all in race situations – maneuvers have to be carried out with speed. To assure this, everything has to be within reach of one person: And it is indeed! There is a sheet winch on either side of the cockpit, well within reach with the one mainsheet winch on the center-housing for the life raft. This winch can operate both sheets of jib and Genoa as well as the backstays which also run through spinlocks.

Traveller sheets end in spinlocks right vis-à-vis the mainsheet winch. So, in theory a lone sailor could handle all the running rigging alone. Which of course is proven by a dozen of single hand sailors on Class 40 yachts all over the oceans. Although the cockpit is with its 4.50 meters extremely wide, ways from winch to winch and to the tiller helms are very short. The timeframe from changing conditions to a reaction can thus be made very short.

Of course, our Pogo 40 was equipped with Lazy Jacks to have the ritual of taking down the main sail made as easy as possible, though I can state by my own experience that both hoisting these 70 square meters of canvas and taking them down properly was extremely hard work: I can barely imagine doing this all alone. Thank god electric winches are invented. I felt at home in our Pogo´s cockpit and after a few hours manning the different stations was a no brainer. Again: Being responsible for the whole ship alone should be trained very thoroughly. A Class 40 is far away from being a no frills boat control wise.

Class 40 Sailing: Fast Planing like a Rocket

That was something I was looking forward to the most when booking a cruise on this boat. After having done the interview with Sven, co-owner of SY KNUBBEL, a Pogo 12.50 (which can be read here ) I was impatiently waiting for that sensation when the hull does overcome the boundaries of the wave system and sails faster than her theoretical maximum hull speed. So, all hands on deck, hoist all sails-ho! And tell me now what´s this planing like?

“Planing is when this constant gurgling and bubbling at the stern suddenly stops and is substituted by a smooth Swoosh….- like sound”, tells Sven when I was asking him. Sitting at the helm of POGO 1 beating upwind with 11 to 12 knots I am shouting to the skipper: “Capt´n, at which speed will she start planing?” “We already are – it needs 8 knots”. And yes, looking aft in our wake I notice a white trail indicating the gliding of our hull. It´s just an awesome feeling!

Maintaining control over the ship´s bearing is easy: The Pogo 40 is equipped with twin rudders in such an arrangement that even when heeled extremely the lee-rudder will have full steering capabilities. There was never too much pressure on the rudders though we didn´t have had to cope with too severe gales or swell conditions. It felt quite easy to trim her course by giving rudder – she reacts very vivid and instantly to even smallest corrections. Steering whilst planing? No difference to the classic way of sailing.

Speaking of heeling: The Pogo 40 needs heeling. This process assures the exposure of a smallest possible wetted surface under water thus reducing resistance. She sails very stable even when heeled extremely to up to 40 degrees and I never had the impression of being unsafe. Roaming about on deck when heeled is tricky: It´s wet and slippery, there are ropes virtually everywhere and – when sailing with a crew of five – even a 4.50 meters wide cockpit can easily become cramped.

A truly unique experience was sailing under Gennaker (which can be read in detail here ). The Class 40 is trimmed to go downwind – and she will go as fast as hell! Fastest speed on our POGO 1 in light conditions has been 14 knots, our skipper told us of occasionally exceeding speeds of 20 knots easily. Again: This is a racing machine and riding this stallion must be done only by experienced skippers and crews. She´s definitely not a boat for the rookie.

The Beauty of Sailing a Class 40

Nevertheless, counting myself to the rookie side and looking at how my fellow crew mates managed their jobs on board – all of them with far more experience in sailing than me – with a good skipper sailing on a Class 40 is both exciting, full of adventure and thrilling on the one hand and filled with beauty and grace on the other. Seeing the Class 40 under all canvas, accelerating to full speed and starting to plane filles me with pure joy.

It is barely imaginable that any sailing vessel can sail faster than these kind of boats. I was puzzled when we were overtaking another sailing yacht going at full speed with engine in a matter of minutes, doing our 50 miles in less than 6 hours with light winds. Although it´s a frightening idea but I´d love to be sailing with a Pogo 40 when things get a bit rougher. Well … there are some cruises offered on the Pogo 40 in September. This do get rough in September … This yacht let endorphins flow to the liters, people do have a constant grin on their faces for it is extremely satisfying to sail on a Class 40. Going fast is satisfying: Who wouldn´t trade his VW Golf for a Porsche? I felt constrained to compare the beauty of these boats to the grace of the old square rigged Clipper ships, which might be a sacrilege, but thinking of it there are so much similarities to these fastest sailing vessels of forgotten times.

“She sails wet.”, said skipper Thomas when conducting the safety briefing. There was some water coming down the companionway indeed, but I read reviews of real tough regattas and saw pictures of saloons full of water, soaked cushion and no dry place left whatsoever. As well a frightening prospect, but hell, this must be an awesome experience!

Reviewing a Class 40 Interior

Down below a Class 40 like the Pogo 40 is a true miracle regarding space. She is a 40 ft. boat – I personally find 40 feet with more than 12.50 meters huge compared to my 33 ft. King´s Cruiser – but due to her extreme width of 4.50 meters internal space is just huge! Even with 5 adults leaving their berths, brushing teeth, searching for clothes and having a cup of coffee the saloon didn´t felt cramped at all.

The main saloon is dominated by the large navigation station right on the keel in the middle of the cabin. A seat, a rugged laptop, radio and plotter – even by poking one´s head down the companionway all essential data could be grabbed at once. Down the cabin in the middle is a big fridge and the large folding table which makes dining even with a big crew easy.

Due to the fact that this is a high performance yacht you shouldn´t expect panels or veneers: Even the massive structural stringers of the underbody structure is clearly visible. Watch your step! There´s an L-settee to the port side, a long settee on the starboard side right after the galley which features a two-fire stove, a large sink and working table.

The Pogo 40 features two aft cabins of which the starboard cabin is large enough for two persons, the port cabin has a berth too is also filled with machinery such as heating, vents and pumps and the main power control. Here a more than bare head is to be found: One can seal off when doing his business by having a curtain applied, but again: No doors, no real visual protection and no sound protection at all. It´s a race – not a cruise …

Next to these three possible berths there is more on the port side settees, two persons, another one on the starboard side and – whilst in port – the fore cabin could offer two additional berths. In the end, a crew of 8 persons could find a place to rest while on board but again, that´s just in theory.

When we have been underway with five people – four crew and one skipper – we´ve had two of us in the forepeak, me and another member in the aft cabin, skipper and the last crew member in the saloon berths. Though I didn´t slept on any of the other bunks, I guess I have been lucky indeed having won a berth in the comfortable aft cabin.

To sum it up: The interior won´t appeal to everyone since the isn´t any. Wooden surfaces are limited to galley and folding table, cushion is water proof and so not very cozy (the color being grey does add nothing to create a “ship-like” atmosphere as well) and there is bare GRP everywhere you look. She´s a pure racer. Oh, is she?

Cruising with a Class 40?

There are more owner cruising with their boats than serious racers. You can do cruising with these boats: They have everything needed. This ship is large enough to have provisions and fuel for Blue Water passages, more than enough space and – above all – it will bring you faster to the destinations of your dreams or – being fast above all – allows to stay longer because of reduced sailing time. I guess, a Pogo-concept of fast sailing does correlate with a French sailing philosophy (which I tried to look into here  by interviewing Charly Fernbach of Pogo structures and naval designer-legend Marc Lombard).

If one can adapt to this bare and uncomplicated style of sailing by actively abstaining from luxury I would say yeah, cruising with a Class 40 can be done and should be done! Why wasting precious time on lame old fashioned cruisers? Why not prowl the oceans with speed, arrive early and spend more time? Well, I guess it´s because these days a classy wooden Hallberg-Rassy interior has its fans still – and besides, controlling a yacht like the Pogo 40, going wet and fast with extreme heeling is prospect of asking too much of the ordinary family skipper.

Looking at the sparse interior fitting – even when thinking of replacing the faux water proof leather of the cushion by a friendlier, fresher color, it´s still hard to envision myself and my family going on a long cruise (even a short one) in this boat. Well, envisioning myself I can, but the family … Nevertheless, there are reports of some families doing exactly this.

And the more I think about it – given that I can build up more and more competence and sailing abilities over time – this idea becomes attractive and tempting to dream of ever more. I just love this no-frills-approach to sailing (apart from the not-so-no-frills demand of the boat to be controlled with aplomb), this clean, white, bare surfaces. No wooden panels to care about, easy to maintain and clean, no doors, no portholes – no frills.

I fell in love …

And with all these no frills-commodities, there comes so much joy, so much adventure, so much fun. So much demanding in this boat and – which is most attractive I would say – so much gain in reachable distance! Going faster than 10 knots at virtually any time increases the range of activities extremely: Going faster could mean to reach more distant places or reach more places in the same time. Fascinating. And, sadly enough, unreachable for me (and totally impractical as well). But there´s a solution: Simply by booking another cruise on these fantastic sailing machines.

An alternative for owners who seriously consider to get a Class 40 could be the smaller yet comparable Class 9.50 racer of which some interesting boats are on the market, or – very interesting indeed – a Beneteau Figaro II. A sailing yacht legend of which I am going to publish a couple or articles in the near future.

Bottom line: Class 40 sailing has opened my eyes and thinking back to the wonderful 110 miles aboard POGO 1 still thrills me.

Thanks to Ole Macke for these wonderful Pictures

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How Big Of A Sailboat Can One Person Handle?

During all the years I have been sailing, especially as a small-boat sailor, one question invariably comes up. And depending on where the discussion takes place, possible answers are all over the board from well-meaning people accustomed to traditional answers to this classic question.

With social media and the general free-for-all of everything now published, printed, texted, emailed, and discussed on the dock and at boat shows, it seems to be as popular as ever.

Just how large a sailboat can one person sail single handed?

A 40-foot sailboat is the maximum size for one person to be able to single-handedly control safely . It can be successfully argued up or down a couple of feet, based on the experience and abilities of the sailor. This has been proven by a great many accomplished people.

