trailable yachts

Equally at home in light airs of inland waters or out on the rugged coastal waters, these yachts have proven performance and safety features.

"DID OR DO YOU OWN A RL24?"

Where is that boat NOW ? 2023 will be 50 years of RL24’s The RL24 Owners Association is keen to build a history on as many boats as possible.  So, we are on a mission to locate as many old boats as possible to compile this historical list.  

If you own or have owned a RL24 that we may not know about, we would love to hear from you. We are keen to know the boat name, sail number, which MK version she is, and where she might be NOW?  

To be part of this muster, please email Association Secretary Colin Boylan to provide any information you might have on old RL24’s. [email protected]

Bayside Trailable Yacht Club (BTYC)

Welcome to the web site of the , bayside trailable yacht club, a community club for people who like to use their trailable yacht for cruising with family and friends.

Proudly Sponsored by:

Please click on our sponsors' logo to visit their web site

Disclaimer of liability: The material and information contained on this website is for general information purposes only. You should not rely upon the material or information on the website as a basis for making any business, legal or any other decisions. Whilst we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, the Bayside Trailable Yacht Club makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such material is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Astus 20.5: Fast, fun and affordable trailable trimaran

• David Harding
• August 20, 2021

For fast yet undemanding sailing, easy trailing and simple camper-cruising, the Astus 20.5 trimaran is likely to find wide appeal says David Harding

The Astus 20.5 is taut and responsive to sail. Credit: David Harding

Product Overview

• Fast and easy to sail
• Can be trailed behind a small car
• Easy to reduce beam for marina berthing
• Less accommodation than a monohull of similar size
• Rigging process could be simplified
• Slightly stark interior finish

Manufacturer:

Price as reviewed:.

Boats that are small and light enough to keep in your driveway and trail to where you want to sail make a lot of sense.

One drawback, however, is that they tend to be slower than bigger boats – especially if they’re of a size and weight that allows them to be easily managed short-hand, both afloat and ashore.

If you want to sail from Poole to Weymouth for the weekend in a 20ft trailer-sailer, for example, it might take a while.

This is where speedy trailable trimarans like the Astus 20.5 come in.

When I sailed its predecessor, the 20.2, about 10 years ago, we regularly hit 15 knots on a reach without breaking sweat and maintained an easy 6.5 knots upwind.

This 20 footer can match 50 footers for speed. Credit: David Harding

You can cover a lot of ground at those sorts of speeds.

I first met the Astus 20.5 at the Düsseldorf Boat Show in 2019. Since it’s a newer boat and designed by no less a design team than VPLP, I had high hopes that it would offer even more than the 20.2.

Quite apart from the sailing potential, the trailing is as simple as can be with a boat like this.

If you choose the resin-infused hull, the Astus 20.5 weighs under 500kg (1,100lb), or just over 500kg with the standard solid laminate.

The lighter weight means you can use an unbraked trailer , saving money, maintenance and yet more weight, so you can trail it behind a normal hatchback vehicle.

Getting somewhere fast under sail is one thing. Having somewhere to sleep when you arrive is another.

The Astus 20.5 is simple to sail for two people. Credit: David Harding

Though its cabin is smaller than on a monohull of similar size, the Astus provides seating, stowage and space for a companionable couple to be able to stretch out.

Then of course you have the trampolines each side on which you can rig a tent for more sleeping space.

The opportunity for a sail on the Astus 20.5 finally came when Hein Kuiper of Boats On Wheels brought his first demonstrator to the UK.

In fact we went out twice – first for a photo session in Poole on a brisk winter’s day and then a few months later in Chichester Harbour.

Since the boat arrived in Poole on its trailer, I was able to see how it went together.

Pulling out the hulls is pretty straightforward: their aluminium beams slide in and out of the fixed beams on the main hull. You can do that ashore or afloat.

There’s nothing complicated about raising the rig, either, and it can all be done singlehanded .

The whole process, from arriving with the trailer to sliding the boat into the water, took Hein a couple of hours or so the first time or two (comparable with a monohull of similar size, he reckons) but would undoubtedly get quicker with practice.

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Dragonfly 28 Sport

Whether you choose the standard or the Sport version, the mast is the same height.

The difference is that the latter comes with a square-top mainsail to give appreciably more sail area.

If you want to save as much weight as possible and make raising and lowering the mast easier, you can have it in carbon. A wing mast is another option.

The rig and hardware don’t appear to be modified in any way as a concession to the boat’s trailer-sailer nature.

Here and there, the odd ready-made loop or strop would save fiddling around with bits of line.

It is basic down below but there’s seating and sleeping space for two people. Credit: David Harding

All that is forgotten as soon as you’re under way.

On our second outing, once the electric outboard had pushed us out of Northney Marina – where the boat proved to be surprisingly manoeuvrable with the centreplate fully down – we headed off on a beam reach at 12.5 knots in 12-15 knots of wind.

In most boats, 12.5 knots would be going some. In this 20-footer, it felt perfectly relaxed.

Over the course of the following couple of hours we covered every point of sail including, of course, reaching under spinnaker.

With the gusts rarely exceeding 16 knots in the flat water of the harbour, we didn’t quite manage to break 15 knots.

It wasn’t a bad speed-to-effort ratio nonetheless.

The boat felt rock solid the whole time, and I knew from the photo session in Poole that she could carry the kite on a beam reach in appreciably more wind than we had in Chichester.

It is easy to reduce the beam of the Astus 20.5 for marina berthing. Credit: David Harding

It’s hard to imagine that 20 knots wouldn’t be perfectly achievable.

Upwind we maintained between 7 and 8.5 knots most of the time.

As you would expect, you need to keep the bow down a little to maintain full power.

You also need the purchase of the 6:1 mainsheet to maintain sufficient tension in the upper leech. It makes a big difference.

You won’t need more than two people to go out and have fun on the Astus 20.5. Credit: David Harding

Tacking was pretty positive provided we had adequate boatspeed going into the tack, and leeway appeared minimal.

All told the Astus 20.5 was great fun to sail and easy to manage two-handed.

There was little for a third person to do except enjoy the ride or contribute to the righting moment by joining the helmsman on the windward trampoline.

If you were racing, you could use a longer tiller extension and fit toe-straps to maximise the advantage.

Beating our way back up the harbour, we demonstrated the windward ability of the Astus 20.5 by sailing straight past a 15m (49ft) monohull.

Creature comforts aboard the Astus 20.5

David Harding has been testing boats for decades and is also a sailing photographer

Above decks the Astus offers a vast amount of sitting and lounging space thanks to the trampolines.

Down below, the hull’s narrow beam makes things cosy but you still find a seat either side, space for a chemical toilet under the aft end of the berth and a fair amount of stowage beneath and to either side of the companionway.

The centreboard is offset to port to leave the middle of the boat clear.

The finish is simple and uncomplicated, largely to save weight. There would be plenty of scope to fit a slide-out galley and devise lightweight stowage solutions to make better use of the space.

Astus 20.5: the test verdict 

More than anything else, this boat is tremendous fun.

She feels taut and responsive to sail. I found that it took an hour or so to begin to find her sweet spots, but after that she just makes you want to sail her.

She inspires confidence and is easy to handle, too. In most conditions you could manage perfectly well single-handed and for cruising you won’t need more than two.

The Astus 20.5 has less accommodation than a monohull of similar size

Then there’s the speed. No matter whether or not you’re in a hurry to get anywhere, it’s easier to slow down in a fast boat than to speed up in a slow one.

Speed is fun in itself, and it’s hard not to enjoy sailing straight past a monohull more than twice your length.

Niggles are relatively few.

I thought the rudder blade could do with a touch more balance and I wasn’t sure that the fixed end of the 2:1 jib sheet was quite far enough aft on deck.

Other than that, it all works.

