sailboats with cabins

13 Best Beginner Sailboats with Cabin (For Any Budget)

Have you ever thought you couldn't afford a sailboat with a cabin? Think again. In this article, you will find 13 beginner sailboats that will suit your budget. We've considered various factors such as safety, ease of handling, and affordability in our selection. These sailboats offer cabins, providing a much-needed break during extended trips and offer the option of overnight stays.

The best beginner sailboats with cabins are Catalina 22, West Wight Potter 19, Com-Pac 23, Hunter 240, MacGregor 26, Montgomery 17, O'Day 22, Precision 18, San Juan 21, Sea Pearl 21, Sirius 22, Tanzer 22, and Ventura 23. Their prices can range from around $5,000 to $30,000.

Whether you're just dipping your toes into the world of sailing or planning on making it a lifelong passion, our list of beginner sailboats with cabins has something for everyone. This will help you focus on what really matters: enjoying your time at sea and mastering the art of sailing.

• Test-sail a few models so you can get a feel for how each boat handles and performs.
• Check out online forums to find user reviews and insights on each model you won't find anywhere else.
• Choose a sailboat that matches your current skill level, such as a small boat with simple rigging and easy handling.
• Identify how you plan to use your sailboat, whether for weekend cruising or for racing.
• Choose a boat that not only fits your budget but also ensures enough space and comfort for your activities.

On this page:

Best beginner sailboats with cabin, let's decide on a sailboat with cabin, understand your needs when choosing a sailboat with cabin, factors to consider for your sailing needs and experience level.

1. Catalina 22 is a classic sailboat that has been popular for over 50 years

The Catalina 22 is an excellent choice for beginners due to its spacious cabin and easy handling. You can get it for $10,000–$20,000. You will appreciate its versatility and stability, which makes sailing more enjoyable and less intimidating. With a length of 22 feet, it's a great boat for beginners because it's easy to sail and has a comfortable cabin. It weighs 2,500 pounds.

2. West Wight Potter 19 is another good option for beginners

Your confidence will grow while sailing the West Wight Potter 19, a compact and sturdy sailboat. You can get it for $5,000–$15,000. Its compact design and shallow draft make it perfect for navigating tight spaces and shallow waters. It's a small sailboat with a cabin that's easy to handle and can be trailered. It weighs 1,200 pounds.

3. Com-Pac 23 is a larger sailboat that's still easy to handle

A great option for beginners seeking comfort is the Com-Pac 23. You can get it for $20,000–$30,000. This sailboat offers a cozy cabin and ample storage for your sailing adventures. Its stability and performance will undoubtedly enhance your sailing experience. It has a roomy cabin and is a good choice for those who want to spend longer periods of time on the water. It weighs 3,000 pounds.

4. Hunter 240 is a popular sailboat that's great for beginners

The Hunter 240 combines functionality and performance, making it an excellent beginner sailboat. You can get it for $10,000–$20,000. You will appreciate its roomy cabin and user-friendly design, which make sailing a breeze. It has a large cockpit and a comfortable cabin, making it a good choice for day sailing or weekend trips. It weighs 3,500 pounds.

5. MacGregor 26 is a versatile sailboat that can be used for both sailing and powerboating

If versatility is essential for you, the MacGregor 26 fits the bill. You can get it for $10,000–$20,000. This sailboat easily adapts to both sailing and power boating , providing you with a unique and enjoyable experience on the water. It has a roomy cabin and is a good choice for those who want to explore both the water and the land. It weighs 2,250 pounds.

6. Montgomery 17 is a small sailboat with a cabin that's easy to handle and trailer

The Montgomery 17 offers a great sailing experience for those new to the sport. You can get it for $5,000–$15,000. You'll find its compact design and easy maneuverability make it an excellent choice for building your sailing skills. It's a good choice for beginners who want a simple, no-frills sailboat. It weighs 1,000 pounds.

7. O'Day 22 is a classic sailboat that's easy to handle and has a comfortable cabin

Beginners will love the O'Day 22 for its simplicity and accessibility. You can get it for $5,000–$15,000. With a spacious cabin and dependable performance, this sailboat will ensure your sailing journey is smooth and enjoyable. It's a good choice for those who want to spend longer periods of time on the water. It weighs 2,700 pounds.

8. Precision 18 is a small sailboat with a cabin that's easy to handle and trailer

The Precision 18 is designed with beginners in mind. You can get it for $5,000–$15,000. You'll appreciate its manageable size and capability to navigate various sailing conditions with ease. It's a good choice for beginners who want a simple, no-frills sailboat. It weighs 1,150 pounds.

9. San Juan 21 is a popular sailboat that's great for beginners

The San Juan 21 is a fantastic option if you're just starting. You can get it for $5,000–$15,000. Its good performance and stability will allow you to develop your skills with confidence. It has a large cockpit and a comfortable cabin, making it a good choice for day sailing or weekend trips. It weighs 1,900 pounds.

10. Sea Pearl 21 is a unique sailboat that's great for beginners who want to explore shallow waters

You will love sailing the Sea Pearl 21, a beginner-friendly sailboat known for its shallow draft and stability. You can get it for $10,000–$20,000. Its compact design makes it easy to handle and perfect for weekend getaways. It has a shallow draft and a comfortable cabin, making it a good choice for those who want to spend time on the water and on the beach. It weighs 1,200 pounds.

11. Sirius 22 is a versatile sailboat that's easy to handle and has a comfortable cabin

The Sirius 22 has a comfortable cabin and user-friendly layout, which makes it an excellent choice for beginner sailors. You can get it for $5,000–$15,000. You'll enjoy sailing in various conditions thanks to its stability and performance. It's a good choice for those who want to explore both the water and the land. It weighs 2,800 pounds.

12. Tanzer 22 is a classic sailboat that's easy to handle and has a comfortable cabin

If you're looking for a beginner sailboat that's easy to handle, the Tanzer 22 is a great choice. You can get it for $5,000–$15,000. Its functional design and favorable performance make it a popular choice among novice sailors. It's a good choice for those who want to spend longer periods of time on the water. It weighs 2,700 pounds.

13. Ventura 23 is a popular sailboat for beginners that has a roomy cabin

Ventura 23 has a spacious cabin that can accommodate up to four people. You can get it for $10,000–$20,000. It's easy to handle and is a good choice for weekend trips or longer periods of time on the water. Its user-friendly features make it easy for beginners to navigate and enjoy their time on the water. It weighs 4,000 pounds.

When choosing the perfect beginner sailboat with a cabin that suits your budget and needs, consider these factors:

Test sailing on a few models

This allows you to get a feel for how each boat handles and performs. Reach out to dealers or sailing clubs, as they may offer opportunities for you to try out different sailboats. Remember, your comfort and confidence on the water are crucial, so it's essential to choose a boat that feels right for you.

Research on various sailboat models

Invest some time in thorough research on various sailboat models within your budget. This will help you understand their features, strengths, and weaknesses. You can do this by consulting online resources, speaking with experienced sailors, and visiting boat shows.

Reviews from fellow sailors

Don't underestimate the power of reviews from fellow sailors. Reading the real-life experiences of others who have sailed on different boat models can provide valuable insights into their performance, maintenance, and overall satisfaction. Check out online forums, sailing magazines, and customer testimonials to gather a variety of opinions on the sailboats you're considering.

There are numerous online forums and communities dedicated to sailing enthusiasts and beginners where you can ask questions, share experiences, and learn from others who share your passion. In these spaces, you can find valuable advice and recommendations from experienced sailors on the best beginner sailboats for various purposes and budgets.

Some popular sailing forums and communities include:

• Cruisers Forum
• Sailing Anarchy
• SailNet Community
• Yachting and Boating World Forums

By participating in these communities, you'll be able to expand your knowledge, make new friends, and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the sailing world. Just remember to always approach online interactions with a friendly tone and an open-minded attitude, as this will help create a positive and supportive learning environment.

Consider the following factors to help you make the best decision that caters to your preferences and budget:

Sailing experience

As a beginner, it's crucial to choose a sailboat that matches your current skill level . Smaller boats with simple rigging and easy handling, like the Sunfish or Hobie Cats, are great for those who are just starting. As you gain experience, you may transition to larger vessels with more advanced features.

Preferred types of sailing activities

Always think about what type of sailing activities you prefer. Some people enjoy leisurely weekend trips , while others are more interested in racing. For example, the West Wight Potter is an excellent choice for weekend cruising, while the Challenger Trimaran is more performance-oriented for racers. Identifying how you plan to use your sailboat will greatly help you make the best choice for your needs.

Your budget for a sailboat with a cabin

Finding a sailboat within your budget range is essential, but also keep in mind the ongoing costs such as maintenance, mooring fees, insurance, and fuel. With realistic financial planning, you can make a wise investment in a sailboat that suits your needs and avoids future financial issues.

In this section, we will discuss the following important aspects when choosing the best beginner sailboat with a cabin: size and layout, ease of handling, and maintenance and upkeep.

Size and layout of the sailboat

The size of the sailboat is an important consideration, especially if you plan to spend nights on board or have guests join you. Choose a boat that not only fits your budget but also ensures enough space and comfort for your activities. A good starting point might be boats between 22 and 30 feet in length, offering a combination of living space, stability, and sailing capabilities.

Think about the layout of the cabin and the overall interior design. Make sure there are enough berths for everyone staying on board, and consider the placement of the galley, head, and storage areas. Keep in mind that a well-designed layout can make a small space feel larger and more comfortable.

Ease of handling the sailboat

As a beginner, it's crucial to select a sailboat that is easy to handle and maneuver. Tiller steering is a great choice for beginners, as it helps you gain a better understanding of the boat's direction and the wind's force. Look for boats with simple rigging, easy-to-reach controls, and a responsive helm. This will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable learning experience as you build your confidence in sailing.

Maintenance and upkeep of the sailboat

Owning a sailboat comes with the responsibility of regular maintenance to keep it in top shape. Familiarize yourself with the costs and tasks associated with upkeep, such as cleaning, painting, and inspecting critical components. Choose a boat with a proven history of durability and low-cost maintenance, so you don't end up dedicating all your time and money to its upkeep. Fiberglass hulls, for example, tend to be easier to maintain than wooden ones.

Duane Stallings

Who makes the “Ventura 23” that weighs 4000 lbs? I can’t find it anywhere.

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You may also like, sailboat parts explained: illustrated guide (with diagrams).

When you first get into sailing, there are a lot of sailboat parts to learn. Scouting for a good guide to all the parts, I couldn't find any, so I wrote one myself.

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11 Best Pocket Cruiser Sailboats to Fit a Budget

• By Cruising World Staff
• Updated: May 24, 2024

Looking for a trailerable pocket cruiser that offers that liveaboard feeling? This list features 11 small sailboats with cabins that have the amenities often found on larger vessels. They may not be ocean crossing vessels, but they’re certainly capable of handling big bays and open waters.

What is a pocket cruiser? It’s a small trailerable sailboat, typically under 30 feet in length, that’s ideal for cruising big lakes, bays, coastal ocean waters, and occasionally bluewater cruising. Pocket cruisers are usually more affordable, compact, and offer a level of comfort that’s comparable to bigger liveaboards.

Small cruising sailboats are appealing for many reasons, but if you’re like most of us, you want to maintain a certain level of comfort while on the water. We took a poll and these are what we found to be the best cruising sailboats under 30 feet.

– DON’T LET CARBON MONOXIDE SNEAK UP ON YOU – Install detectors on your boat to sniff out any buildup of carbon monoxide gas. Avoid running engines or generators while anchored or stopped for extended periods. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

Open and airy below deck, the Andrews 28 doesn’t sacrifice comfort for speed. Designed by Alan Andrews, the Southern California naval architect renowned for his light, fast raceboats, this 28-footer will certainly appeal to the cruiser who also enjoys a little club racing. Sporting a total of 6 berths, a galley, head and nav area, you might forget you are on a boat small enough to be easily trailered. The retractable keel allows the Andrews 28 to be easily launched and hauled and ensures it’s as comfortable as a daysailer as it is a racer. Click here to read more about the Andrews28.

Beneteau First 20

Small sailboat with a cabin? Check! Fun to sail? Modern design? Capable of flying a spinnaker? Check! Check! Check! The Finot-Conq-designed Beneteau First 20, which replaced the popular Beneteau first 211 nearly a decade ago now, is a sporty-but-stable pocket cruiser suitable for newcomers to the sport who are eager to learn their chops before moving up to a bigger boat or for old salts looking to downsize to a trailerable design. The boat features twin rudders, a lifting keel, and a surprisingly roomy interior with bunks for four. Click here to read more about the Beneteau First 20 .

Conceived as a way to bridge the gap between a safe, comfortable, family cruiser and a competitive racer, Gary Mull’s Ranger 26 does exactly as it was designed to. Undeniably fast, (one won the 1970 IOR North American Half-Ton Cup) the boat sails as well as it looks. However speed isn’t the Ranger’s only strong-suit, with over 7 feet of cockpit there’s plenty of room for socializing after an evening of racing. The Ranger 26 sports a nice balance of freeboard and cabin height ensuring that a handsome profile wasn’t sacrificed for standing headroom. Click here to read more about the Ranger 26.

Catboats were once a common site in coastal waters, where they sailed the shallow bays as fishing or work boats. Their large single and often gaff-rigged sail provided plenty of power, and a centerboard made them well-suited for the thin waters they frequently encountered. In the late 1970s, Canadian builder Hinterhoeller introduced the Nonsuch 30, a fiberglass variation of the catboat design, with a modern Marconi sail flown on a stayless mast, and a keel instead of a centerboard. The boat’s wide beam made room below for a spacious interior, and the design caught on quickly with cruising sailors looking for a small bluewater sailboat. Click here to read more about the Nonsuch 30 .

