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10 Sailboats Under 50 Grand

• By Dan Spurr
• Updated: April 4, 2018

My wife used to subscribe to a magazine titled Budget Traveler, which features low-cost vacations and tips like turning your sport coat inside out to prevent wrinkles in the suitcase. I didn’t care for the name because it implied its readers were cheapskates. I know what I can afford and will be the judge of that. Would you subscribe to a magazine called Budget Sailor?I didn’t think so. You also know what you can afford. Not all of us earn six figures and can purchase boats that cost as much. As an interesting exercise, we decided to see what cruising boats one can buy for less than $50,000. Turns out, quite a few. I ought to know; I’ve never bought one costing more. Just a few years ago I set out to buy an older sailboat with just that budget — I mean max price.For this survey, the hundreds of choices were narrowed to a mere 10 affordable sailboats — no easy task. Our criteria: cruising priorities such as tankage, stowage, manageable rig, tracking, etc.; at least average or above-average quality of construction; enduring design; and resale value. Many good boats ended up on the cutting-room floor. And I will admit to my prejudices. For what it’s worth, here’s my list.

Boats built in the 1960s are getting long in the tooth, but if they’ve been maintained well, they are still serviceable. And many Bristol 40s date to later years.

Designed by Ted Hood and built by Clint Pearson after he and cousin Everett sold Pearson Yachts, early Bristols have many similarities in design and construction to early Pearsons. The dominant design rule then was the CCA (Cruising Club of America), which favored short waterlines (long overhangs) and modest beam. The rule-beating idea was that when heeled, the waterline lengthened, increasing speed. A narrow boat has less form stability than a beamier hull, but is less likely to remain upside down in a capsize. A long keel with attached rudder was the accepted underwater configuration for stability and tracking.

Construction is standard for the time: mat-and-woven roving. Over time, leaky portlights and hull/deck joints became commonplace, but they can be fixed by a handy owner.A Bristol 40 won the 1983 Marion-Bermuda Race that featured close-reaching in moderate winds, which shows it’s capable of a decent day’s run. Performance also depends on rig — sloop, cutter or yawl — and keel or keel/centerboard configuration.

Early Bristol 40s were fitted with the venerable Atomic 4 gas engine for which parts may still be obtained from Moyer Marine . A Westerbeke diesel was optional; others have been re-powered with a Yanmar diesel.

Narrow beam and short waterline translate to a comparatively small interior, albeit retaining the essential separate cabins, sea berths, closed head and divided galley aft.

Roger Hewson founded Sabre Yachts in South Casco, Maine, and launched his first model, the Sabre 28, in 1970. Whatever his qualifications as a yacht designer, he did a respectable job with the 28. The proportions are correct (beam versus waterline length, cabin height versus topsides, etc.), the deck-stepped rig conservative, the layout standard and construction quality above average. Periodic refinements were made during its 16-year production run, notably in 1976 (Mark II) and 1983 (Mark III), but the basic structure remained the same. Later models gained a few hundred pounds, which might mean the company finally got around to actually weighing a boat off the line. More than 500 were built.

At 28 feet, it’s on the small side for cruising, but of course that depends on one’s ambitions. A good indication of hull volume is the displacement/length ratio (D/L), which for this Sabre is a moderate 278, meaning decent stowage and, combined with an average sail area/displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.6, decent performance under sail. Not exciting, but no surprises either. This is an easily handled boat despite the foretriangle being somewhat larger than the mainsail.

Some potential buyers might be skeptical of the swept-back externally ballasted keel, which at the time was thought to be more efficient than a vertical appendage. I’m sure there are Sabre 28 owners who can tell how it takes the ground and if it’ll sit upright on its keel (it depends on the center of gravity, which is not shown in the drawings).

Construction is standard hand-layup mat and woven rovings. Glass finish work is very good, and there’s a lot of teak below. Through-hulls have bronze seacocks. Early boats had Atomic 4 gas auxiliaries, and later models small Volvo or Westerbeke diesel engines.

Cape Dory 30

Andy Vavolotis founded Cape Dory Yachts in 1962 with a couple of dinghies. He commissioned Carl Alberg, a Swedish-born U.S. Coast Guard naval architect, to design most of his subsequent larger yachts, including the Cape Dory 30, introduced in 1976.

This is a small 30-footer, owing to its relatively narrow beam and short waterline; the lovely, long overhangs take space from below. Vavolotis once told me that with every new model he begged Alberg to add a few inches of beam. Alberg would give him an inch or two and then say, “If you want more, find another designer. I don’t think it’s right.” That went for fin keels and spade rudders too.

Yes, it’s the full keel with attached rudder and attendant advantages (stable tracking, safety in grounding and collisions with underwater objects) that recommend the design for cruising. The downside? Increased wetted surface area translates to slower speeds, and the fat keel won’t point as high as a foil. But it’s about the journey, not speed, right? The original 30 was designed as a ketch; later renditions offered cutter and sloop rigs.

The other reason folks love Cape Dorys is robust construction. Nothing fancy: solid single-skin hull, balsa-cored deck (Aren’t they all? Well, no.), heavy bronze hardware from Vavolotis’ Spartan Marine foundry and generous exterior teak that once upon a time signified a classy yacht. Hard to believe, but true.

The Cape Dory 30 is not without a few shortcomings. The hull/deck joint is not continuously through-bolted, and some deck hardware does not have backing plates. If you’re set on a Cape Dory, I’d look for the Cape Dory MK11 updated by Clive Dent, or the 33 or 36. The latter generally sells for more than $50,000, but not by much, and it’s a roomier, more powerful design.

Island Packet 31

Boatbuilder and naval architect Bob Johnson shares a distinction with Cape Dory’s Andy Vavolotis as being two of the only company bosses to have offered traditional full-keel cruising boats in small sizes.

Island Packet is located in Florida, and the designs are geared for those waters, meaning shallow. To compensate for shoal draft (a 4-foot keel and 3-foot keel/centerboard were offered), the 31 has a wide beam of 11 feet 6 inches, which gives it good form stability (but not if it capsizes). Boats with wide beam and shallow draft are more likely to achieve inverse stability than narrow boats with deep keels. Ballast of iron ingots set in concrete doesn’t help. This hull form isn’t great upwind. That said, the 31 does not heel quickly and is ideally suited to Florida and Bahamas cruising grounds.

Construction is generally good. The hull is solid glass (no core), and the deck is an exception to the usual end-grain balsa core; a mixture of polyester resin and microballoons called PolyCore forms a chemical bond between the two skins of the “sandwich,” eliminating the possibility of rot and delamination. Like many builders of series-produced boats, Island Packet incorporated a large molded liner or pan that forms the cabin sole, berth flats, galley and other “furniture” features. It saves labor costs but can cause condensation, increase noise and vibration compared to plywood, and make access to parts of the hull potentially difficult. What it does do is discourage radical customizing, which may be a good thing, given the weird stuff some guys cobble together (think a Barcalounger in place of a saloon settee).

It’s too bad more of these able cruisers haven’t migrated farther from their origin on the West Coast. While rather plainly finished, construction is solid and the pilothouse with inside steering is unusual. The sweeping sheer, flush cambered deck and low-profile pilothouse make what could be an ungainly profile actually quite handsome.

As with so many models produced over a decade and longer, changes were made to the Gulf 32 over its 400-unit run, in part because it was built by two different companies: Gulf Marine Products and Capital Yachts. For example, the drawings show an offset double berth forward, while others were delivered with the more conventional V-berth. While the interior features a lot of warm wood finishes, including bulkheads, the large interior liner is startlingly evident in places such as the forward cabin. Noteworthy is the sail area/displacement ratio of 11.6 and displacement/length ratio of 563. These are motorsailer numbers.

Prospective buyers should carefully check the cored side decks for delamination; this is a good time to state unequivocally that a boat with extensive deck delamination is probably not worth repairing. The cost to have a yard perform the repairs is very likely more than the boat is worth. A competent DIY repair is difficult; drilling numerous holes in the top skin and injecting epoxy over a large area is unlikely to do the job. The radical alternative is to remove the inner skin and core and then replace the core and skin, all while working upside down. I know of a person who tried this, using spring-loaded curtain rods to hold backing panels in place — they don’t call him “Resin-head” for nothing.

Islander 36

Once upon a time in Costa Mesa, California, the mecca of early fiberglass boatbuilding, Islander Yachts was a worthy competitor of Columbia and Cal. Australian designer Alan Gurney drew this fast, International Offshore Rule-influenced hull with pinched ends, fin keel and skeg-mounted rudder. A word about skegs: It’s widely believed that they protect the rudder, but the degree to which they succeed depends on the internal structure of the skeg. If it’s simply a piece of molded glass tabbed to the hull, it will likely tear away on impact. If, however, it has, say, a metal backbone well connected to the hull, that’s stronger. In either case, a skeg also is a simple means to provide a lower bearing for the rudder, add some lateral surface for tracking and reduce bending moment. The IOR hull type goes upwind well, but can be squirrelly off the wind, especially with a spinnaker. Rig dimensions varied over the years.

Construction is conventional: solid fiberglass hull but plywood in the deck, as opposed to the more common end-grain balsa wood. It’s heavier and more prone to rot. Different engines were offered. Tankage for fuel and water is on the small side, so consider adding a bladder tank for longer periods aboard.

With the Islander 36, naval architect Robert Perry credits interior designer Joe Artese with revolutionizing sailboat accommodations — no longer a “boy’s cabin in the woods.” Artese took advantage of the boat’s wide beam to increase sole area; drew a wide, low companionway; designed a foldaway table; and specified contemporary fabrics. Somewhere close to 1,000 were sold.

Endeavour 37

The design of this boat is a great example of the ingenuity and craftiness of the fiberglass boatbuilding industry. Endeavour founders Rob Valdez and John Brooks, both of whom had worked for Vince Lazzara at Gulfstar, got started when Ted Irwin gave them the molds for the Irwin 32. The Endeavour 32 sold well, so in looking for their next model, they found the derelict mold of the Creekmore 34 on the Miami River, cut it in half, added 3 feet and voilà! The Endeavour 37!

And there is a sort of Frankenstein look to the boat. Most were sold as sloops, though a ketch rig was offered. It’s a heavy, slow boat, but comfortable and solidly built, with single-skin hull and plywood interior components (no fiberglass pan). Workmanship is generally quite good. If a previous owner hasn’t switched the gate valves on through-hulls to seacocks, add it to your work list. Ballast is internal. The standard engine was the workhorse Perkins 4-108 diesel.

Two interior plans were offered: the A layout, with convertible dinette forward and two aft cabins, and the B layout, with V-berth forward and a single aft cabin. Having slept in one of them I can say that they are not easy to get in and out of. Better to consider them larger-than-usual quarter berths.

Upwind sailing performance is poor — it doesn’t point well — making you appreciate the strong diesel auxiliary. Motion is comfortable; like the Gulf 32, the D/L and SA/D are motorsailer numbers.

Designer Robert Perry is proud to tell fans that during George Day’s circumnavigation in the 1990s, the former Cruising World editor said he saw more double-ended Tayana 37s “out there” than any other model. It’s no wonder: some 650 were built, and it is indeed a strong, well-designed cruiser.

The first boats produced in Taiwan were called the CT 37, changing to Tayana 37 around 1979; Perry says they are the same. Early Taiwan yards were never into racing yachts, but rather heavy, low-tech cruising boats. The Tayana 37 has a solid fiberglass hull and balsa-cored deck. The potentially leaky hull/deck joint is a hollow box section that forms the bulwark.

As with nearly every model produced over a long period of time, there were variations in accommodations, rig, deck and more (many were never officially documented in literature, so don’t be surprised if what you see in brochures is not what you behold in real life). Builder Ta Yang offered free or inexpensive customizations of the 37.

While Perry specified the 90-gallon (341-liter) fuel tank to be located amidships, early boats placed them under the V-berth, which, combined with heavy ground tackle, can trim the boat down by the bow.

The high-aspect-ratio rig, aided by a bowsprit to increase foretriangle area, gives the boat plenty of power. It was offered as a ketch or cutter, and most owners opted for the latter.

As with most boats from Taiwan, the interior is richly executed in teak, built up in plywood. Much of the hardware are knockoffs of U.S. and European products, and of varying quality. All in all, the Tayana 37 is a well-built world cruiser.

