cost of 45 foot sailboat

Average Cost of Buying & Owning a Sailboat (2022)

Here are the 2022 data for our research on the average cost of buying and owning a sailboat.

Examples of Popular Sailboats, and How Much They Cost

What does it cost to buy a sailboat.

The average price of a new sailboat per foot in USD:

• under 30 ft: $2,400 per ft
• 30 - 50 ft: $5,700 - $8,500 per ft
• over 50 ft: $11,900 - $65,400 per ft

On average, second-hand sailboats go at 1/3 - 1/4 of the cost of a new boat:

• under 30 ft: $815 per ft
• 30 - 50 ft: $3,020 per ft
• over 50 ft: $5,100 - $17,000 per ft

Price of new sailboats

I've looked at the prices of thousands of yachts (really) on one of the largest yacht marketplaces in the world (- not manually, don't worry: with the help of their search function). This is what I came up with:

Source: Yachtworld Q2 2022

The price of new sailboats ranges from roughly $1,412 - $65,433 per foot. I've used these numbers to calculate the following list:

Prices per foot in USD

Here's the detailed price per foot for all lengths from 20 to 100 feet:

Price of used sailboats

We did the same for used catamarans, comparing thousands of listings. Here are the complete data:

The price of used sailboats ranges from roughly $471-$17,044 per foot.

Prices on Craigslist

To get an average of the price of a used sailboat, I went over to Craigslist. I took the first 10 relevant search results for sailboats under, and over 30 feet.

Of course, the averages here are very speculative, as prices vary from day to day. But it gives a broad range of what to expect.

Over 50 feet, listings become meagre. I believe people tend to not place their 80-ft sailboats on Craigslist, but sell it through a broker instead.

Median Craigslist price of a used sailboat:

• under 30 ft: $7,900
• over 30 ft: $96,900

Average Craigslist price-per-foot of a used sailboat:

• under 30 ft: $354 per ft
• over 30 ft: $1,845 per ft

This is what I found on Craigslist under 30 feet:

Washington dc.

Source: Craigslist Washington DC Q2 2022

Los Angeles

Source: Craigslist Los Angeles Q2 2022

Source: Craigslist Houston Q2 2022

South Florida

Source: Craigslist Miami Q2 2022

Source: Craigslist New York Q2 2022

Here's what I found for 30 feet and up:

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How Much Do Sailboats Cost 2024? The Average Prices

The cost of a sailboat can vary greatly depending on a number of features, so it’s hard to give a definitive answer without knowing requirements.

Although it’s common to think sailing’s for the rich , that isn’t always the case. In fact, you can pick up project boats for as little as $1! This is unusual though, so what can you expect to pay?

To give a rough idea, a small, basic sailboat can start at around $10,000, while high-end, luxury boats can easily exceed $1 million.

Additionally, the cost of owning and maintaining a sailboat should also be considered. This can include expenses for docking fees, insurance, repairs and upgrades, and essential sailing gear and equipment.

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When we bought our sailboat four years ago we had no idea if we would like living aboard or how long we would want to cruise for. We knew we wanted a boat under 40ft so we could manage it as a crew of two (or even one if needs be), but bigger than 35ft so we had enough room to live comfortably.

Because we had a very small budget we knew we wouldn’t be able to afford a sailboat that was fully fitted out and ready to go, so we had to factor in upgrades and maintenance that we would complete ourselves as and when we could afford to.

We bought our 38ft sailboat for under £30,000, which was one of the cheapest sailboats that was ‘ready to sail’ in the size and age range at the time. Just like houses, sailboats go and up and down in price based on demand, and in today’s market it is much harder to find a boat like this in that price range.

So now that you have a bit of context, let’s dive into the factors that affect the cost of a sailboat and some average prices below.

‍W hat Factors Affect The Cost Of A Sailboat?

Before buying a sailboat you will want to consider many different factors, such as what you want your sailboat for, where you intend to sail it and how many crew you are likely to have onboard.

You will want to look at the existing equipment onboard and make a list of extras you will need to fit in order to make it meet your requirements. These extra costs can quickly add up! You should also factor in any maintenance that needs to be done before you start sailing.

Let’s take a look at some of the main factors that impact the price of a sailboat.

New or Used

This is an obvious one. Used sailboats are a lot cheaper than brand new versions. Sailboats are similar to cars and lose their value over time, no matter how much work you put into them. The most common opinion is that new sailboats lose their value on a bell curve, and you will make the most of your investment if you sell a new boat within four years.

Buying a much older boat is cheaper initially, but may cost you ten fold in maintenance and upgrades if it hasn’t been looked after well by the previous owner. You should always use a well regarded surveyor before buying a sailboat to make sure you are paying a fair price.

