30 foot sailboat

Better Sailing

Best Sailboats Under 30 Feet

Small sailboats are attractive for many reasons, one of them being is that they are not as expensive and out of your budget. They are also great for learning how to sail as they are easily maneuverable. However, sailboats around the 30 feet mark provide the best of both worlds as they are both great and easy for sailing but are also big enough for you to spend a few days onboard for a weekend sailing trip, for example. If you are looking to buy a sailboat that will fit this bill, this list of the best sailboats under 30 feet with the amenities available in a large vessel.

Here are the best sailboats under 30 feet in no particular order.

The Hunter 27 is one of the most popular sailboats under 30 feet and has the numbers to prove it with over 2000 of these boats sold. The Hunter 27 is a series of sailboats, built by Marlow Hunter in Florida, USA, since 1974. Variations of the Hunter 27 are still being produced today. This sailboat is great under sail but is also powered by a 14 HP Yanmar engine. If you are looking for a small, affordable sailboat that can accommodate a couple or a small family for a few days out on the water, then look no further than a Hunter 27. Finally, you can find used Hunter 27 in good condition from the early ’80s for around 10k and newer models from the 2010s’ for up to 50k.

It is a comfortable and speedy sailboat with ample space below the deck. It is open and airy. Named after its designer, Alan Andrews, he is known for creating fast race boats and lights. This is a 28-footer sailboat that is definitely suited for club racing. It has a galley, 6 berths, head, and nav area. This boat is so spacious that you would forget that this is a sailboat under 30 feet. It has a retractable keel, which makes it easy to launch and haul. This ensures it to be a racer as well as a daysailer. Finally, a used Andrews 28 in good condition is going for around $25,000-40,000.

This is a multi-aspect sailboat that tries to bridge a gap between a family, comfortable, safe, and competitive racer. It is done quite well in doing so. This sailboat was able to win the 1970 IOR North America Half-Ton Cup, which proves that it not only has the looks but speed too. Speed is not the only strength of the ranger 26 as it also has a spacious cockpit which is over 7 feet. It has a good balance of cabin height and freeboard, giving it a great profile that hasn’t been sacrificed for standing headroom. Also, the Ranger 26 is one of the largest trailable sailboats. Finally, a used Ranger 26 from the 70s’ in good condition is going for around $10,000-15,000.

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats Under 100k

This sailboat is one of the most innovative and unusual boats in the whole bunch. It has a contemporary profile topside and also an inviting floor plan below the deck; this boat is both comfortable and stylish. The Etap uses a double hull construction method that makes the ship almost unsinkable. This sailboat has 6 berths, a nav area, and a galley, but you will not feel crowded in the back. The back area is equipped with many hatches and ports that make extend the space. Finally, a used Etap 28s in good condition is going for around $20,000-60,000 depending on the age of the boat.

>>Also Read: Etap 24i Review

This boat came started its production in the year 1971, and it was an instant success in the local racing scenes. As this is a modest 27-footer, the Newport 27 has a great spacious interior and has over 6 feet of standing headroom. It has 4 berths, nav station, galley, and head. It has all the amenities that you will find in a bigger boat but in a compact package. This boat is quick in light air; however, the tiller steering starts to get out of control once the breeze increases and the weather leads to end your sail early. Finally, a used Newport 27 from the 70s’ or 80s’ in good condition is going for around $6,000-11,000.

Catalina 275 Sport

The Catalina is known for their large cruising boats, but they also have small boats too. The Catalina 275 offers both great performance and an enjoyable sailing experience packed on a 27’6 trailable sailboat. This boat has a hand-laminated fiberglass hull and is extremely versatile. Like most boats that are built by Catalina, this boat has a huge self-bailing cockpit. It also a nice saloon below deck, which transforms into a comfortable v berth. Also, it has a nice galley with a big cooler drawer to pack your essentials for your sailing trip. The standard equipment has a tiller extension and hiking straps. This boat will convince you that you do not need a sailboat over 300 feet to enjoy a nice weekend sailing adventure. A new Catalina 275 starts at around $75,000, and a recent-year used one for around $60,000.

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats to Live On

Catalina 22 Capri and Catalina 22 Sport

The Catalina 22 is extremely comfortable, safe at sea, and easier to handle and maintain than any boat in its class. The beautiful deck profile is flat across the stern. It has wider cockpit curves for optimum sailing comfort during and after sailing. These are very popular trailer sailers that are widely used in both ocean sailing and lake sailing, and daysailors swear by both models. The Catalina 22 was first built in 1969, and it is still being produced in the US. The Catalina 22 is one of the most produced boats in its size range and has achieved huge commercial success. Finally, you can purchase a new Catalina 22 starts at around $25,000, but since this model has been around since the 60s’ you can still pick an early-year model up from the 70s’ for as low as $3,000.

Island Packet 27

This is an American-made sailboat first built in the 1980s’. The Island Packet 27   is a recreational keelboat made out of fiberglass, with beautiful teak trim and holly cabin sole plywood. It is a Cutter-rigged sloop, with a spooned raked stem, a vertical transom, a keel-mounted rudder, and a full keel. It has a displacement of 8,000 lb and carries 3,000 lb of ballast. Keep in mind that the Packet 27 is a cruiser and not suitable for racing. The broad beam gives an unusually spacious interior for a sailboat under 30 feet. This boat sails very well, it has a big boat feel to it, it is very solid, and you won’t get thrown around in it; what else do you need? Finally, a used Island Packet 27 in good condition is going for around $30,000-45,000 depending on the age of the boat.

>>Also Read: Best Pocket Cruisers Under 20 Feet

This boat was first introduced in the year 1969; the Balboa 26 continues to dominate in the budget-friendly cruisers. This boat is heavy and sturdy; the boat’s stress points are reinforced. The cockpit can take 4 adults at a time. It is self-bailing, making sure that the sailors remain dry. This beautiful sailboat is only 26 feet. Still, the balboa 26 still has room for a double berth, a freshwater pump, galley with a stove, and an optional V-berth or marine head. It can adjust five people for sleeping, but the ideal number would be two or three. When the Balboa is under sail, it is maneuverable and fast. It will also prove handy in the heavy breeze when the weather helm increases. Finally, a used Balboa 26 from the 70s’ is going for around $3,000-6,000.

Cape Dory 28

The teak accents and sleek lines of the Cape Dory 28 is an eye-catcher; the performance of this boat is also remarkable. This boat comes with almost all the amenities a bigger boat is equipped with. It comes with 2 settees, V-berth, and ahead. This boat is sound, safe, and comfortable while being capable of speed. The Cape Dory 28 is quick in light wind and capable and sturdy in heavy air. This boat deserves its praise when it comes in off the wind. It has a balanced helm and also the ability to cut through chop and still be able to tack easily. Finally, a used Cape Dory 28 in good condition is going for around $20,000 depending on the age of the boat.

Islander Bahama 28

While this remains an eye-catcher, along with the 5-foot-6inch draft and with the 3,300 pounds of ballet, this boat sails swiftly and beautifully while responding quickly to the helm. This boat is inspired by the International Offshore Rule; this boat is unusually wide and offers stability in the breeze without sacrificing the lines and sheer, which makes it attractive. The Bahamas below its deck has plenty of berth and storage space with a galley complete with stove, sink, and icebox. Finally, a used Cape Dory 28 in good condition is going for around $9,000-15,000 depending on the age of the boat.

Contessa 26

This boat was released in the year 1965, and it then and there proved to be a strong, lightweight cruise boat. This boat has been proving itself since its first sail and a great choice for two people. Even though the boat is sturdy, the upwind came sometimes disturbs the direction. This boat does have much standing headroom, but it performs well as a daysailer. Finally, a used Contessa 26 in good condition is going for around $10,000 depending on the age of the boat.

Final Thoughts

Sailboats under 30 feet are great because they are affordable and provide the best of everything. Almost all of them handle great, they are easy to maintain and provide all the necessary amenities for trips up to a few days long. Sailboats under 30 feet are not ideal for passages but make if you are willing to increase your budget and go a little bigger then these are the best small sailboats for circumvention .

Remember, if you are looking for a small sailboat under 30 feet for your summer or weekend sailing expeditions, then any of the above mentioned will do the trick.

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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Best Small Cruiser, 30 feet and Under: Beneteau First 30

• By Bill Springer
• Updated: December 9, 2010

Beneteau First 30 BOTY winner

As they approached the First 30 to conduct their dockside evaluation during the boat show, the BOTY judges may have been just a little skeptical of this performance-oriented 30-footer’s cruisability. But that skepticism turned into appreciation as soon as they stepped below, and they were downright enamored with how the boat sailed. As a result, the Beneteau First 30 was named the Best Small Cruiser, 30 Feet and Under.

It’s not easy to include all the accommodation features that make for comfortable cruising—standing headroom, full-size head and galley, decent nav station, roomy saloon, and good-size sleeping cabins—in a 30-footer that’s also good-looking and whip fast under sail, but the First 30 does just that. The main saloon is bright and airy, and it’s also much more creature-comfort oriented than what you might find on older 30-foot performance cruisers. The cabins have ample bunks and adequate stowage. Nearly 6 feet of headroom in the saloon creates a good sense of space, while the light-colored varnished woodwork and clean lines are downright stylish.

Meanwhile, during the test sail, none of the judges wanted to give up the tiller because the boat was just so fun and responsive. The dual rudders provided superior control, even when the heel angle increased in the puffs, and the judges noted how this little thoroughbred sliced to windward at 6.5 knots in 12 knots of breeze. The judges found the cockpit to be comfortable and the sail controls to be well planned and efficient. A tweak here and there was rewarded by another quarter of a knot, though it was just as tempting to contemplate the benefits of simply setting the sheets and then humming along for 20 or 30 miles on a coastal cruise.

Winning Details

• The use of space throughout the interior is excellent.
• The boat’s torpedo bulb keel, powerful sail plan, and dual rudders make the First both fast and forgiving.
• The boat significantly ups the ante regarding what’s currently available in the 30-foot-and-under range.

To read more Cruising World reviews of Beneteau sailboats, click here . To visit Beneteau America’s website, click here .

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Catalina 30

Catalina 30 is a 29 ′ 11 ″ / 9.1 m monohull sailboat designed by Frank V. Butler and built by Catalina Yachts between 1976 and 2008.

• 2 / 12 Freeport, TX, US 1979 Catalina 30 $20,000 USD View
• 3 / 12 Portland, OR, US 1979 Catalina 30 $24,900 USD View
• 4 / 12 Freeport, TX, US 1979 Catalina 30 $20,000 USD View
• 5 / 12 Freeport, TX, US 1979 Catalina 30 $20,000 USD View
• 6 / 12 Freeport, TX, US 1979 Catalina 30 $20,000 USD View
• 7 / 12 Freeport, TX, US 1979 Catalina 30 $20,000 USD View
• 8 / 12 Freeport, TX, US 1979 Catalina 30 $20,000 USD View
• 9 / 12 Freeport, TX, US 1979 Catalina 30 $20,000 USD View
• 10 / 12 Freeport, TX, US 1979 Catalina 30 $20,000 USD View
• 11 / 12 Freeport, TX, US 1979 Catalina 30 $20,000 USD View
• 12 / 12 Freeport, TX, US 1979 Catalina 30 $20,000 USD View

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

With more than 6000 sold, the Catalina 30 is one of the most successful production sailing yachts in history. During the long production run of this basic model there were a great number of variations with standard and tall rig configurations, each with a bowsprit option, and also including shoal, wing and deep fin keels. A MK II version began around hull# 3300 (1986).(T-shaped cockpit is the most notable change) The Mark III (1994) (walk-thru transom with boarding/swim platform standard though offered as an option on earlier models.) Aux. power: The early Yanmar, Universal 5411 and Atomic-4 engines were phased out in favor of the 3-cylinder Universal M-25 diesels during the middle 80s.

SHOAL DRAFT: 4.30’/1.31m SHOAL DRAFT (WING): 3.83’/1.17m

ALT.RIG DIMENSIONS: TALL: I: 43.00’/13.11m J: 13.15’/4.01m P: 37.50’/11.43m E: 12.00’/3.66m SA (100%): 507.73ft2/47.17m2

BOWSPRIT OPTION (STD): I: 41.00’/12.50m J: 13.15’/4.01m P: 37.00’/11.28m E: 12.00’/3.66m SA (100%): 491.58ft2/45.67m2 (photo from Catalina brochure)

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Catalina 30 MKIII

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Oceanis 30.1

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The Oceanis 30.1 is easy to sail, yet  lively to helm  and promises new  experiences and thrills . This robust, smart little cruiser is small enough to trail, opening up endless possibilities for lake and river sailing, as well as  coastal sailing  and high sea adventures.

NAVAL ARCHITECT : Finot - Conq

INTERIOR and DECK DESIGNS : Nauta Design

Exterior design

With a stemhead, hard-chine hull, well-proportioned sides and coachroof, the Oceanis 30.1 artfully resembles a small yacht.

The Finot-Conq plan has met the double challenge of power and simple navigation. With her slender bow, optimized weight, and square-top mainsail, she performs well in all points of sail.

For beginners or for short-handed sailing, the self-tacking jib and the single winch make her easy to handle. For performance, the Oceanis 30.1 has a large overlapping genoa, a furling code zero and an asymmetric spinnaker. Aft, a step affords access to the sea and can be supplemented by a small lifting platform.  

Interior design

With a few extra inches won in strategic places, the Oceanis 30.1 differs from other boats thanks to a headspace of 6.5 ft in all the areas inside where it is comfortable to stand.

The two sizable double cabins each have berths running lengthwise and an open entryway making them feel particularly spacious. The two benches in the salon provide an additional place for two extra berths.

The large shower room is divided into a marine toilet on one side and shower and washbasin on the other. At the foot of the gently sloping companionway, the L-shaped galley has top and bottom storage, a 20 US Gal refrigerator and a real oven under the gas hob stove top.

FOR EVERYONE

With unbeatable living space for its size and a focus on simplicity of use, the smallest model of the cruising range is nevertheless stylish and fast, with a highly competitive, ready-to-sail price. 

TRAILERABLE

With an overall size of under 30 X 10 ft and a weight of 8,000 lbs, the Oceanis 30.1 can be trailered by road, without the issues of an extra-wide load. With the lifting keel and rotating tabernacle mast version, the cruiser can sail along canals and rivers to its sailing grounds. 

CHOICE OF HELM

On the Oceanis 30.1, sailors get to choose between a tiller with twin rudders for anyone seeking a few thrills or from the world of dinghy sailing, or twin steering wheels for anyone who prefers space and comfort!  

FUNCTIONAL COCKPIT

The double steering wheel layout results in a wonderfully big cockpit. On either side of the large fold-away table are two large benches, which comfortably seat up to six guests.

Oceanis 30.1 Electric

Silent, comfortable and emission free, the new Oceanis 30.1e now has an all-electric propulsion system that offers a unique boating experience.

With engine power equal to 14 HP, the Torqeedo engine has a range of up to 6 hours at 4 knots.

Equipped With SEANAPPS

The easiest way to keep your boat safe and ready to cruise anytime.

The new Seanapps  app is the ultimate solution to help you indulge your passion for boating. With the touch of your finger, you can easily connect, monitor and order services for your boat – from routine maintenance, to requesting a wash or fuel or having us complete a repair.

The information below is intended for general informational purposes only and is subject to change without notice and does not constitute a contractual agreement. Any descriptions, representations, or statements made in this document are not to be considered binding unless explicitly stated otherwise in a formal contractual agreement.

Length Overall

Beam overall

Light displacement

Air Draft Max

Fuel Capacity

Water Capacity

Max. engine power

Cabin Number

CE Certification

B6 / C8 / D10

Polar diagrams

Documents produced by Finot-Conq Architectes

Drifting keel

Deep draught keel - genoa

Deep draught keel - Foc autovireur

Short draught keel - foc autovireur

There are 3 ballasts available, so you can sail in your configuration of choice.

Shallow draft

Performance draft (hydraulic swing keel)

• Large benches seating six guests, with a fold away table
• Tiller or twin steering wheels on twin rudders
• Tilting mast
• Square-top mainsail
• Raymarine Electronic Pack
• EC certification: B6 / C8 / D10 (10 passengers aboard)

2 CABINS & 2 HEADS

• L-shaped fitted galley: fridge, sink, two-ring hob, oven, storage and worktop
• Lounge bench seats that convert to extra berths
• Master cabin with double berth at the bow
• Aft cabin with twin berths
• Shower room, with shower compartment and marine toilet
• Gently sloping companionway (4 steps)

HARKEN HARDWARE

Press Reviews

Cruising world.

Cruising World Judges named the BENETEAU Oceanis 30.1 the Best Performance Cruiser for 2020.   Read more

NorthWest Yachting

Boat Review - Everyone is talking about the 2020 Beneteau Oceanis 30.1 and for good reason—she’s an awesome boat! 

SAIL Magazine

Winner of the “small cruiser” category in SAIL magazine’s  2020 Best Boats contest. Read More

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Buying a BENETEAU doesn’t have to be a daunting task. We have teams of experts to guide you through the entire process – everything from sea trials, financing, and customization to after-sale commissioning, service, and maintenance. We are proud to have one of the largest, most highly-regarded dealer networks in the world. We’re ready to provide you with the assistance and expertise needed to launch you and your BENETEAU on a lifetime of happy, rewarding, and memorable voyages.

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4.18 m / 13’9’’

14.6 m / 47’11’’

4.5 m / 14’9’’

15.94 m / 52’4’’

4.8 m / 15’9’’

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Home » Blog » Buy a boat » 5 best small sailboats for sailing around the world

5 best small sailboats for sailing around the world

By Author Fiona McGlynn

Posted on Last updated: April 19, 2023

A small sailboat can take you big places

Small sailboats are the ticket to going cruising NOW — not when you retire, save up enough money, or find the “perfect” bluewater cruising boat. In fact, it’s the first principle in Lin and Larry Pardey’s cruising philosophy: “Go small, go simple, go now.”

Small yachts can be affordable, simple, and seaworthy . However, you won’t see many of them in today’s cruising grounds. In three years and 13,000 nautical miles of bluewater cruising, I could count the number of under 30-foot sailboats I’ve seen on one hand (all of them were skippered by people in their 20s and 30s).

Today’s anchorages are full of 40, 50, and 60-foot-plus ocean sailboats, but that’s not to say you can’t sail the world in a small sailboat. Just look at Alessandro di Benedetto who in 2010 broke the record for the smallest boat to sail around the world non-stop in his 21-foot Mini 6.5 .

So long as you don’t mind forgoing a few comforts, you can sail around the world on a small budget .

What makes a good blue water sailboat

While you might not think a small sailboat is up to the task of going long distances, some of the best bluewater sailboats are under 40 feet.

However, if you’re thinking about buying a boat for offshore cruising, there are a few things to know about what makes a small boat offshore capable .