Many sailors have done amazing voyages in boats well under this length, and others have made serious cruises on boats that are considerably larger. But a word of caution is in order. To focus only on length overshadows other important criteria. Other factors figure heavily in determining the suitability of a big sailboat for single-handed operation.

I am not talking about racing around the world by professional sailors, or across oceans to some destination hundreds (or thousands) of miles away. Rather, I am talking about an average sailor, man or woman, of average stature and physical condition, who has experience and chooses to sail alone. It may be a temporary lifestyle situation, or some other factor that sets the solo requirement for a boat that is to be safely sailed on a regular basis.

( Below: Youtuber Captain Christa sailing her 31-foot boat by herself. )

Another often overlooked kind of solo sailor is one whose spouse or partner cannot meaningfully contribute to operation of the boat. They may be disabled in some way that keeps them from taking part in the activity. Or they may be completely uninterested or inexperienced in sailing, or both, and they come along for the travel and adventure experience. I suspect this may be a larger part of the sailing community than many of us will admit. But if the boat can be out sailing under the control of the short-handed sailor, everyone is happy, and they get to explore new places and see the world together.

There has never been a size unanimously accepted for sailing voyages in the past. Even a brief look back at sailboat cruising shows that size is not universally important. John Guzzwell sailed around the world in his 19-foot Trekka, Tanya Aebi circled the globe in her Taylor 26 (the Canadian version of the Contessa 26), and Frank Casper cruised extensively on his 30-foot Elsie. On the other end of the spectrum is Bill Pinkey on his Valiant 47 circumnavigation, and, of course, who could forget Alain Colas crossing the Atlantic on his 236-foot, four-masted Club Mediterranee?

Mark Schrader sailed around all five capes on his Valiant 40, as did Jeanne Socrates more recently on her 38-foot Najad. Robin Lee Graham went around most of the world on his 24-foot Dove, and 16-year-old Laura Dekker made the record books on her 40-foot Guppy.

So, it should be clear that overall size is just a number, and not the only factor. Keep in mind that many of these voyages, particularly ones going after a record of some kind, did not involve regularly getting in and out of slips and marinas. And for others, it is just common sense that many small boats were chosen for financial reasons (and perhaps it was the boat they already had).

( Below: Solo-Sailor Jeanne Socrates on S/V Nereida arrives in Victoria Harbor. )

When we look at many of these examples, I acknowledge that having a boat with only sitting headroom in the saloon is certainly doable, if not all that comfortable for full-time living. Small boats are inherently slower (forget the notion of 200-mile days), and simply don’t provide the quality of living experience many of us expect in the 21st Century.

Even as I write this, though, I know there are people quietly living aboard a 20-foot Pacific Seacraft Flicka or some other munchkin cruiser. I know, I was once one of them.

I have always enjoyed the simplicity and tuck-into-anywhere versatility of a small cruising boat. While I never harbored the dream of sailing to Hawaii like John Letcher in his 20-foot Island Girl, I did fantasize about living the good life in a sailboat under 26 feet. Those were the days. Every inch needed to serve double duty, interior furniture regularly transformed for other purposes: a galley, chart table, and liquor cabinet all in one. In my mind somehow it all worked.

But I was young and immortal.

Again, we are talking about an average man or woman, without Olympic-level physical ability, who is simply looking for a boat to enjoy cruising or perhaps live aboard. People like you and me, who may be young or old, and possess some sailing experience. A Catalina 30 or Southern Cross 28 is quite a comfy home for the right person, fully capable of extended coastal cruising. A well-appointed 36-footer may be the height of luxury for others.

There are many examples of boats out there with only a single person aboard. But as these sailboats get larger, so does their volume and weight, and the required equipment and deck gear gets more expensive and complex to handle the increased loads. At some point the relatively complicated systems to ease the chores of sail handling and close quarter maneuvering include electric or hydraulic winches, furling gear, windlasses, autopilots, and electronics. These systems are generally very reliable, if not foolproof, and require regular maintenance and occasional service.

Big boats also need lots of electric power for these systems and general house service, so it is not uncommon to run a generator much of the time under way when sailing. In recent years, new forms of power generation are out there, including more efficient diesel generators. And there are more choices for water, wind, and solar power generation as well.

The original 64-foot Kiwi Spirit II, sailed solo by 80-year-old Stanley Paris , proved too much boat for the aging sailor, as its systems were too complex and required continuous work to keep operational. His next KSII was only 53 feet overall but, while it was easier to handle, still too proved too much. The reality is that big boats are rarely, if ever, simple boats. And simple is good when it comes to solo sailing.

( Below: Stanley Paris on board Kiwi Spirit II. )

That being said, Jimmy Cornell, author of World Cruising Routes and founder of those popular ocean crossing rallies, gave a slideshow of today’s current cruising scene, based on data collected as host of his many events. The size of cruising sailboats has steadily increased over the years, mainly because current designs and systems fit the needs of many cruising couples and others. In his most recent survey, presented at the start of the Covid pandemic, he showed that the average size of cruising yachts cruising around the world (but not necessarily going around the world), is just over 43 feet. Most of these boats are sailed by couples. Yachts checking into Tahiti now average 45.2 feet. So, it seems that for extended world cruising with two or more crew, larger sailboats are mainstream, whether monohull or catamaran.

I am a member of the Ocean Cruising Club , and the biannual publication shares the adventures of members who are out cruising. The trend for most of these people, again mostly couples and those cruising with friends, is to be on larger boats than one would have expected some years ago. To read stories from people cruising on 54-foot yachts is common. The few solo cruisers who publish are in much smaller boats, often well under 30 feet.

There is an often-repeated “rule” that single sailors should not expect to handle a sail larger than 300 to 400 square feet. I don’t know where this came from, but it seems to be a universal belief. And there is also the conclusion that interior comfort can be sacrificed if the reduced boat size makes it easier to handle. As far as I am concerned, neither is the case these days.

While the complexity of systems on a large sailboat (50 to 60+ feet) may be intimidating for the average sailor, systems sized for a 40-foot or smaller sailboat are not, and often include some form of manual assist or backup. Electric winches on a 40-foot sailboat are really nice to have and are nothing compared to the monsters one finds on large sailboats. I sailed to Bermuda on an 83-foot sailboat with hydraulic winches, and they were impressive. And huge.

I spoke to Jonathan Bartlett , who runs the Annapolis loft for North Sails. North Sails is a big player in today’s sailing world, with over 70 lofts around the world. Jonathan’s years of experience certainly qualify him to speak with authority.

He never mentioned the 300 to 400-square-foot argument. His more immediate concern was the importance of a single person being able to get a big boat in and out of a slip. Even with a bow thruster, one often must be at the bow to fend off a piling or another boat, and if you are alone, who is driving at the helm? There may also be windage issues. And if one’s boat proves too difficult (ie., scary) to move in and out of the slip without drama, how often will he or she be inclined to even go out???

Jonathan said that, in his opinion, the largest boat size to be considered for a single sailor is 40 feet. And he feels that is more than enough boat for most everyone. Today’s boat designs offer as much interior volume and accommodations in 40 feet as the 45-footers of the 1990s. That is more than enough room for a single sailor, even for living aboard. Anything above 40 feet is just too much…living space, overall volume, and effort.

On the flip side, he added that the decks of small boats are often difficult to move around without stepping on tracks, cars, lines, and all sorts of other obstacles.

“A boat’s deck layout is really important for a single sailor,” he said. “Great footing is critical, and there should be fewer tracks to walk on, or having to walk between shrouds when moving around the boat.

( Below: The 348 from Hanse Yachts gives you the ability to control the entire Helmsman system from the cockpit. )

“How a boat is set up is way more important that the size of the sails.”

Jonathan pointed out that many of today’s sailboats are intentionally made to be easy to sail, with furling mainsails and smaller headsails. “Compared to the mid-1990s, we are getting away from large genoas, replacing them with larger mainsails. These mainsails are captive, easily reefed, and under complete control with full battens.”

He went on to say that smaller headsails are easier to trim, and for the solo sailor, why it is also vital that sail trim duties take place at the helm in the cockpit, so the single sailor can do it all from one place without a lot of moving around. The days of working at the mast are over.

“Look at the French designers and builders,” he went on. “They get it. The Jeanneau and Beneteau lines, for example, are all about very simple-to-sail controls, sails are easy to put up and take down, and the boats are very sailor friendly. That is what gets people to go sailing, because it is easy and fun.”

Big, powerful mainsails have mostly replaced large headsails, and short-footed headsails are easy to manage. Bartlett pointed out that the J/105 is a good example of a boat that is easy to sail. When it is easy to trim the main and jib from the helm, it is simple…and makes people want to go sailing.

( Below: The J/105 from builder J-Boats. )

To further the simplicity argument, he suggested that, instead of the traditional spinnaker or Code Zero for light air, a gennaker in a sock is a better fit for the single sailor and probably the way to go. The gennaker is a free-flying asymmetric spinnaker that does not require a spinnaker pole and is flown from the bow. It is easy to control and can even be used when the boat is steered by an autopilot. It is easy to put up and take down, and one can drive the boat downwind in full control.

“Our sport pushes bigger boats than is usually called for,” he added. “And some builders consider their boats suitable to be single-handed, even when they probably aren’t. Hallberg-Rassy and Hylas come to mind.”

Two boats that he mentioned in our conversation as good examples of nice sail plans and controls are the Harbor 20 daysailer and the Outbound 44. I know the Harbor 20 fleet is a popular one-design at the Annapolis Yacht Club, as it epitomizes a sail plan that is so easy to sail, easily managed by one person. And he thinks the Outbound has a great deck layout and overall consideration for sail handling by a short-handed crew. While it is on the bigger side of the 40-foot mark, especially now as it is replaced by the Outbound 46, he feels the builder continues to work to make it fit the needs of the solo sailor. But at 46 feet, it can be a challenge to dock in close quarters.

Another line he feels hits the mark are the newer, 39 to 40-foot Jeanneau and Beneteau boats. They are also very simple and easy to sail from the helm. This makes people want to go out sailing again and again. The lack of drama is a lot more important than many realize.

The Tartan line of sailboats from Seattle Yachts now come with the Cruise Control Rig (CCR), designed to make sailing easier and put the controls back in the cockpit where they belong. Self-tacking jibs and furling boom mainsails go a long way to make life easier, safer, and more fun.