Larger sailboats typically cost more than smaller ones. You can buy a small used sailing dinghy for around £1000, which will be suitable for hobby sailing for a few hours on lakes or close to shore in calm weather. This is a great option if you’re keen to learn to sail on a small budget.

Here are a few price comparisons on new boats of different sizes.

Average Prices Of 22ft yachts

• Catalina 22 Sport:  $27,000 + VAT
• Marlow Hunter 22:  $30,000 + VAT
• Marblehead 22:  $84,000 + VAT

Average prices of 40ft – 45ft yachts

• Lagoon 40:  $400,000 + VAT
• Hanse 418:  $200,000 + VAT
• Ovni 445:  $600,000 + VAT

Monohull or Multihull

With two engines, two hulls and a lot more space multihulls fetch a premium. In recent years they have become more popular than ever, and therefore they are a lot more expensive both new and used than monohulls. They are also more expensive to upkeep and more expensive to run.

Well-known, high-end brands often come with a higher price tag. As you can see from the chart above, even sailboats of the same or very similar size can vary hugely in price. This is partly down to the reputation of the brand and boat manufacturer. If the boat has the reputation of being of excellent build quality then it will undoubtedly demand a higher price tag!

Additional amenities and technology can increase the cost. If you’re buying a new boat then it will likely come with all the essentials like depth souder and wind gauge (or this may be something you will need to add on as an extra). Used boats will come with whatever they come with, which may mean outdated or broken equipment, or none at all.

When we bought our used boat we drew up a spreadsheet of all the equipment we considered essential and we added missing equipment onto the cost of the sailboat, so that we knew how much extra we would have to spend after purchase.

Some things, like our sailboat watermaker , might not be essential to others but have changed our lives aboard.

Even things like our lithium marine batteries would now be on our ‘essentials’ list, as they are so power and cost effective compared to the alternatives.

⚡ We use BattleBorn batteries and recommend them highly. You can check them out here. ⚡

A used sailboat may be less expensive, but will almost certainly require more maintenance and upkeep. You can tackle a lot of boat maintenance yourself with the help of YouTube sailing channels and a decent sailboat toolkit , and this will keep costs down considerably.

‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍Overall, it is important to carefully consider all factors and do thorough research before making a purchase decision for a sailboat

The Average Cost Of A New Cruising Sailboat

We’ve classed a cruising boat as one you could live on comfortably as a couple, so ranging from around 38ft to 50ft.

On average, a new cruising sailboat can cost anywhere from $100,000 to over $1 million . Some popular brands, such as Beneteau and Jeanneau, offer models in the $200,000 to $400,000 range.

Luxury cruising sailboats from well-known brands like Hanse or any catamarans can easily exceed $500,000.

Of course, the cost will also depend on the size and features of the boat. A smaller, basic cruising sailboat may be closer to $100,000 while larger boats with more amenities can easily surpass the million-dollar mark.

Keep in mind that these prices do not include additional expenses for maintenance and upkeep.‍‍

Here are some examples:

• Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 : $300,000 + VAT
• Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 410 : $400,000
• Amel 50:  $1,100,000 + VAT
• Hallberg Rassy 57:  £1,400,000  VAT

Used Cruising Sailboat Prices

The cost of a used cruising sailboat will depend on factors such as age, condition, and previous ownership.

A well-maintained, newer model used sailing boat can range from $50,000 to over $200,000. Older boats or those in need of repairs may be less expensive, but require more investment in upkeep and maintenance. You could pick up a used 38ft sailboat for around $40,000, though it will likely need some attention before it is ready to sail.

It is important to thoroughly inspect a used sailboat before purchasing and factor in potential repair costs. As with buying a new boat, the cost of owning and maintaining a used sailboat should also be considered. ‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍

Overall, the price of a used cruising sailboat can vary greatly and it is hard to give an average price, but expect to pay around $50,000 to $100,000 and then extra for maintenance.

• Tayana 37:  $30,000-90,000
• Moody 44:  €60,000-100,000
• Lagoon 380:  $150,000-350,000
• Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 42:  $130,000-200,000
• Ovni 445:  $300,000-500,000
• Hans Christian 48:  $120,000-180,000

How Much Does A Small Sailboat Cost?

Small sailboats, also known as dinghies or day sailors, can range from around $10,000 to $50,000. This cost will depend on factors such as size, brand, and features.

Used small sailboats may be less expensive, but it is important to carefully consider the condition and potential repairs that may be needed. A well-maintained, newer model used dinghy or day sailor can range from $5,000 to $20,000. Again, small catamarans tend to be more expensive than monohulls.

In addition to the initial purchase cost, owning a small sailboat also includes expenses for storage, maintenance, and necessary gear and equipment.