Smaller equals slower

Don’t expect to be sailing at high speeds in a pocket cruiser. Smaller displacement monohulls are always going to be slower than larger displacement monohulls (see the video below to learn why smaller boats are slower). Therefore a smaller cruiser is going to take longer on a given passage, making them more vulnerable to changes in weather.

A few feet can make a big difference over a week-long passage. On the last leg of our Pacific Ocean crossing, our 35-foot sailboat narrowly avoid a storm that our buddy boat, a 28-foot sailboat, couldn’t. Our friend was only a knot slower but it meant he had to heave to for a miserable three days.

Small but sturdy

If a pocket cruiser encounters bad weather, they will be less able to outrun or avoid it. For this reason, many of the blue water sailboats in this list are heavily built and designed to take a beating.

Yacht design has changed dramatically over the last 50 years. Today, new boats are designed to be light and fast. The small sailboats in our list are 30-plus year-old designs and were built in a time when weather forecasts were less accurate and harder to come by.

Back in the day, boat were constructed with thicker fiberglass hulls than you see in modern builds. Rigs, keels, rudders, hulls and decks – everything about these small cruising sailboats was designed to stand up to strong winds and big waves. Some of the boats in this post have skeg-hung rudders and most of them are full keel boats.

The pros and cons of pocket cruiser sailboats

Pocket cruiser sailboats present certain advantages and disadvantages.

More affordable

Their smaller size makes them affordable bluewater sailboats. You can often find great deals on pocket cruisers and sometimes you can even get them for free.

You’ll also save money on retrofits and repairs because small cruising sailboats need smaller boat parts (which cost a lot less) . For example, you can get away with smaller sails, ground tackle, winches, and lighter lines than on a bigger boat.

Moorage, haul-outs, and marine services are often billed by foot of boat length . A small sailboat makes traveling the world , far more affordable!

When something major breaks (like an engine) it will be less costly to repair or replace than it would be on a bigger boat.

Less time consuming

Smaller boats tend to have simpler systems which means you’ll spend less time fixing and paying to maintain those systems. For example, most small yachts don’t have showers, watermakers , hot water, and electric anchor windlasses.

On the flip side, you’ll spend more time collecting water (the low-tech way) . On a small sailboat, this means bucket baths, catching fresh water in your sails, and hand-bombing your anchor. Though less convenient, this simplicity can save you years of preparation and saving to go sailing.

Oh, and did I mention that you’ll become a complete water meiser? Conserving water aboard becomes pretty important when you have to blue-jug every drop of it from town back to your boat.

Easier to sail

Lastly, smaller boats can be physically easier to sail , just think of the difference between raising a sail on a 25-foot boat versus a 50-foot boat! You can more easily single-hand or short-hand a small sailboat. For that reason, some of the best solo blue water sailboats are quite petite.

As mentioned above small boats are slow boats and will arrive in port, sometimes days (and even weeks) behind their faster counterparts on long offshore crossings.

Consider this scenario: two boats crossed the Atlantic on a 4,000 nautical mile route. The small boat averaged four miles an hour, while the big boat averaged seven miles an hour. If both started at the same time, the small boat will have completed the crossing two weeks after the larger sailboat!

Less spacious

Living on a boat can be challenging — living on a small sailboat, even more so! Small cruising boats don’t provide much in the way of living space and creature comforts.

Not only will you have to downsize when you move onto a boat  you’ll also have to get pretty creative when it comes to boat storage.

It also makes it more difficult to accommodate crew for long periods which means there are fewer people to share work and night shifts.

If you plan on sailing with your dog , it might put a small boat right out of the question (depending on the size of your four-legged crew member).

Less comfortable

It’s not just the living situation that is less comfortable, the sailing can be pretty uncomfortable too! Pocket cruisers tend to be a far less comfortable ride than larger boats as they are more easily tossed about in big ocean swell.

Here are our 5 favorite small blue water sailboats for sailing around the world

When we sailed across the Pacific these were some of the best small sailboats that we saw. Their owners loved them and we hope you will too!

The boats in this list are under 30 feet. If you’re looking for something slightly larger, you might want to check out our post on the best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet .

Note: Price ranges are based on SailboatListings.com and YachtWorld.com listings for Aug. 2018

Albin Vega 27($7-22K USD)

The Albin Vega has earned a reputation as a bluewater cruiser through adventurous sailors like Matt Rutherford, who in 2012 completed a 309-day solo nonstop circumnavigation of the Americas via Cape Horn and the Northwest Passage (see his story in the documentary Red Dot on the Ocean ). 

• Hull Type: Long fin keel
• Hull Material: GRP (fibreglass)
• Length Overall:27′ 1″ / 8.25m
• Waterline Length:23′ 0″ / 7.01m
• Beam:8′ 1″ / 2.46m
• Draft:3′ 8″ / 1.12m
• Rig Type: Masthead sloop rig
• Displacement:5,070lb / 2,300kg
• Designer:Per Brohall
• Builder:Albin Marine AB (Swed.)
• Year First Built:1965
• Year Last Built:1979
• Number Built:3,450

Cape Dory 28 ($10-32K USD) 

This small cruising sailboat is cute and classic as she is rugged and roomy. With at least one known circumnavigation and plenty of shorter bluewater voyages, the Cape Dory 28 has proven herself offshore capable.

• Hull Type: Full Keel
• Length Overall:28′ 09″ / 8.56m
• Waterline Length:22′ 50″ / 6.86m
• Beam:8’ 11” / 2.72m
• Draft:4’ 3” / 1.32m
• Rig Type:Masthead Sloop
• Displacement:9,300lb / 4,218kg
• Sail Area/Displacement Ratio:52
• Displacement/Length Ratio:49
• Designer: Carl Alberg
• Builder: Cape Dory Yachts (USA)
• Year First Built:1974
• Year Last Built:1988
• Number Built: 388

Dufour 29 ($7-23K)

As small bluewater sailboats go, the Dufour 29 is a lot of boat for your buck. We know of at least one that sailed across the Pacific last year. Designed as a cruiser racer she’s both fun to sail and adventure-ready. Like many Dufour sailboats from this era, she comes equipped with fiberglass molded wine bottle holders. Leave it to the French to think of everything!

• Hull Type: Fin with skeg-hung rudder
• Length Overall:29′ 4″ / 8.94m
• Waterline Length:25′ 1″ / 7.64m
• Beam:9′ 8″ / 2.95m
• Draft:5′ 3″ / 1.60m
• Displacement:7,250lb / 3,289kg
• Designer:Michael Dufour
• Builder:Dufour (France)
• Year First Built:1975
• Year Last Built:1984

Vancouver 28 ($15-34K)

A sensible small boat with a “go-anywhere” attitude, this pocket cruiser was designed with ocean sailors in mind. One of the best cruising sailboats under 40 feet, the Vancouver 28 is great sailing in a small package.

• Hull Type:Full keel with transom hung rudder
• Length Overall: 28′ 0″ / 8.53m
• Waterline Length:22’ 11” / 6.99m
• Beam:8’ 8” / 2.64m
• Draft:4’ 4” / 1.32m
• Rig Type: Cutter rig
• Displacement:8,960lb / 4,064 kg
• Designer: Robert B Harris
• Builder: Pheon Yachts Ltd. /Northshore Yachts Ltd.
• Year First Built:1986
• Last Year Built: 2007
• Number Built: 67

Westsail 28 ($30-35K)

Described in the 1975 marketing as “a hearty little cruiser”, the Westsail 28 was designed for those who were ready to embrace the cruising life. Perfect for a solo sailor or a cozy cruising couple!

• Hull Type: Full keel with transom hung rudder
• Hull Material:GRP (fibreglass)
• Length Overall:28′ 3” / 8.61m
• Waterline Length:23’ 6” / 7.16m
• Beam:9’ 7” / 2.92m
• Displacement:13,500lb / 6,124kg
• Designer: Herb David
• Builder: Westsail Corp. (USA)
• Number Built:78

Feeling inspired? Check out the “go small” philosophy of this 21-year-old who set sail in a CS 27.

Fiona McGlynn is an award-winning boating writer who created Waterborne as a place to learn about living aboard and traveling the world by sailboat. She has written for boating magazines including BoatUS, SAIL, Cruising World, and Good Old Boat. She’s also a contributing editor at Good Old Boat and BoatUS Magazine. In 2017, Fiona and her husband completed a 3-year, 13,000-mile voyage from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia on their 35-foot sailboat.

Saturday 1st of September 2018

Very useful list, but incomplete - as it would necessarily be, considering the number of seaworthy smaller boats that are around.

In particular, you missed/omitted the Westerly "Centaur" and its follow-on model, the "Griffon". 26 feet LOA, bilge-keelers, weighing something over 6000 pounds, usually fitted with a diesel inboard.

OK, these are British designs, and not that common in the US, but still they do exist, they're built like tanks, and it's rumored that at least one Centaur has circumnavigated.

Friday 31st of August 2018

This is a helpful list, thank you. I don't think most people would consider a 28' boat a pocket cruiser, though!

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PLAY HARDER   DEHLER 30 one design

Adrenaline in the blood. The gennaker fills in the gusts and the log jumps to between 9 and 14 knots. A triumphant smile tugs at your lips, as you anticipate crossing the line. Later, put your feet up with a cold drink in hand and go back over the day in comfort with the crew. Good for both comfort and adventure; that's the Dehler 30 one design. It’s a master of both worlds. Switch from regatta mode to cruising mode in just a few simple steps. Whether it’s the Baltic 500, the Silver Rudder or a short cruise with friends. From the very first glance, it becomes clear that the Dehler 30 one design sets a new, uncompromising course. It is designed for maximum performance with the simplest handling – and yet unmistakably a Dehler. A well-thought-out package that leaves nothing to be desired and raises the bar in this class of boat. From the Dehler Carbon Cage, carbon mast, bowsprit and twin rudders, to the composite T-keel and the Dehler Stealth Drive – even the standard equipment makes for blistering performance. And that is what it’s all about.

• Length over all 10.30 m
• Hull Length 9.14 m
• Beam 3.28 m
• Displacement standard 2.8 t
• Draught standard 2.20 m

DEHLER 30 ONE DESIGN CLASS ASSOCIATION

“We want to become a modern class that is open to everyone, grows rapidly and sets new accents in offshore regatta sport with a large field at a high sporting level” (Felix Hauß, Speedsailing.de)

The aim of the class association is to promote recreational and competitive sports with the Dehler 30 one design yachts and to administer the class rules. Under the direction of Uwe Barthel (chairman), Karl Dehler (technical chairman), Felix Hauß (sports administrator) and Andreas Deubel (treasurer), the association sets course for national and international regatta events. The Dehler 30 one design is to establish itself just as quickly at international regattas.

ALL FOR ONE   AND ONE FOR ALL

Karl dehler – project manager – hanse yachts plc.

“I am very happy that we can finally implement such an exciting one design project in Germany again!” The driving force in the development of the Dehler 30 one design is Karl Dehler, project manager of Hanse Yachts PLC. As the son of Dehler founder Willi Dehler, he is passionate about sailing. For Dehler, he has contributed to numerous innovations and trend-setting inventions. And the successes speak for themselves: under Karl's management, Dehler has already won numerous prestigious awards and has been repeatedly honored and nominated for the titles Boat of the Year and European Boat of the Year. His expertise, competence and above all his passion are based on years of experience as an active regatta sailor. Together with Torsten Conradi, he won the world championship title in 1984 on the db2 positron.

Torsten Conradi – MD – judel/vrolijk & co

“After so many joint projects and regattas with Kalle Dehler, this enterprise is a true labor of love.” A native of Bremen, Torsten Conradi has been the third partner of the world-renowned yacht designer judel / vrolijk since 1986. As a committed regatta and cruising sailor, he has been active for many years as president of the German Boat and Shipbuilders Association and in the chairmanship of “Deutsche Yachten”. Above all, the team behind the Dehler 30 one design has benefitted from his many years of experience as a naval architect and in his research into aerodynamics and hydrodynamics.

Matthias Bröker - Naval architect - judel / vrolijk

“It's an exciting challenge to transfer current design knowledge from ocean sailing to such a small boat.” If anyone lives for their work, it's Matthias Bröker. For the Dehler 30 one design project, Matthias is the go-to man for everything. As a senior naval architect at judel / vrolijk, and with long experience in the development of one-design, series and regatta boats, as well as box-rule classes like the TP 52, he enriches the team with vast know-how in both areas.

Ann Cathrein Jacobsen - Interior - judel / vrolijk & co

“It will be exciting to see how all the ideas and new materials we already picture in our heads will actually work out in the end.” Maximum functionality in a modern, contemporary design – this is what interests Ann Cathrein Jacobsen, interior designer at judel / vrolijk. As a racer herself, she is part of the yachting scene and knows how important it is to meet all requirements in the smallest possible space. This is clearly reflected in the interior of the Dehler 30 one design, who's every detail is testament to her love of racing and design.

Jan-Philipp Lüdtke - Interior – Hanse Yachts PLC

“In the team, we have succeeded in developing an interior design that provides the owners with the highest level of comfort, even while racing.” Jan-Philipp Lüdtke, the interior designer of Hanse Yachts, knew sailing from the cradle. At the tender age of five, he got his junior Optimist certificate. This was followed by numerous Mediterranean and Baltic Sea cruises, and the construction of a wooden sailing boat with his father. His can-do approach now also enriches the development team of the Dehler 30 one design. In addition to a carpentry apprenticeship, he can draw on deep experience: Jan-Philipp has worked for Hanse Yachts since 2009. First as head of furniture development and construction and more recently as team leader of the department for concepts and design. Of course, no challenge is too big for him.

Oliver Schmidt-Rybandt – Offshore sailing consultant

“It's a lot of fun working with such an experienced team to develop something as great as the Dehler 30 one design together.” The development of the Dehler 30 one design is based above all on the many years of experience and competence of successful offshore racers, such as Oliver Schmidt-Rybandt. As an offshore consultant, and partner of the Rostock company Speedsailing, he has had a decisive impact on the project with new concepts and ideas. He has the right solution for every challenge.

Felix Hauss – Offshore sailing consultant

“We have already seen a few boats, but the Dehler 30 one design will turn heads.” As partner of Speedsail in Rostock, Felix Hauss knows how to take the helm and go all out for pace. He has many years’ experience with boats such as the Volvo Ocean 60 and ORMA 60 trimarans. His enthusiasm and competence as skipper and offshore consultant really come to the fore during sea trials, where he helps put the finishing touches to the Dehler 30 one design.

Rene Becker - Development – Hanse Yachts PLC

“Contributing to the innovative drivetrain is an exciting highlight for me.” Maximum performance and maximum efficiency – Rene Becker is your contact for propulsion concepts and engine installation on sailboats. As a Master of Engineering and a developer at Hanse Yachts, he is responsible for the new technology in the project: design, detailing, modelling and documentation. His expertise has proved particularly valuable with the Dehler Stealth Drive, our new propulsion marvel.

Stephan Eigendorf - Head of GRP engineering and tooling – Hanse Yachts PLC

“I like the interplay of many small factors and different materials that ultimately create such a homogeneous structure.” As head of GRP and tooling at Hanse Yachts, Canadian Stephan Eigendorf characterizes the Dehler 30 one design above all others with his ample experience, technical knowledge and the selection of high-quality materials and production methods. His expertise from years of international boat building and refit work has been poured into the construction of the mold for the Dehler 30 one design. If we can provide a hull of such quality, it is especially thanks to his know-how and precision.

Jens Kuphal – Offshore sailing consultant - Offshore Team Germany

“I'm really curious how the boat behaves on the water. Finally, a one-design made in Germany again.” As manager of Offshore Team Germany, Jens Kuphal pursues a specific vision: to establish German sailing technology as a mark of quality in offshore racing. An innovative project like the Dehler 30 one design caters exactly to the needs of the regatta and offshore sailor. Above all, Jens makes use of his many years of experience in team and production management and as helmsman of the Intermezzo Racing Team on a Dehler 42 Competition.

Peter Meyer - Purchasing – Hanse Yachts PLC

“Especially with a project for such an experienced audience, it's important to look for the right materials and components for this type of boat.” Peter Meyer, head of purchasing at Hanse Yachts, can look back on more than 20 years of experience in the yachting scene. He is active in the German national Soling team, possesses extraordinary skills in technical purchasing and sales, and is a recognized expert in production optimization. Without a doubt, such a degree of industry, product, and brand knowledge helps drive the Dehler 30 one design project forward.

Katja Siegel - Head of marketing & communications – Hanse Yachts PLC

“Nothing inspires us more than the four words: ‘it can’t be done’. When we hear that, we do everything we can to make the impossible possible. We as a team are passionate about this ground-breaking project.” Katja Siegel is the contact person for all matters. As head of marketing and communications at Hanse Yachts, she pulls all the threads together to communicate the project to the outside world. Katja and her team have many years of comms experience in the sector, and she is herself an active sailor. On days off, she is usually found at sea in her classic wooden Dragon.

Discover the Dehler 30 one design  

You are invited to discover more about this fast sailing boat. Our worldwide network of Dehler dealers is ready to meet you. Get ready to set a new record with our exclusive presentation on what sets this 30 ft sailboat apart from the competition. Enjoy learning everything about this fast one design boat with no time constraints or crowds. Schedule your exclusive consultation today and get ready for an exciting presentation!

Start your personal tour around your favorite Dehler comfortably from home with our new 360-degree panoramas. Take all the time you need and discover every detail in captivating detail. Enjoy navigating below Deck.

EXTERIOR   HIGHLIGHT

• 1 Liferaft stowage – Lid up and it’s ready
• 2 Twin rudder and lead keel – a lateral plan that doesn’t compromise
• 3 Cockpit stowage – Everything in the locker
• 4 Instrument Rack – The security centre
• 5 Warm anti-slip in the cockpit - Safety can also be comfortable
• 6 Main sheet with 4:1 and 16:1 purchase – The accelerator
• 7 External helm system - Full access and optimal control
• 8 Adjustable footrests – Lock it down so you don’t lose it!
• 9 Dehler Stealth Drive – Streamlined wonder
• 10 Integrated bulkhead instruments - Everything at a glance
• 11 Sliding dodger with 3D window - Keep an eye out
• 12 Category A Offshore – Sailing without limits
• 13 Double-handed – Optimised for small crews
• 14 Railing in black - Sexy security
• 15 Serial number in the deck - Tell us who you are
• 16 Hull shape - Ready to race
• 17 Bowsprit with bobstay – Always a nose ahead

Liferaft stowage – Lid up and it’s ready

The liferaft. Nobody wants to use it but everyone wants to know it will work flawlessly if deployed. All crewmembers must be able to release and activate the liferaft in all conditions and without help. When it comes to safety, we leave nothing to chance. With a dedicated storage space at the stern, the liferaft couldn’t be easier to access. Just a few simple steps and it is ready for use.