– SHOW THEM HOW MUCH YOU CARE – Nothing says ‘I love you’ like making sure the kids’ life jackets are snugged up and properly buckled. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

Debuted in 1971 in California, the Newport 27 was an instant success on the local racing scene. For a modest 27-footer, the Newport 27 has an unusually spacious interrior with over 6 feet of standing headroom. With 4 berths, a table, nav station, head and galley the Newport 27 has all the amenities you might find in a much bigger boat, all in a compact package. While quick in light air, the drawback of the tiller steering becomes apparent with increasing breeze and weather helm often leading to shortening sail early. Click here to read more about the Newport 27.

First splashed in 1969, the Balboa 26 continues to enjoy a strong following among budget-minded cruisers. Built sturdy and heavy, all of the boat’s stress points are reinforced. The spacious cockpit comfortably seats 4 and is self bailing, ensuring that sailors stay dry. While only 26 feet, the Balboa still has room for a double berth, galley with stove and freshwater pump, and an optional marine head or V-berth. The Balboa has the ability to sleep five, though the most comfortable number is two or three. Under sail, the Balboa is fast and maneuverable, but may prove a handful in heavy breeze as weather helm increases. Click here to read more about the Balboa 26.

Cape Dory 28

While the sleek lines and the teak accents of the Cape Dory 28 may grab the eye, it is the performance of the boat that make it unique. The Cape Dory comes with all amenities that you might need available, including a V-berth, 2 settees, and a head. Safe, sound and comfortable as a cruiser it is still capable of speed. Quick in light wind and sturdy and capable in heavy air, it is off the wind where the Cape Dory 28 shines with a balanced helm and the ability to cut through chop and still tack perfectly. Click here to read more about the Cape Dory 28.

Islander Bahama 28

On top of being a real eye-catcher, the Islander Bahama 28, with its 5-foot-6-inch draft and 3,300 pounds of ballast, sails beautifully, tracks well, and responds quickly to the helm. Inspired by the International Offshore Rule, it is unusually wide, offering stability in breeze without sacrificing the sheer and lines that make it so attractive. Below deck, the Islander Bahama 28 comes standard with plenty of berths and storage space and a galley complete with stove, icebox and sink. Click here to read more about the Islander Bahama 28.

– CHECK THE WEATHER – The weather changes all the time. Always check the forecast and prepare for the worst case. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

Much like its older sibling, the S2 8.6 still holds its contemporary style, despite its 1983 introduction. Like all other S2 Yachts, the 8.6 is recognized for the quality craftsmanship that allows the boat to hold up today.The S2 8.6 is a very comfortable and easily managed coastal cruiser and club racer. It’s relatively stiff, its helm feels balanced, and it tracks well. On most points of sail, it compares favorably with other boats of similar size and type. Click here to read more about the S2 8.6.

Contessa 26

When the Contessa 26 was released in 1965, it immediately proved itself to be a strong, seaworthy vessel. The Contessa has continued to prove itself throughout its lifetime, being the boat of choice for two solo circumnavigations under the age of 21. While upwind performance leaves some wanting, the boat is sturdy and can carry full sail in up to 20 knots of breeze. Suited more for single-handing, the Contessa lacks standing headroom and the accommodations are sparse. Nonetheless, the Contessa 26 performs well as a daysailer with guests aboard. Click here to read more about the Contessa 26.

The Hunter 27 perfectly encompasses the pocket cruiser ideal. Even if you don’t want a big boat, you can still have big boat amenities. With the generously spacious layout, wheel steering and a walkthrough transom the Hunter feels much larger than 27 feet. Step below deck and any doubts you had that the Hunter was secretly a big boat will be gone. The amenities below are endless; a full galley including stove, microwave and cooler, head with full shower, several berths and not to mention a saloon with seating for 6. The Hunter 27 has reset the benchmark for 27-footers. Click here to read more about the Hunter 27.

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Best cabin cruisers: 5 of the most versatile options under 30ft

• Top stories

Serial boat owner Elliott Maurice picks out 5 of the best cabin cruisers and explains what makes them stand out in this highly competitive market…

Some of the most successful cabin cruiser designs can trace their lineage back to the ‘weekender’ style boats from the likes of Chris-Craft , which originated in 1960s America with the aim of accommodating a whole family for a weekend away.

The 1960 Chris Craft Cavalier 25 offered a galley, complete with a sink and gas hob, enclosed head, a forward V berth cabin and convertible saloon with a drop-down table creating a midships berth suitable for children.

Allowing weekends away with facilities only previously available from larger purpose-built motor yachts, the cabin cruiser concept took off.

The 1980s saw some excellent boats appear from the likes of Fairline with models such as the Mirage 29 Aft Cabin and the Holiday 23. These boats brought weekend cruising comfort to the rivers, estuaries, and coastlines of Europe in huge numbers.

Now over 50 years later the choice of small family cabin cruisers is excellent, with offerings from both sides of the Atlantic providing the ideal solution, even offering extended liveaboard cruising in a trailerable sized boat.

When considering what is the best cabin cruiser boat for you, there are a few key things to consider. Where do you plan to use it? A coastal boat will require significantly more horsepower than a river boat.

How long will you spend on board? Liveaboard cabin cruisers will prioritize interior comfort over outside lounging space. Personal style and price will also be key guiding factors.

I have selected what I consider to be some of the best weekender and compact cabin cruisers available on the market today.

5 of the best cabin cruisers available right now

The Marlin version of the Jeanneau Merry Fisher 895 won our 2020 Motor Board Award for Best Wheelhouse or Cockpit Cruiser

Jeanneau Merry Fisher 895 Sport

Best all-round cabin cruiser

A great starting point and overall, a great boat. This nearly 29ft long cabin cruiser (including pulpit and outboard ) offers everything a small family could want for weekends away, with two light and comfortable berths in separate double cabins, an excellent helm and cockpit with a comfortable dinette seating four.

You also get full standing headroom in the ensuite, with a pullout shower, and all of this is accommodated in a sturdy and capable hull. Power options range from a single 175hp outboard up to twin 250hp engines, so the Merry Fisher can be powered to suit both inland river and coastal conditions.

Extras include bow thruster, reverse cycle heat and air air-conditioning and, as the name suggests, plenty of fishing options. The light and airy Jeanneau can be upgraded significantly to well over $160,000. However even at the starting price of $130,000 the 895 Sport makes an excellent and versatile small family cabin cruiser.

Read our full review of the Jeanneau Merry Fisher 895

Article continues below…

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Ranger tug r29s.

Best liveaboard cabin cruiser

A modern American classic, the R29S is a marvel for its size. Designed more as a small ship than a normal pleasure boat, the R29 is only offered with a single 320hp Volvo D4 diesel engine. Bow and stern thrusters are fitted as standard for easy docking.

The Ranger is an expensive option starting at a lofty $350,000, however it is capable of comfortably taking a couple bluewater cruising around the Bahamas or on the 5,500-mile trip around the American Great Loop. Featuring curved glass wheelhouse windows with opening glass roof hatches, the R29S has an excellent helm with superb visibility and a robust, seaworthy hull.

Accommodation can be heated or air conditioned for cruising comfort, all the while the D4 is sipping just 2gph at 7 knots, giving a cruising range of 500 miles. But there’s enough top end to punch a tide when you need to – the top speed on the R29S is a healthy 23.4 knots.

The comprehensive standard inventory includes 12in Garmin MFD, AIS and xHD radar, while optional extras include dingy and davits, generator, solar panels, ice maker, TVs in the saloon and master, and even an aft docking station.

Although the Ranger can sleep up to six, it is built to accommodate two in long distance comfort usually only equalled by boats in the 40ft+ class.

We likened the Pilot 8 to a seagoing SUV in our 2020 review

Finnmaster Pilot 8

Best high performance cabin cruiser

Due to the tough local weather conditions, Scandinavian boats are built to a higher standard than most brands, and the Finnmaster is no exception. Exceptionally rugged, the Pilot 8 is an extremely capable and fast sea boat, with accommodation for up to six people.

The 27ft 6in Pilot 8 can reach a speed of 43.5 knots flat out, with power coming from twin 200hp outboard engines. Starting at around €150,000, the Pilot 8 is top notch in terms of its fit and finish throughout.

With its 18in Garmin MFD, optional joystick control, rugged forward canting windscreen and bucket helm seat, the helm of the Pilot 8 is well suited to making the most of the boat’s performance capabilities.

What’s more, a handy side door leading off the asymmetric wheelhouse to a wide side deck provides excellent access to the fore deck for docking maneuvers.

More compact and performance orientated than its French rivals, the Finnmaster is still capable of accommodating four people in comfort, with a cockpit galley that features a diesel-powered hob, microwave, sink and refrigerator.

A decent enclosed heads with pull out shower and two separate sleeping cabins bely the boat’s performance capabilities, and with options like a high-end Fusion stereo, diesel heating and HD radar, the Finnmaster offers a lot of flexibility.

Read our full review of the Finnmaster Pilot 8

Regal 28 Express

Best warm weather cabin cruiser

Better suited to warmer climes, the Regal is more of a mini-Med style cabin cruiser than its all-weather rivals. When it comes to outdoor lounging and sun worshipping, the Regal does things better than most.

Accommodation is far more open below – the air-conditioned cabin includes a double berth situated aft under the cockpit and a forward double berth created by dropping the forward table and adding an infill cushion, while the enclosed head boasts 6ft of standing headroom and a pull-out shower.

The lower galley comes equipped with an electric hob, microwave, refrigerator and sink that can easily cater for simple meals and breakfast on board.

Where the Regal offers a different approach is in its open cockpit design with multiple sunbathing spaces, seating that converts into a sun pad and an outdoor wet bar. With power up to a 380hp Volvo petrol sterndrive, the 28 Express is capable of just under 32 knots flat out.

The Regal can cope with fair weather coastal navigation between marinas, and it is ideal for lounging at a sandbar or anchored off a beach. With the optional 32in TV in the saloon and a large wraparound sofa, family weekends away are easily accommodated. And as a handy bonus, the radar arch can be lowered electrically to reduce bridge clearance when towing.

The Beneteau Antares 8 comes in Cruising and Fishing variants

Beneteau Antares 8

Best value cabin cruiser

Starting at an exceptionally low $88,000 the Antares 8 should definitely be in the mix if you’re searching for the best cabin cruiser on a budget. Although cost savings are evident compared to some of the boats mentioned above, the Antares is an excellent small weekender.

Power starts with a super quiet 200hp Mercury V6 outboard, or you can upgrade to the 250hp V8 single outboard. Options include an electric head, 12in Garmin MFD and Fusion sound system and, for fishing lovers, roof mounted rocket launcher style rod holders.

This two-cabin boat accommodates four using the convertible upper saloon as a double berth as well as the forward twin cabin, with the midships area reserved for storage.

A side door allows safe boarding for children off the dock, and at a compact 26ft 5in, this small cabin cruiser is well equipped for short family cruises.

A small but usable galley with a choice of gas or electric cooking, refrigeration, and plenty of seating for four people can be found in the convertible saloon.

The well-equipped helm with power steering, digital controls and optional bow thruster make the Antares an excellent starter boat, and with the optional lithium-ion air conditioning unit and large aft cockpit the Antares would work just as well in warmer climates as well as cooler ones.

Watch our yacht tour video of the Beneteau Antares 8

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Choosing the Best Beginner Sailboat

9th jun 2023 by samantha wilson.

Sailing dates back thousands of years and is still one of the best-loved pastimes in the United States and across the world. Learning to sail brings many benefits, from gaining a whole new skillset, to getting out into the fresh air, improving your fitness, meeting like-minded people, and spending quality time with your family. If you’re considering learning to sail, start by checking out our guide on Getting into Sailing . 

We all need to start somewhere and getting into sailing on the wrong type of boat for your experience level can leave you feeling frustrated. While the temptation to buy something filled with gadgets and plenty of space is there, remember that your love for sailing will come from feeling in control and at one with the ocean as you learn its every move. Simplicity is the key to that.

In this post we are focusing on the frequently asked question: "What are the best sailboats for beginners?" In short, all you really need is a hull, mast, rudder, and sail and you can be soaring along the coast or lake soaking up the sense of freedom that sailing brings. But of course buying a boat is never quite that simple, and with so much choice out there we have narrowed down the options.

Don’t forget, this doesn’t have to be your forever boat. As your skills improve and your horizons widen, you can upgrade to larger or more complex sailboats, but for this moment, consider the here and now and what boat will suit it. 

A comfortable daysailer, the Marlow Hunter 18. Photo credit: Marlow Hunter

What Makes a Sailboat Good for Beginners?

As a general rule, the smaller the boat, the easier it will be to handle, although there are exceptions. The simplicity of the boat's sails and sail controls will also affect its beginner-friendliness. To start, we recommend choosing a boat that's easy to rig, lightweight, transportable, and simple to sail. From sailing dinghies to daysailers, weekender sailboats and trailerable boats, beginner boats are nifty and a lot of fun. 

