sailing a 40 foot sailboat

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• Cruising Yachts 40' to 45'

Popular Cruising Yachts 40 to 45 feet Long Overall Their Physical Properties & Key Performance Indicators

Welcome to this ever-growing gallery of some of the most popular cruising yachts between 40 and 45 feet (12.2m to 13.7m) long overall. But it's more than just a gallery - every image is a link to a page setting out the boat's physical properties, key performance indicators and other data.

Cruising Yachts featured on this page...

With plenty of room for a cruising couple to live aboard comfortably, production cruising boats within this size range are understandably very popular with long distance sailors.

However, marina charges worldwide seem to take a bit of a hike at 12m, so be warned...

If you'd like to submit a suitable image of a cruising yacht (yours perhaps?), please click here to send your pic. It doesn't have to be within this boat length category; if it isn't we'll move it to the appropriate one.

If after reading the valuable advice in this free eBook you go on to make further purchases, I may receive an affiliate commission.

Jeanneau 'Sun Odyssey' 409

Moody 41 Classic

Dehler 43 CWS

Hunter Passage 42

Beneteau First 435

Hallberg-Rassy 41

Sweden Yachts 42

Seastream 43

Morgan 41 Out Island Classic

Jeanneau Sun Magic 44 (also known as the Sun Odyssey 44)

Formosa 42 (also known as the Slocum 43)

Feeling 446

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 44i

Hallberg-Rassy 43

Freedom 44 (Cat Ketch)

Catalina Morgan 440

Catalina 445

Catalina 42 MkII

Beneteau 411

Bavaria Match 42

Island Packet 40

Roomy, comfortable and robust, the long-keeled Island Packet 40 could be many sailors ideal cruising yacht. 139 of them were built between 1994 and 2000.

'Zephyr' , an Ovni 395 dried out on a Cornish beach. Many thanks to Colin & Rebecca Campbell for this pic of their versatile cruising yacht.

Pearson 424

The Peason 424 cruising yacht is available as a ketch as the version shown below, or as a cutter. There's no denying that the Pearson 424 is an attractive cruising yacht.

The J/40 is a highly regarded performance cruising yacht. Designed and built to really sail well, passage times will be impressive.

Derived from C&C's Redline 41, the Newport 41 had a long and successful production run. It might lack some of the amenities of 'full-volume' modern cruising yachts below decks, but is a tough, fast and seakindly boat offshore.

Sirius 40 DS

The Sirius 40 DS motorsailer can be built with a number of keel options:  A deep fin keel of 7'6", 6'6" or 5'9"; a swing keel that draws 8'0" and 3'2" up; or twin keels that allow the boat to dry out upright. 

Columbia 43 MkIII

The gentle sheer and flush deck of this Columbia 43 MkIII aft-cockpit cruising yacht make for a very attractive sailboat.

Pacific Seacraft 40

Many thanks to Mike Price for this fine pic of his Contest 44 'Tumbledown Wind' as she crosses the ARC (Atlantic Rally for Cruisers) finishing line.

Mason 43 Cruising Yachts

Many thanks to Sally & Al Pribyl for this pic of their Mason 43 staysail ketch 'Artemis' , at anchor in Prickly Bay, Grenada.

Many thanks to Richard Clement and family for this fine pic of their Moody 425 cruising yacht 'Vega' .

Norseman 447

Many thanks for this pic to Dartanyon Race, co-Captain of this Norseman 447 cruising yacht 'Lutris' .

Hunter 40.5

Caliber 40 LRC

Swan 43 (S & S)

C&C Landfall 42

RH 43 (Also known as the CT 43)

Jeanneau Sun Legende 41

Hinckley Sou'wester 42 MkII

Ovni AluBat 43

Hallberg Rassy 42 (Frers)

She looks like a cutter in this pic, but the inline stays converging at the masthead shows that the Hallberg-Rassy 42 cruising yacht  'Cavatina' is a  solent rigged  sloop.

Beneteau 423

Beneteau Oceanis 42CC

Moody Eclipse 43

Trintella 44

Catalina 400 Mk2

Islander 44

Grand Soleil 39

Westerly Oceanlord 41

CSY 44 (Walk-Through)

Many thanks to Jeff and Carolee, for this pic of their CSY 44 Walk-Thru' staysail ketch  'Contessa' .

CSY 44 (Mid-Cockpit)

Jeanneau 'Sun Odyssey' 40.3

Outbound 44

Island Packet 445

Many thanks to Jim Shanahan for this great pic of his Island Packet cruising yacht 445 'Watermark III'.

Passport 40

More Cruising Yachts Pics Please...

Hallberg-rassy 42 (enderlein), recent articles.

Wauquiez Gladiateur 33 for Sale

Apr 10, 24 05:40 AM

'Cabo Frio', a Catalina Morgan 43 for sale

Apr 01, 24 08:35 AM

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Oceanis 30.1

Oceanis 34.1, oceanis 37.1, oceanis 40.1, oceanis 46.1, oceanis 51.1.

• Oceanis Yacht 54
• Oceanis Yacht 60
• FIGARO BENETEAU 3
• Heritage sailing yacht
• Flyer 6 SUNdeck
• FLYER 6 SPACEdeck
• Flyer 7 SUNdeck
• Flyer 7 SPACEdeck
• Flyer 8 SUNdeck
• Flyer 8 SPACEdeck
• Flyer 9 SUNdeck
• Flyer 9 SPACEdeck
• Antares 7 Fishing
• Antares 8 Fishing
• ANTARES 11 FLY
• Gran Turismo 32
• Gran Turismo 36
• Gran Turismo 41
• Gran Turismo 45
• Swift Trawler 35
• Swift trawler 41 Sedan
• Swift trawler 41 Fly
• Swift Trawler 48
• Grand Trawler 62
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*Recommended retail price. Value-Added Tax is subject to change, according to the country of purchase. For pricing information, availability and product characteristics, thank you to contact your dealer.

• Description
• Main Points

Specifications

Following in the wake of her elder sister the Oceanis 51.1, this 40-foot cruiser, with  a new hull design by Marc Lombard , offers unrivalled  deck volume and interior space , an there are no concessions to performance. The 12-metre long Oceanis 40.1 is  available in different layouts, draughts and rigs , adapting to the most demanding sailor’s cruising requirements and satisfying their need for comfort and pleasure under sail.

NAVAL ARCHITECT : Marc Lombard

INTERIOR & DECK DESIGN : Nauta Design

Exterior design

Exterior design.

How can you enjoy life at anchor as much as sailing? With the innovative flared hull design of the Oceanis 40.1, and steps extending over a third of the bow, BENETEAU has broken new ground but made no concessions. The result is a hull that has true speed potential and is stiff under sail. Above the waterline, her deck plan and ultra-spacious interior by  Nauta Design  is unheard of on a boat this size. You cannot help feeling that you are aboard a 45 foot cruiser!

Interior Design

With a  walnut or light oak ambiance , the styling of the interior by Italian designers Nauta, is remarkably bright and excels in the skilful arrangement of the living spaces. She is available with two, three or four cabins and a  C-shaped galley  on the starboard, offering lots of storage and a spacious worktop. On the port side, there is a large saloon with a table and a removable bench, and a chart table at the foot of the companionway provides ample working space. Everything is modular, so that everyone can live the way they want and enjoy sailing wherever the wind takes them.

