best sailboat 2022

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Sailboat of the Year 2022

What are the best sailboats this year? Crusing World and Sail Magazine both put together a list a few months back of their best sailboats and catamarans. This article will combine these lists and find which sailboats came out on top of their peers this year.

Nominees for best sailboat of 2022 include:

• Bavaria C38
• Beneteau First 27
• Grand Soleil 44
• Hallberg-Rassy 340
• Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 380
• Jeanneau Yachts 60

Judges for the best boat of the year 2022 look for a combination of sailing performance and cruising comforts.

Before we get to the best sailboat or the year , let’s highlight our favorite sailboats from the line up (in order from largest to smallest LOA).

Dufour 470 – Long-Distance Cruising in Mind

This upper 40-foot cruising yacht is designed to be stylish, comfortable, and easy for long-distance cruising. It comes in three versions – easy use, ocean sailing, and racing.

LOA 45ft 11in BEAM 15ft 6in DRAFT 7ft 4in DISPLACEMENT 29,101lb SAIL AREA 1,151ft2 Dufour, Image courtesy of dufour-yachts.com

Moody DS 41 – Innovation for Cruising

The Moody Deck Salon is a an innovation that you’ll either love or hate. The bold deck-level salon harkens to the design of a catamaran, and it provides a safe from weather interior helm station. The large fiberglass bulwarks appear to be taken from motor yachts. This sailboat is hearty option for those wanting protection from the elements.

LOA 41ft 1in BEAM 13ft 11in DRAFT 7ft 6in DISPLACEMENT 25,574lb SAIL AREA 893ft2 Moody, Image courtesy of hanseyachtsag.com/moody/us

Sun Odyssey 380 – New Lines and Designs

This sailboat and best boat of the year nominee says good-bye to all tradition and hello to new designs. At first glance you’ll see the full-length chines in the hull designed to give more space down below without supersizing the beam. Additionally, the chines provide straight lines to aid in tracking, which can be helpful in offshore swells. Twin rudders also help the boat “grab” the water. And this mast has no backstay, which opens up space for a large squared main- sure to bring the velocity on those smooth seas days.

LOA 38ft 6in BEAM 12ft 3in DRAFT 6ft 6in (std.); 5ft 3in (shoal); 4ft 2in (lifting keel retracted) DISPLACEMENT 15,203lb (std. keel) SAIL AREA 704ft2 (with 110% genoa) Jeanneau Yachts, Image courtesy of jeanneauamerica.com

Oceanis 34 – A Modern Pocket Cruiser

There was a time when a 34 foot sailboat was large for ocean cruisers – It would be known as a “pocket cruiser”. This modern sailboat is designed for simplicity, light air sailing, and cruising couples or bay adventurers who love to entertain. Sailing is sure to fast and easy with twin rudders, integrated bow sprit for light air sails, and a self-tacking jib.

LOA 35ft 4in BEAM 11ft 9in DRAFT 6ft 7in (std.); 4ft 11in (shoal); 4ft 1in (retractable keel up) DISPLACEMENT 12,046lb SAIL AREA 531ft2 Beneteau, Image courtesy of beneteau.com

Best Boat of the Year Awards 2022

Which sailboat was the best? Depends on who you ask.

Cruising World Best Boat of the Year : Hylas 57

Sail Magazine Best Sailboat Under 40 Feet : Sun Odyssey 380

Sail Magazine Best Sailboat 40-50 Feet : Elan GT6

What do you think? Are these the best boats? What would you choose?

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2022 Boat of the Year: Best Dinghy

• By Dave Reed
• December 17, 2021

Sailing World Magazine’s annual Boat of the Year tests are conducted in Annapolis, Maryland, following the US Sailboat Show. With independent judges exhaustively inspecting the boats on land and putting them through their paces on the water, this year’s fleet of new performance-sailing boats spanned from small dinghies to high-tech bluewater catamarans. Here’s the best of the best from our 2022 Boat of the Year nominees »

Skeptics be warned: The Happy Cat Hurricane is legit. This is the unanimous assessment from our Boat of the Year judging squad after sailing the surprisingly quick and nimble 16-foot inflatable catamaran in 10 knots of breeze. While it delivers exhilarating sailing, it’s much more than a recreational rubber dinghy—it’s an adventure craft, a portable sailboat, a pontoon motorboat, a lazy-river drifter, or anything you want it to be once it’s pumped and splashed.

Grabner is an Austrian manufacturer of all types of inflatable watercraft, which the company has been building since the mid-1980s. The Happy Cat Hurricane came online in 2017, and a carbon-mast version was added in 2019. The Hurricane Carbon, which the judges tested, is the company’s flagship go-fun craft, and apparently, it can’t make them fast enough.

We racers know fiberglass better than we do rubber, but Alex Caslow, of Redbeard Sailing in Baltimore (the US importer), says Grabner’s vulcanized rubber is “tire-quality” and sourced from Continental. All of the Happy Cat’s tubes, he adds, are handmade, glued and welded in Austria, producing high-quality hulls that should last at least 20 years. There’s a seven-year warranty on the hulls, he says, but should you ever need to, $2,000 is your replacement price (per hull). The all-up price for a new boat, with everything you need to go racing or gunkholing, is currently $15,000.

The magic to keeping the Happy Cat’s tubular platform stiff is the anodized aluminum frame that holds it all together. Tension cables crisscrossed beneath the trampolines provide additional stiffness in waves. The frame also serves as attachment points for the trampolines, which are clipped on rather than laced like most catamaran tramps.

The boat, Caslow says, can be assembled in roughly 40 minutes—from taken out of the storage bags to inflated and sails hoisted. Upgrading from the standard manual pump to a 12-volt air pump accelerates the process, of course.

Bags? That’s right. The entire boat and rig fit into four bags collectively small enough to transport in the average-size car trunk. This portability is its primary selling point, especially in Europe, where hundreds of owners and devotees regularly gather to rally and raid on alpine lakes and coastal enclaves. Its second selling point is that it sails as well as most fiberglass recreational catamarans.

“It definitely caught my eye when we first walked up to it,” Chuck Allen says. “The bright-red hulls, the carbon rig, all the ropes, but especially the interesting setup with the rudder and centerboard being on centerline. I’d never sailed a catamaran with a centerboard.

“The hulls are really firm—they feel just like a RIB tube, and all the aluminum framing and wires are nice quality. I was really curious how it would sail, and believe it or not, it sailed like a champ.”

Greg Stewart says his first impression was one of skepticism as well. “It seemed like it would be one of those boats that looked cool on land but would let us down, but it didn’t at all. It sailed amazingly. It tacked well enough that I didn’t have to backwind the jib, and got up to speed again quickly.”

The ability to tack it like a dinghy, Stewart says, is because of the centerboard and because the rudder is mounted in the best place possible. “What makes it steer so well is the rudder is so far aft, which gives you a nice turning moment between it and the centerboard.”

The centerboard has up/down lines that are led to the front beam and cam cleats, but there is a breaker line in case you get into shallow waters. The centerboard casing also acts as an anchor point for the dolphin striker.

