28 ft sailboat trailer

(281) 844-4458

Welcome to Custom Sailboat Trailers

Trailer Facts

• We build galvanized sail boat trailers
• Some of our trailers are refurbished. 
• They are all float on trailers 
• We build extensions for launching
• Our used trailers are rebuilt stronger 

• We also move boats
• Transport Boats
• Trailer Parts
• Tongue extensions
• Side Guides
• Safety Chains

Interesting Facts

•  In 2008 the  EPA took the lead and nickel out of the hot dipped galvanize. I bought  all the hot dipped galvanized frames i could,built before 2009 at scrap  prices,so the trailer manufacturers could buy the aluminum to get a head  start in the aluminum trailer business. Some of the trailer builders  that did not get in the race,went under.Sportsman trailers in Texas  was one of them. I bought about 200 of there frames. These frames were  all built for mono hulls.I build my sail boat trailers with these  frames. I go up with a 2" galvanized pipe,then weld two 3/4" nuts near the top.I brace the risers  with two are three 1 1/2"x1/4" angle iron braces with a 1 1/2" pipe  telescoping up and down with a swivel pad or runners. 
•  J 22 and J 24  trailer fits most any boat with a deep draft.The axles are on slides  U-bolted to frame so you can add another axle. 
• This trailer  is 30 ft . It will adjust to   any sail boat are mono hull boat. It is  galvanized  It is 42 years old. I has the  good galvanize.and great  American steel. 
• Galvanized with three 5200 lb axle,     10 risers, adjustable to fit deep drafts 
•  25 to 28 ft shallow draft or swing keel
• Painted  trailer with 10 risers, 37ft long, with three 5200 lb axles,surge brake  on two axles. It is ready to go. Call it will sell fast. 
• This trailer carried the boat 10,000 mi. It is for sale for $2,500.I will add a bow stop 
•  Yard trailer  that can be converted later for road trailer we can add  one more 4500  lb axle and adjust the bow stop. The bow stop is U-bolted to the tongue.  When you have completed the work and ready for the road. We can assist  you in completing the trailer. 
• Rubber bushing under keel board to take the shock off the keel.  

Painted trailer for Catalina 25

• Hunter 26 
• Oday24 
• $2300 
•  24 ft frame for 30 ft boat for three  axles 
•  This trailer  was made for a 5500 lb boat. We are able to add another slide with  axles, brake, and fenders to accommodate an 8000 lb boat. Also the two  axles were on slides U-bolted to frame. 
• J27 1985  had  to add another axle. It had 700 lbs of water absorbed in hull. By  having axles on slides, we saved him about $2200.One happy camper. 

more trailers

• Trailer on right, before uprights we go up  with 2" galvanize pipe with 1 1/2" to telescope up and down with swivel  pad on top.On top of 2" we weld two 3/4" nuts to hold the 1 1/2" That is  a big bolt. 
• Trailer frame before up rights installed
• This picture is to show you the extensions with tires we build.We can build any length. We also build extensions for the tongue.These are built with 3x3 tubing,no wheels.  if they are  under 8 ft we can ship for under $50. 

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Loadmaster Co. Ltd

High Quality Custom Boat Trailers

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All sailboats are diverse and unique, and for that very reason it is imperative that your boat trailer fits your vessel’s hull and keel exactly. Whether your keel is a swing, bulb, full, fixed, fin, shoal, wing or retractable, your custom sailboat trailer will be designed to effectively support and protect the keel. Also, properly placed screwpads or treated lumber bunks will support your sailboat’s hull and bulkheads. This ensures the safe and sturdy transport of your precious rig! Our trailers are also designed to make loading and launching as easy and pain-free as possible. Some options we use to make this possible include keel rests, keel guides, tongue extensions, side guides, and more!

Floating On and Off, or Hoisting On and Off the Trailer

Many customers want a sailboat trailer that allows their sailboat to seamless float on and off the trailer once it has been backed into the water. We work with you during the design process to make sure we build the trailer suitably for your needs, taking into account the ramps you typically use, water depth, tides, etc. Oftentimes we will design or create new options to remove the stress that is often felt when you find yourself facing the launching ramp. We also have plenty of options to suit your personal sailing lifestyle!

You may also choose to have your sailboat hoisted on and off the trailer. If this is the case, you will want to choose the screwpad style support system, as it also allows for further adjustability when working on the sailboat’s hull.

Loadmaster sailboat trailers have a number of standard features that come with all of our custom trailers. To make your sailboat trailer truly unique, we also offer a range of options to choose from.

• Custom painting for freshwater use
• Galvanize your custom trailer for salt water use
• Mast Carriers and/or ladders
• Pull pin style tongue extension or large separate extensions
• Front Idler axles
• Bunks with or without Sling Pockets
• Structural Screwpads set for the bulkheads on your boat

The Saltwater Experience

If you plan to use your custom sailboat trailer in salt water, we can provide you with the entire Salt Water Series which can be adapted to suit your launching style. Our mig-welded C-Channel steel trailer frames and parts are manufactured and welded, then sent to get hot-dip galvanized after construction. This ensures that the entire trailer is as corrosion-resistant as possible while providing you with strength that will never be offered by an aluminum trailer.

• Galvanizing (All galvanization services come with a 5-year warranty)
• Stainless steel hardware
• Freshwater brake flush kit or numerous Disc brake options
• All LED lights and More!

Call or contact Loadmaster Trailer Company LTD for a fast quote today. Please call or use the form on the right to receive a response quickly via email.

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• Wednesday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm EST
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• Friday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm EST
• Saturday Closed
• Sunday Closed

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You can enjoy the reliability and performance of a Load Rite trailer for your sailboat by specifying a custom trailer through your dealer.

We combine our modular pods with a keel board and winch stand options on any number of Load Rite or 5 STARR bunk models to conform to many sailboat applications. Each trailer must be specified on an individual basis. To get started, download the attached sailboat trailer specifications document before contacting your local Load Rite dealer . Your dealer will collect the model number and other details about your boat and work with our Customer Service and Engineering staff to come up with a recommendation and a quote for your Load Rite trailer.

All of these features are backed by the industry leading Load Rite 2 + 3 Warranty.

Specifications subject to change without notice.  Not responsible for publishing errors.

STANDARD FEATURES

Galvanized Steel Frame

Tubular structural steel, fully hot dip galvanized, provides the ultimate finish for any boat trailer.  Tubular design shrouds wiring and brake lines from damage.  All machining and welding is performed before galvanizing, so there are no surfaces left unprotected from a boat trailer’s ultimate enemy: corrosion.

Patented Aluminum I-Beam Frame

Patented designs offer many features that add functionality to a great look.  Integrated wire gutter beneath the top flange securely protects wiring and brakelines.  Models to 7,300 lbs. capacity feature a captured fastener channel along the bottom flange offering invisible mounting points for other features.  Web mounted crossbars strengthen the overall frame assembly.

Galvanized Crossbars and Tongue

Torsion Axles

Torsion axles provide independent suspension, exceptional rigidity, corrosion resistance, and a far superior ride to any leaf spring suspension.  Available on most models.

Greaseable Hubs

Trailer with peace of mind knowing that you’ve inspected the condition and topped off the lubricant level in each hub of your trailer.

Disc Brakes (Where Installed)

This trailer is equipped with disc brakes (where installed).  Load Rite recommends disc brakes on all wheels where available.  Disc brakes are self-adjusting and self-cleaning and require minimal maintenance in order to continue to deliver top performance.  Follow maintenance tips in your Owners Manual for more detailed instructions.

DOT Rated Tires and Lighting

All Load Rite original equipment tires and lighting components are fully DOT approved.

Balanced Wheels 13″ and Larger

CounterAct Wheel Bead Balancing is now included on all 13″ and larger wheel assemblies as a standard feature.  The wheels dynamically balance during each use. Visit counteractbalancing.com for more information.

Aluminum Diamond Plate Fenders

A stylish design combined with extreme durability.  Standard on all single axle models with 13″ and larger wheels.

Heat-Shrunk Sealed, Concealed Wiring

Standard equipment on all trailers 17′ and longer except welded frame models.

Adjustable Carpeted Bunks

Traditionally known as V-bunks, this system offers both high strength and a wide range of adjustability.  Out of adjustment?  There are shorter and taller bolster brackets available in many heights.

A winch is standard equipment on all boat and PWC models.  Capacity and features vary by application.

Tongue Jack

Tongue jacks are standard equipment on all Load Rite Elite models 90″ wide and wider except two-place PWC models, all 5 STARR models, and all UT, EQ, and CH models.  Appearance and specifications vary by application.  Tongue jacks are optional on all other models.

NATM Certified

Each year Load Rite trailers undergo a detailed inspection process in order to earn the right to proudly display this certification on products we manufacture.

NMMA / NATM Certified

2 Plus 3 Years Coupler to Taillight Warranty

Load Rite’s premiere warranty exclusive to our Elite line of trailers.

102″ Overall Width (96″ and Wider Models)

Add extra width to standard 96″ wide trailers.

Swing Tongue

Applications are limited by trailer capacity and tongue length.  Not available on models exceeding 6,000 lbs. capacity.  Consult with a dealer.

Radial Tires

Smoother riding and longer wear life than many bias-ply tires.  A highly recommended upgrade.  Available for 13″ and larger wheels.

Aluminum Wheels

A stylish option available with bias-ply or radial tires for most models in 12″, 13″, 14″, 15″ and 16″ sizes.

Spare Tire and Carrier

The most important option to consider, every trailer should have a spare tire readily available.  Consult dealer for recommended bracket for individual application.

Vault® Hubs

Vault® – The VAULT® “Hybrid Lubrication System” uses a semi-fluid oil in a pressurized chamber to give you the ultimate in wheel bearing lubrication and protection. At ambient temperatures the oil is thick with a viscosity approaching grease. As the bearing temperature rises during towing, the VAULT’s Hybrid Oil thins out replenishing the bearings with lubricant and dissipating heat. No inspection, no maintenance and no service required.  *Vault® hubs require Dexter axle.  Vault® and Kodiak® stainless disc brakes cannot be combined.

Consult a dealer to confirm application.