Twin rudder and lead keel – a lateral plan that doesn’t compromise

The Dehler 30 one design is also engineered for top performance below the waterline. The uncompromising lateral plan includes a 2.2m-deep T-keel with lead bulb and twin rudders. The composite keel consists of two segments: the upper part is formed of a hollow, extruded aluminium fin. Bolted beneath that is a streamlined lead bulb which puts 900kg at the deepest point of the keel for maximum efficiency. And the result? Our lightest ever fin, whose connecting webs allow flexion for great strength and correspondingly low weight. The lead bulb guarantees a high righting moment and tremendous speed potential. Double is better: twin rudders are much more stable. Even at high speed, and especially when the boat surfs, there is always a rudder in the water to ensure full control. And when the lee rudder is fully immersed, you reduce the wetted area to a minimum.

Cockpit stowage – Everything in the locker

As racers know, storage space in the cockpit can be in seriously short supply when you’re cruising. We want to change that. The locker situated behind the steering linkage is watertight and secured by a transparent deck hatch.

Instrument Rack – The security centre

The instrument rack is the be-all and end-all for safety on board: at the stern, it carries all the safety and communication gear. In an emergency, seconds often count. That's why at Dehler we rigorously combine technical innovations with maximum safety. Both lifebuoy and Epirb can be reached and activated with simple movements. Positioning aft above the transom ensures the best view and maximum coverage of the sky for SatNav / satellite communication.

Warm anti-slip in the cockpit - Safety can also be comfortable

Who hasn’t suffered bruises and numb legs while sailing? We have now developed a remedy: soft antislip patches on the cockpit benches and the cockpit sole between the traveller and the companionway. The insulating properties of these patches stops you from chilling down during long passages seated. It should turn a nap during the off-watch into a near spa experience!

Main sheet with 4:1 and 16:1 purchase – The accelerator

Perfect power transmission in every situation. The choice of coarse or fine trim on board optimises handling during manoeuvres. 4:1 is best when it comes to speed in the turn. Need strength or sensitivity? Then the fine tuning possible through the 16:1 purchase comes into play. Especially useful for precise trim in the fathead main to build up pressure, or to spill wind in the gusts.

External helm system - Full access and optimal control

Good technology shouldn’t be hidden. The helm system of the Dehler 30 one design is all above the deck. Everything at a glance and easily accessible - this is how to keep repairs and maintenance simple. Central tiller steering makes efficient use of space, with short routes and the easiest handover to another crew member. Whether alone or crewed, the boat is easy to manoeuvre. Fast, safe and effective - an unbeatable combination.

Adjustable footrests – Lock it down so you don’t lose it!

It is often little things that make the difference between victory and defeat. Individually adjustable foot rests for the helmsman offer optimal support at any time, in any conditions. Better ergonomics keep you more comfortable so you can stay on the helm longer, stay focused and above all, stay bang on course. Just become one with the boat.

Dehler Stealth Drive – Streamlined wonder

A drive concept that only comes to the fore when needed. For this purpose, we pair a small diesel engine (10 hp) with a retractable shaft, which is controlled by a lever in the cockpit. This new drive concept is typically Dehler: designed for mass production and easy maintenance. The Dehler Stealth Drive - a true Dehler innovation with great impact. To use the engine, a simple pull on the lever is enough: the drive train folds down and the boat is ready to go under power. When folded, the shaft and prop tuck up inside the hull, hermetically sealed behind a cover. No water resistance and no chance that nets, seaweed or other foreign objects could tangle the prop and slow you down. Since no stern gear is being hauled through the water when sailing, we can even spec a fixed propeller with higher efficiency than a folding prop. A fixed prop on a raceboat of this calibre? It seems wrong, but we’ve found a way to do it! * * Connoisseurs know: Dehlers are delivered as standard with a folding propeller. Using this proprietary system, we can now deliver the first Dehler with a fixed-pitch propeller.

Integrated bulkhead instruments - Everything at a glance

Technology is an absolute given on board these days. Whether it’s a multifunction display or a simple chartplotter; a digital compass or autopilot with remote control - everything is monitored and controlled from the coachroof bulkhead. All the key data for sail trim and navigation is displayed here. Everything available at a glance and within arm’s reach.

Sliding dodger with 3D window - Keep an eye out

Everything in sight at all times. The sliding dodger with curved 3D window offers a perfect 360-degree view of the water, deck and especially rigging – all from the protected companionway. Out of the wind and weather, it offers shelter and reliable cover, without cutting contact with the outside world. A pleasant side effect: more headroom and natural light in the companionway.

Category A Offshore – Sailing without limits

The Dehler 30 one design is uncompromising. Thanks to its high-quality composite build, the boat has great structural strength, but displaces just 2.8 tonnes. It will prove itself in offshore and coastal regattas. The easy-to-trim monolithic carbon rig and its aluminium boom extend to the maximum length allowed in category A. And with its deck-stepped mast, there is no possibility of water leaking below. So there is nothing to stop the boat competing in regattas open only to category A yachts.

Double-handed – Optimised for small crews

This high performance offshore one design is optimised for shorthanded crews. Here, the 9.14m length and 3.25m beam of the Dehler 30 one design sets new standards and delivers the perfect boat to match the growing passion for double-handed racing. Our focus on deck has been ease of handling and an efficient layout for the crew to work together. The simple-to-use 200-litre ballast tanks provide additional stability for small crews. One-up or with crew, the best possible trim is always guaranteed.

Railing in black - Sexy security

Pulpit, pushpit and stanchions in black. Why? Not only does it look pretty damn good, supporting the overall style of the boat, it also eliminates that distracting gleam which can take your mind off the essential: winning the race!

Serial number in the deck - Tell us who you are

Especially on long passages, conditions can be rough. We say Safety First. Set into the deck, a soft, non-slip neoprene patch provides additional support when crew are working on the foredeck. The patch also bears the hull number in large digits. This is a common feature in many offshore classes, ensuring the boat can be identified from the air.

Hull shape - Ready to race

Even at first glance, it is clear: from the transom to the bowsprit, this is 10.22m of pure racing DNA. The long, straight hull with pronounced chines aft is vacuum infused in E-glass, serving to increase the dimensional stability and visibility on the water. The sheer stern has the benefit of minimising the wetted area of the lateral plan and keeping the boat stable at speed. And to top it all off: a moderate scow bow, which generates dynamic buoyancy while surfing despite the steep ends. It allows the bow to cut through cross-seas with minimal resistance. The hull is fitted with the latest version of the Dehler Carbon Cage, which evenly distributes hull loading across its high-strength structure. The result: convincing rigidity with the lowest possible weight. The Dehler 30 one design converts all forces into maximum performance.

Bowsprit with bobstay – Always a nose ahead

The Dehler 30 one design is equipped with a fixed full-carbon bowsprit. The bobstay prevents the bowsprit from bending under shock loads when using the Gennaker or Code Zero, so all the pressure is converted to speed. When cruising or manoeuvring in a tightly-packed harbour, the bowsprit can be easily removed and later replaced.

EXTERIOR   GALLERY

We have created a boat that strikes the optimum balance between speed and handling through the use of the latest technology.

Cockpit view

Exterior view

Regatta pro or amateur sailor alike - new limits can be reached safely and in full control.

Bird's eye view

exterior view

The Dehler 30 one design embodies an unprecedented combination of function and comfort.

Only two people on board are able to stay fully in control at all times.

It is designed for maximum performance with the simplest handling - and yet unmistakably a Dehler.

Cockpit detail

The Dehler Stealth Drive – a true Dehler innovation with great impact.

For leisure cruising, the bowsprit can be easily removed and later replaced.

From new colour options to extra sails, design your boat according to your own individual wishes.

The helm system of the Dehler 30 one design is all above the deck.

The Dehler 30 one design delivers a well thought-out package that leaves nothing to be desired and raises the bar in this class of boat.

The easy-to-trim monolithic carbon rig and its aluminium boom extend to the maximum length allowed.

From the Dehler Carbon Cage, carbon mast, bowsprit and twin rudders, to the composite T-keel and the Dehler Stealth Drive - even the standard equipment makes for blistering performance.

Double is better: twin rudders are much more stable.

The Dehler 30 one design is packed with innovations, not with weight.

Good for both comfort and adventure; that's the Dehler 30 one design.

Switch from regatta mode to cruising mode in just a few simple steps.

From the very first glance, it becomes clear that the Dehler 30 one design sets a new, uncompromising course.

Hull detail

Deck detail

The Dehler 30 one design is a high-tech sports boat on which the whole family feels at home.

INTERIOR   HIGHLIGHT

• 1 Aft cabins – Make the most of a broad stern
• 2 Engine compartment - Direct access
• 3 Electric Panel - The communications centre
• 4 Lightweight GRP sandwich bulkheads ¬- Less is more
• 5 Storage shelf with internal storage space
• 6 Integrated companionway stowage - For all your stuff
• 7 Anti-slip flooring - High-tech carpet
• 8 Freshwater tank – A real lightweight
• 9 Galley - Small but flexible
• 10 Separable heads - A little luxury with little effort
• 11 Saloon - Performance without comfort? Never!
• 12 Lithium ion batteries - The power bank
• 13 Fabric-lined hull - High-tech from the fashion world
• 14 Moulded wooden saloon seating - Ergonomics below deck
• 15 Table - Foldable multifunctionality
• 16 Large double focsle berth - play area or sail locker
• 17 Collision bulkhead - Pure safety

Aft cabins – Make the most of a broad stern

Through the aft bulkhead, you reach the aft cabins on each side. The berths measure a generous 2m long by 1.1m wide at the head, tapering to 80cm, so you will find everything necessary for a peaceful night’s rest or a quick nap on the windward leg of the race. The inside of the hull is lined with a modern mesh material, so you can lean comfortably against it. Smaller belongings find a home behind the fiddle on the shelf; larger ones can be stowed under the bunk cushions. Functional, yet comfortable.

Engine compartment - Direct access

Between the two aft berths and the companionway is the technical space, accessible from both sides. From here, the engine and the seawater valve are easy to maintain. The area between the bunks and above the Dehler Stealth Drive Tunnel is not wasted, either. Here practical, optional transport boxes provide space for personal items. Everything sorted thematically in easy reach.

Electric Panel - The communications centre

Keep an eye on everything, even below decks. From VHF radio to battery management; switchboard and circuit breakers to mobile phone chargers (12v and USB ports), all wiring comes back to here. Whether it’s entertainment in port or hard facts on the high seas, the electric panel integrated into the bulkhead provides the perfect overview.

Lightweight GRP sandwich bulkheads ¬- Less is more

The lightweight construction concept of the Dehler 30 one design doesn’t stop at the bulkheads. Consistency down to the smallest detail. The E-glass sandwich bulkheads offer maximum strength with low weight. Rig loading from the deck-stepped mast is optimally transferred to the keel section. Another advantage: unlike the traditional wooden core, the foam core hardly absorbs any water.

Storage shelf with internal storage space

Order is half of life - especially below decks. A lightweight shelf with internal storage offers enough space for the essentials. Safe and compact, various items can be stored.

Integrated companionway stowage - For all your stuff

On the Dehler 30 one design, even the smallest space is used efficiently. An integrated storage space on the companionway is used to stow small items that need to be quickly and easily accessible. Things like torches, handheld VHF, sunglasses etc

Anti-slip flooring - High-tech carpet

All floor areas between the companionway and the forepeak are designed with the same anti-slip material as on deck. This not only minimises the formation of condensation, but ensures a secure footing and underlines the warmth of the space.

Freshwater tank – A real lightweight

Everyday life aboard requires fresh running water. That’s why we’ve equipped the boat with a lightweight flexible tank and an economical, manual foot pump. Fresh water can be filled directly from the deck and the tank is placed centrally, close to the boat’s centre of gravity.

Galley - Small but flexible

True comfort only comes with a well-equipped galley. Whether chilled drinks or hot snacks, everything is taken care of. The Eno gas stove with piezoelectric ignition comes with a saucepan holder. On the right of the work surface with its handrail, there is a recess for standard-sized coolers, and a 12V socket. There’s a small sink with a flexible tap and foot pump. A versatile, sliding chopping board is also part of the standard equipment, covering either a cooker or sink. There is plenty of storage space in the galley: textile zippered bags are ample for food and kitchen utensils.

Separable heads - A little luxury with little effort

Some things can’t be avoided. So that friends remain friends, there is a simple toilet solution from the aircraft industry. A lightweight fabric screen folds out on flexible hinges to separate the heads from the saloon and create some privacy. Preserve your dignity even with a larger crew on long passages. The manual toilet is equipped with a blackwater tank and deck pump-out. Simple and clean.

Saloon - Performance without comfort? Never!

We don’t believe that comfort and powerful performance in a boat need be mutually exclusive. The Dehler 30 one design brilliantly combines clear performance features with a feel-good factor. So the open bulkheads create a bright, generous volume while at the same time saving weight. Lightweight technical materials in warm, natural tones create a surprisingly large sense of space for a boat of its size.

Lithium ion batteries - The power bank

For the first time on a Dehler boat, we are using super-light lithium-ion batteries. Installed at the lowest point of the hull, they are as weight-neutral as possible. Battery management technology is built in, and 70A alternators ensure fast charging. Lithium-ion batteries are also low maintenance and stable.

Fabric-lined hull - High-tech from the fashion world

Each cabin sports a fabric lining. In keeping with the yacht’s sporty character, we rely on a well-proven material from the sporting world to create a sense of coziness. Fashionable mesh fabric is particularly durable, stretchy and therefore ideally suited for padding the inner hull.

Moulded wooden saloon seating - Ergonomics below deck

Switch from cruising to racing mode at a stroke. Even below, the Dehler 30 one design is a master of both worlds. The saloon benches made of waterproof, real oak combine ergonomics and stability. They invite the crew to sit comfortably together or, when folded up for racing, provide ample storage space. For more comfort, the padding from the sides of the forward cabin transforms into the upholstery of the salon bench. Robust, water-repellent and easy to clean.

Table - Foldable multifunctionality

Two in one. A centrally placed bracket acts as a firm handrail and at the same time the base of the hinged table.

Large double focsle berth - play area or sail locker

Depending on requirements, the boat's great versatility once again shows itself in the forepeak. As in the saloon, a few steps are enough to switch between sport mode and cruising mode. When the berths are folded up, there is direct access to the inspection hatch of the collision bulkhead, and lots of extra storage space for sails. When cruising, the berth offers accommodation for two, with its 2.2m length and 1.8m width, tapering to 1.45m at the foot. Like the saloon, the cabin sides are lined with mesh fabric.

Collision bulkhead - Pure safety

Water ingress following a collision is a nightmare for any boatowner. To prevent the boat from flooding and to ensure the safety of the crew, the bow area is hermetically separated from the rest of the boat. A watertight inspection hatch allows maintenance and inspection of the forestay attachment.

INTERIOR   GALLERY

The two benches in the saloon can be used as additional berths.

The functional navigation corner below deck offers additional space for your personal equipment.

There is a double berth for the crew in the forepeak and twin berths aft.

The GRP-glass sandwich bulkheads create a bright, generous volume.

Fashionable mesh fabric is particularly durable, stretchy and therefore ideally suited for padding the inner hull.

The well-equipped galley includes a gas stove, sink with flexible tap and foot pump, and room for standard-sized coolers.

Rig loading is optimally transferred to the keel section.

A cooler can be stowed safely and within easy reach next to the galley.

Design detail

Dehler 30 one design – detailed presentation

It took us years of planning, research and development – but the Dehler 30 one design has been worth the wait. See for yourself the range of special features making this true racer all about maximum fun.

Dehler 30 one design - Guided Tour

Join Oliver Schmidt-Rybandt on his walk around the Dehler 30 one design and find out all the clever details that make life on board both fun and comfortable.

Dehler 30 one design - Knut Frostad interview

Norwegian sailor and CEO of Navico, Knut Frostad, answers questions about the Dehler 30 one design from the perspective of a successful regatta sailor. He gives his professional opinion on the design, sailplan, equipment and general layout. “I like it”, he says, “I would absolutely sail this boat with my family. It is a fun boat to sail, it is quite easy to sail and the layout is safe and accessible.”

Dehler 30 one design - YACHTtv Part 1

Start of the new series at YACHT tv: we exclusively follow the new Dehler 30 one design from the first idea to the test run with the prototype!

Dehler 30 one design - YACHTtv Part 2

YACHT tv looks around the Dehler 30 one design mock-up. The model on a 1:1 scale makes it possible to walk through and experience the interior.

Dehler 30 one design - YACHTtv Part 3 Mould making

Dehler 30 one design - yachttv part 4.

During its fourth visit to the Greifswald ship yard, YACHT tv finds a finished boat where before they had only seen mock-ups and models.

Dehler 30 one design - YACHTtv Part 5

YACHT tv visits the first finished Dehler 30 one design, which is finally in her element.

Dehler 30 one design - Yacht test

German Yacht TV has accompanied the development process of the Dehler 30 one design over a period of several months before finally being ready for the big Yacht test.

Dehler 30 one design - Launch clip

After years of planning, research and development, the first Dehler 30 one design is finally launched. Accompany her from the production hall to the first moment she touches her element.

Dehler 30 one design - Milling Process

Perfect design needs perfect execution. Our precision milling machine makes it possible.

Dehler 30 one design - Dehler Stealth Drive

A fixed prop on a raceboat of this calibre? It seems impossible, but we’ve found a way to do it. The Dehler Stealth Drive – a true Dehler innovation with great impact.

DOWNLOAD   DOCUMENTS

Dehler 30 one design standard specification, dehler 30 one design brochure, dehler quantum sails manual 2020-21, dehler 30 one design, dehler 30 one design sail plan, dehler 30 one design sail workbook quantum sails, dehler 30 one design sail book, dehler 30 one design speed guide, dehler 30 one design deck and hull plan, dehler 30 one design hull plan, dehler material and colour card, dehler 30 one design interior layout, dehler 30 one design deck layout, one design   sail racing dynasty.

One Design from Germany – “Comfort helps to win” What began in 1977 as a gesture of defiance was decisive for German boat building. It laid the foundation for a decade-long history of serial one-design production, ‘Made in Germany’. Even then, founder Willi Dehler did not accept that race boats should have just one purpose: to sail regattas. He had more in mind. His vision – race boats with creature comforts. It started with the legendary Sprinta Sport. A small cabin cruiser with real regatta ambitions, she was considered the first of a new cruiser-racer class, which became successful in the Quarter Tonne division of the IOR system. Through the use of the latest materials and high-strength components, more common on larger boats, Dehler already positioned itself as a pioneer in production boat building. Some 500 boats were built and sailed intensively. Naturally, Dehler followed up on this success with bigger one designs. The db1 came out in 1980 – a serial Three-Quarter tun. It was already clear that Dehlers not only sailed very well, but also offered comfortable living. Dehler finally won a world championship title with the db2. After a long interlude, the new Dehler 30 one design marks a return to the original idea behind her successful predecessors: to create a performance boat that is also suitable for cruising. She embodies an unprecedented combination of function and comfort. Every detail of the boat is geared towards maximum performance, but without sacrificing comfort: from cruiser-racer to racer-cruiser.