12 METRES OF SPACE!

The philosophy of the Oceanis 40.1 is to make sailing and mooring really pleasurable. The strengths of this cruiser, studied in detail by the architect Marc Lombard and the BENETEAU design office, are unrivalled space inside, a huge deck plan and the ability to clock up miles when you are cruising.

LIFE AT ANCHOR

The ergonomics and easy movement in the cockpit make life on board so simple. Nothing interferes with the joy of life at anchor. Feel like splashing around the boat in an idyllic creek? The transom easily converts to an extensive swim platform, similar in size to the ones you find on the largest Oceanis cruising yachts. Having access to the sea is an integral part of life on a sailing yacht, and this one is a model of its kind. 

FOR SAILORS SEEKING EXCITEMENT UNDER SAIL…

As there is no one way to sail, and because everyone takes their cruising at their own pace, the Oceanis 40.1 comes in several versions. Sailors keen on performance can choose the First Line version, with a longer mast and a greater draught. The in-mast furling system and self-tacking jib will make manoeuvring easier shorthanded. A classic mast for a semi full batten mainsail is also available.

HEAVENS ABOVE, SO MUCH SPACE!

The hatches and the many hull and coachroof portholes, two of which look towards the cockpit, fill the boat with natural light and ventilation, making her exceptionally bright. You really feel like you are entering a much bigger boat! The Oceanis 40.1 comes in 4 different versions with two, three, and four cabins to fit everyone’s idea of a holiday on board. Couples and large families will feel like they are at home! The owner version has a suite with ensuite shower and head, and a bed easily accessed from either side. The four-cabin version has two forward spaces with bunk beds.

A connected boat

The mobile application, Seanapps , and its onboard unit lets you view the status of the boat's various systems (battery charge, fuel or water tank levels, maintenance scheduling) via your smartphone, as well as planning your route or reviewing your sailing status using your mobile phone.

Virtual tour

Length Overall

Beam overall

Lightship Displacement

Air Draught Max

Draught Min

Draught Max

Fuel Capacity

Water Capacity

Max. engine power

Cabin Number

CE Certification

A10 / B10 / C12

• CE Certification A10/ B10/C12 (12 passengers on board)
• Large benches seating six guests, with a fold away table.
• Two steering wheel stations each with a comfortable seat
• First Line version: extra-long mast and bigger draught
• Standard version: in-mast furling system and self-tacking jib
• Large locker in 2 sections in the cockpit floor

2 cabins & 1 head

• U-shaped saloon seat
• C-shaped fitted galley: fridge, sink, 2-ring hob, oven, storage and worktop
• Master cabin with double bed positioned on the boat’s centreline
• Aft cabin with double berths 
• Shower room with shower compartment and marine toilet 
• Several hull portholes and coachroof portlights make the space naturally bright

3 cabins & 1 head

• Two aft cabins with double berths
• Shower room with shower compartement, washbasin cabinet and marine toilet

3 cabins & 2 heads

• Two shower room with shower compartment and marine toilet

HARKEN HARDWARE

All Oceanis news

Where can you find out about the brand new BENETEAU sailing yachts and powerboats this fall ?

You can enjoy a variety of activities on a sailing yacht or motorboat trip

Oceanis 40.1 and Oceanis Yacht 54 : The New Wave of Oceanis Cruising Yachts by BENETEAU

Beneteau services.

With teams for sea trials, financing, customization, events, an after-sales service, and a network of dealers worldwide, BENETEAU delivers the help and expertise every boat owner needs throughout his boating life maintaining an enduring customer relationship.

Other boats from the range

9.53 m / 31’3’’

2.99 m / 9’10’’

10.77 m / 35’4’’

3.57 m / 11’9’’

11.93 m / 39’2’’

3.92 m / 12’10’’

14.6 m / 47’11’’

4.5 m / 14’9’’

15.94 m / 52’4’’

4.8 m / 15’9’’

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Home » Blog » Bluewater sailboats » The best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet (we analyzed 2,000 boats to find out)

The best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet (we analyzed 2,000 boats to find out)

By Author Fiona McGlynn

Posted on Last updated: August 17, 2023

What are the best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet?

Last year we analyzed 2,000 offshore designs to bring you a list of the most popular bluewater sailboats .

However, most people are searching for a boat in a particular size class. So, we decided to do a double-click and look at the best sailboats under 40 feet for offshore sailing.

If you’re interested in an even smaller boat, there are plenty of great options under 30 feet in our list of the best small sailboats for sailing around the world .

The characteristics that make a sailboat a bluewater sailboat are a hotly debated topic, so we wanted to use real-world data and find out what cruisers are using to cross oceans and sail around the world.

We looked at 2,000 boats that entered the Pacific Puddle Jump  (PPJ) over the last 12 years. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the PPJ, it’s a rally that crosses the Pacific ocean.  We took part in 2017 and had a ball!

Also, if you’re looking to buy one of the bluewater boats on this list, you might want to check out our post on the best places to buy used boats and how to find free or cheap boats for sale .

Just be aware that a bluewater boat isn’t necessarily offshore-ready. Our top five picks are all older boats and will undoubtedly require work.

Every cruiser we know made substantial repairs and additions before going offshore: adding watermakers , life rafts, solar panels, and more.

Also, always have a boat inspected by a professional and accredited marine surveyor before buying it or taking it offshore.

So, without further preamble, here are the best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet.

The best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet

1. the westsail 32.

The Westsail 32 is one of the most iconic bluewater cruisers. Built by the Westsail Corporation in the 1970s, this plucky, small sailboat has developed a cult following over the decades. Since 2009, 19 have set out to cross the Pacific in the PPJ rallies.

The Westsail 32 is known for its sturdy construction, seaworthiness, and classic looks. In fact, it set the standard for what a real bluewater cruiser should look like. In 1973, the Westsail 32 was featured in Time magazine and inspired many Americans to go cruising.

Though popular, this boat has earned the unenviable nickname “ Wetsnail 32″, a reference to its poor ability to windward and sluggish performance. But Westsail 32 owners don’t care that they won’t be winning any races.

What the boat lacks in speed it makes up for in classic looks and excellent offshore cruising characteristics. Many owners have crossed oceans and circumnavigated the globe in their Westsail 32s.

2. Tayana 37

The Tayana 37 is a wildly popular Bob Perry design. It first rolled off the production line in 1976 and there are now several hundred of them sailing the world’s oceans.

Above the waterline, the Tayana 37 boasts beautiful traditional lines. However, Perry wanted to avoid the unenviable (read: sluggish) performance characteristics, associated with double-enders.

So, he designed the Tayana 37 with a cut-away long keel and moderate displacement, maintaining the classic look, while achieving reasonable performance.

The Tayana 37 has a devoted following of offshore enthusiasts. Since 2009, 12 Tayana 37s have set out to cross the Pacific in the PPJ rallies.

Read more about the Tayana 37 in this Practical Sailor review .