Brakes on All Axles

Important Safety Issue – Brake Requirements   

Brake laws vary by state and require dealers to sell trailers that comply with the brake laws of the state where the trailer will be registered.  This is a very important safety issue .  For full information contact the appropriate state Motor Vehicle Department.  As always, Load Rite recommends brakes on all axles where available.

Stainless Steel Disc Brakes

Optional stainless steel brakes available for most 14″, 15″ and 16″ wheel applications. Can be used with surge and electric over hydraulic actuators.*

May require optional axle installation.  Check with your local dealer before ordering.

Stainless Brakelines

A valuable upgrade to any trailer, but especially those to see service in coastal regions with salt water exposure.

Electric Over Hydraulic Brakes

EOH brakes offer electric in-cab control of standard hydraulic disc brakes.  Requires in-cab controller and 7-pin round electrical connection to the tow vehicle.

LED Lighting

LED lights offer far greater reliability than incandescent fixtures.  Long-lasting and waterproof design make these lights ideal for any trailer application.

2″ by 6″ Bunks

Marine grade carpet over 2″ x 6″ dimensional lumber.

Plastic Bunk Covers

These multi-purpose covers provide a smooth surface to help the boat or pontoon to slide easier when launching and loading.  They also offer an insulating barrier to help prevent corrosion for metallic hulled craft.  Protect your aluminum hull.

Highly recommended for metal-hulled boats and pontoon applications.

Steady Rest

Carpeted bunk section positioned above and perpendicular to the trailer tongue.  Provides an extra resting and balance point, and helps prevent keel contact with the tongue when loading in certain ramp conditions.

Carpeted Side Guides

Standard on most skiff and jon models.

Drop-Style Tongue Jack

An upgraded jack that provides greater capacities and fast setup with no need to swivel.

Tongue jacks are recommended on all trailers.  Appearance and specifications vary by application.  Tongue jacks are optional on all models where not original equipment.

Rubber Fenders

Rubber fenders are intended for use on dealer yard trailers.  Yard trailers need the flexibility to adapt to many different hull shapes without imparting any damage in the process.  Rubber fenders minimize the possibility of damage should the fender contact the boat hull.

Sailboat 5S-213600VT

McGregor Sailboat

26 McGregor Sailboat on LR-AB25T6000102LT2 with modifications.

Marshall-Sanderling

Marshall-Sanderling on a modified 182800102VT.

Muscugos 18

Muscugos 18 on Load Rite 18240096VT with dealer installed support system.

Stuart 19, similar to Rhodes 19, on a 5S-17220090VW.

On a custom fit 222650VSGG0.

On a custom fit pod trailer.

Pearson 22 2

Warranty Information

Owners manual.

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• 28 Sailboat Trailer

28 Sailboat Trailer Boats for sale

2008 Custom Windward 28

Middleburg, Florida

Make Custom

Model Windward 28

Category Ketch

Posted 3 Weeks Ago

Everything about this boat appears to be in " better than expected" condition. She has been well cared for and the boat and all of its accessories/components have been stored in a clean, climate-controlled environment. Stock #311714 Karl Stambaugh Design!! Easy to Haul!! Easy to Sail!! Everything Needed to Go Sailing is Included!! BONUS OFFERING!!! The owner of this boat had dozens of books on sailing and sailboat maintenance. Those will be included in the sale of this vessel. This Karl Stambaugh-designed WINDWARD 28 is a cruising version of her successful shallow draft sisters. She is a gaff-rigged ketch and she has generous accommodations in her cabin. Her arrangement is a V-berth forward, galley to port, storage to starboard, two settees, and a porta-potty to pull out from under the bridge deck. Her self-bailing cockpit is large enough for family and friends to spread out. Storage is provided in the lazaret and under the cockpit seats. When not under sail she is powered by a 2006 Tohatsu 6 HP four-stroke engine. She will sail upright and go to windward well as her name indicates. The split ketch gaff rig is easy to handle and reduces easily when white caps appear. Her hull construction is glue and screw 1/2" plywood and epoxy on plywood bulkheads and straight frames. Her sails are in good condition and she comes with all running rigging and the original build plans. She rides on a 2008 aluminum dual axle trailer made by Advanced Boat Trailers of Jacksonville, FL and custom-made for this boat. Since new, when not in the water, this boat has been stored in a climate-controlled inside storage building built specifically for this boat. Bottom line...the owner of this boat had her custom built and he loved her and cared for her like an only child. Check her out!! You will be amazed and impressed!! Reason for selling is owner passed.

1974 Luger Leeward sailboat

Enola, Pennsylvania

Posted Over 1 Month

fiberglass sloop with Holsclaw trailer.  includes mainsail, jib, genoa fib and all rigging. sails like new. 28" cabin area good for equipment storage. trailer has good tires, 1 7/8" ball

1977 MacGregor 25 Sailboat

Spanaway, Washington

25' MacGregor Venture wailer, with Retractable Keel, Trailer, Bimini Pop-Top, 18" draft, large cockpit, large cabin, sleeps 5, sink, Ice box, table, porta-potty, Fresh Water used boat, 7'6" beam, large cockpit area, sleeps 5, Sails in good condition. Main, Jib, Genoa with sailbagsSpecifications: Length 24'11", beam 7'11", weight 2100 lbs., 18' draft with keel up/ 5'8" keel down, Cockpit length 6'7", mast length 28', Pop-Top Canvas/Window, keel winch replaced and in good working condition, kick up rudder. 2 outboard mounts, swim ladder For additional information, reply to this ad or see: http://www.vflyer.com/home/crlk?id=294379005&ps=16 vFlyer ID: 294379005

1996 Catalina 28

Traverse City, Michigan

Make Catalina

Category Sailboats

1996 Catalina 28 She is a MK II Tall Rig two owner fresh water sailboat, cruised mostly in Northern Lake Michigan.  Currently stored for the winter with a custom fit winter cover. Trailer is excluded from the sale.

Wood Boat 1961 HALLBERG RASSY P-28 Project With Trailer PRICE REDUCTION

Tekonsha, Michigan

Make HALLBERG RASSY

Category Cruiser Motorcycles

Length 28.0

THIS IS THE LAST TIME OFFERED ON E-BAY AND SHE WONT BE BACK!!!MAKE YOUR BEST OFFER!!!FOR MORE INFO GO TO:http://www.hallberg-rassy.com/P28/P-28.shtmlALSO CHECK OUT THESE PHOTOS OF ANOTHER P-28 THAT WAS IN A LOT WORSE CONDITION THAN MINE!!! BUT HE MADE HER BEAUTIFUL AGAIN!!! THANKS MIKE!!! http://www.flickr.com/photos/ THIS COULD BE YOUR CHANCE OF A LIFETIME TO OWN AND RESTORE A CLASSIC SWEDISH BUILT WOODEN SAILBOAT!!! TRAILER IS INCLUDED TO EASLY MOVE THIS BOAT AROUND TO YOUR WORKSHOP WITHOUT PAYING A MOVER!!! BOAT CAN BE PICKED UP AT MY LOCATION WITH A 3/4 TON TRUCK AND TAKEN TO YOUR LOCATION WITH NO NEED TO HIRE A MOVING COMPANY!! THIS ALONE WILL SAVE YOU HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS!!! THERE IS A SAILBOAT TRAILER ON E-BAY RIGHT NOW ITEM NUMBER 201096224266 PLEASE CUT AND PASTE NUMBER ON E-BAY SEARCH AND SEE WHAT THIS SELLER HAS TO SAY ABOUT THE BENEFIT'S OF HAVING YOUR BOAT ON A TRAILER!!! THIS TRAILER IS WORTH THE "BUY IT NOW" PRICE!!! SAILBOAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED AS FREE!!! THE SAILBOAT TRAILER IS A WELL BUILT HEAVY DUTY TANDAM AXEL TRAILER WITH TIRES THAT HAVE EXCELLENT TREAD THAT HAVE FEW MILES,NEW TONGE JACK, 2'' BALL AND WORKING LIGHTS AND FRONT AXEL BREAKS THAT CAN BE PULLED ANYWHERE WITH A 3/4 TON TRUCK!!! (SEE PHOTOS) a few questions asked about trailer 1-Does the trailer have working brakes? Yes 1 axel Electric 2-Do the lights work? Yes 3-What size Wight are the axles? Rear #3500 Front w/Brakes #3500 4-How long is the Bed on the trailer? Bed is 18 Ft Long 5-How wide is the trailer? Overall is 8 Feet 6-How long is the trailer over all length? 25 Ft. DONT PASS UP THIS CHANCE TO OWN A PIECE OF SAILING HISTORY!!! 1961 HALLBERG RASSY P-28 FROM CALIFORNIA'S MIRRO BAY. HAS SEEN BETTER DAYS BUT IS IN SOLID SHAPE AND COULD BE RESTORED BY THE RIGHT CRAFTSMAN. THIS BOAT HAS BEEN STORED INSIDE FOR YEARS!!! THIS CLASSIC BOAT HAS HAD A LOT WORK DONE BY THE PREVIOUS OWNER BUT HE PASSED AWAY BEFORE HE COULD FINISH IT. THE HULL IS AFRICAN MAHOGANY OVER WHITE OAK FRAMES IT NEEDS REPLACEMENT OF AT LEAST THE BOTTOM 4 PLANKS BELOW THE WATERLINE ON EACH SIDE ,LOOK CLOSELY AT PHOTOS!!! I HAVE ALL THE PLANKS FOR THE PORT SIDE AND SOME OF THE PLANKS FOR THE OTHER SIDE TO USE AS PATTERNS FOR CUTTING AND SHAPEING NEW PLANKS!!! THESE PLANKS ARE NOT USABLE!!! THE PREVIOUS OWNER HAS CUT OFF THE BOTTOM SECTION OF ALL FRAMES AND SCARFED IN NEW WHITE OAK FRAME ENDS AND EPOXYED IN WITH THE WEST SYSTEM THICKEND EPOXY, IT LOOKS TO BE A PRETTY GOOD JOB,THEY ARE NOT SISTERED BUT SCARFED IN!!! THERE DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE ANY STRUCTRAL ROT IN THIS BOAT!!! THE COCKPIT LOOKS TO BE IN ROUGH SHAPE BUT SEEMS STRUCTRULY SOUND EXCEPT FOR THE FLOOR IT WILL NEED REPLACED (SEE PHOTO'S) THERE IS LITTLE OF THE INTERIOR LEFT IN THE MAIN CABIN SO THIS LEAVES THE INTERIOR A BLANK CANVAS TO DESIGN ANY WAY YOU WANT!!! THE VEE BIRTH IS PRETTY MUCH STOCK AND IN VERY GOOD CONDITION SEE PHOTO #3 THE DECKS HAVE BEEN COVERED A NON-SKID AND SEEM TO BE VERY SOLID! (SEE PHOTOS) THE ENGINE IS A YANMAR YSB-8 HP WITH FOWARD AND REVERSE THE MOTOR IS STUCK FROM SITTING,BUT DOES NOT SEEM TO BE DAMAGED IT IS CURRENTLY OUT OF THE BOAT, COMPLETE WITH STARTER,ALT,WATER PUMP AND DRIVE UNIT WITH FOWARD AND REVERSE! (SEE PHOTOS INCLUDES SAILS Main and Jib !!! ALUMINUM MAST (NOT ORIGINAL) WITH MASSIVE RIGGING AND ALL TURNBUCKLES AND MAST STEP!!! ORIGINAL SITKA SPRUSE WOOD BOOM, WINCHES, GLASS COVERED RUDDER AND EVERY THING I HAVE FOR THE BOAT IS ALSO INCLUDED!!! I HAVE SIGNED OFF CALIFORNIA TITLE FROM P.O. FEEL FREE TO ASK ANY ??? LAST 2 PHOTO'S ARE AD PHOTO'S AND NOT OF THIS BOAT!!! Just for reference of what she could be DEPOSIT IS NONREFUNDABLE!!! WHY WOULD IT BE!!! "GO SEADOGS" "MAKE OFFER" YA NEVER KNOW !!!