As far as sails go, Jonathan said the solo sailor should look at sails that are lighter and have lower stretch qualities. Traditional Dacron sails are heavy and “stretchier,” whereas new composite sails offer light weight and are flatter in shape that won’t easily stretch. Heavy Dacron sails are also harder to trim and tack.

If one is outfitting a boat for solo sailing, composite sails are the way to go.

I have long been told that a larger boat is easier to handle at sea, as the motion is more settled. I think that is true, especially when compared to a 28-footer bouncing around in choppy seas. Up to a point (and that 40-foot mark) a boat’s motion can be more comfortable, under way, at anchor, or at the dock. That is especially true if one minimizes weight at both ends of the boat. Small boats tend to hobbyhorse when sailing because it is difficult to keep the ends light.

On a bigger boat from a good designer, the boat’s motion is not only easier to live with but is decidedly faster through the water. Daily runs are possible that can not be achieved in smaller hulls.

Another consideration is space. Small boats compromise space in every respect. For a single person (and the sailor who cruises with a non-sailing spouse), accommodations on a 40-footer are more than enough, and there is still space for increased fuel and water tankage for longer range and self-sufficiency. Being able to motor a long distance is no longer a luxury in many cruising areas and having sufficient water supply lessens the requirements for a watermaker.

Additional space also means one can carry more batteries, and the components of other systems, and proper access to them. It is imperative to have good access for a happy ship.

As I already mentioned, having a way to generate electricity while sailing is vital, to power all the systems, electronics, and autopilot. This gets harder to fit inside a small boat and represents a real challenge. Access is usually also compromised in the process of fitting it all in.

I am not pushing that everyone buy a big boat, but I know from past experience that when sailing a smaller boat, under 36 feet for sure, even more so under 30 feet, there is a greater chance of tripping as one moves about. It is almost unavoidable, as there is just so much under foot. Cars and tracks, running rigging, trim, shrouds, items secured to lifelines, and those hideous wire jacklines that some idiot came up with that roll when stepped on, causing many a sailor to lose their balance. On a larger boat, deck space is often less cluttered, and provides more sure footing, even as we eliminate the need to go work at the mast or foredeck in the first place.

( Below: A young Bill Parlatore in 1977 putting baggywrinkle in the rigging of my wood, gaff-rigged Tahiti ketch. )

And staying on the boat is a top priority no matter what size boat you sail. For anyone sailing alone, the use of strong, non-stretch webbing jacklines is highly recommended. Being attached to the boat is critical for personal safety. If set up properly, wearing a harness and staying clipped onto the boat as one moves around the deck is neither inconvenient nor difficult. It is also the only way to have two hands free with any degree of security. The alternative of not being attached to the boat is unthinkable, as there are no good ways to get back aboard if one goes over the side.

I once asked Dodge Morgan about his man overboard contingency, if any. He gave a presentation of his around the world trip on the 60-foot American Promise at a Safety at Sea seminar in Annapolis. American Promise was a heavy, yet fast sailboat designed by Ted Hood, specifically to sail nonstop around the world as quickly as possible. It did so in record time, cutting the previous record in half.

When I asked Dodge about what provision he made for falling overboard, he said that any overboard rescue device he might have for that situation was just “a sick joke” in his mind. Once you go overboard when sailing alone offshore, the game is over.

Every effort should be made to make it safe to move about the boat when sailing and to stay aboard. This is important no matter what size boat you sail.

While I have many fond memories of sailing small boats and making coffee in the early morning at anchor on a swinging stove by the companionway, now I am older, wiser, and no longer immortal. So, offsetting any flexibility and balance issues, I have more wisdom and budget to pursue what makes sense now.

If I went looking for sailboat to continue sailing by myself, I suspect I would be looking for a boat that does everything I want, and is close to, if not dead on, that 40-foot mark. I might start looking at 36 feet, but I expect my interest in creature comforts would dictate a larger platform. The idea of a separate shower is appealing to me now, as are the many spaces and lockers that allow me to put things in proper places where I can get to them easily without fumbling through lockers. The main anchor on the boat would be big, but not as overwhelming as one finds on larger boats.

I also think my comfort level in a roomy interior would make a world of difference as I relax at anchor these days. I’m no longer interested in transformer-style accommodations. I relish the idea of easily stepping into a dinghy or water taxi from the stern, which is a much higher priority than it might have been years ago. A proper chart table and saloon are also well worth the price of admission, as well as plenty of opening hatches to let in the breeze.

And for the solo sailor with a “guest” aboard, it is much the same. They should be able to handle the boat by themselves and accept that the second person really only contributes to the enjoyment of the accommodations, and perhaps reading the cruising guide, leaving the physical aspects of sailing to the sailor.

There is no reason why a single person should have to give up much of anything with today’s modern sailboat, and they should get the smallest big boat that works for them, all the way up to 40 feet, plus or minus a foot or two.

The right boat will provide a great platform for adventure, without the drama, anxiety, and emotion of trying to handle too much, or suffering from too small a cruiser that forces us into camping mode at the stage in life where we should be enjoying the fruits of a successful life.

See you on the water.

Enjoy these other sailboat related articles :

• Owning A Sailboat - Frequently Asked Questions
• What Is The Safest Sailboat?
• Is Sailing A Cheap Hobby?
• What Are The Different Types Of Sailboats?
• And Now For You Sailboat Owners Out There
• Is Sailing Hard?
• The Unexpected Side Of An Aging Sailor
• What Is The Best Size Sailboat To Live On?
• How Big Of A Boat Do You Need To Sail Around The World?
• Moving From A Sailboat To A Trawler
• Extend Your Sailing Life
• How Much Does An Average Sailboat Cost?

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What Size Sailboat Do I Need? Must-Read Before You Choose

Buying a sailboat is a huge investment and requires planning and forethought before you begin.

Knowing your needs and requirements before you start shopping is crucial to making the buying process easier.

That being said, knowing how big of a boat you need is the first step:

Here’s How to Choose What Size Sailboat you Need:

Consider your needs before buying your boat. If you are a solo sailor or have a huge family, if you cruise or race, or if you want to sail the ocean, your needs and size of the boat will change. Most sailboats range between 15-40 feet. Depending on your needs, you may need 15-25 or 25-40 feet.

Table of Contents

What is the Best-Sized Sailboat for a Family of 4?

You will not need as much room for a family of 4 that is racing and/or daysailing.

You won’t need the stowage for provisions or offshore equipment, and you expect to bump into one another now and then when tacking.

Keeping in mind that all boats are different and headrooms can differ even on boats of the same length, a good size would be 25-28 feet. If the kids are younger, a smaller boat is better, and if they are teens or pre-teens, a larger boat is preferable.

On longer trips, you need more space per person and storage. This is especially true if you are going to be liveaboards.

Liveaboard families will probably need a 36-42 foot range.

What is the Minimum Size Sailboat for Rough Weather?

Most modern sailboats are manufactured to handle rough weather for at least a reasonable amount of time.

Knowledge of construction and rigging and manufacturing standards are very high in the marine industry (liability has made this a certainty over the years).

With that being said, you’d still want to be in at least a 24-foot boat if you want to sustain storm conditions for a significant length of time. A rugged boat like the J/24, while designed as a one-design racer, can take a lot of pounding. 

You would not necessarily want to cross the ocean in that size boat (though it can and has been done), but you can handle most of the rough weather you encounter along the coast.

What Size Sailboat Can you Live on Comfortably?

We need to consider whether you will be living by yourself on the boat or with your family and if you will be staying mostly at a marina or cruising offshore, living from port to port.

Personal preference for accommodations is important here, too. Some people are perfectly comfortable living in Spartan conditions, while others would find it difficult to live without the most modern amenities.

If you live by yourself on board, your options will be wider, as you will not need the room that a family will require. If this is the case, 30 feet is a pretty good choice to live in comfortably.

The Catalina 30, for example, was one of the most successful designs ever as a racer/cruiser and had plenty of space and storage and a comparatively roomy bathroom. The Cataline 30 can also go for extended cruises, so it is a good size for single-living whether you will be marina-based or going on long-distance cruises.

If a family is living aboard, you need a bigger boat.

Staying at a marina where you can spend time ashore is easier, so 36-38 feet can be a comfortable size, but this sized boat will probably become cramped if you live offshore or from point to point.

Offshore, 40-42 feet is a good size for a family of four. If your family is larger, you might have to find a 45-footer for everyone to live in comfort.

What is the Minimum Size Sailboat for Sailing the Ocean?

The record-sized boat to cross the Atlantic is just over five feet in length, but that was a feat of endurance and not a comfortable or safe crossing.

It is generally accepted that about a 30-footer is the minimum you’d want to take across the Atlantic or Pacific, even by experienced sailors.

This is for the combination of speed, stowage, durability, and safety.

What Size Sailboat to Sail the Caribbean?

If you are cruising through the Caribbean for a while, you want to be comfortable.

You will see all sizes of sailboats making their way between the islands, but not all of them are doing it comfortably or safely.

The most common sizes with these factors in mind are in the 30 to 35-foot range, both in monohulls and catamarans. 

Many of these are charter boats, taken by people with little or no sailing experience, particularly the catamarans, so crossings between islands are usually done in calmer seas. Still, boats in this range will be able to handle any unexpected weather.

What Size Sailboat to Sail to the Bahamas?

If you are sailing to the Bahamas from Florida, the passage is not as long or difficult as going through the Caribbean and definitely not as bad as across the Atlantic.

If the trip is planned properly, you will not see any rough weather at all.

The crossing is routinely made by sailboats as small as 20 feet in length. Most sailors tend toward the 22- to 26-foot range in making the voyage safely and easily.

If you want to do it in comfort, you can’t go wrong with your 30-footer.

How Many Guests Will You Have?

Many sailors prefer to sail solo.

If you prefer solo sailing, you will probably not need as big a boat as you do not require the amount of space and storage you would with a crew on board.

This is not always true because you need a larger boat for durability and storage if you are doing distance solo sailing.