The reverse “wave-piercing” bows have a lot of buoyancy down low, Stewart adds. When he was sailing upwind through chop, they “just want to lift and rise up over the wave.” If flying a hull gets a bit too unnerving, he says, a small ease on the mainsheet or a slight bear away makes the boat settle right down with a soft and pillowy landing. Stewart forgot to conduct the obligatory capsize test, but he said afterward that the boat tended to simply slip sideways if the weather hull got too high. The optional masthead float, however, would be a good choice for peace of mind, he says.

“There’s a great sensation of speed,” Powlison reports, especially with the 91-square-foot gennaker. “The Velocitek SpeedPuck that was on the boat was reading 10 to 11 knots regularly, and it wasn’t hard at all to tack or jibe either. The spinnaker clew is pretty high, and the boomless square-top mainsail (124 square feet) makes it really easy to get across the boat.”

“This boat rips,” was Allen’s final assessment. He gave it high marks all around, but what ultimately stole his favor was a browse through Grabner’s catalog, which showcased the Happy Cat’s versatility: Leave the mast in its bag, erect the optional sun awning, and slap on the outboard motor bracket to transform it into an outboard-powered exploration craft and swimming platform. Or strap on extra fore and aft trampolines, load the boat up with camping gear in dry bags, and explore new places.

“Its biggest appeal really is its portability,” Stewart says. “If you don’t have easy access to a yacht club or storage near the water, you can easily keep this in the garage or apartment without taking up much space at all. Throw it in the car and take it wherever you want.”

Assembly, Caslow says, is simple and quick once the hulls are inflated. The tubes slide into grooves in the frame, tension cables are clipped on with carabiners, the trampoline is strapped on, and the mast can be raised by one person once it’s pinned onto the ball joint.

When it’s assembled, the Hurricane Carbon is only 175 pounds, but it is still a bit unwieldy for solo ramp launching. For this particular challenge, Grabner offers flip-up “slip wheels” that mount to the aft beam and stay on the boat while sailing. With your standard big-wheeled catamaran dolly, however, it’s easy to move around and beach-launch. And once you’re underway and zipping along, crew extended on the wire and the soft bounce of the hull on your bottom, you’ll just want to keep on sailing—happy as a cat on nip.

• More: Boat of the Year , Boat of the Year 2022 , Sailboats
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8 Great New Sailboats for 2022

Table of Contents

Last Updated on November 10, 2022 by Boatsetter Team

Fall boat shows highlight the latest launches, and there’s much to see if you’re contemplating purchasing a new sailboat. Whether monohull, catamaran or trimaran, exciting new designs are landing on US shores from Europe and South Africa. Here’s a preview of what you’ll be seeing on the water soon – maybe even in peer-to-peer rental programs like Boatsetter .

• Beneteau Oceanis 34.1
• Balance Catamarans 442
• Nautitech 44 Open
• Fountaine Pajot Tanna 47

Already Own a Sailboat? Earn an Average of $20K by Renting it Out on Boatsetter

1. Beneteau Oceanis 34.1

Beneteau’s Oceanis 34.1 shed 2,000 pounds and a few inches on the beam over her predecessor and added 29% more sail area for better performance in light air. There are three keel options, including a hydraulically lifting keel (4’ 1” – 8’ 4” with no bulb) that will deliver good performance. Outfitting is versatile with three levels of sail packages available, including the highest “Upwind/Downwind” option that includes a Code 0, extra winches and jammers, and a bowsprit. Now you can really get this little demon going.

• Estimated MSRP :$188,000

Visit Beneteau to Learn More

2. Dufour 37

The Dufour 37 borrows many features from her bigger sibling, the Dufour 470, including the bowsprit, large hatches, and a fantastic deck layout. This model also has an all new hull with a greater power/weight ratio and a taller mast for an increased sail area and better performance. Like her predecessor, the Dufour 360, the 37 has a single rudder , so she’s lively and responsive, but she still sports twin wheels for a friendlier cockpit layout. Her LOA is below 37 feet, but you’d never know it in how she feels on deck or below or in how she sails.

• Estimated MSRP :$275,000

Visit Dout Yachts to Learn More

3. Hanse 460

The Hanse 460 looks like a speed demon and sails like a witch, but she’s quite a comfortable family cruiser. With accommodations for up to 10 in five cabins, the 460 will perfectly fit private ownership and charter. A self-tacking jib simplifies short-handed sailing, but her 1,227 square feet of sail and a slippery hull designed by Berret-Racoupeau will make her a contender in club competitions. Best of all, her beam and integrated hardtop provide protection from the elements and make her feel almost like a catamaran.

• Estimated MSRP :$284,000

Visit Hanse Yachts to Learn More

4. Balance Catamarans 442

The 442 is Balance Catamarans’ latest answer to a performance multihull designed to carry a good turn of speed on all points of sail, including upwind with the foiled daggerboards. A self-tacking rig and 1,205 square feet of sail area guarantee easy sailing with good light wind performance. Rumor has it that 30 orders were taken before the first unit was out of the factory, so there’s much buzz around this new model from South Africa. The VersaHelm is the star feature where you can drive from up high or down low where it’s warm and dry.

• Estimated MSRP :$820,000

Visit Balance Catamarans to Learn More

5. Nautitech 44 Open

Naval architect Marc Lombard teamed with designer Christophe Chedal Anglay to create the new Nautitech 44 Open cat and it’s one good-looking boat. The bows are curved and slightly reversed, there are dual chines on the hulls, the windows are angular, and the coachroof is low, sleek, and angled upward in the aft sections, an effect that adds the perception of movement even at rest. Able to sail 9-10 knots in 15-20 knots of true wind, this bluewater cat will keep owners happy around the harbor or around the globe.

• Estimated MSRP :$622,000

Visit Nautitech Catamarans to Learn More

6. Fountaine Pajot Tanna 47

A truly spacious cat, the Tanna 47 is all about the room, from the large cabins to the inviting main deck and up to the enhanced flybridge . The new design is made for large groups, and she’s bound to be a hit in the charter, especially with her large solar panel array that will keep all the toys and refrigeration humming. Cabin arrangements are flexible, from an owner’s version with a sumptuous suite to a five-cabin layout that will easily accommodate ten guests.

• Estimated MSRP :$1,051,000

Visit Fountaine Catamarans to Learn More 

7. Lagoon 55

With the new Lagoon 55 (the last 55 was launched 35 years ago), naval architects VPLP (the same one used for the original 55) teamed with designer Patrick Le Quément to dial in a good-looking boat with lots of amenities and lounge areas. This model replaces the popular Lagoon 52, and she’s all about big boat entertaining from the flybridge to the foredeck. Up to 12 can be seated for dinner, and the entire cockpit is designed to encourage relaxing and watching the world in your wake .

• Estimated MSRP :$2,500,000

Visit Lagoon Boats to Learn More

When even two hulls aren’t enough, consider a trimaran like the swanky Neel 43. This French builder has turned the concept of cruising trimarans on its ear with a spacious multihull that reels off the miles since it’s 6,000 pounds lighter than most cats of the same length. She’ll sail 10 knots in a 14- knot breeze with a lower wetted surface area, especially when the windward ama lifts clear of the waves. Accommodations include three cabins, a single head , and the option to upgrade to a 48-volt power system with lithium batteries and an Integral alternator that eliminates the need for a traditional generator.