Rhodes Bantam #1381 Sailboat, 14.5 ft. Mahogany. Restored 2008

Island, Kentucky

Length 14.5

Rhodes Bantam 14-foot of Honduran mahogany and African sapele plywood. A classic racing dinghy with lovely bronze hardware and wooden mast. Hull #1381, designed by Phillip Rhodes and built 2/1966 by Bill Kallusch Boats of Sodus Point N.Y.. This boat saw several years at Sodus bay (Lake Ontario) in New York. Later she was moved to Lake Champlain in Vermont for many years. She has sailed Kentucky Lake since 2006, infrequently of late due to owner being 28 years older than the boat... Restoration was completed in early 2008 included replacement of nearly all of the structural mahogany. Full treatment with CPES epoxy and 3M-5200 sealant allows the prospect of another 49 years of service. Three sails: main, jib and spinnaker all in excellent condition. Also included is a galvanized trailer. Boat is complete and ready to sail beautifully. Built for crew of two, with solo sailing accommodated. Hull is varnished inside and painted outside. The boat can be easily trailed as one person can lift and step the wooden mast. A great performing boat with beautiful traditional touches.

1983 Northwest 28

Olympia, Washington

NorthWest 28 Sailboat and Trailer Will consider trade for MacGregor 26X. I love the boat but it does not fit into our current life style. I am looking for a trailer able 25' to 27' swing keel sailboat such as MacGregor or Catalina. HULL Fin Keel 1983 Hand laid Fiberglass double hull with core- Built by Gary Lundy - Northwest Yacht Constructors LLC - Gorst Washington Built This sailboat was built as a hull kit only 5 were built. The original purchaser worked on it for years got sick and died. I purchased it from an estate auction and spent 2 years finishing it. It was surveyed in Aug. 2009 and the first launch was May 2010. LOA . 27 feet 75 in Beam . 9 feet in Draft . 4 feet 10 in Displacement . 8000 lbs Ballast . 3200 lbs. Skag and Rudder Wheel Helm RIGGING Masthead Sloop LWL . 23' - LOA 27' 8" Sail Area 400 sq. ft. Aluminum mast Deck-stepped Main sail CDI FF6 Roller Furler 135 Genoa All Lines run to cockpit for easy single handed sailing MOTOR Tohatsu 18 hp Runs great. Gas Setup for inboard motor if you desire. Has 1 1/4 in. shaft with drip less seal. The first year I ran a 23HP diesel engine. Wife did not like the hull vibration so I removed the diesel and installed an 18HP Tohatsu electric start with remote controls. Engine raises and lowers on a track. GALLEY / CABIN Sink with electric pump 2 burner alcohol cook top 12V refrigerator V- berth Single berth aft Port Enclosed head with porta potty GROUND TACKLE Danforth anchor on double aluminum rollers ELECTRICAL Autohelm 2000 . autopilot (wheel steering) 1 starter battery (1 1/2 years old) 1 house battery (1 1/2 years old) 600 foot Depth Sounder Amplifier that I plug in my I Touch into and outdoor speakers Wind Speed and Direction tied to Autohelm. 12V Winch mast raising / lowering system with tri-pod gin pole and accessories that allows raising and lowering the mast in as little as 30 minutes. TRAILER Comes with double axle with mounting for third axle if desired. It has 9 stands which allow raising and lowering of combinations of stands to allow access to all parts of the hull for painting. I stored the boat in my driveway in the off seasons allowing me access to my shop while working on the boat. Sails beautifully. Easily single handed. Must be seen and sailed to be appreciated.

American Mariner 8 Meter sailboat with diesel engine-very good condition

Leesburg, Florida

Make American Mariner

Length 26.9

For sale is a 1979 American Mariner sailboat. Fixed keel, shoal draft (28 in.) with 1983 Yanmar 1GM diesel. Engine added in 2012 after purchase from another marina. Pedestal steering, roller furling, new binimi, new main, 130% genoa in very good condition. All cabin ports rebuilt and replaced. New cabin lighting, new cabin bunk cushions, new main cover. Many extras. Boat extensively refurbished in 2013. Comes with tandem axle trailer with new hydraulic disc brakes added in 2014. Boat has clear Florida title and trailer has current Florida registration. Boat is insured for liability coverage currently through Boat U.S. Reasonable transportation can be arranged at added cost. Email for details.

1961 HALLBERG RASSY P-28 WOOD BOAT

The P-28 was built during 1955 - 1973 up to construction number 536.The P-28 has been built in many different versions. In the beginning all hulls and superstructures were built in mahogany and had fractional rigging. At the end of the 50s a masthead rig replaced the fractional rig and the design of the main window was improved to two individual windows. As early as 1963 the revolutionary fiberglass hull was introduced. At the same time the hull was made a bit wider. During an overlapping period 1963-1966 there was a choice between wooden hull and fiberglass hull.This hull is wood!!! The biggest markets for the P-28 were USA and Sweden. Most of the first 100 boats were sold to the USA. The P 28 is still today a sought after model. THIS COULD BE YOUR CHANCE OF A LIFETIME TO OWN AND RESTORE A CLASSIC SWEDISH BUILT WOODEN SAILBOAT!!! TRAILER IS INCLUDED TO EASLY MOVE THIS BOAT AROUND TO YOUR WORKSHOP WITHOUT PAYING A MOVER!!! BOAT CAN BE PICKED UP AT MY LOCATION WITH A 3/4 TON TRUCK AND TAKEN TO YOUR LOCATION WITH NO NEED TO HIRE A MOVING COMPANY!! THIS ALONE WILL SAVE YOU HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS!!! THERE IS A SAILBOAT TRAILER ON E-BAY RIGHT NOW ITEM NUMBER 201096224266 PLEASE CUT AND PASTE NUMBER ON E-BAY SEARCH AND SEE WHAT THIS SELLER HAS TO SAY ABOUT THE BENEFIT'S OF HAVING YOUR BOAT ON A TRAILER!!! THIS TRAILER IS WORTH THE OPENING BID PRICE!!! SAILBOAT IS FREE!!! THE SAILBOAT TRAILER IS A WELL BUILT HEAVY DUTY TANDAM AXEL TRAILER WITH TIRES THAT HAVE EXCELLENT TREAD THAT HAVE VERY FEW MILES. 2'' BALL AND WORKING LIGHTS AND FRONT AXEL BREAKS THAT CAN BE PULLED ANYWHERE WITH A 3/4 TON TRUCK!!! (SEE PHOTOS) a few questions asked about trailer 1-Does the trailer have working brakes? Yes 1 axel Electric 2-Do the lights work? Yes 3-What size Wight are the axles? Rear #3500 Front w/Brakes #3500 4-How long is the Bed on the trailer? Bed is 18 Ft Long 5-How wide is the trailer? Overall is 8 Feet 6-How long is the trailer over all length? 25 Ft. DONT PASS UP THIS CHANCE TO OWN A PIECE OF SAILING HISTORY!!! 1961 HALLBERG RASSY P-28 FROM CALIFORNIA'S MIRRO BAY. HAS SEEN BETTER DAYS BUT IS IN SOLID SHAPE AND COULD BE RESTORED BY THE RIGHT CRAFTSMAN. THIS BOAT HAS BEEN STORED INSIDE FOR YEARS!!! THIS CLASSIC BOAT HAS HAD A LOT WORK DONE BY THE PREVIOUS OWNER BUT HE PASSED AWAY BEFORE HE COULD FINISH IT. THE HULL IS AFRICAN MAHOGANY OVER WHITE OAK FRAMES IT NEEDS REPLACEMENT OF AT LEAST THE BOTTOM 4 PLANKS BELOW THE WATERLINE ON EACH SIDE ,LOOK CLOSELY AT PHOTOS!!! I HAVE ALL THE PLANKS FOR THE PORT SIDE AND SOME OF THE PLANKS FOR THE OTHER SIDE TO USE AS PATTERNS FOR CUTTING AND SHAPEING NEW PLANKS!!! THESE PLANKS ARE NOT USABLE!!! THE COCKPIT LOOKS TO BE IN GOOD SHAPE AND SEEMS STRUCTRULY SOUND EXCEPT FOR THE FLOOR IT WILL NEED REPLACED (SEE PHOTO'S) THERE IS LITTLE OF THE INTERIOR LEFT IN THE MAIN CABIN SO THIS LEAVES THE INTERIOR A BLANK CANVAS TO DESIGN ANY WAY YOU WANT! THE VEE BIRTH IS PRETTY MUCH STOCK AND IN VERY GOOD CONDITION SEE PHOTO #3 THE DECKS HAVE BEEN COVERED WITH GLASS AND NON-SKID AND ARE VERY SOLID! (SEE PHOTOS) THE ENGINE IS A YANMAR YSB-8 HP WITH FOWARD AND REVERSE THE MOTOR IS STUCK FROM SITTING,BUT DOES NOT SEEM TO BE DAMAGED IT IS CURRENTLY OUT OF THE BOAT, COMPLETE WITH STARTER,ALT,WATER PUMP AND DRIVE UNIT WITH FOWARD AND REVERSE! (SEE PHOTOS INCLUDES SAILS, ALUMINUM MAST (NOT ORIGINAL) WITH MASSIVE RIGGING AND ALL TURNBUCKLES,ORIGINAL SITKA SPRUSE WOOD BOOM, WINCHES, GLASS COVERED RUDDER AND WOOD TILLER EVERY THING I HAVE FOR THE BOAT IS ALSO INCLUDED. I HAVE SIGNED OFF CALIFORNIA TITLE FROM P.O. FEEL FREE TO ASK ANY ??? NEED MORE PHOTOS ASK!!! LAST 2 PHOTO'S ARE AD PHOTO'S AND NOT OF THIS BOAT!!! Just for reference of what she could be $500.00 DEPOSIT IS NONREFUNDABLE "GO SEADOGS" "MAKE OFFER" YA NEVER KNOW !!!