For most sailors, though, the company of their friends and family is a prime draw of being out on the water. If you intend to have more people with you, you will certainly need a larger boat.

The more people you intend to take with you regularly, the larger the boat will need to be.

Will You Be Doing Serious or Casual Sailing?

Depending on your level of seriousness, your choice of boat size will vary.

Smaller boats are easier to maintain, more fun to take out on weekends, and don’t have a lot of upkeep. However, bigger boats will end up costing you so much more, need a lot of attention, and will generally require a lot of experience.

Some of the highest costs here are sails. This is not just because of the sail area, but cloth weight and material, as well. So a new mainsail for a 30-foot boat will cost twice or more than one for a 20-foot boat.

Furthermore, marinas charge slip fees based on the boat’s length, or at least the size of the slip. The difference between the slip fees for a 25-foot boat and a 30-foot boat can be hundreds of dollars a year.

Also, larger boats always require more work. Because they are longer, they have more surface area that needs to be cleaned and repaired, more teak that needs to be treated, and more hardware that needs to be maintained and replaced.

A casual sailor is often less inclined to spend the time and money required to maintain a larger boat so that they will gravitate toward a smaller one.

The serious sailor understands the commitment in time and money, so they expect it. Because they are more dedicated to sailing, they usually will end up with a larger boat.

Will You be Racing, Cruising, or Both?

If you are primarily racing, you need to determine whether you will be doing one-design or handicap:

Handicap Racing:

In handicap racing, your boat will be assigned a rating based on its documented performance, and other boats will owe you time, or you will owe them time over the length of the racecourse, expressed in seconds per mile.

This is more about the performance of your crew and their experience as well. In this case, any size boat can compete, though fleets are usually broken up at certain ratings.

So a 22-foot boat will be in a different class than a 40-foot boat, and they will not be competing directly with each other unless the fleet is small and so they are all combined.

One-Design Racing:

In one-design racing, all boats are the same as one another, whether Lasers, J/24s, or Vipers.

If you want to go that route, your choice in size of a boat will be made for you.

If you intend to do both racing and cruising and do not go the one design route, you are free to choose the size of boat that you wish. You will probably opt for a little larger-sized boat, as you are a little more serious about your sailing.

There are many sailboats made with both racing and cruising in mind. This “hybrid design” started in the 1970s with the explosion of sailing’s popularity, and today most boats are made to accomplish both.

The exceptions to this are the pure racing boats, which are generally very uncomfortable to do any pleasure cruising in over any significant distance, anyway.

So, What Boat Size Works for You?

If you are doing casual solo sailing, you might look at dinghies around 15 feet.

A Sunfish-style boat is ideal, as it is easy to sail and get up to speed. Likewise, serious solo racers might look in the 15-foot range, such as Lasers or Moths. These are all trailerable.

If you want to stay in dinghies, there are many 2-person boats, often classic classes like Hamptons or popular boats like the Hobie 16 catamarans. There are many larger dinghies around, such as the Thistle, which has active racing classes and requires a crew of 3.

If you are a casual solo cruiser, you might look in the 19 to 23-foot range. At this size, a sailboat is still relatively easy to handle. There are a variety of small daysailers made with this in mind.

Serious solo cruisers will look for larger boats, as they will frequently be sailing, and frequently it will be distance cruising. Longer boats will have better speed and more room, and these sailors will handle the larger size.

25 to 30 feet is a good size for these sailors, but it is not rare to see an experienced solo sailor taking a 35 or 40-footer across an ocean.

If you are taking out a crew of 4 people regularly, you will be looking in the 25 to 30-foot range as a cruiser, whether serious or casual, with serious being at the longer end. If you anticipate 6 to 8 people regularly, 35 or 40 or more feet will be more comfortable.

Serious and casual racers will be found in almost any size boat from 20 to 45 feet. One design will determine the exact boat if you go that route, but otherwise, there are few limits outside of price.

The determining factors here will probably be the number of crew you can count on and the fleet you wish to compete in.

Casual racers will probably opt for smaller boats here, as it is less expensive and easier to compete short-handed if all of the crew cannot make the race. Serious racers will opt toward the larger boat here, as they are more competitive, and the best competition is usually at the upper end of the fleet.  

Final Thoughts

We’ve looked at the major considerations for choosing the best size sailboat for you and/or your family and looked at what size is best for certain voyages.

Price is something we did not examine closely, except in the context of being a serious or casual sailor, but that will have to fall where it may.

The bigger boat will cost you more. If not in the initial purchase, then it will cost more in the maintenance.

The bottom line is what you want to accomplish in your sailing and how many people in your crew.

References:

The Six Types of Daysailers

Ten Best Sailboats To Live In

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Popular Cruising Yachts 40 to 45 feet Long Overall Their Physical Properties & Key Performance Indicators

Welcome to this ever-growing gallery of some of the most popular cruising yachts between 40 and 45 feet (12.2m to 13.7m) long overall. But it's more than just a gallery - every image is a link to a page setting out the boat's physical properties, key performance indicators and other data.

Cruising Yachts featured on this page...

