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Aluminum Sailboat Mast & Boom Extrusion

U.S. Spars --->

U.S. Spars is your source for Z-Spars for Masts, Booms, Rigging, and all associated hardware

“ Sailing starts with U.S. Spars”

U.S. Spars is part of Z-Spars Group in France, the World’s Largest Spar Builders. Z-Spars has been supplying the sailing world with quality products since 1973. US Spars supplies quality brands like Hunter, Beneteau, Com-Pac and Performance Cruising. We would be happy to quote your mast, boom, and rigging needs.

US Spars takes pride in excellent customer service for Business or Individual customers. Please take advantage of our online ordering and fast shipping for all of your small part needs using our easy to use boat look-up to find your boat model and view a diagram with part numbers for easy ordering. For quotes on special orders please use our easy to use quote page for a speedy response.

U.S. Spars looks forward to getting you back on the water!

Questions? – send us an email at  [email protected]  or  [email protected]

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Our wooden masts and spars are made with the same uncompromising quality and attention to detail as our oars and paddles. We have made hundreds of masts and spars for boats as small as nutshell prams, for many Herreshoff designs, and numerous larger boats like Concordia yawls. Due to our shop size, 50 feet is our maximum length.

We offer solid and hollow masts in a variety of cross-sections. We typically require the original naval architects drawings or your old mast, but can assist you in dimensioning the mast if the aforementioned items are unavailable to you.

Most of our masts and spars are constructed from select Eastern red spruce. Ideal for mast making, it has the highest strength to weight ratio of all North American softwoods. We also offer Sitka spruce and Douglas fir as options.

Please call us to discuss your mast and spar needs.

Unfortunately, because of its length, this product cannot be shipped through our Online Store. Please call 800-240-4867 to place your order.

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How to Size Your Oars

To determine the correct length oar for your boat measure the distance between the port and starboard oar sockets. Then apply the Shaw and Tenney oar length formula to determine the oar length that will provide the correct 7:18 leverage ratio. This length will provide an oar where 7/25 the length is inboard of the oarlocks and 18/25 of the oar is outboard of the oarlocks. It is the ideal ratio to row almost all boats. Sized correctly, when rowing your hands will be 1 to 3 inches apart and you will be pulling directly towards your abdomen. If you are popping out of your oarlocks when rowing your oars are far too short. If you prefer an overlapping grip, add 6” to the calculated oar length. If you have more than one rowing station in your boat, measure both. Typically they will require two different length oars which is fine if you’re going to be rowing tandem and need two sets. Otherwise you’ll need to compromise the correct length to work properly in both stations. If you are rowing more than 75% in one station size the oar to that length. As always feel free to call us and were happy to help you select the correct oar length and blade style for your boat.

The Original Shaw & Tenney Oar Length Formula

To help our customers size their oars correctly, we’ve been using the same formula since 1858: Measure the distance between the center of the port and starboard oar sockets, which hold the oar locks on each gunnel. This is called the “span” between the oarlocks. Divide the span by 2, and then add 2 to this number. The result is called the “inboard loom length” of the oar. Multiply the loom length by 25, and then divide that number by 7. The result is the proper oar length in inches. Round up or down to the closest 6” increment.

How to Size Your Paddle

For traditional wooden paddles the ideal length for the Stern paddler is the bridge of your nose or 6 inches less than your height. For the bow paddler the paddle reaching the cleft of your chin or 9 inches less than your height is correct.

For our Racine paddle if you are over 5’6” tall select the 63-1/2” length and the shorter paddle if you are under5’-6”tall.

When paddling solo we typically recommend a bow length paddle. For Canadian style solo most paddlers prefer an even shorter paddle.

For paddling canoes when standing (yes our mother let us do this) a 69 inch or 72 inch paddle is usually about right.

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10 Best Small Sailboats (Under 20 Feet)

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

Compact, easy to trailer, simple to rig, easy to maintain and manage, and affordable, the best small boats all have one thing in common: they offer loads of fun while out there on the water.

So whether you're on a budget or just looking for something that can offer ultimate daytime rides without compromising on safety, aesthetic sensibilities, alternate propulsion, and speed, the best small sailboats under 20 feet should be the only way to go.

Let's be brutally honest here; not everyone needs a 30-foot sailboat to go sailing. They come with lots of features such as electronics, entertainment, refrigeration, bunks, a galley, and even a head. But do you really need all these features to go sailing? We don't think so.

All you need to go sailing is a hull, a mast, rudder, and, of course, a sail. And whether you refer to them as daysailers, trailerable sailboats , a weekender sailboat, or pocket cruisers, there's no better way to enjoy the thrills of coastal sailing than on small sailboats.

There are a wide range of small boats measuring less than 20 feet available in the market. These are hot products in the market given that they offer immense thrills out on the sea without the commitment required to cruise on a 30-footer. A small sailboat will not only give you the feel of every breeze but will also give you the chance to instantly sense every change in trim.

In this article, we'll highlight 10 best small sailboats under 20 feet . Most models in this list are time-tested, easy to rig, simple to sail, extremely fun, and perfect either for solo sailing or for sailing with friends and family. So if you've been looking for a list of some of the best small sailboats , you've come to the right place.

So without further ado, let's roll on.

Table of contents

{{boat-info="/boats/hunter-15"}}

The Marlow-Hunter 15 is not only easy to own since it's one of the most affordable small sailboats but also lots of fun to sail. This is a safe and versatile sailboat for everyone. Whether you're sailing with your family or as a greenhorn, you'll love the Hunter 15 thanks to its raised boom, high freeboard, and sturdy FRP construction.

With high sides, a comfortable wide beam, a contoured self-bailing cockpit, and fiberglass construction, the Hunter 15 is certainly designed with the novice sailor in mind. This is why you can do a lot with this boat without falling out, breaking it, or capsizing. Its contoured self-baiting cockpit will enable you to find a fast exit while its wide beam will keep it steady and stable no matter what jibes or weight shifts happen along the way.

This is a small sailboat that can hold up to four people. It's designed to give you a confident feeling and peace of mind even when sailing with kids. It's easy to trailer, easy to rig, and easy to launch. With a price tag of about $10k, the Hunter 15 is a fun, affordable, and versatile boat that is perfect for both seasoned sailors and novices. It's a low-maintenance sailboat that can be great for teaching kids a thing or two about sailing.