• Estimated MSRP :$398,000

Visit Neel Trimarans to Learn More

Sharing Sails

To help offset the purchase price and ongoing costs of premium sailboats such as these, some owners are opting to charter their boats via outfits like Boatsetter, which can make ownership much more manageable. New boats are selling fast, so find your dream cruiser and then share the sailing with family, friends, and guests.

Zuzana Prochazka is an award-winning freelance journalist and photographer with regular contributions to more than a dozen sailing and powerboating magazines and online publications including Southern Boating, SEA, Latitudes & Attitudes and SAIL. She is SAIL magazines Charter Editor and the Executive Director of Boating Writers International. Zuzana serves as judge for SAIL’s Best Boats awards and for Europe’s Best of Boats in Berlin. 

A USCG 100 Ton Master, Zuzana founded and manages a flotilla charter organization called Zescapes that takes guests adventure sailing at destinations worldwide. 

Zuzana has lived in Europe, Africa and the United States and has traveled extensively in South America, the islands of the South Pacific and Mexico. 

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Boat of the Year Finalists for 2022

• By Kevin Falvey
• October 24, 2022

Boating ’s editors test more than 100 boats per year in just about every category. During 2022, our editors once again tested more than 100 boats, including PWC, 16-foot-long runabouts, cruisers, dayboats, and center-console boats in excess of 50 feet length overall.

We tested gas boats, diesel boats, electric boats, jet boats, outboard boats, inboard boats, sterndrive boats and surface-drive boats. We exceeded 150 mph on the water, and we cruised at displacement speeds. V-hull boats represented the lion’s share of our test pool, but we also ran plenty of catamarans in addition to some RIBs, a proa and even a hydrofoil. Coupled with our editors nearly 200 years of combined experience testing boats, this provides the Boating Tech Team with a river of experience that is broad and deep.

Each year, we apply that experience and select the most coveted award in recreational boating: the Boat of the Year (BOTY). Candidates must stand out in the category in which they reside or in the mission they are intended to fulfill. We do not pit a sport-fisher against a wakeboat, for example. Rather, if a wakeboat strikes us as a candidate, we assess how it innovates in that realm. So, the Boat of the Year is the boat that stands out in its category more than any other boat we tested stands out in any other category.

We announce the Boat of the Year winner in January. The five boats here are the 2022 BOTY finalists and themselves represent great boats for the missions in which they serve. Which boat will be the Boat of the Year? Find out in January.

Read Next:   Learn more about Boat of the Year!

Malibu Wakesetter 21 LX

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Taiga Orca PWC

Billed as the world’s first electric-powered PWC, we found its direct-drive simple to operate and discovered that it does not exhibit the idle steering issues of lag between forward, neutral and reverse that plague many PWC. Its lightweight carbon-fiber composite hull helps maximize efficiency.

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Offering 600 hp, currently the most for a jet runabout, this boat proved quieter than others during our testing. We also liked that the BRP engines can be adjusted to stop the annoying “spin and creep” evidenced at idle by other jet boats. Uniquely for jet boats, custom vinyl, flooring and gelcoat are available.

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Sea-Doo Switch

Here’s a boat that gets a family afloat for under $30,000, is trailerable with a midsize car, and is so truly easy to pilot and dock with handle-bar steering that it opens the world of recreational boating to a wider audience. Its customizable interior, with removable seats and accessories, lets owners set it up to suit the day.

Read Next: 2022 Sea-Doo Switch 21 Cruise

Solace 415CS

This diesel-powered center-console delivers superior range and seakeeping compared to its outboard-powered counterpart, which we documented side by side during a 400-mile round-trip cruise to the Bahamas Out Islands. The jack-shafted Volvo Penta Aquamatic system allows for the inclusion of an electric motor to make this a hybrid-powered vessel.

Read Next: 2022 Solace 415CS

• More: Boat of the Year , boat-year , Boats , Malibu , November/December 2022 , Scarab Boats , Sea-Doo , Solace Boats , Taiga

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10 Best Sailboats To Live In

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

Living aboard a sailboat is an exciting lifestyle choice, but there are lots of considerations you’ll need to make.

‍ First and foremost, you have to pick a boat to live in. Unless you plan on sleeping under a canvas tarp, it’s essential to find a sailboat with a proper cabin.

Cabin sailboats became common in the United States during the early 20th century, but size and amenities vary widely between boats.  

For example, early wooden sailboats generally featured very sparse accommodations below, typically consisting of a pipe berth, oil lamps, a coal-fired stove and a bucket privy—typically without standing headroom.

Fortunately, the majority of cabin sailboats came with a lot more than a bucket to wash with.

In this article, we’ll go over some of the most important considerations to make when choosing a sailboat to live on . After, we’ll give a top-ten list of the best used liveaboard sailboats you can buy today.

Table of contents

Why Live Aboard a Sailboat?

Thousands of people choose to live aboard their sailboats.  It’s an alternative lifestyle with a host of benefits for those willing to deal with the added challenges.  

Liveaboards can move their entire house on the water, and it’s typically cheaper to live on a boat than in a traditional house.

This is especially true in major waterfront cities, where rent in the same area as the marina can be several times more expensive.  

Some people love the marina lifestyle, and others travel the world.  All-in-all, living aboard a sailboat can be a rewarding, enriching, and financially-freeing lifestyle choice.

What to Consider when Buying a Liveaboard Sailboat

The most important thing to consider when buying a liveaboard sailboat is what level of accommodation you need.

Some people aren’t bothered by limited amenities; in fact, many traditional sailors prefer a stripped-down and basic sailboat interior. However, many others appreciate useful features such as electric toilets and a full galley.

You can find virtually every creature comfort on board a modern sailboat, so it’s up to you to decide what level of convenience you expect. ‍

For most people, a standard cruising sailboat interior from after 1970 will suffice, as these typically include a usable galley, shower, head, and ventilation.

Offshore VS Coastal Cruising Accommodations

Sailboat interior design is dependent on certain criteria, such as the sailboat’s intended use. Long-distance cruising sailboats have cabins arranged to suit such a journey.

Long-distance sailboats usually remove any unnecessary furniture or extras down below to increase storage, and sleeping options are altered to ensure easy access, which allows the crew to regain control of the boat in a pinch.

Coastal cruisers tend to feature a more luxurious layout, with larger sofas and more complex interior features. Additionally, storage space is generally reduced to allow for the inclusion of other amenities.

Whichever style you choose should reflect both how you plan to use your boat and what level of comfort you need.

What Makes A Great Liveaboard Sailboat?

For this article, we’ve outlined a few requirements which we believe identify an excellent liveaboard sailboat :

• Standing headroom (at least 5’10”)

While many people live aboard boats without standing headroom, it’s still a nice feature to have.  Months or years spent crawling or crouching can wreak havoc on your back and body, so standing headroom is a necessity in this list.