Tartan Marine has built three 37-footers over the years, the first in 1965 designed by Ted Hood; the 3700 designed by in-house designer and then general manager Tim Jackett; and the most numerous, the Tartan 37 designed by Sparkman & Stephens, of which nearly 500 units were sold. It’s a handsome boat with perfect proportions. Somewhat influenced by the IOR, the ends are narrow and the transom is small and V-shaped. That’s about all that hasn’t withstood the test of time.

Construction quality is excellent: balsa-cored hull and deck, teak trim and teak-veneer plywood, external lead ballast. The bulkheads are tabbed to the deck, which is worthy of comment. Boats with molded fiberglass headliners cannot have the bulkheads tabbed (several layers of fiberglass tape or strips that overlap the deck and bulkhead). Instead, there are usually grooves molded into the headliner into which the bulkheads fit and are then variously bolted or glued — or not. This is considered less desirable than tabbing, which locks in the entire structure and eliminates the possibility of slight movement or working of those with molded fiberglass liners.

Most 37s were delivered with the keel/centerboard option; the deep keel performs better but may limit where you can go. Performance Handicap Racing Fleets around the country rate it at 132 to 144; for comparison, a J/30 rates 144, as does the Islander 36 described above. So, the Tartan sails fast and handles well, leaning more toward a club racer/cruiser than all-out cruising.

C&C Landfall 38

Hull design and construction for coastal cruising may certainly favor higher performance models, and few companies knew the recipe better than C&C Yachts. In many ways, C&Cs exemplify the racer/cruiser genre. The few Landfall models, including the 38 here, tipped the scales more toward cruising, while retaining excellent sailhandling and speed.

A few years into production, 1,700 pounds were added, but performance is still sparkling, and similar to the original 38. The fin keel has a flat bottom that can be considered a cruising fin for its moderate surface area and ability to sit on the bottom. As for the spade rudder and the criticism it takes for vulnerability, note that circumnavigator and boatbuilder Steve Dashew says it gives superior control hove-to in a gale. Something to think about.

C&C was a pioneer in composite construction, that is, end-grain balsa coring in the hull and deck to increase stiffness and reduce weight. Other notable features: through-bolted deck hardware with backing plates, bronze seacocks and, in the 38, a keel-stepped mast that doesn’t sit corroding in bilge water. Yanmar diesels were standard.

Albeit modified from the IOR-influenced C&C 38, the Landfall 38 still has a large foretriangle; a 150 percent genoa measures 580 square feet, which can be a handful for a couple. Big self-tailing winches will help when trimming the beast.

The interior, elegantly finished in teak, is somewhat unusual; like the Endeavour 37, it incorporates a double-berth aft cabin, but think of it more as a wide quarter berth.

Compared to heavy full-keel designs, the Landfall 38 will point higher, reducing the number of tacks between points A and B, which, combined with greater boat speed, means getting to port faster.

• More: bristol , cape dory , classic plastic , Endeavor , Gulf , Island Packet , islander , sabre , Sailboats , tartan , tayana
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23 Most Affordable Entry-Level Boat Models

Our Boat Loan Calculator makes it easy to figure out just how much boat you can afford, and our Boat Finder will help you narrow the field to a particular type of boat. But it can be much more difficult to identify the specific models that fit both your budget and your desires.

The price range for boats is huge, of course, but average middle-class Americans looking to find their new dream-boat will each have their own budget, and their own definition of just what “affordable” means. That may mean looking for a boat that costs about as much as a new car, taking the family on a series of vacations, or putting in an in-ground pool.

Fortunately, there is indeed a boat for every budget. Here are some of the most affordable starter boats to keep in mind when you begin dreaming, listed in order of boat type from A to Z.

1. All-Purpose Fishing Boats: Lund 1650 Angler SS

In this category there are countless options, and luckily, many all-purpose fishing boats are relatively low cost because their focus on fishing means they aren’t loaded up with excessive amenities. While that simplicity may limit the boat’s appeal to only anglers, it also helps manufacturers keep pricing down—way down. In fact, in the smaller size ranges it’s possible to find an all-purpose fishing boat that can easily hold a family of four and fits in the garage, yet is priced in the $10,000 to $20,000 range.

Take the Lund 1650 Angler SS , for example. It’s rated for up to five people, has a 40 HP outboard, a trailer, a livewell, and a driver’s side console, and is an ideal platform for all kinds of freshwater fishing and trips on relatively protected saltwater bays. Yet listing at just $15,547, this package can be financed with payments under $150 a month.  Visit  Lund Boats  to learn more.

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2. Aluminum Fishing Boats: Tracker Topper 1542

Aluminum boats are like the ATVs of the boating world. They’re rugged, versatile, compact, easy to transport, and easy to afford. They’re also an excellent choice for people who have light-duty tow vehicles, thanks to their relatively light weight. True, they don’t usually have many luxury features nor integrated entertainment devices, but you’ll be so busy reeling in fish you’ll never notice in the first place. One sub-category of aluminum fishing boat with particularly wide appeal is the Jon boat , since it’s among the most affordable options on the water.

In fact, some smaller utilitarian models intended for protected waterways, like the Tracker Topper 1542 , can be powered with a small outboard or an electric motor and at $1,595 costs less than some high-priced cell phones. For many forms of fishing in protected waterways, a boat like this will more than do the trick. Visit  Tracker Boats  to learn more.

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3. Bass Boats: Ranger RT188P 

While we’ll stipulate that there are some extremely expensive bass boats on the market, there are also plenty of lower-cost bass boats out there that are very competent fishing machines. They may not have the bling of models that are triple the cost, but boats like the Ranger RT188P have it where it counts: in the bass fishing department. This boat-motor-trailer package offers 115 horses, a fishfinder, a bow-mount trolling motor, multiple rodboxes and livewells, onboard tackle stowage, and an onboard battery charger. Even with all these big-ticket goodies included, base price is just $27,095. Oh, and did we mention that it looks great, too? Visit  Ranger Boats  to learn more.

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4. Bay Boats/Flats Boats: Mako 18 LTS

Saltwater fishing is popular just about anywhere there’s a coastline, and anglers who ply bays, inshore waters, and back-country flats love their bay boats and flats boats . If you’ve been looking at offerings in this genre you’ve probably noticed there’s a very wide range of pricing, which is often related to the size of the boat. But an 18-footer like the Mako 18 LTS can still be had for well under the $30,000 mark. And note that although it’s relatively small and inexpensive, this boat can carry five passengers and has plenty of features ranging from flush-mount vertical rodholders, to an 18-gallon livewell, to cockpit courtesy lighting. Visit MAKO to learn more.

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5. Bowriders: Regal 1900 ES

As one of the most versatile, do-everything designs around, bowriders attract a lot of first-time boat-buyers. That means there’s a long list of boatbuilders who make bowriders, and they’re available in a huge range of shapes and sizes. You’ll want to do lots of comparison shopping before deciding which specific make or model is ideal for your needs, but if your budget comes in at $30,000 or under, one you’ll surely want to look at is the Regal 1900 ES . It can hold the entire family plus some friends (maximum capacity is nine people) and can be used for everything from watersports to day cruising . Visit  Regal Boats  to learn more.

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6. Cabin Cruisers: Jeanneau NC 795

Cabin cruisers naturally tend to be larger and more expensive than many other types of boats, but that doesn’t mean they’re out of reach for people who considers overnight cruising the ultimate family adventure. In fact, consider all the expenses you’d incur if you paid for all the gear, vehicles, lodging, and supplies to go on a trip to some exciting new place every weekend, all summer long. Then visit our Boat Loan Calculator and plug in the cost of a relatively affordable cabin cruiser, like the $80,750 Jeanneau NC 795 . You might be surprised to learn that you could actually do more for the dollar, by buying the boat. Visit  Jeanneau  to learn more.

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7. Center Consoles: Robalo R160

Traditionally most people have thought of center consoles purely as fishing boats, but in recent years more and more people have discovered that the center console design is also great for any number of boating activities.

Consider a boat like the Robalo R160 , for example, which starts at an uber-affordable $23,295 and comes ready to fish hard, trailers easily, and can pull the kids around on water-toys when the fish stop biting. You want a serious but affordable fishing machine? Then there’s a good chance a center console will fit the bill—but don’t think for a second that you won’t find countless other ways to enjoy family boating, as well. Visit  Robalo Boats  to learn more.

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8. Cuddy Cabins: Rinker 22MTX

If you like the idea of having a boat with a cabin and spending nights or weekends aboard is an option you desire—but spending big bucks on a yacht is not—a cuddy cabin will likely prove ideal. Cuddies have all the basics you need like a berth to sleep on, basic restroom facilities, and sometimes even a compact galley (kitchen), but they’re still small and simple enough to keep pricing down at reasonable levels. Just what’s “reasonable”?

While cabin boats do tend to cost a bit more than open models, some like the Rinker 22MTX will cost less than many nice cars (sticker price is $47,380). Yet boats like this come fully-equipped with everything you need for memory-making mini-vacations. Visit Rinker Boats  to learn more.

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9. Deck Boats: Bayliner Element Series

If you could figure out the cost-per-smile factor of any recreational vehicle in the world it would be seriously tough to beat a deck boat . These open, spacious boats are great for just about any waterborne activity and thanks to their simplicity they’re shockingly affordable. The Bayliner Element series is a perfect example. A beefy 21-footer with a 115 HP outboard, a trailer, and room for a crowd of 10 people lists for under $28,000. The 18-foot version barely breaks the $20,000 mark, and the 16-footer starts as low as $15,299—less than the cost of many new motorcycles, which aren’t exactly the ideal vehicles for family entertainment. Visit Bayliner to learn more.

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10. Dinghies: Walker Bay 10

Many people get dinghies to go with a larger boat, but they can provide lots of fun all on their own. In fact, for a couple of people who want to go out exploring or fishing in protected waters, a dinghy is one of the most cost-effective ways to get out there.

True, little boats like the Walker Bay 10 don’t have much in the way of amenities; but with the ability to hold three people, add a sail or outboard (up to three HP), and a list price of just $1,279, how can you beat the bang for the buck? Visit  Walker Bay Boats  to learn more.

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11. Fish-and-Ski Boats: Lowe FS 1700

Families who enjoy both fishing and watersports naturally gravitate to this design. Fish-and-ski boats are exactly what they sound like: fishing boats that are designed and equipped to do double duty when they kids enjoy watersports as much as they enjoy hooking walleye.

The Lowe FS 1700 is sure to draw plenty of attention, thanks to its aptitude as both a fishing boat and a watertoy-towing fun-machine. And its price tag is quite low, starting at a mere $20,495 with a 60 HP outboard and a trailer. Visit  Lowe Boats  to learn more.

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12. High Performance Boats: Donzi 16 Classic

When it comes to budget-conscious boat-buying, high performance boats probably don’t top most people’s lists. However, that doesn’t mean you have to spend a million dollars to get a boat that provides adrenaline-inducing thrill rides. Start small with a boat like the Donzi 16 Classic (MSRP: $61,900), which can be equipped with 200- or 250-horsepower, and you’ll soon be zipping across the water at speeds most boats only reach when they’re being trailered down the highway. Visit  Donzi Marine  to learn more.

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13. Inflatables: Sea Eagle 10.6sr

Inflatables are a rather unique class of boats, particularly in that many can be deflated, rolled up, and stored under a couch or in the closet of a studio apartment. So not only are they ideal as tenders and towboats, inflatables can also get urban dwellers into the boating game. And they can do so quite inexpensively.

Match up a boat like the Sea Eagle 14sr ($2,499) with a portable outboard, and you young urban dwellers have a boat capable of carrying seven people that takes just 25 minutes to inflate—and you could even add on things like swivel seats, a Bimini top, and fishing rod holders. Visit  Sea Eagle Boats  to learn more.

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14. Jet Boats: Scarab 165 G

Jet boats are quite popular among first-time boat-buyers, and other than the jet drive and some rather sporty and spectacular handling characteristics, most are more or less like other runabouts. They tend to share pricing characteristics, too, and one that’s eminently affordable is the Scarab 165 G . Even with its small $24,433 MSRP it delivers big on sporty fun, and has a surprisingly wide range of features like aft swim platform loungers, a ski-tow eye, and USB charging ports. Visit  Scarab Boats  to learn more.

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15. Motor Yachts/Power Cruisers: Sea Ray Sundancer 350 Coupe

No one’s going to argue that motor yachts and power cruisers are low-cost; but consider how much you have would to pay for a chic two-bedroom waterfront home with a full kitchen, living room, and bathroom, plus a deck with a grill, outdoor stereo, and retracting sunshade. Oh, and BTW, you can park this bungalow in any waterfront village you’d like, whenever you’d like. What do you think, a half a million dollars sounds about right?