Catalina 16.5

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

Catalina Yachts are synonymous with bigger boats but they have some great and smaller boats too such as Catalina 16.5. This is one of the best small sailboats that are ideal for family outings given that it has a big and roomy cockpit, as well as a large storage locker. Designed with a hand-laminated fiberglass sloop, the Catalina 16.5 is versatile and is available in two designs: the centerboard model and the keel model.

The centerboard model is designed with a powerful sailplane that remains balanced as a result of the fiberglass centerboard, the stable hull form, and the rudder. It also comes with a tiller extension, adjustable hiking straps, and adjustable overhaul. It's important to note that these are standard equipment in the two models.

As far as the keel model is concerned, this is designed with a high aspect keel as the cast lead and is attached with stainless steel keel bolts, which makes this model perfect for mooring or docking whenever it's not in use. In essence, the centerboard model is perfect if you'll store it in a trailer while the keel model can remain at the dock.

All in all, the Catalina 16.5 is one of the best small sailboats that you can get your hands on for as low as $10,000. This is certainly a great example of exactly what a daysailer should be.

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

There's no list of small, trailerable, and fun sailboats that can be complete without the inclusion of the classic Hobie 16. This is a durable design that has been around and diligently graced various waters across the globe since its debut way back in 1969 in Southern California. In addition to being durable, the Hobie 16 is trailerable, great for speed, weighs only 320 pounds, great for four people, and more importantly, offers absolute fun.

With a remarkable figure of over 100,000 launched since its debut, it's easy to see that the Hobie 16 is highly popular. Part of this popularity comes from its asymmetric fiberglass-and-foam sandwiched hulls that include kick-up rudders. This is a great feature that allows it to sail up to the beach.

For about $12,000, the Hobie 16 will provide you with endless fun throughout the summer. It's equipped with a spinnaker, trailer, and douse kit. This is a high-speed sailboat that has a large trampoline to offer lots of space not just for your feet but also to hand off the double trapezes.

Montgomery 17

{{boat-info="/boats/montgomery-17"}}

Popularly known as the M-17, The Montgomery 17 was designed by Lyle C. Hess in conjunction with Jerry Montgomery in Ontario, California for Montgomery Boats. Designed either with keel or centerboard models, the M-17 is more stable than most boats of her size. This boat is small enough to be trailered but also capable of doing moderate offshore passages.

This small sailboat is designed with a masthead and toe rail that can fit most foresails. It also has enough space for two thanks to its cuddly cabin, which offers a sitting headroom, a portable toilet, a pair of bunks, a DC power, and optional shore, and a proper amount of storage. That's not all; you can easily raise the deck-stepped mast using a four-part tackle.

In terms of performance, the M-17 is one of the giant-killers out there. This is a small sailboat that will excel in the extremes and make its way past larger boats such as the Catalina 22. It glides along beautifully and is a dog in light air, though it won't sail against a 25-knot wind, which can be frustrating. Other than that, the Montgomery 17 is a great small sailboat that can be yours for about $14,000.

Norseboat 17.5

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

As a versatile daysailer, Norseboat 17.5 follows a simple concept of seaworthiness and high-performance. This small sailboat perfectly combines both contemporary construction and traditional aesthetics. Imagine a sailboat that calls itself the "Swiss Army Knife of Boats!" Well, this is a boat that can sail and row equally well.

Whether you're stepping down from a larger cruiser or stepping up from a sea kayak, the unique Norseboat 17.5 is balanced, attractive, and salty. It has curvaceous wishbone gaff, it is saucy, and has a stubby bow-sprit that makes it attractive to the eyes. In addition to her beauty, the Norseboat 17.5 offers an energy-pinching challenge, is self-sufficient, and offers more than what you're used to.

This is a small, lightweight, low-maintenance sailboat that offers a ticket to both sailing and rowing adventures all at the same time. At about 400 pounds, it's very portable and highly convenient. Its mainsails may look small but you'll be surprised at how the boat is responsive to it. With a $12,500 price tag, this is a good small sailboat that offers you the versatility to either row or sail.

{{boat-info="/boats/sage-marine-sage-17"}}

If you've been looking for a pocket cruiser that inspires confidence, especially in shoal water, look no further than the Sage 17. Designed by Jerry Montgomery in 2009, the Sage 17 is stable and should heel to 10 degrees while stiffening up. And because you want to feel secure while sailing, stability is an integral feature of the Sage 17.

This is a sailboat that will remain solid and stable no matter which part of the boat you stand on. Its cabin roof and the balsa-cored carbon-fiber deck are so strong that the mast doesn't require any form of compression post. The self-draining cockpit is long enough and capable of sleeping at 6 feet 6 inches.

The Sage 17 may be expensive at $25k but is a true sea warrior that's worth look at. This is a boat that will not only serve you right but will also turn heads at the marina.    

{{boat-info="/boats/laserperformance-laser-sb3"}}

Having been chosen as the overall boat of the year for 2008 by the Sailing World Magazine, the Laser SB3 is one of the coolest boats you'll ever encounter. When sailing upwind, this boat will lock into the groove while its absolute simplicity is legendary. In terms of downwind sailing, having this boat will be a dream come true while it remains incredibly stable even at extraordinary speed.

Since its debut in 2004, the Laser SB3 has surged in terms of popularity thanks to the fact that it's designed to put all the controls at your fingertips. In addition to a lightweight mast, its T- bulb keel can be hauled and launched painlessly. For about $18,000, the Laser SB3 ushers you into the world of sports sailing and what it feels to own and use a sports boat.

{{boat-info="/boats/fareast-18"}}

As a manufacturer, Fareast is a Chinese boat manufacturer that has been around for less than two decades. But even with that, the Fareast 18 remains a very capable cruiser-racer that will take your sailing to the next level. In addition to its good looks, this boat comes with a retractable keel with ballast bulb, a powerful rig, and an enclosed cabin.

Its narrow design with a closed stern may be rare in sailboats of this size, but that's not a problem for the Fareast 18. This design not only emphasizes speed but also makes it a lot easier to maintain this boat. Perfect for about 6 people, this boat punches above its weight. It's, however, designed to be rigged and launched by one person.