Sprinta Sport

This enormously successful first cabin-cruiser class, which also distinguished itself in the IOR Quarter Tonne division, was much used for cruising. Some 500 boats were built with the goal: class instead of formula.

First series-built, Three-Quarter Tonne one design, which lead to international success. Below decks, she was fully equipped, while on deck she had an innovative layout for sporty sailing and easy handling.

Our new development is a progressive racer-cruiser with true Dehler performance genes. The Dehler 30 one design is an uncompromising double-handed offshore boat designed for maximum performance with the highest possible level of comfort.

NEW ONE DESIGN BOAT   CONFIGURATOR

Dehler yachts are boats for individualists. All the same, the Dehler 30 one design already leaves our shipyard as one of the fastest sailboats in its class, alongside the highest level of equipment as standard. Features include a carbon mast, bowsprit, twin rudders, composite aluminum-lead keel, Dehler Carbon Cage and, for the first time, the Dehler Stealth Drive. Use our configurator to personalize your Dehler 30 one design. From new color options to extra sails, design your boat according to your own individual wishes.

AWARDS   REVIEWS

Are you looking for reviews, or have you heard that we’ve won an award? Here you can find the proof of our quality in black and white. Have fun browsing.

Dehler 30 one design: Review - Sailing Today 09/20

Dehler 30 one design: review - sail oct/nov 20, dehler 30 one design: review - sailing world magazine 2021, dehler 30 one design: sea yachting vol.14 no.6 nov-dec 2019, dehler 30 one design: yachting monthly february 2020, dehler 30 one design: search magazine 1#2020 / edition #77 (se), dehler 30 one design: skipper ondeck 2019-'20 winter. issue#056, dehler 30 one design: review - seahorse international sailing october 2019, dehler 30 one design: testbericht - yacht revue 19-2019, dehler 30 one design: yacht 8 - 2019, dehler range: schwern yachten gmbh & co kg - bericht yacht 20/20, dehler 30 one design: testbericht - segeler-zeitung februar 2020, dehler 30 one design: testbericht - yacht 22-2019, dehler 30 one design: testbericht - yacht 24-2019, dehler 30 one design: bericht - segel journal 04/2019, segelndes kaleidoskop yacht nr. 17 august 2022, dehler 30 one design: bericht teil 3 - yacht 16-2019, dehler 30 one design: bericht - yacht 17-2019, dehler 30 one design: testbericht - yacht 4-2020, dehler 30 one design: testbericht - segeln februar 2020, dehler 30 one desig:n testbericht - ocean7 1/2020, dehler 30 one design: yacht 13 - 2019, dehler 30 one design: ankündigung - yacht 15 - 2018, dehler 30 one design: båd magasinet 560, dehler 30 one design: revista - mares nautical magazine n°21, dehler 30 one design: revista - n&y no.46 2019, dehler 30 one design: preview - náutica y yates m@gazine - número 43 ano vii, dehler 30 one design: review - mares no34 2020, dehler 30 one design: review - skipper n°446, dehler: voile magazine n°300, dehler 30 one design: review - le mag yachting festival cannes 2019, dehler 30 one design: review - aqua magazine no. 144 aug-okt-2019, dehler 30 one design: vela-e-motore n°2020, dehler 30 one design: review - kazi n°04/20, dehler 30 one design: testbericht - search magazine 76-2019, the dehler 30od won the best boats 2021 award, sailing world magazine (us) - boat of the year 2022, dehler 30 one design - european yacht of the year 2020, dehler 30 one design - british yachting awards 2019 - nominated, charter sea trial.

Baltic Sea – speedsailing.de

The Dehler 30 one design is waiting for you! Speedsailing.de offers test runs with the new offshore yacht from their base in the Rostock city harbor. Test the new standard class in Warnemünde together with experienced skippers, or take the Racer-Cruiser to its peak during a test fitting along the Baltic Sea coast. The North German waters offer ideal conditions for testing the racing qualities of the yacht. Let the experienced Ocean Racer sailors show you how they can confidently maneuver the Dehler 30 one design with a small crew, operate the Dehler Stealth Drive or make optimum use of the trim equipment. Whether training with a professional skipper, charter or hourly test sailing – ask now for your appointment, the team will gladly take time for you!

Baltic Sea – crazyboats.de

As the face of the Dehler 30 one design campaign, and successful mini-transat sailor, Andreas Deubel is closely connected with the racer-cruiser. The name of his offer “crazyboats.de” reflects the program, because the exciting design of his yacht attracts all eyes. At his base in Rostock he offers seasonally and daily charter on his fully equipped yacht, individual coaching (one-handed, two-handed, multi-person crews) as well as team events such as speed trials. True to the motto “Be excited – get crazy” he not only makes experienced sailors' hearts beat faster, even without sailing skills nothing stands in the way of an exciting day thanks to the skipper. Ask for your individual offer now and test for yourself what power the racer-cruiser has to offer!

Cyclades and Aegean Sea - FastSailing

Charter the Dehler 30 one design in Greece with FastSailing.gr and experience the offshore yacht in one of the best sailing areas in the world. The region around the Cyclades and the Aegean Sea, known for its constant winds, numerous islands and sheltered bays. Whether you are a single-handed sailor or crewed, charter the yacht for a sea trial or qualify for one of the local regattas such as the Aegean 600, Hydra Race, Aegean Rally, Cyclades Race or Rodos Cup. In preparation, FastSailing will gladly organize a skipper for individual yacht training, who will show you how to bring the yacht to maximum performance. All charter yachts are equipped with a set of high quality Kevlar sails and offer complete equipment including autopilot and chart plotter. Find out for yourself what it means to sail one of the most modern yachts optimized for maximum performance and ask for your appointment now!

Athens – Offshore Racing Charter

Offshore Racing Charter in Athens offers interested sailors the opportunity to sail the Dehler 30 one design in the Mediterranean Sea. Gain first experiences on board with your team and get familiar with the Quantum sail sets, the fold-out propulsion and the water ballast system. Experience the advantages of the “Dehler Stealth-Drive” and combine jib, stay sail, Code Zero as well as the different Downwind sails for the optimal speed. On request, an experienced skipper will accompany you and instruct you on the yacht. Would you like to experience the Dehler 30 one design in direct comparison? Book a place as a crew member on a Mediterranean regatta via Offshore Racing Charter and convince yourself of their racing qualities. Make an appointment now for an unforgettable sailing experience!

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• Sun Fast 30 One Design

The fruit of a collaboration between key players in the marine industry – with naval architects at VPLP Design and with Multiplast – the Sun Fast 30 One Design is an innovative, powerful, and versatile 30-foot sailboat aiming to make offshore sailing more accessible, more fun, and more sustainable.

A One Design Made for Offshore Racing

The Sun Fast 30 One Design has the ambition of turning a new page on offshore racing, offering a monotype dedicated to multi-day competitions, accessible to amateurs and to a new generation. At a reasonable price, they can acquire a One Design entirely made in France, perfectly equipped for racing, and easy to maintain. This One Design class will become a reference in offshore sailing, with a vast schedule of international races that promise to be exhilarating.

Objective: Performance and Sensations

Each of the three partners in the project contributed their expertise to produce a sailboat that delivers an exceptional performance. The Sun Fast 30 One Design benefits from the latest advances in infusion-moulded construction, guaranteeing resistance and rigidity at a reduced weight. The slightly rounded bow, inspired by scow design, promises thrills and power at any speed. Equipment on board, such as the autopilot and electronics, is well adapted for double-handed, and even single-handed, offshore racing.

A Recyclable Production Model Sailboat

A sailboat demonstrating remarkable performance, the Sun Fast 30 One Design is no less respectful of the environment. This is the first production model sailboat built from a recyclable composite material. By integrating the durability criteria from sailboat racing class rules, as well as equipment carefully selected and designed for intensive offshore use, the Sun Fast 30 One Design marks a major advance toward more environmentally responsible sailing.

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13 Best Liveaboard Sailboats (under 30 & 50 ft)

Choosing a boat to live on is a big deal — something you definitely want to get right. There are plenty of options to pick from, which can make the choosing process a bit daunting. So to help you navigate those deep waters (no pun intended), here is an article summarizing the 13 best liveaboard sailboats under 30 and 50 feet.

So what are the 13 best liveaboard sailboats?

Catalina 30, pacific seacraft flicka 20, nonsuch ultra 30, aventura 34, island packet 35, peterson 44, prout snowgoose 37, gulfstar 44, beneteau oceanis 50.

Beautiful lineup, isn't it? Let me explain what makes these so special.

Picking the Right One Matters

Picking a liveaboard sailboat belongs among those kinds of decisions that require months, if not years of research and testing.

It is not like choosing a car - those are more or less the same, and although they vary widely in terms of comfort, feeling, and performance, rarely you would encounter one that wouldn't get you from point A to B reasonably.

The same goes for a house or an apartment. Regardless of if you get a 200 square foot condo or a 30,000 square feet mansion, it will most of the time provide a warm shelter with a shower and a kitchen and a bed, fulfilling its basic functions.

But this is only the case because there is extensive infrastructure in place helping cars and houses. A car can only get you from A to B thanks to roads. A house can only have a shower and a kitchen if it is connected to a grid.

But on a boat, you are on your own.

The sea doesn't adjust its waves for your comfort. If something breaks, there is usually not a repair shop nearby. You aren't always connected to water or electricity. And if you don't like what you see around yourself, it's not like you can just leave.

So a liveaboard boat needs to provide what a house does, what a vehicle does, and more, plus it needs to provide this regardless of if you are docked in a marina or in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. That is a lot to ask, especially if we are talking about boats around 30 or 50 feet.

Fortunately, every single boat on this list is an all-star that ticks all the right boxes. Let's see why.

I know, I hear you, it isn't exciting enough as it doesn't perform that well. Sure. But we are talking about a boat that is supposed to be a house too. So why is it on the list?

This boat has been in production since 1975, which means that it has been extraordinarily well-refined according to the suggestions of thousands of owners. And this manufacturer is known for listening to the sailors' feedback. It is a very popular model, so finding spare parts for it will always be easy. Its famous well thought through the salon, and cabin layout is generous and spacious, so Catalinas are comfortable boats to live on. Plus, the boat has quite a wide beam, great ballast/displacement ratio as well as low sail area/displacement ratio, making it a stiff boat under sail, which adds to stability and comfort.

Good condition MkIII Catalinas can be found for about $35,000, but given the volume of these on the market, you can find a usable one even for around $15,000.

This one is a hero. I'd be hesitant to call such a small boat a comfortable liveaboard if it wasn't for this model. For its size, the interior is very spacious. It is also made for comfort since it seems to be inspired by the aforementioned Catalina 30. In fact, after reading some reviews, I am confident in saying that you will not find a significantly more comfortable 27 footer out there.

It also has a talent very uncommon for liveaboard boats - you can put it on a trailer, which can make your life easier when it comes to certain trips. But most importantly, it is a beauty. Just look at it.

Pricing this boat is a tricky task. You can buy nearly new ones (2015) for around $140,000, but even for $50,000, you can stumble upon models from both the 80s and the 2000s. This means the condition is a big factor, and you gotta inspect your choice well. The good news is that whatever your price in that range, you will find a boat for that money. The bad news is that the cheaper you go, the more effort will the potential repairs take.

I thought the Nor'Sea 27 is gonna be it, but let's push the size limit even more with the 20 foot Flicka, this tiny, towable, but seaworthy beast that accomplished several circumnavigations. Upon entering, you will be amazed at how spacious and equipped with amenities the interior is. Its designer lived on this boat with his partner (who too was a naval architect) for years and cruised all around the world - and what a proof of confidence in his own design that is.

Truth be told, there is a lack of deck space, but underneath it has the comfort and size of a boat a few meters larger, a space you can comfortably live in. Due to its size, it is easy to operate, tow, and sails better than what you would expect from a boat this length.

This boat is incredibly charming, and so its owners rarely sell it. In fact, it has amassed quite a following since it was designed into existence. So expect to spend quite some time searching for one for sale. Once you do find one, it will cost you around $30,000 - $40,000.

This one's a weird one. But because of it, a very spacious one. It is structured as a catboat, that is, with the mast being all the way on the front of the boat, which makes for impressive space below the deck. It has all the necessary amenities, including a shower, so for the liveaboard lifestyle, this boat definitely deserves to make this list.

The single sail catboat design also means it is easy to handle single-handed, which makes for great solitary passages.

Expect to pay around $40,000 to $60,000 for this one.

Though I am trying to keep this list in lower price ranges, I have to put this one in. If you don't mind the price tag of around $170,000, this boat is marketed as the currently cheapest liveaboard catamaran. As previously mentioned, cats offer the most in terms of space, and this model is a brand new one. Thus when it comes to service troubles and costs, you wouldn't pay much. The look is modern, relatively minimalistic and sleek, so for those of you who would like to give the liveaboard lifestyle a go but get cold feet upon seeing boats from the 80s, this is a way to make sure things remain stylish.

The modernity, space, and attention to practicality when it comes to using this as your home, make this a great entry-level liveaboard choice.

Again, this is no performance vehicle. Rather it focuses on the usual cruiser aspects - space, stability, sturdiness, and convenience, which makes it an ideal candidate for your choice when looking for a new floating home. Aside from the spacious interior, this boat also has an unusually large cockpit, great for those lunches on the deck.

As if the designers knew this might be used by the liveaboard people, this boat is easy to handle, which means even under sail, you won't have issues focusing on what you came for in the first place - sea living.

This boat can be found on the market for around $75,000 - $100,000.

The great thing about the Hunter 33 is that it was designed as more of a house than a sailboat. The attention to accommodation details is great here; there is plenty of space for sleeping the owners as well as the occasional visitors, it has a fantastic headroom throughout the boat and one of the most spacious and comfortable dining spaces seen on boats this size.

Food preparation and consumption was probably high on the priority list of the makers; the kitchen has an L shape, which adds to the convenience.

The price spread on these is quite large, with the bottom around $55,000 for the 2004 models and the top around $95,000 for the 2013 models.

This one is for those who don't mind sacrificing luxury for space. If in the middle of the ocean, it makes sense that one would want as much of usable space as possible, so if you are okay with the simplicity that will inevitably come with a system like this, you have found your match.

An undeniable advantage of such a design approach is that the storage space is maximized. Long passages with the need for plenty of room for equipment and provisions won't be a problem here. The simplicity of this boat is not just in terms of design, but even the electrics and plumbing. Thus if something breaks, you will have an easier time fixing it.

This being an older model, you can get your hands on one for around $30,000.

Since we are mostly looking at cheaper boats here, most of them aren't new - in fact, they likely have quite a few years behind them. The build quality is thus important. You want to go for builds that will last. Peterson is known for this, so it's gotta be on the list. As far as this list goes, it is quite a large boat. Moreover, it is one that has been built with spaciousness in mind, both when it comes to living spaces and storage.

A neat thing about this boat is its attention to performance. It isn't a racer; rather, it fits in the performance cruiser category, but they haven't made too many speed-related compromises here.

Peterson 44 can usually be found for $80,000 - $100,000.

There needs to be a catamaran on this list - they are, by definition, more spacious than monohulls, providing a large living area, which is, of course, an attractive characteristic for a liveaboard boat. Especially if they have a solid bridge deck, creating yet more square feet of usable space, which Snowgoose has. Unfortunately, they tend to be costly. While it is easy to recommend a bunch of half a million dollar cats, to make this list more within reach of the average sailor, I've found this beauty that you can get for around $100,000.

Aside from the extra space, this model is a true bluewater cruiser, meaning you won't be limited by its abilities when planning your journeys.

Those of you who had the pleasure of sailing this boat know why it needs to be here. It was built for a liveaboard lifestyle. Its wide body makes for one spacious interior which is well ventilated, (a very important aspect) with a beautiful galley and it has a large aft cabin with a huge bed. It was made with comfort, practicality, and convenience in mind.

Not to sound like a salesman, but believe me when I say this boat is a genuine pleasure to be on. If you want the homey feeling, you don't get much closer than this in this size range.

Expect to pay around $80,000 - $100,000 for this one, though some digging around and 'fixing her up' can knock this number down significantly.

This is another easy choice, space being the reason. Not only does it have an extra-large main cabin and salon with a kitchen, many small Parisian apartments could envy, but it is also very generous in terms of storage space. Stocking up for longer crossings will be a pleasure on this one.

Also, it was built as a racer-cruiser, so you won't be making many compromises in terms of performance, as is often the case with comfortable boats.

All of this comes for a price, though. You might be able to find one for around $100,000 if you put some time into your search and won't mind a bit of travel to see it, but otherwise, the average price is around $130,000.

Let's end this list by stretching the ceiling too with this fifty-footer. It was designed as a holiday cruiser, and it is a popular choice among charter companies. The designers know that there are places in Europe where it is very easy to get a sailing license, so many inexperienced people who don't want to give up the comforts of their home end up on these boats. Oceanis 50 is thus comfortable, spacious, easy to sail, and the attention to accommodation details, amenities, and practicality, is very high.

As such, it is designed to house whole families, so if you live there as a couple, you will have a floating house for yourself, and if kids come, no need to buy a new boat. Even on the deck, this boat is designed for pleasure cruises, so as far as that goes, you will be taken care of. As far as their seaworthiness goes, some consider Beneteau an entry-level holiday brand, and some models are indeed more designed for coastal hopping than large crossings. But that can be fixed with some proper fitting.

If you fancy a new one, you will find yourself paying above the $500,000 mark, but older models start a bit above $100,000. Which is something a person who just sold all their possessions to escape to the sea is more likely to have. Just be a bit careful with boats sold by charter companies. Their previous owners serviced them regularly, but you can be sure the hundreds of sailors that touched the helm weren't necessarily skilled or kind to them.

So there you have it. $15,000 - $50,0000 range, 20 - 50-foot sizes, from cozy towable boats to large sailing houses. A range anybody can choose from to pursue the liveaboard dream. Nothing is stopping you now, so hit the yachtworld.com website and start browsing.

Know though that if you really want to take advantage of the boat market, you might have to travel quite a bit. If you are an American, the strong dollar will make it enticing to look for a boat in European countries without the EUR currency. Or you might find plenty of cheap models in Turkey, for instance. It requires more effort, but in return, it might save you tens of thousands of dollars.

Fair winds!

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Do-it-yourself Electrical System Survey and Inspection

Install a Standalone Sounder Without Drilling

When Should We Retire Dyneema Stays and Running Rigging?

Rethinking MOB Prevention

Top-notch Wind Indicators

The Everlasting Multihull Trampoline

How Dangerous is Your Shore Power?

DIY survey of boat solar and wind turbine systems

What’s Involved in Setting Up a Lithium Battery System?