For significantly less you can get boats like the Sea Ray Sundancer 350 Coupe , which not only have all of the above but can also hit speeds in the 40-mph range and feature perks like outdoor cockpit air-conditioning, a bow lounger, and a sunroof over the helm. Visit  Sea Ray Boats  to learn more.

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16. Multi-Hull Power Boats: World Cat 230CC

Ask a crowd of experienced boaters about multi-hull power boats , or "power cats" as they’re often called, and you may hear that they generally cost more than regular monohull powerboats . But when you compare different boats by their capabilities and useable space, that’s not always the case.

Consider a World Cat 230CC , for example. Yes, it has a sticker price pushing close to $100,000, which sounds like a lot for a 23-foot boat. But powercats like this have more interior volume because they’re wider in the bow—in fact, the 230CC has seating for a huge crew of 10. Plus, the smooth twin-hull ride can take on bigger seas than most monohulls in this class, and the boat has twin engines. So when you add capability and space into the equation this boat should really be compared to much larger monohulls. And for the value you get it’s actually far more affordable than it seems upon first glance. Visit  World Cat  to learn more.

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17. Personal Watercraft (PWC): Yamaha WaveRunner EX Series

Looking for a cheap thrill? You just found it. Few boats are as affordable as personal watercraft , and few can claim to be more fun. Grin-inducing wave-hops, G-force turns, and a face full of spray are just a few of the experiences that await you, and we dare you to try to go two minutes on a personal watercraft without smiling. Good luck, because it isn’t going to happen.

And, talk about affordable: the Yamaha Waverunner EX series lists at a mere $6,899 to start—less than a couple might lay out for a week-long trip to Europe. Yet it can carry up to three people and blasts off with a 1049-cc Yamaha TR-1 jet engine. Can you say “WOOHOO”? Visit  Yamaha WaterCraft  to learn more.

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18. Pontoon Boats: Godfrey Sweetwater 1886 C

One of the great things about pontoon boats is that most models are highly customizable, and you can get them just as simple and inexpensive or as gussied-up as you please. While that may mean foregoing the snazzy wine-chiller or the huge outboard engine to get a more affordable price, it certainly doesn’t mean foregoing the family fun a pontoon boat will provide.

Consider the Godfrey Sweetwater 1886 C , which seats 10 comfortable and comes with features like a 40 HP outboard, gobs of seating, a cocktail table, and a swim ladder. MSRP is just over $26,000, and you can add in a slew of features like a Bimini top, a stereo system, a pop-up changing room, and even a chilled cupholder at the helm, without breaking through the $30,000 barrier. Visit  Godfrey Pontoons  to learn more.

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19. Sailboats: Beneteau First 14

When it comes to economics, sailboats hold an advantage over powerboats since they don’t need the power provided by those big motors. You may be attracted to a small, simple boat that can be taken out single-handed or by a handful of people, like the $10,800 Beneteau First 14 . Or you may be more interested in a model that has a cabin and a berth, like the First 18 ($28,800). In any case, not only are boats like these eminently affordable, they also enjoy lower operational expenses than powerboats. You’ll love that new boat even more as you sail right past the fuel dock. Visit  Beneteau  to learn more.

Explore Sailboat Brands

20. Ski Boats/Wake Boats: Four Winns HD 200 Surf

Towed watersports have exploded with popularity in the past decade, and it’s no wonder why. Whether you’re surfing the wakes or practicing slalom skiing, watersports make for fast-paced and exciting athletic action. If you’ve shopped for dedicated watersports boats , however, you may have noticed that they can be on the expensive side. That doesn’t necessarily have to be the case. New tech in drive units and boat designs has made it possible for many manufacturers to offer lower cost boats that work great for sports like surfing and water skiing.

The Four Winns HD 200 Surf is a great example, since it has everything needed in a serious watersports boat (like tow points, wake tabs, and ballast tanks), but it doesn’t edge too much above the $50,000 mark. Visit  Four Winns  to learn more.

Explore Ski/Wake Boat Brands

21. Sportfishing Yachts: Boston Whaler 345 Conquest

No, we’re not going to try to convince anyone that a sportfishing yacht is “inexpensive.” And affordability is entirely in the eye of the beholder. But consider this: if you chartered an offshore sportfishing yacht for a day of fishing, in most parts of the nation you’d pay somewhere between $1,500 and $2,500 per day. Once you spend that money it’s gone. But if you purchased a sportfishing yacht that retains a good deal of its value over time, like the Boston Whaler 345 Conquest (which goes for a little over a half-million dollars), you’ll have the asset of the boat itself for years to come. And on top of that you’ll have the unrestricted ability to go fishing or cruising in luxury whenever the mood strikes. Visit  Boston Whaler  to learn more.

Explore Sportfishing Yacht Brands

22. Trawlers: Ranger Tugs R-23

Since most people think of trawlers as large and luxurious, you may find it a bit surprising to discover that there plenty of smaller, more affordable trawlers to consider, too. True, you won’t be crossing the Atlantic on a 23-footer like the Ranger Tugs R-23 . This little $115,000 pocket-yacht does, however, have sleeping space for a family of four, complete food-prep facilities, a private head compartment (that’s nautical-speak for bathroom), and an open cockpit you can use for everything from tanning to fishing. Visit  Ranger Tugs  to learn more .

Explore Trawler Brands

23. Walkarounds: Striper 200 Walkaround OB

Many people, especially parents with small kids, feel a cabin is a must-have whether they plan to go fishing, day cruising or spend a night or two camping aboard. And even the smallest of the walkarounds out there provide you with a place to sleep, protection from the weather, and somewhere to relieve yourself. Boats like the Striper 200 Walkaround OB check all those boxes. And listing an MSRP of $66,893, it’s certainly easier to afford than a cabin at the lake. Visit  Striper Boats  to learn more.

Explore Walkaround Boat Brands

And don’t forget people, while you could dedicate that boat budget to a car, vacations, or a pool, we think a boat has got all of those things beat—hands-down. Who would rather travel down the road, when open waterways beckon? Why restrict your recreation to short-lived vacations, when going boating is like taking a vacation each and every time you pull off the dock? Doesn’t choosing a pool seem rather limiting, when your boat will provide you with countless places to take the plunge? Find the perfect boat for you, your family, and your budget, and you’ll never regret it.

Read Next: Best Boats for Families

Editor's Note: Pricing is accurate as last date of publish, May 12, 2020. Please contact each boat manufacturers or your local boat dealer directly for the most updated pricing.

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BLUEWATER SAILING YACHTS QUALITY CRUISING SAILBOATS FROM THE WORLD’S TOP BUILDERS.

BLUEWATER CRUISING SAILBOATS FOR SALE

2019 Outbound 56

Specifying and building Outbound 56 BAREFOOT was a labour of love for her owners. They wanted to build the best quality and most practical cruising yacht that they could sail easily, as a couple, and that would carry them and their young children in safety and comfort, even to remote areas. The yacht is a very highly specified and much improved version of the well-known Hylas 56. Even after delivery the owner continued to improve and upgrade the yacht – including changing out the main engine. No cost has been spared to produce this wonderful yacht. With her hydraulic in-mast furling main, hydraulic furler to both of the headstays, electric furling gennaker, electric sheet winches - all controlled at the cockpit – she may be sailed single-handed (and has been). The interior provides a delightful aft “stateroom”, a double cabin forward and a versatile third cabin that may be used as a single or double and serves as a stowage area and workbench.

1988 Sparkman & Stephens Custom 50

The Stephen Custom 50 was conceived by the renowned yacht designers Sparkman & Stephens who have designed and built some of the worlds leading cruising and racing sailboats. They did not miss the mark with this 1988 classy cruiser. This stable yacht is designed and optimized for long term cruising and is a true blue-water sailboat. A solid glass hull and full skeg make Brizo a smooth ride even in rough seaways and give assurance. Built at the Queen Long yard in Taiwan, a precursor to the fabled Hylas yachts, her build quality is unquestioned. The quality craftsmanship and fine joinery is apparent throughout the interior of this well-conceived design. A deck saloon and a three-cabin layout make this yacht perfect for cruising couples or families. If you are seeking a boat that can carry you far and wide with speed, safety, and comfort, Brizo is a must see.

2006 Oyster 56

Renown as one of the world leading sailboat builders, Oyster is the epitome which other boats strive to measure themselves against. Ambrosia a great example of quality, function and form. These deck saloon boats boast bright comfortable interiors, practical sail handling from the helm and rigid construction. A perfect family boat or couples cruiser this boat is optimized for long term cruising in comfort and style.

2014 Bestevaer 66 Custom

A very unique yacht that is ready to sail the world for new adventures. Anabel is a very seaworthy yacht that has been built for unlimited cruising and a unique design which is totally “Custom built”. Only one owner from new. Built in the prestigious KM shipyard in Holland and designed by Dykstra Naval architects, it is made to the specifications of its owner who is a very experienced sailor. All on this yacht is thinking of safety, seaworthiness but not leaving aside the maximum comfort it provides for life onboard. There are no other boats like this on the market this is the reason for its customization.

All Bluewater Cruising Sailboats For Sale

• Little Harbor
• Robert Perry
• Sparkman & Stephens

2020 Outbound 56

2012 Southerly 57 RS

2009 Tartan 5300

2009 Outbound 44

2006 Outbound 46

1999 Marten Custom Bill Tripp 72

1993 Robert Perry Custom 63

1990 Little Harbor 59

1989 Windship 60 Cutter

1989 Little Harbor 54

1988 Little Harbor 46

1983 Mason 53

Featured bluewater sailboat brands.

HYLAS COLLECTION

The premier collection of pre-owned Hylas bluewater sailing yachts that are currently available on the market. Collection Yacht brokers have sold more Hylas sailboats in the last decade than all other yacht brokerages combined.

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OYSTER COLLECTION

Oyster is one of the world’s top bluewater cruising sailboat brands. Built in the UK, Oysters are finely crafted seaworthy yachts that capable of ocean passages and circumnavigation, with their most popular models being in the 50-70ft range. The Oyster Collection features current Oyster yachts for sale as well as videos, reviews, and guides.

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PASSPORT COLLECTION

Built to meet the style and taste of the American sailing market, Passport yachts are admired worldwide for their hand-crafted quality, proven passage making abilities, and well-thought out designs. While the award winning Passport 545 is perhaps the most popular model, the entire line is built to the same standards and respected for its sailing performance, fine interior woodwork, and beautiful detailing inside and out.

View Passport Collection

Bluewater Cruising Sailboat Reviews, Guides, & News

Passport 545 Aft Cockpit Walkthrough Video

Passport yachts gives us a closer look at the interior and exterior of the Passport 545 Aft Cockpit sailboat.

Promo Video of the All New Oyster 565

A great promo video that Oyster has released highlighting features of the all new Oyster 565.

Oyster 725 Review

The 725 was built, as many Oysters are, to sail anywhere her owners wish to go. She is the first boat in the range to have exceptional and dedicated crew quarters.

Oyster 625 Review

The Oyster 625 is a powerful sailboat that can be handled by an experienced couple but also has ample space for a captain and crew if that is the desired cruising mode.

OYSTER YACHT SALES EXPERTS

Collection Yachts, based in the yachting capital of the world, Fort Lauderdale, is proud to represent buyers and sellers of Oyster Yachts. Traveling with clients across the globe to find the best Oyster Yacht has resulted in long lasting relationships and many sales. Like Oyster, Collection Yachts provides top quality service for as long as a client owns their Oyster.

Previously Sold Models

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10 Best Small Sailboats (Under 20 Feet)

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

Compact, easy to trailer, simple to rig, easy to maintain and manage, and affordable, the best small boats all have one thing in common: they offer loads of fun while out there on the water.

So whether you're on a budget or just looking for something that can offer ultimate daytime rides without compromising on safety, aesthetic sensibilities, alternate propulsion, and speed, the best small sailboats under 20 feet should be the only way to go.

Let's be brutally honest here; not everyone needs a 30-foot sailboat to go sailing. They come with lots of features such as electronics, entertainment, refrigeration, bunks, a galley, and even a head. But do you really need all these features to go sailing? We don't think so.

All you need to go sailing is a hull, a mast, rudder, and, of course, a sail. And whether you refer to them as daysailers, trailerable sailboats , a weekender sailboat, or pocket cruisers, there's no better way to enjoy the thrills of coastal sailing than on small sailboats.