3. Hans Christian 38T

The Hans Christian 38T is a full-keeled, heavy displacement bluewater boat with a long bowsprit and a clipper bow, giving it a distinctive appearance. It was first introduced in 1976 and was produced until the early 1990s.

If you hadn’t already guessed, the “T” in the name stands for “Traditional”. Like many boats on this list, it takes a cue from Crealock’s famous Westsail 32 which sparked a craze in the 1970s and 80s for Scandinavian-style doubled-enders.

It’s gained a reputation as a capable and seaworthy cruising yacht. Many owners have crossed oceans and completed circumnavigations in Hans Christian 38Ts.

By our count, eight Hans Christian 38Ts have participated in Pacific Puddle Jump rallies over the last 12 years.

4. Island Packet 380

I’ve always considered Island Packets the Rolls-Royce of the bluewater boat world. Their distinctive cream-colored topsides make them easy to spot and their robust bluewater construction makes them the envy of many far-flung anchorages.

Designed by Bob Johnson and built by Island Packet Yachts in Florida, the Island Packet 380 was first introduced in 1998. 169 were built before 2004, over which time it gained a reputation as a capable and comfortable offshore cruiser.

Having been built in the ’90s and early 2000s, this is a relatively newer boat. In many ways, it offers the best of both worlds, a classic-looking boat with all the modern cruising conveniences.

The Island Packet 380 design prioritizes safety and stability. It also has several offshore features including standard twin bow rollers, a divided anchor locker, and ample storage for cruising gear.

Life below deck is comfortable too. With a 13-foot (4 meter) beam there’s plenty of room for liveaboard amenities.

The Island Packet 380 is a popular choice for long-distance cruising and offshore passages. Since 2009, six Island Packet 380s have set out to cross the Pacific in PPJ rallies.

Read more about the Island Packet 380 in this review by Yachting Monthly .

5. Ingrid 38

The Ingrid 38 is a double-ended sailboat that was originally designed for wood construction in 1938.

In 1971, Bluewater Boat Co. began building a fiberglass version. The design proved hugely popular and more than 140 were built.

With a full keep and heavy displacement, the Ingrid 38 epitomizes the traditional bluewater cruiser. Yet, it remains a well-loved design today. Since 2009, six Ingrid 38s have set out to cross the Pacific in PPJ rallies.

Description

Fiona McGlynn is an award-winning boating writer who created Waterborne as a place to learn about living aboard and traveling the world by sailboat. She has written for boating magazines including BoatUS, SAIL, Cruising World, and Good Old Boat. She’s also a contributing editor at Good Old Boat and BoatUS Magazine. In 2017, Fiona and her husband completed a 3-year, 13,000-mile voyage from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia on their 35-foot sailboat.

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How Much Sailboats Cost On Average (380+ Prices Compared)

Turns out that owning a sailboat is pretty affordable. OK, it isn't cheap, but it can absolutely be done on a budget. In this article, I'll show you exactly what to expect.

Sure, super yachts are expensive, but so is everything super (except for maybe supermarkets). But a modest, used sailboat can be as cheap as $2,500 and an additional $1,400 per year.

It may come as a surprise to you that you can get a decent sailboat for as little as $1,500 on Craigslist.

Average sailboat costs at a glance

We've compared thousands of listings, so you don't have to. If you just want the ballpark figures, here they are:

The average price of new sailboats is $425,000 ($127,000 to $821,000). The average price of used sailboats is $278,000 ($67,000 to $555,000). Maintenance costs are on average $2,000 - $3,000 per year, and the average total annual cost is $3,000 to $7,000.

Of course the price of a sailboat depends on our choices. We decide whether sailing is a rich man's game, or actually a very good holiday investment. (It beats driving to a bungalow park for sure - both cost-wise and the experience itself.)

How Much To Charter a Superyacht? (Less Than You Think)

Why you should trust us These figures are based on our latest research which was last updated September 26th 2023 . We do this research every year, giving us very accurate numbers and clear insight into the trend of sailboat prices. We've literally compared thousands of sailboat listings over the years, and we've done so methodically. The research is done by our researcher Tay, who is an engineer by trade.

This will be a long article because there are so many aspects to cover. I'd like to spend some time exploring the costs of actually buying the boat. Then I want to go into recurring costs , like mooring, maintenance, and insurance.

To really drive home what you're getting into , I'll give four real-life examples. These examples include every expense as a separate line-item. And we'll go over them line-by-line together.

Then I'll share our exact research results with you . This will include all our numbers: new vs. used, average price per foot, and much more. These are extremely detailed numbers (you don't have to read this if you don't want to).

At the end of the article, we'll discuss why a boat doesn't just cost money: she can actually make you some if you wanted.

• A used family week-ender with a small cabin will cost roughly $30,000 (all-in for the first year).
• If you dream of sailing around the world, expect to spend around $100,000.
• New sailboats on average cost twice as much as used boats.
• Maintenance cost are 5-10% of the boat's value per year. Docking costs are roughly $800 - $2,500 per year.
• Sailboat prices have gone up 30% this year.

On this page:

Average sailboat cost: 2023 summary, examples of popular sailboats, and how much they cost, what does it cost to buy a sailboat, what does it cost to own a sailboat, make or save some money, related questions.

Before we really get into it, I first want to give you the quick rundown. So I've summarized our research for you.

Buying a sailboat

Small boats are up to 30 foot long . They'll be very capable and great for solo sailors or small families who want to go on day trips, or short week-end trips on inland waters. Some of them will have cabins and sleeping quarters, although small.

Medium boats are between 30 and 50 foot long . They'll host larger parties and will be more suited for longer trips, coastal sailing, or even bluewater cruising. Sailboat length isn't necessarily the most important feature for that, though.

Large boats are 50 foot and up . This is proper yacht territory, and they'll be a lot more luxurious, and also exponentially more expensive.

If you buy via a broker, you typically get more reliable boats, but also pay more. If you buy off of Craigslist, you get a fat discount, but there are more lemons on there too.

You could hire a boat surveyor who will inspect the boat before you buy it (much like when you buy a house). Those surveys are not very expensive and can be worth your money.

Owning a sailboat

There are a lot of costs involved with simply owning a boat. The biggest expenses will be docking and maintenance.

Those two alone will account for roughly 80% of your yearly expenses.

• Maintenance : 5-10% of the boat's value
• Docking : $800-$2,500 per year on average, depeding on location

If we want to know what we're getting ourselves into, we should know every expense to the dot.

Below, we'll go over four very different case studies. I'm hoping one of these will relate to your specific situation. It'll show you what to expect and how to budget for your purchase.

The four sailboat case studies

• What does it cost if you want to keep your boat in good shape and have a good sailing experience? - aka: most people
• What does it cost if you ONLY spend the absolute minimum amount to keep her floating?
• If I want to sail the world on a budget, what's the absolute minimum?
• If sailing is more of a status thing to you, how much money COULD you spend?

There are a lot of great boats out there for a good price and there are also some boats that are so expensive (or so cheap), it's not even fun to look at them.