Hardware is mostly from Harken and the spars are by Sélden, so there’s no skimping in these departments.

Would she suit you and your crew?

The Astus 20.5 will attract attention. Several people stopped for a chat and to admire her back in Northney having seen her on the water.

If you’re a dinghy sailor moving up but not ready to slow down, this is a good choice.

Just as much interest is coming from big-boat sailors moving down or wanting a second, smaller boat that still has a good cruising range. Few boats of this size go so fast with so little effort.

The Astus 20.5 is ideal for exploring harbours, estuaries and rivers

As for the inevitable monohull-versus-multihull debate, there are trailable, family-friendly boats of this size with one hull that sail very nicely.

I have clocked over 12 knots in one or two, but only under spinnaker, with good sailors on board and not for sustained periods.

As long as you’re prepared to accept that sailing regularly at double-figure speeds means sacrificing some interior volume, the Astus could suit you perfectly. And for exploring harbours and estuaries, camper-cruising and nudging into the beach, it’s absolutely ideal.

For all the latest from the sailing world, follow our social media channels Facebook, Twitter and Instagram .

Have you thought about taking out a subscription to Yachting Monthly magazine?

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• Yachting Monthly is packed with all the information you need to help you get the most from your time on the water.
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• Impartial in-depth reviews of the latest yachts and equipment will ensure you buy the best whatever your budget
• If you are looking to cruise away with friends Yachting Monthly will give you plenty of ideas of where to sail and anchor

Best Trailerable Houseboats

December 27, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

• These houseboats offer water exploration with the convenience of a towable vessel.
• Many models with different amenities and features are available for each individual.
• Modern trailerable houseboats focus on providing maximum comfort and style.

‍ Unveil the charm of trailerable houseboats, your ideal solution for serene aquatic adventures and cozy living on the move.

The best trailerable houseboats are Catamaran Cruiser Lil Hobo for its spacious layout, CaraBoat Model 870 for its sleek design, TravelWave 360's innovative mobility, CaraBoat Model 790 for efficiency, MatrixMX24 Glampboat for luxury, Boat A Home's versatility, and Nomad Houseboats for reliability.

As a seasoned aficionado of houseboat living, I've navigated various waters and experienced the nuances of life afloat. I've seen what works and what doesn't. You're in for an adventure that blends the comforts of home with the thrill of exploration.

Table of contents

‍ best trailerable houseboats.

For those who love to explore land or water, houseboats offer the best of both worlds. These versatile vessels allow you to enjoy the freedom and comfort of a houseboat without the added cost and hassle of renting a marina slip. Instead, simply hook them up to your trailer, tow them to your destination, and start your adventure.

As you begin your search for the perfect trailerable houseboat, consider factors such as size, onboard amenities, and style of the houseboat. With a variety of models available, you can find a houseboat tailored to your specific tastes and needs.

Here’s a table comparing the key features of the best Trailerable House Boats:

1. Catamaran Cruiser Lil Hobo

If you are searching for the perfect trailerable houseboat, look no further than the Catamaran Cruiser Lil Hobo . This compact, efficient, and affordable houseboat is designed with all the comforts and functionality to enjoy your time on land or water.

Specifications

Performance

With its modern design and quality materials, the Lil Hobo offers an efficient and easy-to-maintain houseboat experience. Twin engines allow for maximum maneuverability on water, while its lightweight construction ensures hassle-free towing on land. This boat is perfect for a family holiday, camping trip, or fishing expedition.

What Sets It Apart

The Catamaran Cruiser Lil Hobo is unique among houseboats for being both affordable and functional. Its spacious interior easily accommodates your family while providing a comfortable living space that boasts all the comforts of home, complete with a fully-equipped kitchen and bathroom. The large back deck offers easy access for fishing or simply relaxing and enjoying the view.

Recent Updates

Catamaran Cruisers has made a number of recent updates to improve the Lil Hobo's quality, comfort, and functionality. These include a new modern interior design, more innovative storage solutions, and the addition of optional features for customization.

• Affordable entry point into houseboat ownership
• Compact size for easy transportation and storage
• Comfortable, spacious interior
• Easy maintenance
• Able to navigate both shallow and deep waters
• Highly customizable
• Smaller living space compared to larger houseboats
• May not be suitable for people looking for high-end luxury

Who Should Buy It

If you're a beginner boater, or someone looking to downsize from a larger houseboat, the Catamaran Cruiser Lil Hobo is an excellent choice. With its affordable price tag, easy maintenance, and compact size, it's perfect for both casual boating enthusiasts and people who want a functional living space without breaking the bank.

Where To Buy It

Catamaran Cruisers is an industry leader known for producing high-quality, affordable houseboats. To purchase your very own Lil Hobo, visit the official Catamaran Cruisers website , where you'll find detailed information on pricing, available options, and contact information.

2. CaraBoat Model 870

The CaraBoat Model 870 offers a perfect blend of comfort and versatility for your boating and travel needs. Designed as a trailerable houseboat, it allows you to take it on land or water, giving you a 2-for-1 value for both camping and boating adventures.

The performance of the CaraBoat Model 870 is impressive, offering excellent handling that allows you to navigate with ease, whether you're on the open water or exploring narrow waterways. The spacious back deck gives you ample room for fishing, relaxing, or taking in the views.

With its double engines, you'll experience smooth, reliable power, making your time on the water enjoyable and hassle-free. Its access to the engine compartment ensures that maintenance is a breeze.

The CaraBoat Model 870 truly sets itself apart from other houseboats with its 2-for-1 value and wide range of modern features.

Some standout aspects include:

• Versatility for land or water use
• Efficient use of space, with several floor plans to choose from
• Spacious back deck, perfect for fishing and lounging
• Modern fixtures and appliances, including a fully-equipped galley
• Cost-effective, lightweight design for easy transportation and towing

CaraBoat has introduced several updates to the Model 870 within recent years, focusing primarily on increased comfort and functionality. These updates include improved handling capabilities, enhanced interior layouts, and additional options available for customization.

• A comfortable home-away-from-home experience
• A versatile option for water activities
• A cost-effective, transportable houseboat solution
• A secure, easily towable vessel with a relatively low weight
• High-quality construction and materials
• Limited space for customization compared to larger
• Potential maintenance costs involved with both land and boat components
• May not suit those seeking traditional, stationary houseboats

The CaraBoat Model 870 can be ideal for families or individuals seeking an adventure-ready, easily transportable home on both land and water. Whether you enjoy spending your time exploring the waterways, going fishing, or taking in the beautiful sights and sounds of nature, the Model 870 offers you the opportunity to do it all.

The CaraBoat Model 870 can be purchased directly from the CaraBoat official website , as well as some local boat dealerships that specialize in boat sales. Before making your purchase, be sure to thoroughly research and compare prices to ensure you're getting the best deal possible.

3. TravelWave 360

The TravelWave 360 is a one-of-a-kind houseboat that caters to those who want to experience luxury living on the water. Perfect for family holidays or a fishing adventure, this houseboat offers remarkable comfort and practicality.

• Length: 36'
• Width (road): 8'
• Width (water): 14'
• V-hull construction with aluminum pontoons
• Accommodates up to 6 people
• Equipped with modern appliances

The TravelWave 360 is designed for land or water adventures. Its unique aluminum V-hull and retractable pontoons provide stability and buoyancy, while double engines ensure smooth and efficient performance. This boat is easy to tow, making transitions from land to water a breeze.

This houseboat is the largest legal houseboat in the US, offering spacious living areas and all the comforts of home.