This is a relatively affordable boat. It's agile, safe, well-thought-out, well built, and very sporty.

{{boat-info="/boats/chuck-paine-paine-14"}}

If you're in the market looking for a small sailboat that offers contemporary performance with classic beauty, the Paine 14 should be your ideal option. Named after its famous designer, Chuck Paine, this boat is intentionally designed after the classic Herreshoff 12.5 both in terms of dimensions and features.

This is a lightweight design that brings forth modern fin keel and spade rudder, which makes it agile, stable, and faster. The Paine 14 is built using cold-molded wood or west epoxy. It has varnished gunnels and transoms to give it an old-time charm. To make it somehow modern, this boat is designed with a carbon mast and a modern way to attach sails so that it's ready to sail in minutes.

You can rest easy knowing that the Paine 14 will not only serve you well but will turn heads while out there.

{{boat-info="/boats/wd-schock-lido-14"}}

Many sailors will attest that their first sailing outing was in a Lido 14. This is a classic sailboat that has been around for over four decades and still proves to be a perfect match to modern small boats, especially for those still learning the ropes of sailing.

With seating for six people, the Lido 14 can be perfect for solo sailing , single-handed sailing, or if you're planning for shorthanded sailing. While new Lido 14 boats are no longer available, go for a functional used Lido 14 and you'll never regret this decision. It will serve you well and your kids will probably fall in love with sailing if Lido 14 becomes their main vessel during weekends or long summer holidays.

Bottom Line

There you have it; these are some of the best small sailboats you can go for. While there are endless small sailboats in the market, the above-described sailboat will serve you right and make you enjoy the wind.

Choose the perfect sailboat, invest in it, and go out there and have some good fun!

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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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Sunfish, Spar Bag, 87132

The Sunfish Spar bag is a durable bag designed to store and protect Sunfish spars. The Sunfish spar ..

• The Sunfish is the most popular boat ever produced!
• Great for both casual sailing and racing. Explore lakes, bays, even oceans.
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• We offer customization options you won't find anywhere else!
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AeroSouth, FS Wood Rigged Rudder, Sunfish, FS-RDD-BLD-FOR-RIG

Improve the speed and handling of your Sunfish Sailboat with the fully rigged FS Rudder Blade. Made ..

AeroSouth, Sabre Daggerboard, Sunfish, SBR-DGG-FOR-SNF

Improve the speed and handling of your Sunfish Sailboat with a Sabre Daggerboard. Made of laminated ..

AeroSouth, Sunfish Dinghy Bob, DNG-BOB

Dinghy Bob prevents your small sailboat from turning-turtle and getting its mast or spar stuck in th..

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) to replace a broken one, See , below.
If you need a complete Mast or Boom Assembly for a new boat or for your current one, See

If you require items listed on-site, please forward a sketch or photo with measurements and full details of the part, including Manufacturer, application, boat type and year. See , , , and for more specific fittings.

- Masts, Booms & Related Hardware
You can find the Spar Parts you need by one of three methods: If you need an exact replacement Spar or part for an existing Spar, the easiest way to find it is by identifying the Manufacturer of the Spar. If you know who built your Spars, click on the manufacturer. The world's most popular Spar Builders are listed below, and have their own pages listed on-site. If you need a replacement Spar Part that is specific to a particular Spar Section, but are unable to determine the Manufacturer of your Spar, See . , those not specific to any particular Spar Section, A small selection of common boats and One-Design Classes have few enough variations to allow their own pages.
Click on individual manufacturers, below, for Spar Section and Hardware details.
	(Z-Diffusion)
If you need a replacement Spar, or Spar Part that is specific to a particular Spar Section, but are unable to determine the Manufacturer of your Spar, See .
Rig-Rite stocks a large selection of Spar Parts. - those not specific to any particular Spar Section -
Mast & Spreader Lights Mainsail Gates & Stops Winch Pads	- , &
(most anything that attaches to the inner or outer Spar profile) you must first identify the specific that the Part attaches to. If you know the manufacturer of your Spars, simply click on the name of the Sparbuilder, above. Section profiles and measurements are provided in each case to help you identify your specific Spar Sections. If you don't know who built your Spars, check the Sparbuilders above. It is likely your Spars were built by one of them. Most Spar Builders put labels on their masts (usually at about eye level when standing on deck), and many have their logo or part numbers cast or stamped in their castings and boom end fittings. we can do so if you forward a tracing or photo of the Section and its . Frequent changes in boat models, constant design improvements, and numerous other variations, on your boat. .
We now have technical data and descriptions of most common Spar Sections and Replacement Parts on-site. We also stock many less common items not listed here. If a part you require is listed on-site, please forward a sketch and a complete description of the part, or its nearest equivalent on the website, and its measurements, including which Mast, Boom, or Spreader Section the part attaches to, as well as boat model. If you don't know which Spar Sections you have, See , above. , above. , you will need Part Numbers. contact us with complete details. Frequent changes in boat models, constant design improvements, and numerous other variations, on your boat. are about your existing Mast, Boom, or Spreaders, (See , above.) including boat model, length, and year of manufacture. See , you will need Part Numbers.

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For Sale "sailboats" in San Diego