But one thing's for sure: there are plenty of boats available, and even if you're on a very tight budget, you could absolutely still make it work. Sailing in and of itself is actually not that expensive: wind is free, water is free, boats can be cheap - if you're willing to look around a bit. It's all the little extras that add up quickly.

Listed below are 4 boats that make great beginner boats. Since more than 80% of all boats that are bought are second-hand, I'll use the prices of used boats I found on Craigslist.

If you want to know exactly where the numbers come from, don't worry, I'll explain them after the 4 examples.

1. Island Packet 26' for stressless weekends on the lake

The one-time costs are $24,860 Your total recurring costs are $5,650 per year, or $471 per month

Let's say you're like me and most other people and just want a nice boat without too much hassle. So you pay people for complex maintenance. You do the required maintenance and save up for future repairs. You do a little yourself, which saves you a couple of hundred of bucks a year. You also join a (cheap) sailing club to learn how to not trash the boat. You get the right trailer, and you save up some money for future repairs. You don't want to buy a bad boat, so you pay a fair purchase price

One-Time Costs:

Recurring costs:, 2. extreme low budget catalina 22'.

Ok, I'm very interested in how cheap you could actually go (in theory). Is it do-able to buy a very cheap sailboat and just keep her afloat, never change sails, and only pay for maintenance that is absolutely necessary to not sink?

In this scenario, I don't care about speed, so I don't change sails. I certainly won't join a sailing club, and I try to save some money on the marina by boondocking. I also happen to live in a cheap state registration and tax-wise.

Docking costs can get out of hand For an average sailboat, depending on your area and wishes, up to $5,000/year . Read everything about docking costs

I try to pay as little as possible for the boat itself (and I've actually found a Catalina 22 for $2,250 on Craigslist today!). I don't save up for rigging and hardware (tomorrows' worries). I try to get an extra 2 years out of my bottom paint and I only do the essential repairs, and I do them myself. But because I saved so much on the purchase, this little boat needs a lot of maintenance.

Luckily, I have time on my hands and know my way around engines and rigging, so I do all of it myself (with the help of YouTube).

I don't bother with winterizing my boat, I'll just sail somewhere warm. Oh, and I'll use the engine as little as possible to save on gas.

Will your boat be happy? Definitely not, but your wallet will be (for now). Can it be done? It's optimistic, but yes, I think it can be done. But you have to be mechanically inclined, and pretty creative.

The one-time costs are $2,428 Your total recurring costs are $1,380 per year, or $115 per month

Recurring Costs

3. low budget 35' ocean cruiser for traveling the world.

If you dream of crossing oceans, you need a comfortable ride. Usually, most sailors pick a boat that's between 32' - 50' for two person ocean cruising. Anything under 32' gets pretty uncomfortable in high waves, although it can be done.

But this is also the range that gets expensive - quickly . So if we're on a tight budget, but also need a good and reliable boat: how much will it cost?

The boat will cost you $35,000. For this price, I've seen a beautiful 1983 wooden cutter (by Robert Tucker), multiple Beneteau Oceanis from '88 - '89, multiple Bavarias ... plenty of solid choices on the second-hand market here.

In this example, you don't join any sailing clubs (I assume you're pretty experienced if you want to cross oceans). You also don't winterize (you're sailing the Caribbean by now). No trailer, as you won't haul it out of the water any time soon.

You do pay a fair price for the boat because you don't want any surprises during your Tour du Monde. In need of a lot of bottom paint , since you're in saltwater most of the time. It's also a good idea to invest in at least SOME navigation equipment, so for $500 I've added a simple but capable GPS chartplotter and compass.

You can get a cheap but reliable chartplotter and compass for less than $500 - in total. If you want to learn more, head over to the recommended gear section .

The one-time costs are $37,590 Your total recurring costs are $5,425 per year, or $452 per month

4. Powerful 40' Yacht (and everything that goes with it)

Let's say you're in the game for the fame. What does it cost me to own a grande yacht with all luxuries (and costs) that go with it?

I join an expensive sailing club, hire pros that maintain the thing beautifully, and I also pay for winterization, the best trailer I can find. I replace my sails and running rigging every 5 years - since speed matters to me. Because she's my pride, I paint her every year. I spend an additional 500 bucks a year on special soaps and waxes.

I want a prime mooring location, so I pay a premium. I also get a small boat to hang from the large boat, to get to shore more quickly.

The one-time costs are $166,400 Your total recurring costs are $15,150 per year, or $1,263 per month

There are a couple of important factors that determine how much money you end up spending.

• Size - length determines mooring costs, insurance, amount of paint on your hull, literally everything gets more expensive with every foot of length
• New vs. used - of course, it makes all the difference whether you buy new or used. Typically, the price of a 25-year old used sailboat vs. a comparable new one is 3-4 times lower ($60,000 vs $200,000).

With used sailboats, I find that the price generally increases rapidly from 30 feet onwards

It's the same with new sailboats - or actually, it keeps increasing with every extra couple of feet. The reason is that as the boat gets bigger, it also gets more luxurious (upholstery, finishing, equipment).

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

• under 30 ft: $3,217 per ft
• 30 - 50 ft: $7,625 - $11,128 ft
• over 50 ft: $14,927 - $78,033 per ft

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

• under 30 ft: $1,773 per ft
• 30 - 50 ft: $6,473 per ft
• over 50 ft: $10,091 - $36,889 per ft

If this is too much for you, you could always rent a boat instead. I recommend chartering. You can get great sailboats at great prices. Check out my charter recommendation here .

Cost of buying a sailboat

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.com Q3 2023

The price of new sailboats ranges from roughly $1,765 - $78,033 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 sailboats, comparing thousands of listings. Here are the complete data:

Source: Yachtworld Q3 2023

The price of used sailboats ranges from roughly $882-$36,889 per foot . Here's the detailed price per foot for all lengths from 20 to 100 feet:

Prices on Craigslist

The price of used sailboats ranges from roughly $476-$2,098 per foot.

To get an average of the price of a used sailboat, I went over to Craigslist. I took the first 20 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: $11,065
• over 30 ft: $87,020

I've calculated the median price , not the average. The median is the price that's most common within the price range. This way the highest and lowest prices don't have as much impact.

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

• under 30 ft: $476 per ft
• over 30 ft: $2,098 per ft

This is what I found on Craigslist under 30 feet:

Washington dc.

Source: Craigslist Washington DC Q3 2023

Los Angeles

Source: Craigslist Los Angeles Q3 2023

Source: Craigslist Houston Q3 2023

South Florida

Source: Craigslist Miami Q3 2023

Source: Craigslist New York Q3 2023

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

Sailboat price development.

Compared to our 2022 research, the median price of new sailboats has gone up 22.5% (from $251,000 to $307,500). The average price has gone up 33.6% (from $248,000 to $331,250).

The average price of used sailboats under 30 ft on Craigslist has gone up 30% (from $8,500 to $11,000).

Sailboat prices research archive

You can check our earlier research data here:

• 2022 average sailboat price data
• 2019 average sailboat price data

Catamarans are 60% more expensive

If you dream of owning a catamaran, you should expect to pay roughly 60% more for the boat, and 60% more on annual cost like upkeep and mooring. There are exceptions, of course, and for some boat lengths, new catamarans may be slightly more affordable than a monohull.