Some features that set it apart include:

• Unique floor plan with ample storage
• Modern appliances for hassle-free living
• Optional rear deck for sunbathing or fishing
• Conveniently transitions between land and water

The latest models of the TravelWave 360 have incorporated several updates, such as:

• Improved maintenance features for easier upkeep
• Enhanced living spaces for increased comfort
• Updated appliances for a contemporary feel
• Luxury houseboat experience in a compact size
• Can be easily towed by a family vehicle
• Ample room for family and friends
• Ideal for fishing, camping, and exploring new destinations
• Steeper learning curve for inexperienced boaters
• High initial cost compared to other houseboats
• May not be suitable for all boating environments

The TravelWave 360 is perfect for families, avid boaters, and those who value luxury on the go. It's an attractive option for those who want to enjoy both the convenience of a caravan and the freedom of living on the water.

If you're in the market for a trailerable houseboat, TravelWave 360 can be a great choice. You can find them for sale at the Stoll Manufacturing website , where you can explore the full range of options and get in touch with sellers directly to learn more about this fantastic vessel.

4. CaraBoat Model 790

The CaraBoat Model 790 is a versatile and efficient houseboat perfect for couples or small families looking for an eco-friendly, stylish, and convenient mobile home on land or water. Here are some important specifications of this eye-catching model.

CaraBoat Model 790 offers great handling and stability on the water, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable boating experience. The double engines provide excellent maneuverability and easy access to your favorite fishing spots or secluded bays.

The design and efficiency of this houseboat truly set it apart from its competitors. The Model 790 features an aerodynamic hull design, reducing fuel consumption and making it easier to tow on land. The eco-friendly materials used in its construction contribute to its lightweight, modern style while offering numerous convenience and comfort features.

Some recent updates to the CaraBoat Model 790 include:

• Improved interior layout with an emphasis on comfort and spaciousness
• New materials and techniques to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability
• Enhanced storage solutions for limited space
• Compact size, perfect for couples or small families
• Easy to tow and transport on land
• Spacious living area with two bedrooms and a shower
• Low-maintenance and eco-friendly design and materials
• Ability to explore land or water environments
• Limited living space in comparison to larger houseboats
• May not suit larger families or groups
• May require additional equipment for extended travel

The CaraBoat Model 790 can be perfect for couples or small families who value a compact and stylish houseboat that can easily be transported on land. Its versatility allows for unique holiday experiences exploring land or water, and the eco-friendly design ensures low maintenance and a smaller environmental footprint.

The Model 790 is made by CaraBoat, a company specializing in the design and manufacture of small, trailerable houseboats. To purchase or learn more about this impressive boat, visit their official website.

5. MatrixMX24 Glampboat

The MatrixMX24 Glampboat is a modern and stylish trailerable houseboat. This unique and luxurious watercraft offers the perfect combination of extravagant comforts and captivating performance.

The MatrixMX24 Glampboat boasts double engines, providing smooth and responsive performance along with easy maneuverability. It's designed to be towed, so you'll have no problem taking it out on the water for a day of fishing or exploring new destinations.

One of the most notable aspects of the MatrixMX24 Glampboat is its luxurious interior design, boasting a modern kitchen filled with the latest appliances and a comfortable living space.

The spacious back deck offers a fantastic area for relaxation and entertainment, with access to all areas of the boat. Technological advancements such as a high-quality sound system and a stylish aesthetic make it a top choice for glamping enthusiasts and luxury boaters alike.

The MatrixMX24 Glampboat has seen some recent updates, including

• Exterior: Ultra-durable composite cladding and UPVC French doors
• Interior : Sleek design, top-quality materials, and double-glazed portholes for better insulation
• Miscellaneous: Enhanced maintenance features, slip-resistant decking, and improved safety features
• Top-quality luxury and comfort
• Easy to tow and transport
• Excellent performance with double engines
• Suitable for land or water-based holidays
• Technologically advanced features for increased convenience
• Relatively expensive compared to traditional camping options
• Requires a specialized towing vehicle for transport
• Limited to inland waterways and calm conditions

The MatrixMX24 Glampboat caters to those who are seeking a luxurious and stylish outdoor experience with all the comforts of a modern home. It's perfect for families, couples, and individuals who love the idea of houseboats and want to experience land or water-based vacations.

You can purchase the MatrixMX24 Glampboat from its official manufacturer , Matrix Pontoons , or through specialized dealers such as YachtWorld . The price for the 2023 model is approximately £54,995 (US$69,503).

6. Boat A Home

The Boat A Home is a popular houseboat, offering a perfect balance between boating and caravan traveling experiences.

Your trailerable houseboat offers impressive performance on both land and water. With outboard engines and compact size, you'll find maneuverability to be a breeze, whether you're towing it to your next camping spot or navigating waterways. Easy access to controls and double engines (optional) further enhance your boating experience.

The Boat A Home stands out from other houseboats due to its dual purpose. When you're not exploring the water in your houseboat, your vehicle can double as a comfortable caravan for camping adventures. Foldable features make transport straightforward, while the interior kitchenette, toilet, and sleeping areas provide all the essential comforts of home.

Boat A Home is constantly innovating and upgrading its components. Recent models have seen the addition of optional solar panels and improved materials for better durability and reduced maintenance requirements.

• Compact size and portability
• Dual purpose as a boat and a caravan
• Upgraded components
• Foldable features for easy transport and storage
• Suitable for outdoor enthusiasts
• Limited space compared to larger houseboats
• May not accommodate larger families or groups

The Boat A Home is an ideal choice for campers, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a versatile and portable holiday solution. If you love exploring the world on both water and land, this houseboat offers a unique and exciting way to combine your passions.

Boat A Home can be purchased through marine retailers . To see the houseboat in action before making a purchase, you might want to watch this video showcasing its features. For the best deals, you can also keep an eye on websites and local classifieds for used models on sale.

7. Nomad Houseboats

The Nomad Houseboats are a popular choice for those who dream of the nomadic lifestyle, want to enjoy a unique vacation, or explore new places on land or water. They offer a range of affordable and innovative houseboats that provide all the comforts of home while being easily towed behind a vehicle.

• Vary depending on the specific model, but generally range between 25 to 35 feet
• Approximately 3500 to 6000 pounds, ensuring easy towing capabilities
• Comes with optional engine choices, such as either single
• Aluminum or fiberglass, providing longevity and reliability
• Can include a living room, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, rear deck, and other convenient storage solutions.

Nomad Houseboats offer smooth performance and great maneuverability on the water thanks to their lightweight construction and optional engine options. The well-designed hulls ensure stability and ease of maintenance while providing adequate living amenities for a comfortable stay. With the option of either single or double engines, these houseboats are highly efficient and can power you through your adventures at a desirable speed.

Nomad Houseboats stand out for their ease of transport, making them the go-to choice for those who value the portability of their houseboat. The compact size and lightweight construction allow your houseboat to hitch to a trailer so that you can tow it with your vehicle comfortably.

Their innovative designs, such as the caravan-inspired interior, provide comfortable living spaces without compromising on storage. Furthermore, the optional engine and maintenance solutions add to the overall convenience and experience.

Nomad Houseboats continuously update their designs and offerings to provide the best experience to their customers. Recent model updates include better-optimized storage solutions, more living amenities, and innovations in engineering that lead to improved reliability and performance.

• Lightweight and compact, Nomad Houseboats are a breeze to hitch to your vehicle
• They often come with a lower price tag than other houseboat options
• Perfect for family vacations, fishing trips, and weekend getaways
• They are smaller than houseboats built for full-time living
• Nomad Houseboats may not travel as far or as fast as some other houseboat options

Nomad Houseboats are perfect for individuals, couples, or families who want spend time in various places while exploring new places by land or water. The smaller size and portability of these houseboats are perfect for trips, while their ease of maintenance ensures a smooth, hassle-free experience. They are ideal for travel enthusiasts or those interested in houseboat vacations.

Nomad Houseboats can be purchased directly from houseboat manufacturers or specialized dealers. Various models may be available for sale, so it is essential to consider your specific requirements and budget before making your final decision.