The Scraper-only Approach to Bottom Paint Removal

Can You Recoat Dyneema?

Gonytia Hot Knife Proves its Mettle

Where Winches Dare to Go

The Day Sailor’s First-Aid Kit

Choosing and Securing Seat Cushions

Cockpit Drains on Race Boats

Rhumb Lines: Livin’ the Wharf Rat Life

Re-sealing the Seams on Waterproof Fabrics

Safer Sailing: Add Leg Loops to Your Harness

Waxing and Polishing Your Boat

Reducing Engine Room Noise

Tricks and Tips to Forming Do-it-yourself Rigging Terminals

Marine Toilet Maintenance Tips

Learning to Live with Plastic Boat Bits

• Sailboat Reviews

Hunter 30: Still the Affordable Fantasy

Production coastal cruiser offers a lot of boat for not a lot of bucks..

Hunter Marine began building auxiliary sailboats in 1974, largely as the result of the first oil embargo and the new energy consciousness that followed. Founded by Warren Luhrs, Hunter began as a division of the powerboat-maker Silverton Yachts, which was interested in expanding its offerings and taking advantage of the new interest in saving fuel.

The companys aim was high-volume production, keeping prices low by standardizing design, making as few tooling changes as possible, and offering its boats fully equipped-while other companies were selling things like bow pulpits and lifelines as options on a 30-foot boat. The original Hunter boats were marketed as the affordable fantasy and came with sails, dock lines, fenders, life jackets, and fire extinguishers, in what Hunter called the Cruise Pak of standard features. About the only option available on the early Hunters was a choice of shoal- or deep-draft keel.

Photo by CeCe Stoldt

In 2012, Hunter Marine was sold to David Marlow, the builder of Marlow Yachts. With this change of ownership came a change in corporate goals and product offerings. Hunter Marine began-like its chief competitor, Catalina Yachts-with a small group of standardized models. From 1974 through 1977, it offered only the Hunter 25, 27, and 30 models, and from 1977 through 1979, the builder added only the 33 and 37. Today, Hunter-Marlow makes nine production models ranging from trailerable daysailors (15 to 22 feet) to mid-size (27 to 37 feet) and large (40 to 50 feet) keelboats.

Also, Hunters high-volume-production business model has been replaced with the Marlow ethos, which is more focused on yacht-level quality than production volume. Marlow-Hunter produces about 100 boats each year, including trailerable and cruising sailboats, as well as Mainship powerboats, according to Greg Emerson, Marlow-Hunters director of sales.

The Hunter 30

Designed by John Cherubini and built from 1974 to 1983, the Hunter 30 is a coastal cruiser that was designed to offer a lot of boat for little money. With a focus on streamlining construction to boost production volume, Hunter aimed to offer an affordable coastal racer-cruiser. More than 1,000 Hunter 30s were built over the nine-year production run; however, a number of them were sold as Quest 30s, which was essentially a sail-away, bare-hull kit boat, and the purchaser completed the interior and the fitting out.

For this report, we checked out a 1980 Hunter 30 (hull #934) and a 1978 model (hull #568). In contrast to later Hunters, the early Cherubini-designed models were conservative and conventional in design. The longer sister models-the 33 and 37-were, in our opinion, good-looking boats, moderately styled, with an attractive bow line and sheer, and a pleasing coachroof. The smaller boats, the 25 and 27, instead traded in some styling characteristics in order to pack a lot of room into a short waterline, which left them with higher-sided with boxier cabinhouses.

The 30 lies somewhere in between-handsome from some angles but a bit too flat in the sheer and high in the cabintop to impress traditionalists. Still, most of those traditionalists would consider it a much more attractive boat than the modern Euro-styled Hunters.

The 30s hull is very full-to maximize interior space-but otherwise, its quite typical of the racer-cruisers of the 1970s. Overall, the boat is 29 feet, 11 inches long-the maximum allowable length under the then-popular Midget Ocean Racing Club (MORC) rule. The short overhangs result in a long waterline, fundamental for sailing speed. The beam, at just a hair over 10 feet, is moderate by 1970s standards, but narrow in comparison to the big 30-footers that have appeared since. The Catalina 30, for example, is nine inches wider, and many current boats carry a foot more beam (and carry it further aft) than the Hunter 30.

A conventional fin keel, drawing 5 feet, 3 inches, was standard, with a 4-foot shoal keel as an option. We test-sailed the deep-keel version, and suspect it is much to be preferred, unless you absolutely need the shallower draft. Company literature lists the displacement and ballast as identical on both models. That would make the shallow-keel version more tender, requiring crew to reef early as the wind pipes up.

The foredeck is on the smaller side for anchor work and sail handling because the cabinhouse extends quite far forward. The 1978 and later models have an anchor well built into the foredeck that is self-contained and large enough to hold over 400 feet of rode, or enough for two anchors. The test boat we sailed had a furling jib, a desirable option in view of the smallish foredeck.

A significant shortcoming of the boats design is the narrow sidedecks. The wide cabinhouse makes it clear that the designers top priority was interior room, with deck work being a distant consideration. Its near impossible to get past the chainplates, especially on the leeward side when under a press of canvas, without climbing atop the cabinhouse.

The boat has a good cockpit, a bit smaller than some other 30-footers (again, a result of maximizing cabin space). A wheel was standard on the boat; its small, which is good for moving around the cockpit, but less than ideal for helming, in our opinion

A T cockpit became standard following the 1980 models, and some people preferred that arrangement; however, you could lie down on the older bench seats, and you can’t with the T. The bench seats would benefit from some sort of drain arrangement since they trap water. A deep lazarette behind the cockpit offers additional on-deck storage.

A peculiarity of the decks on the early Hunters is that the nonskid pattern was not molded in as is customary on fiberglass decks. Instead, a nonskid aggregate was painted on. Given the age of the Hunter 30, the original aggregate is likely long gone, and owners have had to apply fresh nonskid paint or nonskid mat. Fortunately, such a repair is straightforward and an easy (although time-consuming), do-it-yourself project (see PS August 2008 and November 2013 online).

On the boats we examined, there was minimal sail-handling equipment on deck-one pair of jib-sheet winches, a small halyard winch for the jib, no winch for the main halyard, no Cunningham or vang, no control lines on the traveler, no flattening reef, a single jiffy reef block, two jib lead blocks out on the toerail, and no backstay adjuster. However, most H30 owners have added deck gear over the years, including a running backstay, so what youll find on Hunter 30s today will run the gamut. A large number of Hunter 30 owners who responded to our survey reported that their boat was rigged for singlehanding, making it easy to sail with a short- or single-handed crew.

The original Hunter 30 owners manual was a great example of a good, clear, simple manual. It has always amazed us how many other boat builders provide the buyer with little or no printed information. If you happen to own or buy a Hunter 30 (or pretty much any older Hunter model) thats missing its manual, simply download the PDF of the original from the Hunter-Marlow website.

courtesy of Kasi McCain

The 30s interior was a strong selling point for the Hunter 30. Almost every owner that responded to our survey commented on the size of the boats interior-often relative to low price-when talking about their reasons for buying the 30.

The interior is well laid out, but plain. Theres a lot here for the money, however. Some of the original details could use changing-the alcohol stove, lack of vents, and small water tank-and many owners have upgraded or modified these systems.

The Hunter 30s layout is conventional, with a good V-berth forward, then a head with small hanging locker opposite, settee berths on each side of the saloon with a double, a drop-leaf table in the middle, an L-shaped galley, with the sink underneath the companionway, and a quarter berth, with a small chart table at its head. The berths are of good size, and on some boats, the port settee can convert to a double berth.

The head area is roomy with enough space for comfortable showering and a door for privacy. The interior also offers lots of storage for a boat this size: The hanging locker can accommodate plenty of clothes and has an overhead shelf; and there are three large storage lockers in the V-berth, plus a host of drawers and under-seat storage in the saloon.

The icebox on the boat we looked at had minimal insulation and would benefit from several more inches all around. Many owners reported having upgraded with icebox conversion kits.

The deckhouse is high and wide, and this gives a look of spaciousness below. The white hull liner overhead helps offset the extensive teak veneer on the bulkheads, ceilings, sole, and furniture.

There are adequate ports and hatches to allow in enough light. The opening portlights-Hunter was one of the first production boats to offer numerous opening ports as standard-offer good ventilation. If youre considering buying a Hunter 30 that has not had any ventilation upgrades, you will probably want to add some Dorades or solar vents to keep the air moving when the ports and hatches must be closed.

The finish downbelow is typical of low-cost production boats, which depend on pre-fab components that can be rapidly installed in the hull. In our owner surveys, there were a great many complaints about the original joinerwork, door hinges, and hardware. The original cabin sole was made of teak veneer, so in instances of water damage, it often cannot be repaired but must be replaced.

For the first four years of the Hunter 30s production, a 12-horsepower Yanmar diesel was standard. After 1978, standard power was a 15-horsepower Yanmar, followed by an 18-horsepower Yanmar.

The 12 was a particularly noisy engine; the later models were less so. Most of the owners who completed our survey thought the engines were minimal for powering the boat, especially in any kind of head seas; however, by traditional standards, even the 12-horsepower model should be adequate for the weight and length of the boat. Although the 12 is highly praised for its reliability, many people will find the later Hunter 30s to be more desirable because of their larger, smoother-running engines.

Engine accessibility was criticized by almost all of the owners who completed our survey. Access is awful, said one. You must be a left-handed midget to work on this engine.

We thought accessibility was far from ideal, but not excessively bad for this size boat. With a big interior and a small cockpit, its hard to stuff an engine under the cockpit sole without cramping.

The Hunter 30 we sailed (with a Yanmar 12) was well behaved under power; it backed nicely, turned crisply, and drove through strong winds (in protected water) with no problem. Our impression was that the engines vibration and noise were more of a concern than its power. Anyone buying the boat with the Yanmar 12 will probably want to spend the time to get perfect alignment. Wed also look closely at the engine mounts and the shaft-strut mounting.

Some owners have re-powered their boats, usually opting for a Yanmar 2QM15 or Yanmar 2GM20F diesel with good results. A two-blade solid prop was standard, but a number of owners refitted the boat with a three-blade solid prop to improve powering. We doubt if the gain would offset the loss in sailing ability.

Theres a full skeg ahead of the rudder. If you have to remove the propeller shaft for some reason, youll have to remove the engine first, or tear the skeg off. On the shoal-draft version, the skeg also is something of a grounding vulnerability as the rudder is about as deep as the foot of the keel.

We were pleasantly surprised by the sailing performance of the Hunter 30. We sailed one in a long, triangular race-two triangles, then windward-leeward-windward legs-in heavy air, a little over 20 knots at the start.

Considering that the test boat had almost no sail controls and old sails, and that the underbody was rough and a bit weedy, the boat moved very well, going to weather respectably in a serious racing fleet, and reaching and running competitively.

The jib we used was the 130-percent genoa on roller furling, and this was about right for the boat in those conditions. When the wind faded near the end of race, the boat was clearly under-canvassed.

The boat is slightly under-rigged with its short mast. To sail well in light air, especially with the solid prop that most 30s have, a sizeable genoa is required. One Florida Panhandle-based owner reports that she sails with a 155 or 170 genoa, both of which are ideal in light winds and can be reefed with furling if the wind picks up. This boat sails nicely and does better in higher winds than light wind. …. It responds very quickly when tacking and can almost sail itself in steady winds, she explained.

We agree: The 30 is a good sailing boat, responsive and easy to steer. Its PHRF rating of 186 (New England fleet) would probably be very favorable. If the boat were rigged with a full complement of sail-handling gear and modern sails, it should be able to stay with other 30-footers of the same era, such as the Pearson 30, Catalina 30 (not the tall rig), and ODay 30. Since sailing is what sailing is all about, our opinion of the Hunter 30 was improved dramatically when we took a first in the races main-and-jib class.

Conclusions

The Hunter 30 was a boat built to a price point-to appeal to the sailor who wanted a lot of boat at an affordable price.

As long as a buyer understands that, not expecting custom quality at barnyard prices, the Hunter 30 can be a good value in a used boat. Many on the used market today have been repowered and had systems upgrades added like refrigeration. Be sure to look for delamination issues, check the nonskid, and examine the cabinhouse around the mast for sagging, as many of these Hunters have had compression post issues.

Its easy to pay too much for a used boat these days, but for a good-condition, roomy coastal cruiser that can make a good showing around the buoys, the Hunter 30 can be had at a decent price-a lot of cruisability for minimal investment. Youll find Hunter 30s on the used-boat market to be priced about the same as comparable boats (Catalina 30 and Pearson 30), with an average pricetag of about $13,500.

Pros -Many have been re-rigged for easy singlehanding from the cockpit -Roomy cockpit for a 30-footer -Minimal topside brightwork -Sizeable anchor well on deck -Many have been upgraded to furling headsails -Handholds run the full length of cabin

Cons -Limited foredeck space -Very narrow sidedecks -Standard, original ventilation was lacking, needs upgrades -Pre-1980 bench seats trap water, need drain added

Hunter Marine built the 30 with an aim to maximize interior space. 1. The galley came standard with an alcohol stove, a deep ice box, and a small sink; many owners have updated the cooktop and added some type of refrigeration. The sink is too small to effectively wash dishes. 2. The settees offer full-length berths. 3. The H30 fits a fair bit of interior storage in a small space, including drawers behind and under the settees. 4. The V-berth has additional storage under the bed, which is large enough to comfortably sleep two (friendly) adults. 5. A very small nav desk and a full-length quarter berth are situated to port of the companionway. Electronics can be mounted inside the companionway.

In construction, the Hunter 30 is very conventional—an economical, solid-glass layup in the hull and a balsa-cored deck with plywood for backing under cleats. A conventional flange, with a through-bolted aluminum toerail joins the hull and deck together. The basic construction is quite a contrast to that of present-day Hunters, which can generally be described as highly engineered and Euro-styled, at the opposite end of the spectrum from the early Hunters like the 30.

Testers’ opinion of the fiberglass work was that it was good but a little light—marginal for offshore sailing but strong enough for typical coastal cruising.

On one of the Hunter 30s we looked at, there was extensive delamination of the cockpit sole and the bench seats. There also were signs of sloppy glass work—ragged edges and un-resinated glass—in compartments and other out-of-sight places.

Quality-control problems also were cited by a surprisingly high number of the Hunter 30 owners we surveyed for this article. The problems often mentioned included improperly hooked-up fuel-return lines, chafed hoses, leaking ports, poorly fitted hatch boards and lazarette covers, improperly installed exhaust systems, and so on.

The Hunter 30 compares favorably, in price and performance, to other production boats in the same size range and of similar vintage.

• Marlow-Hunter
• Hunter Owners Group

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Great review and enlightening! Thanks for your knowledge!

Great coverage on the 30! I owned a Hunter 30 1994-2000. Live aboard at Harbor Island San Diego. Very nice experience. Yes, the Yanmar 15 was a bit noisy. I thought For a while there was mechanical issues but Found out it was it’s nature.

Good article. I bought a 1977 Hunter 30, and it does sail surprisingly well for a older production boat. The engine works okay but is a bit noisy. It will soon be for sail as my daughter is the sailor and moved overseas for college.

Almost 40 years in my 1978 27 ft. Your comments were all on the mark. The original 8 hp gave out after 30 years and repowered with the 15 hp and replace the packing stuffing box with seal. Replaced the ports in the head and vee. For the time available I had to sail it worked out well. Fifteen years on Great Lakes and 22 plus in FL.

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• 30 Ft Sailboat

30 Ft Sailboat Boats for sale

1-15 of 110

Sailboat Pearson 30 ft

South Portland, Maine

Make Pearson

Category Sailboats

Length 30.0

Posted Over 1 Month

Here is a rare opportunity to purchase a vessel with extensive upgrades for a fraction of cost. "Dancer" was purchased by the current owner in 2013, who replaced major systems and components with the intention of keeping her for many years. Over $30,000 was invested in the first year, however a sudden change of plans forces "Dancer" to go up for sale. All mechanical invoices are available for review. Upgrades include:New engine 2014New exhaust system 2013Cutlas bearing 2013Shaft and strut 2013Bilge pump 2013Propane system 2014New wheel 2014Sails---main and jib 2012 Please contact Eric Fortier at cell number 207-590-1360 (Toll-free 877-241-2594) where boat is locatedAt South Port Marine, 14 Ocean Street, South Portland, Maine 04106, USA (If you need additional information, call owner John Salo at 617-590-2244)