I've researched thousands of catamaran listings as well to come up with those numbers. The exact numbers are summarized in my guide on the average cost of buying and owning a catamaran. It's very similar to this article, so if you like this and are curious about catamaran prices as well, I encourage you to check it out.

Average Cost of Buying & Owning a Catamaran (With 4 Examples)

So let's take a quick look at the costs for owning a sailboat.

One-time costs:

• Registration : costs of registration differ per state, but usually run anywhere from $3 - $10 per foot.
• Taxes : differs per state and country. Most governments want you to pay property tax and sales tax. Sales tax is usually about 5%. Property tax varies and is more complex, so I'll leave that up to you to figure out.
• Trailer : $1,000
• Sailing club initiation fee : $1,500 - $4,000

Recurring costs:

• Mooring : $10-15 per foot per year (can be much higher for prime locations)
• Insurance : typically 1.5% of the total value of the boat. So a $50,000 26' cruiser will cost 750 bucks.
• Maintenance : a good rule of thumb is 10% of the boat value. Expect to spend anywhere between $500 - $2,500 per year for small to mid-sized boats.
• Fuel : depends on how much you use the boat and the engine, but on average something between $100 - $150. - Find out how much fuel a sailboat uses in my article here (opens in new tab).
• International License : if you want to sail on international waters, you have to get your ICC (International Certificate of Competence ). Plan on spending anywhere between 400 to 500 dollars.
• Safety equipment : plan on spending anywhere between 150 to 600 bucks for lifejackets, first aid kit, and distress signals.
• Winterize boat : $2,000
• Sailing club: $800 - $1,500

Cost of owning a boat

Maintenance

Your average maintenance cost will be roughly $144 dollars per month for boats under 30', or just under $2,000 per year.

Maintenance involves a lot of hidden costs We took an in-depth look at everything . The result is a comprehensive article that lays it all out for new boat owners. Read all about maintenance costs

Gas engines run for about 1,500 hours, diesel engines run for 5,000. After that, you'll need to change them out.

Most engines will last you about 20 years.

A standard 15HP or 20HP outboard gas engine will cost you about $5,000 - $6,000 and needs replacing every 20 years or so. If you do the work yourself, it's more something like $1,000 - $1,500.

A smaller engine uses less fuel, reducing your total cost You can actually use a pretty small engine for most sailboats. To learn how small (and efficient) you can go, I've written a guide on how to calculate it yourself. Read all about outboard engine size

Replacing the sails and rigging

Most people that own a sailboat will have to replace the sails and rigging at least once in their lifetime. Replacing the mast is uncommon, but if you're unlucky and get demasted, it will need to be fixed. So I've added it to the "be aware this might happen" list - but won't add it to the monthly recurring costs.

If you need to replace the mast and boom, prepare to spend anywhere between $15,000 - $25,000.

I won't go into detail, but I have written a long article about the cost of new sails (opens in new tab). It's a really helpful post (with a formula) if you want to know what to expect.

Good quality cruising sails will need to be replaced every 10 years or so.

The cost of new sails is on average:

• 26' Bermuda Sloop rig will cost you about $1,000 - $2,500.
• 34' Bermuda Sloop rig will cost you about $3,000 - $5,000.

The cost of the new rigging is on average:

• Standing rigging - every 10 years at $4,000
• Running rigging - every 5-10 years at $5,000

Bottom Paint

Your boat will need bottom paint roughly every 2 years (could be longer, but to be safe, let's keep it at two). It's also called antifouling paint because it helps to protect your hull from weeds, barnacles, and so on. Barnacles can slice through your boat's bellow! So you don't want them on there.

On average, it costs about $15 to $20 per foot to get your sailboat hull painted professionally.

For a 26' sailboat, that's just 500 bucks. Money well spent.

Replacing safety equipment

USCG safety regulations require you to replace safety gear regularly.

• Lifejackets have to be replaced every 10 years.
• Flares have to be replaced every 42 months. You could consider buying a LED electric distress light instead, which will last you a lifetime.
• If you carry a life-raft you'll need to replace that every 12 years as well.

Adhering to the minimum safety requirements shouldn't cost you more than 150 - 250 dollars every 5 years. But if you want the good stuff, need more fire extinguishers, plan on spending more like $600. If you want a life raft, that's another $1,500.

To avoid you have to go cheap on your safety gear, I've put it in the budget for $500.

If you want to know exactly what the USCG safety requirements are, including checklists , definitely check out my article here.

Winterizing your boat

Winterization is an often overlooked cost, but it can be one of the largest expenses each year. If you're like me, and not so lucky to live in Florida, you need to winterize your boat.

Failing to winterize it will increase your maintenance cost over time, as the engine wears out more quickly, and your plumbing and equipment will fall apart. Winter storms and ice can damage the hull and mast as well. Learn all about the dangers of failing to winterize here .

It's the best way to protect your boat in wintertime, period.

It consists of two parts:

• Winterizing - costs $500 to $1000 - This is the preparation for winter storage. You flush the cooling system with anti-freeze, and the boat gets wrapped in a shrink wrap cover.
• Winter storage - costs $50 per ft on average

Some other maintenance costs:

• Batteries: deep cycle batteries need replacing every 4-6 years at $600
• Deck hardware: every 20-30 years (bullseyes, tiller, eye straps) at $1,500

Joining a Sailing Club

If you're new to sailing, you might want to consider joining a sailboat club. This might help you to get tips, make friends, and learn in a safe environment. Most clubs also organize races, which are a great way to quickly improve your sailing skills.

But it comes at a cost. Sailing clubs are very expensive.

Initiation fees range anywhere between $1,000 - $4,000. But that's not all.

Then there's an annual fee of $500 - $1,000 per year. And lot's of additional fees: for dining, lockers, etc.

If you're willing to skip Christmas, go for it.

How about making up for some of those losses? There's just no better feeling than earning back all that cash with the same thing that you've spent it on in the first place.

There are lot's of ways to earn a little extra with your boat - if you're willing to put in the effort. Here are a few ideas:

• hire yourself out as the captain of a personalized cruise (for families, newly-weds, groups of colleagues)
• take people to go fishing
• hire your boat out to yacht charter companies
• teach someone to sail
• take photographers, film crews, and artists on tours
• organize dolphin and whale watching tours
• delivery of cargo - some places just can't be reached by car, for example, the city center of Giethoorn (Dutch Venice). So you have a competitive edge here!

Some ideas to save money:

• install solar panels (no more dock power)
• buy a and cheap small boat (kayak or someting) to get to offshore anchorage (which are cheaper)
• shop around for insurance
• get gas at the gas station, not the marina
• do your own maintenance as much as possible
• find a friend with water access to avoid mooring
• use it a lot (prevents stuff from breaking)
• fix things that are broken immediately
• keep your sails out of the sun
• do your own upgrades

For example, convert your winches to self-tailing yourself. I was really surprised by how cheaply this can be done yourself. Read my article on how to do it here (opens in new tab).