• ISLANDER $28,900 NATIONAL CITY
• 54 ft sail boat in Croatia for rent with captain and maid $3,000 ESCONDIDO
• 1979 C&L 36 sailboat $13,000 San Diego
• 14.2 Capri Sail boat and trailer $1,000 San Diego
• 40' sailboat project $1 Vista
• Gorgeous Custom 1979 O’Day 37’ Center Cockpit $28,000 San Diego
• 1984 Hunter 31 Sailboat $35,500 San Diego
• 1987 Beneteau First 235 Sailboat $5,000 El Cajon
• Nice Clean Sabot Lots Of Good Parts Cheap Missing Mast $275 San diego
• 24’ North American Sail Boat $2,500 Encinitas
• Hobie Adventure Island Sailing Trimaran Kayak W Mirage Pedal Drive $2,250 San diego
• 1976 gary mull "IOR" 1/4 tonner $2,200 s.bay san diego
• TAYANA SLOOP $159,000 NATIONAL CITY CALIFORNIA
• Catalina 30 Sailboat Diesel Trailer avail $6,500 Vista
• 31 Mariner ketch $5 Chula Vista
• Cal 34’ Sailboat $18,000 San Diego
• Spinnaker poles and boom $200 San Diego
• 1982 Islander 30 sloop $7,500 San Diego
• Tayana 37 1978 Cutter (Puerto Peñasco) $65,000 Puerto Peñasco
• 27 foot Sparkman and Stevens designed masthead sloop in Oceanside. $20,000 Oceanside
• Catalina 30 Sailboat Diesel on Trailer - FIRM $6,500 Vista
• Compac 16 Cuddy keel sailboat with trailer $2,900 Vista
• 2007 Schock Lido 14 Sailboat $4,900 san diego
• Force 5 sailboats $1,000 Lemon Grove
• Lightning Sailboat $999 El Cajon
• Beautiful 36' Sailboat Transferable Slip $14,000 San Diego
• Catalina 30 Sailboat Diesel - Trailer avail- FIRM $6,500 Vista
• 1974 Catalina 27’ $3,000 Pacific Beach
• Beautiful sailboat Cal-30 $10,000 San Diego
• Catalina 27 $10,000 San Diego
• JUST REDUCED! 1993 COLUMBIA 50' VESSEL SHOWS PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP $84,900 Yacht Coast Yacht Sales
• 2018 Laser Sailboat ILCA 6 $5,500 city of san diego
• 2001 Compac 16 $5,000 San Diego
• Catalina 30 $7,500 Harbor Island West Marina
• REDUCED AGAIN --1/8 share of a 2004, Hunter 46' sailboat⚓ $6,500 Harbor Island, San Diego
• 2021 Yamaha Waverunner deluxe ex w trailer $9,000 El Cajon
• Highly Upgraded Coronado 30 $14,500 Shelter Island
• Pocket Cruiser Kent Ranger 26 $17,500 city of san diego
• Catalina 27 ** Priced to Sell $10,500 Safe Harbor Bayfront Marina, Chula Vista
• 2008 Sunfish $2,800 NW Tucson
• 1984 Laguna 30 $13,500 Chula Vista
• Nice small sailboat $995 Carlsbad
• 13” 1983 FJ $3,500 Pacific Beach
• 34’ Islander 1969 $17,900 Oceanside
• 34’ Islander 1969 w/ slip $32,990 Oceanside Harbor Slip
• 1960's Sabot $350 San Marcos
• Stainless steel Bimini frame and Bimini $500 Vista
• Sunfish sailboat - complete $1,250 Bay Park
• (REDUCED) 30' Catalina Sloop Great Starter Boat $13,500 CFB Marine San Diego
• 1995 Hunter 35.5 Legend $47,500 San Diego
• 26 foot 1974 pearson sailboat $9,000 SAN DIEGO
• Catalina 30 Sailboat Diesel on Trailer - FIRM $9,900 Vista
• Piver 34' AA Trimaran $10,000 north san diego county
• 2004 Beneteau 423 $135,000 YACHT COAST YACHT SALES
• 2015 Beneteau Oceanis 31 Platinum $109,000 YACHT COAST YACHT SALES
• 1980 Ericson 38' Tall Rig New Diesel Power $24,000 Chula Vista
• 1976 22' O'Day Shoal Keel Sloop $1,000 Mission Bay
• 2002 Hunter 356 w. Transferrable Slip in Monterey, CA $79,999 Monterey Harbor
• 30’ Ron Rawson Sailboat Sloop $9,950 Chula Vista
• 2 Person Kayak - Necky Amaruk $400 San Diego
• Hunter 420 Passage- 1/7 Share $6,000 Harbor Island
• 2009 Vanguard Nomad17' sailboat & trailer $3,800 city of san diego
• 58' sailing catamaran $195,000 Kingdom of Tonga
• Free Boat $1 Escondido
• Catalina 30 sailboat $14,900 Coronado
• WANTED 27-30ft Sailboat with Furling Main $999 San Diego
• HOBIE CAT PARTS $15 Penasquitos
• 41 foot Downeast Sailboat $39,000 National City
• Francesca D'elia Sea Channel Sailboats & Houses Painting 23.5" x 17.5" $80 Encinitas
• 1984 Catalina sailboat $6,300 San Diego
• 2016 Jeann349 $129,000 city of san diego
• GREAT ERICSON 38 $79,995 Shelter Island Drive
• Coronado 35 NEW PRICE $14,000 Chula Vista
• 13’ Catalina Yacht Sailboat (Laser) Good Condition $1,800 San Diego
• Sunset Sailing $180 Carlsbad
• 1981 KELLY PETERSON 44 SAILBOAT $89,000 Coronado
• Hylas 42 Cruising Sailboat! Excellent Condition $89,999 San Diego
• 1977 Down Easter 38 Sailboat For Sale! $19,000 San Diego
• 1977 Yamaha 25 ft sailboat $1,000 Dana marina
• JY 14 Sailboat $675 San Diego / Shelter Island
• Great Oceanside slip with Ericson 29' Tall Rig $30,990 Oceanside
• Lancer 30 Sailboat $1,900 San Diego
• Set of 3 Vintage Heavy Brass Sailboats Nautical Decoration $40 San Marcos
• Beautiful Ericson 27 Sailboat "Sunburst" $16,000 Point Loma
• Flying Dutchman Sailboat $16,000 city of san diego
• Original 1966 W. Crealock Excalibur 26’ w/slip $15,000 Oceanside
• 1984 Catalina 36 $34,900 San Diego
• 37' Cutter rigged sailboat $5,000 San Diego
• 1984 25FT CATALINA WING KEEL $12,500 OCEANSIDE CA
• 9ft Fatty Knees Sailing and Rowing Dinghy $2,750 city of san diego
• Beneteau First 24 SE (2021) - Excellent and immaculate condition $110,000 Moscow, Idaho, USA
• (SOLD) 35' Ericson Sloop Day Sailor Fresh Rebuilt Aux. $14,000 CFB Marine San Diego
• (REDUCED) 46' Ericson Racing Sloop Unique Opportunity! $19,000 CFB Marine San Diego
• (REDUCED) 50' Gulfstar Center Center Cockpit Ketch Available Now! $64,000 CFB Marine San Diego
• (REDUCED) 30' Catalina Sloop Cruiser Racer Family Fun! $13,900 CFB Marine San Diego
• Sailboat 14.2 Capri Catalina $2,500 Murrieta
• Sailboat - Sun Fish by Alcort $550 Lakeside
• 45' sailboat center cockpit ketch $12,000 San Diego
• Hobie Mirage Tandem Island 2017 $7,500 Chula Vista
• 1991 Vanguard Finn $3,500 Montana
• Ericson 28.5 Sailboat KEONA $15,000 San Diego Bay
• 1977 Catalina 27 $6,500 San Diego
• Laser International 14' $2,650 San Diego