Innovations in Houseboat Living

In recent years, innovators in the boating industry have developed more versatile and convenient alternatives to traditional houseboats. Among these developments are trailerable houseboats, which combine land-based travel with waterborne leisure.

One remarkable innovation in houseboats is the use of cruisers. These designs integrate a spacious rear deck and double engines that provide optimal maneuverability and stability. These features make it possible for you to explore various water regions, making the most out of your holiday.

Another significant development in houseboat living is the ability to tow the trailerable houseboats with ease. This feature makes it convenient for you to travel to different locations and enjoy multiple scenic views. The use of trailers also enables access to land when needed for maintenance or restocking the houseboat.

When it comes to comfort, houseboats don't compromise. They come equipped with essential features like toilets, sleeping areas, and kitchens. Some even offer optional add-ons that provide all the luxuries of a traditional houseboat. Furthermore, their spacious design allows for a comfortable and enjoyable boating experience for the whole family.

Best Houseboat Fishing Trips

Best Houseboat Food

Best Houseboats For The Money

Best Houseboat Financing

This article may contain affiliate links where we earn a commission from qualifying purchases. The images and content on this page may be created by, or with the assistance of, artificial intelligence, and should be used for entertainment and informational purposes only.

About THE AUTHOR

Brian Samson

I have a deep love of houseboating and the life-changing experiences houseboating has brought into my life. I’ve been going to Lake Powell on our family’s houseboat for over 30 years and have made many great memories, first as a child and now as a parent. My family has a passion for helping others have similar fun, safe experiences on their houseboat.

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After spending over 30 years on houseboats, the memories and knowledge we've gained will never fade. Learn from our experiences here on LakeWizard. You can read more about us and our team, here .

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Practical Boat Owner

• Digital edition

Pocket cruisers: the best boats between 17-20ft

• Peter Poland
• March 31, 2023

Whether you’re moving on from dinghies, or downsizing to a boat that’s fun without being a financial millstone, here’s a pocket cruisers market guide

The Drascombe Coaster, Blue Peter. The coaster is 21ft 9in LOA

Selecting a pocket cruiser or any boat can be a bit of a lottery. Especially if it’s getting on a bit.

If you are looking at a brand-new model you can of course ask the dealer for a trial sail. But this won’t necessarily tell you the full story.

If the test is on a sunny day with light winds, what will she be like in a blow? Or vice versa?

Reprints of test reports can also provide extra useful input (although they’re not so easily available these days) and help you to build up an overall picture.

You can also study owners’ opinions by visiting class association websites and YBW forums . Either way, you need to tap into the experience of as many people as possible to build up a picture of any older boat’s good and bad points.

When it comes to second-hand boats, trial sails are the exception rather than the rule.

Norfolk Gypsy III. These are popular boats and often in demand. Credit: Neil Thompson Boats Ltd

Even the best brokers are unlikely to take you for a spin on one of the many boats on their books.

The owner – if it is a private sale and the boat is afloat – may offer a trial sail. But again, this cannot be guaranteed.

Your surveyor might also chuck in a general comment such as ‘great boats’ or ‘I wouldn’t dream of owning one of those’.

You should also ask yourself the same three basic questions that we encouraged our Hunter clients to consider.

These are: ‘where are you going to sail it; how often; and with whom?’ It was interesting that clients often decided on something a bit smaller once they’d gone through this self-cross-examination.

And then there is the expectation of what you want from a sailing boat.

Norfolk Gypsy Ripple . Credit: Neil Thompson Boats Ltd

Some sailors relish top performance and a design that will slice upwind in fair weather and foul.

Others are less fussed about speed or close-windedness and are happy with a boat that will trundle along satisfactorily and safely.

On the comfort stakes, some are happy with adequate if spartan accommodation, while others want maximum space and comfort down below.

The field is wide and sometimes confusing. What’s more, some boats represent better value for money than others.

Buying a tired example of an obscure model can mean ‘throwing good money after bad’.

Pocket cruisers: Sailfish 18

Starting at the small end of the scale, where should you look if you want a pocket cruiser in the 16ft-20ft size range that’s capable of trailer-sailing ?

Many sailors make their first purchase around this size having moved on from dinghies ; while others decide that a smaller boat could offer lots of fun without being a financial millstone.

Indeed, many sailors downsize to smaller cruisers after retiring and decide to ‘own little and charter large’.

I started my search for sensible and trailable 16- to 20-footers by consulting two PBO columnists who champion the smaller boat – Dave Selby and Sam Llewellyn.

Sailfish 18 yacht racing at the 2013 Rutland Water Rally. Credit: Judy Stratford

Dave owns a Sailfish 18 . He paid £2,000, which included an excellent trailer (worth half the total purchase price, he said).

This versatile small cruiser was designed by Leo da Costa and built by Maxim Marine in converted farm sheds in Hampshire.

And thanks to a clever marketing policy of offering it as a complete package including outboard motor and trailer, it sold like hot cakes.

It was launched in 1970 and around 900 were built.

The Sailfish’s LOA of 18ft 6in and beam of 7ft 1in – combined with a huge cockpit , generous topsides and high coachroof – mean it offers plenty of space for its size.

Sandpiper 565 on the Saint-Laurent river, close to Quebec, Canada

Dave told me: “You can sleep on a king- sized airbed in its 6ft cockpit. The original tent even has windows, creating an extra room or conservatory. The builder’s original brochure claimed it slept six!”

Dave’s friends towed their Sailfish to Disneyland Paris, put it in the caravan park and lived in it (along with their two children). A passer-by was heard to exclaim: “That caravan looks like a boat!”

The Sailfish offers more, however, than space.

Its vertically lifting keel (operated by a worm drive) weighs 114kg/250lb (out of a displacement of 454kg/1,000lb) and reduces draught from 3ft to 1ft.

So the boat is also relatively easy to trail, launch and retrieve, and it sails well and is simple to handle.

Dave got caught in heavy winds off Felixstowe on an early trip and found that the wide companionway meant he could stand on the keel box in the cabin and reef the sail.

He “was surprised when friends said later it was a Force 7”. Dave does not, however, use his keel as an echosounder .

Unlike a pivoting plate, it does not flip up.

The Sailfish UK Class Association offers advice galore on maintenance and often sources spare parts – should you ignore his advice and crunch the keel.

Dave describes the owners’ association as excellent, providing friendly support and sociable rallies.

These are essential parts of any elderly boat’s inventory.

You can mull over the Selby meanderings on pbo.co.uk/dave-selby/sailfishing-compliments-dave-selbys-mad-boat.

The Sandpiper 565 is a similar da Costa design of which a few were built in the UK and many more in Canada.

Pocket cruisers: Cornish Shrimper 19

Sam Llewellyn also graced PBO’s pages with many musings about his Cornish Shrimper 19 (19ft 3in LOA), praising it as an ideal ‘minimum boat’.

His route to this boat, having owned “a 30ft ketch when the family was small: a slow but very good sea boat; then a Drascombe Longboat when I got fed up with paying mooring fees for the ketch; slow again, but also a very good sea boat; then a Cornish Crabber Mk1 until I got fed up with not sailing too well… Then I bought a Cornish Shrimper because it was solid and had a roof and sailed quite well and, most importantly, it was trailable.”

Sam’s keen on ‘trailability’: “I like being able to sail in the Hebrides and Scilly in the same year, without spending weeks on passage.”

A few years later Sam bought a Corribee 21, summing up his philosophy of boat ownership by saying “the smaller the boat, the bigger the fun, within reason. Friends have Discovery 55s and mighty Olin Stephens classics. The haunted expression on their faces tells its own story.”

The Cornish Shrimper is one of the UK’s most successful small boats. More than 1,100 have been built. It comes with a variety of interior layouts and choice of an outboard well, a Yanmar diesel and now an electric engine .