With plenty of room for a cruising couple to live aboard comfortably, production cruising boats within this size range are understandably very popular with long distance sailors. However, marina charges worldwide seem to take a bit of a hike at 12m, so be warned... If you'd like to submit a suitable image of a cruising yacht (yours perhaps?), please click here to send your pic. It doesn't have to be within this boat length category; if it isn't we'll move it to the appropriate one. Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 44 DS Beneteau Oceanis 440 Morgan Out Island 41 Beneteau Oceanis 43 Catalina Morgan 43 Jeanneau 'Sun Odyssey' 409 Moody 41 Classic Dehler 43 CWS Hunter Passage 42 Beneteau First 435 Hallberg-Rassy 41 Sweden Yachts 42 Seastream 43 Morgan 41 Out Island Classic Jeanneau Sun Magic 44 (also known as the Sun Odyssey 44) Formosa 42 (also known as the Slocum 43) Feeling 446 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 44i Hallberg-Rassy 43 Freedom 44 (Cat Ketch) Catalina Morgan 440 Catalina 445 Catalina 42 MkII Beneteau 411 Bavaria Match 42 Island Packet 40 Roomy, comfortable and robust, the long-keeled Island Packet 40 could be many sailors ideal cruising yacht. 139 of them were built between 1994 and 2000. 'Zephyr' , an Ovni 395 dried out on a Cornish beach. Many thanks to Colin & Rebecca Campbell for this pic of their versatile cruising yacht. Pearson 424 The Peason 424 cruising yacht is available as a ketch as the version shown below, or as a cutter. There's no denying that the Pearson 424 is an attractive cruising yacht. The J/40 is a highly regarded performance cruising yacht. Designed and built to really sail well, passage times will be impressive. Derived from C&C's Redline 41, the Newport 41 had a long and successful production run. It might lack some of the amenities of 'full-volume' modern cruising yachts below decks, but is a tough, fast and seakindly boat offshore. Sirius 40 DS The Sirius 40 DS motorsailer can be built with a number of keel options:  A deep fin keel of 7'6", 6'6" or 5'9"; a swing keel that draws 8'0" and 3'2" up; or twin keels that allow the boat to dry out upright.  Columbia 43 MkIII The gentle sheer and flush deck of this Columbia 43 MkIII aft-cockpit cruising yacht make for a very attractive sailboat. Pacific Seacraft 40 Many thanks to Mike Price for this fine pic of his Contest 44 'Tumbledown Wind' as she crosses the ARC (Atlantic Rally for Cruisers) finishing line. Mason 43 Cruising Yachts Many thanks to Sally & Al Pribyl for this pic of their Mason 43 staysail ketch 'Artemis' , at anchor in Prickly Bay, Grenada. Many thanks to Richard Clement and family for this fine pic of their Moody 425 cruising yacht 'Vega' . Norseman 447 Many thanks for this pic to Dartanyon Race, co-Captain of this Norseman 447 cruising yacht 'Lutris' . Hunter 40.5 Caliber 40 LRC Swan 43 (S & S) C&C Landfall 42 RH 43 (Also known as the CT 43) Jeanneau Sun Legende 41 Hinckley Sou'wester 42 MkII Ovni AluBat 43 Hallberg Rassy 42 (Frers) She looks like a cutter in this pic, but the inline stays converging at the masthead shows that the Hallberg-Rassy 42 cruising yacht  'Cavatina' is a  solent rigged  sloop. Beneteau 423 Beneteau Oceanis 42CC Moody Eclipse 43 Trintella 44 Catalina 400 Mk2 Islander 44 Grand Soleil 39 Westerly Oceanlord 41 CSY 44 (Walk-Through) Many thanks to Jeff and Carolee, for this pic of their CSY 44 Walk-Thru' staysail ketch  'Contessa' . CSY 44 (Mid-Cockpit) Jeanneau 'Sun Odyssey' 40.3 Outbound 44 Island Packet 445 Many thanks to Jim Shanahan for this great pic of his Island Packet cruising yacht 445 'Watermark III'. Passport 40 More Cruising Yachts Pics Please... Hallberg-rassy 42 (enderlein), recent articles. Sovereign 51 Specs & Data Aug 21, 24 05:54 AM Taswell 43 Specs Aug 21, 24 02:35 AM Hood 38 Specs & Data Aug 20, 24 03:35 PM Here's where to: Find  Used Sailboats for Sale... Find Used Sailing Gear for Sale... List your Sailboat for Sale... List your Used Sailing Gear... Our eBooks... A few of our Most Popular Pages... Just a headsail and a mainsail - simple and efficient.  Read more... A smaller headsail and a staysail makes sail handling easier. A second mast with a mizzen sail, for greater versatility. Copyright © 2024  Dick McClary  Sailboat-Cruising.com 2024 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE SWS ADVENTURES Email Newsletters Fishing Boat Reviews Fly Fishing Marine Electronics Fishing Tackle Fishing Destinations The Bahamas Fishing Guide Boating Safety Ultimate Boat Giveaway What’s the Smallest Boat You Should Take Offshore? By Alan Jones Updated: May 23, 2024 The first thing that pops up if you Google “What’s the best boat size for offshore fishing?” is a definitive answer: “Between 30 and 40 feet long.” Well, that was easy. Sadly, there is no magic-size boat that’s ideal for heading offshore. The best boat length for you depends on many factors: budget, type of boat, how far offshore you plan to run, where you live and the conditions you’ll face, how experienced you are and your tolerance for risk.  What is Offshore Anyway? If you live in the Northeast and want to go canyon fishing on the continental shelf, you might have to run more than 100 miles one way and will need a boat with the range capable of handling rough water. The Atlantic will start rocking at some point.  Grady-White’s Canyon series starts at around 27 feet LOA, which is probably the minimum length for a well-designed boat fishing the closer canyons. A boat like the Canyon 271 does well offshore thanks to its capable SeaV2 hull, which features a sharp 55 degrees of deadrise at the entry, 30 degrees amidships, and 20 degrees at the stern. But for most canyon runs, a larger model like the Canyon 326 would probably be more appropriate. Its larger size and 327-gallon fuel tank give you a lot more range.  – NEVER MIX ALCOHOL AND BOATING – Alcohol is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents, and in many states a citation for boating under the influence goes on your driving record. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard Offshore Fuel Management When calculating range for an offshore trip, a 10 percent reserve won’t cut it. Use the more conservative rule of thirds instead. First, make sure the tank is full. Use ­only a third of your fuel for heading out and fishing. Reserve the second third of your fuel capacity for heading back. That leaves the last third as a reserve in case conditions worsen.   The Near-Offshore Boat If you are fishing off Miami Beach, the edge of the Gulf Stream might be only a mile offshore. At 4 miles out, you can be in 1,000 feet of water. In good weather, you’ll even see flats boats trolling weed lines for dolphin. In this scenario, a capable compact center-console like the Scout 215 XSF or Robalo’s R222—which both have a lot of freeboard in the front—will likely be sufficient for close-in offshore work. But here’s the catch: In summer, violent thunderstorms tend to form over land and head toward the ocean. These can cut off small boats from heading back in if a skipper isn’t ­paying attention. – LEARN THE NAVIGATION RULES – Know the “Rules of the Road” that govern all boat traffic. Be courteous and never assume other boaters can see you. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard Weather Watching A good weather app to have on your phone in the above scenario is WeatherBug, which is free ($3.99 without ads). It automatically homes in on your location, and the home page immediately shows the distance and location of the nearest lightning strike during the last half-hour, a great ­indicator of severe weather.  Bigger Means Safer In general, bigger boats are safer, according to the 2021 US Coast Guard Recreational Boating Statistics report. It said 273 deaths occurred on boats from 16 feet long to less than 26 feet long. For boats 26 feet long and greater, the total number of fatalities drops to 59, with only one of those occurring on boats greater than 65 feet long. Most of those fatalities, by the way, were due to drowning by those not wearing life jackets. – LOWER YOUR RATES – Taking a boating safety course won’t just make you a better skipper. It could also help you save big on insurance. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard Experience Counts A well-designed catamaran with an experienced captain will punch above its weight when it comes to handling rough water. I remember fishing in the 1998 Tred Barta Blue Marlin Classic held at Walker’s Cay aboard a Glacier Bay 260 Canyon Runner (there’s that C word again). Conditions were rough, but it handled the 6-foot seas far better than most of the larger boats in the fleet as we passed them heading back to the docks.  The trick with this particular cat was to go about 25 to 30 mph to keep air moving between the hulls, and to not let off the throttle, even when we saw a larger wave coming. Gyrostabilization A great equalizer for handling offshore conditions in smaller boats is a gyrostabilizer such as the Seakeeper 1, which is designed for boats as small as 23 feet.  This marvel of modern engineering weighs 365 pounds and costs $15,900, not including installation. But it makes a tremendous difference in the way your boat handles rough water by nearly eliminating side-to-side roll. That makes it much easier to fish and run in comfort aboard smaller boats.     No matter what size boat you head offshore in, you should do what’s necessary to make it safer by owning and maintaining all your required safety equipment, including a VHF radio, an EPIRB or a personal locator beacon, and a ditch bag for worst-case scenarios. And don’t forget to always use good judgment. Some days, it’s just better to stay inside.   More: Boat Talk , boating safety , Boats , March 2023 Scout 357 LXF Electric Outboard Steering Best Dredge Fishing Tips for Center Consoles EdgeWater 208CC Watchman West Coast Rail-Rod Techniques to Catch Huge Tuna How to Catch Tarpon in Florida Year-Round Catch Mid-Atlantic King Mackerel World-Class Sailfish Action in Guatemala Digital Edition Customer Service Privacy Policy Terms of Use Cruising World Sailing World Salt Water Sportsman Sport Fishing Wakeboarding BOAT OF THE YEAR Newsletters Sailboat Reviews Boating Safety Sails and Rigging Maintenance Sailing Totem Sailor & Galley Living Aboard Destinations Gear & Electronics Charter Resources Ultimate Boat Giveaway 10 New Cruising Sailboats Under 35 Feet By Cruising World Staff Updated: November 3, 2020 It wasn’t so long ago that 30- to 35-foot cruising sailboats were likely to be the largest yachts found in many a harbor. And while 40-something and even 50-something footers are all the rage at boat shows today, there’s a lot to be said for setting sail on a boat big enough to carry family and friends, but still small enough to be easily maintained and handled alone from time to time. Small cruising sailboats are simple to dock or tie up to a mooring, and finding long-term marina space is easier as well. Choosing a cruising sailboat, no matter the size, is a big decision. And it helps to have a trusted list of boats to get started. Here, then, is a look at 10 of the best daysailers , weekenders and coastal cruising sailboats under 35 feet that are all in production and can be purchased new. Alerion Sport 30 A quarter-century ago, Garry Hoyt launched what would come to be known as the daysailer genre with the introduction of the Alerion Express 28, a boat designed by the late Carl Schumacher that featured a minimal interior and a large cockpit where an owner and guests could enjoy the simple joy of sailing. Traditional and lovely looking—but with a quite modern underbody and a powerful sail plan—Hoyt, ever the marketer, proclaimed the boat to be “the prettiest girl at the dance.” Since then, a number of siblings ranging from 20 to 41 feet have been added to the Alerion family, including the Alerion Sport 30, which retains the graceful sheer line, oval ports and stylish overhangs of the original Schumacher design. Yet with input from naval architect Langan Design Partners, it also embraces a solid measure of performance-oriented DNA. Read more about the Alerion Sport 30 » Bavaria Cruiser 34 In every Boat of the Year contest, it seems, a boat rises up after sea trials to make a lasting impression on the