There are a wide range of small boats measuring less than 20 feet available in the market. These are hot products in the market given that they offer immense thrills out on the sea without the commitment required to cruise on a 30-footer. A small sailboat will not only give you the feel of every breeze but will also give you the chance to instantly sense every change in trim.

In this article, we'll highlight 10 best small sailboats under 20 feet . Most models in this list are time-tested, easy to rig, simple to sail, extremely fun, and perfect either for solo sailing or for sailing with friends and family. So if you've been looking for a list of some of the best small sailboats , you've come to the right place.

So without further ado, let's roll on.

Table of contents

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

The Marlow-Hunter 15 is not only easy to own since it's one of the most affordable small sailboats but also lots of fun to sail. This is a safe and versatile sailboat for everyone. Whether you're sailing with your family or as a greenhorn, you'll love the Hunter 15 thanks to its raised boom, high freeboard, and sturdy FRP construction.

With high sides, a comfortable wide beam, a contoured self-bailing cockpit, and fiberglass construction, the Hunter 15 is certainly designed with the novice sailor in mind. This is why you can do a lot with this boat without falling out, breaking it, or capsizing. Its contoured self-baiting cockpit will enable you to find a fast exit while its wide beam will keep it steady and stable no matter what jibes or weight shifts happen along the way.

This is a small sailboat that can hold up to four people. It's designed to give you a confident feeling and peace of mind even when sailing with kids. It's easy to trailer, easy to rig, and easy to launch. With a price tag of about $10k, the Hunter 15 is a fun, affordable, and versatile boat that is perfect for both seasoned sailors and novices. It's a low-maintenance sailboat that can be great for teaching kids a thing or two about sailing.

Catalina 16.5

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

Catalina Yachts are synonymous with bigger boats but they have some great and smaller boats too such as Catalina 16.5. This is one of the best small sailboats that are ideal for family outings given that it has a big and roomy cockpit, as well as a large storage locker. Designed with a hand-laminated fiberglass sloop, the Catalina 16.5 is versatile and is available in two designs: the centerboard model and the keel model.

The centerboard model is designed with a powerful sailplane that remains balanced as a result of the fiberglass centerboard, the stable hull form, and the rudder. It also comes with a tiller extension, adjustable hiking straps, and adjustable overhaul. It's important to note that these are standard equipment in the two models.

As far as the keel model is concerned, this is designed with a high aspect keel as the cast lead and is attached with stainless steel keel bolts, which makes this model perfect for mooring or docking whenever it's not in use. In essence, the centerboard model is perfect if you'll store it in a trailer while the keel model can remain at the dock.

All in all, the Catalina 16.5 is one of the best small sailboats that you can get your hands on for as low as $10,000. This is certainly a great example of exactly what a daysailer should be.

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

There's no list of small, trailerable, and fun sailboats that can be complete without the inclusion of the classic Hobie 16. This is a durable design that has been around and diligently graced various waters across the globe since its debut way back in 1969 in Southern California. In addition to being durable, the Hobie 16 is trailerable, great for speed, weighs only 320 pounds, great for four people, and more importantly, offers absolute fun.

With a remarkable figure of over 100,000 launched since its debut, it's easy to see that the Hobie 16 is highly popular. Part of this popularity comes from its asymmetric fiberglass-and-foam sandwiched hulls that include kick-up rudders. This is a great feature that allows it to sail up to the beach.

For about $12,000, the Hobie 16 will provide you with endless fun throughout the summer. It's equipped with a spinnaker, trailer, and douse kit. This is a high-speed sailboat that has a large trampoline to offer lots of space not just for your feet but also to hand off the double trapezes.

Montgomery 17

{{boat-info="/boats/montgomery-17"}}

Popularly known as the M-17, The Montgomery 17 was designed by Lyle C. Hess in conjunction with Jerry Montgomery in Ontario, California for Montgomery Boats. Designed either with keel or centerboard models, the M-17 is more stable than most boats of her size. This boat is small enough to be trailered but also capable of doing moderate offshore passages.

This small sailboat is designed with a masthead and toe rail that can fit most foresails. It also has enough space for two thanks to its cuddly cabin, which offers a sitting headroom, a portable toilet, a pair of bunks, a DC power, and optional shore, and a proper amount of storage. That's not all; you can easily raise the deck-stepped mast using a four-part tackle.

In terms of performance, the M-17 is one of the giant-killers out there. This is a small sailboat that will excel in the extremes and make its way past larger boats such as the Catalina 22. It glides along beautifully and is a dog in light air, though it won't sail against a 25-knot wind, which can be frustrating. Other than that, the Montgomery 17 is a great small sailboat that can be yours for about $14,000.

Norseboat 17.5

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

As a versatile daysailer, Norseboat 17.5 follows a simple concept of seaworthiness and high-performance. This small sailboat perfectly combines both contemporary construction and traditional aesthetics. Imagine a sailboat that calls itself the "Swiss Army Knife of Boats!" Well, this is a boat that can sail and row equally well.

Whether you're stepping down from a larger cruiser or stepping up from a sea kayak, the unique Norseboat 17.5 is balanced, attractive, and salty. It has curvaceous wishbone gaff, it is saucy, and has a stubby bow-sprit that makes it attractive to the eyes. In addition to her beauty, the Norseboat 17.5 offers an energy-pinching challenge, is self-sufficient, and offers more than what you're used to.

This is a small, lightweight, low-maintenance sailboat that offers a ticket to both sailing and rowing adventures all at the same time. At about 400 pounds, it's very portable and highly convenient. Its mainsails may look small but you'll be surprised at how the boat is responsive to it. With a $12,500 price tag, this is a good small sailboat that offers you the versatility to either row or sail.

{{boat-info="/boats/sage-marine-sage-17"}}

If you've been looking for a pocket cruiser that inspires confidence, especially in shoal water, look no further than the Sage 17. Designed by Jerry Montgomery in 2009, the Sage 17 is stable and should heel to 10 degrees while stiffening up. And because you want to feel secure while sailing, stability is an integral feature of the Sage 17.

This is a sailboat that will remain solid and stable no matter which part of the boat you stand on. Its cabin roof and the balsa-cored carbon-fiber deck are so strong that the mast doesn't require any form of compression post. The self-draining cockpit is long enough and capable of sleeping at 6 feet 6 inches.

The Sage 17 may be expensive at $25k but is a true sea warrior that's worth look at. This is a boat that will not only serve you right but will also turn heads at the marina.    

{{boat-info="/boats/laserperformance-laser-sb3"}}

Having been chosen as the overall boat of the year for 2008 by the Sailing World Magazine, the Laser SB3 is one of the coolest boats you'll ever encounter. When sailing upwind, this boat will lock into the groove while its absolute simplicity is legendary. In terms of downwind sailing, having this boat will be a dream come true while it remains incredibly stable even at extraordinary speed.

Since its debut in 2004, the Laser SB3 has surged in terms of popularity thanks to the fact that it's designed to put all the controls at your fingertips. In addition to a lightweight mast, its T- bulb keel can be hauled and launched painlessly. For about $18,000, the Laser SB3 ushers you into the world of sports sailing and what it feels to own and use a sports boat.

{{boat-info="/boats/fareast-18"}}

As a manufacturer, Fareast is a Chinese boat manufacturer that has been around for less than two decades. But even with that, the Fareast 18 remains a very capable cruiser-racer that will take your sailing to the next level. In addition to its good looks, this boat comes with a retractable keel with ballast bulb, a powerful rig, and an enclosed cabin.

Its narrow design with a closed stern may be rare in sailboats of this size, but that's not a problem for the Fareast 18. This design not only emphasizes speed but also makes it a lot easier to maintain this boat. Perfect for about 6 people, this boat punches above its weight. It's, however, designed to be rigged and launched by one person.

This is a relatively affordable boat. It's agile, safe, well-thought-out, well built, and very sporty.

{{boat-info="/boats/chuck-paine-paine-14"}}

If you're in the market looking for a small sailboat that offers contemporary performance with classic beauty, the Paine 14 should be your ideal option. Named after its famous designer, Chuck Paine, this boat is intentionally designed after the classic Herreshoff 12.5 both in terms of dimensions and features.

This is a lightweight design that brings forth modern fin keel and spade rudder, which makes it agile, stable, and faster. The Paine 14 is built using cold-molded wood or west epoxy. It has varnished gunnels and transoms to give it an old-time charm. To make it somehow modern, this boat is designed with a carbon mast and a modern way to attach sails so that it's ready to sail in minutes.

You can rest easy knowing that the Paine 14 will not only serve you well but will turn heads while out there.

{{boat-info="/boats/wd-schock-lido-14"}}

Many sailors will attest that their first sailing outing was in a Lido 14. This is a classic sailboat that has been around for over four decades and still proves to be a perfect match to modern small boats, especially for those still learning the ropes of sailing.

With seating for six people, the Lido 14 can be perfect for solo sailing , single-handed sailing, or if you're planning for shorthanded sailing. While new Lido 14 boats are no longer available, go for a functional used Lido 14 and you'll never regret this decision. It will serve you well and your kids will probably fall in love with sailing if Lido 14 becomes their main vessel during weekends or long summer holidays.

Bottom Line

There you have it; these are some of the best small sailboats you can go for. While there are endless small sailboats in the market, the above-described sailboat will serve you right and make you enjoy the wind.

Choose the perfect sailboat, invest in it, and go out there and have some good fun!

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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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Better Sailing

Best Pocket Cruisers Under 20 Feet

If you are looking for a pocket cruiser to help you learn the ropes and get started sailing, daysail, or for a weekend-long fun sailing trip, then you are in the right place. In this article, we are taking a look at some affordable options to get you started in the sailing game. It doesn’t matter if you are looking for a boat with a cabin or not because we have both options, all under 20 Feet!

Obviously, the best pocket cruiser for me is not necessarily the best one for you. For example, when I am out looking to purchase a boat, I am always looking for something that can accommodate at least 2 people for at least a couple of days. However, you could be looking for a faster daysailers with no cabins because you only want to use it for daysailing. Not to worry, I wrote this article with you in mind as well. 

Beneteau First 20

This is probably my favorite trailable pocket cruiser on the list. It is gorgeous, compact, has a retractable keel, it is fast but can also accommodate a small family for a weekend on the water thanks to its spacious interior. The First 20 has one of those hulls that, despite being very sturdy in windy weather, will allow you to have fun like a child! Unfortunately, however, Beneteau has suspended production on boats under 20 feet to focus on larger sailboats, but you can still find these boats for sale around $25,000 used.

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats to Live On

Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20

This is also a wonderful pocket cruiser that feels like a much larger blue-water sailboat. For her small size and displacement, she handles exceptionally well on the water. She is not only extremely fast for her size, but she is also very seaworthy and has a kind motion, and seasoned sailors will tell you that she has a very good reputation for keeping her crew safe. It is rarely available, but if you look online you will probably find a few for sale throughout the US.

Liteboat XP

This intriguing 20-footer is what you get when someone who has rowed solo across the Atlantic decides to produce a fun pocket cruiser that can either be rowed or sailed. It’s the brainchild of Mathieu Bonnier, while renowned French naval architect Sam Manuard did the design work and North Sails helped develop the simple but efficient rig. Use of carbon keeps total weight down to 145kg, including a 20kg bulb on the bottom of the centerboard – that’s 15% lighter than a Wayfarer dinghy.

Lasers are a great choice for trailerable daysailers suitable for two adults. If you want to experience adrenaline or a cool breeze, or just sailing into nowhere, this 13’10” Laser is the option available in the small boat section. This boat has a fiberglass body that is lightweight and has a powerful sail making it easy to capsize and recover fast. This boat is also raced as an international sailing class and has participated in competitions like Olympic sailing championships to normal club racing.

Almost all the 200,000 boats that have been made over the years were made for fun as the 1969 design only had a single sail, daggerboard, and two-part mast. It also has a kick-up rudder, which is easy to transport, store and launch. These boats are available at less than $5K, and it is also available in different sized sails and rigs along with spare parts. Used boats are also available easily.