It weighs 2,348lb and draws 1ft 6in with pivoting centreplate up and 4ft with it down. So it’s trailable, albeit behind a beefy car.

Cornish Shrimper in the Sound of Islay. Credit: Sam Llewellyn

The original Cornish Crabber 24 was built in marine plywood , then market demand led to production switching to GRP to satisfy the long queue of waiting customers.

Designed by Roger Dongray, she offered attractive, chunky looks with a flattish deck and plenty of space below.

However, when her smaller sister – the Cornish Shrimper 19 – came along, Dongray hit the jackpot.

Some designers say they can design a boat 95% right, but the last 5% is down to luck. If that’s the case, the 19ft Shrimper was Dongray’s lucky boat.

She looks the part with her jaunty sheer, pretty coach-roof and gaff rig .

As a sensible concession to modernity she also sports a roller genoa tacked to a bowsprit.

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I suspect that the Shrimper’s major appeal lies in its lovely lines and elegantly proportioned rig .

It’s still available new (£43,950 from cornishcrabbers.co.uk ) and has become a true ‘cult’ boat.

Its accommodation is not huge for its length, but – as on the Sailfish 18 – a good cockpit tent works wonders when at anchor in wet, windy conditions.

An active class association runs an extensive programme of sailing and social events.

If you like the idea of a versatile and attractive day sailer-cum-weekend cruiser, the Shrimper 19 is a safe choice.

And if a gaff rig with varnished spars doesn’t appeal, the Adventure 19 version (also £43,950) has alloy spars and a Bermudan rig with a semi-fathead mainsail and no backstay.

Both versions should be easy to resell at a later date.

Long-term favourites

The Drascombe Coaster (from Churchouse Boats, drascombe.uk ) and Original Devon Coaster (from honnormarine.co.uk ) are also long-term favourites.

Both offer new boats from around £32,000 and brokerage boats from around £5,500 to £10,000 depending on age and specification.

The Coaster’s hull, based on the open Longboat model, is 21ft 9in LOA, 6ft 7in beam and draws 1ft/3ft 10in.

Its attractively styled coachroof provides a two-berth interior. An optional sprayhood and cockpit tent add two more berths while a tilting 5hp-8hp outboard lives in a well aft of the mizzen mast.

Drascombe Coaster. Credit: Sharon Geary

The Drascombe Coaster has a sailing weight of 1,280lb and estimated towing weight of around 2,160lb.

Coasters often take to the road to attend Drascombe Association events around the country.

The association reckons that over 5,000 boats have been built since the first Lugger was launched in 1966 so these events are all well attended and great fun.

After the Cornish Shrimper hit the scene, Andrew Wolstenholme designed the Norfolk Gypsy for Charlie Ward’s East Coast firm.

She’s small enough to trail and easy to launch and rig, yet she’s tough enough to stand up to heavy weather .

Inside of the Norfolk Gypsy III. Credit: Neil Thompson Boats Ltd

The attention to detail and quality of finish Ward lavished on these yachts makes them objects of beauty.

The current builder (Neil Thompson Boats, neilthompsonboats.co.uk ) offers similar quality. Thompson usually has a selection of used Gypsys for sale at around £24,000 and a new one costs £72,000 inc. diesel inboard.

The Norfolk Gypsy is a high-quality gaffer and remains in demand.

Pocket cruisers: Cape Cutter 19

A similar but less known trailer-sailer-gaffer is the Dix-designed and Honnor Marine-built Cape Cutter 19.

At 2,535lb it’s slightly heavier than the Shrimper while its draught with centreplate up or down is similar.

With a longer LWL, wider beam and longer full width coachroof, it offers more space down below.

And its cutter rig is more adaptable than the Shrimper’s single genoa rig. A new Cape Cutter 19 costs £39,500.

Despite moving on to a larger gaffer, Charles Erb’s blog travellingaurora.wordpress.com about his earlier Cape Cutter 19 contains a wealth of information.

He recommends the class association website capecutter19association.org .

Cape Cutter 19. Credit: Chris Wicks

After considering a Hawk 21, Drascombe Longboat, Shrimper and small Beneteau, Charles bought the Cape Cutter, saying: “We chose it because it looks very handsome, can sleep all four of us (I didn’t think this would be possible until I saw inside one) and handles really well. It’s also excellent value for money.”

The ability to trail and sail was also important. Another owner was grateful that he stumbled across the Honnor Marine stand at a Southampton Boat Show .

Dennis Ogle went on to buy a CC19 saying “It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made… It’s the sailing performance that really does it for me. I frequently outsail larger yachts in our club, especially in light winds. I sail mainly single-handed – the Cape Cutter is ideal for this. The cutter rig gives lots of options as the wind strength varies … the boat carries a lot of sail so it will reach hull speed in the lightest of breezes, yet it’s not overpowered in a Force 6 with a single reef in the mainsail and the staysail only.”

The trailer-sailer-gaffer Cape Cutter 19 is similar to the Cornish Shrimper but offers more space down below. Credit: Dennis Ogle

PBO was responsible for another owner choosing a Cape Cutter 19.

While waiting to catch a plane to Greece Chris Wilks “picked up a copy of PBO at the airport and spent the flight reading about the new Cape Cutter 19.”

To cut a long story short, he went on to buy a small olive farm over-looking Platanias and the Aegean Sea – and a Cape Cutter 19 and (later) a Lune Whammel 17ft gaff rigged open boat.

“Since then we have spent our summers day sailing in the Aegean and occasionally going further afield to Skopelos and Alonnysos. We find our Cape Cutter a fantastic boat, very secure feeling in a blow, well made and with the centreplate up we can approach and anchor at any beach in a few inches of water.”

Envious of this lifestyle? You can rent part of Olive Store Cottage and cruise surrounding bays as guests of Chris and Kathryn Wilks by visiting facebook.com/olivestorecottage .

Perhaps the most intrepid Cape Cutter 19 adventure was Mike Brooke’s solo 1,783 mile trip round Britain.

This took 86 days and he visited 60 ports. The voyage raised £43,000 for a Fast Light Scanner – and more – for Moorfields Eye Hospital.

Mike’s Godson, Theo, was born blind and this machine would help him and thousands of other children with the same condition.

And on a sportier level, Mike told me: “In the five Round the Island Races which I entered in the CC19 my results were 8,1,1,1,4. So yes, I won the Small Gaffers Class (Discovery Trophy) three times in a row (2009/10/11). My main opposition came from Cornish Shrimpers, particularly one from Poole which was very well sailed with lots of local knowledge.”

Bermudan rigs

Moving to Bermudan rigs , one of the most successful and yet overlooked designers of small trailable cruisers was Ian Proctor.

He’s famous for his many great dinghy designs – Wayfarer , Wanderer, Topper, Osprey et al. But Proctor’s Westerly Nimrod, Prelude 19 and Pirate 17 designs are all capable trailable pocket cruisers with above average performance.

Westerly Nimrod. Credit: David Harding

Westerly commissioned the 17ft 9in Nimrod as a starter boat for families moving on from cruising dinghies .

Most have a pivoting lifting keel, weighing 260lb out of an all up 1,050lb. The draught goes from 8in (up) to 4ft (down), while a generous sail plan combined with a slippery hull provides sporty performance.

The cabin is on the small side offering occasional overnight accommodation, while the long cockpit makes the Nimrod an ideal day sailer.

If you want a trailer-sailer that can live in your drive then give hours of fun afloat, this boat could be on the list.

The Rydgeway Marine-built and Proctor-designed Pirate or Express Pirate (17ft 3in LOA) is of similar size but very different in character.

The drop keel version has a draught of 2ft (up) and 4ft 9in (down). Fin (3ft 9in) and twin keels (2ft 3in) were also offered.