• Hobie 16:  $11,000 + VAT
• Catalina 22 Sport:  $28,000 + VAT
• Catalina 22:  $3,000-22,000
• Cape Dory 25:  $2,000-10,000
• Catalina 27:  $4,000-15,000
• Bristol 27:  $3,000-10,000

How Do People Finance Sailboats?

Sailboats can be a major financial investment, and many people choose to finance their purchase through a loan from a bank or other lending institution. It is important to carefully consider the terms of the loan and make sure that monthly payments fit into one’s budget.

Some boat dealers may offer financing options or payment plans. However, it is important to thoroughly research these options and compare them with outside lenders before making a decision.

In some cases, people may also use savings or sell assets in order to pay for a sailboat.

In addition to the initial cost of purchasing a sailboat, it is important to also factor in expenses for maintenance, storage, insurance, and necessary gear and equipment. Owning a sailboat can be a rewarding experience, but it is important to carefully plan for all associated costs before making a financial commitment. ‍‍‍‍‍‍

You can find out the cost of owning a sailboat before you decide to buy, and don’t forget it is possible to make money living on a sailboat to keep the kitty topped up. ‍‍

Overall, the cost of owning a sailboat varies greatly and depends on personal preferences and budget. It is important to thoroughly research all financing options and consider the ongoing expenses before committing to a purchase.

How Much Does It Cost To Build A Sailboat?

The cost of building a sailboat can vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of the boat. Hiring a professional to build a custom sailboat can range from $50,000 to over $200,000.

Alternatively, some people may choose to build their own sailboat with materials and tools. This option can be less expensive, but also requires considerable time and effort. The cost of building a sailboat oneself will also depend on the materials used and any necessary equipment or hired help.

Overall, the cost of building a sailboat is quite personal based on budget, sailing needs, and willingness to DIY or hire professionals. Remember that if you choose to build the boat yourself you will need a covered space big enough to do so, and a way to transport it to water when you’re finished. All these costs can add up considerably!

Where Is The Cheapest Place To Buy A Sailboat?

Prices can vary by region and market demand. When we were first looking for a sailboat we realised they were a lot cheaper in the US. The only problem with buying there was that we wouldn’t have been able to get a visa long enough to give us time to work on the boat before leaving the country.

Another top tip is to look for sailboats in places that are ‘jump off points’. For example, many people will cross the Atlantic and sell after achieving their dream of crossing an ocean, or reach the beginning of a daunting ocean crossing like Panama to cross the Pacific, and realise it’s something they don’t have an appetite for. There are also cheaper boats in more remote, harder to get to places.

Some people may choose to purchase their sailboat in a different country or region in order to find a lower price, but it is important to factor in any necessary transportation and import fees.

Keep an eye on prices of boats around the world to get a good idea of where you can snap up the best bargain.

Conclusion: How Much Do Sailboats Cost?

All in all, the cost of a sailboat can vary greatly depending on factors such as size, age, and whether it is purchased or built. It is important to thoroughly consider all financing options and ongoing expenses before making a commitment to purchase or build a sailboat.

Find out how much new sails cost as an example of something you might have to budget for when purchasing a new sailboat.

Ultimately, owning a sailboat can be a rewarding experience but careful planning is necessary for successful budgeting and enjoyment. ‍‍‍‍‍‍If you’re looking for more sailing or liveaboard tips then follow us on social media to stay up to date with our latest articles.

Happy sailing!

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The Oceanis 45 is no exception in keeping with Beneteau tradition. Years of innovation and precise attention to detail leave a distinguished performance in her wake. 

NAVAL DESIGNER  : FINOT - CONQ ET ASSOCIÉS

INTERIOR DESIGNER  : Nauta Design

Exterior design

Built to combine safety, luxury and performance, the Oceanis 45’s distinctive hard chine promotes stability and increases interior space. Boasting a large cockpit with dual helms, open deck plan, roomy seating and a transom that doubles as a swim platform, this yacht corners the market in function and comfort. 

Interior design

Intelligent use of space allows a range of options below deck, including two heads with a choice of two, three, or four cabins. The skilfully designed interior, in either contemporary light oak or traditional mahogany, is bright and maximizes storage space.

Confidently answering the call of the ocean

The Oceanis 45’s many innovations simplify life on board as much as they do sailing. The ocean beckons.

Safe and very convivial, the enormous cockpit is equipped with a table that can contain a refrigerated icebox. It also features a tactile multi-function screen and outdoor lighting.

45° companionway

An important characteristic of the latest generation of large Oceanis yachts, the 45° companionway connects the sizable cockpit with the boat’s spacious interior, contributing considerably to the ease of movement and lifestyle onboard.