1986 25 fT. McGregor Sail Boat with Trailer

Pottstown, Pennsylvania

FOR SALE 1986 25 FOOT McGREGOR SAIL BOAT WITH MOTOR AND TRAILOR THIS IS A ONE OWNER BOAT. WAS PURCHASED NEW BY SELLER IN 1986 AND USED ONLY BY SELLER. THIS BOAT IS 28 YEARS OLD, SOMEWHAT WELL KEPT, SEAWORTHY, NEVER IN AN ACCIDENT, AND NEVER HAD A HOLE. USED IN SALT AND FRESH WATER. WAS REPAINTED BY OWNER WITH MATCHING FACTORY COLORS SEVERAL YEARS AGO. 9.9 MOTOR INCLUDED. TRAILER IS INCLUDED AND WAS PURCHASED NEW WITH BOAT. ALSO INCLUDED IS A MAIN SAIL, JIB, AND A RAINBOW GENOA SPECIAL MADE FOR THIS BOAT. INTERIOR HAS BERTS FOR FIVE PEOPLE, DOORED TOILET AREA, AND A FOUR PERSON DINETTE THAT CONVERTS TO A DOUBLE BERTH. THERE IS ALSO A BUILT IN ICE CHEST. A GREAT STARTER FOR THE NOVICE OR A NICE STEP UP FOR SOMEONE LOOKING TO SEE IF A BIGGER SAILBOAT IS RIGHT FOR THEM READY FOR FUN, JUST ADD YOU AND SOME WATER THANK YOU FOR LOOKING!!!!! PLEASE EMAIL ANY QUESTIONS. It may be a day or 2 to respond as I am listing this for my Grandfather.

1977 Ericson Yachts 27

Middle River, Maryland

Make Ericson Yachts

Category Sloop

This boat is in good condition for its age, very clean and has some nice features that all work as designed as per the seller. New Bimini and shades, Charm City Canvas (5/28/19, 5/24/21). New Mainsail cover, Charm City Canvas (5/24/21). New Winter cover, Charm City Canvas (5/24/21). Motor not metered so do not know actual hours. Motor is mid 80s. Stock #380823 Beautiful Classic Ericson with trailer and major interior refit Clean Sailboat!! Come take a look!! A great sailboat for a weekend cruise around the bay. This 1977 Ericson 27 designed by Bruce King, is very clean and ready for a new sailor to take her out. You have the ability to sleep four with a cold box and refrigerator, to store snacks and frosty beverages. You will appreciate the clean interior that has replaced DC wiring with the proper connections. Main cabin finished with Red Oak and original Mahogany; full head clearance; filled with light, with expert joinery. Simply beautiful. This boat also has a trailer which is hard to find for a sailboat. Make an offer today!! Reason for selling is sellers are done with boating for now.

LOOKING TO TRADE OR SELL

Salem, Oregon

Make BAYLINER

Model MOTORYACHT SERIES 2850 CONTESSA SEDAN BRDG

Category Flybridge Boats

Length 28.5

I am wanting to sell or trade my 1982 Bayliner Contessa Flybridge boat and trailer for either cash, or trade for a 32ft or larger sailboat, travel trailer, fifth wheel or motorhome. My boat is 28.5 feet not including the bow sprit or swim step. I've remodeled the kitchen installing a propane three burner stove and oven, granite countertop, two sided stainless steel sink, high rise faucet and ceramic tile. Also new kitchen flooring. Has new carpet though out the cabin. New electric toilet. All new GFI electrical outlets in kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. Brand new 586 HP 454 big block motor with 70 hours on it. Volvo Penta 280 outdrive rebuilt in 2012. I have it moored in Newport with the slip paid up until May, 2016. I am looking for a minimum of 30 feet with slides RV. My boat is turn key and ready to go so I expect the same on the RV or trailers. Not looking for projects of any kind. Trailer not for sale alone. No paypal, no shippers and dealer trades will be welcome to discuss. Give me a call if interested and I can tell you more about it...

2000 Hobie Cat Wave

Claremore, Oklahoma

2000 Hobie Cat Wave The Hobie Wave is an easy- to-sail, easy-to-rig speedster that will have you smiling. Fun for the family and exciting for the juniors while forgiving enough for the newly initiated, the Hobie Wave is the ideal must-go-sailing-now catamaran. Roto-molded construction makes the wave a very strong yet light weight sailboat. comes with main and jib. Mast float, Hobie Toybox and Galvanized trailer. This is a lake ready rig in great shape. Easy to sail and set up. SPECIFICATIONS Crew: 1-4 Length: 13' / 3.96 m Beam: 7' / 2.13 m Capacity: 800 lbs / 362 kg Weight: 245 lbs / 111 kg Draft w/ Rudder Up: 11" / 0.28 m Mast Length: 20' / 6.09 m Sail Area: 95 sq ft / 9.0 m2 Hull Construction: Rotomolded Polyethylene - Hobie Wave, Great shape, with a trailer and toy box.

1986 Macgregor 25

Port Orange, Florida

Private Seller (386) 761-2197 Photos Photo 1 Photo 2 Photo 3 Photo 4 Photo 5 Photo 6 Photo 7 Photo 8 Photo 9 Photo 10 Photo 11 Close Request Information * Name First Name * Email Telephone (optional) Best Time to Contact Anytime Morning Mid-day Evening Question/Comments (optional) Shop Safely: Protect Your Money. By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use. Contact Seller 1986 Macgregor 25, 1986 MACGREGOR 25 SAILBOAT, MOTOR & TRAILERIf you like to trailer and go week-ender this is your boat, no slip fees, sailboat ready to sail and trailer ready to roll, Sliding hatch, Pop-up top for standing room in the cabin and fully-windowed camper cover adds an extra dimension of livability to extended cruising. The boat weighs 2100 pounds empty, so it can be towed by a variety of vehicles. bow rail, 15lb danforth anchor, chain and line. Running rigging complete and all good. Coast guard required safety equipment; fire extinguisher & life vests. Sleeps 6 per MacGregor specs, I say more like 3 adults or 2 adults and 3 kidsThis cabin-class sailboat is not a project boat. It has had no major damage, leaks nor repairs. It has been well maintained as original and is ready to sail. You will not find a more economical way to sail than trailer sailing. I am selling because of my age and health conditions.BOAT HULL: Hull in great shape. No gel coat cracks or blisters. The Mac 25 hulls are molded using hand laid up fiberglass cloth rather than the sprayed on glass fiber used by most boat builders. With swing keel up, has only 18" draft so it's perfect for shallow Florida waterways. With keel down the draft is 5'5". Storage hatch in cockpit. All hardware is stainless steel and woodwork trim is teak.CABIN: The cabin interior is clean and in great condition with dinette that folds down to make a bed, cushions for all areas, large front V-birth, slide-out galley with sink, private head with port-a-potty,ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS: Navigation lights on stern, mast and bow, cabin lights, automatic bilge pump (hve never seen water in bilge), depth/fish finder, VHF ship-to-shore radio and mast top antennae, am/fm stereo & speakers, 12v switch/fuse panel, all rewired with Marine grade wiring, 110 v input plug in cockpit for battery charger and 12v accessory plug in cabin. Motor has battery-charging system.SAILS & RIGGING: All stainless standing rigging with turnbuckles, handrails, Rear stanchion and lifelines and 2 winches, easy mast raising, Main and jib sails in good condition.OUTBOARD MOTOR: 1987 8 hp long shaft Johnson Sailmaster and six gallon fuel tank. Recently tuned and serviced. Low hours. Cranks easy and Runs Strong. Mounted on hinged, stainless steel outboard bracket to raise and lower vertically.TRAILER: Original factory trailer is in like new condition, rust free, good tires and spare, bearing buddies, winch and jacks and recently updated with zinc coating, new carpet on bunks, new wiring and new tail lights.MACGREGOR 25 SPECS: Length 24'11", Beam 7' 11", Weight 2100 pounds, Sail area Main and Jib 236 sq. ft., Number of Berths 5, Outboard power-max 10 hp, Cockpit 6'7",Mast Length 28'. $4525, 3867612197 Be sure: Get a boat history report|Finance this boat|Get an insurance quote|