The Pirate was a top seller and about 400 were built.

The fin and drop keel versions are obviously the quickest and – as expected from a Proctor designed boat – offer sparkling performance.

The three-berth interior, complete with compact galley, is surprisingly spacious although the cockpit becomes a bit crowded with three or more crew.

The Pirate’s ability to go to sea was dramatically illustrated by a cowman from Cirencester.

The Pirate 17 was available as a drop keel, fin keel and twin keel version. Credit: David Harding

Phil Ashwin sailed his fin keel Pirate Laynee 1,732 miles single-handed around Britain to raise money for ‘Help the Heroes’.

Farmers Weekly quoted him as saying “There were grown-up seas, wonderful wildlife – dolphins, seals and a whale – and tremendous scenery, but best of all there were great people all around the UK who couldn’t have been kinder, more helpful and interested in the project.”

On a YBW.com forum, Ashwin added: “Accommodation in a little boat is never going to be palatial, but on the above trip I lived on her for three months without any great suffering. Far more comfortable than a bivvi on a hilltop somewhere!”

The 19ft 3in Prelude was another top seller. Again, Proctor offered a choice of fin, twin and swing keel versions and all sail well.

Rydgeway Marine and Pegasus Yachts built around 500 between them.

A busy owners’ association ( prelude-owners.info ) provides valuable back up.

The Prelude adds good accommodation to her excellent performance.

There is a double berth in the forepeak (with a WC under) and two berths in the saloon, along with a galley unit and small dining table.

Extensive use of inner mouldings means that the boat’s interior ages well, and the well-styled coachroof gives ample sitting headroom.

A Prelude owner told the owners’ association: “Our Prelude, Pela, has a fixed fin keel. 15 years ago my wife and I lived aboard her for 14 months, sailing from Bristol to Greece and back. For a couple of weeks we even had four people living aboard while in Majorca. The first three days it didn’t stop raining, and the next three days it rained every morning until 1pm!

“With all our equipment, and the unnecessary items our two guests brought out with them, it was quite a character-building event… Still, that was the last rain we saw for 17 weeks.”

Lifting keel system

David Thomas designed the Hunter Medina that was an equally successful lifting keel cruiser-racer.

Following hot on the heels of his game-changing Hunter Sonata One Design, the smaller Medina 20 went into production in 1979.

At 19ft 8in LOA, 17ft 8in LWL, 7ft 3in beam and weighing 1,890lb, the Medina has a sail area/displacement ratio of 20.31 and displacement/LWL ratio of 153.94.

So a good yet steady turn of speed is assured.

Drawing 10in to 3ft 10in, the Medina’s lifting keel system is simple compared to some of her competitors.

There’s no complex worm jack – a rope connected to a braked trailer winch mounted on a removable alloy post lifts and lowers the keel vertically.

Hunter Medina Cirrus. Credit: David Harding

Provided the lifting rope (some owners fit wire) and winch are maintained in good condition, there’s not a lot to go wrong.

The top of the keel is wider than the foil so it can’t fall through its slot. Once lowered, screw-down bolts on the top hold it rigidly in place.

The rudder blade lifts vertically in a transom mounted ‘box’, making it removable for trailing or drying out.

You can find out more at hunterassociation.org.uk and huntermedina.weebly.com

The Medina is spacious for her size.

Her two settee/quarter berths and V-berth forepeak provide sleeping space for four while a simple galley looks after catering.

A chemical WC lurks under the head of one of the forward berths.

I was delighted to hear from an owner who still sails the Medina that his father and he bought new (as a kit) in 1982.

Paul Jarman said: “We looked at lots of other possible options, but the Medina stood out as a trailer-sailer.

“We crossed the Channel several times and cruised most of the south and east coasts. Melinda was towed to Greece and Croatia by my parents when they retired; and I remember a lovely holiday on the boat in the Sporades with my wife.”

Paul also enjoyed racing the Medina, telling me: “We sailed in the Round the Island Race several times when there was a fleet of maybe 10 Medinas. She was equipped for cruising; not stripped out for racing. We now keep Melinda on shore at Emsworth, sailing around Chichester harbour with my now grown-up children.”

Paul still owns his Medina 20 that is now 40 years old – and still going strong.

Pocket cruisers: Swift 18

The Swift 18 (18ft 0in LOA, 16ft 4in LWL and 7ft 11in beam; displacing around 1,500lb) also has a surprising amount of room below with space for four berths.

And thanks to a draught of around 9in with the pivoting keel raised it’s relatively easy to launch and recover.

Alan Murphy, owner of a Swift 18 called Tiger Lily , wrote: “I also have a pair of wheels, which means that I can get to faraway places pretty quickly. Crossing the Channel is no problem inside a ferry and getting to the Mediterranean takes two or three days. Sure beats those bigger boats that have to sail via Gibraltar.”

Over several years Alan and his family crew took Tiger Lily on trailer-sailing holidays to South Brittany, the Adriatic coast, the Costa Brava, Elba, Friesland, Limjfjord (Denmark), La Charente Maritime, the south-west Baltic and the Stockholm archipelago (as featured in newsletters on Swift18.org ).

It just shows how many cruising areas versatile trailer-sailers can reach.

Swift 18, Binary Even. Credit: David Harding

Alan told me: “In the Mediterranean my two daughters (aged 12 and 16), my wife and I lived on it for several weeks.”

On the maintenance front, Alan found that when drying out on a gravel shore the pivoting keel was prone to getting a stone caught when winding it down so he carried a spare mechanism, but never had to use it.

He reckoned any capable engineering company could make a replacement mechanism if given the old one to copy.

PBO contributor Jake Frith is also a Swift 18 owner.

He wanted to upgrade from a Wayfarer dinghy to “a lift-keeler with a bit of a cabin. But something that would draw next to nothing as I hate marinas… You can get into amazing places – we spent two nights tied up to the wall in Beaulieu a couple of years ago. Nobody came and hassled us for money – try that in a boat with a bigger fixed keel… And we can get up to the quay at Keyhaven, the rocks at Chapman’s Cove, and Wareham quay…”

He occasionally sails his Swift 18 cross-Channel in the summer – with a decent forecast.

Jake said the boat has aged well thanks to the inner mouldings. But he recommends checking the foam/balsa between deck and headliner before buying.

He also plans to find a way of reducing the turbulence in the keel trunking (often found on pivoting keel designs) and in the boxy skeg behind it.

As with any elderly yacht, a bit of DIY is often on the agenda.

Jake concluded: “I’m keeping the Swift for when my son gets a bit more interested. It’s the sort of boat that when he’s 15 or 16 I can let him and his mates go off, learn to sail and explore the Solent.”

The continental contingent also has a huge presence in the field of second-hand pocket cruisers.

Very few new pocket cruisers of this size are now imported by yacht dealers into the UK.

However there’s a plethora of older lift-keel Etaps, Firsts, Jeanneaus, Micro Tonners et al available from brokers or in the classified ads.

But more on these another day.

Enjoyed reading Pocket cruisers: the best boats between 17-20ft?

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LA 28: The modern trailable boat that’s cold-molded from mahogany

• October 8, 2019

The LA 28 is a beautiful, cold-moulded wooden trailer-sailer that was designed to be unique, and has now sold nine boats across Europe. Sam Fortescue steps on board

Appropriately, it’s a long train ride through thick, thick forest before I reach the LA Yachts yard on the banks of Lake Müritz in central Germany. This seems apposite because the boat I’ve come to see is an exquisite example of how wood is just as relevant as ever when it comes to boatbuilding.

In truth, the LA 28 has little in common with the endless rows of fir that fringe the lake; she is cold-moulded from nobler stuff. But it is striking that this young shipyard chose to build in wood. I ask yard owner Lothar Fichtner why.