Performance Pack

To optimize performance, a set of Performance Sails, combined with the German System that produced the ability to trim all the sails from the helm is a desired option.

Virtual tour

Characteristics.

Length Overall

Beam overall

Light displacement

Air Draft Max

Fuel Capacity

Water Capacity

Max. engine power

CE Certification

A10/B11/C12

• CE certification A10/B11/C12
• B&G Electronic Pack
• Twin steering station
• Sail drive engine
• 9 flush deck hatches, 2 long plexiglass on roof and 2 companionway plexiglass, 6 hull portholes, door and companionway hatch glazed
• Drop-down transom, opening completely, converting into a swim platform (9'4" x 2'6"). Electrically-controlled opening. Natural solid wood decking on swim platform. Removable stainless steel swim ladder doubles up as an entry ladder

• Spacious master cabin with ensuite head, separate shower. Aft cabin with double bed (6'9" x 4'11" x 3'9") and storage on either side of the bed
• L-shaped galley: compact laminated worktop, double stainless steel sink
• Two heads with toilet and separate shower
• Comfortable gently sloping 45° companionway
• Sliding chart table (against forward bulkhead or between the 2 seats or against galley) and mobile seats (on one side or on either side of the chart table).
• 9 flush deck hatches, 2 plexiglass on roof and 2 companionway plexiglass, 6 hull portholes, door and companionway hatch glazed

• Spacious master cabin with ensuite head, separate shower. Aft cabins with double beds (6'9" x 4'11" x 3'9") and storage on either side of the bed
• Large lengthwise fitted galley: compact laminated worktop, double stainless steel sink

• Two fore cabins for two with hanging locker, aft cabins with storage on either side of the bed
• Two heads with toilet

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Other models in the range

9.66 m / 31’8’’

3.39 m / 11’1’’

10.34 m / 33’11’’

3.65 m / 12’

Oceanis 38.1

11.8 m / 38’9’’

3.99 m / 13’1’’

Oceanis 35.1

12.43 m / 40’9’’

4.2 m / 13’9’’

13.1 m / 42’12’’

4.12 m / 13’6’’

11.48 m / 37’8’’

3.92 m / 12’10’’

14.4 m / 47’3’’

4.25 m / 13’11’’

11.15 m / 36’7’’

14.6 m / 47’11’’

4.74 m / 15’7’’

16.78 m / 55’1’’

4.96 m / 16’3’’

OCEANIS 50 NEW

16.7 m / 54’9"

4.9 m / 16’1’’

18.24 m / 62’3’’

4.99 m / 16’4’’

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J/45 tested: Fast cruiser with timeless appeal

• Rupert Holmes
• April 20, 2022

The J/45 is a fast, but civilised, cruiser with a timeless appeal that will resonate with J/Boats’ many long standing devotees

Product Overview

Manufacturer:, price as reviewed:.

We’re close-hauled, sailing the new J/45 at 7.5 knots and catching up with a modern 55-footer, but slowly falling into her lee. Winding on a little mainsheet tightens the leech, putting us in a high mode almost 5° closer to the wind, and we climb above and ahead of the bigger boat. It’s classic J/Boat sailing that’s familiar to thousands of sailors, yet this is a comfortable 45ft cruiser with a host of luxuries including air conditioning.

The J/45 has heaps of appeal to anyone who’s sailed a J in the past. Yet, although the company is responsible for numerous cutting edge designs that changed the way we sail, this boat is more conservative in its nature – it’s an evolution rather than a revolution.

Low freeboard, moderate beam and fine ends by today’s standards, plus a single rudder, put it in classic J/Boat territory. The J/45’s development was also strongly influenced by a desire to produce a boat that’s a joy to sail in light airs, as well as being able to take heavy weather in its stride when necessary.

The J/45 is just as responsive to sail trim as the smaller and racier models in the range and is well powered up in only 8 knots of true wind, when we made 7.5 knots upwind.

Classic J/Boat hull shape gives good performance and handling. Photo: Andreas Lindlahr/EYOTY

As the wind progressively built above 10 knots we gradually depowered by pumping on more backstay tension as the boat accelerated further. In 13 knots of true wind we were making 8.4 knots of boat speed, at a true wind angle of only 42°. In stronger breezes the polars show optimal tacking angles of little more than 70°.

A German mainsheet system, led to winches just ahead of the helm stations, plus a 6:1 traveller, makes for easy trimming upwind. The rig is also easy to depower as the breeze builds – increased backstay tension is effective in changing the mainsail to a completely different shape, markedly reducing its drive.