• 120V AC availability

Electricity is a definite requirement for our liveaboard list.  Boats without 120V AC outlets present major challenges to liveaboards, as there’s no way to charge most computers or cell phones.  Some boats feature a 12V outlet, but full-time liveaboard boats should have standard house connections for electricity.

• Galley facilities

Unless you plan on eating out every day, a galley is a must for our list.  We define an adequate galley as a facility with a sink, ice box or refrigerator, and a stove.  An oven is an added bonus, but one can usually be added along with a new stove.

• Electric lighting

Electric lighting is a matter of both safety and convenience aboard boats.  There’s nothing wrong with kerosene lamps; many sailors adorn their boats with them.  However, a long-term liveaboard boat should feature safe and reliable electric lighting.

• Toilet with plumbing

Sanitation facilities are vital on board a sailboat, especially if you live on it.  Improper human waste storage and disposal will spread awful diseases.  Plus, nobody wants to live on a stinky boat or use a porta-potty all year long.  We required each of our ten boats to have built-in and properly outfitted toilets, plus safe storage tanks for pumping out later.

Bathing facilities are also a must on most liveaboard sailboats.  However, many liveaboards opt not to use their on-board showers in favor of marina or gym facilities.  That being said, it is very convenient to have a shower on your boat.  Keep in mind, some boat showers drain directly into the bilge.  If you use your onboard shower, be sure to keep the bilge pump in working order and remember that anything you put in the drain ends up below your floor.

• Separate seating spaces

We think a liveaboard sailboat should have extra sitting spaces on board, apart from the main bed.  A place for sitting, eating, working, and navigating is essential when living aboard long-term, and the added convenience of a separate space will make day-to-day activities much more enjoyable.

• Ventilation

Last but not least, we believe ventilation is essential for any liveaboard sailboat.  This is the simplest of requirements, as a passive solar roof vent or opening porthole should be sufficient.  In short, there should be a way to let fresh air in without opening a main hatch.

Top 10 Liveaboard Sailboats

Here’s a list of the top ten liveaboard sailboats that you can purchase used today.

These are in no particular order, but each boat meets or exceeds the requirements of a great liveaboard sailboat.

Remember, the features listed for each of these boats could vary based on age or trim, so be sure to check back to this list when inspecting a boat.

Without further ado, here’s ten of the greatest liveaboard sailboats ever produced.

1. Catalina 30

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The Catalina 30 is one of the most common production cruising sailboats ever.

Thousands of these reliable and robust fiberglass boats still sail, despite the fact that they first entered the market in 1972.

This 30-foot boat features a modern and spacious interior, with all the accommodations you’d expect on a boat its size.

Most models feature a large and useful galley, along with running water supplied by electric pumps.

The Catalina 30 also featured a ‘suite’ layout, with a master bedroom V-Berth closed off to the rest of the cabin by a door.

An enclosed shower and head make it a pleasant boat to live on.

The layout of the Catalina 30 also featured a dinette, which serves as an excellent chart table or workspace as well.

2. Islander 36

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The Islander 36 is a well-rounded liveaboard sailboat which also has impressive cruising capabilities.

While manufacturing ceased in the 1980s, the I-36 was the company’s best-selling model with nearly a thousand built.

Islander boats are known for some well-adorned cabins, and many featured elegant wooden interior trim.

Like the Catalina 30, the Islander 36 includes an enclosed head with a shower and flush toilet.

The interior layout of the I-36 is spacious and well-designed, featuring a long port and starboard settee which folds out into a double-berth for sleeping.

An enclosed shower and spacious master berth make it a very well-rounded option for cruising and living aboard.

3. Contessa 32

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Contessa Yachts produced their venerable 32-foot cruising and racing sailboat from 1970 until 1990, but custom boatbuilders still manufacture the yacht today.

It’s well-known for cruising capabilities, but it has a lot to offer as a liveaboard as well.

The traditional cabin is thoughtfully designed, featuring a fold-up table in the center of the cabin floor.

The spatially conscious design of the Contessa 32 makes it an excellent option for the no-frills and organized sailor.

This vessel features a separate master bedroom, along with a head and shower in the hallway between the compartments.

4. Pearson 34

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Pearson produced their excellent 34-foot sailboat during the 1980s. This medium-sized cruising yacht features an extremely spacious interior with plenty of floor space to move around.

The layout is complex, but not overwhelming. The galley nook is functional and features convenient overhead storage for utensils giving it a ‘home-y’ feeling.

The head is enclosed and spacious, including a bathroom sink and mirror.

The separate master bedroom is also enclosed with ample clothing storage throughout.

Out of all the boats listed so far, the Pearson 34 should feel most like a traditional living space to most people.

If the Pearson 34 seems a little too compact, be sure to read on and check out the next two boats on the list.

5. Nordic 40

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So far the largest boat on our list, the Nordic 40 is a super-capable offshore cruiser with excellent liveaboard facilities.

This relatively rare boat features an extremely spacious interior, which is more than ample for a couple to live comfortably.

Standing headroom throughout, a spacious master bedroom, along with a nearly full galley allows for superbly comfortable living in any climate or region.

The extra storage aboard makes remote living possible, so owners can anchor out for weeks or months at a time with enough provisions to last.

While this boat isn’t very common, it’s still worth keeping an eye out for it while searching for a liveaboard sailboat .

6. Peterson 44

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The Peterson 44 is what’s known as a ‘center-cockpit cruiser,’ featuring a split-cabin both fore and aft.

This spacious interior layout maximizes living space without decreasing sailing capabilities.

The boat features a master bedroom and bathroom, along with another cabin, berth, and head behind the cockpit.

In addition to two bathrooms, it features a full galley, booth dinette, and settee.

All these extras combined with excellent storage make it an excellent liveaboard option.

Pearson is well-renowned for building excellent boats, and their interior quality is above average.

7. Nor’Sea 27

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The Nor’Sea 27 is a classic compact sailboat, which is ideal for minimalist or single people living aboard.

The interior is surprisingly spacious for its size, featuring all the amenities you’d expect on a larger boat.

This beautiful little boat likely mimics the comfort of a Catalina 30, and should cost less in slip fees.

The interior features a toilet, shower, and galley.

The forward berth converts into a dinette but features two other bunks underneath the cockpit.

Production of the Nor’Sea 27 began in 1976, and it’s still produced today.

And the best part—you can legally tow it on a trailer. It’s arguably the ultimate compact cruiser/liveaboard available today.

{{boat-info="/boats/cal-34"}}

The Cal 34 is very typical of mid-range sailboats of the 1970s. Produced between 1968 and 1975, this basic but comfortable yacht has a lot of potential as a liveaboard.

The interior is simple and spacious, without much luxury or adorning. However, less features make for less maintnence, and everything you’d need is available in the Cal 34.

A master bedroom, shower, and toilet are all standard, along with a well-arranged galley and comfortable sitting area.

The boat features ample storage for clothes, food, and gear.

All mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems aboard are easy to maintain, plus the cabin is well-designed.

9. Catalina 38

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Another classic Catalina sailboat makes the list, with a well-thought-out interior that’s spacious enough for a couple to live comfortably.

Catalina produced their 38-foot sloop between 1977 and 1990, and it came standard with many excellent liveaboard features such as electrical outlets throughout the cabin.