1976 C-Dory sloop

St Petersburg, Florida

1976 C-Dory sloop,Cape Dory 28 The Blue Water Family Sailboat 1976Original Equipment:Original Manual by Cape Dory 8 Bronze Ports, Bronze jib winch standsBronze Thru hulls= stand the test of timeThis vessel is the clean boat as it came from the factory; ready for cruising and your personal touches, not a project boat nor was it junked up by poor workmanship. It passes moisture metering on deck , no blisters below. There is something to appreciate in a design and construction that has stood the tests of time.The below list are the refits, manufacture and $ spent on this vessel :I have Bills of purchases to document upgrades where notedRIGGING:Mast by JSI in St. Petersburg with stout spreaders, $3138Mast Winches two #10 single speed at $ 125 eachBoom by Schaffer with reef lines, $1212Jib Roller by ProFurl 9/32 , $ 1257 Standing Rigging, Turnbuckles all upgrades $1160 Chainplates upgraded from original epoxy reinforced hull inside then new polished vee shaped SS chainplate brackets through bolted to SS backing plates on outside side of hull, connects to original deck pad eye chainplate $850Blocks- Jib are Schaffer Genoa blocks on toe rail track, Main sheet is end of boom triangle with new Garhauers, Boom Vang is Garhauer fiddle block $640TOPSIDES:Lewmar #16 Self-Tail Winches mounted on bronze stands $1210Aluminum Hatches forward and midships by Bomar polished bright, white acrylic, gaskets and bedding compound $360 eachWhaler gusher manual bilge pump flush mount on cockpit bulkhead $87SAILS: Main new crisp condition by Blue Water 6.53 oz cloth, two reefs, $1463 Jib new crisp condition, 6.53 oz, foam luff, cross cut, with sunbrella sun shield, $1293ELECTRONICS:GPS by Garman # 182/232 Chart Plotting Receiver VHF by Standard Horizon model Intrepid LE GX 1265S with Shakespere mast antenna Depth and Speedo by Standard Horizon SL 45Stereo by Standard Horizon model MST 660Speakers by Bose model 151 Environmental speakersELECTRICAL:Brass cabin lights converted to LEDMast head tricolorPLUMBING:Head by Wilcox Crittenden model 1460 C Headmate, 6 gallon poly holding tank, deck pumpout, Y valve.ANCHOR: 25 lb CQR Anchor, 100 triple twist and chainENGINE:1983 Volvo MS2 18hp Diesel rebuild 1998Salt water cooling, Freshwater flushed after each use, I start it monthly1 SS shaft $ 270, cutlass $56, stuffing box $56 battery boxes for four group 27 batteriesTRAILER: Aluminum I Beam, Twin axle, 16 steel rims, with steel cradle 6 acme thread pads and bow vee,new 2 5/16 coupler and chains, tongue jack. The best Hurricane insurance policy you can have!Asking $14,000Will sell with or without the Trailer , with or without the gear of your choice $14000, 7274029900

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Kokopelli Trailer | 26/28-7000 Tandem Axle w/ Brakes

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PRE-DELIVERY INSPECTION FEE INCLUDES: 

• Torque and tighten all hardware
• Set of transom strap tie-downs and safety pun for the coupler

Trailer Fitting and Tailoring Services: If you would like us to adjust the bunks and winch post to your specific boat, we offer this service. This may entail specialized equipment such as forklifts and lifting slings, or an in-water adjustment in some cases. Please ask a sales associate for details.

Trailer Specifications

• Boat Hull Length: 26'-28'
• Axles: Tandem (2)
• l-Beam Size: 6.5"x 4"
• Weight Capacity: 5,880 lbs
• Tire Size: ST205/75R15D
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 7,000 lbs
• Kokopelli Brand Warranty

Additional Prep/DMV Info

Dealer Engine Prep is required to validate the warranty and ensure a working engine. Prep includes completing a full Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) checklist, test-run performed in a tank for quality assurance, and re-crating for shipment. Outboards picked up in-store may be stand-alone and no longer in the box or crate.

Pre-Delivery Inspection

Pre-delivery Inspection is required to validate the warranty and includes the necessary services & products used on each new vessel to ensure quality performance prior to delivery.

For rigged vessels: Boat Specialists will install a deep cycle marine battery, rig all steering components, and complete an electrical and systems check. A full system check includes filling the motor with oil, fluids, and fuel, then a test run performed in a tank for quality assurance.

Once everything is tuned and prepared, a sea trial is performed to achieve the ideal RPM-to-top-speed ratio, ensuring the boat gets on plane properly and all systems operate on water. Afterward, full detail is performed on the exterior, deck, and hull to be turn-key ready for the customer.

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Biggest Trailerable Sailboats

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

Many sailboats up to about 27 feet in length can be trailered safely on American roads. These vessels are limited by weight, beam, and overall height.

In this article, we'll go over ten of the best large trailerable sailboats on the market. These vessels feature comfortable cabins, excellent sailing characteristics, and they all meet the requirements for towing on U.S. highways.

The best and largest trailerable sailboats are the Cal 20, the Catalina 22, the O'Day 240, The Islander 24, the Moore 24, the Cal 25, the Helms 25, the MacGregor 26, and the Nor'Sea 27. Most of these vessels can be towed behind a well-equipped truck or SUV.

We sourced information and vessel specifications for this article from sailboat manufacturers and record books. We also considered the opinions of sailors who own these vessels and sail them regularly.

Table of contents

What Makes a Sailboat Trailerable?

Trailerable sailboats must meet certain requirements in order to operate on American roads. The primary limitations are width (beam), as the vessel and its trailer must fit in regular traffic lanes and through tunnels. Another consideration is weight, as the vessel should be light enough to be towed by a 3/4 ton or 1-ton pickup truck.

Generally speaking, there's not a specific limit to boat weight in order to be towed. That said, most single and tandem-axle trailers can't exceed about 3,300 pounds per axle. With that in mind, the upper limit for a trailerable sailboat is around 7,000 to 8,000 pounds.

Keel type is an important factor to consider, as it determines how high off the ground the boat has to ride on the trailer. The majority of trailerable sailboats have a centerboard or swing keel that retracts for towing and beaching. Some vessels have shorter displacement keels or fin keels.

The maximum allowable for a trailerable sailboat is 8 ft 6 in. This is because these dimensions are the maximum limit for standard trailers on American roads. A larger boat can be transported on the road, but only as an oversize load.

In practice, very few trailerable sailboats have a beam of exactly 8 ft 6 in. The majority of large trailerable sailboats have a beam of between 7 1/2 ft and 8 ft 3 in. This makes it easier to negotiate tunnels and tighter traffic lanes.

Overall Length

The maximum trailer length for standard trailers is 65 ft, but it's nearly impossible for a trailerable sailboat of this length to meet the width requirements. In practice, the longest trailerable sailboats are around 30 ft in length or shorter. The average is about 20 to 25 ft.

In most states, the maximum height for a trailer load is 14 ft. This necessitates that the mast folds down and that the keel and vessel height combined doesn't exceed 14 ft. You must also take into account the height of the trailer, as a tall boat may not be able to clear highway overpasses.

10 Largest Trailerable Sailboats

Trailerable sailboats come in all shapes and sizes, including some large and roomy configurations. The vessels we chose range in length from 19 ft to 27 ft, and they offer the best accommodations on the market. Here are ten of the best large trailerable sailboats.

1. West Wight Potter 19

It's impossible to write an article about trailerable sailboats without mentioning the West Wight Potter 19. This vessel is perhaps the best and most capable in its class, and it offers surprisingly comfortable accommodations for a lightweight trailerable sailboat.

The West Wight Potter 19 is easy to sail fast and features a roomy cabin with a sink and space for a head. It's considered a pocket Cruiser, and it is very popular in coastal areas. Due to its lightweight construction, this fiberglass sailboat is trailerable behind an SUV or half-ton pickup.

The West Wight Potter 19 has positive buoyancy material throughout the whole, making it effectively unsinkable. Additionally, the mast and rigging collapse and set up in minutes. These vessels were produced up until recently, so they're common on the used market.

• Lightweight
• Rigs up fast
• Roomy cabin
• Relatively slow

The Cal 20 has been around for decades, and this capable racing boat is ideal the coastal cruising and sailing in semi-protected waters. That said, it's also quite seaworthy, as several have participated in TransPac races between San Francisco and Hawaii.

The Cal 20 is known for its low-profile cabin and easy trailering. At 20 ft in length overall, the Cal 20 is well within limits for trailering on American roads. While not the lightest trailerable sailboat on the list, a well-equipped pickup truck should tow it without issues.

The Cal 20 isn't the boat to choose if you're looking for the most spacious accommodations. That said, the cabin is functional, and the boat excels in handling. It's fast, safe, and agile, thanks to its long and thin profile. It's also a joy to sail in all kinds of weather conditions.

• Easy to sail
• Stable in high winds
• Spartan cabin
• Deep draft from the fixed keel

3. Catalina 22

The Catalina 22 is one of the most famous large trailerable sailboats ever built. It's one of Catalina's most popular models, and it was a big hit in the 1970s and 1980s. The Catalina 22 has a spacious and thoughtfully designed cabin with a wide companionway and a comfortable V-berth.

The Catalina 22 is a centerboard boat. This means that the keel retracts into the hull for trailering and lowers down easily using a system block-and-tackle or a crank. The vessel is 7.67 feet wide, making it easy to tow on typical American highways.

The vessel is still produced today, and over 15,000 have been built since 1969. This makes it one of the most popular sailboats ever, and hundreds are available on the used market for reasonable prices. Thanks to its superior handling and excellent design, the Catalina 22 is one of the best large trailerable sailboats available.

• Well-designed cabin
• Affordable iconic sailboat
• Minimal headroom
• Finicky companionway hatch

4. O'Day 240

The O'Day 240 is one of the more seagoing trailerable sailboats on our list. It's beamy and stable, and it handles well in rougher weather conditions. It has a surprisingly comfortable cabin for its size and measures just 24 feet in length overall.

The vessel's wide beam contributes to its stability. However, with a width of 8 ft 3 in, the O'Day 240 approaches the upper limit of trailerable dimensions. The vessel weighs more than comparably sized boats, so you'll need a more powerful vehicle to tow it.

The cabin of the O'Day 240 stands out. It features a V-berth, berthing aft, a galley, and space for a head. There's ample headroom throughout the cabin, which makes the O'Day 240 ideal for extended coastal cruising.

• Stable Spacious cabin
• May be too wide for comfortable trailering
• Unusual cabin design

5. Islander 24

Islander is known for its larger sailboats (28 feet and larger), though it has produced a few excellent trailerable models. We chose the trailerable Islander 24, as it's known in the sailing community for its speed, comfort, and easy handling.

The phrase "they don't build them like they used to" applies to the Islander 24. When this vessel was designed in the early 1960s, boat manufacturers used more fiberglass and produced thicker hulls. This practice is costlier and made the boat weigh more. But it produced stronger vessels that last much longer than their flimsier contemporaries.

This fiberglass sailboat is thoughtfully designed and is well-suited for coastal cruising in the 21st century. It features stronger construction than similar models, and its keel design encourages stable and comfortable sailing.