>>Also Read: Best Small Sailboats To Sail Around The World

Catalina 16.5 

Catalina 16.5 is the largest sailboat that the brand makes under 20 feet. The Catalina brand is known for its own large cruise boats, but they have small boats too. This boat is a hand-laminated fiberglass sloop, which is one of the most versatile boats, and it has two options, i.e. one with a centerboard (5″) and shoal-draft keel (4’5″). If you require to store a trailer, then buy the centerboard, the lead-keel vessel gives the stability to stay parked at a dock. Like most boats that are built by Catalina, this boat has a huge self-bailing cockpit. It also has a waterproof hatch and a storage space. The standard equipment has a tiller extension and hiking straps. You can get out on the side deck for better visibility forward. The new version of this boat is available at $10,000.

Hobie 16 Catamaran

This is another great design with a great turn of speed and space for four people. The Hobie 16 beach catamaran has sold over 100,000 units since its release in the year 1969. It debuted in Southern California. It is a lightweight boat that weighs only around 320 pounds. This boat has an asymmetric fiberglass sandwich hull that has kick-up rudders. It means that it can reach all the way to the beach. This boat has a sail area of 218 square feet. This boat also has a douse kit, a trailer, spinnaker. As you can see from the photo of this sailing dinghy, it is only suitable for daysailing since it lacks cabins, saloon, etc. This is a fast boat and ideal for some sailing fun, and it costs around $2,000-12,000 depending on the age of the sailboat and whether you buy it new or used.

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats Under 100k

Marlow-Hunter 15

If you need an affordable, low-maintenance, and new knockabout to teach your children sailing, then Marlow-Hunter 15 is the best thing you can use. This boat has high freeboard and fiberglass construction. You can do lots of things in this boat without capsizing, failing, or breaking it. It has a self-bailing cockpit that means when inside water, it can find a quick exit, and the wide beams keeps her steady in the strong breeze or any kind of weight shifts that happened along the ride. This boat allows four people to sail together, and when you are done, you can store it in your garage or your trailer. The best thing about this boat is that it has no wood that requires varnishing, and you can buy this boat at around $10,000.

Bluewater Cygnet 20

The Cygnet 20 is an excellent addition to the trailer sailer and pocket cruiser market that could easily rejuvenate the under 20 feet market section. Having everything that you want in a pocket cruiser: take everywhere, sail anywhere, sail easily, and affordable, the Cygnet has the added benefit of looking adorable as well. With its flat bottom and hand-laid fiberglass hull, it is an easy matter of beaching the boat.

The Cygnet 20 makes an enjoyable weekend sailboat; to this end, while the cockpit is large enough to fit four to six people, it makes less space for down below, but there is still room enough to sleep a crew of four. Also, there are various options to customize the cabin the way you want, but the standard configuration with the V-berth, a portable toilet stored underneath; a single burner portable stove to port with a sink to starboard two long single berths running under the cockpit. Also, the saloon table folds out to seat four on top of the swing keelbox.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best pocket cruiser or daysailer is not an easy task. I hope this list will be helpful to pick your ideal vessel for your sailing experiences. However, keep in mind that this list is not exhaustive and if you find a pocket cruiser that you like and fits your budget you should definitely take it out on the water to give it a spin and see how you like it. On a last note, you can find plenty of pocket cruisers for sale if you look at your local marina, browse websites like BoatersWorld, YachtWorld, Boat24, BoatTrader, Boats.com, Craigslist, and even FaceBook marketplace.

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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The Best Beginner Sailboats for Ocean Cruising (under $25,000)

You have fallen in love with sailboats and can't resist the call any longer. I feel ya. The upfront cost is quite something, right? Both in money and skill level. Well, your dream isn't necessarily that far away. Let me show you a few of the best sailboats capable of crossing vast oceans, boats that are beginner-friendly and that won't cost over $25,000.

So what are the best beginner sailboats for ocean cruising?

Cape Dory 28

Let's have a closer look at these. You want to know more about these to pick the right one for you. Read on!

On this page:

Westsail 28, a beginner boat is easy to handle.

Please don't think that just because a boat is labeled here as a 'beginner-friendly' it means that it is lesser in terms of performance or capabilities. It just means that due to the layout, construction, or overall design it is easier to handle and more forgiving.

A good ballast ratio can be an example of that, making the boat stable. A user-friendly cockpit layout where all the lines are within reach from the helm is another example. These things don't decrease performance, they simply increase handling ease.

An affordable boat doesn't have to be cheap

Similarly, don't think a cheap boat is not seaworthy. Seaworthiness is again more about design rather than anything else.

It also doesn't mean you will get a low-quality boat. Sure it won't be new or large, but as far as build quality goes, no compromises have to be made.

An ocean cruiser is stable and comfortable

Stability is important. Waves get bigger out there, and some coastal cruisers may not be prepared for that.

Storage and long term comfort. An ocean cruiser needs to accommodate you for more than a week, as island hoppers do. That means enough storage and layout such that allows for a long term stay.

The matter of buoyancy calls for attention too - you want to be able to load the boat with all you need for a few weeks' stay and still have it perform well.

We made sure that all the boats mentioned below tick the right bluewater boxes.

Let's get into it, shall we?

The name of the game here is good quality. Which is an incredibly important aspect for a beginner. They say long passages are often more about maintenance than about actual sailing skills. And you want to do as little maintenance as possible.

As far as construction ethics of production boats go, Sabre 28 is hard to beat. All the elements that need to hold something, like cleats, are backed by a solid steel plate here, bolted through, there is no exposed fiberglass, everything is gel coated… it isn't an exaggeration to claim you will not find many production boats of this build quality.

Below the deck, you will find solid six feet of headroom, closed off V berth in the front cabin, and space for (theoretically) four more of your mates.

Now let's see some negatives. Even despite the generous sailing area of this boat, performance is its possible downside. You won't break speed records. This means that your longer passages will require better planning and more supplies. Not a problem per se, but something to keep in mind.

Also, this boat was designed as a coastal cruiser and it shows. Not that it couldn't undertake a proper ocean passage, but purely practically speaking, for instance, its tanks are rather small, as the designers expected frequent refills.

On that note - pleasure cruisers often favor the cockpit space, decreasing the under the dock space. They also don't necessarily try to use the space with the utmost efficiency in mind. And since long crossings will require long stays, you will feel this isn't a huge boat.

But all in all, expect a boat solid on all sides, and jaw-droppingly well built. It will set you back as little as $3,000 and as much as $30,000 on the other side of the spectrum. With a below $25,000 budget, you will have absolutely no issues finding one.

And if you start comparing with similar models and can't help but feel it is a bit pricier per foot, know that this is due to the extraordinary build quality. You will get a lot for your money.

We will talk about the 28 model but if you go two feet up in size to the Cape Dory 30, you will be able to get it for about the same price.

Just as the Sabre above, Cape Dory is solidly built. It is simple, robust, no cut corners, no little luxuries, straight to the point. Which is what you want from a reliable boat, if you don't have much experience.

Another mark up goes for sturdiness stemming from its full keel. As is the case with full keels, they make the boat robust, if you run aground, it isn't such a big deal as you are less likely going to damage the boat, and the propeller is better protected.

Similarly, if the weather gets tricky, full keels are more stable, they track better and thus handle easier, all of which is a big plus for someone who is just learning the ropes.

Below the deck, you will find a V berth, heads, sink, plenty of storage space, and generally as much space as you would expect from a boat this size. It's a looker, genuinely nice place to be at, both outside and inside.

A word of warning that keeps popping up - owners of the older models say the fuel tanks don't age well on this boat. They tend to rust, so be sure to check that out and be ready for a replacement.

There were quite a lot of these models built during its production lifespan, which means there is no shortage of used Dories - something that drives the price down and makes this boat start at around $10 000 on average. The most expensive ones are generally around $30 000, so if you spend the $25 000 on it, you will not be far away from the top of the line.

Long story short, this is a cute little boat that will most definitely have your back and is quite forgiving when under sail - partially to its full keel. It won't house many people, I wouldn't go on it with more than two, if the passage is long, but how big of a crew do you need anyway, right?

We are stretching the limit with this one since the prices start a bit above $20 000 and go easily to $50 000. So with our limit, you will not have an incredible array of options - but it will be enough to get you in the game, and what a game this is!

First of all, it's a full keel, so expect all the benefits listed in the Cape Dory above. Second of all, it's a nice looking boat that has a cozy feeling inside and outside. This is important since it isn't the fastest one. Especially in lower winds, it has been described by some owners as a 'wet snail'.

So go for this one if you are a person in no rush, but one for whom the journey is the destination, as the cliché goes. And as mentioned before, pay attention to the higher amount of supplies you will inevitably need for longer passages.

Once you are on it, prepared to take it slow and comfy, it will warm your heart. The interior is lined with hardwood, pretty little round windows with cast bronze rims, wide hull that has space and comfort in mind, rather than racing.

In other words, it's a pleasure cruiser, but not a coastal one, rather one sturdy enough to circumnavigate the world.

It was born from a genuine market need since it's larger and older sister, Westsail 32, was quite successful but too expensive for many. The manufacturers listened and thought the 28 into existence, describing it as a “hearty little offshore cruiser”.

After this boat was rolled out, about a tonne was added to the ballast, the rudder was enlarged, and to make up for the extra weight, nearly a hundred square feet of sails were added. This happened after about seven models were released, so you can see that it was a work in progress to the last moments.

What this tells you is that it is no engineering miracle, but a boat that listened to people and was made for them. Which resulted in something that won't win races, but will win hearts. I should sell that as a slogan.

This boat has fiberglass molded wine bottles. That tells you all you need to know about this french boat. And it can be yours for as little as $7,000.

Dufour 29 stood at the forefront of European racer-cruisers, it contributed to paving the way for this particular class. It's a beamy boat, so you will get more space than you would expect. And it has a front cabin only, which allows for quite a lot of space back - the cockpit lockers are immense.

The storage space is one of its largest strengths, which helps with longer passages. Since it probably won't be more than two or so people, you can bring as much as your heart desires.

The downside is that although this boat is built to last and the quality shows, it usually features Volvo engines, which means pricey parts. So although the upfront cost isn't necessarily large, the engine will inevitably break with usage and need significant investment.

A nice thing is that although we are talking about a French brand, most of these specific models were exported to the US, so if you live out there, you won't be hard-pressed to find one. And you will stand out from all the Catalinas.

And last but absolutely not least, here is this little hero. We have mentioned it in our article 'The Cheapest, Smallest Boat to Sail Around the World' and the title alone should tell you why it deserves to be here.

You can get it for as little as $3,000 and I'm not talking about a worn-down one that needs months of work before being sailable - I mean a fully functioning one. The most expensive one I saw was for $7,000 and it was so polished and kept up it was a joy just to look at it.

Aside from the price, it's benefit is in the way it's built. It knows it is a small boat and it is on a mission to squeeze as much from the space as possible. It doesn't waste space on being a weekend cruiser but intends to serve as a liveaboard, or at least a boat capable of housing its sailor for weeks on end.

This means you will get a toilet, proper dining table, space for two people (comfort) or four (if you really like each other), and storage space for a circumnavigation.

As is the case usually, it doesn't come without its drawbacks, be it an engine that has a habit of choking itself or mast fitting that tends to give up on life if stressed. But trust me that if you invest in a top of the line model and spend a couple of thousand on refitting and tinkering with everything you can think of, you will end up with a boat cheaper than most of the above and in a bulletproof condition.

So you see it isn't out of reach for the average Joe to get into sailing. Both when it comes to price or skills. So if the idea has been dormant in your head, wake it up. You'll thank yourself.

Jon Stivers

Re: The Cape Dory 28. Yes, full-keel boats track better when going forward, but are more difficult to control in reverse than fin-keel boats. Docking is very challenging for beginners, no matter how well the boat handles. When you test drive a boat, make sure you include going forward and reverse under power.

Thanks for the article, cheers.

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20 Bluewater Cruising Sailboats Under $100,000

January 5, 2021 by Travis Turgeon 2 Comments

Choosing the right bluewater yacht for your needs requires a ton of research. With so many designs and features available, it can be overwhelming trying to narrow down your options. The process gets even more complicated when you begin to consider the personal opinions of other sailors. 

So how do you know where to start? Every person’s definition of comfortability will vary when it comes to onboard living. What suits a family of four won’t necessarily suit a couple or a single-handed sailor. Your budget, style, and needs are all unique to you and your situation, so it’s essential to know just what to look for when buying a new or used vessel . 

To start you off in the right direction, we put together a list of our top choices for bluewater cruising yachts under $100,000.

Allied Princess 36

Built as a long-keel ketch or cutter, the Allied Princess 36 was in production from 1972 to 1982. Around 140 vessels were manufactured in total, so you can occasionally find them on the used market. 