judges. For 2018, that boat was the Bavaria Cruiser 34. Says Boat of the Year Judge Tim Murphy, “The Bavaria was a lovely boat to sail. It has a single rudder, and she answered her helm just beautifully in the conditions we had today. We started off with around 10 knots of breeze that built to 13 to 15 knots. As a sailboat, it was just a pleasurable sailing experience, among the best we had during our judging. It was among the boats that felt like a really happy sailing experience. Read more about the Bavaria Cruiser 34 » Beneteau Oceanis 30.1 Sailed as part of the 2020 Boat of the Year sea trials, the 31-foot-3-inch Beneteau Oceanis 30.1 was the compact yacht best-equipped and spec’d out as a dedicated cruising boat, and not coincidentally, it was also awarded the title of Best Performance Cruiser for 2020. But don’t let her cozy interior accommodations fool you; this is also one peppy little vessel. Read more about the Beneteau Oceanis 30.1 » The 2017 Boat of the Year (BOTY) contest featured a stellar crop of crossover cruiser/racers; however, when all the testing was said and done, our independent panel of judges was sold on the Dehler 34, naming it the year’s Best Performance Cruiser. Designed by the highly regarded Judel/Vrolijk naval-architecture consortium, whose reputation was fostered by longtime success in international yacht-racing circles, the 34-footer combined contemporary good looks and a sweet turn of speed with better-than-average comfort and accommodations below. It didn’t hurt that the boat, nicely equipped at $215,000, was the least-expensive entry in the entire 2017 fleet. All in all, it proved to be a winning formula. Read more about the Dehler 34 » Dufour Grand Large 360 Dufour Yachts introduced its new 360 Grand Large model to CW’s Boat of the Year team in 2018 as a coastal cruiser intended for a couple or perhaps a small family. With that in mind, judge Alvah Simon found numerous clever elements to praise within the boat’s 35-foot-2-inch hull—a relatively modest LOA compared to the many 40-, 50- and 60-footers on display at the U.S. Sailboat show in Annapolis, Maryland. Read more about the Dufour Grand Large 360 » After a roughly 10-year hiatus from the U.S. marketplace, the Slovenian builder Elan is back in a big way. For the 2017 Boat of the Year contest, the company launched a pair of new boats in the States, including the Elan E4, a 34-foot-9-inch performance cruiser with an emphasis on performing, designed by renowned British naval architect Rob Humphreys. The brand has been in business for seven decades and lately is perhaps even better known in America for its skis. Not surprisingly, given its complementary product lines—lots of sailors are fine skiers—its boats are as sleek and sporty as its boards. Read more about the Elan E4 » Grand Soleil 34 Way back in the 1970s, when the well-known Italian boatyard Grand Soleil was just getting started, its first model was a Finot-designed 34-footer. With over 300 units sold, it was an instant success, and launched the company on an upward trajectory that spanned the intervening decades, mostly with an ongoing series of much larger, more complex racer/cruisers. For 2020, the builder decided to return to its roots with a completely revamped Grand Soleil 34, and it’s a terrific boat. Read more about the Grand Soleil 34 » Value. How does one determine it? Price is most certainly a factor. In the case of new boats, and our Boat of the Year competition, it means something more. As sailors, we wish to recognize good boats that not only are affordable but offer other, tangible rewards. The ability to get couples and families out on the water, to have a weekend escape, to take them on coastal vacations and even maybe a sabbatical to the islands, all without breaking the bank. For 2019, the judging panel determined that one boat had the potential to do these things better than the rest, which is why they awarded the Best Value prize to the Hanse 348. With a price tag under $200,000, during sea trials the Hanse 348 wowed the judging team from the get-go. “In only about 8 knots of breeze, we were seeing 5.7 knots upwind and pointing very nicely, and even registered 6.5 knots once we cracked off,” said Tim Murphy. “It’s a pretty sweet little boat.” Read more about the Hanse 348 » Italia 9.98 Of the performance cruisers that made their North American debut in 2020, in terms of sheer appearance, the futuristic 34-foot Italia 9.98 was easily the most distinctive. There are actually two versions of the boat: the 34 Club—which is the cruising alternative, the primary features of which are its twin wheels—and the 34 Fuoriserie—the racing model, and the one we tested, with its tiller steering being the identifying characteristic. Read more about the Italia 9.98 » Beginning with the popular little J/24 way back in 1977, J/Boats has become famous for its steady introduction of terrific racing and cruising boats, almost all of which shared one main characteristic: They sailed like a witch. More than four decades later, having built more than 50 separate, mind-boggling models, the Johnstone family that designs, markets and sells the brand shows no signs of slowing down. Their latest offering, for 2020, was another fast and fun racer/cruiser: the 32-foot-7-inch J/99. Read more about the J/99 » More: boty , coastal cruiser , new boats , Sailboats More Sailboats For Sale: 1984 Camper & Nicholsons 58 Alubat Updates OVNI Models For Sale: Little Harbor 63 Ketch Sailboat Review: Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 Cruising Tahiti: A Party in Paradise Introducing Bitter End’s Beach Bungalows Digital Edition Customer Service Privacy Policy Terms of Use Email Newsletters Cruising World Sailing World Salt Water Sportsman Sport Fishing Wakeboarding Visit our Popular Forums Monohull Sailboats Multihull Sailboats Powered Boats General Sailing Antares Yachts Fountaine Pajot Lagoon Catamarans Cruising Business Boat Classifieds General Classifieds Crew Positions Commercial Posts Vendor Spotlight Life Aboard a Boat Provisioning: Food & Drink Families, Kids, & Pets Afloat Recreation, Entertainment, & Fun Boat Ownership & Making a Living Liveaboard's Forum Seamanship, Navigation & Boat Handling Seamanship & Boat Handling Training, Licensing, & Certification Health, Safety, & Related Gear Rules of the Road, Regulations, & Red Tape Engineering & Systems Const. / Maint. / Refit Product / Service Reviews Electronics: Comms / AV Electrical: Batts / Gen / Solar Lithium Power Systems Engines & Propulsion Propellers & Drive Systems Plumbing / Fixtures Deck Hdw: Rigging / Sails Aux. Equipment & Dinghy Anchoring & Mooring Photo Categories Member Galleries Life Onboard Sailing in the Wind Power Boats Cruising Destinations Maint. & Boat Building Marine Life Scuba Diving & Divers General Photos Recent Photos Listing Categories African Cats view more » Crew Wanted Crew Available Enhance Your Account Meet the Mods Meet the Advisors Signup for The Daily Cruiser Email   > > Please support our sponsors and let them know you heard about their products on Cruisers Forums. 19-10-2012, 13:22   Boat: Jeanneau 45DS and Coastal skippers respectively. Currently looking for a yacht to . In the for at least a year, maybe more and then possibly . We are completely convinced that a will serve our needs well. We have sailed, among others, a 45.2 and a 473. My Q is how big is too big for 2? We have found that with a yacht set up for easy handling ( in reefing, winches, bow thruster for occasional ease etc ) the size does not seem to be much of a challenge. We are both 40ish and fit. I see a 45ft Jeanneau Sun Oddysey as being suitable but could run to a 50ft if warranted... The advantages of the larger being more space ( duh in the forecabbin ( this matters as I am not short and we need to have some creature comforts ), better sea keeping, a fab lazarette in the bow etc etc.... Now I cant see why this should be disproportionately harder to handle than a 45ft??? Any thoughts? 19-10-2012, 13:26   Boat: In the hunt again, unknown . That said, you might want to think about what it will be like when some of those systems fail, and they will fail, usually at the worst possible moment. The of thumb I have always heard is 50 ft. is the biggest boat for two to handle. But as with every of thumb , that is an opinion. ” 19-10-2012, 14:13   Boat: Jeanneau 45DS and hob, central and kettle. I dont not have them because they will one day fail... Annoyingly, the only yacht that does it all perfectly for us is the new Jeanneau 469. Its so new that there wont be any 2nd user for a while and I cant bring myself to take the depreciation hit on a ... To be a sailor you need a black belt in "Compromise" :-) Mark n Sam 19-10-2012, 14:29   . Maybe it's the style of boat you are looking at? the ones you listed appear to be those aimed at the cram as many bunks in as possible market rather than those centred around a couple (plus / occassional guests). Not that I would turn my nose at any of those you mentioned! My take is that once you get above arm muscle for many things that a bit more size does not really matter if the boat has been set up around a shorthanded crew (and some thought has been given to the what if's). Probably what bites folks on bum with "Too big" is the gap between being able to buy and being able to afford - whilst using, maintaining and enjoying. Of course I am at 30' (with no intention of going bigger!) - Additions Welcome. 19-10-2012, 14:34   Boat: Pearson 39-2 "Sea Story" Visions, which have a spacious foreword stateroom on as little as 42 feet. I would prefer to stay under 40, but we love the layout. If you are planning on upgrading in a few years, you should get one of these now and sell it to us when you upgrade. 19-10-2012, 15:23   Boat: Cruisers Yachts 420 Express 47 and have plenty of living space, but like all other sailboats, wish we had more space. We have winches and (Boom Furler), which allows my wife to hand the boat when I am asleep.... It is a great convieneance for us. Although highly unlikely, I suppose the comments about winches failing is valid. Of course if they fail you always put you handle in and use them as they were intended, just make sure they are large enough from the get go. My primaries are 70.3 and my winches are Harkin 44. Both can easily handle the loads of my boat using the handles, instead of the electric motors. One thing that comes to mind is how big of a boat can you get into a slip or the , doublehanded. Things like a bow thruster might make that boat a little bigger, since you have more control. Another is that if you add more feet, you also add more expensive overall and particularly . are bigger, lines are bigger, engines are bigger and burn more and they all cost more to or replace. Lastly, you should talk to people with a forward state room and ask if they like it. If they are regular cruisers they will tell you it is uncomfortable, especially in rolly seas, either moving or on the hook... The best is a midship (Over teh keel) or second best a rear . So how big is too big.... A boat is too big if you cannot safely double hand it and/or if you cannot afford it. Only you can answer those questions.... 19-10-2012, 16:00   Boat: Bestevaer 49 rigged and without electric winches. Not sure I could handle much more than this on my own (apart from reefing, all our sailing is essentially singlehanded for longer passages as one of us tries to get some sleep). Clifford Ashley Isak Dinesen 19-10-2012, 16:12   Boat: Morgan OI 413 1973 - Aythya 19-10-2012, 16:21   Boat: Bestevaer 49 19-10-2012, 16:34   Boat: Now boatless :-( 19-10-2012, 16:42   Boat: Prior boats: Transpac 49; DeFever 54 rigged without problems during over 5 years of cruising, and through some rather challenging all with only on the and slab reefing on the main and mizzen. I agree with Lass that if you have power assisted reefing and/or winches something will fail at the worst possible time and in the worst possible manner. Nice to have but get accustomed to doing without if you plan on doing any long distance passagemaking. Phil 19-10-2012, 16:47   Boat: 1977 Hinckley Bermuda 40 ? Day to day? I live with my airedale terrier. Went from a 30 to a 37 to a 40 in the last few years. 