• Choate 40 Racing Sailboat $14,900 Yacht coast yacht sales
• Cooper Yachts Maple Leaf 54 $98,999 Yacht Coast Yacht Sales, CA
• 1979 AMF Sunbird $2,250 city of san diego
• 30' S2 Center Cockpit 9.2 Sloop Yanmar Diesel Aux $18,500 CFB Marine San Diego
• Ohlson 35 Classic Sailboat $22,000 Marina Del Rey
• LASER SAILBOAT $2,999 city of san diego
• 27’ Catalina $10,000 San Diego
• Kettenburg Classic Sloop $27,272 San Diego
• Farrier F25-C Multihull Sailboat & Trailer $51,000 Covington, LA
• Ericson 29 Sailboat $5,500 National city
• Catalina 27 $5,000 San Diego
• Ericson 35 Price Reduced $10,000 San Diego, CA
• Turnkey Columbia 28 - Your new Getaway! $6,000 Chula Vista
• Nacra Inter 20 catamaran $9,999 Ramona
• 1986 Catalina 34 - Great starter boat! $22,000 Point Loma
• Islander 30 On Hold $0 San Diego
• Hunter Vision 36 Sloop (stanchionless) $45,000 Coronado
• 1979 Lancer 25 $2,000 San Bernardino
• Rebuilt jib for furler $250 city of san diego
• 37 Pearson Racing Sloop $23,000 San Carlos, MX
• Row/Sail Lowell Dory 14' $4,000 Coronado
• Win Downwind ! Rare 1989 X-119 by X-Yachts of Denmark ! $10,750 Seattle
• Sailboat Hunter 336 excellent condition $45,000 San Diego
• Dreadnought 32 $10,000 San Diego
• 2000 Catalina 250 sailboat $25,000 Mission bay
• Small 2 man sailboat, ready to sail $995 Carlsbad
• Hobie adventure islander $5,500 Newport Beach
• 52 columbia aft cabin $119,000 city of san diego
• 035 Coronado Sailboat $4,500 Shelter Island
• CAL Jensen 34 ft Sailboat $4,500 city of san diego
• 35 ft C&C Sailboat $9,750 solana beach
• Montgomery 23' Offshore trailerable sailboat $17,500 Mission Bay
• C&C Landfall 39 $38,000 Mission Bay
• Devoti D -One PRICE REDUCED $7,600 Sf bay area
• (SOLD) 37' Marlow-Hunter MH37 Sloop Cruiser Racer Very Clean! $172,500 CFB Marine San Diego
• Laser Sailboat $3,600 Oceanside
• Rare Sally Huss signed Art hotel del Coronado $350 Encinitas
• 92' Swiftships Commercial Research Exploration Salvage Harbor Options! $1,250,000 CFB Marine San Diego
• 32' Rinker Fiesta Vee 320 Express Cruiser with Upgrades $69,500 CFB Marine San Diego
• (REDUCED) 38' Bayliner 3870 Flybridge Motoryacht $39,500 CFB Marine San Diego
• Boatyard of old boats for sale! $1 Big Bear City, CA
• HUNTER 216 $6,500 San Diego / Shelter Island
• (NEW LISTING) 42' Sea Ray 420 Aft Cabin Sundeck CAT Diesels CLEAN $135,000 CFB Marine San Diego
• 32’ Clipper Marine Trailerable Sailboat $19,000 San Diego
• (REDUCED) 57' Carver Voyager Pilothouse Motoryacht Updated! $575,000 CFB Marine San Diego
• 30' Sea Ray Sedan Bridge Nice Shape Upgrades $46,000 CFB Marine San Diego
• (REDUCED) 62' Skipperliner Houseboat Cruiser Livaboard Condo! $135,000 CFB Marine San Diego
• (REDUCED) 39' Sea Ray 390 Express Cruiser Twin 3208 CAT Diesels! $42,500 CFB Marine San Diego
• (REDUCED) 29' Luhrs Open Express Fish Rigged NEW ENGINES! $29,000 CFB Marine San Diego
• (REDUCED) 34' Sea Ray 340 Sundancer Cruiser Condo Family Fun! $80,000 CFB Marine San Diego
• 28' Carver 2826 Mariner Cockpit Motoryacht $9,500 CFB Marine San Diego
• Sell/Trade..Rare, 1977 Mercedes 450SLC Sunroof, No Dents, Great Value $1,500 Fallbrook
• ITC OVAL BOAT SAILBOAT WINDOWS $60 EAST COUNTY
• 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan offered for possible Boat trade $0 San Diego and surrounding
• Islander 32 Sailboat $4,500 San Diego
• Triumph $30,000 Lakeside
• 2000 - 26 foot MacGregor sailboat $8,000 city of san diego
• Laser Mahogany Rudder, Tiller, Centerboard $200 OB
• Lehman 12 Sailboat Mast, Centerboard and $250 OB
• Nail Painting $10 Oceanside
• Spirit of Musashi signed & numbered print- Hisashi Otsuka $1,499 just east of Imperial Beach
• Various Pieces Wall Art and Mirror with Table $20 Hillcrest
• For Sailors $0 Carlsbad
• Sailboat Racing $10 Carlsbad
• Used Sails $450 Point Loma
• MX - Ray Sport sailboat $2,350 Bay Park
• Yamaha 9.9hp electric Start sail shaft 4 stroke outboard $1,500 Vista
• I need a video made of me playing my piano in trade for some sailing time $0 Carlsbad
• J-Class rc pond yacht boat $6,000 poway
• Boat Anchor: Lewmar 22 lb Galvanized Delta Anchor, Excellent Condition $100 Carmel Mountain Ranch
• Hobie adventure island sailboat $2,700 north san diego county
• LARGE STAINLESS ANCHOR ROLLER NEW $250 LAKESIDE CA
• Catalina 30 sailboat $14,900 Coronado CA
• 1978 Halsey Herreshoff Sailboat $20,000 San diego
• SWAN 441 SAILS NORTH, NEW $2,500 Santa Rosa
• Sailboat canvas $20 SANTEE
• Sailboat Parts $1 West Chester
• 26 ft Sloop ",Aquarious" $777 San Diego
• Airstream silver streak sabre classic rv $6,000 ocean beach
• Sailboat winches $1,500 san diego
• Authentic Models AS069 Bermuda Sloop Sailboat Yacht Model $100 San Diego
• Sails for wings $29,000 Vancouver
• Large 27"x 33" Quality Framed Art Sailboat Tropical Nautical Picture $50 Carlsbad
• Brass Art Sculpture Sailboat Wall Plaque $195 San Diego
• GROCO FITTINGS $40 EAST COUNTY
• 2007 Tacoma V6 4.0 liter automatic $9,500 El Cajon
• 50’ In Mast Furling Aluminum Sailboat Mast $16,000 north san diego county
• Sailboat Mast Ladder easy steps $245 New Orleans
• Cal 2-29 sailboat with freshwater-only Yanmar 2GM (great value) $1,000 Point Loma
• ROYAL KISS - REDUCED! signed and numbered $1,250 Imperial Beach
• Islander30 $10,500 San Diego
• winch BARLOW sailboat $50 El Cajon
• Sailboat JIB Sail $45 San Diego
• 36 Catalina 1984 Sailboat 4 Sale By Owner $40,000 San Diego
• Steel sailboat cradle $275 Julian
• SAILS--22 FT. SAILBOAT $175 Ramona
• Multi-purpose Steel Stands - FREE Shipping $30 city of san diego
• Sailboat winch Barient 36 (pair) $1,200 San Diego
• Lewmar 40 winch $175 San Diego
• Yanmar km2- 0 kanzaki transmission $1,200 Flagstaff, AZ.