• Strong hull and deck
• Stiff sailing
• Great windward performance
• Small cabin
• Heavy trailer weight

6. Moore 24

The Moore 24 was the first in a new class of vessels called the ultralight displacement sailboat. It has the handling characteristics have a large keelboat but the dimensions of a coastal cruising trailer-sailer.

From the outside, the flush deck of the Moore 24 looks like it couldn't possibly accommodate a cabin. Closer inspection reveals that the vessel has a roomy cabin that resembles that of much larger boats. It features a galley, a head, a V-berth upfront, and attractive paneling throughout.

The Moore 24 is a pocket cruiser by all definitions. It's

an excellent choice for those looking for a trailerable and seaworthy sailboat. Though a bit taller than some other models, the vessel is still well within limits for on-road transportation.

• Excellent handling
• Large cabin
• Heavier than many other 24-foot sailboats

The Cal 25 is essentially a stretched version of the Cal 20. It features the same basic hull design with the iconic flush deck and streamlined cabin. However, it's faster, offers superior accommodations, and it's more seaworthy.

The Cal 25 is known for its stiff handling characteristics in high winds. This is primarily due to its 1,700-pound lead keel, which keeps it upright and tracking straight. However, this does increase the overall weight of the vessel, which is an even 4,000 pounds dry. Thankfully, this is within the towing capacity of most standard pickup trucks.

The interior of the Cal 25 resembles the cabins of larger boats. In other words, it doesn't feel cramped. There's a large sitting area across from the galley and partitions separating the V-berth from the rest of the cabin. Overall, the Cal 25 is an excellent compact sailboat for racing or cruising.

• Good accommodations
• Marginal headroom in some areas

8. Helms 25

The Helms 25 is a compact vessel with a true swing keel. Unlike a centerboard, which descends through the hull straight down, a swing keel swings down on the hinge and occupies less space inside of the vessel. With the removal of the centerboard trunk, the Helms 25 retains its trailerable properties while freeing up living space in the cabin.

The Helms 25 is long and fast but not particularly tall. It fits well on a trailer, and its rounded hull doesn't pound in choppy water. The cabin is comfortable and features a small but usable galley, a table with two seating areas, a V-berth, and additional berthing aft.

Some versions of the Helms 25 also feature a separate head area between the V-berth and the central living spaces. The Helms 25 strikes the perfect balance between comfort, seaworthiness, and trailerability. It's safe and fun to sail and sells on the used market for affordable prices.

• Spacious cabin
• Long, narrow, and shallow
• Not ideal for offshore sailing
• Too long for some trailers

9. MacGregor 26

The MacGregor 26 is larger and more modern than most of the sailboats on our list. As a result, it takes advantage of recent design developments that make it an excellent large trailer-sailer. At 26 ft overall, the MacGregor 26 is also one of the fastest vessels on our list.

At first glance, the dimensions of the MacGregor 26 seem unusual. The hull shape resembles a bathtub, and the vessel's high profile is notable. These characteristics make it stable and easy to handle, and they also give it exceptional headroom in the cabin.

The McGregor 26 came in numerous configurations, which are designated with letters such as '26D' and '26M.' These include various cabin window orientations, colors, accessories, and interior layouts. Some versions of the MacGregor 26 came with a dual rudder setup, which is uncommon in its size range.

• Modern design
• Excellent headroom
• Unusual shape

10. Nor'Sea 27

The final trailerable sailboat on our list is also the most capable. The Nor'Sea 27 is a true offshore sailboat with accommodations that rival any mid-size cruising sailboat. the Nor'Sea 27 is a full-keel displacement sailboat that's designed for stability and motion comfort. It's one of the beefiest sailboats that still fits on a trailer.

The Nor'Sea 27 features standing headroom throughout the cabin. It has a head, galley, and berthing area forward that converts into a table. The cabin is lined with attractive wood paneling, and the entire vessel has a very high level of fit and finish.

The Nor'Sea 27 is built for cruising, and it's ideal for longer voyages and offshore passages. If you're looking for a true cruising sailboat that stores well on a trailer, you can't go wrong with the NorSea 27. Due to its size and capabilities, you'll need a larger vehicle to trailer this vessel safely.

• Biggest cabin
• Full-size accommodations
• Offshore capable
• Too large for SUV towing
• Slow to rig and disassemble

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7 Best Trailerable Sailboats for Cruising

Many sailors balk at the idea of leaving their boat in the water at a marina. Slip fees are expensive, and maintenance bills get bigger the longer you leave a boat in the water. However, if you want a boat under 30 feet long, there are trailerable sailboats that will fit the bill.

Like any boat purchase, you’ll need to analyze precisely what kind of trailer sailer you want. Will a simple weekend sailboat suffice, or do you really need the best trailerable cruising sailboat you can find? 

Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of the best trailerable sailboat. Plus, we’ll look at how to compare them for your purposes.

Table of Contents

Best trailerable sailboats, easy to launch trailerable sailboats, quick setup time, towing weight, catalina 22/25 “pop-top”, com-pac horizon cat for classic coastal cruising, marshall sanderling — small, portable, classy, west wight potter 19 — the tiny go-anywhere sailboat, seaward 26rk with retractable lead keel, corsair f-24 trimaran – sporty sailing, macgregor 26m — maximum speed meets maximum living space, long-range cruising boats, 7 best trailerable boats – a recap, what’s the best trailerable sailboat for a cruise, trailerable sailboats faqs.

• Catalina 22/25
• Com-Pac Horizon Cat
• Marshall Sanderling
• West Wight Potter 19
• Seaward 26RK
• Corsair F-24 Trimaran
• MacGregor 26M

We’ll get into more detail about each brand in my post today, so hang tight!

What Is a Trailerable Sailboat, Exactly?

For this article, the priorities for a trailerable sailboat are:

• Easy to launch
• Require minimum setup to launch and store
• Lightweight enough to be towed by the average vehicle

Before you can really classify a sailboat as trailerable, you need to evaluate and narrow your search criteria. Truthfully, 50-plus-foot ocean-going sailboats are regularly put on trailers. But that’s done commercially, on a big rig, with special permits for oversized loads, and even led cars.  

That probably isn’t what most people mean when they think of a trailerable sailboat. But what is the priority here, the trailerable part or the sailboat part? Compromises are going to have to be made somewhere. 

If you’re looking at the 20-foot-and-under sailboat crowd, finding a trailerable example should not be hard. Most sailboats this size are designed for trailers anyway since they aren’t the sort of boats people want to pay to leave in a slip year-round.

Things get more interesting when you look at the 20 to 30-foot boats. In this class, there are stout ocean-going cruisers with deep keels and lightweight centerboard trailer sailboats designed from the get-go to be trailered by the average car or SUV. The differences between these boats are night and day.

Sailboats often have a hard time at boat ramps. First, deep keels mean that the trailer must extend farther into the water than the average boat ramp allows. This means the ramp needs to go back far enough, and the trailer tongue needs to be long enough not to swamp the car. 

If you have a boat like this, you’ll need to find the right boat ramps. Unfortunately, not all ramps are created equally. If your boat draws more than two or three feet on the trailer, you’re going to be limited to steep, paved, and high-quality boat ramps. Unfortunately, those aren’t standard features, so your cruising grounds are going to be limited.

Usually, ramps aren’t built steeply because they are often slippery. Your tow vehicle will need excellent traction and torque to pull your fully loaded boat out of a steep ramp. The steeper the ramp, the more trouble you’ll have. 

The alternative to finding steep ramps is to use a trailer tongue extender. This lets you get the trailer into deeper water without swamping the tow vehicle. But it also means that the ramp needs to extend deep enough. Many ramps end abruptly. Allowing your trailer to sink off the edge is an excellent way to get stuck or pop a tire.

Pick a boat as easy to launch and retrieve as a similarly sized powerboat to remove all of these boat ramp problems. The soft chines of most sailboats will always require a little more water, but a swing keel and the hinged rudder raised mean that the boat can sit low on the trailer bunks. That way, you only need one or two feet of water to launch, an easy feat at nearly every boat ramp you can find.

The next consideration for a sailboat to be portable enough to call it “trailerable” is the amount of time it takes to step the mast and get it ready to cruise. 

To accomplish this, you need a mast that can be stepped by a two-person team–maximum. Ideally, it will have some tabernacle hardware to enable one person to do the task for solo sailing.

There is an entire family of pocket cruisers that could ideally fit on trailers. But you won’t find the Fickas or the Falmouth cutters on my list, simply because they aren’t easy to launch or easy to rig. But, of course, they’re also too heavy for most vehicles to tow, which leads us to the final point of excluding them this trailable pocket cruiser’s list.

One of the most significant financial burdens the trailer sailer faces is their tow vehicle. You are all set if you already drive a two-ton dually diesel pickup truck. But if your daily driver is an SUV or light pickup, you need to think long and hard about the math of the towing equation. 

Whatever boat you buy cannot exceed the towing rating limits of your tow vehicle. If you don’t have a tow vehicle, you’ll need to buy one. This will double or triple the cost of getting a trailer sailer in most cases. For the same money, you may want to look at a boat that stays in the water at a traditional boat slip. For the cost of a trailer sailer and a tow vehicle, you can probably step into a nice boat that is larger and more comfortable than any towable.

If you have a tow vehicle, you need a light enough vessel for it to tow. Most modern SUVs tow less than 2,500 pounds. Anything more than 5,000 will require a full-size pickup. Remember that the tow weight isn’t just the boat’s displacement—it’s the empty hull weight, plus the weight of the trailer and any extra gear you need to pack into the boat. 

Finding a vessel that fits these limitations on weight isn’t easy. If the manufacturer’s goal is to make it towable, immediate limits are placed on the materials they can use. This means less seaworthiness since boats are built light and thin. As far as stability goes, lead keels are generally out, and water ballast systems or centerboards might be used instead. It doesn’t mean these boats aren’t safe and fun, but they aren’t designed for rough conditions, crossing oceans, or living on in the water full-time .

7 Best Trailerable Cruising Sailboats

There are more trailerable sailboats out there than you might imagine. Here’s a look at seven popular options of all shapes and sizes to give you a taste of what you might want to take to sea.