While safety and ease of handling are the main considerations for most beginners, there are several other factors that make a good beginner’s sailboat;

• An easily manageable size : A larger sailboat might feel more stable and allow you to venture farther or accommodate more people on board, but a smaller sailboat will certainly be easier to handle. Larger sailing yachts will need more complex rigs too, and as a beginner you want to be keeping everything as easy as you can while you get to grips with the act of sailing. Start off small and work your way up to bigger boats as your experience and confidence grows. 
• A stable and comfortable ride over beauty : While you gain experience sailing, having a stable and safe sailboat under you will give you confidence. There will be bumps and scrapes and wrong maneuvers, and having a boat that can withstand these without expensive repairs will make them less stressful when they inevitably happen. Both dinghies and small keelboats make good starter boats; dinghies tend to be light and responsive, teaching lessons by feel as well as by eye; keelboats are more stable and can easily carry more and larger adults.  
• A tiller for steering instead of a wheel: Having a tiller to steer with takes sailing back to the basics and allows you to get a better feel for the movement of the boat as you learn. The tiller is connected directly to the rudder, providing more feel for the flow of water past the boat. Unlike a steering wheel, you have to learn to move the tiller in the opposite direction that you want to turn, but you will quickly develop a more intuitive sense of the boat’s changes in speed and direction.
• An easy rig and simple sails: Again, simpler is always better for your first boat, and that goes for the rig and sails too. Sailing has a steep learning curve, so if you'll be sailing alone, we recommend that you choose a boat with a single mastand only one sail that you can set up by yourself quickly. You’ll have more on-the-water time and less setup and takedown time. If you’re storing your boat via trailer, be sure the mast is light enough to hoist into place by yourself. When it comes to the rigging, a halyard to hoist the mainsail and a sheet to control it are all you need. It’s possible to learn on a sloop-rigged with two sails, but it will be easier in that case if there are two of you learning together.
• Widely available model: By choosing a popular sailboat with lots on the used market you’ll find it easier to buy spares and parts as well as online resources to help you maintain it. 
• Don’t spend too much: This is your first sailboat, and if you catch the sailing bug, it’ll most likely not be your last. As your skills improve you’ll want to get bigger models that will allow you to cruise farther and do more. The used boat market is huge, with online boat selling marketplaces such as Rightboat offering thousands of listings, so there are plenty of inexpensive, good quality small sailboats to be found. 

The Laser, a sporty dinghy that can also be raced

20 of the Best Beginner Sailboat Brands

There are quite literally hundreds of brands and models of new and used small sailboats on the market and whittling it down to 20 of the best isn’t easy. But there are some sailboats which have stood the test of time and which remain today some of the best loved beginner sailboats out there. In no particular order, these are some of our favorites:

• Wayfarer sailboats
• Catalina sailboats
• Dart sailboats  
• Sprint sailboats  
• West Wight Potter sailboats
• Hobie sailboats
• Marlow-Hunter sailboats
• Skipper Craft sailboats
• Sabre sailboats
• Cape Dory sailboats
• Dufour sailboats
• Hurley sailboats
• MacGregor sailboats
• Beneteau sailboats
• Seaclipper sailboats
• Island Packet sailboats
• Jeanneau sailboats

The Best Beginner Sailboat Types

There are so many types of sailboats on the market that it’s hard to narrow down the best ones for a beginner. From dinghies to multihulls you have plenty of choice:

• Sailing dinghies: These small, lightweight sailboats are a good choice for a very first sailboat, their simplicity and ease of handling allowing beginners to get to grips with the skills they would need to advance to a more complex rig system. Accommodating one or two people with a single sail and single mast, these inexpensive boats offer the simplest back-to-basics sailing experience there is, and they can be easily taken apart for cheap storage or trailering. Their only downside is their easy ability to capsize but because of their weight they can be righted easily. The Optimist is the best known choice for children under 15 years of age, these bath-tub sized boats offering a lot of fun as well as safety and a great learning experience. For adults wanting to learn to sail, there are many similar boats on the market. The Pico, Sabot, Harteley 10 and RS Quba are commonly seen zipping across the waves near sailing clubs, while the Laser Bahia, Laser Vago, Topper Xenon and Topper Topaz are popular models for those looking for slightly bigger dinghies.

The International Optimist Dinghy, a youth learn-to-sail and racing boat

• Small catamarans Multi-hulls are renowned for their stability and therefore make excellent first sailboats. But size is a big factor and ‘small’ is the keyword here. Catamarans are fast and easy to maneuver, and the trampoline between the hulls makes for a fun sailing experience. The risk of capsizing with a catamaran is markedly lower than a monohull, but they’re also harder to upright if, in the unlikely event, they do go over. If there are cons to a catamaran it’s that they tend to cost more than monohulls and a marina berth will certainly cost more. 
• Small sloops: While slightly more advanced than a dinghy, a small sloop is a great sailboat to learn with and to develop your skills on. It will still have one mast but can have up to three sails (usually one or two) which is good for perfecting your sailing techniques. 
• Trailerable Sailboats : Ok, so this is necessarily a type of sailboat, but it’s certainly a major consideration when buying your first one. Being able to trailer your sailboat allows you to sail in different locations and conditions, therefore improving your skills. Of course the flip side is that you have to spend time setting it up each time you want go out on the water as opposed to have a ready rigged boat in a marina. 

The Best Small Sailboats for Beginners

There are many models to choose from, with brand-new designs being launched each year alongside ever-popular models which have stood the test of time. Here we take a look at some best-loved beginner sailboats on the market. 

The Best Beginner Sailboat with a Cabin: Catalina 16.5 and 22

Catalina is one of the best-known manufacturers of weekend sailboats and their range is extensive. The mid-range 16.5 and slightly larger Catalina 22 models both offer a simple set-up, fiberglass hull and deck, and a retractable keel for easy trailering. The 22 model offers a cabin which can sleep four, making it a cozy family boat for overnight trips. A large cockpit and swim ladder are added luxuries, but the real benefits for beginners is the simple fractional rig with a mainsail and a roller-furling jib.

A sloop-rigged daysailer, the Catalina 16.5.   Photo credit: Catalina Yachts

The Best Beginner Cruising Sailboat: Hunter 15 and 22

These comfortable daysailer or weekend sailboats by popular manufacturer Hunter offer plenty of space with their large, open-transom cockpit, easy handling and fiberglass hulls. Whether you opt for the Hunter 15, 18 or the larger 22 with its twin bunks, they’re a great choice for teaching a child to sail, or for adult beginners to gain their confidence. But don’t be fooled into thinking it can’t get a real move on! A molded, anti-skid fiberglass and foam flotation hull means they have added safety and can easily be manned by one person. 

The Best Beginner Sailboat for Coastal Sailing: Cape Dory 28

This is the largest beginner sailboat on our list, but if you’re planning long coastal cruises then you wouldn’t want to be doing so with anything much smaller. While it will take a bit more experience, the Cape Dory 28 is a solidly built and reliable vessel perfect for beginners. It has a full keel for stability in big seas, and it handles exceptionally well. Down below you’ve got the benefit of a small cabin, galley and head, and space to eat both inside and out. Because of their popularity and the sheer number of them built you can pick up one for a good price on the used market. 

The Best Beach Sailboats for Beginners: Hobie Wave and Hobie 16

Hobie catamarans have been sailing off beaches all over the world for many years. The trailerable, sporty  Hobie 16 sailboat is celebrating 50 years in manufacture—some 100,000 have been built during this time, a true testament to their popularity. As a multihull with a fiberglass and foam hull and a kick-up rudder board, the Hobie 16 can be sailed right up to the beach, and its trampoline allows for plenty of space to move around while learning new skills. Its newer little sister, the Hobie Wave, is even more rugged and simpler for beginners. Built with a rotomolded hull that's extremely durable, the Wave is just 13 feet long, has one sail, and is easily managed by one or two people. 

The most popular beach catamaran ever, the Hobie 16. Photo credit: Hobie

The Best Liveaboard Sailboats for Beginners: West Wight Potter P 19

While liveaboard boats tend to be slightly larger than most beginner boats, if you want something relatively simple but with enough space for short-term living/cruising, the West Wight Potter P19 is a great option. For a weekend sailboat it packs a lot into a compact space, with berths for four people as well as a galley equipped with cooler, sink and cooker. Its retractable keel and flat-bottomed hull means you can explore virtually anywhere without even getting your feet wet, and it’s a great choice for trailering. For beginners, the West Wight Potter P19 is ideal thanks to its simple rig, good handling characteristics, easy handling and safety features—foam fore and aft means even if it is flooded the boat is unsinkable. 

Common Challenges for Sailboat Beginners

It’s inevitable that things won’t always be smooth sailing when you’re starting out, but that’s also part of the fun of learning a new skill. Don’t forget to ask for help and advice along the way from those who have been sailing for a while, be kind to yourself when you don’t get things right, and enjoy the process and sense of achievement as you improve. Some of main hurdles to overcome include:

• Understanding the laws and regulations: It can seem like a complicated minefield in the beginning understanding what the boating laws are and which licenses and paperwork you need in order to sail in different parts of the U.S. and beyond. As well as taking sailing courses, there are lots of official online resources these days to give you a state-by-state overview. A good starting point are our guides on what qualifications you need as a first time boater , and which licenses you need to drive or sail a boat . 
• Learning boating jargon: It can often sound like learning a whole new language and it’s easy to feel confused or frustrated by all the terminology there is to learn in boating. But it’s fun too, and soon you’ll be part of the club and using words that land-lubbers don’t understand. Taking a sailing course can help to speed up this learning process. 
• Getting comfortable being on a sailboat: This might sound strange, but getting your sea legs is a big part of learning to sail and one that can take some people longer than others. While seasickness can rear its head at times, for most it's learning to get around on a moving vessel with ease and safety that takes a while to master. 
• Tying knots: This can either be one of the most fun new things to learn or one of the most frustrating, but either way knots are a vital part of sailing for safety reasons. Start off easily with a few simple, common knots and just keep practicing. You’ll get the hang of it and be able to do them in your sleep in no time. 
• Knowing the minimum amount of information to be safe and competent . In 2017 the US Coast Guard developed the American National Standards for Sailing Training (EDU-3). They then acknowledged sailing education bodies that teach to this standard. To date, NauticEd is the only education body meeting the standard. The course that meets the standard for small keelboats (up to 25 feet) is the NauticEd Skipper Small Keelboat Course. For an even more basic getting started course, NauticEd developed a 3-hour online course that covers the basics called Introduction to Sailing.

Related articles:

What are the Different Types of Sailboats?

Small Sailboat Types

This article was most recently updated in June 2023 by John Burnham

Written By: Samantha Wilson

Samantha Wilson has spent her entire life on and around boats, from tiny sailing dinghies all the way up to superyachts. She writes for many boating and yachting publications, top charter agencies, and some of the largest travel businesses in the industry, combining her knowledge and passion of boating, travel and writing to create topical, useful and engaging content.

More from: Samantha Wilson

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Better Sailing

Best Sailboats with 3 Cabins

Are you looking for chartering or buying a new or used 3-cabin sailboat? Do you want to sail around the world with your family, friends, or partner? Nowadays, there are a lot of spacious and reliable 3-cabin sailboats that can serve your needs and preferences. Always remember to conduct thorough research before buying a sailboat in order for you to live or sail on it with adequate comfort and space. Choosing a well-designed, robust, spacious, and seaworthy sailboat is the key to successful passagemaking. So, are you looking to accomplish your dream and sail overseas with a 3-cabin sailboat? Then, continue reading this article. I’m going to list the best 3-cabin sailboats to live on and travel overseas as well as their characteristics. Follow me!

For more than four decades the Amel brand has managed to build robust and reliable long-range cruising yachts. The Amel 55 ensures a comfortable motion while sailing and her long waterline length offers great speed potential. Moreover, she provides excellent protection on deck because of her wheel shelter at the end of the cockpit as well as ample space in the cockpit area. As for the rigging, the cutter headed ketch rig is fully furling, and has electric reefing on the mainsail, genoa, and a set of electric sheet winches. Another great characteristic is that she has double bow rollers which allow two anchors to be carried on the bow. The saloon has a huge table with wrap-around seating, plenty of handholds, and enough space for stowage.

Furthermore, she has a three-cabin layout; forward is situated the main cabin with enough headroom, and aft you can choose either a huge stateroom or a pair of cabins with double or side-by-side beds. Lastly, forward, aft and main bulkheads are watertight with rubber seals on the door and have a strongback so as to close firmly. All these amenities, space, easy-handling, and excellent performance while sailing, should be considered by anyone planning long-term cruising.

Elan Impression 40.1

This sailboat is widely popular in the charter market. She offers great volume aft that allows for extra storage under the helmsman seats and has extra space forward in the cockpit. The rig features a powerful overlapping headsail which is the main driving force behind the sailboat when the engine is off. Moreover, she has a simple overall set-up which makes her easy to handle. The interior layout features a linear affair running down the starboard side including a large fridge. To port, there’s a very large convertible saloon sofa as well as a chart table.

Furthermore, there’s a double berth forward and a bunk room just to port with the heads/shower to starboard. So, you benefit from a larger double berth with heads to port and a separate shower room to starboard. Lastly, you can choose between four different cabin layouts; for the 3-cabin layout, there are two roomy cabins aft and an en-suite forward cabin with enough storage under the bed.