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For Sale "sailboats" in Annapolis, MD

• J80 50% share $12,500 Annapolis MD
• Rhodes sailboat and trailer $4,700 Lanoka Harbor, NJ
• Windsurfer $50 Annapolis
• catamoran $800 Severna Park
• Model Sail Boat for sale $275 Annapolis Maryland near Quiet Waters Park
• Museum-Quality Scale:1:78 Model of the Sovereign of the Seas $13,000 Annapolis
• Deep Water Boat Slip - Mill Creek $3,000 Annapolis
• F-27 Trimaran $22,500 Watertown, NY
• Nonsuch 26 C Sailboat $6,000 Ft. Lauderdale fl
• New Price - 1976 Ranger 28’ Racing Sailboat in Pasadena, MD $3,500 Pasadena
• FLYING SCOT $5,000 Chestertown
• Delher Optima 101 $15,000 edgewater
• 1989 Hunter 33.5 $19,900
• Bristol 32 sailboat $8,000 Annapolis
• POINT JUDE 15 $2,100 Oakland
• 1972 Alberg 30 Sailboat $3,000 Annapolis
• '99 M-Yachts MX-Ray $3,000
• Alberg Whitby 30 with Yanmar 2 cyl Diesel $7,300 APG Edgewood MD
• 22' S2 6.7 Grand Slam Sailboat $2,500 Annapolis
• modern Penguin sailboat #9696 $2,900 MOORESTOWN
• Small sail boat $100 Annapolis
• 1977 Pearson 10m $13,000 lewes
• 1946 Hinckley Sou'wester 34 $0 Davidsonville
• 1985 Jeanneau Sun Shine 36, for sale or partner $19,900 Chester MD
• Exquisite, museum-quality Sovereign of the Seas $13,000 Annapolis Maryland Quiet Waters Park Area
• C420 $1 Annapolis
• Laser ILCA 6 Sailboat & 6 Racing Sails & HikingBench $6,000 Annapolis
• 2 BRAND NEW never sold 10' Trinka Row & 12' SAIL w/TRALER $1 Va. Beach , VA.
• 1985 Catalina 25ft Sailboat *EXCELLENT CONDITION* $3,500 lewes
• Beneteau First 24 SE (2021) - Excellent and immaculate condition $110,000 Moscow, Idaho
• 2012 9' Dyer Dhow sailing/rowing dinghy $3,000 Chestertown
• Chesapeake Light craft Southwester Dory $11,000 Annapolis
• 1977 Irwin Mark IV 28’ Sailboat - $4000 w/slip, $6,000 Galesville
• Kittywake 23 sailboat $300 Annapolis
• Freedom 28 Cat Ketch $9,500 Solomons MD
• 1984 Catalina 25 Sailboat $3,000 Mayo, Maryland
• Flying Scot Sailboat $3,000 Annapolis
• Sheel 46 Blue Water - UNIQUE, BEAUTIFUL..! $49,000 Galesville
• Hunter 466 for sale $150,000 Annapolis
• Tashiba 36 Pilothouse $85,000 Deltaville VA
• C&C 29 $0
• SR MAX 21 Sailboat $2,000 Annapolis
• Shannon 28 Sailboat $14,000 Shadyside, Md
• 1971 Pearson 30 $4,000 Annapolis
• 1983 Hunter 34 Sailboat $25,000 Deale
• The Sovereign of the Seas Model Hand Built $13,000 Annapolis Maryland Quite Water Park Area
• 1967 Seafarer 31 $4,000 Annapolis
• Expertly Crafted 32 Foot Westsail $49,900 Barnegat
• Sailboat Hunter 25ft with Solar Panels $8,000 Galesville
• Over 200 framed pictures m-thur 1-4pm sat 7-11am CASH $0 EDGEWATER
• 2016 Marlow Hunter 31 $104,900 Annapolis
• Pearson 323 Sails Like A Dream $13,000 Severna Park
• Laser $1,000 Severna Park
• 2016 Marlow Hunter 31 $104,900 Washington DC
• Grand Soleil 50 $165,000 Galena Md
• 30 Catalina Mark II $1 Worton Creek MD
• Free Flying Dutchman sailboat (in need of work) $0
• Sunfish for teaching scouts $1 Davidsonville
• Selden furler for sale $400 Galesville
• Sailboat Drifter sail $450 Annapolis
• Tartan 34 C Sloop $7,500 Galesville
• Bosan's Chair.....Heavy Duty $75 Kent Island or Morgantown, PA
• Windsurfers and gear, updated picture and prices. $400 Annapolis
• Catameran Trailer $1,150 Annapolis
• Milwaukee Super Hawg $265 Port Annapolis Marina
• Triple axle aluminum trailer $6,995 Edenton NC
• Inflatable Sport Boats - Dinghy, Tenders, Fishing Boat and ISUP $1,499 FREE NATIONWIDE DELIVERY
• 1977 American AG Sailboat with trailer $4,500 Germantown md
• Big boat rigging bits & pieces (new &used) $150 Mayo, Edgewater
• Circuit breakers (new) $10 Mayo, Edgewater
• Sailboat Mast or Flagpole $100 SEVERNA PARK
• 505 sailboat $4,000 Annapolis
• Pompanette Gaff $100
• 10 ft Plastic Lapstrake Dinghy / Tender, dbl row stations. UNSINKABLE $100 Edgewater
• 15ft FAREAST RIB and Boat Rack $24,000 Annapolis, MD
• PYI Packless shaft seal… $175 Annapolis
• Raymarine Micro Compass $75 Ashburn, Va
• Sailboat Package $2,900 Annapolis
• Pearson 35' 1980 $4,000 Machodoc Dalgren
• Tenderly Sailing Dinghy $5,000 Annapolis
• 4 Drawer Chest $77 Arnold