How much does it cost to paint a boat hull? Painting a boat hull with antifouling paint will usually cost between $15 - $20 per feet. For example, a 25-foot sailboat will cost roughly $500. A 35-foot sailboat will cost $800 to repaint. You can get premium paints and services, which can quadruple the cost. Typically, a boat needs to be repainted every two years.

Why are used sailboats so cheap? Sailboats require a lot of skill and patience. They can be quite expensive to maintain and to keep in slip. Some people find they can't afford the marina rent, upkeep, and other costs; sometimes they simply don't want to; others don't want to sail anymore. In some cases, expensive and important parts are missing.

How much does it cost to charter a sailboat? The price of a charter depends on location, size of the vessel, crew or bareboat chartering, and so on. However, on average, a bareboat yacht charter will cost anywhere from $5,000 - $10,000 per week. Crewed charters cost anywhere between $10,000 - $15,000 per week. Superyachts may cost up to $150,000 per week.

Thanks to Jean-Pierre Bazard for letting me use his wrapped boat photo under CC BY-SA 3.0

Excellent write up. This is honestly the type of information that’s hard to find as you’re trying to get into sailing. I’m a car guy. People think of car collecting like Jay Leno, but it can be done cheaply. I get the impression sailing is the same way.

Shawn Buckles

Hi Stephen, thanks a lot for your kind words, really appreciate it! It really is kind of the same, it’s all about how much time and effort you’re willing to put in. As with anything, lots can be achieved with energy and attention.

Thanks again.

Serious question. Why are you buying a trailer for a 40 ft yacht? That doesn’t even make sense.

Hi Christian, thanks for the remark. 40 ft boat trailers do actually exist, although I agree that most people probably won’t trailer a 40 ft yacht.

Thank a lot for the very useful information„ now you caused me to start thinking why don’t I start sailing lessons to do round the world in a sail boat ( instead of an aircraft)

Hello Hatem, you’re very welcome. Smooth sailing, or flying.

Hi, I am not familiar with boats. My boss just asked me to find a nice boat for him. Thank you for this informative post, this helps me so much. By the way, I already found a site selling yachts here in the Philippines, here’s the link https://rayomarine.com Do you have any suggestion with brand and boat type. Thank you! More power!

Very good information, but I am having a hard time matching these number here in Southern California. Cheapest slip I found so for is $375/month, on a very run down and far from the ocean marina. At the harbor that I want, the cheapest I found is $800/month. Even if I was given a boat for free, just keeping it in place would cost me almost 10k/year

Excellent writeup, Shawn! Thank you very much for all your hard work and I look forward to reading your other articles on the subject.

Great info! We are in the market for our first sailboat and this answered many of our questions. Although I do agree with Rafael that slip prices in Southern California our much higher than what you listed. The marina we like will run about $1000 a month.

Thank you for your artical…a LOT of useful information included in it sir. I have been thinking about buying one for two years now, since I moved to a harbor town near where I grew up. We always had motor boats when I was young. But, I always loved sailing MUCH much more! I love the quiet of it, and always something to do, rather than just sit, drive, gas it up, dock, repeat. Laugh!! It’s about a ten min walk to the marina from here..and I have nothing but time. However my health is pretty bad. I just don’t know if I could handle it all alone. I’m thinking maybe a 25-30 foot cruiser. Thanks again sir!! I look forward to reading your other articles. Sincerely, Gary Heaton Olcott, Ny

Thanks a million! First time I come across an article that complete and with so much effort. For people thinking about buying a boat the info you provide is priceless.

John Callahan

Good information, but any article on prices should have a date associated with it. I see no indication of when this article was posted.

Thank you so much for this well done article. We’re looking at getting a boat and you’ve answered questions we didn’t even know we had.

Awesome article good job i am from Slovenia and thinking about buyng sailboat and sail for 6 monhs per year.I hawe bean looking on Holland sites too buy one can i maybe find auctions too buy a sailingboat i bawe wach Troswijk but they do t hawe any up ther?

Many of the costs quoted look very low to me, especially in the first article. Was this written a long time ago?

Excellent article. Am wondering though how do I dispose of a used boat if I get tired of it and can’t sell it or possibly run it aground. Maybe a 40 ft sloop?

Chris Kenny

Thanks for this infor.

Peace sailing.

Benjamin Sklar

Extremely helpful and interesting article! Thank you!

John Wallace

This is the most accurate information I have ever seen about boat ownership costs.

Many thanks!!!!

Leave a comment

You may also like, how much does it cost to dock a boat for a year.

Before buying your first boat you probably want to know how much it will cost you each year. So did I, so I checked hundreds of slips, and here are the numbers I …

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25 Sailboats Under 40′

• By Cruising World Staff
• Updated: March 25, 2014

Catalina 275 Sport

“This is a complete package; it’s a good sailing boat and well-thought-out. It’s definitely ready for prime time,” says Boat of the Year judge Ed Sherman. Click here to read why the Catalina 275 Sport won Best Pocket Cruiser in 2014.

Beneteau First 30

As they approached the First 30 to conduct their dockside evaluation during the boat show, the BOTY judges may have been just a little skeptical of this performance-oriented 30-footer’s cruisability. But that skepticism turned into appreciation as soon as they stepped below, and they were downright enamored with how the boat sailed. Click here to read why the Beneteau First 30 won Best Small Cruiser, 20 feet and Under in 2011.

The Presto 30 is an innovative, well-built, good looking cruising boat that satisfied its stated design brief as well as any other boat the judges looked at, though it’s not what you might expect from an average cruising boat. Cruising World judges also noted that this easy-to-handle boat may attract new sailors to the sport so they can learn the ropes and then trade up to another model, an approach that’s important to the health of the entire industry. Click here to read how the Presto 30 won the Cruising Spirit Award in 2011.

Catalina 309

“I think that for the purpose it was put on the water, to be able to walk down, jump aboard, and simply go enjoy it on a weekend, the boat not only hit the price in terms of value but also hit the mark in terms of use,” remarked judge Alvah Simon, a world voyager. Click to read why the Catalina 309 won Domestic Boat of the Year for 2007 .

The J/95’s retractable centerboard and dual rudders make it possible to sail in just 3 feet of water. During our dockside visit, designer Rod Johnstone told us that he wanted to build a comfortable coastal cruiser that could keep people sailing by providing “high performance in shallow water,” and the J/95 did exactly what Rod said it would. Click here to read how it won Best Weekender and Domestic Boat of the Year for 2010.

Catalina 315

This nifty pocket cruiser raises the Catalina quality bar with more comfort and better performance. It’s the little things that make this boat special, including the tall rig, the wide cockpit, the large anchor locker, the sprit for the asymmetric kite, and the clever use of space below. Click here to read how the Catalina 315 won Best Inshore Cruiser for 2013.

The Delphia 33 is a boat that’s maximized every inch of available space, and the overall fit and finish, from the joiner work to the systems installation to the structural integrity of the boat, is well done. Click here to read why the Delphia 33 won Import Boat of the Year in 2008.

“With this introductory cruiser, Hunter is trying to bring people up through its ranks and into cruising from trailer-sailers and smaller boats,” said Alvah Simon. “And the company has done that with a 33-footer that has quality and affordability but is still manageable and unintimidating.” Click here to read why the Hunter e33 won Best Compact Cruiser for 2012.