Oceanis 40.1

The 39ft Oceanis 40.1 offers plenty of deck volume, interior space and ensures high performance while sailing. She is available in different layouts, draughts, and rigs, so as to satisfy each sailor’s needs and preferences. A spacious family cruiser, with a wide cockpit, and enough speed without minimizing her capabilities in terms of performance and handling. She has the standard in-mast furling mainsail and as well as an optional genoa and a standard self-tacking jib. Below, there’s a big saloon, a C-shaped galley, a double cabin forward, and one double cabin or two cabins aft with bunk beds. So, you have all amenities to satisfy a family’s needs. A comfy cockpit, a spacious saloon, 3 roomy cabins, and a large practical galley for use in port. You can buy a new Oceanis 40.1 for $257,400 and even schedule a test drive through the company’s website.

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 36i

This high-performance cruiser with her exceptional hi-tech construction ensures powerful offshore sailing. With her fractional rig, high-aspect blade rudders, 3rd generation hull construction, and perfectly capable of sailing upwind, she’s a classic example of a modern performance cruiser. You can select the 3-cabin option, aft cabin with a double bed and the other two with bunks or doubles. The central saloon has clever design touches with a removable dining table leaf to seat and extra settee space. Also, a big L-shaped galley at the foot of the companionway, to starboard, and the head and shower stall just opposite, to port. As you can see the boat’s overall appeal offers great amenities along with excellent sailing performance.

This is a 39ft 3-cabin sailboat adequate for 6 or 8 persons. She has a wide and straight hull as well as a spacious cockpit that provides enough space to move around, relax, and dine outdoors. On the stern, there’s a platform that is located lower to the hull of the ship. The platform is separated from the cockpit with a bench below and is very easy to lower and raise, as well as store items and additional equipment. Furthermore, you can choose between three different types of interior or 2 different cabin layouts. She has a modern and functional interior equipped with comfy furniture. Due to her abundant space below deck, the sailboat can offer a three-bath double cabin layout or 3 small but comfortable cabins with enough headroom.

This sailboat is carefully designed so as to ensure comfort and a spacious interior to live in. The layout of Hunter 38 has an L-shaped galley to starboard at the foot of the companionway, a nav station to port, and a dining area amidships. Moreover, the salon has a 6’6” headroom and the galley has a fridge, a sink, a stove/oven, and cabinets for storage. The V-berth and both aft cabins can accommodate 2 people each. Also, all 3 cabins have hanging lockers and enough storage space. Also, the 2-compartment single head is connected with doors to both the main cabin and the aft stateroom. Her base price starts from $144,990 and is ideal for coastal cruising and family outings.

Bavaria Cruiser 34

The Bavaria 34 has similar hull construction with her previous models 32 and 33. However, this one is more spacious and with a few new bits of restyled bodywork as well as more interior options. She’s generally responsive and enjoyable on the helm while sailing. Despite this, deck stowage around the cockpit is limited to just two depth lockers in the aft cockpit seating. But below deck, there’s a quite large saloon, big and functional galley with all basic amenities, and 3 roomy cabins. The option of three double cabins can accommodate a family of 6 and the port cabin offers a big head compartment. Lastly, she’s easy to sail and handle and ensures a great combination of quality and value. In other words, she’s like a home away from home!

Best Sailboats with 3 Cabins – Final Thoughts

These are some great 3-cabin sailboats adequate for either offshore sailing or just for coastal cruises and family outings. Remember that everything depends on some important factors that determine which 3-cabin sailboat is the right for you. These factors are your sailing routes, your budget, your needs, interior comforts, sailing performance, and your crew members. So, you need to consider everything before buying a new or used 3-cabin sailboat. For example, if you’re just sailing around a bay and anchoring a lot with your family, you don’t need a high-performance sailboat. On the other hand, if you’re sailing offshore for a long time and you have 5 more persons in your crew then you’d require a spacious, reliable, and fast sailboat. In any case, there’s a wide variety of different options out there to choose from and you’ll definitely find what you’re looking for. Bon voyage!

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

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• Cabin Cruiser Boats

The Best Cabin Cruiser Boats in 2024

We gave our Boating Team one job: To find the best and most popular cabin cruisers and review them.

Our writers and editorial team conducted interviews, researched specs and drew upon our collective expertise to write unbiased reviews.

A cabin cruiser is a great choice for families and those who want to cruise a little further . For those of us who love being on the water and by the water, this type of vessel is great for entertaining and getting away.

It hits the mark between an RV and a floating luxury hotel room. Although they give you many comforts of larger yachts, they cost much less and are easier to operate.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best cabin cruisers money can buy in 2024.

Notice the different sizes and pay attention to some of the really smart features. Check out some videos in the guide at the bottom.

See our quick top 15, or go further down and read our in-depth reviews.

The Top 5 Cabin Cruiser Boats in 2024

All the cabin cruiser boats we've tested, sea ray slx 400 ob.

Where to buy:

Where to buy sea ray slx 400 ob:.

Sea Ray’s flagship is the SLX 400 OB, a 42-foot platform with outstanding use of space and basic accommodations, that embodies bowrider performance and social options with cabin cruiser comfort.

All told, this boat has seating for up to 22 people and can reach 60 mph.

The SLX 400 is “The Entertainer,” dubbed for the copious space for lounging and hanging out on deck. The starboard side features a fold-down swim terrace extending the boat’s beam by three feet and adding room to the swim platform. A well-appointed wet bar galley with electric grills stands opposite a huge L-shaped settee and table.

If you’re worried that driving this 20,000-pound boat might feel sluggish, think again. The Mercury V-8s get the boat to plane in just under five seconds. The ride is solid and comfortable, with automatic trim tabs and an optional Seakeeper gyro stabilizer. When it comes time to head home, the Mercury joystick steering makes even the trickiest docking scenarios easy as cake.

• Length: 42 feet, 2 inches
• Beam: 12 feet, 1 inch
• Draft: 45 inches max, 32 inches engines up
• Weight: 20,678 pounds dry
• Capacity: Yacht Certified
• Fuel Tank: 375 gallons
• Water Tank: 50 gallons
• Engine: 3x Mercury 300 Verado V-8 outboards with joystick (upgradable to twin 600-hp V-12s )
• Top Speed: 45 knots (51.8 mph)

Things we like:

Things we don't like:, axopar 45 xc.

Where to buy Axopar 45 XC:

The latest boat from Finnish builder Axopar is nothing short of a bigger, better adventure machine. The Axopar 45 XC Cross Cabin features a glorious upper pilothouse and salon, terrace seating, a customizable aft deck, and the option for two cabins and two heads.

A wave-cutting V-hull shape puts the performance of this adventure boat in focus, but the surprising amenities crammed into this platform impress equally as much.

Dive into the in-depth to investigate the details surrounding the Axopar 45 XC, and see why these boats are becoming so popular worldwide.

• Length: 45 feet, 7 inches/13.9 meters
• Beam: 13 feet, 6 inches/4.11 meters
• Draft: 3 feet, 3 inches/1.0 meters
• Weight (without engines): 15,433 pounds/7,000 kg
• Power: 3x Mercury Verado V-8 300 outboards
• Passengers/CE: Certification B:12/C:16

Tiara Yachts

Tiara 43 LE

Where to buy Tiara 43 LE:

The Tiara 43 LE is the first in the company’s new series of performance cabin cruisers. If it looks fast, it’s because it is fast. This boat, powered by twin Mercury V12 outboards churning out a combined 1,200 horsepower, gets up to 30 in about 11 seconds and tops out around 54 miles per hour.

As is expected from a brand like Tiara, this small motor yacht is beautifully appointed and well-equipped. The entire port gunwale opens into a large swim platform, opening up the cockpit space for water-fun or entertaining.

Down below, the boat has a large island berth forward and a separate double stateroom to midship. The pilothouse is enclosed with tempered glass all around and provides awesome visibility and all-season comfort.

All in all, the Tiara 43LE is a cabin cruiser that drives with power and elegance. Unlike other vessels in the class, however, this boat lacks a common area to work and eat, like a large cockpit table or a dinette in the pilothouse. The seating arrangements work great for socializing on the water, but you might want to look at the 48LE for overnights or longer-distance voyaging.

• Length Overall (LOA): 43'6"
• Dry Weight: 23,300 lbs.
• Draft: 3'5"
• Fuel Tank: 400 gal.
• Water Tank: 60 gal.
• Holding Tank: 40 gal.
• Power: 2x Mercury 600 Verado V12 Outboards
• Top Speed: 47.4 knots (54.6 mph)
• Cruising Speed: 37.4 knots (43.1 mph)
• Fuel Burn at Cruise: 61.6 gph
• Range at Cruise: 219 nm (252 mi)
• Grand Banks

Eastbay Yachts

The Grand Banks Eastbay 44

Where to buy The Grand Banks Eastbay 44:

The Eastbay 44 from Grand Banks is the company’s smallest Downeast cabin cruiser. It’s one of the first boats released by the brand under the leadership of CEO Mark Richards.

In a world filled with production boats, here is a moving work of art—a boat built as good as it looks that can carry you and your family to distant shores with comfort and ease.

A joystick control and widely-spaced engines make docking in tight spaces easy. Responsive throttles and the deep-vee hull make shooting even the roughest inlet a non-event.

But the resounding virtue of the Eastbay 44 is its build quality. This brand prides itself on pursuing perfection, and the Eastbay 44 might be the closest thing to it in the small motor yacht or cabin cruiser categories.

The Eastbay draws on the heritage of the Maine lobster boat. She’s beamy for a spacious interior and a stable ride. Her attractive, low-profile design contrasts the angular and tall flybridge offerings of her competition. And her beautifully appointed pilothouse is perfectly sheltered from the elements when you want to be. But, with the push of the button, the windows open, and the space has as much fresh air as you’d ever want.

• Length Overall: 48'10"
• Length On Deck: 43'7"
• Beam: 14'7"
• Displacement: 36,883 lbs.
• Engine: 2x Volvo Penta D6-IPS 650S (480 hp, six-cylinder, pod-drive diesels)
• Top Speed: 33 knots (38 mph)
• Cruise Speed: 28 knots (32 mph) at 27 gallons per hour
• Cruise Range: 492 nautical miles
• Fuel Tank: 581 gal.
• Water Tank: 194 gal.
• Holding Tank: 41 gal.

Jeanneau US

Jeanneau Worldwide

Jeanneau Merry Fisher 1295

Where to Book:

Where to book jeanneau merry fisher 1295:.

All new for 2023, Jeanneau has introduced the Merry Fisher 1295 Fly, also called the NC Weekender 1295 Fly. At just over 40 feet, this true three-level yacht boasts three staterooms, two heads, tons of comfortable seating and lounge space, and enough storage to bring all your stuff with you.

Beyond helm features for easier docking, this cabin cruiser is designed to carry you and your family comfortably. There’s not really another 40-foot flybridge that offers as much as the 1295 for the same price point.

The spacious salon level features sliding glass doors that open onto the aft cockpit. The aft galley is fully appointed and allows for the perfect flow for socialization during meals and hanging out. The cockpit features a walkthrough boarding door to port and a large fold-down swim terrace to starboard.

Finally, the staterooms and heads are large and comfortable, with plenty of storage and headroom below.

• Length: (Overall/Hull) 41 feet, 2 inches/12.56 meters; 39 feet, 1 inch/11.92 meters
• Beam: 12 feet, 6 inches/3.80 meters
• Draft: 2 feet, 6 inches/0.76 meters
• Hull Weight: 18,031 pounds/8,181 kilograms
• Bridge Clearance: 16 feet, 5 inches/5.0 meters
• Fuel Capacity: 310 gallons/1,174 liters
• Engines: 3x 300 horsepower Yamaha outboards
• CE Category: B10/C12

Rinker Boats

Rinker 270 Express Cruiser

Where to buy Rinker 270 Express Cruiser:

The Rinker boat company may have gone the way of the dinosaurs, but the 270 Express Cruiser will be around for a while. Polaris has assumed ownership and support for these agile cruisers.

Enjoy 6’5” cabin headroom, a fully equipped galley, a head with wet shower, and sleeping quarters that can stretch 4 people if it has to.

Rinker has designed a smaller boat that has designs that make it seem bigger. Step inside and see how functionality isn’t compromised by a more streamlined setup.

An older, discontinued model, but a good one.

And the Express Cruiser certainly loves to move, meaning you got the amenities in something that motors like a speed boat.

Wakeboarding and tubing is quite a reasonable thing to do with the 270.

Choose either the MerCruiser SeaCore Drive or the workhorse Volvo Penta OceanX Drive for gasoline or diesel motors respectively.

As an update, this model seems to be discontinued, but as a used boat for sale with low running hours, it could be an affordable way to satisfaction.

• Length: 28’10”
• Dry weight: 7,085lbs
• Capacity: sleeps 4
• Motor : Inboard MerC (gasoline) or Volvo Penta (Diesel)

Regal Boats

Regal 42 Fly

Where to buy Regal 42 Fly:

This spacious flybridge yacht is one of Regal’s flagships. It’s a cabin cruiser that flirts with the lifestyle aboard a larger motor yacht.

She’s already spacious, but the large windows add an incredibly open and light-filled feeling to all the spaces below.

The flybridge has a welcoming open layout for hanging out in the sun with 4-6 friends, and the upper salon, with its fully appointed galley, makes meal prep easy. Below decks, you’ll find two large staterooms, one with a queen-sized island berth and the other with an even larger king that can convert to two twins.

There’s a choice of adding an extra head instead of the lower galley and adding privacy walls. Performance-wise, driving this boat with Regal’s high-quality gauges and consoles will be a pleasure.