The boats here are selected for their storage and living space. With these boats and a little outfitting, you can spend weeks gunk-holing in the Chesapeake Bay or island hopping the Bahamas. If you broaden your scope to include daysailers with no cabin space, there are countless more options.

One of the worst parts of a small trailerable sailboat or pocket cruiser is the lack of stand-up headroom. One clever solution that you’ll find on some weekend sailboat types is the pop-top. 

The pop-top is simply an area around the companionway hatch that extends upward on struts. So when you’re at the dock or anchor, you get standing headroom down below—at least right inside the pop-top.

You can build a canvas enclosure for your pop-top to use it in all weather. A pop-top makes your boat feel much larger than it is and allows you to move freely to cook or get changed down below or even do a nice boat bed area. 

Later models of the Catalina Sport 22 and Capri 22s lacked this cool pop-top feature, so if you want it, you’ll need to seek out an older model on the used market.

Com-Pac has been building small sailboats since the early 1970s. They currently sell two lines, each with various-sized boats. All are well built, and a majority of their boats are trailerable. 

Most interesting at the Com-Pac traditional catboats . The rigging is more straightforward than modern sloops, with only one large mainsail. Com-Pac boats come with a unique quick-rig system to make getting on the water fast and simple.

The Horizon Cat Coastal Cruising has a displacement of 2,500 pounds with a 2’2″ draft when the board is up. She has a separate head forward and space to lounge either topside or down below. The smaller Sun Cat has slightly few amenities but shaves off a few feet and pounds, making it easier to tow and it is one of these amazing small sailboats. Com-Pacs features stub keels, so their centerboard and hinged rudder do not take up space in the cabin.

On the sloop rig side, the Com-Pac 23 comes in a 3,000-pound traditional sailboat or a very interesting pilothouse. Both are incredibly livable for their size , with shallow two-foot-long fixed keels and high-quality construction.

Another option if you like catboats is the Marshall Sanderling. This salty 18-footer oozes traditional charm , all while being easy to sail and easier to tow. And while she has wooden boat lines, she has a modern laminated fiberglass hull.

The Sanderling has a 2,200-pound displacement, so tow weights will be around 3,000 pounds. At only 18-feet, she’s on the small side for cruising. The cuddy cabin has no galley, and the portable toilet is not enclosed. But that small size means a simple boat that’s easy to maintain and take anywhere. 

An electric motor package is an exciting option on this weekend sailboat!

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You can’t mention tiny trailer sailers without touching on the famous West Wight Potter . These 15 and 19-foot pocket cruisers have earned a worldwide reputation as the ultimate go-anywhere coastal cruiser.

The West Wight Potter 19 offers the most living space for staying aboard and cruising. So even though its dimensions are diminutive, this little boat packs a lot in. There’s a single burner hotplate and sink and a porta-potty tucked under a cushion. Yes, it’s tight—but the company claims the little boat can sleep five people. Any more than two will feel pretty crowded, however.

The boat comes standard with a mast-raising system that a single person can manage alone. It has a daggerboard for a shallow draft of a half-foot when the board is up. The total towing weight is around 1,500 pounds, which means nearly any car can tow a West Wight Potter.

This little-known trailer sailer is produced at the same Florida factory that makes Island Packet Yachts. That should give you a little bit of an idea of what sort of boat it is—trailerable, yes, but also high-quality, beautiful, and built for cruising. In other words, it’s one of the nicest all round pocket cruisers and it feels like a much larger boat.

The Seaward is easily the saltiest boat on this list . It’s beefy and seaworthy. Instead of a lightweight centerboard, Seaward fits the RK with a bulb-shaped retracting keel. Other big-boat items include a Yanmar diesel inboard motor and an enclosed head. The spacious cabin of the boat features a double berth and is ready for salt water cruising.

According to sailboatdata.com , the tow weight of the 26RK is 6,000 pounds. With the keel up, the draft is 1.25 feet.

Multihull sailors need not feel left out from the trailer sailer club and the pocket cruiser. Beyond the ubiquitous beach Hobie Cat, there are not many options for catamarans. But trimarans are uniquely suited to be towed.

Why? For one thing, performance oriented boats like trimarans are based on it being built light. There is no ballast—a trimaran’s stability comes from its two outer hulls. Additionally, the living space is entirely housed in the central hull–the outer floats are small and sometimes foldable. Finally, there are no keels on tris, so they are extremely shallow draft and perfect for trailering.

If you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping sporty and fun sailing, it’s impossible to beat what a trimaran will offer. Let’s not beat around the bush—most of the trailer sailers on this list have hull speeds around five knots. The Corsair has no such limits, routinely sailing at 15 knots or more .

The new Corsair 880 trimaran has an unloaded weight of 3,659 pounds. It is trailerable behind a big SUV or small pickup and is probably the most fun sailing option that is trailerable at all.

An even more portable option is the older Corsair F-24. It has a light displacement of under 2,000 pounds—so nearly any SUV can tow it.

MacGregor owns the market on trailerable motor sailers since they more or less created the product to fit the bill. The MacGregor 26 is not like other boats. The design combines a planing powerboat with a centerboard sailboat. Imagine scooting along at 20 knots or more when the wind is down or enjoying a sporty sail on a breezy day–in the same boat.

The entire boat is built from the ground up for towing and long-range sailing. So if you want a big sailboat that you can tow behind pretty much any SUV, the MacGregor has to be on your list. 

Depending on the model, the 26-foot-long boats have incredibly light dry weights of between 1,650 and 2,350 pounds. Considering the massive volume of the roomy cabin, the ability to tow such a large vessel opens up an entire world of opportunities for owners. 

It’s not all good news, of course. MacGregor owners love their boats, but they are built light and are not ideally suited for offshore cruising or rough weather. But in bays and for coastal sailing on nice days, few boats can get as much use as a MacGregor. 

The motorboat capability of the 26M and 26X might not appeal to hardcore sailors, but for those looking to maximize their use of the boat depending on the weather, their mood, or location, it makes a lot of sense. 

MacGregor shut down in 2015, but the daughter and son-in-law of the original owners took over production and renamed the boat the Tattoo 26 . The company will soon release a smaller version, the Tattoo 22 .

If the 26 is a bit big to make your list of best trailerable small sailboats, consider the smaller Powersailer 19. It’s nearly identical to the 26, just smaller and lighter.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dale Roddick (@droddick33)

What Do You Want Your Trailer Sailer To Do?

After you’ve settled on how you will tow and launch your trailer sailer, now it’s time to dream about what you want it to do. Where will it take you? 

The beauty of a towable boat is that you can travel anywhere. A boat in the water might take weeks or months to move a few hundred miles. But if you can attach it to your car and do 65 mph on the interstate, you could sail on the Pacific on Monday, the Gulf of Mexico on Wednesday, and the Atlantic on Friday.

We can divide our trailerable sailboats into three groups – daysailers, weekenders, and cruisers.

These are designed with open cockpits and no space to sleep. This is a majority of the sub-22-foot boats on the market. They are designed to be launched, play for the day, and return to the ramp or dock.

A weekender will have rudimentary sleeping facilities. Think of it as a floating tent—it’s not a five-star hotel, but you can sleep under the stars or get out of the rain. Conceivably you could stay aboard indefinitely, but it doesn’t have much room for gear. So most people are ready to get off after a day or two. 

A cruising boat has sleeping, cooking, and toilet facilities built-in. These might be small and simple, but in any quantity, they mean you can disconnect from shore for a long time. Unfortunately, squeezing all of this into a tow-friendly package isn’t easy, and very few boats do it well. 

The best trailer sailor for your adventures will depend on many factors. Like any boat, whatever you decide on will be a compromise – boats always are. But there are plenty of choices out there, no matter what size your tow vehicle is and no matter what sailing adventures you have in mind.

What size sailboat is trailerable?

Even large yachts are routinely transported by towing across land, so the question is more of how big a sailboat can you tow? Your tow vehicle will be the limiting factor. The upper limit for most large SUVs and trucks is usually a sailboat around 26 feet long.

Sailboats are generally very heavily built, with ballast and lead keels. Sailboats specifically made to be trailer sailers are lighter. They may use drainable water ballast tanks instead of fixed ballast and have fewer fixtures and amenities.

To find the best trailer sailer, you need to balance the total tow weight, the ease of rig setup at the boat ramp, and the boat’s draft. Shallow draft boats with centerboards are the easiest to launch and retrieve.

Is a Hunter 27 trailerable?

No. The Hunter 27 is a one of those fixed-keel larger boats built from 1974 to 1984. The boat’s displacement is 7,000 pounds, not including trailer and gear. That alone makes it too heavy to tow by all but the beefiest diesel trucks. 

Furthermore, the fixed keels had drafts between 3.25 and 5 feet, all of which are too much for most boat ramps. In short, the standard Hunter Marine 27 is too big to tow for most people.

On the other hand, Hunter has made several good trailer sailers over the years. For example, the Hunter 240 and 260 were explicitly designed for trailering. They have drainable water ballast and shallow keel/centerboard drafts less than two feet. 

Is a Catalina 22 trailerable?

Yes, the Catalina 22 is easily trailerable and makes a wonderful weekend sailboat. In fact, there were over 15,000 Catalina 22s made and sold over the years. 

The boat’s displacement is 2,250 pounds, which means your total tow weight with trailer and gear will be under 3,000 pounds. This is within the capabilities of most mid to full-size SUVs and light trucks. Be sure to check your vehicle’s towing capacity, of course.

The centerboard on the Catalina 22 is another factor in its easy towing. With the board up, the boat draws only two feet. This makes it easy to float off the trailer at nearly any boat ramp. You should avoid fixed keel versions of the 22 for towing unless you have access to extra deep ramps. 

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

Can someone tell me why no other manufacturer makes pop tops? Those who have them, love them. Makes sense for head space with a trailerable boat too. Catalina stopped making them decades ago, yet people still swear by them. So, why isn’t there any newer models?

MacGregor put pop tops on many of its trailerables

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View New and Used Boat Trailers for Sale

Every boat owner needs a great boat trailer to go with their watercraft. Boat trailers allow you to take the boat in and out of the water for storage or service, and they also allow you to transport your boat from one body of water to the next.