While these cruisers’ design and construction are considered sufficient, the excessive use of fiberglass makes the design a bit bland. Although they may not have the most appealing design, these bluewater yachts certainly tick a lot of boxes.

With the full-keel measuring just four-foot six inches, it’s a design that holds steady on its course without pointing as high as a fin-keel design. 

Overall, the Allied Princess 36 is a wonderful option for bluewater sailing.

Prices range between $30,000 and $60,000.

Cabo Rico 38

The Cabo Rico 38 is at the top of its class, constructed with a long-keel cutter rig design that gives it outstanding bluewater capabilities for its price point. The vessel was produced in two models – Pilothouse, and Trunk Cabin – although the Pilothouse design is less common.

Cabo Rico i s consistently successful with it s 38 models, and t hey remain one of the most prominent cruising boats on the water.

Internally, this boat has various features required for a bluewater cruiser: Large water and fuel tanks, a solid design with balsa wood cores for thermal and noise insulation, and an overall seaworthy design.

While this boat wasn’t m eant to win races, it is a fantastic choice for a crui sing vessel.

Prices range between $30,000 and $80,000.

Celestial 48

The Celestial 48 is the largest boat on our list and is commonly sought after by the cruising fraternity. The problem is, these vessels are scarce on the used market. 

The Celestial 48 is a ketch rig with a shoal-draft, fin-keel design, and a center-cockpit configuration that is comfortable and ideal for bluewater sailing. One of our favorite features is the six-foot, two-inch headroom in the cabin, along with high-capacity water and fuel tanks.

The Celestial 48 was built in China by the Xiamen boatyard, although it’s no longer in production.

If you can find one, the Celestial 48 will make an excellent bluewater cruiser.

Prices start near our $100,000 mark.

The Corbin 39 is manufactured in two designs, aft or center cockpit. Designed and built in Canada by Robert Dufour and Marius Corbin, the 39 is now (sadly) out of production. This cruiser remains a favorite of many and is still commonly searched for on the used market.

One thing to note is that most of the boats were sold as unfinished kits, leaving owners to complete the interiors themselves. For this reason, the standard of interior design finish will vary, so it’s worth checking and comparing with other vessels carefully.

When found, the Corbin 39’s present a very reasonable price tag, but a full survey is essential.

Prices range between $40,000 and $60,000.

The Freedom 36 is one of the smaller yachts on our list, but it has an exciting design that attracts cruisers. The wide beam and long waterline design allow for a much larger interior than most other boats of similar length. As a cruiser, space is a top priority, so this cruiser should be on your list of considerations.

A unique feature of this Freedom yacht is the stayless carbon fiber mast. It looks a little odd for most, with no forestay or backstay and a mast that flexes alarmingly in the wind. It’s a proven design, though, and gives clean lines just like an aircraft wing.

The Freedom 36 is certainly an exciting cruiser to keep an eye on.

Prices range between $40,000 and $80,000.

Gulfstar 44

Known as a capable cruiser or live-aboard boat, the Gulfstar 44 is a spacious yacht that can take you around the world.

Designed with a fin-keel and skeg-rudder, the Gulfstar is comfortable and well built.

Internally, you’ll find a large galley, king-size aft cabin, and spacious fore cabin, with ample room in the saloon. Earlier Gulfstar vessels suffered from inconsistent build quality, but from around 1976 onwards, the company made huge improvements.

For a spacious bluewater sailboat with excellent heavy-weather handling characteristics, the Gulfstar 44 is a great choice.

Prices start around $60,000.

Hans Christian 38

If you’re considering cruising the world in a bluewater yacht, then the Hans Christian 38-T should be added to your shortlist of candidates. 

With a full-length keel design and laden with solid teak, this boat weighs in at 12.5 tons, making it a heavy displacement vessel that you can rely on to take you through some of the harshest conditions.

Manufactured in Taiwan, these cruisers can be a chore to acquire. One of the most common downfalls of the Hans 38-T is electrical problems, so be sure to get the wiring checked out by a professional. 

Outside of electrical issues, this boat is a proven winner in the cruising world. 

Prices start around $70,000 but expect to pay well over $100,000 for the more admirable models.

Hinckley Bermuda 40

The Hinckley Bermuda 40 was in production for over 30 years, from 1959 until 1991, but only 203 boats were manufactured in total. Many Bermuda 40s were used as racing vessels throughout their production, winning the Northern Ocean Racing Trophy in 1964. 

The design also gained many admirers in the cruising world thanks to the long keel and centerboard, which allows the boat to maneuver through shallow waters. The Hinckley Bermuda 40 is hard to beat for versatility, combining classic looks with the shallow draught and generous interior space.

Early models from the 60s and 70s start around $80,000, but later models land well above our $100,000 threshold.

Island Packet 35

Although only in production for six years, 178 Island Packet 35s made their way onto the market. These vessels have become justifiably popular with coastal cruisers and bluewater sailors alike.

These cruisers are available in two designs; long-keel or long-keel with centerboard – both of which come with cutter rigging. 

The design is conservative and built for comfort rather than speed. Inside space is very generous, with a 12-foot beam, a v-berth cabin in the forepeak, and a double cabin on the aft port side.

Island Packet 35’s appear on the used market regularly, so locating one shouldn’t be too much of a hassle.

Prices start at around $65,000.

The Niagara 35 is a popular cruiser available in two exciting models, each one coming with a fantastic interior design. 

The original model features a center galley and marine toilet that separates the fore and aft areas. The saloon is completely closed off, making it useful during extended passage journeys.

The later model has a double-berth forward, separated from the saloon by the head and shower. Both models include a spacious cockpit design. Through its 12 years of production, 260 Niagara 35’s went on the market – so you can regularly find them for sale.

Early models start around $30,000, with later models coming in closer to $70,000.

Only 32 of the Robert Perry-designed Nordic 40s went through production, making them exclusive and difficult to find. If you do manage to get your hands on one, however, you won’t be disappointed.

The fin-keel and skeg-mounted rudder design allow for up to six people to stay comfortably, including extra storage space for luggage and provisions. 

The Perry design is recognized for the quality of its fittings, including rod-rigging and full hull insulation on early models. After 1987, they cut back on a few design features, but it’s still a quality boat. 

If you can manage to find a Nordic 40, it will make an excellent investment.

While it may be rare to find one below our $100,000 mark, it is possible.

Passport 40

Built in Taiwan, the Passport 40 is another excellent design by Robert Perry. Sporting a fin-keel and a skeg-mounted rudder, the design is known for its well-balanced performance. 

Originally supplied with a sloop-rig, the majority have an inner stay, fitted to allow a double headsail. This cutter-style rig makes the Passport 40 even more suitable for ocean crossings.

The interiors are well designed – as you’d expect from a Robert Perry – and make for comfortable living during long passages.

Peterson 44

The Peterson 44 was designed and built as a performance cruiser, combining sufficient speed and sea-kindly handling. 

A low center-cockpit, 10,000 pounds of lead ballast, and a long fin keel allow this vessel to take turbulent conditions in stride without sacrificing the crew’s comfort. 

Internally, there is plenty of space in the well-designed cabin. For long passages, there’s a 132-gallon water tank and a 117-gallon fuel tank.

Finding a Peterson 44 may be your only problem. They manufactured about 200 boats, but owners rarely like to part with them – adding to their intrigue and value.

Prices for these yachts vary widely. Expect to pick up an older model between $50,000 and $75,000.

Prout Snowgoose 37

As the only catamaran on our list, the Prout Snowgoose 37 is a proven boat for circumnavigation on the bluewater trail. 

A standout feature of the early Snowgoose models is its narrow beam, which allows them to navigate canals easily. These boats are popular in Europe and are common on the journey between Spain and France on the Mediterranian. Additionally, the Prout Snowgoose 37 can fit into a single-hull marina, reducing berthing costs when compared to most other catamarans. 

If you have never considered a catamaran in the past, the Prout Snowgoose 37 may change your mind.

Prices start near $45,000, with later models reaching over $100,000.

The Shannon 38 comes in two styles, with either an aft cockpit or pilothouse. Shannon Yachts are known for their build quality and attention to detail, and the 38 is no exception. The boat is available as either a ketch or cutter rig, but it’s renowned for its performance at sea in both forms.

Only 100 were built, with the final boat launched in 1988. If you can find one on the used market, it will make a competent bluewater cruiser.

Prices start at $40,000 for older models, with newer models inching closer to our $100,000 mark.

Only 80 of the Tartan 41s were manufactured, although they produced a similar Tartan 43 with the same molds. It is a fin keel design, with a skeg-mounted rudder and sloop-rigging. In its day, it was considered a fast cruiser, but now they’re mostly made for comfort.

If you’re looking at a Tartan 41, check out the keel dimensions. The keel was undersized on earlier models, which caused heavy-weather steering issues. The boatyard redesigned the later models, and some retrofitting has been done on the originals.

Prices start around $45,000 and reach upwards of $70,000.

No list of bluewater sailboats would be complete without the Tayana 37. It’s a beautiful boat designed by Robert Perry that comes in three variants; cutter, ketch, and pilothouse. 

Built to compete against the popular Westsail 32, the 37 became a good seller – with almost 600 launched to date. Today, they are manufactured in limited numbers, as the traditional teak-heavy design is now less popular.

If you can find a good Tayana 37, cruising the oceans will be a pleasure in this sturdy and robust vessel.

Early models cost around $45,000, with newer or retrofitted models topping $75,000.

Another boat designed by Robert Perry, the Valiant 40 is one of the most sought-after bluewater cruisers on the used market. By the end of production, two manufacturers were able to put out around 200 boats, so it’s certainly possible to get your hands on one.

With a fin keel, reasonably heavy displacement, and solid build, open ocean cruising is made comfortable in the Valiant 40.

The Valiant’s trademark is the canoe stern, something Perry has carried over into many of his designs. The boat’s performance sets it apart from the more traditional heavy-cruisers, and it still has many admirers.

Expect to pay upwards of $45,000 for an early Valiant, but well-maintained vessels will command much higher prices.

Wauquiez Pretorien 35

When the weather gets rough, most people prefer bigger, heavier cruisers. Small boats generally don’t perform as well in harsh conditions, but the Pretorien 35 is an exception.

Built to IOR specifications, it’s a short, wide-beam design, with a ballast in the keel that makes up half of the displacement. It may be disappointing in light winds, but as the breeze picks up, the Pretorien comes alive.

Wauquiez built boats are known for their quality finish, so you shouldn’t hold any doubts when buying a used Pretorien.

Prices start around $39,000.

Westsail 32

At just 32 feet, the Westsail might be a surprising inclusion on our list. However, the design has proven itself many times over and remains popular with many cruisers.

With a long keel, transom-mounted rudder, and heavy displacement, these are seaworthy yachts.

The flipside to this is that the performance can be underwhelming. The Westsails are known for being slow, safe boats that will get you wherever you need to go – making them perfect for leisurely cruising. 

Over 800 vessels entered the market between 1971 and 1981, so there should be plenty available if you look hard enough. The other point to remember is that they sold them as owner-completion kits, so the internal fitments, in particular, will vary in quality.

With so many available, the prices remain reasonable – with an early Westsail 32 fetching around $29,000 and well-maintained older models coming in closer to $50,000.

Remember: When buying a bluewater cruising yacht for less than $100,000, compromise is inevitable. 

If you’re looking for a seaworthy, heavy-displacement design, you’ll have to compromise on the boat’s age. Choosing a modern, light design will allow you more for your money.

The best advice for buying a boat is to be truly honest with yourself by defining your needs and separating them from your desires. 

Want to join the community at #BoatLife? Get a conversation started on our new forum by leaving a question or comment!

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Reader Interactions

November 15, 2021 at 6:30 pm

You guys didn’t mention Cape dory or pacific seacraft. How long have you been sailing?

February 18, 2022 at 1:37 pm

Very nicely done. There will always be people who disagree with your list but they reserve the right to comment without creating any value which is what you provided. Thanks for putting this together.

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25 Popular Boats Under $10,000 (With Pictures & Prices)

Owning a boat doesn’t have to cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars.

You can just as easily find a boat under $10,000. If you know where to look and what to look for.

Here are some great options!

Table of Contents

A number of boats on this list will be used boats which you can commonly find on online or local listings. They are popular models made from companies who are well known for their integrity, strong boats, and customer service.  

2 Bass Boats Under 10 Grand

1) crestliner 1546 retriever jon ($6,510).