40 is lots of . Inside. Outside. Lots of . If you gave me a 50? no thanks. Unless I had help. Alone my B40 is all I can handle. And sailing (tho I haven't splashed yet) will be the upper threshold of also. I have lots of singlehand experience, so no problem, but even then it'll be a handful. So how much are you prepared to do? How much help will you have. I had a girlfriend, but she had no interest in working on or cleaning the boat, in or out...so now I'm alone....less mess that way....lol.... 19-10-2012, 16:51   was a joy and he could hand sail it. Everything, and I mean everything, was electric. (only fitting since he was a genius in servo-electric and paid very well in consulting around the world) Anyway, surely if you use the criteria of single-hand to determine "too big", the sky is the limit. 19-10-2012, 16:57   Boat: 63 custom alloy sloop,macwester26,prout snowgoose 37 elite catamaran! 19-10-2012, 17:08   winches) there were times when I could not, with both hands....move the winch handle. The sometimes seemed as rigid as bars of .... just sayin'..... 45 is a lot of boat for 2 people... 50+....planning a party? :>) - Elmore Leonard Thread Tools Rate This Thread : Posting Rules post new threads post replies post attachments edit your posts is are code is are are are No Threads to Display. - - - - - - - Privacy Guaranteed - your email is never shared with anyone, opt out any time. Average Cost of Buying & Owning a Sailboat (2022) Here are the 2022 data for our research on the average cost of buying and owning a sailboat. Examples of Popular Sailboats, and How Much They Cost boat price class one-time cost monthly cost Island Packet 26' medium $25,000 $470 Catalina 22' low budget $2,500 $115 Ocean cruiser 35' low budget $38,000 $450 Luxury yacht 40' expensive $166,000 $1,300 What Does it Cost to Buy a Sailboat? The average price of a new sailboat per foot in USD: under 30 ft: $2,400 per ft 30 - 50 ft: $5,700 - $8,500 per ft over 50 ft: $11,900 - $65,400 per ft On average, second-hand sailboats go at 1/3 - 1/4 of the cost of a new boat: under 30 ft: $815 per ft 30 - 50 ft: $3,020 per ft over 50 ft: $5,100 - $17,000 per ft Price of new sailboats I've looked at the prices of thousands of yachts (really) on one of the largest yacht marketplaces in the world (- not manually, don't worry: with the help of their search function). This is what I came up with: Length Range Low Average High 15-19ft $22,000 $24,000 $27,000 20-24ft $41,000 $50,000 $71,000 25-29ft $71,000 $96,000 $133,000 30-34ft $155,000 $183,000 $260,000 35-39ft $191,000 $251,000 $420,000 40-44ft $245,000 $326,000 $522,000 45-49ft $348,000 $400,000 $526,000 50-60ft $563,000 $654,000 $902,000 80-100ft $5,677,000 $5,889,000 $6,518,000 Source: Yachtworld Q2 2022 The price of new sailboats ranges from roughly $1,412 - $65,433 per foot. I've used these numbers to calculate the following list: Prices per foot in USD Here's the detailed price per foot for all lengths from 20 to 100 feet: Length Range Per Foot 15-19ft $1,412 20-24ft $2,273 25-29ft $3,556 30-34ft $5,719 35-39ft $6,784 40-44ft $7,762 45-49ft $8,511 50-60ft $11,891 80-100ft $65,433 Price of used sailboats We did the same for used catamarans, comparing thousands of listings. Here are the complete data: Length Range Low Average High 15-19ft $5,000 $8,000 $19,000 20-24ft $6,000 $19,000 $59,000 25-29ft $7,000 $30,000 $96,000 30-34ft $9,000 $66,000 $228,000 35-39ft $14,000 $111,000 $392,000 40-44ft $22,000 $150,000 $512,000 45-49ft $36,000 $162,000 $518,000 50-60ft $60,000 $281,000 $897,000 80-100ft $433,000 $1,534,000 $4,720,000 Length Range Per Foot 15-19ft $471 20-24ft $864 25-29ft $1,111 30-34ft $2,063 35-39ft $3,000 40-44ft $3,571 45-49ft $3,447 50-60ft $5,109 80-100ft $17,044 The price of used sailboats ranges from roughly $471-$17,044 per foot. Prices on Craigslist To get an average of the price of a used sailboat, I went over to Craigslist. I took the first 10 relevant search results for sailboats under, and over 30 feet. Of course, the averages here are very speculative, as prices vary from day to day. But it gives a broad range of what to expect. Over 50 feet, listings become meagre. I believe people tend to not place their 80-ft sailboats on Craigslist, but sell it through a broker instead. Median Craigslist price of a used sailboat: under 30 ft: $7,900 over 30 ft: $96,900 Average Craigslist price-per-foot of a used sailboat: under 30 ft: $354 per ft over 30 ft: $1,845 per ft This is what I found on Craigslist under 30 feet: Washington dc. Boat Year Length (ft) Price (USD) Columbia MK II 1975 26 $6,500 Newport 1979 17 $5,000 Catalina 1983 22 $4,950 Macgregor Venture 1977 22 $1,800 Source: Craigslist Washington DC Q2 2022 Los Angeles Boat Year Length (ft) Price (USD) Catalina 1998 25 $18,500 Catalina 1974 27 $13,999 Pacific Seacraft 25 1976 28 $11,500 Newport 1979 28 $10,500 Source: Craigslist Los Angeles Q2 2022 Boat Year Length (ft) Price (USD) Catalina 1983 25 $7,900 Catalina 1985 22 $5,000 O'Day 1977 22 $3,800 Vagabond 1981 17 $3,750 Source: Craigslist Houston Q2 2022 South Florida Boat Year Length (ft) Price (USD) MacGregor 26X 2001 26 $13,999 Cape Dory 1979 25 $8,500 Precision 1990 23 $7,500 Dusky 1998 17 $7,000 Source: Craigslist Miami Q2 2022 Boat Year Length (ft) Price (USD) C&C 1985 27 $12,000 O'Day 1987 27 $11,500 Impulse 1987 21 $8,500 Catalina Capri 1986 22 $7,900 Source: Craigslist New York Q2 2022 Here's what I found for 30 feet and up: Boat Year Length (ft) Price (USD) MeadowLark 1970 37 $43,000 Pearson 323 1983 33 $18,000 O'Day 1988 17 $3,300 Boat Year Length (ft) Price (USD) Cheoy Lee 1984 48 $112,000 Hunter Legend 1996 43 $109,900 Vagabond Ketch 1984 47 $102,000 Marine Technologies Ketch 1979 48 $99,500 Boat Year Length (ft) Price (USD) Trintella 1982 42 $105,000 Hunter 2001 46 $96,900 Hunter 1997 34 $59,000 Mason 1983 43 $49,999 Boat Year Length (ft) Price (USD) Hunter 2005 38 $104,900 Endeavour 1989 51 $99,000 Beneteau 1998 40 $99,000 Hunter 2004 36 $94,500 Boat Year Length (ft) Price (USD) Catalina Mark 2 1998 42 $97,900 X-119 1992 40 $84,000 Cape Dory 32#7 1986 33 $38,000 Irwin Citation 1984 31 $35,000 Leave a comment What Size Catamaran To Sail Around The World Last Updated by Daniel Wade August 30, 2022 Catamarans are generally longer than monohulls, but their accommodations and handling vary widely between sizes. The best size catamaran to sail around the world is 45 to 50 feet. The smallest catamaran with space for long-term provisions and a cabin is around 30 feet in length, and a 55 to 60-foot catamaran is the largest that can be accommodated at most marinas. In this article, we'll go over the different sizes of catamarans and how they handle in the open ocean. Additionally, we'll cover each size category and the best sizes for traveling the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. We sourced the information used in this article from marine design guides and the consensus of experienced catamaran sailors. Table of contents ‍ What Sizes Are Catamarans? Catamarans come in all shapes and sizes, but the smallest models don't have the accommodations required to sail around the world. Most catamarans under 30 feet in length don't have a cabin at all, which is a stark difference that they have with monohulls. Small monohull sailboats often have cabins, as there's plenty of room below on a wide single-hulled sailboat. Monohulls can be as small as 16 to 18 feet and still have a cabin, but catamarans must be much larger to have suitable accommodations. The smallest catamarans are about 12 to 15 feet long. These are small recreational craft used primarily for racing, and they aren't designed for the open ocean. Larger catamarans in the 20-foot range can (and have) been used on the ocean, but they're usually classified as day boats. Catamarans become practical for longer excursions once they hit about 30 feet in length. A boat of this size is large enough for a cabin and can usually accommodate between two and four people comfortably. Catamarans commonly stretch beyond 50 feet, which is where they're the most useful and comfortable. Smallest Catamaran to Sail Around the World So, what's the smallest catamaran you could use to sail around the world? In theory, any catamaran can sail long distances—but you need one that's large enough for shelter and storing provisions. Generally speaking, 30 feet is the bottom limit for an ocean-crossing catamaran. Let's take the ME Cat 30 (Maine Cat) as an example. This small and nimble 30-foot catamaran makes use of its limited space and provides comfortable accommodations for a few adults. The ME Cat 30 is a split design that houses the basic accommodations in either hull, with an open seating area between them. Inside the ME Cat 30, there's barely enough room for all the living spaces. It features a head and a large bed in one hull and a galley and a smaller berth in the other. With that, all the useful cabin space is filled—and this is considered a very good design for the size. As you can see, the best catamarans for sailing across the world are usually much larger. Typical Ocean Crossing Catamaran Size Based on what we discussed above, a 30-foot cruising catamaran is really pushing the limits on size. However, it doesn't take a whole lot more length to make a catamaran exponentially more comfortable and suitable for long journeys. The typical ocean-crossing catamaran is usually about 40 to 45 feet long. With the addition of 10 feet in length, designers can fit an enormous amount of additional accommodations in the hulls. This is because adding a little extra length allows designers and boatbuilders to widen each hull significantly, which makes room for luxuries like private bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, and entirely separate dining and cooking spaces. Cruising Catamaran Floor Plans A 40-foot to 50-foot catamaran usually comes with a mirrored floor plan. The traditional catamaran has an identical layout in each hull. That means if one hull has a private berth in the bow and a shower and a toilet in the stern, the other hull will have the exact same layout except opposite. This is usually because spaces like the galley and sitting area are kept in the center console, where there's much more space to move around. Spaces that are used at night or only occasionally are kept in the narrow hulls, as this has proven to be a more comfortable layout for crews. Storage is usually kept deep in the hulls as well, as there's extra space to work with when the only other design purpose is for sleeping in bathing. Catamarans in this size range can also have separate hull layouts, but the mirrored design is by far the most common. Best Catamaran Size for Pacific Ocean Cruising Catamarans are very versatile craft, but some function better in the Pacific Ocean than others. One of the main considerations when choosing a catamaran for Pacific Travel is that the Pacific usually has greater distances between ports and stopping points. This is especially true on the US West Coast, where there are only a handful of ports and safe anchorages. The best Pacific cruising catamaran size is between 45 and 50 feet in length, as you're likely to need more space to store provisions for extended cruising. If you're starting in San Francisco or Seattle, even a 'short' trip along the coastline could mean you'll pass hundreds of miles of steep rocky cliffs and no stopping points insight. When crossing the Pacific, you may travel thousands of miles before you encounter a port or island with any infrastructure at all, let alone stocks of provisions and a full-service marina. The Pacific is a huge ocean, and the last thing you want to do is run out of food or fuel a thousand miles from your destination. Larger boats store more supplies, and they also give you more breathing room when you're surrounded by empty blue water for months on end. Best Catamaran Size for Atlantic Ocean Cruising The Atlantic Ocean is smaller than the Pacific Ocean, and the coastlines of many countries that border it tend to be well-developed. This makes it easier to get away with owning a smaller boat, as you don't need to store as many supplies, and your voyages will be shorter. Another factor to consider is that not all marinas on the Atlantic can accommodate extremely large catamarans, or it may be prohibitively expensive to dock