C&C 101

The 33-foot C&C 101 boasts thoroughly modern lines and a nice turn of speed but also features a fine layout belowdecks, with cherry furniture and a teak cabin sole. Click here to read why the C&C 101 won Domestic Boat of the Year and Best Performance Cruiser in 2013.

This dual-purpose cruiser is both easy to handle and zippy on the racecourse. Click here to read why the X-34 won Best Racer-Cruiser for 2009.

Beneteau 34

This affordable performance cruiser is a blast to sail, with details often lacking on more expensive boats. Click here to read a boat review of the Beneteau 34. Click here to read why the Beneteau 34 won the award for Best Value in 2009.

Tartan 3400

The Tartan 3400, with double cabins fore and aft, was still sufficiently nimble and distinctive to cop the 2006 Boat of the Year award for Best Production Cruiser from 31 to 36 Feet. Click here to read more.

The BOTY judges found lots on which to agree as they proclaimed the Najad 355 to be the Best Small Cruiser of 2008: great sails, solid motion through the water, practical interior, well-laid-out deck. Click here to read more.

Catalina 355

Two themes—consideration and principles—epitomize the Catalina 355. Click here to read why it won Domestic Boat of the Year in 2011.

Sabre Spirit

Andrew Burton found the 36-foot Sabre Spirit boat not only easily handled and fast but also a sheer delight to sail; no wonder it won the Judges’ Choice Award in Cruising World’s 2008 Boat of the Year contest. Click here to read more .

Island Packet Estero

Comfortable surroundings are easily driven by a fully self-tending and roller-furling rig on the 36-foot Island Packet Estero. Click here to read why it won Best Midsize Cruiser Under 40 feet in 2010.

Hallberg-Rassy 37

Like the Swedes who manufacture it, the Hallberg-Rassy 37 is a hardy sailer. The boat’s seakindly performance gives the assurance that it can take you anywhere, and once you get aboard, that’s exactly where you’ll want to go. Click here to read why it won Import Boat of the Year in 2006.

Malö 37 Classic

This purpose-built craft is a dream to steer and a delight to the eyes. Click here to read how it won Import Boat of the Year for 2009. Click here to read a full boat review.

Catalina 375

Solid construction and thoughtful amenities make life onboard this boat more comfortable. Click here to read why the Catalina 375 won Best All-Purpose Cruiser, 30 to 40 Feet in 2009.

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 379

This midsize offering from Jeanneau has a modern look and is ready for sea. Click here to read why it won Domestic Boat of the Year and Best Midsize Cruiser for 2012.

“This very responsive sailboat scoots along quite nicely, I think as well as anything we sailed in this fleet,” says Boat of the Year judge Mark Schrader. Click here to read why the Dehler 38 won Best Cruising Sailboat Under 38 Feet in 2014.

Better-than-expected performance, good design ideas, and follow-through in their execution led to the Hunter 38 winning Best Production Cruiser Under 40 feet for 2005. Click here to read more.

Who says a cruising cat under 40 feet isn’t big enough for comfortable accommodations? The 38’s hulls are narrow where they meet the water for performance purposes but flare out to create ample interior space. Click here to read why the Leopard 38 won Import Boat of the Year in 2010.

Seawind 1160

This 38-foot cat will appeal to cruisers who want a well-built boat that can sail away in a hurry. Click here to read why the Seawind 1160 won Best Multihull Cruiser and Most Innovative Boat for 2007.

“The company is mixing traditional aesthetics with modern gear–from the carbon rudder to tweakers on the jib tracks, and it works really well,” said Boat of the Year judge Steve Callahan of the Sabre 386. Click here to read why it was named Domestic Boat of the Year for 2005.

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Better Sailing

Best Sailboats Under 40 Feet

About five thousand years ago, the Egyptians built sailing ships to navigate the Nile River. Extensive export and import networks started through this and developed international trading routes. Nowadays, sailboats are mainly used for recreational purposes. Sailboats come in a wide range of sizes, from the record-breaking 42-inch yacht up to the 470 feet ‘Sailing Yacht A’, which is the largest in the world. However, I believe that a 30-40 feet sailboat is the best size for a cruising sailboat because sailboats in that category provide the best of everything. They are large enough for bluewater and weekend sailing, liveaboard, and even ocean crossings if built appropriately. This article will look at the 10 best sailboats under 40 feet from around the world.

Obviously, this is a somewhat problematic and unfair comparison because we compare sailboats from 40k all the way up to 400k. For that reason, I tried to be as impartial as possible and include something for everyone. It doesn’t matter if you are looking for a luxury sailboat for your summer vacation or an affordable bluewater cruising sailboat to liveaboard; this list has got you covered. s

Here Are Some Of The Best Sailboats Under 40 Feet

Beneteau Oceanis 40

Price: Used From $80k to $200k

Overall Length: 39.86 Feet

The Beneteau Oceanis 40 is a beautiful sailing yacht. The most popular layout of this model comes with three cabins and two WCs, which makes it perfect for groups of up to 6 guests. This is one of Beneteau’s more popular sailboats ever, with many offers boats available on the used market for sale. She is 39.86 ft long, and it comes with a fin keel. For that reason, this is a fast and easy to handle and maneuver sailboat but not great for ocean crossing and passage making. The Beneteau Oceanis 40 is also great to be used as a liveaboard sailboat under 40 feet because it is comfortable, sails great, and has large big enough fuel, water, and holding tanks. It comes with a Yanmar diesel engine with 40 horsepower, but that is pretty typical for a sailboat that size, so don’t expect to win any races.

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats Under 100k

Price: Used From $200k to $400k

Overall Length: 39′ Feet 4″ Inches

The Dufour 390 represents a perfect match between sailing performance, easy handling, and comfort. Hulls with softened and raised bilge strake, optimized deck plan to take full advantage of your sailing and stopovers. The Dufour 390 stands out as the most well-rounded sailboat under 40 feet. It is a lavishly equipped sailboat with extraordinary style, finished down to the last detail but the best materials on the market.

This Dufour model is an excellent choice for those who love cruising. Like all the designs by this brand, it also offers sailing performance. The Dufour 390 was named European Yacht of the Year in the Family Cruiser category. It is offered in two layout versions with 2 cabins or 3 cabins with two bathrooms; the interiors are cared for and finished with LED lights, USB sockets, and a 40-liter boiler making it a great choice for a liveaboard sailboat under 40 feet.

Beneteau Oceanis 38.1

Price: Used From $60,000, Up To $300,000 New

Overall Length : 37.7 Feet

This is another model being built since the ’90s. Of course, it has been redesigned and evolved over the years to offer more modern looks and higher levels of comfort as accustomed with modern sailboats, but she has remained a great yacht. She is also fast and handles well thanks to her fin keel with and dual rudders. There are many of these sailboats for sale on the used market, with the most popular layout option being with 2 cabins and 1 head. 

The Oceanis 38.1 combines useful features, great sailing performance, and style on the under-40-feet category, where function frequently supersedes personalization. Also, her hull offers a surprising cruising comfort. Her rigidity under sail of the Oceanis 38.1 takes her further and faster, with exceptional stability despite her kin keel. It is a real pleasure to have two steering wheels, a mainsail arch, and a spacious swim platform for a sailboat under 40 feet (only on the newer model after 2017).