Miami Beach, Florida

Make Beneteau

ngine hours (total): 500 length overall (LOA): 39 make / manufacturer: Beneteau propulsion type: sail year manufactured: 1991 length overall (LOA): 39 make / manufacturer: 1991 Beneteau Oceanis 390 propulsion type: sail year manufactured: 1991 Beneteau oceanis 390 owners version building 1991 powered by Universal diesel very good and clean boatThe BENETEAU Oceanis 390 (39')Owner's Version (Special Layout Design) is the two cabin layout, two head arrangement with separate walk in shower, A large L-Shaped sofa and large folding teak table, galley is to starboard entering from the cockpit, there is also a starboard entrance to the aft cabin, there is a large double berth, a sit down navigation station then aft a head, the main salon is very light and features center line teak table drop-leaf with L-shaped convertible settee at starboard, going forward the head is also starboard with hanging locker to port. The spacious salon is large enough for everyone. Boats for Sale Search YachtWorld United States (change) 1991 Beneteau Oceanis 390 Owners Version Boat Name NOBLE AMBITIONS Specs Builder: Beneteau Dimensions LOA: 39 ft 0 in Beam: 13 ft 5 in LWL: 36 ft 8 in Maximum Draft: 4 ft 6 in Bridge Clearance: 54 ft 5 in Engines Engine 1: Engine Brand: Universal Year Built: 1991 Engine Model: 3m20 Engine/Fuel Type: Diesel Engine Hours: 568 Tanks Fresh Water Tanks: (40 Gallons) Fuel Tanks: (45 Gallons) Holding Tanks: (1 Gallons) Accommodations Number of twin berths: 2 Number of cabins: 2 Number of heads: 2 Layout & Accommodations Salon: Headroom: 6'5 Lockers under berths with rigid water tank (40 gal.) Table with fiddlers, bottle rack Anodized aluminum mast support Deck liner with wooden panels, access to mast wires, sliding shutters Opening deck hatch Opening port in coach house Fixed porthole Bar and shelf along the hull Fluorescent light above table Cushions and backrests with removable covers Grab rail Teak and holly floorboards Forward Cabin: Double bed Lockers on the hull Stowing space under berth Seat with stowing space Shelf, drawer & mirror Hanging locker Two fixed ports Ventilation through dorade Ceiling light Two reading lights Curtains Wooden paneling and vinyl lining Forward head: Formica laminated bulkhead Marine toilet with holding tank Stowage with mirror and door Wash basin with hot and cold pressurized water with shower Opening deck hatch Ventilation through dorade Fluorescent light Accessories: glass with holder, towel holders, toilet paper holder Aft cabin: Double bed Shelf along the hull Hanging locker with mirror Vanity Drawer Settee with stowage Two opening ports on coach roof and cockpit Ceiling lamps Reading lamps Ventilation through dorade Access to back of engine, stern gland, engine water intake and electrical bilge pump Aft marine head with separate stall water Aft head: White Formica laminated bulkhead USCG Marine head with holding tank Washbasin with hot and cold pressurized water Mirror & Shelves Stowing space under washbasin Opening port Fixed port in hull Ceiling light Ventilation through dorade box Accessories: glass with holder, towel holders, toilet paper holder Separate shower Galley The well ventilated functional galley will bring out the cook in everyone. Designed for extended cruising, this vessel offers a large refrigerator/icebox, 3 burner stove with oven and hot &cold pressurized water, stainless steel sinks and stowage space. Hot/Cold pressure water in showers and galley, Immersion Heater & Calorifier , 12v Refrigerator , Cooker/Oven/Grill, Radio (VHF), Cockpit cushions, Showers with self-activated pump-out Electronics & Navigation Chart table with stowing space for charts Shelves under chart table Bookshelf Panel for navigation instruments Electronic panel, 16 functions, hinged for easy access to wiring Fluorescent light Chart reading light Electrical, Power & Plumbing 12v / 120v including shore supply, Hot/Cold pressure water in showers and galley , Immersion Heater & Calorifier , 12v Refrigerator , Cooker/Oven/Grill , Radio CD-Player ,Speakers in saloon and cockpit (with fader), Showers with electric pump-out Deck & Equipment Bow stemhead fitting with anchor roller, fast track attachment, and 2 fairleads with built-in rollers (patented) Self bailing anchor well with mooring eye Mechanical windlass One opening hatch for lighting and ventilation of front cabin and head Pulpit with navigation lights Opening aft push pit with horseshoe buoy support and teak flag pole Anodized aluminum toe rail with 4 fair heads in-corporating built-in rollers (patented), 2 aft and 2 amidships Stainless steel profiled stanchions Double s/s lifelines with opening gates Four dorades with s/s guards Genoa tracks with adjustable car Two teak grabrails Mainsail traveler with adjustable car One winch Lewmar 30 S/T or equivalent for main sheet with cleat One winch Lewmar 30S/T or equivalent for main halyard and reefing lines Two Footblocks Two Lewmar 46 S/T (or equivalent) genoa sheet winches with cleat Four blocks for reefing lines with jammers Two genoa turning blocks Slatted teak seating in cockpit Cockpit table Teak cockpit grating Steering wheel (leather covered) with pedestal compass Two sail lockers with life raft storage in cockpit One gas bottle locks One bathing platform, teak laid, with 2 lockers Rubber protection at base of transom S/s chain plates for shroud, forestay, baby stay and backstay One winch handle holder One double action manual bilge pump One aft self-bailing anchor well One aft anchor roller Swim ladder Companionway step/locker Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android

Cal 30 ft sailboat with condo slip

Huntingtown, Maryland

dsl, roller furling, 410-245-4391

1979 30 ft tall rig catalina sailboat

Ruskin, Florida

Very well maintained 1979 Catalina. Full bottom redone on Jan 2014, diver cleaned every month. 2012 Mercury 20 HP outboard engine with less than 500 hrs. Original wood interior in excellent condition, new stays and shrouds were installed, as well as a new custom made set of spreders made to factory standards were installed in order to maintain its original look and its antique vessel tax status. Perfect boat for day cruising. Included are original mainsail, jib and a genoa. Interior engine was removed by the previous owner, but its ready for install if wanted. Needs a new owner that has the time and ability to take her out as much as it should.

1982 Ericson 30 sailboat

Islamorada, Florida

Make Ericson

Her name is Velero. Has a Universal Diesel engine. 30ft x 12ft. 4 extra sails + Dinghy with oars. Needs 1 more battery to start engine.

1982 Ericson 30+ Sailboat

Model 30 Plus

Category Racer Boats

Length 32.0

I lived on this boat for 3 years and sailed it from TX with my husband who is not here anymore. Someone was living on it the last 4 months and did a few repairs as well so its very well taken care of. So far this is what i know about the boat: it has An inboard 5416 Diesel 16HP water cooled engine. Two mainsails in above average condition, two roller furling Genoas, Storm jib and Crusing Spinnaker with snuff ring. 47.2 ft mast, 4 ft Keel. Manual head, engine serviced and cooling system cleaned 2 years ago at least. Some minor cosmetic wears and tares. I own the title. And have the new registration. Anchored behind the Lorelei @ mm 81.9

Catalina 30 Sailboat

Elephant Butte, New Mexico

30' Catalina 30, 1977 For Sale in Elephant Butte, New Mexico Catalina has been one of the most popular sailboat builders in America. Designed by legendary boat builder Frank Butler, the Catalina 30 has been one of the most popular and longest production cruisers of any boat in her class. Her beamy 10' 10" hull provides for a spacious cabin that is perfectly laid out for cruising. Her heavy ballasted shoal draft keel and tall-rig design enable her to perform with excellent sailing characteristics in a wide variety of wind conditions. She is a deck-stepped masthead sloop with single upper shrouds and spreaders, double lower shrouds, split adjustable backstay, with an rigid boom vang, Harken furling head sail, and a custom balanced rudder for added performance. Her cockpit is equipped with two primary two speed Lewmar 40 winches and a Lewmar single speed winch at the foot of the mast. Her pedestal steering and large wrap around cockpit seating offers plenty of room for captain and crew while maintaining easy access to winches, clutches, and lines. Below deck her roomy forward v-berth offers ample room for two adults, aft of the main cabin and to port is her head with standup shower and a large hanging lock to starboard. Further aft she has a large L-shaped dinette with starboard settee and well appointed galley. The convenient navigators station to starboard offers a great place to plot your course and plan your next adventure! Her tall-rig, custom balanced rudder, and stiff sailing characteristics make this Catalina 30 an absolute pleasure to sail. Day sails, week long cruises, and the occasional club race can all be enjoyed in this beautiful sailboat. Contact the listing broker today for more details! *She can be seen by appoint by contacting the listing broker today. Her owner is motivated and will consider all reasonable offers. You may also make an Internet offer contingent to your personal inspection and contingencies. Call or email today to arrange for a viewing or to submit an offer. We look forward to hearing from you. Additional Specs, Equipment and Information: Specs Builder: Catalina Designer: Frank Butler Flag of Registry: United States Keel: Fin Dimensions LOA: 29 ft 11 in Beam: 10 ft 10 in Maximum Draft: 4 ft 4 in Dry Weight: 10200 lbs Engines Total Power: 30 HP Engine 1: Engine Brand: Atomic Engine Model: 4 Engine/Fuel Type: Gas/Petrol Propeller: 3 blade propeller Engine Power: 30 HP Tanks Fresh Water Tanks: (15 Gallons) Fuel Tanks: (18 Gallons) Holding Tanks: (18 Gallons) Accommodations Number of double berths: 2 Number of cabins: 1 Number of heads: 1 Electronics Plotter GPS Compass Radio VHF CD player Rigging Steering wheel Inside Equipment Electric bilge pump Hot water Electric head Outside Equipment/Extras Swimming ladder

1982 Non Such Hinterhouller sailboat 30ft x 12ft

Woodstock, Georgia

Make Non Such

1982 Non-Such Hinterhouller Cat boat. These are Great sailing boats and very easy to sail. Once the sail is up you can just sit back and enjoy the ride. Tacking is so easy and this boat responds in the lightest wind. The cockpit is huge for a 30 foot boat. The 12 ft beam is incredible inside. It has the room of most 35ft boats. The Volvo inboard runs great and has plenty of power. The teak holly floor is in great shape and was replace once. The boat needs some work but is in sail shape and is taken out as is. The paint below the rub rails need to be painted and new bottom paint which is why its the cheapest 30 ft non- such in the world. It was out the water and cleaned 2 years ago. This boat brings 35-50k in top shape please do your research you will not have a chance to get a working sailing Non-Such for such a great deal. The boat needs some tlc new lines, cleaning, overall exterior cleaning and teak work, but is overall very sound. This is the perfect boat for an elder sailor or someone that loves to sail with very little work like I said you sit back and have fun no winching when your sailing. Forward Cabin. . Double Berth to Port, single berth Starboard with upper shelf for storage. Beneath has storage space that includes two small vertical Drawers. The cushions are original and show wear but no rips. The Shower Salon and Head Area is very large with propane water heater. The Head area contains a Counter that includes a Stainless Steel Sink. Under the sink is storage space. The Galley is L shaped, and located on the Port side with a large Counter top. A deep Stainless Steel Sink is supported with both Manual and Automatic systems to provide Water Access. Located below the Sink is a stowage locker to store, Cleaners and various other articles. Also provides access to Bronze thru Hole fittings, and pump for different water flow setting. Aft of the cold storage area is a Gimbaled Range Stove and Oven. Aft is a 6'6 Foot Settee and under the Settee is the other water tank plus additional storage. Sail area is an incredible 540 Sq. feet, with two reefing points. Raising the Sail is simplified via the use of the windless. In addition to Raising the sail, all aspects of necessary sail adjustments, including, reefing are controlled within the Cockpit. When the Sail is lowered, it settles into Lazy Jack Lines. The sail is original and in good working order. There are three lockers in the Cockpit, Port and Starboard, with easy access to the Engine, the third aft for two Propane tanks. Extra lines etc. This boat is built like a brick shit house. It leaks no water and I would sail it anywhere. It is a great live aboard. The folding swim Ladder is located on the Stern. Custom made Cockpit Cushions cover the entire seating area. There is a bimini frame needs new cover. Forward, the Vessel has a bowsprit with rollers to accommodate two anchors, A 35 lb. CQR and 30 lb. Danforth.... Additional Equipment included: Fire extinguishers, fenders, life jackets, Dock lines and extra lines. I have a great shipper and have can get a quote for you around 2500 to Panama city or Ga coast. This is at your expense. I am working slowly on the boat and it will be slowly going up in price. I require a 1000k deposit in 2 days and total payment in 7 days. If you put a deposit on it and come see it you can get your deposit back if you don't like it. If you don't even show up deposit will not be refunded. Please call before you buy it now. Due to people not even coming to see it. It is in lake Lanier in Atlanta Ga. Thank you for reading my ad Capt Darrell 404 201 4812. Call 8am to 8 pm eastern time please. More pics coming.

27Ft Sailboat, Dofour Safari

Huron, Ohio

Make Dufour

Model Safari

Category Daysailer Sailboats

Length 27.0

This is an outstanding READY TO SAIL Sloop. Length 27 Ft , beam 9.2Ft, draft 4.3 Ft. Used in fresh water on Lake Huron and on Lake Erie. There are impressive upgrades and improvements aboard this vessel. A new navy blue bimini was installed new this year and not on the pictures, but comes with boat. The power train consists of a professional factory rebuild on a Westerbeke four cylinder self-bleeding 30 HP Diesel (80 hrs.). Oil changes can be done in less than 15 minutes!. The attached drivetrain is 100% new as of 2014 as follows: Damper plate, Heavy duty adapter plate, Z-transmission, Coupler, Drive Shaft, Dripless seal, Cutlass bearing, Zinc, Engine rails and Mounts. This drive train provides superior maneuverability, smoothness, and quiet operation in any weather conditions and quickly starts in warm or cold temperatures. The rigging is in excellent condition with dual back stays, six shrouds and furling forestay. The aluminum mast features interior lines and floatation, All safety lines are new with heavy duty ¼ in ss cable and fittings. Sails consist of a nearly new 135% furling Genoa (This is a high end QUANTUM SAIL with all the bells and whistles) costing in excess of $2k. This sail is crispy and white complete with Sunbrella sun guard. The main is a fully battened Ray Leonard with double slab reefing and is in great shape (no rips or repairs) and comes with a matching Sunbrella sun cover. Lewmar winches in good working order, CSI Flexible Furler, Boomvang, Cunningham, Travel Car for main sheet,CQR 20 pound anchor and 100 feet of rope with short SS chain. 2nd Danforth lunch hook anchor, Simpson Lawrence 600 Electric windlass with capstan and deck mounted foot switches, Standard marine radio, New blue sea systems AC and DC electrical panels and all new wiring throughout, including the mast, new Moore digital sonar depth sounder, Bulkhead mounted compass and speed log. The hull is solid hand laid glass in superior condition with new Groco seacocks. The hull was awlgripped a few years back. Misc: Transom mounted SS swim ladder, solid SS bow cleats, Cabin fan, Halogen and LED interior lights, Custom dinette, New interior Cushions, Cockpit cushions (open cell foam), Electric and manual bilge pumps, plug in shore power and plug in generator wiring, SS fuel tank, Solid Brazilian cherry cabin sole, Map table with storage, Panasonic SS inverter microwave, Butane stove top burner, built in icebox and ice chest, deep sink, New Sealand toilet with new 7 gallon holding tank, and electric pump water flush, two New water storage tanks and all new water hoses and deck fittings for toilet, Hanging closet , V-bunk cabin with locking doors. This is a superior sailing boat with a very low center of gravity giving a stable ride without excessive healing. This sailboat is at its best in heavy weather. A great interior (see photos). And some other items not mentioned/pictured here. There is over twenty thousand dollars invested in this fine boat. Clear Ohio title. NOTE! The trailer shown with the boat is NOT part of this auction but is available for purchase (see details below).The trailer is a custom designed trailer and built in an iso certified mfg. facility on a Venture triaxle. It is unique in that it will transport a wide variety of both sailboats and power boats and can be changed over in under an hour with just a set of standard wrenches. Specs. are as follows; Max boat length power or sail= 32 feet, max payload=13000 lbs. keel depth up to 6 ft. The trailer has truck style heavy duty drum brakes on all three axles. It has a 7 inch high strength beam with 10 guage hot dipped galvanized cross members. If the winning bidder on the sailboat opts to buy the trailer the price would be 8,000 (firm) and paid for separate from ebay. If not, the trailer will be listed later at 9,000. The trailer has only 3500 miles and would cost 12,500 if you buy it as a new trailer.Shipping will be the responsibility of the buyer.Please see my 500+ all positive feedback, bid with confidence.

Catalina 30Tall Rig Sailboat

Bridgeport, Connecticut

Make Catalina

Model 30 Tall Rig

Category Cruiser Motorcycles

Im the second owner of this beautiful boat since 2011 and I have All documentation for entire history, maintaining etc... The Catalina 30 has proved to be one of the most popular sailing vessels afloat. This entry level boat is safe, and spacious. With the combination of self tailing winches, and furling Genoa make her a very simple single handed sailor. This is a fine example of the line, she shows well and will need minimal effort to get her out there. Why not? Come take a look!Boat NameSOLINASpecsKeel: FINDimensionsLOA: 29 ft 11 inBeam: 10 ft 10 inMaximum Draft: 5 ft 3 inDisplacement: 10200 lbsBallast: 4200 lbsHeadroom: 6 ft 0 inEnginesTotal Power: 23 HPEngine 1:Engine Brand: Universal DieselYear Built: 1989Engine Model: MX-25 Engine Type: InboardEngine/Fuel Type: DieselEngine Hours: 1500Propeller: 3 blade propellerDrive Type: Direct DriveEngine Power: 23 HPTanksFresh Water Tanks:1 (43 Gallons) 2( 25 Gallons) Fuel Tanks: (16) Gallons)Holding Tanks: (17 Gallons)AccommodationsNumber of single berths: 1Number of double berths: 2Number of cabins: 1Number of heads: 1ElectronicsCockpit speakersCompassVHFDepthsounderLog-speedometerAuto Pilot -wind speedoSailsFurling genoaBattened mainsailspinnakerRiggingSteering wheelInside EquipmentHot waterMicrowave ovenElectric bilge pumpMarine headManual bilge pumpBattery chargerRefrigeratorgas stove Electrical EquipmentShore power inletElectrical Circuit: 110V20Amp charger Outside Equipment/Extrasshower Cockpit tableSwimming ladderCoversBimini TopDoger Deck cousin Please contact.cell [email protected]

Offshore Sailboat

Toronto, Ontario

Make Murray 33

Length 33.0

33 ft Ted Brewer designed cruising Cat-Ketch (Steel Hull) with 2 unstayed 50ft carbon fiber masts, fully battened sails. Professionally finished, 28 HP Volvo diesel, isolation transformer, 1500 Watt inverter, 30A battery charger, high output (120A) alternator with 3 stage regulator, Propane stove w. Oven, Propane sniffer, 2 external 20lb Propane tanks, Microwave, 12V fridge/freezer, Lavac head, VHF, Stereo w. 10CD changer, GPS, Autohelm, Raymarine A57D Depthfinder/GPS/Chartplotter with all Canadian Charts, Radar, 200W solar panels, Watermaker, 1 fresh & 1 saltwater pressure pump, 1 electric & 1 manual bilge pump, macerator pump for pumpout, bilge alarm, 3 solar vents (24 hr. type) SS Davits, SS Bow & Stern pulpits, SS bow roller, SS Stanchions & lifelines, 2 aluminum boom vangs, 3 Anchors(Delta, Bruce, Danforth), Parachute anchor, Muir “Cheetah” electric windlass, Pedestal Steering, Laptop hookup to GPS, 17” remote LCD colour display in cockpit, 2 self tailing Anderson F405T winches, Hard (Fiberglass) Dodger, Sunbrella Bimini, cockpit cushions, complete cockpit enclosure, Leecloths, SS Boarding Ladder. Commissioned in 1998. Sailed in Lake Ontario only. Loc’n: Lake Ontario, Whitby, ON Specs: LOA 33ft, Beam 10Ft 11in, LWL 27ft Depth 5ft10”, Displ. 15 000 lbs, Ballast 5200 lbs, Headroom 72.5” V-berth: LxW 74”x63.5” Q-Berth: 77” Stbd Berth:78.25” Port Berth (Double- drop table): 72” Cockpit: 6 ft Registration # : 822460 This is a custom built vessel (Cost $200 000+) and has been well maintained. With modern epoxy paints, a well maintained steel hull will easily last 100 years or more. The boat has only been sailed in Lake Ontario. No salt water exposure. One owner, excellent condition, will assist with delivery (help to sail her to her new home to assist new owner with getting to know boat and equipment, if so desired, or arrange for trucking). Have enjoyed sailing this boat safely and comfortably since 1998 and would sail her anywhere with complete confidence.