Collaboration

The initial concept for this new flagship was developed and refined over three years of conversation between the American J/Boats team and J/Composites, based in Les Sables d’Olonne, with further input from Berret-Racoupeau for interior design, layout and ergonomics.

From the outset the key vision for the J/45 was for a comfortable cruiser that’s lots of fun to sail, even in light airs. It’s primarily intended for a family or two couples to spend up to 10 days or so on board, though of course the boat is capable of far more than this.

J/Boats has long favoured wheels over tillers, even on boats as small as the J/105 where tiller steering would create a more open cockpit and facilitate sail trimming when helming and alone in the cockpit. This philosophy is carried over to the J/45, where the narrow transom means the two wheels are of a small diameter.

The instrument pods at the helm stations are small, but both have enough space for a steering compass, pilot controls and a small MFD. Our test boat also has B&G Nemesis displays above the companionway hatch garage, but these were partially obscured by the coachroof winches, so I’d be likely to also opt for 20/20 or larger displays at the mast.

J/45 provides performance and pleasure

Throughout the test the helm was super light but responsive, with good feel that built reassuringly as the rudder loaded up when the J/45 was powered up and well heeled. My notes sum it up as: “a brilliant blend of performance and pleasure, with a lovely feel in the helm at all times.”

Tacking into an uncomfortable swell using the optional heavy weather staysail. Photo: Andreas Lindlahr/EYOTY

On the downside, it’s impossible to adjust the vang and backstay from the port helm station, although the mainsheet winches and traveller are within reach when sitting on the side deck astride the wheel.

Bearing away to a true wind angle of 135° and unfurling the Code 0 in 12 knots of true wind gave 8 knots of boat speed and beautifully easy, yet fast, sailing. Our highest speeds of the test were also achieved under Code 0, with 16 knots of true wind just abaft the beam. The boat powered up well, still feeling relaxed with speeds nudging into double figures, although weight built noticeably in the helm in the strongest gusts.

Article continues below

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Bearing away around the Îles de Glenans off the south Brittany coast we unfurl the gennaker of the new Pogo…

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Running at a true wind angle of 150° – marginally deeper than the polars show as the optimal angle for downwind VMG – with the 180m2 A2 spinnaker in 9 knots of breeze we made a respectable 6.1 knots. Luffing up 25° resulted in a jump to 8.5 knots.

Heading up further to 110° true and the apparent well forward of the beam, we were fully powered up and well heeled, although with only a small increase in speed. However, this gave the opportunity for an interesting test of the grip provided by the single rudder. When I first sailed twin rudder boats in the late 1990s I was absolutely hooked on the concept – the extra control they offered was a big revelation at the time. However, single rudder designs have been continuously developed and refined since then and the best have improved enormously.

The J/70 sportsboat, for instance, is an example of a modern design that offers precise handling and control through a single rudder, even though it’s transom hung and therefore operates in an area with a lot of turbulence.

As with TP52 s, the J/45’s rudder is well forward under the hull, clear of such turbulence, which helps maintain laminar water flow across the blade even at high angles of incidence and heel.

It’s just possible to reach the mainsheet winch from the helm. Photo: Rupert Holmes

When fully powered up close reaching with the big kite I tried bearing away sharply without easing the sheets. The J/45 answered the helm instantly with a dramatic course change and no hint of the rudder being anywhere close to stalling.

On the other hand, one downside of the moderate beam and finer ends is that the J/45 tends to sail at greater angles of heel than wide bodied twin-rudder yachts, where the angle rarely exceeds 20°.

Two choices are offered for handling the luff of the mainsail when reefing: either a strop with a dogbone that’s made fast near the gooseneck, or a downhaul led aft to the coachroof winches. The headsail of our test boat sets from an optional low-profile Facnor FD furler, while for stronger winds there’s a furling staysail that’s set on a halyard lock. This can be configured for use with the optional self-tacking jib sheet track and offers an excellent set up for winds over 20 knots.

The keel-stepped mast is unusual among performance cruisers today, but makes sense in this case as the extra support at the partners means the section is one size smaller than would be needed for a deck-stepped spar. This reduces weight aloft and makes the rig more responsive to backstay tension when depowering the mainsail.

Glorious sailing with the big A2 spinnaker. Photo: Rupert Holmes

Effort has been made to keep displacement low, although it’s still significantly heavier than some performance cruisers of this size. But at the same time performance is optimised for the fully loaded displacement, which minimises the effect loading the boat has on both speed and handling.

Construction is of infused vinylester resin and hull laminates are over-specified to give excellent stiffness and improved impact resistance.

Well specified

Nothing is skimped on in the deck layout and equipment on the J/45, while the standard specification is generally of a very high level. It includes many items that other yards list as expensive options, such as Nitronic 50 rod rigging, hydraulic backstay and vang, white painted aluminium spars, and a 60hp engine with three-blade folding prop.