• Articles and Guides

11 Best Small Sailboat Brands: How to Choose Your Next Daysailer or Pocket Cruiser

12th oct 2023 by samantha wilson.

Sailing is a relaxing, invigorating pastime that allows you to harness wind and waves in a unique and historic way without requiring a 50-foot yacht to enjoy what’s special about the experience. In fact, small sailboats allow a delightful back-to-basics experience that often gets lost on larger, systems-heavy sailboats.

On a small sailboat you can connect with the sea, feeling the boat move beneath you. The boat is typically easy to rig, simple to sail, and can even be sailed solo. Small sailboats give you the freedom to trailer your or car-top your boat and go anywhere, and they’re perfect for learning the nuances of sailing. There are many excellent brands and models of small sailboat, each with their own appeal, and here we narrow down some of our favorite in the daysailer and pocket cruiser categories under 30 feet. 

Difference Between a Daysailer and a Pocket Cruiser

While there are many different types of sailboat on the market and there is no single definition of either a daysailer or a pocket cruiser, they are used in a particular way, as the names imply. The term daysailer covers a huge array of sailboats, smaller and sometimes larger, and is generally defined as any day boat used for local sailing, with a simple rig, and easy to get underway. A pocket cruiser typically offers a cabin and head, and adequate accommodations for an overnight stay and sometimes longer cruises. Having said that, there is a large overlap between the two in many instances, so the lines may become blurred. 

What Size is a Small Sailboat?

Small is a relative term of course, but in general—and for the purposes of this article—a small sailboat is one that could be sailed by a small crew, often with one or two people aboard. It will have a simple rig and be trailerable, and it might be either a daysailer or pocket-cruiser style vessel as above. Within those categories, there are many models and styles, but when it comes to length we consider a sailboat as small when it’s under 30 feet in overall length. 

The Best Sailboats Under 30 Feet

Pocket cruiser: Beneteau First 27.  The Beneteau First 27 is a modern example of a pocket cruiser, earning Cruising World ’s Boat of the Year award in the Pocket Cruiser category in 2022. With space for up to six people accommodated in a separated bow-cabin and open saloon, it offers families the chance to go farther, explore more, and cruise in comfort. There is a galley with freshwater and a head, adding to the interior home comforts. The sailboat itself is modern, fast, and stable, designed by Sam Manuard, and has been designed to be incredibly safe and almost unsinkable thanks to its three watertight chambers. The handling is also refreshingly intuitive, with a well-designed cockpit, simple deck controls, and double winches allowing it to be sailed solo, by two people, or a small crew. 

Photo credit: Beneteau

Daysailer: Alerion 28.  You’ll certainly turn heads cruising along in an Alerion 28, a daysailer whose forerunner by the same name was designed by Nathanael Herreshoff in 1912 and then updated with a modern underbody for fiberglass production by Carl Schumacher in the late 1980s. This pretty daysailer manages to combine a traditional silhouette and classic feel, with very modern engineering creating an excellent package. Over 470 of these sailboats were built and sold in the past 30 years, making it one of the most popular modern daysailers on the water. With a small cabin and saloon, complete with miniature galley area, it offers respite from the sun or wind and the option for a night aboard. The cockpit offers a beautiful sailing experience, with plenty of space for the whole family. 

Photo credit: Alerion Yachts

The Best Sailboats Under 25 Feet

Pocket cruiser: Cornish Crabber 24.  British manufacturer Cornish Crabber has been producing beautiful, traditional style small sailboats for decades, ensuring they honor their heritage both in the construction style and appearance of their boats. The Cornish Crabber 24 is the most iconic of their range and dates back to the 1980s. It offers a simple yet surprisingly spacious interior layout with cabin, galley, and head, and a good sized cockpit, as well as seating for up to six people. It’s the perfect family sailboat, with clever use of storage as well as just under 5000 pounds of displacement providing stability and easy tacking. Aesthetically the 24 is simply beautiful, with a traditional silhouette (combined with modern engineering), finished in hardwood trims. 