1977 Helms 24' Sailboat

Dawsonville, Georgia

Model 24' Sailboat

4200 lbs./ 1905 kgs. / 839 kgs. Helms Co. type: Lead First Built: 1977 Last Built: # Built: 750 RIG DIMENSIONS KEY I(IG): 30.50' / 9.30m J: 10.50' / 3.20m P: 25.50' / 7.77m E: 9.00' / 2.74m PY: EY: SPL/TPS: ISP: SA(Fore.): 160.13 ft2 / 14.88 m2 SA(Main): 114.75 ft2 / 10.66 m2 Total(calc.)SA: 274.88 ft2 / 25.54 m2 DL ratio: 207.46 SA/Disp: 16.94 Est. SA/Disp.: 16.95 Bal./Disp.: 44.04% Disp./Len.: 207.46 Designer: Stuart Windley Builder: Jack A. (USA) Construct.: FG Bal. Ballast: 1850 lbs. Helms Co. Forestay Len.: 32.26' / 9.83m BUILDERS (past & present) More about & boats built by: Helms - Jack A. DESIGNER More about & boats designed by: Stuart Windley Sailboats Cruiser 3441 PSN . 1977 Helms 24' Sailboat Nice Sailboat Hull Type: Fin w/transom hung rudder Rig Type: Masthead Sloop LOA: 23.92' / 7.29m LWL: 20.83' / 6.35m Beam: 8.83' / 2.69m Listed SA: 275 ft2 / 25.55 m2 Draft (max.) 4.17' / 1.27m Draft (min.) Disp...

Sailboat 35 ft., Columbia 10.7 meters

Richmond, California

Sailboat, 1978 Columbia Yacht 10.7 Meters, 35' Wide-body Super-cruiser (roomy), Model 351, Alan Payne, Designer, Excellent Condition with recent upgrades, Great SF Bay and Coastal Cruiser. Wonderful live-aboard qualities. We have tried to price this fairly, however please feel free to make a reasonable offer. We are willing to work with a serious buyer to better understand what kind of boat you get for the price here in the SF Bay area. Please know there are significant differences between a regular 35' Columbia and 10.7 metered Columbia which is 35' in length. Columbia Yacht builders created a "metered series" which are more luxurious yachts with teak and holly flooring, lots of beautiful teak in the interior and much more along with the famous "wineglass" transom. LOA 35'2", LWL 26'7", Beam 11'4", Draft 5'5", Displacement 13,900 lbs., Ballast 5100 lbs., Sloop Rig, Sail Area Totals 532 sq. ft., Main 222 sq. ft., Foretriangle 310 sq. ft. Lifelines and Standing rigging, new in 1999 New in 2007: Foam and Upholstery in Interior, Dodger and Sail Cover. Custom Mattress in V-Berth includes built-in Memory foam on one side Diesel Fuel tank 30 gal., Water tanks 88 gal., Sleeps 6, Cabin Headroom 6'2", Vertical Clearance 47'4" Diesel Engine: Yanmar 2QM20, 22 H.P. @3000 RPM Marine Reversing Gearbox (transmission) Model KBW10 with 2.14 gear ratio (Factory New, installed in 2000); Bronze 14x14 3-bladed Propeller. 3 Sails: A Fully Battened Dacron Main; with 120% Dacron Genoa on a Harken Jib Reefing and Furling System; New in 1997/like new condition now, Asymmetrical Nylon Spinnaker with ATN Spinnaker Sleeve and ATN Tacker. Navtec Hydraulic Backstay Adjuster Simpson Lawrence Hyspeed 510 Double Action Lever Windlass, RCA60 (New in 1997); CQR 35 Bow anchor with 3/8" x 150' of Chain plus 5/8" x 90' Braided Rode with double bow anchor rollers. Electronics: Furuno Marine Radar, Model-1720, 7 ranges from 0.25 to 16 nm; Garmin GPS, Model 120; Two VHF Radios, 1 in Cockpit and 1 at Nav. Station; AM/FM Radio/Tape player with inside and outside speakers. Edson, Aft cockpit pedestal steering wheel; Autohelm ST 4000 Wheeldrive Autopilot; The 10.7 Sailboat has a traditional wineglass transom that pulls the quarter wave aft, dampens pitching and makes for a balanced helm at all angles of heel. Split stern rail with swim/safety ladder Quick Vang, Model B-18 (Boom Vang eliminates Topping Lift) 3-Burner Propane Stove with Oven, Like new condition Stainless Steel Davit, used for raising Outboard motor and stern anchor. Spinnaker Pole 14'5" x 3 1/8" Bottom painted and hull waxed in November, 2014. Many more items not listed. As is for $39,995. All items in photos are subject to change without notice. Please assume this is available for sale as I will remove the listing when sold. Your phone number with any questions is helpful, thank you.

Sailboat 30 Feet Pearson Flyer Yanmar Diesel

Marblehead, Massachusetts

Model Flyer 30

1986 Pearson Flyer 30 ft sailboat with Yanmar Auxiliary motor, folding propeller, roller furling jib.

32ft O'Day tri cabin sailboat

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

32ft O'Day ctr cockpit tri cabin, 38ft loa yanmar diesel 3GM30F draft 3ft 4" 7ft 4" board down, roller furling headsail, aft capt state room w/sink and head, davit with 10ft 2" zodiac raft w/zuzuki 4 stroke outboard engine, generator, microwave, broiler, stove, refrig with freezer, 3 sets of anchors and rode, vhf 25w vhf 5 w GPS , spinnaker w/gear, cg kit, nav. station w/charts, gear, dinette. Main salon w/head and shower, 2 air conditioners. new bottom job Oct 2014. All new standing and running rigging. new turnbuckles, bimini, dodger. presently in dry stge. Great live aboard, Call Tom at 727 678 5479

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8 Best Catamarans That Are 30 Feet or Less

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Large-sized catamarans are appealing due to their ample spacing and comfort. Therefore, a cruising family or couple looking to buy a boat is more likely to go for one of these. But are there small cruising catamarans that provide the performance, comfort, and amenities found in larger boats?  

The best catamarans under 30 feet (9.14 m) include the TomCat 6.2, Cadillac 27and 30, Gemini 30, Endeavour 30, and Maine Cat. These time-tested cruising cats are easy to handle, premium built, and are great for daytime sailing, overnight trips, and some even suitable for long-range sea passages. 

In this article, you’ll find a list of the best cruising catamarans below 30 feet (9.14 m). Keep reading to discover which catamarans make this list, what they have to offer, their pros and cons, and how much they cost.

If you are unsure whether or not 30ft is too small for your needs, then I suggest you check out another article I wrote named Best Size Catamaran , it will discuss why length matters and how it affects safety.

Unlike most catamarans designed for racing purposes, the TomCat 6.2 is a medium-sized cat that’s well-suited to daytime cruising. It boasts high-quality construction, vacuum-bagged hulls, and a plywood-reinforced deck.

This 20 footer (6.09 m) comes with an 11-foot (3.35 m) beam and not only offers you safety and comfort but performance and versatility as well. 

This boat has a centrally placed outboard engine and two rudders that allow it to turn quickly and maneuver confidently into and out of marina slips. The 9.9 hp outboard propels it to speeds of around 8 knots (9.21 mph or 14.8 kph), though the boat has the potential to move faster if desired.

This simpler type of cat (just one engine as an example) also allows for cheaper and easier maintenance. Maintenance costs are something most people underestimate when getting a cat, if you want to get some real numbers from actual sailors then I suggest you read this article (How much does it cost to maintain a cat).

The boat sails with minimal heeling, comfortably accommodate 6-8 people, and you can sail it single-handed or take a crew. 

High and narrow hulls bearing arched bottoms allow for a low wetted surface. The hull design provides low resistance and a great deal of reserved buoyancy and also enables you to drive through closely spaced waves.

On most 20-footers (6.1 m), driving through waves generates a smooth but wet ride, but with the TomCat’s enclosed deck (link to parts names explained here ), you are safe and protected behind a windshield and the high bulwark.

The TomCat makes an excellent cruiser because it performs impressively well both under sail and power. It combines the performance of a modern sailing cat with the comfort, style, and convenience of a powerboat. It’s also trailerable since you can detach the hulls from the deck , winch up the deck on a trailer, and slide the hulls underneath.

But the best part is that it’s easy on the pocket, with the price ranging between $36,750 and $44,580 .

Catalac 30 (9M)

The Catalac brand consists of strongly built vessels that sport thick hulls, glass windows, narrow beams, and vertical transoms . Catalac 30 was the first vessel in this popular British cruising line designed by Tom Lack in the late 60s. The boat’s appeal was attributed to its safety, ample spacing, well-built interior, and load-carrying abilities.

These characteristics are extremely important on a safe catamaran, overloading your cat makes it sit lower in the water, increases drag, reduces handling and speed, there is stuff you should know about this (so that you can make an educated buy). I have created an article where I try to explain the basics of a safe cat ( link here )

Sporting 5 berths, a massive galley, plus a cockpit with a sheltered steering position, the 30-foot (9.1 m) Catalac makes an excellent floating home for a cruising family. It sails exceptionally well, doesn’t heel ( heeling explained here ), and delivers a reasonable motor-sailer level of performance.

Furthermore, the hulls provide adequate headroom, allowing those on board to move around comfortably, and there’s enough space on the deck for sunbathing. 

The Catalac’s structure features solid fiberglass, chined hulls, and a staggered sheerline that allows easy aft access. With a modest rig that’s easy to handle, the Catalac can deliver top speeds of up to 12-14 knots (13.81-16.11 mph / 22.22-25.9 kph) under sail.

Given that the boat’s design focuses more on comfort than speed, this is a spectacular performance.  

Catalac 9M requires a skilled hand when turning into the wind as it is prone to blowing sideways. This is because the boat lacks ballast (which helps in keeping momentum during a tack) but also centerboards ( explained here ).

Skills are always the most essential things to bring aboard and you can acquire them in many ways, my two favorite ways are through NauticEd courses (two free courses here ) or by reading books (my top 15 books here )

Back to the boat! This model came in two versions; the standard layout contained a 30-40hp outboard, while the second option had duo engines. The latter is easier to maneuver into a marina. 

These cats retain their value pretty well. However, they might not be easy to come by since most owners find it challenging to get their hands on a larger boat with similar qualities and performance.

A Catalac 30 (9M) goes for between $33,000 and $55,000.

Catalac 27 (8M)

The Catalac 27 8M is a pocket cruiser that boasts a strong reputation for high quality, durability, and strength. Besides, the boat’s design makes it somewhat suitable for bluewater sailing ( understand why the small size is an offshore problem).

Built like a battleship, the boat contains solid fiberglass hulls. Additionally, it comes with double engines, a large cockpit fitted with cushions all around, and features standing headroom in each hull.

Like the Catalac 9M, this boat comes with two different layouts; a twin inboard diesel engine or an outboard engine. The twin-engine models can motor up to 1000 km (621 miles, read more on cat fuel consumption here ) without needing to refuel, while the 70 amps of charge plus water tanks (70 gallons / 265 liters) make these vessels remarkable coastal cruisers. 

Catalacs equipped with outboard engines sail faster since you can raise the engine during sailing and are also lighter. This helps to minimize drag . Catalac 8M sports a short but thick mast that helps make the boat stable. 

Though small in size, this catamaran packs a lot of features in its small frame. It has a full-sized berth, a large galley that’s almost 8 feet (2.4 m) long, a quarter berth, head, and navigation station.

What’s more, the cockpit is as large as that of a 38 to 40-foot (11.5 to 12.1 m) cat.

Catalac 27 costs about $31,836.

The Endeavour 30 

The Endeavour 30 catamaran is a boat characterized by stability, ample deck space, and a spacious interior. It boasts fast cruising speeds under both sail and power.

The boat has mini keels and rudders plus symmetrical hulls separated by a hydra-cell. The latter is a center section with a characteristic V-shape. 

The boat’s vacuum-bagged construction helps enhance strength and stiffness while reducing weight. Furthermore, the interior has a fiberglass mold, providing extra strength and rigidity. With sufficient breeze, this vessel can deliver reasonable off-the-wind and doable upwind speeds.

As such, you can expect to attain speeds of about ~10 knots (11.51 mph or 18.5 kph) on power reaches. Below is a video showing a panoramic tour of the Endeavour 30:

This vessel has the internal capacity of a 40-foot (12.1 m) monohull. And you can tell this from the unique layout merging the cabin and cockpit with wide doors to the numerous features packed into this 30-foot (9.14 m) vessel.

It has a spacious salon, an enormous galley, two queen berth staterooms with plenty of storage space, a head with separate showers, and a sizable U-shaped dinette. 

You can get this boat for under $50,000 .

The Geminis by Tony Smith were the United States’s first production cruising cats. Today, these vessels remain the most appealing American-built cruising catamarans. Built between 1981 and 1990, the Gemini 30 does not have a contemporary design, but it works remarkably well for cruisers desiring generous living space in a small affordable sailboat.

At only 14 feet (4.2 m) across, Gemini cats are somewhat narrow. But this mean s they can easily fit into most of the regular marina berths.

Besides, the boats still contain enough interior space for a queen-size double berth and two smaller doubles housed in separate guest rooms.

There’s also a modest but serviceable saloon with duo settees and a collapsible table that can transform into an additional double berth.

For the Gemini 30, this translates to a cruising cat with standing headroom that can comfortably accommodate 3 couples in private cabins or a family with small children. A good-sized galley, a spacious head with a shower, nav desk, and a large comfy cockpit make up the Gemini 30’s cruising palace.

Catamaran layout is highly personal and if you want to learn more about different characteristics then I suggest you read my article Designing the perfect catamaran layout ( Link )

While not that fast, the Gemini 30 will easily outsail the Endeavor 30 discussed above. Its daggerboards (which are explained in detail here ) can point well, and if you keep it light, it can do 7-8 knots (12.9-14.8 km/hr) under sail.

Besides, raising the daggerboards reduces the wetted surface area, and increases the speed downwind.

The Gemini 30 tends to pound and hobbyhorse a little when sailing in choppy waters – particularly when overloaded (more on load carrying capabilities in this article ), but the deep pivoting daggerboards provide stability and lift underwater.

Furthermore, the Gemini’s retractable rudders enable it to venture into shallow waters.

This is a very popular cruising cat that’ll give you a lot of bang for your bucks.

You can find a Gemini for less than $65,000.

Maine Cat 30 

The Maine Cat 30 combines premium quality construction materials with the most advanced building techniques to create a lightweight vessel capable of handling most offshore conditions. What’s more, this boat can remain trouble-free for years on end with little effort.

If you are in the market for a simple liveaboard cruiser that you can use for a short weekend getaway or a cruising voyage, this is it.

The boat has a sizable primary stateroom berth with ample overhead space and a dresser fitted with a hanging storage cabinet. The enormous head includes a toilet, sink, 20-gallon (75.71 L) holding tank, vanity, and a pressurized shower.

Covering the open bridgedeck is a permanent hardtop. This spacious bridgedeck can hold quite a crowd and comes with a convertible dinette that turns into an extra berth. If need be, you can even enclose the entire space using acrylic windows or screens. Gabo

The 360-degree visibility from the cockpit allows the captain plus the crew a panoramic view, and all sail controls go back to the cockpit, which is very useful if wanting to sail single-handedly.

I believe that most boats should be set up in this way since sooner or later you might be in a situation where there is only one person to handle the controls, such as in an emergency. But more on that in another article ( Link ).

The Maine Cat 30 is a classic boat that delivers on high-performance multihull sailing. Designed to offer much better performance than catamarans bearing tall and heavy bridge decks, this cat weighs less and suffers less windage thanks to the acrylic windows.

The boat’s interior layout allows for easy cleaning as surfaces sport a smooth gel coat and satin-finished cherry trim. The solid but lightweight furniture bears the same Core-Cell foam core employed on the hull, deck, and hardtop. Plus, there’s ample storage for all your sailing equipment, cleaning supplies, and provisions.

A Maine Cat 30 can cost up to $110,000.

Heavenly Twins 27

The overall design of this well-equipped catamaran makes it a superb pocket cruiser.

Heavenly Twins 27 manages to fit not one but two coachroofs on hulls that are only 27 feet (8.20 m) long. Canoe sterns and a central cockpit separating the duo coachroofs form the boat’s other prominent features. 

Famous for their excellent build quality, medium-depth draft, and narrow beams, Heavenly Twins 27 appeals to a wide range of boating enthusiasts.

These include solo sailors, weekend sailors, cruising families, circumnavigators, beginner sailors, and experienced liveaboards such as this famous Youtube channel “Kittiwake”.

The vessels house double cabins in the hulls while the forward starboard contains the heads and, to port, the galley. You can easily access the bar from the well-protected cockpit while the Comfordesk accommodation converts into a double dock. 

A stoop through allows access from below-deck to the aft compartment without going through the cockpit. There’s ample storage space throughout the boat, plus you can section off the large stateroom into smaller double compartments if desired.

The price range for this boat is $ 20,098 to $24,193. (I believe that kittiwake is for sale too)

The last cruising catamaran on my list is the Aquilon 26 . This French-built cruising vessel is light in weight and trailerable, which means you can disassemble it in a few hours or transport it as-is.

Designing a boat that is possible to disassemble usually means that it is structurally less strong, which by no means is a problem during coastal sailing but the Aquilon 26 is mostly attractive to sailors who prefer inland lake sailing. It’s also suitable for beginner sailors.

Although there are no real “beginner cats” there are specs to consider if you are a beginner with catamarans, most of them I have listed in another article ( here ). Gabo

This 26-footer (7.92 m) has the potential for good speed though its layout is anything but conventional- which forms part of its appeal.

The cockpit works as the saloon, and a full bimini protects the crew from lousy weather. The starboard hull contains a dinette and galley, and the port has a double berth stateroom. The windows are quite unusual, but they provide lots of light, remarkably enhancing interior visibility.

Aquilon 26 can deliver an average cruising speed of 10knots (11.51 mph or 18.5 kph).

On a beam reach, you can expect around 25 knots (28.77 mph or 46.3 kph) with an adequate breeze ( I have never sailed at 25knots but researching this boat supposedly it is possible).

You can get this boat for under $50,000.

What Makes Small Cruising Cats Attractive?

Small cruising cats are ideal for sailing along the coast. But that’s not all. Under capable hands, properly fitted smaller cats can also deliver spectacular offshore passages similar to their larger counterpart (Heres a list of full-sized bluewater cats).

They can operate over long cruise ranges, cross oceans , and circumnavigate the globe . Smaller cats are also suitable for day sailing, overnight trips, and coastal or inland voyages. 

For most sailors, comfort on board is crucial, so they’ll look for a vessel that guarantees a comfortable cruising experience. The good thing is that smaller vessels provide almost the same qualities and amenities that bigger vessels offer. Plus, you can do quite a bit with the available space, especially if it’s well laid out.  

You’ll find that most 30-footer (9.14 m) or more miniature cruising cats comprise a galley, head, bunks, navigation and entertainment electronics, and refrigeration.