Also, the head is spacious and includes a sink, which is always very convenient.

With plenty of places to sleep, there’s no need to fold away the galley table to get some rest.

The Catalina 38 is another fantastic mid-sized sailboat for living aboard, especially if you aren’t quite comfortable inside a Catalina 30.

10. Hunter 33

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The last boat on our list is also one of the longest-lived in its category. Hunter produced their 33-foot sailboat starting in 1977, and it’s still in production today.

This handy mid-sized boat features excellent interior accommodations, with plenty of sitting and sleeping areas to choose from.

In addition to a full dinette, it features a toilet and shower aft away from the master bedroom.  Such an arrangement is a great option for sailors, as it allows the use of the head without moving too far away from the controls.

Standing headroom throughout the long cabin makes for a very comfortable long-term living arrangement.

The galley has plenty of storage space and the L-shaped layout allows for easy and efficient use.

At the end of the day, you’ll get to choose the liveaboard sailboat that works best for you. Check out some of the boats we mentioned and get an idea of what they offer.

Use this list to help identify features that you need, and perhaps avoid features that you don’t want.

When it comes to living aboard, there’s a lot more to consider than just your boat. As long as the boat you choose is in good condition, you’ll likely end up falling in love with it.

Either way, consider these top-ten liveaboard sailboats when you’re on the hunt for your boat.

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Reviewing the Best Sailboats for 2024

Eagle Class 53

Catalina 22 Sport

For some, there are fewer things in the world that trump the sheer joy you get from enjoying some water sports . There’s something so surreal about floating in the middle of the sea, surrounded by water on all sides stretching out to infinity. It’s truly a sight to behold.

Now, if you thought the feeling you get onboard a basic motor-powered boat was exhilarating, you haven’t had the sailboat experience . There’s no better way to enjoy nature than cruising stealthily through the water silently, using nothing but the wind to propel you forward.

Now, that, ladies and gentlemen, is how you take in the majesty and magnificence of the sea.

If you’re in the market for a new boat, we’ve put together a comprehensive review of the best sailboats, as well as a buying guide to help you pick the right one.

The Eagle Class 53 is specially designed to deliver the high performance of a competitive racing beast to the recreational user. Its core is all-carbon and is capable of achieving top speeds of 25 to 35 knots in light wind conditions.

For a leisurely weekend cruise on the open water, the Eagle has a pretty spacious cockpit that’s outfitted with a hard-carbon bimini to keep the sun out on hot days. It offers plenty of padded seating and even comes with an onboard wet bar aft. It doesn’t get any better than that.

 Fast forward composites  →

● Has a carbon-fiber wing that can rotate 360 degrees ● Ideal for competitive and recreational sailing ● Hybrid wing allows for excellent control even in high winds

● The aft-helm configuration may impede the visibility of the opposite bow

You don’t have to break the bank to become a sailboat owner, nor do you have to settle for a used one either. You can get a fantastic sailboat that’s fresh-off-the-factory and fully-loaded with all the latest gear and boating accessories, for anywhere between $20,000 and $100,000.

The Catalina 22 Sport is a prime example of a swanky-looking sailboat that costs under $40,000. It comes with a retractable keel and is ideal for family racing. Its standard features include a roller-furling jib, fractional rig, in addition to an open cabin that has enough room to sleep a small family of four. It also comes with an efficient mast-raising system for easy launching.

● Great value for money ● Ideal for small families ● Efficient mast-raising system

● Interior upholstery looks a bit dated

Tiwal 3 (Best Inflatable Sailboat)

If you’re new to the sailing world, an inflatable sailboat might be what you need to get started. They are lightweight, easy to store, and don’t cost nearly as much as conventional sailboats do.

Tiwal 3 is a great option for both kids and adults. The hull is high-pressure inflated, making it almost as rigid as a regular epoxy one. It has a 56-foot squared sail that can withstand high winds of up to force 4 and offers a surprising amount of power for its mast height.

● Affordable ● Ideal for beginners ● Compact and portable

● Does not come with comfort and convenience amenities

Beneteau Oceanis 38 Weekender (Best Weekender Sailboat)

The best thing about a weekender is the fact that it allows you to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life to spend a couple of days on the water. The Beneteau Oceanis 38 Weekender is the perfect sailboat for this.

It comes with the option of a two/three-cabin plan, fitted galley, helmsman’s seats, shower, and an additional inside/outside table. The saloon and the master stateroom are separated by a removable bulkhead that can be installed to partition the space if you need more privacy.

 Beneteau  →

● Ideal for a family weekend getaway ● Beautiful interior fittings ● Removable bulkhead for added privacy

● May not be suitable for an extended stay

Marlow-Hunter 22 (Best Daysailer)

If you’re not looking for a 30-foot plus sailboat with a galley and built-in bunks, then a daysailer is precisely what you need to hit the open ocean, enjoy a day out, and head back home when you’re done. The Marlow-Hunter 22 is the perfect daysailer for you and your family/friends, with excellent overnighting capability if you need it.

It has a big enough cockpit for the crew and can comfortably accommodate up to five people at any given time. Standard features include a laminated fiberglass deck and hull, twin bunks, a hydraulic raising centerboard, and non-skid flooring.

 Marlow Hunter  →

● Perfect for day sailing ● Has overnighting capability ● It is quite affordable compared to other sailboats in its class

● Sleeping quarters can get a bit cramped

Hobie Mirage Adventure Island (Best Multihull Sailboat)

The Hobie Mirage Adventure Island is a multihull sailboat built for adventure. It has a built-in retractable centerboard that comes in handy to prevent lateral slip, and a 16-foot long vertically-battened mainsail to give you the lift you need to propel you forward.

You might also like the built-in multiple storage hatches for long days spent out on the water and the fully-adjustable Vantage CT Seating for extra comfort. Standard features include roller furling mainsails, ST Turbo kick-up fins, pivoting crossbars, and outriggers for added stability on the water.

● Easy to transport and launch ● Paddling option for non-windy days on the lake ● Molded-in rod-holders are perfect for anglers

● Not designed for very tall individuals, particularly when the sail is furled

Living on the water and cruising around the world is, no doubt, an exciting lifestyle. Now, unless you intend to sleep under a canvas tarp, you need to get a sailboat that has a proper cabin. The Oyster 745 is one of the best liveaboard sailboats we’ve come across so far.

Standard features include a spacious owner’s cabin, four double en-suite guest cabins, crew quarters, forced air ventilation, a flush teak deck, ample storage, large tankage, and lots more. It also has a Cummins turbocharged engine, which comes in handy during windless days.

 Oyster  →

● Spacious enough for a large family and small crew ● Excellent ventilation ● Has an engine for windless days

● Price is on the higher end of the spectrum

West Wight Potter 19 (Best Trailerable Sailboat)

If you’re looking for a small sailboat that you can easily tow from your house to the sea, the West Wight Potter 19 is the ultimate trailer cruiser. It offers exceptional stability and handling and looks stunning while doing it.