a 55-foot or 60-foot double-wide vessel. That's why the ideal size for an Atlantic-crossing catamaran is between 40 feet and 50 feet. Today, 45 feet seems to be average. The boat of this size will fit in at most marinas in developed countries around the Atlantic, and its draft is shallow enough for island hopping and exploring the coral reefs that the Atlantic Islands are known for. Additionally, 40 to 50-foot catamarans are usually just as seaworthy as the larger boats, and they're less expensive to maintain. Unlike the US West Coast, where ports are few and far between, the Atlantic in the Gulf of Mexico is littered with marinas and safe anchorages. You can travel for weeks along the coastline of the United States and parts of South America and never be further than a hundred miles from a full-service marina. There are also hundreds of islands, tourist destinations, and service locations that reduce your need for large stores of provisions aboard your catamaran. This gives you a lot more flexibility in choosing a size and a floor plan, as your needs are different than that of a Pacific sailor. Best Catamaran Size for World Cruising If you're planning to go on a world tour or a circumnavigation, you're going to need a catamaran that's large enough to fit your crew and your provisions comfortably. You'll also need a boat that is small enough to be serviced and accommodated in most locations but also seaworthy enough to whether anything you're likely to encounter out of the water. For most people, the sweet spot seems to be around 45 to 50 feet in length. A 50-foot catamaran is more than large enough to store enough provisions for many months of sailing. It's also roomy enough to house two to six people comfortably for many weeks at a time. Catamarans between 40 and 50 feet in length are also extremely seaworthy and have been known to make circumnavigation frequently. You're almost guaranteed to find a 50-foot catamaran in almost any remote anchorage in the world where sailors are known to frequent. Also, almost any marina can accommodate a 50-foot catamaran, and most boatyards can perform at least basic repairs on a boat of this size. Most marinas have fee schedules for boats based on size, and the cutoff for large boats is usually 60 feet. This keeps you in the 'medium' boat category, which can save you thousands. How to Choose a Catamaran Size Choosing the right size catamaran can be challenging, but there are a few things you can do to narrow it down. First, examine how you plan to use the vessel. You can travel the oceans in a catamaran between 30 and 40 feet long, so if you have a small crew, you may want to consider a compact model. Larger catamarans can sleep eight or more people comfortably. This is large enough for most people, though some charter captains may need additional room. A 40 to 45-foot catamaran is usually large enough for a small family, though a 50-footer would be more comfortable, especially if there are kids running around. Related Articles I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing. by this author Most Recent What Does "Sailing By The Lee" Mean? October 3, 2023 The Best Sailing Schools And Programs: Reviews & Ratings September 26, 2023 Important Legal Info Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Similar Posts How To Choose The Right Sailing Instructor August 16, 2023 Cost To Sail Around The World May 16, 2023 Why Do Catamarans Have Trampolines? 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Endeavor Sailboat Popular Cruising Yachts from 35 to 40 feet Length Overall Top Five 40 Foot Sailboats 40 Foot Sailing Yacht Features Appealing Design With Great Performance 40-Foot Sailing Yacht 40 feet sailboat exterior studio COMMENTS Is 40 foot an Ideal size Sailing Boat Net net, 40 foot (35 - 40) is a great size as they are fast enough to give a good long cruising range, large enough inside to be a lot more comfortable than camping, have enough displacement that they don't jerk around in a cop or at anchor and the physical loads aren't too big. 6 Dec 2006. #16. How to Determine the Right Size of Sailboat for Your Needs Medium Sailboats (30-40 feet) Large Sailboats (40-50 feet) Extra-Large Sailboats (50+ feet) Conclusion; Understanding Sailboat Sizes. Sailboats come in a wide range of sizes, typically measured in feet from bow to stern (the front to the back of the boat). The size of a sailboat can greatly influence its performance, handling, and the level of ... Average Sailboat Size A 30-foot sailboat is easy to handle with a two or three-person crew, unlike a 40 or 50-foot vessel which may require mechanical assistance or a few extra hands. A 30-footer can also be crewed by a single person, which allows people to take inexperienced friends or family aboard without relying on them for assistance. What Size Sailboat Do I Need? Sailboat Size Buying Guide 35 to 40 Feet. The range between 36 and 38 feet is a crowded market for sailboats since this size range suits many different needs. There begins to be enough space to spread out, and there is often more than one stateroom with private doors. The boat is big enough to outfit and load up for long-distance cruising for a couple. How Big Should a Sailboat Be to Sail Around the World? The ideal sailboat size to sail around the world is between 35 and 45 feet long. This length will ensure a high enough maximum hull speed, good handling in high waves, and enough cargo capacity to carry multiple weeks of food and water. Longer boats will perform as well, but are more expensive too. What Size Sailboat Can One Person Handle? Well, a sailboat measuring between 35 and 45 feet (10.5 - 14 meters) with a draft of about 2 meters, plenty of sail area, easy reefing, and well-working assistive equipment can be ideal for one person to handle. The boat shouldn't be over 9 tons as things can get a little tricky and out of hand if the boat exceeds this weight. Boat Review: Comparing 40 foot cruisers Paulo Pernão of Interesting Sailboats takes a look at the new mass production 40-foot sailboat offers: the Bavaria 42 C and the Beneteau Oceanis 40.1: Judging by the name the Bavaria is not a ... Sailboat Size Guide for Beginners and PROs Is a 30-foot sailboat big? A 30-foot sailboat is big enough for a couple setting out for a long distance. Many sailboat brands of this size make it comfortable for two people. The boat has a sleeping space, toilet, shower, food storage, sink, and stove that make it comfortable for two people. ... It is very possible to single-hand a 40-foot or ... Do You Really Need a Bigger Boat? When my wife and I sailed around the world, the stereotypical cruising sailboat was a 35-40-foot sloop, cutter or ketch sailed by a two-person crew. In those days, boats tended to be older and crews were younger. ... This ensured that the big boats had enough talent to cope with the big challenges always found at sea. Names like Kialoa ... How Big Of A Sailboat Can One Person Handle? A beginner should stay below 40 feet until they get some experience. With moderate experience, one person can comfortably handle a 45-foot sailboat. To exceed 45 feet, you want to have a high level of experience and a boat with systems to assist you in handling your sails and equipment. As with everything else related to sailing, the ability to ... Class 40 Sailing: First Impressions Reviewing a Class 40 Interior. Down below a Class 40 like the Pogo 40 is a true miracle regarding space. She is a 40 ft. boat - I personally find 40 feet with more than 12.50 meters huge compared to my 33 ft. King´s Cruiser - but due to her extreme width of 4.50 meters internal space is just huge! Even with 5 adults leaving their berths ... How Big Of A Sailboat Can One Person Handle? Electric winches on a 40-foot sailboat are really nice to have and are nothing compared to the monsters one finds on large sailboats. I sailed to Bermuda on an 83-foot sailboat with hydraulic winches, and they were impressive. And huge. I spoke to Jonathan Bartlett, who runs the Annapolis loft for North Sails. North Sails is a big player in ... Sailboat Buying Guide: Choosing The Right Sailboat FIBERGLASS - The most common used material in boat building for the past 40 years, fiberglass is strong and flexible. It can easily conform to smooth, round shapes making for slick, fast boat designs. ... The majority of cruising boats are in the 35-45-foot range but that doesn't mean you can't cross oceans, comfortably and safely in a 24 ... What Is A Good Size Sailboat To Live On? For a sailboat to be considered as a liveaboard, it needs to be at least 30ft. Anything smaller and the boat will be cramped for anyone other than a solo sailor. However, the larger the boat, the greater the cost of ownership. The ideal size sailboat to live on would be 35-45 feet for most people. What Size Sailboat Do I Need? Must-Read Before You Choose Consider your needs before buying your boat. If you are a solo sailor or have a huge family, if you cruise or race, or if you want to sail the ocean, your needs and size of the boat will change. Most sailboats range between 15-40 feet. Depending on your needs, you may need 15-25 or 25-40 feet. Table of Contents. Popular Cruising Yachts from 40 to 45ft (12.2m to ... Slipper 42; Slocum 43; Swan 43 (S&S); Sweden Yachts 42; Trintella 44; Westerly Oceanlord 41; Whitby 42; With plenty of room for a cruising couple to live aboard comfortably, production cruising boats within this size range are understandably very popular with long distance sailors. However, marina charges worldwide seem to take a bit of a hike ... What's the Smallest Boat You Should Take Offshore? Grady-White's Canyon series starts at around 27 feet LOA, which is probably the minimum length for a well-designed boat fishing the closer canyons. A boat like the Canyon 271 does well offshore thanks to its capable SeaV2 hull, which features a sharp 55 degrees of deadrise at the entry, 30 degrees amidships, and 20 degrees at the stern. 10 New Cruising Sailboats Under 35 Feet It wasn't so long ago that 30- to 35-foot cruising sailboats were likely to be the largest yachts found in many a harbor. And while 40-something and even 50-something footers are all the rage at boat shows today, there's a lot to be said for setting sail on a boat big enough to carry family and friends, but still small enough to be easily maintained and handled alone from time to time. Boat Size 40-ish and fit you should be able to handle a boat up to 50 feet manually. The only concern being docking in challenging conditions but 90% of the time there will be dock handlers available. Get as big as you can afford and maintain. The size is a personal choice but if you feel you "need" 50 get 50. Average Cost of Buying & Owning a Sailboat (2022) What Does it Cost to Buy a Sailboat? The average price of a new sailboat per foot in USD: under 30 ft: $2,400 per ft. 30 - 50 ft: $5,700 - $8,500 per ft. over 50 ft: $11,900 - $65,400 per ft. On average, second-hand sailboats go at 1/3 - 1/4 of the cost of a new boat: under 30 ft: $815 per ft. 30 - 50 ft: $3,020 per ft. 9 Perfectly Sized Sailboats To Live On! 7. Nordic 40. This boat is quite a bit larger than some of these other options, so if you want a good-sized choice, it might be the right boat for you. It has a big interior that one or two people will comfortably live inside. Even if you need to spend a lot of time indoors in inclement weather, this may be ideal sailing boat. This is also a ... 40 Foot Boats & Yachts For Sale Explore used yachts and boats for sale worldwide between 40-49 feet. Vessels in this size range are perfect starter yachts to get your feet wet in the yachting world. A 40 foot boats is great for couples or families looking to take extended weekend trips and anglers who enjoy inshore and offshore fishing. Most 40 ft yachts feature 1-2 cabins ... What Size Catamaran To Sail Around The World August 30, 2022. Catamarans are generally longer than monohulls, but their accommodations and handling vary widely between sizes. The best size catamaran to sail around the world is 45 to 50 feet. The smallest catamaran with space for long-term provisions and a cabin is around 30 feet in length, and a 55 to 60-foot catamaran is the largest that ... catamaran gulet motorboat powerboat riverboat sailboat trimaran yacht