• Length: 41 feet, 11 inches
• Beam: 13 feet
• Draft: 44 inches
• Dry Weight: 27,400 lbs.
• Fuel Tank: 258 gal.
• Water Tank: 73 gal.
• Power Options: 2x Volvo D6 diesel with IPS drive (870 hp)

Back Cove Yachts

Back Cove 34O

Where to buy Back Cove 34O:

The perfectly balanced combination of performance, comfort, and downeast seaworthiness make the Back Cove 34O a cruising couple’s dream.

Her entirely new hull features Trailing Edge Lifting Surface (TRELIS) *D* design technology and is fitted with a standard bow thruster. The 34O delivers cruise and top-end speeds approximately 10 knots faster than the traditional single diesel Back Cove.

Built with entertaining in mind, the cockpit boasts an elegant salon with a versatile and comfortable settee along with a fully equipped galley. The aft-facing seat converts into a helm deck U-shaped dinette or second berth.

We’ve been seeing the double outboard motor solution on bigger boats in the last few years, and the Back Cove 340 does it pretty well. With twin 300hp Yamahas (or upgrade to 350hp with optional Suzuki), the performance of this cabin cruiser seems like a ski boat when it gets the chance to stretch its legs.

A couple of highlights of this cabin cruiser is the inventive helm step that provides excellent visibility as well as loads of storage space below the helm deck—large enough to fit all your water toys and fishing gear.

When dusk turns to dark, head over to the spacious master cabin where you’ll find a large and comfortable bed as well as a separate head and shower.

• Length: 38’11”
• Beam: 11’10”
• Dry weight: 17,000lbs
• Motor: 2 outboards

Azimut Yachts

Azimut Magellano 43

Where to buy Azimut Magellano 43:

The Azimut Magellano 43 deserves a place in our list for her unparalleled mix of solid-performance with uber-luxurious surroundings. It’s a cabin cruiser built for long-range yachting. You’ll want to just keep sailing on.

It features three decks of pure sophistication and attention to detail. It comes with three cabins, two full heads, a fully equipped galley, and loads of room to walk around, entertain, and relax.

Designed for luxury cruising, this trawler-inspired vessel comes with the unique Dual Mode hull, which ensures comfortable navigation and excellent seafaring even in choppy, deep-sea conditions.

This cabin cruiser, like the Grand Banks in this list, challenges the category and will likely be referred to by their owners and spectators as a beautiful yacht . That’s where this model fits on this list: a cabin cruiser boat that’s bigger in every way, including style and price.

It’s designed for extended voyages on bigger seas, but it’ll generate attention in the marina. The Magellano’s size will, however, make finding a slip difficult, so bear this in mind.

• Length: 43’10”
• Beam: 14’5”
• Dry weight: 38,800lbs
• Capacity: sleeps 5+
• Motor: 2 Inboard

Intrepid Powerboats

Intrepid 41 Valor

Where to buy Intrepid 41 Valor:

One of the most recent additions to the Intrepid Powerboats line-up is the 41 Valor, a cabin cruiser designed for performance.

Despite the temptation of doing the next Key West Poker Run, it features a clean and crisp design and offers you and your guests loads of comfort and space for a memorable day of cruising or a pleasant overnight stay.

The large wraparound cockpit lounge is great for entertaining. Add the optional wet bar and the party is complete.

The private retreat below the cockpit includes a large queen-size berth in the aft, a galley on the starboard side, a private head with shower stall on the port side along with a V-shaped settee that can also be converted into a berth with the optional Hi-Lo table and filler cushion.

As with all Intrepids, it also features the company’s signature stepped hull, which delivers a smooth, dry ride with unmatched performance. With 2 or 3 outboard motors to choose from–including Evinrude 200 up to Mercury 450R–the Poker Run is calling!

• Length: 41'85'’
• Beam: 11’9”
• Motor: 2 or 3 outboards

Regal 33 Express

Where to buy Regal 33 Express:

One of the best cabin cruisers we know of, the Regal 33 Express has everything you need to spend as much time on the water as you like. No small feat considering its diminutive size.

This boat has a spacious cockpit with well-thought-out seating options making it maneuverable and more  manageable than bigger cruisers.

Everyone will fight over their spot on the “UltraLounge,” an electrically activated four-position seat on the stern that is comfortable no matter how you use it. A cockpit bar-style galley has space for a fridge and electric grill.

Down below, the 33 Express has an enormous king-sized midship berth that can convert to two large twins. There’s a dinette built around a small galley and a convertible bunk forward that folds up and out of the settee. The head is large and features an electric toilet and a separate shower.

• Length: 34 feet, 3 inches
• Beam: 10 feet, 4 inches
• Draft (min/max): 21/37 inches
• Dry Weight: 13,200 lbs.
• Fuel Tank: 150 gal.
• Water Tank: 36 gal.
• Power Options: 2x Volvo V6 (560 hp) or 2x Volvo V8 (600 or 700 hp); or outboard power on the Regal 33XO

Sabre Yachts

Sabre Salon Express 38

Where to buy Sabre Salon Express 38:

Classic Downeast lines paired with all the right features make the Sabre Salon Express 38 “a boat that boaters recognize.”

This pocket cruising yacht —ideal for a couple or a small family—boasts an open, elegant, and inviting salon which opens up to an equally spacious and comfortable cockpit, great for entertaining and al fresco dining.

The cabin below comes with a fully equipped galley, a lounge, a master berth, as well as a full head. Add plenty of stowage to this cruiser and summer voyage is both realistic and uncompromising.

The classic profile, thrilling performance, and low sound levels make the Sabre SE 38 an icon of nautically sensible design.

• Length: 41’9”
• Beam: 13’4”
• Dry weight: 21,000lbs
• Capacity: Yacht certified
• Motor: 2 inboards

Jeanneau America

Jeanneau NC1095 Fly

Where to buy Jeanneau NC1095 Fly:

The NC1095 Fly is the culmination of a practical approach to a cabin cruiser with intelligent design spawned by a modern interpretation of what cruising is all about. This is an amazing 3 stateroom, 35-foot boat that can so easily be called a home away from home.

This is a plus model option to Juneau’s 35 foot flagship NC1095 that adds the flybridge for those lovely sunny days when you can lavish in getting closer to the sun. It has ample space in the aft section of the cockpit with a movable sofa seat when tilting the two outboard motors.

The salon itself is full of storage cubbies, a long galley table with sink and stove and a modular table that doubles as an additional berth. With the cockpit enclosure around the aft seating area, the living space becomes that much more impressive in a 35 footer.

The Fly is easily big enough for a family or a small party to while away a weekend or a summer playing cards, reading, while cruising to another horizon.

As a performance vessel, the NC1095 Fly handles like a bowrider . It’s twin Yamaha outboards are quiet but insistent and the controls–including bow thruster–make turning, docking, navigating intuitive and responsive. Powered by Garmin instruments with optional auto-pilot solutions, even less-experienced mariners will feel more at ease behind the wheel.

Speaking of space again, the recessed starboard side deck makes for quick access for laying out fenders and moorings, while access to the boat’s mechanical, power and fuel systems makes visual inspection and maintenance that much easier.

The V-berth stateroom has a lot of natural light and smart storage. The second berth has plenty of space with standing room too, while the third stateroom–a little smaller–still has a double bunk and an optional second fridge.

Built in the Cadillac, Michigan factory the venerable Juneau Yacht company has joined its artisan past with its desire to adapt and improve. The flydeck variant of their motor boat flagship is testament to Juneau’s history of understanding what works and doing it even better.

• Length: 34’3”
• Dry weight: 11,685lbs
• Capacity: Sleeps up to 8

Sea Ray Sundancer 320

Where to buy Sea Ray Sundancer 320:

In many ways, it was the Sundancer that made Sea Ray famous. With their classy blend of speed and overnight accommodations, these express cruisers are the perfect size for most boaters looking to get out on the water and enjoy a second home away from home.

Sundancers in the 31 to 32-foot range have long been the best sellers. It’s the Goldilocks boat that is neither too large nor too small. The current Sundancer 320 is available with either Mercruiser sterndrive or Mercury outboard power.

The Sundancer features some of the great technology you’ll find in other Sea Rays, including the submersible swim platform and plush seating. The bow now features a clever sun lounge with a walkway and removable table, making a much more functional space compared to similar cabin cruisers of the past.

• Length: 32 feet, 10 inches
• Beam: 10 feet, 7 inches
• Draft (max/min): 41 inches/30 inches
• Weight: 14,000 pounds
• Power: 2x Mercruiser 6.2L MPI ECT Bravo Three X (300 hp each)
• Number of people: Yacht Certified
• Fuel: 158 gallons

Jeanneau Leader 33

Where to buy Jeanneau Leader 33:

Cruise in functional style aboard the Leader 33. A moderately sized cabin cruiser with surprising space and plush interiors, the Leader 33 is a good entry boat into touring.

Available in two versions: an Open version with an arch and a Sport Top version with an electrically opening hard top, the Leader 33 boasts a spacious and functional layout which makes relaxing and entertaining a breeze.

Long windows in the hull offer beautiful sea views along with plenty of natural light in the cabin below. Also, two galleys, two sleeping berths, and an expansive head with a separate shower stall make the Leader 33 the ideal boat for a weekend getaway.

Junneau is a well-established name and there are plenty of solid used options for this model. When you find one for sale at a dealer or marina, take it for a spin.

• Length: 34’8”
• Dry weight: 10,829lbs

Regal 38 SAV

Where to buy Regal 38 SAV:

The Regal 38 SAV defies being put in a category. It looks like a simple center console, but it has the amenities of a fully-furbished cabin cruiser. It will thrive in the warm Gulf waters and the Caribbean.

The SAV stands for Sports Activity Vessel. In other words, it’s an SUV on the water with the functionality to match its name. Adjustable seating and the ability to go to the beach and go on a blue water cruise will keep the whole family happy, whether fishing, cruising, tanning, or playing in the water.

If you’re in the market for a boat that can comfortably entertain a crowd or take the family on a comfortable cruise, the 38 SAV is worth a look. While not as performance-oriented as other options, it offers features and a layout comparable to the Tiara 43 LE or Sea Ray SLX 400 but at a friendlier price point than either. If you want something with a fully enclosed cockpit, check out the Regal LS36 .  

• Length: 39 feet, 3 inches
• Beam: 11 feet, 11 inches
• Draft (min/max): 23/31 inches
• Dry Weight: 18,800 lbs.
• Fuel Tank: 340 gal.
• Power Options: 3x Yamaha 300 hp outboard

Related Reviews

Read full review

A Quick Guide to Cabin Cruisers 

They need a little more than just a cabin under the deck to be called a cabin cruiser. Think  bowrider or runabout  and expand outwards with a mind toward extending your daytrip so it potentially never ends. That entails more space and comfort like you get with your typical luxury yacht combined with performance associated with the bowriders.

The cabin cruisers we have on the list are designed with a maritime intelligence that incorporates deep and fundamental logic required to make recreational sailing as a lifestyle both safe and enjoyable. A model like the NC1095 Fly is a great example of a modern interpretation of a cabin cruiser that really embodies the maritime equivalent of a newer RV.

When deciding what vessel is right for you, figure out how much space you need, how long you’re going to be cruising and pay particular attention to how comfortable you feel navigating tighter waterways and docking. Smaller craft like the Chris-Craft 34 are easier to wrap your head around and if your needs and horizons are closer to home than this is a good vessel for cruising shorter overnight excursions and even navigating smaller waterways like river systems.

The bigger boats, like the Grand Banks 44, will appeal to longer voyages further out at sea. These are vessels that could even traverse the Atlantic–for the intrepid mariner–and have a great go of the Mediterranean.

While size will increase the challenges when navigating and docking (make sure to use boat fenders when docking), these modern cabin cruisers have been designed so well in order to make the pilot seem a steady, old hand at the helm.

Consider the need for bow thrusters, whether you want inboard motors or outboard motors (the latter tend to be cheaper and easier to maintain), air conditioning/heating, where you can get a boat slip and how readily available guest slips are for boats with the different beams (width).

These boats are still relatively easy to operate but they can go quite fast on the water. Remember to observe the customs and rules on the waves. Most importantly: enjoy.

Take a look at these videos that demonstrate some of the models on our list:

Continue reading our Boat Reviews:

• 7 Best Regal Boats 
• SeaRay Boats
• 8 Best StarCraft Boats
• 5 Best Crestliner Boats
• 13 Best Lowe Boats
• 7 Best Center Console Boats

Frequently asked questions

A cabin cruiser is a type of powerboat that typically ranges from 25 to 45 feet in length. Because they come with sleeping, cooking, and bathroom facilities they are a top choice for weekend trips but also manageable enough for quick day trips.

These are some of the best cabin cruiser brands on the market today:

• Cruiser Yachts

Prices will vary depending on the size as well as the included amenities.

A cabin cruiser usually costs between U$100,000 to U$700,000. However, more sophisticated models, like the  East Bay 44  can go for as much as U$1 million.

Cabin cruisers are very similar to larger yachts. They can cruise long distances and they offer many facilities that help keep passengers comfortable during long haul trips, but unlike a large yacht, a cabin cruiser boat does not require a professional crew aboard.

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Table of content:, breadcrumbs.

• / Cabin Cruiser Boats

Love it! It would be fun to test drive each!

It’s possible to test a lot of them at a boat show. Board and check out the interior and, if you’re lucky, join along for a sea trial.

This is great feedback, and we’ll take it into account when updating our guides.