It is designed with a fully retractable galvanized keel, which makes it ideal for going ashore in remote areas. Standard interior features include four sleeping berths, ample lockable storage, main and lapper sails, marine cooking stove, sink, faucet, porta-potty, adjustable transom motor mount, and lots more.

 West Wight Potter  →

● Trailerable ● Plenty of comfort and convenience features and amenities ● Unsinkable design

● The hull has hard chines

J/Boats J/97E (Best Performance Cruiser)

If you’re in the market for a high-performance sailboat with cruising capability, then you’ll love the J/Boats J/97E . It is easy to drive, provides excellent handling and unmatched stability even in rough sea conditions.

The cockpit is one to behold. It has standard tiller/wheel steering, an open transom, and full-length seats with backrests. The retractable bowsprit comes with a spinnaker allowing you to get the best performance out of your boat without having to retain skilled crew.

It can comfortably accommodate 3-4 people in the sleeping quarters and has the option of adding a boom tent to further expand the living space.

 Jboats  →

● High performance cruising capability ● Excellent stability ● Ideal extended stay

● No designated owner’s cabin

Buyer’s Guide to Choosing the Best Sailboats

Sailboats don’t come cheap. So, if you end up buying the wrong one, well, let’s just say you’re stuck with it. It is, therefore, very important that you take your time and apply some logic to avoid regret later on. Here are the major factors you need to consider when choosing the best sailboats.

1. Size of the Boat

The first thing you need to consider is the size of the boat you need. Do you intend to be cruising in the company of friends and family, or do you plan to do it by yourself?

Will you have a crew with you when you embark on your sailing expeditions, or will it be purely for entertainment? Will you be living in your boat full-time, or do you intend to use it only on the weekends?

The answers to these questions will determine the size of the boat you’ll need.

Bigger Isn’t Always Better

Many first-time boat buyers often make the mistake of thinking that getting a large boat is the best decision since they plan to have it for decades to come. They look for one that will meet every single one of their present and future needs. Here are a couple of reasons why bigger isn’t always better when buying a sailboat.

• Safety considerations – You require a substantial amount of skill to operate a large boat. If you’re not all that skilled and end up purchasing a big boat, you’re essentially endangering your life and that of the other boaters.
• Learning curve – It’s easier to pick up on the nuances of operating a smaller sailboat than it is a larger one since the feedback you get is almost instant. This makes it easier to learn as you work your way up to larger vessels. The learning curve on a big boat, however, is pretty steep, and critical errors can cost you a lot more than you bargained for.
• Associated costs – The rule of thumb to remember is: The larger a boat is, the higher its associated costs will be. Don’t buy a boat designed for the open seas if you intend to be using it on small bays.
• Low resale value – There’s also the risk of buying a boat that’s too big, only to regret your decision a few short sails later. The unfortunate reality is – you might be stuck with it for several years to come since it’s quite difficult to sell large vessels.

2. Boating Location

Next, you need to think about is – where you’ll be boating. Sailing on Lake Michigan, for instance, is vastly different from sailing on the Atlantic. The same logic applies when boating on smaller rivers.

If the water isn’t deep enough, based on how far down into the water your keel goes, let’s just say you’ll be in for an unpleasant grounding experience. You need to pick the right vessel for the environment you’ll be sailing in.

3. Boating Experience

If this is your first-ever sailboat (or any boat for that matter), then going with a large model is probably not the best thing. We’ve all heard the horror stories of people who purchased boats that were too big, only for them to end up losing control of their vessels in the open water.

We recommend starting small and working your way up from here as you gain more experience.

4. Use of the Boat

We touched a bit on this in the preceding sections. But, in this case, we mean “use” in reference to your budget.

If you want to buy a sailboat primarily for entertaining, then you need to get one that’s large enough to host the number of people you intend to have onboard. Keep in mind, though, that it may be at the expense of certain luxury, convenience, and comfort features.

Likewise, you might find a sailboat with loads of useful amenities, but without enough space to accommodate the people who might enjoy them. There’s no point in buying a boat that comes with a kitchen and grilling station, but without enough room to accommodate the number of people who might enjoy fresh grilled fish. Or maybe you want a boat that only you will use – in which case you may prefer one with a comfortable and attractive cockpit for yourself, seeing as you’ll be the main person enjoying it.

Size generally trumps luxury when buying a sailboat. Then again – it depends on what you intend to use it for.

5. New vs. Used Sailboats

The other thing you need to think about is whether you’re buying a new or used sailboat. Each option has its own set of pros and cons. For one thing, buying a brand new boat means that it’s ready to hit the open waters the moment you own it.

On the other hand, buying a used sailboat means that you may have to make repairs and upgrades before you can set sail. You also have to think about the costs associated with such repairs and the time required to do all the legwork to get the right gear.

So, ensure that you factor in these costs when coming up with your boat budget. That way, you’ll be able to tell if it makes sense to buy a new boat versus a used one, based on the overall cost for each. Don’t buy a lemon that turns into an infinite money-pit all in the name of saving a couple of bucks.

What to Check for When Buying a Used Sailboat

If you’re going the previously-owned route, here are a couple of things you need to check for before you sign on the dotted line.

• Deck and hull – Check that the deck and hull are dry and intact. If not, you’ll have to budget for repairs if you go ahead with the purchase.
• Electrical work – Rewiring a boat is a very complex and expensive process. Get a certified electrician to examine the existing electrical work before you buy a used boat.
• Engine – It’s always a good idea to bring a mechanic onboard during the purchase process just to make sure that everything is in excellent working condition. They are better-placed to give you a true picture of the boat’s existing state.
• Safety equipment – Last but not least, you need to keep in mind that insurance service providers usually require sailboats to have a minimum amount of safety equipment onboard. If anything is missing from the boat you’re about to purchase, you will need to buy them, which will no doubt drive up the cost.

6. Recurring Costs

The recurring costs associated with owning a sailboat aren’t exactly cheap. Buying the vessel is only one part of the process.

You’ll need to pay for insurance, which is more expensive for larger boats. You also need to think about storage costs if you don’t own property on the waterfront. There’s also the cost of docking and mooring at the various locations you visit.

So, when calculating your overall budget, don’t forget to factor in these costs as well.

Research, Research, Research

When looking for the best sailboats, ensure that you do your homework. Otherwise, you could be setting yourself up for years of additional expenses, work, stress, and heartache.

Get something ideal for your needs and won’t take up too many resources in maintenance and upkeep. All in all, with the right sailboat, you’re in for one helluva ride! Any of the 9 best sailboats detailed in this guide are excellent options worth looking into.

In the meantime, if you’re in the market for a new pontoon boat, check out our comprehensive review on the 10 best pontoon boats .

About Chris

Outdoors, I’m in my element, especially in the water. I know the importance of being geared up for anything. I do the deep digital dive, researching gear, boats and knowhow and love keeping my readership at the helm of their passions.

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A First Look at the New Boats of 2022

• By Cruising World Editors
• December 1, 2021

As if to prove the old saw “good things come to those who wait,” sailboat builders are poised to introduce a stunning array of new models as boat shows here in the States open their doors for the first time in nearly two years. 