“It’s lighter than GRP and cheaper than carbon,” he says without blinking. So much for the romance of traditional construction, then. In fact, there’s little about this vessel the boatbuilders of 100 years ago would recognise.

Around 60kg of Sicomin epoxy is used in the lay-up. Photo: Soenke Hucho

For one, cold moulding is a technique that relies heavily on epoxy resin to stick each layer of wood to the last and sheath the whole structure to keep the water out. Then there can be as much or as little carbon in the rig and the finish as you want, while propulsion comes courtesy of a Torqeedo electric motor.

Despite her elegant tumblehome and the plunging curve of her coachroof, this is a thoroughly modern boat. “The best of modern and traditional,” Fichtner says.

The story of the LA 28 begins with the desire of a wealthy man to have a beautiful sailing toy. Lothar Fichtner was that man and, having sold his engineering business, he wanted to enjoy more of life from his second home on Mallorca.

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He approached a boatbuilder in the Muritz region called Andreas Zehle who specialised in the building of the German 20er Jollenkreuzer racing dinghy class, also cold moulded. Then he drafted in designer Martin Menzner from Berckemeyer Yacht Design in Laboe on the Kieler Fjord.

This small design house has worked on everything from dinghies to high-latitude yachts, using a range of construction materials and techniques. Crucially, Berckemeyer is strong in cold-moulded yacht design, or ‘speed strip’ as they call it.

The brief was for a trailerable 8-9m boat, that was “simple to rig, as single-handed as possible and with excellent sailing characteristics,” Fichtner explains. “I am bothered by the current development in boatbuilding. Almost all boats look the same. I wanted something exclusive that is modern in design and traditionally built.”

It takes more than 15 coats of varnish to achieve this degree of shine on the finish. Photo: Soenke Hucho

Menzner is a successful J/80 sailor himself, and the two men quickly saw eye-to-eye. The whole design process took just three months. Fichtner had no clear idea of it at the time, but he wasn’t just buying a boat, he was establishing a yard.

“I founded the shipyard because two boatbuilders were unemployed and I wanted to have a boat for my area in Germany and Mallorca,” he recalls. But one thing led to another, and Fichtner is a naturally ambitious man.

“We had a lot of success at trade fairs and continuous orders. Then I found my way into Germany’s Yacht magazine.” They have now sold nine boats since 2015, when the first garnered rave reviews at Interboat in Friedrichshafen.

Working with wood

Cold moulding requires a rough plug to be made, but no female tooling is needed, making it much cheaper to set-up than in the case of GRP or carbon. The plug around which the hull is formed is simply made from strips of softwood fastened around CNC-milled frames. It’s quick, cheap and relatively easy. The natural flexibility of the 2.5mm strips of wood used in cold moulding the hull iron out any imperfections in the mould.

The first stage of the process is to place a layer of plastic sheeting over the mould. Then the strips are bent into shape and clamped in place to hold their form. Each layer is bagged and vacuum infused with Sicomin epoxy resin, which soaks into the very top layer of the wood and helps to bond each strip edge-to-edge.

Each layer is laid in a different direction to the previous: longitudinal strips of okoume first, then lateral, then diagonal. For the outer layers, Lothar prefers African mahogany (khaya), giving a warm, reddish finish to the hull, which is many times stronger than the equivalent in glassfibre, and lighter too.

The deep curve of the tumblehome is all part of the hull shape, so it isn’t possible to mould the whole hull at the same time. Instead, there are two symmetrical plugs, one for the port side, one for starboard.

When the two halves are finished, they are simply epoxied together in the middle with a sort of low keelson covering the whole length of the joint for extra strength.

Cold moulding leads to a beautiful interior finish. Photo: Soenke Hucho

At this stage, the hull is still just a hollow form, albeit a beautiful one. Extra strength must be added next, which is achieved by ‘backfilling’ frames, ringframes and stringers – all glued into place after the event. These support the stresses of the mast, the shrouds and the keel, and provide structure for the transom, keelbox and so on.

The finish is a matter of personal taste – every owner makes their own decisions on this. Some have opted for carbon detailing; a layer of carbon epoxied around the aluminium mast post, for instance, a carbon keelbox and carbon fibre pads where the line for the retractable bowsprit passes through the companionway bulkhead into the cockpit. The mast and boom are both in carbon, with sails recommended in X-Drive carbon from UK Sailmakers.

Others have requested a white painted interior (a lot more work, observes Fichtner), or different woods used in the construction process to give a slightly different finish. The point is that every boat is unique and can be formed and specified to fit its new owner’s wishes: engine or no engine; spade rudder or transom-mounted kick-up rudder.

LA Yachts uses a very light wooden core for the tiller, then laminates it with carbon fibre. Photo: Soenke Hucho

Below the waterline the usual keel is a 600kg lead bulb, but again you can choose from a number of options. With the fixed keel there is the option of a 1.7m, 1.8m or 1.9m draught – depending on where you sail and how aggressively rigged she is.

But the hydraulic lift is proving a popular option, which reduces draught by 0.9m in the raised position. It’s a handy option for shallow waters, and makes it more feasible to land wherever the fancy takes you – perhaps with a family and a picnic basket.

True to the boat’s thoroughly modern character, Fichtner worked closely with Torqeedo in designing the LA 28 to use one of the company’s 2.5kW electric drives.

This is permanently mounted on a pod under the cockpit, but the throttle lives out of sight on a fold-down panel that pops out of one of the cave lockers. It’s a neat solution to the fact that the Torqeedo control is chunky and modern, and rather at odds with the otherworldly lines of the LA 28.

Controlled growth

The boat is resolutely designed to be simple to handle. “They sail easily and they’re very light. I can come into port by myself, and handle her myself,” Fichtner says. “With a bigger boat you always need a team – you are never alone.”

That said, there is a bigger boat on the horizon. Taking its cues from the look and handling of the LA 28, a larger 35-footer has been designed and will shortly enter the build phase. At 10.8m long, she can still be trailered, thanks to an all-up towing weight of just less than 3.5 tonnes.

“I want to invest in quality,” says Fichtner determinedly. “My dream would be to build just three boats per year.” There seems to be a preponderance of billionaires among the ownership ranks of LA Yachts, so perhaps three a year is more ambitious than it sounds.

Specification

LOA: 8.8m (28ft 11in) LWL: 8.0m (26ft 3in) Beam: 2.5m (8ft 2in) Draught: 1.7-1.9m (5ft 7in-6ft 3in) Keel raised: 0.8-1.0m (2ft 8in-3ft 3in) Displacement: 1.5 tonnes Ballast: 600kg (1,322lb) Engine: Torqeedo Cruise 2.0FP Price: €120,000 (ex. VAT)

Best Trailerable Sailboats Under 30 Feet

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

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

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

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

Table of contents

Best Sailboats Under 30' for Day Sailing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Catalina 16.5

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Norseman 17.5

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

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

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

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

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

Best Trailerable Sailboats Under 30' for Cruising

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

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

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

Catalina 22 Sport

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

West Wight Potter 19

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Which Sailboat is Right for You?

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

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

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

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

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Zabaykalsky Krai, Russia

The capital city of Zabaikalsky krai: Chita .

Zabaykalsky Krai - Overview

Zabaykalsky Krai is a federal subject of Russia located to the east and southeast of Lake Baikal, part of the Far Eastern Federal District. Chita is the capital city of the region.

The population of Zabaykalsky Krai is about 1,043,500 (2022), the area - 431,892 sq. km.

Zabaikalsky krai flag

Zabaikalsky krai coat of arms.

Zabaikalsky krai map, Russia

Zabaikalsky krai latest news and posts from our blog:.