>>Also Read: Best Sailboat Brands

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349

Price: Used From $90k to $250k

Overall Length: 33′ Feet 11″ Inches

The Sun Odyssey 349 is a French sailboat that was designed for cruising and first built in 2014, offering a great combination of speed, comfort, and safety. This sailboat is built by Jeanneau in France and in the United States from 2014 and is still in production. Also, the 349 has a remarkably spacious interior for a sailboat her size, with its most popular layout coming with 3 double cabins suitable for families or groups of up to 6 people. Aboard, you can also find a bathroom, spacious saloon, and galley. Personally, I believe that the Sun Odyssey 349 is a bit small for a liveaboard. Still, I have met people living aboard smaller boats than this one. 

The Sun Odyssey 349 can be easily managed by a crew of two or even singlehanded, owing this to her smaller size and lighter weight. She sails well and continues along the brand’s philosophy of building quick and nimble cruising yachts providing entertaining yet safe sailing.

Also, the boat comes with a Yanmar diesel engine of 21 horsepower suitable for docking and maneuvering. Lastly, the fresh water tank has a capacity of 54 US Gallons, the fuel tank of 34 US Gallons, and the wastewater holding tank of 22 US Gallons.

Price: Used From $30k to $120k

Overall Length: 35.92 ft

The Hunter 36 is an American-Made sailboat designed as a cruising sailboat and first built in 1980. Newer versions of this boat are still being made today. It is a Bilge Keel boat and is a good example of how a well-built quick cruising sailboat should be built. Despite the useful bilge keels, this beautiful family cruising sailboat has a good turn of speed and an excellent ability to explore creeks and dry out. The Hunter 36 has an extra-wide beam spanning nearly the entire length of the boat to maximize both headroom and interior accommodations.

Also, her large cockpit gives you loads of room when sailing and lots of comforts when you are ready to sit back and relax. The most popular layout design features two double cabins, one forward and one aft, and a head with a shower. If you are a cruising couple looking for an affordable liveaboard sailboat under 40 feet, you should definitely take a look at this one. 

Catalina 36

Price: Used From $30k to $150k

Overall Length: 35.58 ft

This is another very popular sailboat from a very popular brand, especially in the US. The Catalina 36 is an American-made sailboat designed by Frank Butler and Gerry Douglas for cruising and was first built in 1982. This sailboat version was introduced in 1994 and produced until 2005, when it was replaced by the Catalina 375. Catalina made over 2,300 of these boats, many of which are on sale today for very affordable prices.

This sailboat is a very fast and seaworthy family cruiser with a spacious cockpit that can easily be used singlehanded since all trim lines and halyards lead to the cockpit. The fin keel and spade rudder allow for easy maneuverability in tight marinas; however, it does not make a great boat for offshore bluewater cruising and passage-making.

The interior space is lovely, with high-quality materials and teak carpentry throughout. Also, thanks to its big U-shaped galley, two-burner natural gas stove and oven, large stainless steel sink, a spacious top-loading refrigerator, plenty of counter space, and generous storage make the Catalina 36 an excellent option for a liveaboard sailboat.

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats Under 30 Feet

Bavaria Cruiser 37

Price: Used From $60k to $220k

Overall Length: 37 Feet 1 Inches

The Cruiser 37 is a series sailing yacht from the German manufacturer Bavaria Yachtbau. It is a cruising sailboat for sailors who like to move fast through the water but also seek a high level of comfort for their vacation. On the inside, the Cruiser 37 seems bigger than you would expect from a sailboat under 40 feet with more storage spaces that one could think it would also work as a liveaboard. This is a very popular sailboat that Bavaria started building in the early 2000s’ and is still being produced. 

There are two versions of the keel; a shallow keel with a 5 Feet draft and a normal version with a 6 feet draft. There is also a standard version with two cabins that sleep 4 people and a charter version with three cabins that sleep 6.

In the saloon, you will find the L-shaped galley on the starboard side. This is followed by the seating bench with the saloon table. Opposite to port is also a seating assembly, the third seat of which can be pulled out. If it is lowered, you can sit in front of a navigation table. This should create space for six people in the saloon.

>>Also Read: Best Pocket Cruisers Under 20 Feet

Price: Used From $25k to $250k

Overall Length: 35 Feet

The Dehler 34 was first introduced in 1986. The boat’s overall length is 35 feet and 1.2 inches and costs from $50,000 to $250,000 depending on the built year. This boat was an awardee of the “Best Performance Cruiser” in the “Boat of the Year” (BOTY) contest in 2017. The Dehler 34 sets high standards with its interior space and built quality. It has a spacious living area for liveaboards, a pull-out bar, premium lighting, and an elegant ambiance to indulge you throughout your cruise. The Dehler 34 showcases generous headroom, tank sizes and offers an outstanding sailing performance.

Designed by a naval- architecture consortium- Judel/Vrolijk, the Dehler 34 is sturdy, stable, and strong, making sailing safer and letting you sail higher into the wind. However, the Dehler 34 comes with a fin keel, which doesn’t make it ideal for passage making. There is a long argument to be had here, but I prefer bluewater sailboats to have full keels.

>>Also Read: Best Small Full Keel Sailboats To Sail Around The World

Alerion Sport 30

Price: Around 250k New

Overall Length: 30 Feet

Alerion yachts have a classic, graceful design that features varnished teak, oval ports, and lovely deck overhangs with a modern underbody. The more recent 30 feet Alerion Sport 30 features a faster, lighter, technology-laden boat. It sells for about $236,500. The Alerion Sport 30 is the first Alerion sailboat with a carbon-fiber bowsprit option, which keeps the construction lightweight but robust, enhancing its performance. Even with all these advanced features, the Alerion Sport 30 is unbelievably easy to sail. This timeless beauty offers sitting headroom with an open berth and a spacious cockpit that can seat 3-4 people. All in all, the Sport 30 is an adequately equipped sailboat with deluxe comfort and experience for all sailors. 

Price: Used From $125k to $200k

Overall Length: 34 Feet

Hanse 348 is a 34-foot sailboat with a price tag of about $200,000. It won the award of the “Boat of the Year” in 2019. With a higher rig and a sportier sail plan, Hanse 348 is packed with excellent performance. It offers fast cruising without compromising the sailor’s comfortable sail experience. This boat showcases a clutter-free deck with beautiful woodwork, giving it a wholesome elegant look. Below the deck, you can find three double cabins with a generous amount of windows. The windows offer ample lighting and creating a sun-filled lounge. With an abundance of space for a large crew, you get the opportunity to have a great time staying on the water.

Also Read: Best Liveaboard Sailboats

Final Thoughts

These sailboats under 40 feet offer different features to different sailors, but all of them tick some essential boxes. They are built with the best and high-quality materials. All of them are seaworthy to help you enjoy your time on her, whether liveaboard full-time or offshore bluewater sailing. With the perfect sailboat, you can experience unparalleled peace and comfort while sailing through the waters.

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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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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