Looking through the lineup that’s set to make a debut at venues this fall and winter, the assortment of designs and options is impressive, to say the least. For our 2022 New Sailboat Showcase, we count ­entries from builders in a ­dozen ­countries, from the US to ­Europe to the Far East to South ­Africa. One ­country, France, dominates the water- front with 13 new models ready to make a splash.  

But nationality isn’t the only element bringing variety to the new-sailboat market. Buyers will be able to choose from 23 monohulls and nine new ­multihulls, ranging in size from 24 to more than 66 feet. And designs span daysailers to performance cruisers to a ­number of long-legged bluewater ­voyagers, featuring one hull or two (or three), your choice.

RELATED: Which Sailboat is the Best New Boat for 2022?

And that’s not all. Remember, the new boats you’ll see when you venture out this coming year also include the more than three dozen models we counted in last year’s Showcase, most of which were on display only through virtual events or at private showings put on by individual dealers.

All in all, sailors have any number of reasons to head for the waterfront to check out a wide assortment of fresh ideas about how to have fun on the water. From accommodations to sailhandling, there will be a lot to talk about—and choose from if you’re a buyer. Enjoy!

Alubat Cigale 16

With its hard chine, twin rudders and tall rig, the all-aluminum, 54-foot Cigale 16 is an impressive long-range cruiser. Naval architect Marc Lombard has maximized the waterline but kept the displacement light, which translates to power upwind and planing speeds on a screaming reach. A single helm or twin wheels are available, and choose three or four cabins as well. 

Balance 482

A collaborative design effort between champion cat racer Philip Berman and award-winning naval architect Anton du Toit, the Balance 482 is all about grace and ­performance. Go-fast features include ­forward-raked wave-piercing bows, foam-cored hulls and decks, and carbon reinforcement throughout. Choose either daggerboards or fixed keels. 

balancecatamarans.com

Bali Catspace

When it comes to cruising comfort and amenities, there are spaces galore to choose from on the 40-foot Bali Catspace. The integrated deck layout boasts an aft platform with bench seats and a forward cockpit with a dedicated lounge and room to stretch out in the sun. Or head up topside to the expansive flybridge/helm station for a broader view of the horizon. 

bali-catamarans.com

Bavaria C38

With its distinctive V-shaped bow, hard chines, substantial beam and dual wheels, the 36-foot Bavaria C38 is a sharp-looking, compact cruiser. The beamy hull is carried well aft, where owners have a choice of a single stateroom or a pair of them. Either way, the expansive owner’s cabin forward is certainly one of the largest available in the midsize-cruiser category. 

bavariayachts.com

Beneteau First 27

Big fun and thrills in a small, smart package: That’s what the Beneteau First 27 is all about. With a vacuum-infused hull, a lead T-bulb deep keel, and balanced twin-rudders, this nifty racer/cruiser was laid out to get there quickly. The open cockpit is superb for competition or daysailing, but the real surprise is the sweet layout below for coastal cruising.

beneteau.com

Bluewater 56

The Bluewater 56 is a Germán Frers-­designed long-range cruiser that is built for Bluewater Yachts by Xiamen ­Hansheng Yacht Building in China. With ­watertight bulkheads fore and aft, a solid composite hull, top-notch ­hardware, dual headsails and optional hard ­dodger, the 56 is intended for the cruiser who wants to see the world in comfort.

bluewateryachts.com

At a shade longer than 67 feet, this formidable offshore thoroughbred from the powerhouse French duo of designer Philippe Briand and the CNB shipyard was conceived as the largest sailing yacht that could be handled by a family crew. The optional hydraulic roller-furling boom for the mainsail, developed with Hall Spars, is one feature that makes it possible. 

en.cyb-yachts.com

Looking for options in your next cruising boat? Search no further than the Dufour 470, which the builder pitches as “three models in one,” with a trio of versions: Easy, Ocean and Performance. The Easy layout keeps things simple and straightforward. The Ocean model brings critical running rigging close to the helm. The Performance package is upgraded for the racer. 

dufour-yachts.com

Dufour’s new flagship 61-footer is an impressive yacht on multiple levels, and fittingly, offers owners a selection of several interior layouts. For example, there are two cool galley options: one forward and one longitudinal, to port. Topside, the look is clean and modern, particularly the sleek coach roof and expansive foredeck. And the cockpit Bimini is a delight. 

Measuring in at just inches under 50 feet, the Elan GT6 (the GT stands for “Grand Tourer”) is an elegant-looking craft. Humphreys Yacht Design was responsible for the hull design, while Studio F.A. Porsche handled the styling, particularly the handsome accoutrements below. These include a forward galley, a sumptuous saloon, and a roomy forward owner’s suite.

elan-yachts.com

FountainE Pajot Isla 40

The worthy successor to FP’s popular Lucia 40, the new Isla 40 is the latest creation from the prolific naval architects at Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design. For this crafty midsize cat, the designers specified inverted bows to stretch the waterline, and extended the coach roof well aft, where it serves as a hard Bimini over the shaded cockpit—a lovely space for a happy crew. 

catamarans-fountaine-pajot.com

Fountaine Pajot Samana 59 

It’s easy to identify the signature feature of the French cat builder’s fresh new flagship: It’s the breathtaking flybridge at the center of it all, which the company notes is the largest in its class. But that’s just the beginning of the innovations. Take, for example, the saloon. Would you prefer the Lounge layout, with the galley down, or the Classic, with galley up? Choices, choices!

Grand Soleil 42 LC

It’s a grand year for imports, and that includes a pair of new offerings from Italian builder Grand Soleil. The 42 LC is available in two versions: standard or sport. The former features a carbon arch over the cockpit to clear the area of a mainsheet traveler; the sportier option has a cockpit laid out for racing and cruising. Below, there’s a choice of two or three staterooms. 

grandsoleil.net

Grand Soleil GS 44

Make no mistake about it: The GS 44 is a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Like the 42 LC, there is a choice between two versions—in this case, race and performance. The former, a Grand Prix racing machine, needs no explanation. The latter, perhaps obviously, is focused on performance cruising, with a deck layout optimized for smooth shorthanded cruising. 

Hallberg-Rassy 50 

Somehow, designer ­Germán Frers and ­builder Hallberg-Rassy have found a way to launch a thoroughly modern center-cockpit sailboat that still has the look and feel of the HR family of bluewater cruisers. The 50-footer includes a walk-in engine room, twin rudders, tons of storage space, and an in-mast furling carbon-fiber rig and versatile sail plan.

hallberg-rassy.com

Hallberg-Rassy 400

Longtime Swedish ­builder Hallberg-Rassy has just launched a sporty-looking 40-footer, designed by Germán Frers. The HR 400 features a sizable aft cockpit, twin wheels and rudders, and a wide ­array of choices, ­including slightly overlapping genoa or self-tacking jib, one or two heads, and a two- or three-cabin layout down below. 