This is a great list. I keep coming back to them to discover more manufacturers and models. Is it possible, however, to add cost ranges to these models or generic $$$ cost brackets. The boat companies all like to hide the cost and not knowing the brands I am spending most of my time trying to figure out which one is the best value. You mentioned a range of $100k to $700k but I have yet to find the $100k model

What are the best “hardtop Express Cruisers in the 36′ LOA range with OB engines and a fully enclosed weatherproof helm/salon area? I would like a boat that can sleep six adults.

Hey Keith. Thank you for your service. Some of the boat makers have military discounts like Crestliner (for fishing boats mainly: https://www.crestliner.com/specials/military-discount/ ), but talk to the guys at your local marina. I’ve found that they do reward service with a price cut sometimes. Check out these guys too: https://www.harborsidemarinesales.com/

Hello Is there a disabled veteran discount?

Continue reading

Krash FootRocket Pro

Ronstan Sticky

Uniden MHS335BT

Gallery of cabin cruiser boats review.

A variety of Cabin Cruiser boats on water

Photo courtesy Tiara Yachts.

The Axopar cross cabin is an adventure boat with overnighting options.

The Merry Fisher 1295 Fly jumps on plane and tops out at about 40 knots.

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9 Affordable Boats With Enclosed Cabins (with pictures)

Boats with enclosed cabins are great for boaters who want to spend a little more time out on the water.  Unfortunately, they are often out of the price ranges of most people.

However, just because most boats with enclosed cabins tend to be expensive, it doesn’t mean that they all are.

In this post, we’ll talk about nine affordable boats with enclosed cabins that you can buy today!

Table of Contents

Cuddy Cabins

Cuddy cabins are great boats for people on a budget who are looking for a boat that offers an enclosed sleeping space.  These little boats provide their owners with an interior cabin at the front of the boat that can be set up to sit in or to sleep in.

However, they typically do not offer any other amenities such as galleys or heads.

This makes them great for day trips, weekend adventures, and boat camping excursions, but not very good for full-time living.

Related Article: 6 Popular Low-Draft Boats for Shallow Water (With Pictures)

The Bayliner VR5 Cuddy

The Bayliner VR5 Cuddy is a 20’4” boat with a hull length of 18’4” a beam of 8’, and a draft of 2’10”.  A 150HP or 250HP engine can be attached to it, and a 33-gallon fuel tank is built to fuel these engines.

While this boat isn’t very large, it can still hold up to 8 people.

Of course, these eight people would not be able to move around freely in a boat of this size, but they would have plenty of seating options as this boat offers them in abundance.

One of the best features of this boat is its weight.  With the 150HP engine, the boat only weighs 3,131 pounds , and even with the 250HP engine, it only weighs 3,351 pounds.  This means the boat is easily towable for people with small trucks, SUVs, and even some minivans with towing packages.

The main area of this boat has comfortable wrap-around seating, and the captain’s chair swivels around to lineup with an optional teak dining table.  This makes this little cuddy cabin perfect for cruising around on lakes, rivers, the bay, and even through small channels.

2020 models of this boat sell for around $71,000.00. However, this model isn’t completely new to Bayliner, so if you want to reduce your expenses, you could get an older used VR5 for a bit cheaper.

Stingray 208CR Cuddy Cabin

The Stingray 208CR is another 20’ long boat with an 8’ beam.  This boat is a fiberglass boat, and it sports a V6 4.3-C 200 SX engine.  A 34-gallon fuel tank is used to fuel this boat.

Nine people can ride on the 208CR, and two people can sleep inside it.  It even has a freshwater tank of 6 gallons and a 25qt icebox.  With the 200HP engine, the dry weight of the boat is only 3,078 pounds, so it is definitely able to go on a trailer.

Up on deck, you’ll find two captain’s chairs and a bench that could realistically seat three adults.  This area is covered by a small bimini top and a front windshield.

At the stern of the boat, there is a nice little area for launching tubers, water boarders, water skiers, and even swimmers.  To get back onto the boat, one just needs to climb up the extendable ladder.

Move to the front of the boat, and you’ll find a small cabin that offers seating and a little place to sleep.  This area can also house a small portable toilet, but personally, I wouldn’t want to use a toilet in the same area that I intend to sit in and sleep in, so it’s best left for emergencies.

I couldn’t imagine being on this boat with eight other people, but it is perfect for a group of four or five people who want to have a nice day out on the water.  Passengers can rotate between doing water sports and resting in the cabin, and a couple could even spend the night out on the water from time-to-time.

This boat is very reasonably priced at $39,180.00 for a brand new 2020 model.

This cabin cannot be closed so you might want some special boat lights to keep mosquitos away .

Atlas Boat Works Pompano 23

The Pompano 23 is 23’ long and has a 7’ beam.  The dry weight on it is only 2,100 pounds, so it is easy to tow.  It has a small fuel capacity of only 30 gallons, but this should be plenty considering how light the boat is.  Also, the engine capacity is only 115HP max, so the engine won’t be eating up a lot of full either.

One of the nice features of this boat is that the cockpit can be enclosed with a canvas enclosure.  This gives the boat an additional indoor area on top of the small cuddy cabin.  You could use this to get changed in or simply to get out of the wind and sun.  Also, the stern of the boat is completely covered with a bimini top, so you never actually have to expose yourself to the hot midday sun.

Inside the cabin, you’ll find a small vee berth and a portable toilet .  The berth can be converted to a small sitting area, but most people probably won’t use it as it is quite small.

Campion Allante 635

The 2019 Campion Allante 635 is a 22’ long fiberglass boat with a 200hp outboard gas engine.  This engine is fueled by a 60-gallon fuel tank, which is massive for a boat this size.  The larger fuel tank would be perfect for owners who want to spend a few nights out on the water in their little cuddy cabin.

Up on deck, there are two captain’s chairs and a small sitting area for four to five people behind them.  This sitting area has a round table attached to it with two built-in cup holders.  Move through this area, and there is a nice opening that can be used to access the rear of the boat.

Head inside the cabin, and once again, you’ll find a small sitting area that can be converted into a two-person sleeping area.  There is also a portable toilet that fits in between the sitting area.

The only dry weight listing I could find for the boat was 2,800 pounds , but it doesn’t list whether or not this weight includes the weight of the motor.

However, even if you add a couple of hundred pounds for the engine, you’ll still have a boat that is light enough and small enough to be towed easily.

Pricing for this boat is in the neighborhood of $50,000.00.

Cabin Cruisers

Cabin cruisers provide a lot more usable interior space.  They make wonderful weekend getaway boats and can even be used for extended vacations.  Some people even use these boats as full-time homes , but they are a bit limited in space for this purpose.

A cabin cruiser will feature at least one berth and will usually offer a head and a galley.  It may even offer multiple berths and even a lounge area.  You can often find these with air conditioners and heaters, and a generator can even be added to power these amenities when the boat isn’t running.

People who want a yacht but can’t quite afford one just yet often turn to cabin cruisers as they offer many of the benefits of a yacht but in a smaller package.

Related Article: How Much Do Boats Weigh? 11 Types (Numbers & Pictures)

Boston Whaler Conquest 285

The Boston Whaler Conquest 285 is a smaller cabin cruiser.

Its length is 27’10,” and its beam is 9’6”  The dry weight without the engine is 7,300 pounds.  This is light enough that the boat could be trailered with a larger truck, but the width would make it difficult to tow around realistically.

With the high weight of the boat comes a large engine.  The engine on this is a 500HP engine.  This engine is fueled with a 200-gallon fuel tank.

The outside features a few captain’s chairs and a nice standing area that could be used for fishing.  This area also features a fridge and a small sink as well. At the bow, there is a small door so that the rear can be accessed for water sports.

The cockpit is completely enclosed, and there is seating for three.  Head through the cockpit, and you can enter the main salon, which features a berth that converts to a dining table, a small head, and a small kitchen.  There is also a cabin inside as well, which has a berth that can convert to a small seating area.

A thirty-gallon freshwater tank supplies the bathroom and kitchen with clean water, and a 6.5-gallon wastewater tank provides black water storage.  There is also a 26 gallon live well as well.

This boat sells new for several hundred thousand dollars, but you can buy them used for less than $50,000.00.

Grady White Express 330

The Grady White Express 330 is a 33’6” boat with an 11’7” beam.  It weighs 10,840 pounds without the engines.  The engine capacity is 850 HP, which comes in the form of two rear outboard motors.  To fuel these motors, there is a 331-gallon fuel tank.

The exterior of the boat is set up for cruising and for fishing, and the deck can be converted to be used for either purpose as there are foldaway benches built into it.  There is also a side door with a boarding ladder that could be used for swimmers and divers.

Related Article: How Do You Find the Owner of a Boat? (With Examples)

Inside the cabin, you’ll find a forward vee berth, a double aft berth, a seating area with a 28” television, a port side galley, and a head with a 10-gallon holding tank.  With all of these items inside the cabin, there really isn’t a lot of room to move around.  This being said, you do have everything you could need for a long weekend or even a minimalistic full-time life out on the water.

A new Grady White Express 330 is going to cost over a quarter of a million dollars. 

However, you can buy used models for less than six figures.  Also, remember that a fiberglass boat can easily last a lifetime, so an investment in a 20-year-old Express 330 could be a great alternative to buying a summer vacation home.

Rinker 270 Express Cruiser

The Rinker 270 Express Cruiser is a 28’10” boat with an 8’6” beam.  It has a dry weight of 7,095 pounds and can sleep up to four people.

One of the best features of this boat is that it is small enough to be put on a trailer and large enough to live in.  This makes it very desirable for weekend adventurers and for people who wish to travel around the country with their boat in tow.

On top of this, the boat’s cabin offers 6’5” of headroom, which is more than many campers have to offer these days.

Inside the cabin, you’ll find a vee berth as well as a double berth on either side of a galley kitchen and a small head.   This kitchen contains a one burner electric stove, a microwave, and a 2.3 cubic foot fridge.  For entertainment, there is a built-in Bluetooth stereo system.

On the outside, the cockpit features seating for three, and it is all covered with a bimini top.  Behind this, there is a section that contains dual benches that face each other.  Just past this is a back deck that would be easy to jump on and off of.  It also houses an extendable ladder that can be used by swimmers.

What I love about this boat is that you can find used models for as little as $20,000.00 and even brand new, you won’t have to sell your house to buy one.

Center Console Fishing Boats

Many boat manufacturers have caught onto the fact that it’s easier for anglers to sell their families on the idea of buying a fishing boat that’s also comfortable for passengers.  For this reason, they’re now building center console fishing boats with cabins and seating areas that rival cruising boats.

These boats are great for anglers because they have a full 360-degree area that they can fish from.  On top of this, they can bring their non-fishing family members with them, and they can hang out in the lounge areas or get some rest inside the cabin.

Here are a few examples of center console fishing boats with cabins.

Related Article: 13 Clever Ways to Get a Good Deal on (New) Boats

Scout 350 LXF

The Scout 350 LXF features a large open bow with bench seating and a tanning deck.  The benches and the deck are both padded for additional comfort.

At the rear, there is rearward facing bench seating and plenty of open space for fishing.  This is partially shaded by the center console’s overhead cover.

The center of the boat features a cockpit with a roof and comfortable seating .  It also houses the door leading into the main cabin and adds some additional interior headroom for the shower and galley areas.

There isn’t a lot of room inside the cabin, but you will find a vee berth that converts to a dinette, a small galley kitchen with a sink and a microwave, and a head that houses a toilet and a shower.  These amenities are filled with a 30-gallon freshwater tank.

You could spend a day or even a weekend inside this cabin, but most would probably be reluctant to live inside of it full-time.  This being said, the outside decks are nice enough that you could stay out there in nice weather and never feel like you’re depriving yourself.

The boat comes in at 34’11” with a beam of 10’9”.  It has a deep draft of 23,” and a weight of 10,800 pounds with two twin Yamaha 350 engines included.  Powering the twin engines is a 334-gallon fuel tank.

This boat comes in at over $300,000.00 and might seem unaffordable at first.  However, you have to realize that both fishing boats and cabin cruisers often cost this much, and this boat actually combines both of them into one.

Dusky 227 Fish Around Cruiser

The Dusky 227 is a 22’7” longboat with an 8’2” beam.  This makes it a trailer-safe boat that can be used for fishing, cruising, and even sleeping in.  The engine on the boat is a 230HP engine with a 60-gallon fuel tank.  This fuel capacity is much lower than some of the cabin cruisers we discussed, but it is on-par with the cuddy cabins.

This boat is a lot less plush than some of the other boats we’ve looked at, but it appears to be a lot more functional in terms of fishing capabilities.  The bow features a small bench and an area that could be used for sitting against the rails.  These areas do not have any padding and are molded into the boat, so they should be ridiculously easy to clean, even after a full day of fishing.

There isn’t any seating at the stern or in front of the center console, which would make running around the boat to get to fishing poles a lot easier.  Move into this center console, and you’ll find a small bench that can be converted into a small vee berth.  Inside the bench is a storage compartment.

For people who want a little more luxury, a bench seat can be added behind the center console, and overhead cover can be added as well.  Additional padding can also be purchased to add over the built-in bench upfront.

A brand new Dusky 227 is very reasonable and can be had for as little as $55,000.00.

Final Thoughts

There are affordable boats with enclosed cabins at all levels.

The key is to decide how much you want to spend and choose a boat that meets both your needs and your budget!

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Sail Turkey: Bodrum to Fethiye (Turkish Gulet)

8 days | explore the southern coast of turkey on a sailing trip.