The Crestliner 1546 is a 15-foot Mid V with space for four people to get comfortable with plenty of room for their fishing or hunting gear. There is a platform for casting or to help with visibility if you’re hunting.

The wide, flat hull provides a stable base for this boat since Crestliner knew that they’re customers do a lot of fast and hard movements, whether they’re shooting at ducks or casting a fly-fishing line.

It is constructed from high-grade aluminum which makes it both low-maintenance and also incredibly durable. Crestliner is known for it’s strength and the 1546 Retriever is no exception. The 1546 Retriever is built to get to those tricky fishing spots.

The Lock Track Gunnel System lets you mount the accessories you want, to make your expedition relaxing, fun, and successful. It is a solid boat with not a lot of fancy bells or whistles. But the low price point gives your budget the wiggle room it needs to buy the accessories that you’ve been dying for.

It sits at just over 15’ and has a dry weight of 290 lbs (without the engine).

2) Tracker Pro Team 170 TX

This aluminum bass boat is abundant out in the market because they are plentiful. It’s not just that they’ve been on the market for a long time.

They were released from 1995 to 2015 and there’s a reason why it was in such high demand for 20 years.

The low price point and the sturdy build, with the custom-matched trailers, stock basic fishing gadgets, live wells, marine-grade carpet and trolling motors made it a steal!

The Pro 170 stats put it at over 16 and a half feet with a beam of 6’ 5”. The maximum capacity is 4 so you can bring a few of your fishing buddies or take the family out on the lake for a leisurely fishing trip.

3) Sabre 28 ($7,000)

You might have seen this sailboat listed in our 20 Boats Under $30,000 article . It’s listed here because, at the bare minimum, you can get one for $7,000.

The Sabre might seem a bit small as it sits at 28 feet, but don’t let it’s little stature thwart you. It’s a hearty thing with a moderate displacement/length ration of 278. This means decent stowage and an average sail area ratio (SA/D) of 16.6. This is a pretty decent performance under sail.

It handles easily, even if the mainsail is a bit smaller than the foretriangle.

10 Fishing Boats Under 10 Grand

4) carolina skiff jv 13 (> $10,000).

The Carolina Skiff JV 13 comes complete with an outboard motor and comes with a custom trailer. There are only a few fiberglass boats on this list because they are normally much more expensive than their aluminum cousins.

At the base price, it’s also bare in amenities but it does come with a pedestal seat, an eight gallon live well, and a foredeck.

5) Gillgetter 7515 (> $10,000)

The Gillgetter 7515 is made by a company called Angler Quest, which should say it all. This fishing boat is a wonderful little pontoon/fishing boat combo.

It has all the markings of a fishing boat with the space of a small pontoon boat.

The 7515 Fishing Pontoon boat comes in at $10,000 but if you want something even cheaper, they have a smaller model (which is about two feet shorter).

6) Hobie Mirage Pro Angler

It’s a fishing kayak. A fishing kayak! The Mirage Pro Angler is a great, single (or double, if you opt for the bigger version) fishing kayak.

There are three boats in this line:

• The Mirage Pro Angler 12
• Mirage Pro Angler 14
• The (bigger, two-person) Mirage Pro Angler 17T

It has a pedal drive and a comfortable seat, with just enough room for your fishing gear as well. While you’ll have to go to a local dealer for the exact prices, they hover around the $5000 price, which means you can buy two.

7) Lowe Roughneck 1660 ($8,750)

The Roughneck 1660 comes with an $82.66 monthly payment (if you buy it stock with a 9.9 horsepower outboard and a trailer) if you buy one from a certified dealer.

The camo finish makes it both a fishing boat as well as a hunting boat. If you’re planning on taking a couple of friends with you (with all of your gear), you might want to nab a bigger engine.

A 20 horsepower outboard can still get you out the door under $10,000 but you won’t be leaving with that low monthly payment.  

8) Lund WC 16 ($4,966)

The Lund WC 16 Aluminum skiff starts off so cheap because it comes bare when it’s stock. That also means no trailer, but you can easily get one at around $1,500. Even with buying a 20 horsepower outboard, you’ll be able to still make it off the dealer’s lot without going over $10,000. The extra bonus is that this little aluminum boat can hold 5 people.

It is a basic boat, however, so don’t get your hopes up that you’ll be getting anything more than a great hull and some seating.

9) Sea Eagle FishSkiff 16 ($3,600)

This one is an inflatable boat. It can seat two people and has a small outboard with about six horsepower. The best part? Once you pull it out of the water, clean it, and dry it properly, you can deflate it, fold it up, and store it in your closet. Put it in a plastic tote and tuck it in the garage.

No need to rent space in a rack storage unit.

The sticker price listed above is with the stock engine (five horsepower Honda)

10) Skimmer 14’6” ($8,750)

The Skimmer Skiffs 14’6” flats boat is a great little summer fiberglass boat for shallow water. You can fish with just a four-inch draft. Talk about shallow. The sticker price above comes with a 20 horsepower Tohatsu outboard motor.

You can use the rest of the $10,000 on some fancy amenities including some rod holders, fish-boxes, or some sunscreen.

Unfortunately, you might want to spend some of those extra funds on stainless-steel cleats and a bilge pump, but both of those should cost you less than $500.

This customizable boat is great for any fisherman who just wants the basics: a man and his boat (and maybe a fishing buddy). What more do you want on a Sunday morning?

11) Alumacraft Crappie Jon ($8,900)

This lightweight boat is designed for ease. It’s easy to haul with a comfortable design. Even stock, it comes with a bow trolling motor bracket, an aluminum transom, keel breaks, a single-stage metallic paint, and a five-gallon non-aerated live well.

It also comes with a 20-horsepower engine and two seats for you and your favorite fishing buddy.

12) Tracker Guide V-16 Laker DLX T (> $10,000)

The Tracker Guide V-16 Laker DLX T Aluminum Fishing Boat comes stock with a 20 horsepower Mercury FourStroke outboard and a custom trailer.

It might not have a lot of bells and whistles, but it is both seaworthy and sturdy, especially for the price point.

13) Sun Dolphin Pro 102

The Sun Dolphin Pro 102 Mini-Fishboat is the type of boat you take out on the lake with a friend and a cooler full of drinks. It has a 55-pound thrust 12-volt electric outboard, which will get you where you need to go. There is a live well built-in as well.

The twin swivel seats will guarantee that you’ll be able to find the fish, no matter where they are around the boat.

It’s a small enough boat that it can even fit in the back of some pick-up trucks, which negates the need for a trailer and most expensive options for storage.

Do a great job winterizing it, and get a decent boat cover, and you can leave it in your garage until the warm weather comes around again.

4 Inboard Boats Under $10,000

14) sport nautique (listed under $10,000).

These boats from the mid-’90s were known for being luxurious and comfortable. The company itself is what sets this boat apart from any others. The customer service has kept their boat owners happy for over two decades. The Nautique itself has a 5.8 PCM engine, which has plenty of torque and is easy to maintain.

They don’t often stay on the market long, so if you see one, don’t hesitate to snap it up.

15) Mastercraft Pro Star 190 (listed under $10,000)

These Mastercraft boats were built from 1994 to 1998.

They are dependable, comfortable, and have a surprising amount of power for such a small boat and such a small price. These were incredibly popular and built to amazing quality standards. Not once, in the four years that they were being built, did anyone ever hear any warnings about them.

They are hearty and strong with a price that won’t break the bank.

16) Centurion LaPoint

The Centurion LaPoint was made between 1996 and 1998. Centurion is known as one of the best boat companies in the industry and is often known for overbuilding their boats.

The engines were powerful. The fiberglass was thick. The seats were incredibly padded.

These boats were built to last, which is why you can still find a few on the market.

17) Tige Pre 2100

The Tige Pre 2100 boats were in production between 1996 and 1999. The design was simple, yet elegant with a timeless quality to them.

But the Tige isn’t just a pretty face. It also had a powerhouse engine which could get upwards of 260 horsepower. The fiberglass hull made it lightweight with a weight of 2825 lbs.

Run-Around Boats Under 10 Grand

18) carver montego ($9,995).

The Carver Montego line are cruisers designed like the classic cruisers from the mid-’80s. It’s a bite-sized run-around that is 27’ at the longest.

But with a price at under $10,000, you can’t beat the deal.

It’s surprisingly roomy with the 23-footer able to comfortably sleep, four people. It has a swim platform and a convertible top, all of which are standard on all of the Montego boats.

Look into the Carver Montego boats if you’re looking for a boat big enough for four without having to take up too much room otherwise. They are stern drive boats and (depending on the model you get) can have either a single-engine, twin-engine, Mercruisers, or Volvo Pentas.

4 Small Pocket Cruiser Sailboats  

Pocket cruisers are sailboats that are built for club racing and cruising. They’re generally under 30’ feet. It is lightweight and small and can be launched from any boat ramp.

You can feel comfortable going out on a pocket cruiser sailboat and stay in a comfortable interior with $V-style sleeping arrangements and with the comfort of knowing that you’re both safe and stable on the water.

They can also be tailored, which is why most of them are on this list. You can give yours as many bells and whistles as you want.

But if you’re just looking for a small pocket cruiser sailboat with a budget that’s equally as small, you can feel safe with any of the basic models on this list.

19) Ranger 26

These beautiful and small sailboats have proven to be a good way to bridge the gap between being a competitive racer and having a comfortable and safe family cruiser. They are built to be fast but has the range of being a great family sailboat.

One of these boats even won the 1970 IOR North American Half-Ton Cup.

20) Etap 28s

These are the most unusual sailboats on today’s list. They have a uniquely shaped profile, which allows for plenty of room below. It has a double hull construction, but it is also basically unsinkable because of the shapes of it.

The name refers to how it is built as a “ship-in-ship construct”. It has twin hulls, solid fiberglass laminate decks, and space that’s filled with closed-cell polyurethane foam. This means that if the hull is compromised (pieced, slashed, cut, gashed, etc.), it will still stay up because of the foam in between the slats.

It is kept drier and quieter than other boats since it has a high level of thermal and acoustic insulation. In other words, the hull in hull sandwich makes it robust, rigid, quiet, and warm.

The only stateroom that it has is located aft with the entire interior finished in light-colored wood, cranberry counters, and with the same cranberry color on the upholstery.

21) Newport 27

The Newport first showed up on the scene in 1971 and is still kicking strong. At 27-feet, it small on the outside but is surprisingly spacious inside.

It also has all of the amenities you would normally find on a bigger boat, including a table, van station, 4 berths, galley, and head. The tiller steering wheel comes in handy when the breeze and weather help lead you to shorten the sail early.

22)  Islander Bahama 28

The Islander Bahama pocket sailboat is a beautiful boat with a five-and-a-half-foot draft and 3,300 pounds of ballast. The sails track well and respond smoothly to the helm. The unusually tall beam (10 feet) are broad for a small boat like the Islander Bahama 28 but make for a fast boat which is also stable in the breeze and light air.

The interior is modular with teak components (which were fabricated in a mill and assembled off the boat). It was then installed just before the deck was fitted.

The interior is made of stained-oak countertops with a saloon table and whicker-fronted teak doors for the cabinets.

The Bahama models are known for their U-shaped galleys with the icebox located aft, a stovetop in the middle, and a sink facing the folding saloon.

The standard models of Islanders normally have an L-shaped galley with the sink in the aft.

Pontoon Boats

Most new pontoon boats will be in between $10,000 to $30,000.

However, you can find a few great used pontoon boats in your local paper or online listings.

23) 16’ to 24’ Sweetwater Pontoon Boats

One example of a great pontoon boat that you can find in your local listings is the 16’ to 24’ Sweetwater Pontoon Boats. You won’t just find older versions of these boats on the market either.

Listings can range between boats from the late ’90s to only two or three years ago.

Since there are so many listings on the market, it can be difficult to pin down any specific amenities they often come with.

While some have Bimini tops, others will be bare. Some with have 9.9 horsepower while others will come with horsepower in the hundreds.

Personal Watercraft

Colloquially known as “jet skis” (which are actually a name brand of personal watercraft by Kawasaki), personal watercrafts can be a lot of fun.

While some people might not consider them as “boats”, they are still vehicles that can ferry you from one part of a lake to the other.

24) Sea-Doo Spark 900 H.O. 2-Up ($5,399)

Sea-Doo is a name synonymous with personal watercrafts. Depending on what extras you want with the base model, the $5,399 price can easily jump $1,000 or so.