4 April, 2021 / The snow-covered Chara Sands in Eastern Siberia .

5 February, 2019 / Chita - the view from above .

13 January, 2016 / Chara Sands - one of the smallest deserts in the world .

12 November, 2015 / Kuandinsky Bridge - one of the scariest road bridges in the world .

26 May, 2015 / Vanilla evenings of Transbaikalia .

More posts..

History of Zabaykalsky Krai

The first people inhabiting Transbaikalia, known both from archaeological finds and written sources (mainly Chinese), were the nomadic people of the Hunnu (209 BC - 93 AD), who created a large state in the Central Asian steppes. In the 6th-9th centuries, Turkic Uighurs lived in this region.

In 1206, Temujin was proclaimed the great khan of the Mongolian state and adopted a new name - Genghis Khan. The territory of the region became an integral part of the Mongol Empire. In the 14th century, the Mongolian Empire collapsed into separate states. Until the 17th century, the territory of the present Zabaykalsky krai was part of the Mongolian state of Northern Yuan.

From the middle of the 17th century, Transbaikalia became part of the Russian state. The first explorers crossed Dauria (the lands beyond Lake Baikal) along the rivers. The Buryats and Tungus, after a long resistance, recognized the new power and paid tribute to Russia. Several fortified towns were founded. Among the first colonists there were a lot of exiled old believers.

Since 1704, Nerchinsky, Shilkinsky, Gazimursky, and other silver smelters appeared. In the 18th century, the population of the region grew rapidly due to the influx of settlers and criminals, who worked in mines. Great role in the development of the region was played by the exiled members of the Decembrist uprising (brothers Bestuzhev, M.S.Lunin, N.M.Muravyov, C.G.Volkonsky, A.I.Yakubovich and others). From 1782, the region was a part of Nerchinskaya (Zabaykalskaya) Oblast of Irkutsk Governorate.

More Historical Facts…

Since the 19th century, mining was the main industry of the region. In 1851, Zabaykalskaya Oblast was formed with the capital in Chita as part of Irkutsk Governorate. In the same year, with the goal of strengthening the border, the Trans-Baikal Cossack Army was created, numbering more than 3,500 people. At the end of the 19th century, the construction of the Trans-Siberian Railway forced the economic development of the region.

At the end of the 1920s - in the early 1930s, during collectivization, Cossack settlements were destroyed, the Buryat cattle-breeders were forced to have a settled way of life. In March 1934, Chita Oblast was formed, it became a part of Vostochno-Sibirsky Krai. On September 26, 1937, Vostochno-Sibirsky Krai was divided into Irkutsk and Chita oblasts. Within Chita Oblast there was Aginsky Buryat-Mongol national district formed.

During the Second World War, tens of thousands of local residents were drafted into the Soviet army. In connection with the threat of an attack by the Kwantung Army of Japan, the Transbaikal front was established here. In 1945, after the defeat of Nazi Germany, the Soviet Union began military operations against Japan.

Until 1949, about 77 thousand Japanese prisoners of war were engaged in work to restore the region. The local economy was completely restored by the 1950s. In 1969, there was an armed conflict on the Soviet-China border close to the frontier point of Nizhne-Mikhailovka on the Damansky Island.

In the 1990s, there was a sharp decline in industrial and agricultural production. On March 1, 2008, in the territory of Chita Oblast and the Aginsky Buryat Autonomous Okrug, a new federal subject of Russia was created - Zabaykalsky Krai.

Beautiful nature of Zabaykalsky Krai

Lake in Zabaykalsky Krai

Author: Jenia Novoselov

Small river in the Zabaykalsky region

Author: Sergey Bulanov

Hilly landscape in the Zabaykalsky region

Author: Sveshnikov Alexander

Zabaykalsky Krai - Features

Zabaykalsky Krai is located in Eastern Siberia. The greatest length from north to south is about 1,000 km, from west to east - 850 km. The highest point on the territory of the region is the peak of BAM (3,073 meters). The relief is represented by both plains and mountains, but mountains are predominant in the region.

The south and south-eastern borders of Zabaykalsky Krai are the state border of the Russian Federation with Mongolia and the People’s Republic of China. The largest rivers are the Argun, Shilka, Onon, Ingoda, Khilok, Chikoy. The national composition according to the 2010 census: Russians (89.9%), Buryats (6.8%).

The climate is sharply continental. Winters are long and severe, the average temperature in January ranges from minus 20 degrees Celsius in the south to minus 37 degrees Celsius in the north. Summers are short and warm (sometimes hot), the average temperature in July - about plus 20 and 13 degrees Celsius respectively.

This region of Russia has large reserves of coals, iron ores, silver, copper, tungsten, tin, antimony, lithium, tantalum, niobium, zircon, germanium, and uranium. Forests occupy about 60% of the region. The main problem of the forest area is the annual destruction of thousands of hectares of forest by natural fires.

Mining remains the main industry of the region. Ferrous metallurgy is developed as well as machine-building, timber industry, light and food industries. Agriculture is specialized in cattle- and sheep-breeding. In the north of the region reindeer-breeding and fur trade are developed. The crops grown are wheat, barley and oats.

Tourism in Zabaykalsky Krai

The border position of Zabaykalsky Krai promotes the rapid development of cross-border tourism. It has become the main “tourist gateway” for tourists coming from the Asia-Pacific region. The territory of the Zabaykalsky region has a wide variety of natural landscapes, unique monuments of nature.

Sports tourism with elements of extreme has always been attractive for tourists: rafting (the Burkal, Menza, Onon rivers), rock climbing, horseback riding, and bicycle travel. For these purposes more than 100 sports and tourist routes have been developed.

Ethno-tourism is associated with the culture of small peoples, such as the Evenks. Tours on reindeer are held. Chita, Nerchinsk, Sretensk, Petrovsk-Zabaikalsky, and Shilka have the status of historical settlements. On the territory of Zabaykalsky Krai ancient settlements of the Huns were discovered. The events attracting guests include the Trans-Baikal International Film Festival, the tourist festival on Kodar.

The main sights of Zabaykalsky Krai:

• Alkhanay National Park in Duldurginsky district - the only place in Russia where a harmonious system of cult Buddhist and natural monuments has been created;
• Krasniy Chikoy, the center of Krasnochikoysky district, is one of the oldest and most beautiful villages in the region;
• Mineral springs. The nearest mineral spring to Chita is Molokovka, a good place for taking pictures in nature;
• Mount Pallasa, located near Chita, is a monument of nature of regional importance;
• Zabaykalsky Alps - Kodar. In the north of the region there is an amazing country of contrasts and surprises - Charskaya depression with the surrounding mountain ranges. It is known for such monuments of nature as Kodar ridge with the highest point of Transbaikalia, Chara Sands - a miniature desert 10 km long;
• Lake Arey - a hydrological monument of nature, one of the favorite places for recreation. The lake is located in a picturesque forest area near the highway Chita-Khilok;
• Haatei Caves - two caves connected by a narrow passage. The first cave is called Ice, in winter, when water flows into the cave and freezes, you can see very beautiful patterns there. The second cave is considered a summer cave and is called Dry;
• Butinskaya Estate in Nerchinsk - the main attraction of this historical town;
• Old-Chita Mikhailo-Arkhangelsk Church (also known as Church of the Decembrists) is the oldest building in Chita where a museum dedicated to the Decembrists is located;
• Museum of the Decembrists in the town of Petrovsk-Zabaikalsky;
• Konduisky settlement - one of the monuments of Genghis Khan’s epoch.

Zabaikalsky krai of Russia photos

Pictures of zabaykalsky krai.

Nature of Zabaykalsky Krai

Author: Roman Tarnovsky

Winter in Zabaykalsky Krai

Author: Svetlana Shapiro

Country road in the Zabaykalsky region

Author: Fedotov Alex

Zabaykalsky Krai scenery

Creek in Zabaykalsky Krai

Country life in Zabaykalsky Krai

Village in Zabaykalsky Krai

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