Set sail for the stunning Turkish Riviera on this eight-day sailing trip from Bodrum to Fethiye. With the perfect combination of sightseeing, hiking, swimming, sunbathing, relaxing and shopping, you’ll be soaking up the sights and sounds in the most famous resort towns in Turkey. Spend your days on the boat, hopping from one beautiful bay to the next, swimming and snorkelling in search of colourful fish and glittering ocean waters. Make stops in Datca, Marmaris, Ekincik and Gocek to see UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient ruins, incredible peninsula views and secluded beaches, perfect for kicking back and toasting to the perfect yacht adventure.

Trip overview

• Sail along the Turkish Riviera on a relaxed trip full of swimming, snorkelling, sunbathing, sightseeing and shopping. What more could you want while you cruise along the sparkling Mediterranean?
• Swim in Cleopatra's Bath – these submerged ruins of an ancient Roman bath are also known as the Sunken Bath, where Cleopatra was said to have frequented with her lover, Marc Antony.
• Swap the Turkish gullet for a riverboat and cruise the delta to see the ancient Rock Tombs of Kaunos, carved into the cliffs 2500 years ago.
• Soak in the rejuvenating mud baths of Kaunos, where the warm, sulfur-rich waters will leave you soft, radiant and relaxed.
• Shop, explore and feast on fresh seafood with your free time in the resort towns of Fethiye, Bodrum, Marmaris, Datca and Gocek.
• This trip is aboard a traditional Turkish gullet (a traditional wooden Turkish motor sailing boat). All cabins will have ensuite bathrooms and you’ll stay in a mixture of twin share and double bed cabins, all on the same deck. It’s recommended that you pack light, as cabins are cosy.
• All cabins will experience a light engine noise when the ship is moving (and occasionally when you drop anchor). It’s probably worth packing earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
• A good swimming ability is essential on this trip to enjoy all activities.
• Many meals are included onboard the boat. Where meals are not included, you’ll have time on land in beachside towns and resort towns for optional meals.
• Some activities and excursions will involve a bit of walking. You’ll be visiting ancient sites and historical places, and at times you may be walking on uneven ground in hot conditions. If you have any concerns, please speak to your local leader.

Hoş geldin! Welcome to Turkey. Your adventure begins in Bodrum – home to white-washed Mediterranean houses, cobblestone streets and high-end shopping that make this city one of Turkey's best retail destinations. If you arrive early, explore the twin bays at your own pace – boasting views of the iconic Bodrum Castle – a medieval fortress that was partly built with stones from the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – there's plenty to do and see here! At 4 pm, you’ll board your beautiful Turkish gullet (a classic wooden yacht from the southwest coast of Turkey). After a welcome meeting to meet your fellow travellers, you’ll have a briefing on what to expect over the next eight days of living on the boat. Then, sail to Black Island. When you arrive, why not jump into the crystal-clear waters for your first swim of the trip. Have dinner as a group and spend your first night aboard, falling asleep to the gentle rocking of the waves.

• Comfortable Turkish Gulet (1 night)
• Black Island - Swim Stop
• Welcome Meeting

Your sailing time today will be approximately 1 hour.

After breakfast on the boat this morning, sail to the Knidos Ancient City and if you like, hop off the boat to explore the impressive ruins that are still undergoing excavation. Climb to the top of the hill for views over the city's two harbors and maybe take a dip in the bay. Then, sail to Palamatbuku – renowned for its turquoise waters perfect for snorkelling. When you arrive, jump in the bay’s crystal-clear waters in search of marine life and colourful fish. After swimming, head on to Datca. Here, a shuttle is available to the main town, where you can choose to spend your afternoon exploring the Old Town, scattered ancient temples, local cafes and some of the various historic sites.

• Datca - Free Time In The Town
• Palamutbuku - Snorkeling & Swim Stop

Your sailing time today will be approximately 3 hours.

This morning you’ll set sail for Kadirga’s secluded beachfront. When you arrive, recharge with a refreshing swim, relax in the sun and have some lunch. Then, you’ll continue to Bozukkale, where you’ll spend the night. Have dinner on board the boat, chilling out under the stars.

• Kadirga - Beach Stop

Today, cruise to Kumlubuku Bay – home to the ruins of the ancient city of Amos. When you arrive, you’ll hike to the historical site, exploring the ruins of the Acropolis, Amphitheater, temple and an altar dedicated to Dionysus. From the hill, soak in views across the bay, then make your way back to the water for some snorkelling and swimming. Your next destination is Paradise Island, covered in pine forests and the perfect spot for a dip in the sea. Refuel with some afternoon tea, then carry on to the vibrant city of Marmaris. Sitting along the Turkish Riviera, this city has evolved into a hotspot for travellers. You’ll have a free evening here, so you can explore the town’s winding narrow streets, shops, cafes and restaurants. Maybe grab a few of your fellow travellers and explore the nightlife, as Marmaris is also home to many clubs and bars.

• Kumlubuk Bay - Snorkeling and Swimming
• Kumlubuk Bay - Ancient city of Amos
• Marmaris - Free Time In The Town
• Paradise Island - Swim Stop

Your sailing time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

Sail towards Ekincik this morning – naturally beautiful, this village boasts a 2 km stretch of gravel beach surrounded by local wildlife. When you arrive, head out for a swim and a spot of snorkelling. Later, if you like, you can opt for an excursion to Dalyan – this small village sits within pine-covered hills, cotton fields and unspoiled coastline. Take a piyade (a small riverboat) to Turtle Beach, soaking in the natural beauty of the delta along the way. Stop for a swim at the beach – this is where the endangered Loggerhead Turtles lay their eggs during nesting season (May to October)! After a dip in the ocean, make your way to the ancient city of Kaunos – this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to ancient Rock Tombs, which were carved into the cliffs 2500 years ago. End the day at the nearby mud baths, where the warm, sulfur-rich water will work wonders on your skin, leaving you soft and rejuvenated. Later, have dinner on board.

• Ekincik - Beach and Swim Stop

Have breakfast on the board this morning as you cruise to Cleopatra's Bath (also known as Sunken Bath, due to the submerged remains). Your leader will share the stories that surround this place, where Cleopatra was said to have spent time with Marc Antony. Stop for a swim, then set sail to Bedri Rahmi Bay – this place pays homage to Bedri Rahmi Eyuboglu, an esteemed Turkish master of literature and art. During a summer cruise in 1973, Bedri Rahmi left his mark by drawing a fish on a rock at the bay's entrance and the iconic Fish Rock still welcomes passengers to the bay today. Swim around the clear waters of the Tersane Islands (also known as the Shipyard Islands) among colourful fish, then head on to Gocek. Disembark and maybe go in search of some delicious traditional cuisine for dinner – your leader will always have the best recommendations!

• Tershane Islands - Swim Stop
• Gocek - Free Time In The Town
• Gocek Bay - Cleopatra's Bath Swim Stop
• Bedri Rahmi Bay - Swim Stop

Your sailing time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Say goodbye to Gocek this morning and cruise to Tarzan Bay, popular for its crystal-clear waters. Swim in the turquoise haven when you arrive, then carry on to Fethiye – your final destination. When you dock, maybe wander through the lively bazaars or relax along the coast. Have a final dinner aboard the boat as the sunsets and toast to an amazing adventure, then why not keep the night going in town and find a few local bars to raise a glass in.

• Tarzan Bay - Swim Stop

Your sailing time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

After breakfast on the boat, your adventure along the southern coast of Turkey comes to an end. You might like to stay in Fethiye for an extra couple of days and explore anything you didn’t get a chance to yesterday. You could also continue your journey to one of the nearby Greek Islands, like Kos, and bliss out on the beaches. If you need to organise additional accommodation, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 4 dinners

Comfortable Turkish Gulet

Comfortable Turkish Gulet (7 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

This trip will be onboard a traditional Turkish Gulet.

Trip starts at 4pm on day one and finishes after breakfast on day 8

PASSPORT DETAILS Please provide your passport details at time of booking. It is essential we receive these details at least 14 days prior to departure as we must provide them to the Port authorities in order to comply with Maritime regulations.

SINGLE TRAVELLERS Single travellers will share a twin cabin with another traveller of the same gender. If you’d prefer not to share, a single cabin supplement is available at an additional charge. A single passenger cannot be booked or confirmed in a double cabin (with a double bed) unless a single supplement is paid.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Check back later or explore reviews for similar trips.

6 Most Affordable Liveaboard Sailboats

Liveaboard sailboats in clean and operational condition cost anywhere between $10,000 and $30,000, but some excellent vessels cost less.

Finding an affordable sailboat can greatly reduce the overall cost of living the liveaboard lifestyle. Some sailboats that have full-time living accommodations can be found for less than $20,000, making them highly affordable compared to many alternatives.

Table of contents

What Constitutes a Liveaboard Sailboat?

Everybody's definition of a liveable sailboat varies, but there are a few benchmarks we can use to determine if a boat is suitable to become a full-time residence.

Choosing the right liveaboard sailboat starts with deciding what you need to be comfortable. Everything is a tradeoff onboard a sailboat, but carefully-designed cabins and facilities can help improve your quality of life. Here are a few things to look for when choosing the best affordable liveaboard sailboat.

Overall Size

Size is one of the most important factors when considering a sailboat to live on . Small boats that are less than 20 feet in length are almost always too small for comfortable and clean living. The ideal liveaboard sailboat is usually between 25 and 35 feet in length.

That said, sailboat length isn't the only factor that determines liveability. Some sailboats share the same length but have vastly different accommodations. For example, the Cal 20 has barely any usable cabin space, while the Flicka 20 is suitable for long voyages.

Headroom is key for comfortable living on a sailboat and should be considered separately from the overall length. Most sailboats over 27 feet in length have at least six feet of headroom, which is considered "standing headroom" by most people in the industry.

Some vessels may have standing headroom in parts of the cabin, but not all of it. In these situations, you may find a cabin roof bulge over the galley (where standing is necessary), but these vessels often drop the ceiling a few inches over the sitting areas of the cabin and the V-berths.

What kind of galley does your ideal sailboat have? Cooking is an essential part of daily life, and some sailboats have more than enough cooking and cleaning equipment on board.

Before choosing a sailboat, decide how much galley equipment (and what kind) that you'll need. A stove and a sink are essential, but an icebox, oven, and a refrigerator are certainly nice to have.

The head is the sailboat's bathroom. Many boats come equipped with a porta-potty or similar temporary facilities, but the best affordable liveaboard sailboats have a permanent toilet and showering facilities.

Often, liveaboard sailboats have a shower/sink combo, where the faucet transforms into a shower. Holding tanks for the fresh, gray, and black water are larger on bigger boats, so consider your access to pumping facilities before deciding on a sailboat.

How easy is it to hook your boat up to power and water? Modern connections are essential for convenience on a liveaboard sailboat . If you're looking in the low price range, it's important to inspect the condition of the vessel's systems—especially its electrical wiring.

Check the wiring and make sure all (or most) of the outlets, lights, and pumps are operational. Several broken electrical parts and dead switches could be a sign that the boat's wiring is damaged, which is hazardous and highly inconvenient.

Boat wiring is a nightmare, so it's best to find one with operational electrical systems that haven't been heavily tampered with or damaged. Look for and avoid boats with unusually cluttered wiring, exposed copper, and signs of cut-rate repairs.

Best Affordable Sailboats for Living Aboard

What makes a sailboat affordable? Cost is more than just the price you purchase it for—maintenance and spare parts also play a part. We put together this list of the most affordable liveaboard sailboats based on both the initial purchase price and cost of maintenance.

Catalina 25

The Catalina 25 is an excellent entry-level liveaboard sailboat with just enough space and accommodations to keep a single person comfortable. The overall length of the Catalina 25 is less than 30 feet, which minimizes slip fees and reduces ownership cost.

Catalina 25 sailboats were produced in 1978 and 1994, and 5,866 examples of the class were produced. In sailboat terms, that's a pretty big number—which means they're plentiful on the used market.

The Catalina 25 is about as small as it's practical to go when choosing a liveaboard sailboat . The cabin is spacious for its size, with the greatest downside being the keel trunk in the center of the cabin. However, Catalina made good use of the trunk by installing a hinged dining table on the side.

The cabin features a galley with a stove, sink, and an icebox for refrigeration. Floor plans vary, but the majority of used Catalina 25s features a head with a shower, a front V-berth, and a dinette with sofas along each side.

The Catalina 25 is an affordable used sailboat and tons of fun to sail. It's suitable for single-handed sailing, making it a great introductory liveaboard sailboat for single people or couples.

Used Catalina 25 sailboats can be found for between $4,000 and $8,000, making it one of the most affordable liveaboards out there today. With Catalina's build quality and good maintenance, a fiberglass Catalina 25 can last for decades.

Catalina 30

No liveaboard sailboat list is complete without the Catalina 30. This sailboat is one of the most popular 30-foot sailboats ever built, and it features an exceptional interior layout that's perfect for living aboard.

When it comes to size, 30 feet is just about perfect for a single person or a couple living aboard a boat. The original Catalina 30 design was produced between 1972 and 2008, and the company sold around 6,430 vessels during that time.

Down below, the Catalina 30 features a spacious cabin with standing headroom throughout. A full galley is complemented by plenty of overhead and cabinet storage, so owners can safely pack more than just the essentials.

The head is larger than most boats in this size range, and a functional shower is installed on the vast majority of examples from the 1970s onward. The vessel has large storage tanks, which means owners don't need to pump out the black and gray water often.