The Spark 2-Up can seat 2 people with a weight capacity of 352 lbs. It comes stock with a ROtaxa 900 ACE engine with a hull made of Polytec (which is a lightweight and scratch-resistant surface).

The dry weight is 405 lbs.

25) Yamaha Ex Sport ($7,799)

Yamaha Waverunners is another name that most people know of. The since the days of the Waverunner, Yamaha has engineered the Ex Sport Rec-Lite. It can seat 1 – 3 people and comes in “Carbon Metallic” (a shade of silver) with accents of either lime yellow, or “pure white with azure.”

It comes with mechanical reverse, a glove box, dual mirrors, two-tone deck mats, a tow hook, a re-boarding step, and an automatic bilge.

The re-boarding step makes it easier to hop on after you take a quick swim. It also conveniently tucks away when it is no longer needed.

Located under the seat, the two hook makes water skiing and inner-tubing a breeze. Meanwhile, the dual mirror makes it easier for you to see how your passengers are doing behind you: whether they’re on the PWC or if they’re being towed.

Typical Small Boat Problems

Owning a small boat can be great. There are plenty of advantages of owning a medium to small-sized boat:

• Cheaper rack fees for storage
• The option of storing it on your property
• Smaller boat = smaller trailer = smaller vehicle needed for transport
• Much more affordable than a larger boat
• Easier to clean

However, there are also specific problems that come with owning a smaller boat , including:

• Small craft warnings – when you’re in a smaller boat out on the rough water, you’ll end up running into much more trouble than larger boats.
• Small deck space – when you need or want some crewman with you on a small boat, there’s more of a chance that there will be an accident because there isn’t much room to work with.
• On a bigger boat, you’ll have more room for emergency equipment. On a small boat, there should be plenty of room for the necessities when it comes to emergency gear. The chances that you’ll need power anchor windlasses, dinghy lifts, bow thrusters, and stabilizers aren’t as big when you’re in your small vessel (in calm waters). However, it’s convenient to have the bigger emergency equipment if something does happen.

Final Thoughts:

When you decide to buy a new boat, it can be like buying a car. It’s exciting, nerve-wracking, and it can also be expensive. But it doesn’t have to be.

New vs. Used Boats

New boats might look shiny and new, but remember that boats depreciate faster than cars do, as soon as you drive the trailer off the lot.

So instead of only focusing on new boats, why not take a look at some used boats as well.

Make a list of the amenities you want, as well as a list of prices:

• What are you going to use your boat for? Which amenities do you need for those activities?
• What is the highest price you will go (including all of the extra fees and taxes)?
• How much do you have for annual fees? Insurance, slip or rack rental, etc.
• What is your ideal (realistic) price for the boat itself (including engine and trailer)?

If you want to look into used boats, make sure you set aside a little money for a marine specialist. This person can look at the boat to make sure it is sound and seaworthy.

Often, just the peace of mind is worth the price.

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.

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Boat Under 5k

• Thread starter heatjay
• Start date Mar 15, 2010
• Mar 15, 2010

Hello everyone! I'm a 22 yr old college student from Boston, MA. With that said, I am looking for a boat that is under 5k. My main use would just be for fishing (stripers, blues, etc) in the harbor or in cape cod. Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Thanks. Joey  

Petty Officer 1st Class

Re: Boat Under 5k No one I know owns a boat. What is the most important thing to look for? as far as condition?  

Re: Boat Under 5k Are aluminum boats a good choice?  

RWilson2526

Master chief petty officer.

Re: Boat Under 5k I always recommend V-20's....look for a Wellcraft V-20....can easily find a late 80's with same year motor in that price range....great fishing boat and an all around utility style....20' long so easy to tow and still a good open water handling boat. Best thing is that once you decide you want that style of boat its just a matter of finding the right one close to you at the right price you will probably be able to find 5 or 6 to choose from within 50 miles of you..... good luck... http://www.wellcraftv20.com  

Chief Petty Officer

Re: Boat Under 5k sea trial and survey your choice first,,,a few $$ well invested. you should also take a coast guard class. As far as what your looking to do and where,,,a center console no smaller than 18' with a 125hp on it. whaler mako wellcraft trophy ect..... best of luck  

Home Cookin'

Fleet admiral.

Re: Boat Under 5k look for a 17' Whaler, a V hull @ 19-21' Parker, proline, sea pro, sea hunt; carolina skiff 17+. Center console, all fiberglass. You will have to watch your weather and not venture too far, but if you buy a big boat cheap you are at greater risk when you go out far or in iffy weather. Since you are in high salt and choppy water, I'd avoid old aluminum hulls but you might find a gem. Get an outboard. The hulls I mentioned above are pretty tough and a beat-up hull can still be solid. Your focus shold be on the condition of the motor; that is really what you are buying. Likewise, unless you are going to be trailering a lot, you don't need to put the money there. Just keep the trailer out of the salt water. Do NOT get a bow rider no matter how tempting the price is. A cheap boat's purchase price is just a down payment. Also don't get a "bay boat" hull design under 21' or a bass boat. You are in some fun but challenging waters; if you are new to it, learn and respect it. You can have a lot of fun in the boats I mention. Askaround on some fishing forums up there, and see if you can get on some boats as a HO.  

Re: Boat Under 5k Homecooking, why not a Bowrider? Just interested in your opinion.  

Re: Boat Under 5k Only because of the type of boating he's doing: open water, salt, and fishing; plus he wants an old inexpensive boat. He's striper fishing and that means cold water and probably at night; safety is important. The BR hull design is dangerous in chop and swells b/c the bow will bury and the open front is a scoop, and then (typically) no fast draining scuppers at deck level. (Same reason I recommend against the bay boat hull, and others said V-20). You need to operate standing up in those waters fishing, so the side sit-down helm doesn't work. And you have far less room to move around, and to fish stripers you have to walk up and down the sides. You need places for your live well and fish locker. But right now, the almost-free used boats are almost all BR's or similar. The interior in an old inexpensive BR will be in sad shape, unlike a similar vintage and well-used fiberglass. Then you have to be able to hose it off, since you'll cover it with fish slime and blood, plus bait. Bad scene on carpet. I'm not knocking a BR for comfortable riding around on the right waters but it is a sit-down design and better suited for cleaner calmer activities. Guys fishing like to stand up. Some dual consoles are a good compromise, except the standing up part; my DC Key West is a great flats boat for fishing and has open spaces fore and aft. I use it in the marshes, fishing and hunting--but I have no uphostelry or carpet.  

Re: Boat Under 5k Thanks Home cooking. That is a correct statement on the Bowrider in rough waters, trust me I was there last weekend. Only lasted 2hrs and had to get out. It is not rough water boat at all. Take care.  

Petty Officer 2nd Class

• Mar 16, 2010

Re: Boat Under 5k www.boattrader.com  

Home Cookin' said: . The BR hull design is dangerous in chop and swells b/c the bow will bury and the open front is a scoop, and then (typically) no fast draining scuppers at deck level. (Same reason I recommend against the bay boat hull, and others said V-20). . Click to expand...

Re: Boat Under 5k You have a god rig there, too. I was taking "V-20" not so much as the Wellcraft model but any V hull at 20'. My Sea Hunt 212, for example, is a deep V center console 21'. I meant to say I agree with that recommendation. I'm sure, too, there are boats outfitted like a bow rider on a good ocean-going hull, especially the quality brands, but the typical, or more popular, BR's have a rolled edge and even drop-down bow. A new boater might not know that hull design is more important than length for seaworthiness. So it's about time to get the bite on down here, adn they are headed your way!  

• Mar 26, 2010

Re: Boat Under 5k I really appreciate everyone's advice. What do you guys think of this for a beginners boat/project. Its a 1971 Seacraft CC with a 120 Hp Mercury Engine for $2500. Here is the listing. http://boston.craigslist.org/sob/boa/1661294324.html  

Re: Boat Under 5k Seacraft would make an excellent choice.....I would try to get a picture....I'm not an expert but an I/O on a center console? is it maybe a straight inboard? I definitely could be wrong but looking around Classic Seacraft I cant find a single 20' with an I/O.....  

Re: Boat Under 5k get an outboard.  

Re: Boat Under 5k I agree with all f the above. The craigs listing is kind of old and taking notes from other forums here, you need to be carefull and inspect that boat for many things to be wrong but fixable. I'd keep shopping for something newer, they are out there. Taking the safe boating course, even if it is not a state requirement. I also would go with an outboard, IMHO. Welcome to iboats.  

Re: Boat Under 5k I'm going to take that course after I get a boat. I've been looking for the past few weeks but there's nothing on craigslist or boattrader in the Mass area.  

Re: Boat Under 5k SeaCrafts are great boats, if its close by go take a look...cant hurt.  

Re: Boat Under 5k How are Makos?  

National News | 27 high schoolers rescued after boat capsizes…

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National News | 27 high schoolers rescued from Long Island Sound after boat capsizes off Connecticut

The U.S. Coast Guard plucked more than two dozen high school students from the waters of Long Island Sound on Wednesday after their boat capsized in Westport, Conn .

The Coast Guard was called at around 5:40 p.m. for a report of a capsized boat near Compo Beach and found multiple people in the water, WFSB reported. Seven boats from various local agencies raced to the area as well, according to the outlet.

It took about half an hour to rescue the 27 high school students and two adults, with the last person pulled from the water at 6:15 p.m. For a harrowing few minutes, one high schooler was missing, but was located soon after. No one was hospitalized or suffered serious injuries.

The boat had collided with another , sending the occupants tumbling into Long Island Sound, the Coast Guard told WTNH, noting it was owned by Westport’s Saugatuck Rowing Company.

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VESSEL REVIEW | Sinichka – Electric commuter boats designed for Russia’s Moskva River

A series of three new electric monohull commuter ferries have already begun operational sailings on the Moskva River in the Russian capital Moscow.

Built by Russian shipyard Emperium, sister vessels Sinichka , Filka , and Presnya – all named after rivers in Moscow – are being operated by the Moscow Department of Transport and Road Infrastructure Development (Moscow Deptrans). They are the first units of a planned fleet of 20 vessels that will serve the capital city and other nearby communities. The new ferry system will be the water transport system to be operated on the Moskva River in 16 years.

Each vessel has a welded aluminium hull, an LOA of 21 metres, a beam of 6.2 metres, a draught of only 1.4 metres, a displacement of 40 tonnes, and capacity for 80 passengers plus two crewmembers. Seating is available for 42 passengers on each ferry, and the main cabins are also fitted with USB charging ports, wifi connectivity, tables, toilets, and space for bicycles and scooters. The cabin layout can be rearranged to allow the operator to adjust the distances between the seats and to install armrests of varying widths.

An open upper deck is also accessible to passengers and is the only area on each ferry where smoking is allowed.

The ferries are all of modular construction with each ferry’s wheelhouse, main cabin, and other structural elements being built as complete, separate components. This enables the ferries to be easily dismantled for transport to anywhere in Russia by rail and then quickly re-assembled within seven days.

The ferries are also ice-capable. Recently completed operational trials on the Moskva showed that the vessels can also easily navigate under mild winter conditions with broken surface ice, though year-round operations are planned for the entire fleet.

The ferries are each fitted with 500kWh lithium iron phosphate battery packs that supply power to two 134kW motors. This configuration can deliver a maximum speed of 11.8 knots, a cruising speed of just under 10 knots, and a range of 150 kilometres.

Emperium said the transfer of rotation of electric motors to the propeller is carried out by direct drive. As a propulsion installation, a pulling rotary propeller-steering column with double screws is used. The installation of double pulling screws, with similar power, allows an operator to increase the efficiency of the propulsion system to deliver a slightly higher speed or to reduce energy consumption. This arrangement also provides the ferries with enhanced manoeuvrability necessary for navigating in close quarters.

The batteries themselves have projected service lives of 10 to 12 years and are fitted with safety features such as built-in fire extinguishers and gas vents. Quick-disconnect features allow the batteries to be easily removed for replacement or maintenance.

Some of our readers have expressed disquiet at our publication of reviews and articles describing new vessels from Russia. We at Baird Maritime can understand and sympathise with those views. However, despite the behaviour of the country’s leaders, we believe that the maritime world needs to learn of the latest developments in vessel design and construction there.

Click here to read other news stories, features, opinion articles, and vessel reviews as part of this month’s Passenger Vessel Week.

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Tags: Emperium Filka Moscow Moscow Department of Transport and Road Infrastructure Development Moskva River Presnya Russia Sinichka WBW newbuild

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