Systems work flawlessly and the six winches are generously sized. At the same time, the deck has a very uncluttered appearance, with lines including halyards and the mainsheet system led aft beneath conduits. The hydraulic backstay and vang markedly reduce the amount of string in the cockpit, as do the standard headsail sheet cars that run on a track with pins, although towed cars are offered as an option.

Our test boat has the electric option for the port coachroof winch, which makes for easy spinnaker hoists and trimming. The pit area is also provided with self-stowing washboards and a commendably large rope bin. Other neat touches include the lazybag arrangement, which makes it easy to roll away excess fabric while sailing.

Slimline helm station pods have enough space for a plotter display. Photo: Rupert Holmes

The J/45 cockpit layout will be immediately familiar to any keen sailor, although unlike many yachts of this size, there’s no separate guest cockpit for those who want to stay well clear of the action. The cockpit is narrow by today’s standards, especially towards the transom, but the lack of wide open spaces here is not detrimental for a serious sailing yacht. Deep moulded bulwarks, plus stainless steel coachroof grab rails, give security when going forward, while the non-slip deck surface of our test boat proved effective, as did the Flexiteek fitted to the cockpit benches and sole.

Cruising stores on the J/45

Two-cabin versions of the J/45 have a large cockpit locker under the starboard bench, which is open to the lazarette and can also be accessed from the interior. There’s a lot of stowage space here, with the main area easily able to swallow a dinghy, several sails, paddleboards and more, although the access from deck is relatively narrow.

It also gives safe access to the quadrant and the pilot ram. In addition, there’s a dedicated liferaft locker, access to the lazarette from the cockpit sole and a large sail locker forward.

Given that most cruising stores and equipment tend to be stowed in the back half of a yacht, the 350lt water tank is under the double berth in the forward cabin, while the chain locker is right forward. This is deliberate to balance the weight of movable equipment and stores, but means weight is not concentrated centrally and it feels wrong to place so much in the ends of the boat. It’s a testament to the boat’s underlying design that this weight in the bow didn’t appear to mar handling, or detract from the lovely feel under sail during our test.

Access to quadrant and pilot in the lazarette. Photo: Andreas Lindlahr/EYOTY

No one buys a J/Boat solely on the basis of the interior and it’s no surprise the combination of low freeboard and moderate beam limit volume below deck. However, headroom is generous in the saloon and this a sufficiently large yacht to offer a considerable level of comfort.

While the overall style is instantly recognisable as that of a J/Boat, it’s at least a couple of notches above previous models in terms of quality and feel. J Composites has worked hard to achieve this and there’s a wide range of upholstery options.

Two-cabin versions have excellent stowage aft of the heads compartment, which is also accessible from on deck

The main living, galley and navigation station areas on the J/45 occupy a good length of the boat near the point of maximum beam and are therefore relatively spacious. There are good handholds both at the easy companionway steps and as you move forward into the saloon.

This is wide, with a settee/sea berth to starboard and generous U-shaped seating around the table opposite. On our test boat the aft transverse saloon seat houses an air-conditioning unit with outlets to the saloon and cabins.

At the foot of the companionway the semi U-shape galley has a large single sink and lots of worktop space, along with generally good stowage. Our test boat has a big top loading fridge, plus a second refrigeration unit with drawers, and a three-burner hob with oven. There’s no provision for a dishwasher or a washer-dryer.

The forward owner’s cabin. The fresh water tank is under the berth.

Opposite the galley, the chart table has a conventional forward-facing seat. It’s a good size, with reasonable stowage but no dedicated bookshelves, although some of the six large eye-level lockers lining each side of the saloon could be used for this purpose.

The owner’s cabin is forward, with a peninsula bed, plus a useful separate seat, good floor space and a decent size heads. However, the freshwater tank under the bed limits stowage volumes. This is mostly in one locker to starboard, with hanging space, plus three shelves and two smaller lockers underneath. While there’s ample space for shorter trips, those who envisage spending extended periods on board in cooler climes may need to also use some of the generous saloon stowage.

Aft cabins are smaller than average for a new 45-footer

The port aft cabin is a decent size, with reasonable stowage, although it lacks the palatial proportions of those on boats this of length with more freeboard and where maximum beam is carried right aft. On three-cabin boats the starboard cabin is almost a mirror image of this, but has a little less floor area and stowage.

The second heads compartment, to starboard at the base of the companionway steps, is well appointed and benefits from a big shower area in two-cabin boats. Three-cabin versions, however, lose the shower stall.

If you enjoyed this….