Sailors usually talk about these benefits of smaller cats:

• They’re less expensive. Large boats are costly to buy. They also cost more to hire, maintain, and dock. You can buy a small-sized boat at a much lower price, and parts tend to cost less too. Besides, you get to use smaller sails, winches, and lighter lines than those applicable on a larger boat. And since marine services such as moorings and haul-outs get billed via boat length, a smaller cat makes sailing more affordable.
• They boast superior builds. Most cruising boats under 30 feet (9.14 m) feature designs that are 30+ years old. In those days, weather forecasts were hard to come by and not as accurate, so boat builders used hulls with thicker fiberglass than the type found in today’s builds. Furthermore, everything in the boat, including rigs, rudders, hulls, keels and decks, was designed to withstand strong winds and high waves. 
• They have simpler systems. This means less time spent fixing and maintaining your boat. For instance, most small cruising cats often lack water-makers, hot water systems, or electric anchor windlasses. 
• They’re easier to handle. Smaller cats are simpler to sail than larger cats. It’s also easier to sail one single-handed or with a small crew.

What is the largest cat on person can sail?

The Disadvantages of Smaller Cruising Cats

Below are some of the most discussed downsides of small cats:

• They have limited living space, storage, and amenities.
• Though they don’t heel much, they are less comfortable than larger boats since they get tossed around much more easily in big ocean swells.
• It’s not easy to accommodate crew for extended periods; hence there are fewer hands to share work.
• They are slower and take longer to get to their destination.

Though fewer are on the cruising trails than their larger counterparts, small catamarans make ideal cruisers because they are simple, seaworthy, and pocket-friendly.

When choosing the best cat for your needs, focus on quality rather than size. A well-planned 30-footer (9.14 m) is reliable and provides ample space for your accommodation, dining, and relaxation, plus a storage room for provisions and any spare parts you might need. 

And if you want even more info than I have presented to you in this article I would recommend a book from Serj, he makes it easy to understand why size matters and how to find a cat suited for your needs (amazon link )

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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Our editorial staff selected 9 small sailboats under 30′ from all over the world. Today small sailboats have electronics for navigation and entertainment, an engine for light wind and accomodations to sleep onboard. Which is your preferred one between these 9 small sailboats?

Albin Vega 27

The Albin Vega 27 is a fiberglass sailboat that was produced by the Albin Motor Boat Company in the 1970s. It is a small, versatile vessel that is popular with sailors due to its good performance and comfortable interior. The Albin Vega 27 has a length of 27 feet (8.2 meters) and a beam (width) of 8.1 feet (2.46 meters). It is designed to be sailed single-handed, but can accommodate up to six people.

• Hull Type:  Long fin keel
• Hull Material:   GRP (fibreglass)
• Length Overall:  27′ 1″ / 8.25m
• Waterline Length:  23′ 0″ / 7.01m
• Beam:  8′ 1″ / 2.46m
• Draft:  3′ 8″ / 1.12m
• Rig Type:  Masthead sloop
• Displacement:  5,070lb / 2,300kg
• Designer:  Per Brohall
• Builder:  Albin Marine AB (Sweden)
• Year First Built:  1965
• Year Last Built:  1979
• Number Built:  3,450

Alpin Ballad 

• Hull Type:  Fin with skeg-hung rudder
• Length Overall:  29′ 11″ / 9.12m
• Waterline Length:  22′ 7″ / 6.88m
• Beam:  9′ 8″ / 2.95m
• Draft:  5′ 1″ / 1.55m
• Rig Type:  Masthead Sloop
• Displacement:  7,276lb / 3,300kg
• Designer:  Rolf Magnusson
• Builder:  Albin Marine (Sweden)
• Year First Built:  1971
• Year Last Built:  1982
• Number Built:  1500

The Bristol 24 has a length of 24.6 feet (7.5 meters) and a beam (width) of 8 feet (2.4 meters). It is designed to be sailed by a small crew, but can accommodate up to four people. The boat has a displacement of 4,920 lb (2,685 kilograms) and is equipped with a standard keel.

• Hull Type:  Long Keel
• Hull Material:  GRP (Fibreglass)
• Length Overall:  24′ 6″ / 7.5m
• Waterline Length:  18′ 1″ / 5.5m
• Beam:  8′ 0″ / 2.4m
• Draft:  3′ 5″ / 1.0m
• Displacement:  5,920lb / 2,685kg
• Designer:  Paul Coble
• Builder:  Bristol Yachts inc (US)
• Year First Built:  1969
• Year Last Built:  1972
• Number Built:  800

Contessa 28

The Contessa 24 is a fiberglass sailboat that was designed by David Sadler and produced by the Contessa Yachts company in the 1970s. The Contessa 24 has a length of 27.8 feet (8.43 meters) and a beam (width) of 9.5 feet (2.87 meters). It is designed to be sailed by a small crew, but can accommodate up to four people. The boat has a displacement of 3,162 kilograms and is equipped with a fin keel, which provides stability and improves its performance in a range of wind and sea conditions.

• Hull Type:  fin keel with spade rudder
• Hull Material:  GRP (Fiberglass)
• Length Overall:  27′ 8″ / 8.43m
• Waterline Length:  22′ 0″ / 6.71m
• Beam:  9′ 5″ / 2.87m
• Draft:  4′ 10″ / 1.47m
• Rig Type:  Masthead sloop
• Displacement:  6,970lb / 3,162kg
• Designer:  Doug Peterson
• Builder:  Jeremy Rogers
• Year First Built:  1977

The Dufour 29 is a fiberglass sailboat that was produced by the Dufour Yachts company in the 1970s. The Dufour 29 has a length of 29.4 feet (8.94 meters) and a beam (width) of 9.8 feet (2.95 meters). It is designed to be sailed by a small crew but can accommodate up to six people. The boat has a displacement of 7,250 pounds (3,289 kilograms) and is equipped with a fin keel.

• Length Overall:  29′ 4″ / 8.94m
• Waterline Length:  25′ 1″ / 7.64m
• Draft:  5′ 3″ / 1.60m
• Displacement:  7,250lb / 3,289kg
• Designer:  Michael Dufour
• Builder:   Dufour (France)
• Year First Built:  1975
• Year Last Built:  1984

Great Dane 28

The Great Dane 28 is a fiberglass sailboat that was produced by the Great Dane Yachts company in the 1970s. The Great Dane 28 has a length of 28 feet (8.5 meters) and a beam (width) of 10.4 feet (3.2 meters). It is designed to be sailed by a small crew, but can accommodate up to six people. The boat has a displacement of 8,500 pounds (3,856 kilograms) and is equipped with a fin keel.

• Hull Type:  Long keel with transom-hung rudder
• Length Overall:  28′ 0″ / 8.5m
• Waterline Length:  21′ 4″ / 6.5m
• Beam:  10′ 4″ / 3.2m
• Draft:  4′ 6″ / 1.4m
• Displacement:  8,500lb / 3,856kg
• Designer:  Aage Utzon in conjunction with Klaus Baess
• Builder:  Klauss Baess, Copenhagen (Denmark)
• Year Last Built:  1989
• Number Built:  300

The Sabre 27 is a fiberglass sailboat that was produced by the Sabre Yachts company in the 1970s. The Sabre 27 has a length of 27 feet (8.2 meters) and a beam (width) of 9 feet (2.6 meters). The boat has a displacement of 6,800 pounds (3,084 kilograms) and is equipped with a fin keel.

• Hull Type:  Fin and skeg-hung rudder
• Hull Material:  GRP (fibreglass)
• Length Overall:  27′ 0″ / 8.2m
• Waterline Length:  22′ 2″ / 6.8m
• Beam:  9′ 0″ / 2.7m
• Displacement:  6,800lb / 3,084kg
• Designer:  Alan Hill
• Builder:  Marine Construction Ltd (UK)
• Number Built:  400

• Hull Type:  Long keel with transom-hung rudder
• Length Overall:  28′ 3″ / 8.6m
• Waterline Length:  21′ 6″ / 6.6m
• Beam:  8′ 1″ / 2.5m
• Draft:  5′ 0″ / 1.5m
• Rig Type:  masthead sloop
• Displacement:  9,968lb / 4,521kg
• Designer:  Kim Holman
• Builder:  Uphams (UK) and Tyler (UK)
• Year First Built:  1964
• Year Last Built:  1983
• Number Built:  200

Westerly 22

The Westerly 22 is a fiberglass sailboat that was produced by the Westerly Yachts company in the 1970s. The Westerly 22 has a length of 22 feet (6.8 meters) and a beam (width) of 7.6 feet (2.3 meters).

• Hull Type:~  Bilge keel and skeg-hung rudder
• Hull Material:~  GRP (fibreglass)
• Length Overall:~  22′ 3″ / 6.8m
• Waterline Length:~  18′ 4″ / 5.6m
• Beam:~  7′ 6″ / 2.3m
• Draft:~  2′ 3″ / 0.7m
• Rig Type:~  Masthead Sloop
• Displacement:~  4,150lb / 1,429kg
• Sail Area/Displacement Ratio: ~ 16.95
• Displacement/Length Ratio: ~ 228
• Designer:~  Denis Rayner
• Builder:~  Westerly Marine Ltd (UK)
• Year First Built:~  1963
• Year Last Built:~  1967
• Number Built:~  332

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Best Trailerable Sailboats Under 30 Feet

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

Trailerable sailboats are the perfect solution for weekend or day cruisers. They're easy to store, transport, and set up, which gets you on the water fast.

Trailerable sailboats come in many different shapes and sizes. Many trailerable sailboats even have retractable keels, which not only comes in handy for towing, but also for sailing around shallower waters. Depending on how you plan on sailing, there's sure to be a trailerable sailboat that suits you and your family.

Below are the best trailerable sailboats under 20 feet, separated into their best use: day sailing and cruising.

Table of contents

Best Sailboats Under 30' for Day Sailing

Small, trailerable sailboats are great for daily use because they're easy to set up, and you can take them anywhere within driving distance and explore new areas.

This category of sailboat won't have a cabin, instead, these sailboats have plenty of room on deck for the whole family to enjoy a sailing adventure together. Many of these sailboats are faster and have less amenities than a cruising boat, which makes them easy to set up for a day use and offer a fun, sporty day activity.

{{boat-info="/boats/hunter-15"}}

The Hunter 15 is designed for safety and versatility. Without a cabin, it can fit up to four people on its benches. The Hunter 15' features high sides and a self-bailing cockpit, which makes it a great option for novices and kids.

The sailboat tows at 750 lbs, which means most vehicles can tow it. The retractable keel makes it so even lower vehicles can tow the boat.

The retractable keel also makes it so you can beach the sailboat, something you can't do with a bigger sailboat. That makes sailing the Hunter 15 around coves and islands even more enjoyable. Explore hidden beaches by yourself or with friends and family. 

{{boat-info="/boats/laserperformance-laser-13"}}

The Laser sailboat has been a favorite among dinghy racers for years. That's because it's super lightweight, really fast, and fun.

Not only is the laser a fun craft, but it's also very easy to use and transport. Its lightweight is due to the fiberglass hull construction and lack of a keel. You can either tow the Laser, or you can even strap it to the top of a vehicle.

While going fast is fun, you don't have to race the Laser to have fun. The Laser is great for leisure sailing. Thankfully, since it is so light, you don't need much wind to have a great sailing day.

Since it is so small, it fits one to two people in its cockpit. Also, it's lack of keel means it is very easy to tip over . But, it's also very easy to flip back. If you're someone who doesn't want to get soaked, the Laser might not be for you.

But if you're looking for a way to get on the water without much fuss and special towing equipment, the Laser is perfect for you.

Catalina 16.5

{{boat-info="/boats/catalina-16-5"}}

Catalina has been a popular sailboat brand for decades, and there's no question that their larger crafts are some of the most common sailboats you see at any marina.

They're popular for good reason. Catalina sailboats are made with lightweight fiberglass and include standard, good quality rigging. They're affordable sailboats to buy new and easy to find used.

The Catalina 16.5 came into existence in 1994 and has remained on the market ever since. It comes in at under 500 lbs, which makes it easy to tow with just about any vehicle, so don't worry about adding a massive truck to your purchase.

This trailerable sailboat has a storage compartment in the front (great for packing a picnic and extra supplies) and can accommodate up to four adults. If you're looking for a boat you can spend all day sailing comfortably and not break the bank to purchase, the Catalina 16.5 might be the one for you.

{{boat-info="/boats/hobie-16"}}

Chances are, you've seen a Hobbie 16 on a beach somewhere. They're popular anywhere there's a body of water because they're fast and easy to operate. They're one of the most popular small crafts for youth sailing and racing. They're so popular that they were recently inducted into the Sailing Hall of Fame.

Hobbie 16s are recognizable because of their "banana-shaped" hulls and often colorful sails. Unlike the previously listed sailboats, these are catamarans. So, you get two hulls and a trampoline in between them. They also hold 1-4 people in their cockpits.

As a trailerable catamaran, you can't get much better. It's super lightweight, it has no keel, and it's easy to set up. Because of the catamaran style, you'll often see people having fun on these ocean beaches.

The two-hull design makes it less likely to capsize, and it's sturdy enough that you can take on bigger waves and stronger winds than some other trailerable sailboats .

Norseman 17.5

{{boat-info="/boats/norseboat-17-5"}}

The Norseman 17.5 is one of the more attractive boats on this list. It's not a racing boat-in fact, it's an ideal day cruiser.

It's a handcrafted cruiser, and it's designers nicknamed it the swiss army knife of sailboats because it's a sailboat and a rowboat all in one.

If you want something that looks and feels seaworthy but is still trailerable, the Norseman 17.5 hits the spot. It's low maintenance and expertly designed to be as efficient as possible. Because it's designed to mimic a more traditional, larger sailboat, it does have a fixed keel. But, that doesn't mean you can't trailer it still.

The dual purpose of the Norseman 17.5 is appealing because no matter what setting you're in, the Norseman 17.5 can perform, not unlike a swiss army knife. First and foremost, this boat is for sailing, and it gives a great sailing experience, not unlike any larger sailboat.

Best Trailerable Sailboats Under 30' for Cruising

Sailboats for camping come with a few more amenities. Many people prefer this kind of sailboat because it offers more freedom to stay overnight on the boat and make longer trips. Most of the time, they come equipped with a cabin for sleeping and cabin lights for a comfortable sleeping experience.

Most trailerable sailboats for cruising and camping are over 20' and cost more than a daysailer. They also typically weigh more and require a towing vehicle and special trailer because of their larger cabin space and equipment. Many people opt to put a trolling motor on the back of their pocket cruiser for getting in and out of slips and docks.

Even though they're tiny, many people spend their entire weekends or days on a small cruiser. Since they're more equipped for extended trips, you can sail along the coasts comfortably.

Catalina 22 Sport

{{boat-info="/boats/catalina-22-sport"}}

The Catalina 22 is one of the most popular sailboats in the United States. No matter where you are, you'll find a fleet of Catalina 22s at just about any marina. After they stopped making the original Catalina 22, the only way to find one (if you wanted to join a racing fleet) was to buy one used.

After years of demand, the sailboat manufacturer finally came out with the 22' Sport. It's just about the same as the original 22, so much so that you can join a Catalina 22 fleet among the original sailboats.

Catalina 22 Sport is a racing boat and a pocket cruiser. It's easy to trailer, easy to rig, and a great family sailboat.

{{boat-info="/boats/hunter-22"}}

Like its smaller relative, the Hunter 22 is known for being safe and sturdy, ready for adventure. It makes for an ideal daysailer or weekend tripper. Even though it's family-friendly, it's still capable of going fast. You can enter in a race or beach hop.

The Hunter 22 features a small cabin that's very comfortable for camping. It comes with a small stove, cooler, and toilet. There's a small dinette that converts to a bed, so you can go from breakfast to bed easily within the boat cabin.

The original Hunter 22 stopped production in 1985, but Hunter has since recently started making a new Hunter 22 that's even better than the original. Still, you'll find plenty of used Hunter 22s.

{{boat-info="/boats/sage-marine-sage-15"}}

The Sage 15' is a good looking compact, abstract-style sailboat. It's almost identical to its bigger counterpart, the Sage 17, but this model has a retractable keel.

On the water, you wouldn't guess the Sage 15 was a trailer sailer . It's got all the charm of a classic sailboat, with many of the amenities desirable in a pocket cruiser.

One thing to note is the mast and its rigging only weighs 20 pounds, which makes it easy to raise and lower by yourself. When you're towing to and from your location, you want the set up to be as easy as possible, so this is a huge plus.

This boat has room for two people on the deck and in the cockpit. It's perfect for people who enjoy a solo voyage here and there or for couples looking to have a day on the water every once in a while.

West Wight Potter 19

{{boat-info="/boats/west-wight-potter-19"}}

According to the West Wight Potter website, it only takes 45 minutes to rig a simple setup and get on the water. As far as trailerable sailboats go, the Potter 19' has all the amenities you could want for comfortable weekend getaways on the water.

Like almost all the boats on this list, the Potter 19 has a retractable keel and a self-bailing cockpit. It's stable and very unlikely to heel over too far. The Potter 19 is one of the most responsive sailboats in its class.

What makes the Potter 19 a great trailerable sailboat for camping is the spacious cabin. The cabin features two berths that can sleep four and seating for up to five people. The cabin also comes with a burner stove and a cooler. Depending on what your plans are, you can get the boat customized to your needs.

The West Wight Potter 19 makes the most out of its compact space, which makes it versatile. Also, with the trailer, the Potter 19 fits inside the standard garage. So, don't worry about paying marina fees when you can store your boat right in your garage.

{{boat-info="/boats/moore-24"}}

The last boat on this list is a trailerable sailboat that's proven seaworthy. The Moor 24 was famously sailed from Santa Cruz, California to Honolulu, Hawaii in 17 days. Not only is it seaworthy, but it's fast. The Moor 24 is a prime racing boat, and it's won many Cups.

The Moor 24 sailboat is not only a performance vessel. It also offers comfortable cruising with a cushioned v-berth for overnight or weekend trips. The Moore 24 is easy to handle and one of the smoothest sails. Experienced sailors will appreciate how it sails, and novice sailors will appreciate how easy it is to master.

It's such a gem of a sailboat, it's hard to believe it fits on a trailer.

Which Sailboat is Right for You?

Choosing to buy a trailerable sailboat is a good choice for people who don't want to break the bank or worry about marina fees and docking fees. For people who want to go on the occasional weekend sailing trip or day trip, there is no more affordable option.

To choose the right trailerable sailboat, consider what kind of sailing you want to do. A day sailor offers you a smaller boat that's easy to tow and that's more affordable. These boats are great for training kids to sail or learning how to sail yourself.

But, likely, you'll eventually want to graduate to a slightly more capable sailboat. That's because a trailerable cruising sailboat gives more of a traditional sailing experience, including overnight trips and more seaworthiness.

Thankfully, sailboats are easy to find used and cheaper than brand new. Trailer sailors especially are easy to come by and get a good deal on. Whether you're just starting out or just looking for some fun on the weekends, finding the right trailerable sailboat under 30 feet is a breeze.

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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.

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