HH Catamarans is jumping into green sailing with its in-house-­designed HH44. The carbon-fiber cat’s ­par­allel hybrid system features robust solar power and lithium batteries to fuel a pair of electric motors, plus twin 30 hp diesels for conventional motoring. Add solid performance under sail, and the horizon just got a lot more distant.

hhcatamarans.com

Hylas says its new Bill Dixon-designed 57 represents a “new era,” and it’s hard to argue. Twin wheels and rudders ensure an easy, precise helm. A light, cored hull promotes both notable strength and superb insulation. A solent rig with a pair of headsails lets you shift gears in shifty breeze. It’s designed to be sailed by a couple, and with three or four cabins, the open ocean awaits.

hylasyachts.com

Italia 14.98

With the Italia 14.98, you have options. Keep it simple with a self-­tacking jib, electric  Rewind winches, and luxury Bellissima interior. Or spice it up for ORC-style racing with a ­carbon spar and mast jack, split backstay, six-winch cockpit layout, asymmetrical kites and bowsprit, and the weight-conscious Fouriserie finish down below.

italiayachts.com

J/Boats J/45

The team at J/Boats ­certainly knows a ton about performance cruising, and with their new 45-footer, they’re taking their program to the next level. The carbon, double-spreader fractional rig means business. The SCRIMP resin-infused molding process for the foam-cored hull and deck translates to one strong, sleek yacht, ready for oceanic adventures.

J/Boats J/9

Billed as an offshore daysailer, the crew at J/Boats asks, “Is this the most comfortable cockpit ever?” On this smashing 28-footer, it just might be. The J/9 is simplicity personified; hoist the main and unroll the jib, and you’re instantly flying. That cockpit has four comfy corner seats and a perfect swim platform. And there are berths below for coastal cruising.

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 380

Just like its larger sisterships (the Sun Odyssey 410, 440 and 490), the latest model in the growing Sun Odyssey range, the 380, is complete with the innovative, award-winning walk-around deck, which has proved to be a revelation. Naval architect Marc Lombard is once again responsible for the hull design, so you know the ride will be fast and comfy. 

jeanneauamerica.com

Jeanneau Yachts 60

Get this: The latest, perhaps greatest, addition to the Jeanneau line is available in 19(!) possible interior configurations. All of them fit within a spacious package designed by the legendary Philippe Briand, with features including an inverted bow, a dedicated hull chine, an integral bowsprit, an elevated sheerline and walk-around side decks, to make the going easy.

Lagoon Sixty 5

A terrific successor to Lagoon’s highly successful 620 model, the new Sixty 5 has taken the flybridge concept, literally and figuratively, to a new level. Accessed via a wide, safe stairway, the bridge has not one but two helm stations for maximum visibility when underway. A rigid overhead Bimini is fitted with a glass window to see the set of the sails. A wet bar? Of course!

cata-lagoon.com

LM 46 performance cruiser

Not many builders are knocking out wood performance cruisers these days. But not many builders enjoy the stellar reputation of Maine’s Lyman-Morse yard. Designed by Kiwi Kevin Dibley, the cold-molded 46-footer is fashioned of Douglas fir and western red cedar, and it is spectacular. Double headsails and twin wheels make it a joy to drive under sail. 

lymanmorse.com

The newest member of the Neel family of cruising trimarans is the 43, and while it might be the smallest yacht in the lineup, it’s big on performance. Designed by Marc Lombard, it continues with the Neel tradition of being fast and safe, and easily operable by a shorthanded crew. The helm station, to starboard, has a triple seat for comfort and commanding views.

neel-trimarans.com

With its new 50 footer, Oyster, in collaboration with Humphreys Yacht Design, has shifted gears to focus on couples and other shorthanded crews headed for bluewater adventures. An in-mast furling main and electric winches are standard, 

as are twin wheels in the cockpit, located a bit forward on the clutter-free deck. The 495 features three cabins and creature comforts aplenty.

oysteryachts.com

Built in Croatia to exceedingly high standards with vacuum infusion and vinylester resin, the Salona 46 is strong, stiff and reliable. Like every Salona, those traits are reinforced with an internal steel frame that anchors the keel and mast. An electric winch hoists the main, which drops into a sweet stack pack when the day is done. A fractional rig enhances sailhandling.

salonayachts.com

When Tartan’s estimable naval architect Tim Jackett sat down to draw the next addition to the line, he had something substantial in mind. But when the opportunity arose to build a fleet of tidy craft for instruction, club racing and even adaptive sailing, he tacked in a different direction, and presto: the 245. Pretty and peppy, and of course well-built, it’s fun and alluring.

tartanyachts.com

South Africa’s Vision Yachts has launched a 44-foot cat that’s designed to keep things simple for owners or charterers. A raised helm station ensures good visibility underway and when docking, while a self-tacking jib takes the effort out sailhandling. Among the notable ­features are side doors in each transom for better access from a dock.

visionyachts.com

Voyage 590 

Voyage, a South African builder, has been crafting oceangoing cats since 1994. Voyage, the Caribbean charter ­company, maintains a fleet of those same boats, including the new 590, which can ­accommodate up to 14 guests on a sun-splashed holiday. The boat features an open floor plan, with multiple spaces to relax, ­including a flybridge.

voyageyachts.com

X-Yachts X5 6

The X-Yachts X range of ­performance cruising sailboats just got a big new addition with the launch of the flagship X5 6 , a vessel as sleek-looking on deck, with its twin wheels and solent rig, as it is luxurious below. Check out the considerable variety of options by clicking through the X5 6 configurator tool online. Warning: It can lead to serious dreaming. 

x-yachts.com

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Yacht Sourcing > WHICH SAILBOAT IS THE BEST NEW BOAT FOR 2022?

WHICH SAILBOAT IS THE BEST NEW BOAT FOR 2022?

• December 14, 2021

Already the end of the year and there are only a few weeks left before the sailing lovers discover which will be the best boat of 2022.

The Annapolis Show in Maryland, as it’s known, has become an institution in the sailing community. For more than 50 years sailors have flocked to historic downtown Annapolis to see the newest boats, the latest equipment, and to meet the most knowledgeable people in the industry.

At the same time it’s during this worldwide event that “Cruising world” the famous online magazine announced its roster of nominees.

The annual awards, selected by an independent judging team, recognize the best new production cruising boats and multihulls laid out and equipment for coastal and offshore sailing and voyaging. The judges had a close look at the nominees on the dock during the U.S. Sailboat Show. The on-water testing for the awards takes place on the Chesapeake Bay.

October 20,2021. “Cruising world” announced the nominees for the best sailboat for 2022 are:

• Balance 482
• Bali Catspace
• Bavaria C38
• Beneteau First 27
• Seawind 1600
• Fountaine Pajot Isla40
• Fountaine Pajot Samana59
• Grand Soleil 44
• Hallberg-Rassy 340
• Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 380
• Jeanneau Yacht 60
• Kinetic Catamarans KC54
• Lagoon Sixty5
• Royal Cape Majestic 530
• Xquisite X5 Plus.

No less than 4 boats of which Yacht Sourcing is the representative in Indonesia are present in the list : Fountaine Pajot and Dufour. Two for each brand, which demonstrates the recognition of the marine industry, for these two jewels of the sea are represented by Yacht Sourcing, the trusted partner in Indonesia.

So let’s wait for January 2022, and wish “Bonne Chance” to Fountaine Pajot and Dufour for the award.

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