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J/Boats has never been afraid to carve its own path. That’s also true for this boat, even though the concept doesn’t obviously push new boundaries. It will certainly appeal to J aficionados. They will appreciate the responsive, precise handling and performance across a wide range of wind speeds and angles. Equally, anyone who’s endured long periods under power while cruising will appreciate the boat’s ability in light airs. It’s really positive to see J/Boats building at this size again. Overall the execution is good and the standard specification impressive, as is attention to detail. For example, this is the only boat of the 10 I tested last winter with cabin sole boards fastened down as per World Sailing’s Offshore Special Regulations, which apply to offshore races and cruising rallies such as the ARC. Add in good resale value and a worldwide dealer/support network and it’s not surprising that this model is already proving popular.

Transport a Sailboat - Costs & How To Ship

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

Sailboat transport is an essential and very well-established boating service with numerous options.

Sailboats can be transported by single-axle trailers, multi-axle trailers, cargo ships, and occasionally trains. Sailboats can also be transported across an ocean on their own with the help of a hired captain and crew. Costs vary widely based on size and type, and they range from $200 to more than $15,000.

In this article, we’ll cover several of the most common sailboat transportation methods. We’ll cover the details and requirements of each method, along with the required method by sailboat size and type. Additionally, we’ll explore the average costs of each method for a typical production cruising sailboat.

We sourced the information used in this article from sailboat transport agencies along with government towing and transportation guides. We carefully researched pricing to help you get a basic idea of what it’ll cost to transport a sailboat.

Table of contents

‍ Is Transporting a Sailboat Difficult?

It’s not necessarily difficult to transport a sailboat, but it does require care and careful planning. Your responsibilities as the sailboat owner range from trailer maintenance and careful driving to the organization of international logistics. In this article, we’ll discuss ways to streamline the process and make it easier.

Is Sailboat Transport Expensive?

Sailboat transport can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Obviously, moving a small sailboat is relatively cheap in comparison, especially if you already have a truck and a trailer.

The cost of transporting a larger boat is higher, as you’ll probably need to hire a shipping company or a crew.

There are multiple ways to transport a large sailboat, and the more economical method isn’t always immediately evident. Some boats may be cheaper to ship on a specially-designed yacht carrying vessel, while others may be cheaper if you hire a delivery crew.

Pricing varies between boats, locations, and destinations, so it’s essential to research all available methods and request multiple quotes. If you do, you could save thousands on transport and delivery, not to mention insurance costs to protect your vessel from possible damage.

Sailboat Transport Methods

There are several ways to transport a sailboat, and the ideal method depends upon the size and dry weight of the vessel. Dry weight is distinct from displacement, so it’s important to ensure that you have the correct number. Here are the most common ways to transport sailboats short and long distances.

Self Towing

Some sailboats can be towed, though the vehicle, trailer type, and license requirements vary based on size. The smallest and lightest dinghies and pocket cruisers can be towed by most typical cars, provided you have a heavy-duty tow hitch installed.

Larger sailboats, in the 20-foot range and longer, usually need to be towed by a pickup truck or SUV. A half-ton gasoline pickup truck is sufficient for lighter vessels, as long as the dry weight doesn’t exceed the vehicle’s towing capacity.

Also, remember that some automakers determine towing capacity under ideal test conditions, so your truck’s actual towing ability may be slightly lower than its rating.

You’ll have to collapse or remove the mast, boom, and standing rigging of the sailboat and secure it, regardless of its size.

Most trailer sailers can be towed by half-ton or 3/4 ton single rear wheel trucks. Larger sailboats, such as towable coastal cruisers, may require a multi-axle trailer and a gooseneck. This setup is often found with a dually 3/4 ton or 1-ton truck.

The Basics of Towing Rules in the United States

The rules of the road are clear when it comes to towing. With a Class C license (a standard driver’s license), the maximum overall trailer length you can tow is 60 feet. The maximum length of a Class C trailer surface is 53 feet.

Length usually isn’t the issue when it comes to towing sailboats. The maximum width of a class C trailer is 8 ft 6 in, which includes the items on the trailer. The regulations mean that the beam of your boat can’t exceed about 8 feet, give or take a couple of inches.

With a more advanced license or a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), you can tow a much larger trailer and drive a semi-truck. Some larger sailboats with greater beam width can be towed this way, though only if they remain below the maximum height.

Height requirements for trailers vary between 13 ft, 6 inches to 14 ft, depending on the location. This is measured from the ground to the top of the item on the trailer.

Be sure to plan your route carefully if you’re towing a boat with a full keel, as some older overpasses and railroad bridges are much shorter than 13 feet. 