The Catalina 30 features a full dinette, chart table, and plenty of additional sleeping and berthing locations. A V-berth up front features storage below and along the sides of the hull, leaving lots of room for books, paperwork, personal items, and anything else necessary for living aboard.

The Catalina 30 is easy to find on the used market, and a liveable example can be had for as little as $5,000, but the average price is around $8,000 to $15,000. Parts are easy to find, and there's a wealth of knowledge on the sailing forums about how to maintain, repair, and sail this popular fiberglass vessel.

The Cal 28 is an old but comfortable liveaboard sailboat that's both affordable and readily available. The Cal 28 was designed in 1963 and produced until 1969. Variants of the design were produced well into the 1980s, making it relatively easy to find on the used market.

The Cal 28 is a fast and stout sailboat on the water and spacious down below. It features a thoughtfully-designed galley ahead and several well-proportioned sleeping areas.

Some people regard older fiberglass sailboats like the Cal 28 as better and stronger than their newer counterparts. This is because, back in the 1950s and 1960s, boatbuilders didn't really know how much fiberglass was necessary to build a strong boat. So instead of using "just enough," they'd often make structural components of the vessel way thicker and stronger than they had to be.

The Cal 28 measures 28 feet overall and 22.5 feet at the waterline, making it inexpensive to dock and relatively easy to haul out for maintenance. The vessel features an aluminum mast and boom, which is easy and inexpensive to maintain over the long term.

Cal 28 sailboats have 2,200 lbs of ballast and a long fin keel, making them suitable for living (no centerboard trunk) and offshore sailing (well-balanced hull design). It's also a fast boat, making it an excellent choice for destination cruising.

The Cal 28 itself is highly affordable. The going rate for a Cal 28 in clean, usable condition is between $5,000 and $15,000, especially in areas where sailing was common in the 1960s and 1970s, such as San Diego.

Here's another fun and safe cruising sloop with plenty of room for living aboard. The Aloha 28 is an affordable and comfortable 28-foot fiberglass sailboat with excellent offshore handling capabilities and a sleek design.

The interior layout of the Aloha 28 is similar to the Catalina 30. Aft, there's a well-designed L-shaped galley with a stove, a sink, and an icebox. Some models came with a gimbal-mounted oven and stove combo, which is great for cooking complex meals aboard.

The center of the cabin features two large sofa-style seats that convert into berths and a swing-out table for eating, chart reading, and other activities. There's plenty of storage space along with the seats, around the galley, and below the cushions.

Towards the bow, there's a full head with a toilet, sink, and shower. The shower pan is on the floor, which makes the head a compact but suitable place to clean yourself up.

A 'master cabin' style V-berth upfront offers great privacy, though most models don't have a physical door separating the forward berth compartment from the rest of the cabin. Instead, a curtain is often present.

The Aloha 28 is under 30 feet in length, making it relatively inexpensive to dock at most liveaboard-friendly marinas. You can find this affordable liveaboard sailboat for a fraction of the cost of a new boat, as most models sell for around $10,000 to $15,000 in clean and usable condition.

Catalina 34

It should come as no surprise that the next affordable liveaboard sailboat on our list is the Catalina 34. Almost 1,500 of these fiberglass vessels were produced after its introduction in 1985, making it a popular choice for liveaboards.

The Catalina 34 is a spacious and heavy sailboat. It weighs nearly six tons, and it's 34.5 feet long overall. With a beam of 11.75 feet, the Catalina 34 is also large enough for a couple to live comfortably with a pet or two as well.

The Catalina 34 has a 7.32-knot hull speed, making it remarkably fast for a boat of its size. That means, should you decide to move your floating home, you can get to and from your destination quickly and efficiently in less-than-excellent weather conditions.

Several variants of the Catalina 34 were produced over the years, but the most common design featured a head aft, a large starboard L-shaped galley, and an enclosed master cabin upfront.

The interior accommodations of the Catalina 34 make it an ideal liveaboard sailboat , as the cabin is extremely spacious and easy to move around. The dining table features U-shaped seating, which easily converts into a large berth.

The head is large and includes a separate nook for showering. This is especially useful if you're uncomfortable showering so close to your sink and toilet. The V-berth upfront is in an enclosed cabin with a locking door and storage all around, along with a space between the door and the berth for standing and moving around.

Used Catalina 34 sailboats are pricier than smaller Catalina 30s, but they're still highly affordable given what they offer. Catalina 34 sailboats in serviceable condition run anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000 or higher, but a nice model can be found for less than $20,000 in most areas.

Tartan 34 C

The Tartan 34 C is less common than most of the boats on this list. Nonetheless, it's worth a look if you're lucky enough to find one. This 11,200-lb sailboat measures 34.42 feet in length and 10 feet in width. It's a hardy-sailing sloop, but where it really shines is down below in the cabin.

The interior layout of the Tartan 34 C varies slightly, but it has spacious accommodations for two or more people. The L-shaped galley sits in the aft part of the cabin and features a large icebox, stove, and sink. The vessel has a large table in the center, which is surrounded on both sides by roomy sofas.

There's an enormous amount of storage space aboard the Tartan 34 C, especially around the settees and berths. Storage is key for a liveaboard sailboat , as you'll need well-designed spaces to store your belongings and keep them organized. On the Tartan 24, you won't have to store all of your stuff in secluded hard-to-reach cubbies.

The Tartan 34 features a fully-enclosed head between the dining area and the V-berth. The head features everything you'd need, including a shower, sink, and toilet, along with adequate space to move around.

The forward V-berth is also fully enclosed and separated from the head and the aft part of the cabin by a wooden door. The "master cabin" layout of the Tartan 24 is a favorite amongst liveaboards, as it offers superior privacy when hosting guests.

The design of the Tartan 34 itself is unique, as most vessels in the 30-plus-foot category don't feature a swing keel. The swing keel reduces the draft of the Tartan 34 in the harbor but increases its stability and windward sailing abilities when underway.

With a reduced draft, the Tartan 34 is ideal for shallower marinas that normally couldn't cater to a vessel of this size. On the used market, the Tartan 34 can be found for between $18,000 and $50,000, depending on a few factors. For the price, you get an affordable floating home and a highly capable cruising sailboat .

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Daniel Wade

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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• Vladikavkaz

Vladikavkaz, Russia

Tours, Attractions and Things To Do in Vladikavkaz

Vladikavkaz travel guide.

• 2. Architecture
• 3. Museums and Theaters
• 4. Outdoor Attractions
• 5. Souvenirs

Hospitable and sunny Vladikavkaz, the capital of Russia’s Republic of North Ossetia-Alania, captures the heart with its colorful mountain landscapes, historic architecture, kind residents and vibrant local culture.

The city is located on the banks of the Terek River and is almost completely surrounded by mountains which, along with unique Northern Caucasian architecture, make this urban landscape rather irresistible. Upon arrival, luxurious mansions, unusual architecture, parks, museums, theaters, retro trams and cozy eateries serving famous Ossetian meat pies all clamber for visitors’ attention, often pulling them back for further visits.

As the largest city in Russia’s southern Caucasus, Vladikavkaz is the start and ending point for many regional tourist routes, so after enjoying the city sites be sure to continue onward to the surrounding natural attractions .

History of Vladikavkaz

Vladikavkaz Fortress was built in 1784 to provide protection for the Russian Empire along its southern border with Georgia. The name Vladikavkaz means “I own the Caucasus” and was chosen by Catherine the Great after the Russian Empire extended its power into the region. The fort served a vital protective role for many years even as wealthy merchants and retirees began investing in the region’s development, and in 1860 Vladikavkaz attained the status of city. Later in the 19th century, newly laid rail lines in the region led to an economic boom and to an influx of ethnic minorities whose diverse houses of worship and unique architecture can still be seen in the city today.

Vladikavkaz was awarded the title of City of Military Glory after successfully fighting off invading Nazis in World War II. Today it remains an ethnically diverse city with hundreds of Art Noveau and historic buildings. Although no longer a military outpost, Vladikavkaz remains a soulful city with a rich cultural life . Read more...

Vladikavkaz Architecture

The city of Vladikavkaz is famous for its architecture, and for good reason. The city grew rapidly between the second half of the 19th century and the early 20th century due to the influx of high-ranking retired military personnel who built mansions and summer houses with their hefty pensions. It is believed that the presence of around 75 such individuals led to Vladikavkaz’s historic nickname "City of retired generals".

Today the historic city center is a chain of cozy avenues lined with many of these elegant mansions.

Prospekt Mira

Prospekt Mira (Mira Avenue) in Vladikavkaz is a kilometer-long boulevard which serves as the main pedestrian thoroughfare for the historic city center. It promises a pleasant walk amid slender two- and three-story merchants’ mansions, inviting coffee shops and other convenient photo opps.

Mukhtarov Mosque

Mukhtarov Mosque , also called Sunni Mosque, is an unmistakable landmark of Vladikavkaz. This delicately carved structure appears to have been lifted from the pages of a fairy tale and is often likened to Cairo mosques of the 10th-12th centuries. Built in the early 20th century, it remains an active mosque to this day.

Imperial Hotel

The main hotel in Vladikavkaz, Imperial Hotel on Mira Avenue has long been a city symbol. The fashionable accommodation was built in 1896, and although there were already 16 hotels in Vladikavkaz at the time, it quickly rose to prominence as the hotel of choice for the city’s most honored guests.

Other famous buildings in central Vladikavkaz include:

• Oganov Mansion (12 Mira Avenue)
• Mansion of the Lawyer Boehme (Pavlovsky Lane)
• Yastremsky Mansion (33 Sovetov Street)
• Khudyakovs’ Mansion (11 Mira Avenue)
• English Consulate Building (31 Lenin Street)

As you walk through the center of Vladikavkaz, you cannot miss these unique Northern Caucasian structures which preserve the memory of a bygone era .

Museums and Theaters

Many travelers who come to North Ossetia either visit Vladikavkaz in transit or skip it altogether in their rush to reach the Caucasus Mountains. However, it is here that life can be experienced in full swing and many options for leisurely activities can be found. Museums, theaters, cinemas, concert halls, parks and family entertainment venue all await you in Vladikavkaz.

At Opera and Ballet Theater , one of the largest musical theaters in the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania, you can enjoy quality opera and ballet performances by professional dancers, singers and musicians.

Vakhtangov Theater is another large public theater that offers performances for both adult audiences and young viewers. The theater opened in 1871 to host performances produced by outstanding Russian playwrights, including an early performance of "Masquerade" by Mikhail Lermontov. Mikhail Bulgakov staged his earliest plays at Vakhtangov Theater, which regularly hosts renowned Russian actors and theatrical figures to this day.

Narty Horse Theater offers highly unusual performances which combine elements of choreography and circus art subtly interwoven with a dramatic plot. This performance will definitely appeal to family members of all ages!

At the North Ossetian Philharmonic , exemplary performances by an all-male choir are held regularly.

National Museum of the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania is a museum, research center and exhibition complex with several branches, the main one of which is located in the city center at 11 Mira Avenue. Come get acquainted with a variety of historical findings which date back centuries. In total, the museum complex houses more than 4,000 exhibits which shed light on the history of the region and the peculiarities of the local culture.

M. S. Tuganov Art Museum , located at 12 Mira Avenue next to National Museum of the Republic, has amassed a large collection of works of fine art, including pieces by Levitan, Aivazovsky, Repin, Bryullov, Vereshchagin, Shishkin, Korovin and other acclaimed artists.

21st-Century Entertainment

As in any other major city in Russia, Vladikavkaz is home to a whole host of modern entertainment venues, including quests, laser clubs, time cafes and more .

Outdoor Vladikavkaz Attractions

While there are plenty of manmade attractions to see in Vladikavkaz, outdoor adventures also await travelers, both beyond city limits and even before you depart the mountain metropolis.

Table Mountain

Table Mountain , which at 3000 meters is the highest ridge in the Caucasus, rises above Vladikavkaz as an unmistakable feature of its natural landscape. Table Mountain is depicted on the coat of arms of both the Republic of Ingushetia and Vladikavkaz, for it is located on the border between the two entities. Due in part to the 4th-8th century ruins located on Table Mountain, North Caucasus residents have long viewed it as symbolic of Olympus.

Kosta Khetagurov Park

Kosta Khetagurov Park , the oldest park in the entire North Caucasus, consists of upper and lower terraces along the Terek River, shady pathways which provide welcome relief in the summer heat and a calming lake populated with swans. Cafes, boat rides and other entertainment options combine to create a fun and restful atmosphere .

Vladikavkaz Souvenirs

Like the rest of the Caucasus, the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania offers guests an exquisite array of gifts so you can carry the memory of a Vladikavkaz vacation home with you.

Among the most popular gifts are wine vessels in the shape of a horn, which often include an engraving on a metal border and may be either decorative or unpainted. Dishes, coasters, potholders, fragrant spices and delicious local pies are also popular souvenir choices from Vladikavkaz.

Specialty gifts for men include leather belts, wallets and decorative metal plates, all of which are made with embossed patterns, ornamentation or symbols of the republic such as horfreses, leopards, deer or double-headed eagles.

Women can be presented with openwork earrings, bracelets, pendants, combs and hair clips made of wood, as well as textiles or wool shawls in colorful oriental patterns. Ceramic products suitable for everyday use include coffee cups, small teapots, serving bowls and elegant jugs adorned with national motifs.

National costumes for both genders reflect the vibrancy of the North Caucasian culture of Vladikavkaz and can make an excellent souvenir for relatives and friends.

Attractions

Miscellaneous.