When you’re selecting a trailer for your boat, you’ll want to consider the weight of your boat and the length of your boat. You want your trailer to be slightly longer than your boat, and you want to ensure the trailer has a high enough gross vehicle weight rating, or GVWR, to handle your watercraft. Keep in mind the weight of your boat is the boat plus the engine, fuel, and onboard gear. Lighter weight boats can be towed using a single axle boat trailer, but if you have a larger boat, you’ll want to invest in a double axle boat trailer.

We carry leading boat trailer brands like EZ Loader and Magic Tilt so that your next trip to the boat ramp is quick and easy. Get started by searching new boat trailers today.

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What Size Trailer Do I Need for a 28 Foot Boat?

If you’re planning to take your 28-foot boat on the road, one of the most important things to consider is what size trailer you’ll need. A trailer that’s too small can damage your boat, while a trailer that’s too large will be cumbersome and difficult to tow. In this article, we’ll explore what size trailer you’ll need for your 28-foot boat and provide some tips for selecting the right one.

Calculating the Size of Trailer You Need

First, it’s important to understand how trailers are classified. Trailers are often categorized by their gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), which is the maximum weight that a fully-loaded trailer can weigh. Generally, trailers with a higher GVWR are larger and heavier.

To calculate the size of trailer you need for your 28-foot boat, you’ll need to consider its weight and dimensions. The weight of your boat will vary depending on its make and model, as well as any additional equipment or gear you’re carrying onboard. However, as a general rule of thumb, most 28-foot boats weigh between 6,000 and 10,000 pounds.

Calculating Length

To determine the length of trailer needed for your 28-foot boat, add an additional three feet of length to account for the tongue and hitch at the front of the trailer. This means that you’ll need a minimum length of 31 feet for your trailer.

Calculating Width

The width of your trailer should be at least equal to the beam width of your boat (the widest point), plus an additional foot on each side for safety purposes. The beam width varies depending on your make and model but generally ranges between eight and ten feet wide.

Calculating Height

The height of your trailer will depend on how high off the ground your boat sits. As a general rule, you’ll want to add an additional six inches to the height of your boat to account for ground clearance.

Selecting the Right Trailer

Once you’ve calculated the size of trailer you’ll need for your 28-foot boat, it’s time to start shopping for one. There are many different types of trailers available, so it’s important to choose one that’s appropriate for your needs.

Single-Axle vs. Tandem-Axle Trailers

Single-axle trailers have one set of wheels, while tandem-axle trailers have two sets of wheels. Tandem-axle trailers are generally more stable and easier to tow than single-axle trailers, but they’re also more expensive.

Bunk Trailers vs. Roller Trailers

Bunk trailers use padded supports (bunks) to hold your boat in place, while roller trailers use a series of rollers to support your boat. Bunk trailers are generally less expensive and provide better support for heavier boats, while roller trailers are easier to launch and retrieve.

Brakes and Suspension

It’s important to choose a trailer with adequate brakes and suspension based on the weight of your boat. A trailer with insufficient brakes or suspension can be dangerous when towing.

8 Related Question Answers Found

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Aluminum trailers.

Our line of aluminum trailers are a lightweight option that can help maximize towing capacity and increase fuel economy. They resist corrosion the best, making them a good choice if you frequent saltwater or marine environments.

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7 Trailerable Sailboats That Have Standing Headroom

Trailering your boat is a great way to sail in a lot of different places while keeping your boat budget in control. You can take a smaller boat a long way to launch it somewhere new, and you don't get saddled with a lot of mooring and dockage fees while your boat sits around unused.

That sounds great, but one key word in about trailerable sailboats is small . To move a boat on a street legal trailer without special permits and problems, it has to stay within certain size limits.

You may struggle to find a trailer sailer with head room when you're down below. But there are some out there that an average person doesn't have to sit to work in the galley, and we've put together a list of seven great pocket cruisers you can stand up in (if you're not too tall!).

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Standing headroom and trailering, westerly pageant, catalina 25, grampian 26, beneteau first 27, macgregor 26m / tattoo 26, corsair 760.

Our list includes some old classics dating back to the 70s, new boats in production today, and even a high performance multihull. The range of trailer sailers to pick from is enormous, but if you want something you can stand up in, here's a good place to start.

• Catalina 25 (poptop)
• MacGregor 26

The terms "trailerable" and "standing headroom" are both a little vague. Many boats can be moved by trailer, but you wouldn't want to move them that way every weekend. Bigger boats require heavier trucks and trailers, and once they get past eight feet of beam, you may need permits, special routing, and commercial equipment. Just because you can get it on a trailer doesn't mean it's "trailerable" in this context.

And standing headroom means something very different to different people. It's not just tall and short people who need different space, but what space in the boat you can stand in. Most people can stand up inside a small boat with the companionway open, but can you cook standing up with your head out in the cockpit? Or stand and stretch on a rainy day?

For our purposes, we're going to use the following definitions:

A trailerable boat is one you can launched, rig, and recover with the crew which sails it, an move on normal roads with no special permits or commercial tow vehicles. Many boats will fit on a trailer, but to be "trailerable" it needs to be reasonable to use for a trip on a long weekend, starting from and ending on a trailer. Most roads in North America have a vehicle width limit of a little over eight feet without special permits. This eliminates any boat with a beam much over eight and a half feet.

Standing headroom for this discussion means a person of average height (5'10" or 178 cm for men) can stand inside the main saloon, out of the elements. It doesn't mean you can stand everywhere down below, but you should be able to stand and move around a bit, get dressed and undressed without doing calisthenics, and hopefully work in the galley if there is one. "Headroom" on a boat is a very fuzzy measurement, and is distorted by marketing hype and wishful thinking. There isn't a standardized measurement for it, so we'll work with our own.

Within these parameters, there are many boats. If you can deal with some inconvenience in your trailering, or you only plan to move your boat by trailer once or twice a season, you can get more boat and still get the headroom you want. But that's not what's on our list.

Built by Westerly Marine in the 1970s, the Pageant is a 23' bilge keeled cruiser with full standing headroom in the saloon. At 4,300 pounds, it's heavy for its size and is known more for comfort than speed. The bilge keels may make getting onto a trailer interesting and require modifications to accommodate its under water layout.

There is a fin keeled version marketed as the Kendal 23/24, with a four-foot draft and two hundred pounds less displacement. They built only a few, so they're difficult to find.

The Catalina 25 is one of the most popular pocket cruisers built, with almost 6,000 hulls built between 1978 and 1994. A variety of keel styles and rigs were built, including a fin keel, swing keel, winged keel, and a tall rig. But the most distinctive feature of these boats is the "pop top" over the companionway, which enabled the entire area in the saloon under the companionway to lift for standing headroom. Some owners built covers and sides, enclosing this area into a true part of the belowdecks space.

The pop top was an option prior to 1987, but became standard after that through the end of the production run. It's important to know the build year for any Catalina 25 you consider, since the features varied considerably. Always check pictures for the pop top!

This trimaran is fast, but still has six feet of headroom. With the amas folded, the boat is narrow enough to trailer and with a 3,000 displacement is light and easy to move. While you won't have the interior beam of an eight-foot wide monohull in the living space, you will have quite a comfortable space with room to stand. But unlike most of the shallow draft, trailerable monohulls on this list, this one can hit fifteen knots under sail.

The Canadian-built Grampian 26 was built from the late sixties through the late seventies, and many of the almost 1,000 boats that were built are still around. It has six feet of headroom inside, an enclosed head, and a galley. It's an ideal weekender for a couple, or even a couple with a small child. Some boats had inboard engines, others had outboards. Additional options were for a keel or a centerboard model; with 4'3" of draft, the keel model is still easy to trailer.

One of the few new and in production boats in this list, the Beneteau First 27 is a fraction of an inch under our 5'10" qualifier (technically 5′9 5/16"), but it's such a roomy and quick boat that it seems appropriate to waive a few millimeters. This lightweight boat has sleeping space for up to six, and has a galley, fridge, and a proper marine head.

Don't confuse this boat with the earlier First 27 from 1978 or the First 27 SE (for "Seascape"), sold as the First 27 from 2018 to 2020 after Beneteau acquired Seascape. Those were quite different boats, though they had their own merits and strengths. They didn't have quite the headroom or interior volume as the newest model, and the earlier boat had too much beam for easy trailering.

Finds specs here

The MacGregor 26 series of boats is the most popular trailer sailor ever built. The first "Mac 26" was built in 1986, and went through several design upgrades and enhancements, including the 25D (dagger board), 26S (centerboard), 26X (dual rudder, motor sailing) culminating in the 26M (motorsailor with a rotating spar) built from 2002 though 2013. Earlier models have less headroom, but all are water ballasted, lightweight trailerable boats. The later 26X and 26M models can be equipped with rather large outboards (for sailboats) which could hit almost 20 knots under power.

Though the rigs on these boats are undersized and they're lightly built, they're spacious near shore and inland cruisers you can easily rig and de-rig for a weekend of sailing.

The founder of MacGregor Boats, Roger MacGregor, retired in 2013, and his daughter Laura founded Tattoo Yachts and bought the tooling for the 26M. Tattoo continues to build the Tattoo 26, which is a Macgregor 26M with a few modernizations and enhancements.

Corsair Trimarans offers several trailerable tris which meet the headroom test. The Corsair 760 is the smallest current production model, and like the Catalina 25, this 24' trimaran uses a clever pop-top over the companionway to get more headroom. It's sleeps two in the default configuration, though a foldable table can convert to sleep four.

Corsair designs their trimarans for easy setup and breakdown of the amas, and can be setup and launched in under an hour. The very shallow draft allows for anchoring in areas many boats can not, and even beaching.

The larger Corsair 970 is also trailerable with standing headroom, as is the older F-31.

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• Manufacturer: Venture
• Model: VATB-12625
• Material: Aluminum
• Trailer Weight: 2000 lbs.
• Suspension: Springs
• Capacity: 12625 Lbs
• GVWR: 14625 Lbs
• Coupler: 2 5/16"
• Boat Length: 23-34 Ft
• Overall Length: 38'
• Bow Eye to Transom Min: 26' 6"
• Bow Eye to Transom Max: 33' 6"
• Overall Width: 100"
• Between Fenders: 81"
• Tire Size: ST235/75D 15 LRD 6H
• Brakes: Disc- 3
• Lights: LED
• Swing Out Tongue: No
• Tongue Jack: 2000 Lbs

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