Professional Towing Services

It’s usually best to leave the towing to professionals, especially if you’re towing a large boat. Experienced drivers with big rigs and commercial licenses can transport surprisingly large vessels safely but at a cost. The benefit of using a professional service is that you’re taking the risk off your shoulders.

Many professional towing services offer insurance, which is essential. Insurance protects the loading and unloading of the boat and covers any damages that occur en route. For the price, it’s a no-brainer.

In most cases, the tow company will not be able to help you launch your boat. You’re responsible for arranging boat crane services at your destination. It’s best to plan carefully, as you may end up paying more if you make the driver wait too long.

Cost of Professional Sailboat Towing Services

Cost varies widely based on the company, location, and size of the load. Most towing companies have a base fee, a fee of the assessed load, and then a per-mile charge. Some companies have different fee structures.

Companies that offer quotes usually predict a charge of between $500 and $1,000 for typical trips, though it can cost as little as $300 if you have a relatively small boat and it only needs to travel a short distance.

Shipping a Sailboat on a Cargo Ship

Large and small sailboats are frequently sent across oceans via cargo ships. This method is time-tested and relatively cost-effective, though it’s not as straightforward as just sailing the boat across.

Some people hire an agent to arrange shipping, which is the easiest and most reliable way to have a headache-free experience.

Shipping a sailboat by sea is slower than over-the-road transport, and schedules are less flexible. Often, you’ll have to wait for a spot to open up on a specifically-designed yacht carrying ship.

Once the ships are loaded, they set out at predetermined times that might be months ahead of when you booked. The best way to ensure you get a spot on a yacht shipping vessel is to plan well in advance of when you actually need to transport the vessel.

Logistics are the greatest challenge of shipping a boat on a larger ship. If you don’t work with an agent or an accommodating shipping company, you could have to work out the following and more:

• Transportation to the shipping yard
• Loading and securing instructions
• Shipping destination
• Payments to various services
• Customs in the destination country (if outside of the U.S.)
• Taxes and import fees
• Declarations
• Inspections
• Unloading at the destination
• Transportation from the destination port to the marina

As you can see, there are lots of reasons to hire a professional to manage the minutiae of shipping a sailboat. The last thing you want is to have your boat seized at customs or have it dropped off in an unguarded yard in the wrong location.

Cost to Ship a Sailboat on a Cargo Ship

Shipping costs for ocean-going boat transport are lower than many people expect. A lot of factors are involved, including the size of the boat, its height (from keel to mast top), its displacement, and the distance it needs to be shipped.

The lowest prices you’ll find to ship an average-sized boat are around $3,000 to $5,000. A more typical estimate for an average sailboat is between $6,000 and $10,000. Some vessels and destinations cost upwards of $15,000. Costs tend to increase with the size and distance, and the value of your sailboat also plays a part.

Prices in the yacht shipping industry are competitive, which is why it’s relatively affordable to ship a boat over an ocean. It’s surprisingly popular as well, and there are more than a dozen shipping companies offering long-distance ocean transport specifically for yachts of various sizes.

Hired Delivery

Hired crews for boat delivery is the other way to transport a sailboat over the water. Crew services find a captain and a small professional crew to sail your boat for you.

This is a great option for large boats, as it’s often less expensive and time-consuming than shipping it on a larger vessel.

Hired crew delivery services are offered by companies and experienced individuals. You can even find a trusted friend to crew your boat for you, and they can hire a crew member or two to accompany them for the journey.

While under hire, the crew will be living in your boat. Crew members come from all backgrounds, and many sailors spend a summer or two working for a charter service to make some money or get free transportation to other countries.

Cost to Hire a Delivery Crew

Hired crew delivery costs vary, though the more hands you need, the more it costs. Crews and captains usually charge daily rates for yacht delivery services. A fast sailboat is almost always cheaper to transport than a slow sailboat.

As an example, we’ll use the services of Captain James Lowe , who is a USCG licensed 200-ton Master. As of the writing of this article, Captain James Lowe charges between $350 and $425 per day for his services, depending on the size of the vessel. Deckhands cost $175 per day per person, which is in addition to the Captain’s charges.

These are the base rates, and they’re a good representation of what professional crewed delivery costs. You may find cheaper rates with other groups or individuals, but it’s worth the cost if you want a trustworthy and experienced crew.

Additional charges often include transportation costs (to and from the destinations), fuel costs (for heating, cooking, and motoring), and a deposit is usually required for fuel. These costs are impossible to predict without knowing your specific plans, so it’s best to reach out to Captain James Lowe for a specialized quote.

Hired crew delivery services usually have a minimum crew requirement for different boat sizes and types. In this case, sailboats require a minimum of one deckhand in addition to a captain. Larger sailing vessels of 65 feet or greater require two or more additional deckhands.

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

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