Photo credit: Cornish Crabber

Daysailer: Catalina 22 Capri.  Catalina sailboats need little introduction, and are one of the world’s best-known, most-respected brands building small sailboats. The Catalina 22 Capri (also available in a sport model) is a great example of what Catalina does so well. While we’ve classified it as a daysailer, it could easily cross into the pocket cruiser category, as it offers excellent sailing performance in almost all conditions as well as having a small cabin, galley, and head. Loved for its safety, stability, ease of handling and simple maintenance, it makes for a good first family boat for getting out onto the bay or lake. 

Photo credit: Catalina

The Best Sailboats Under 20 Feet

Pocket cruiser: CapeCutter 19.  This is another model that combines the beauty of the traditional silhouettes with modern-day advancements. The design originates from the classic gaff cutter work boats, but today offers excellent performance—in fact it’s one of the fastest small gaffers in the world. The interior is cleverly spacious, with four berths, two of which convert into a saloon, as well as a simple galley area. With quick rigging, it can be sailed solo, but is also able to accommodate small groups, making it a capable and hugely versatile pocket cruiser. 

Photo credit: Cape Cutter 19

Daysailer: Swallow Yachts’ BayRaider 20.  Classic looks with modern performance are combined in Swallow Yachts’ beautiful BayRaider 20. This is one of the most capable and safest daysailers we’ve seen, but also incredibly versatile thanks to the choices of ballast. Keep the ballast tank empty and it’s light and fast. Fill the tank up and you’ve got a stable and safe boat perfect for beginners and families. While it’s got an eye-catching traditional style, the engineering is modern, with a strong carbon mast and construction. While this is a true daysailer, you can use the optional spray hood and camping accessories to create an overnight adventure. 

Photo credit: Swallow Yachts

The Best Sailboats Under 15 Feet

Pocket Cruiser: NorseBoat 12.5.  Can we truly call the NorseBoat 12.5 a pocket cruiser? Yes we can! The sheer versatility of this excellent little sailboat has convinced us. These beautiful hand-crafted sailboats offer exceptional performance and are described by the manufacturer as ‘the Swiss Army Knives of sailboats’. The traditionally styled 12.5 can be sailed, rowed, and motored. It can be trailered, easily beached, and even used as a camp cruiser, allowing for overnight adventures. There is no end to the fun that can be had with this easy-to-sail and easy-to-handle boat, which makes it a dream to learn in. With positive flotation, lots of clever storage, and a full-size double berth for camp cruising, it really is the perfect mini pocket cruiser. 

Photo credit: NorseBoats

Daysailer: Original Beetle Cat Boat 12: All across the bays of the US east coast cat boats have long been part of the ocean landscape. Able to access shallow rocky coves yet also withstand the strong coastal winds, these traditional New England fishing boats have an iconic shape and gaff-rigged mainsails. Beetle Cat have been producing elegant wooden cat boats for over 100 years – in fact they’ve made and sold over 4,000 boats to date. Their 12 foot Cat Boat 12 is one of their finest models, offering lovely daysailing opportunities. It has a wide beam and centerboard that lifts up, allowing it to access shallow waters, as well as a forward mast and single sail gaff rig in keeping with the traditional cat boats. To sail one of these is to be part of the heritage of New England and Cape Cod, and to honor the ancient art of hand-made boat building. 

Beetle Cat official website

Photo credit: Beetle Cat

The Best Small Sailboats for Beginners

When it comes to learning to sail, it’s important to have a boat that is easy to handle. There’s no quicker way to put yourself or your family off sailing than to start off with a boat that is either too big or too complicated. When choosing your first boat we recommend the following characteristics:

• Small: The benefits of starting off with a small boat are many, as we’ve seen above. They’re easier to control as well as to moor, and they react more quickly to steering and sails. They can be trailered and launched easily, and the loads generated are much lower than on bigger, heavier boats.
• Easy to sail: You want a boat that is stable and forgiving of mistakes, doesn’t capsize easily, and isn’t too overpowered in a stronger breeze. Keep things simple and learn as you go.
• Simple sail configuration: Choosing a boat that can be rigged by one person in a few minutes, and easily sailed solo, makes it easier to take along inexperienced crews. With regards to the rig, all you need are a halyard to hoist the mainsail and a sheet to control the mainsail.
• Tiller steering: We recommend boats with tiller steering over wheel steering when starting out. The tiller allows you to get a real feel for the boat and how the rudder works as it moves through the water. 

For more information on choosing the best beginner sailboat check out our full guide. There are many popular brands of beginner boats including Sunfish, Laser, and Hunter Marlow. Some of our favorites include;

Hobie 16: The classic Hobie catamaran has been a well-loved beginner sailboat for years, and the Hobie 16 started life back in 1969. Since then they’ve made and sold over a staggering 100,000 of the 16s. It has twin fiberglass and foam hulls, a large trampoline, and a pull-up rudder so it can be sailed straight onto the beach. The basic package comes with an easy to handle main and jib with plenty of extras available too such as a spinnaker and trailer. The Hobie 16 promises a great learning experience and lots of fun in a very nifty and inexpensive package. 

Photo credit: Hobie

Paine 14: You’ll immediately fall in love with sailing when you step into a beautiful Paine 14. Made from seamless epoxy cold-molded wood, the P-14 is simply beautiful and offers the classic sailing experience with the design and innovation of a more modern hull and rig. Two people will be able to enjoy getting out on the water together and learning the ropes. The Paine 14 has a lead ballast keel that accounts for nearly half her weight, giving her the feel of a much larger boat, but is still trailerable and easy to manage offering the best of both worlds.

Photo credit: Chuck Paine

High-Performance Small Sailboats

Small sailboats generally become high performers if they are light, have a lot of sail area, or they have more than one hull. More recently, some of have been designed with foiling surfaces, as well. For the purposes of this article, we’d like to close by pointing out one model that is super fast and has versatile pocket-cruising capabilities.

Corsair 880 trimaran : The Corsair 880 trimaran is the grandchild of the company’s F27, a model that launched the popularity of trailerable leisure trimarans about 40 years ago. The 880 has taken the model to new heights and exemplifies the incredible space benefits you can achieve in a 29-foot sailboat. We’re talking an aft cabin, room to sleep 5 people, an enclosed head, and standing headroom in the galley and main saloon. It brings many of the opportunities that a much larger yacht plus the ability to cruise in extremely shallow water. Whether you want to cruise to the Bahamas or enjoy a high-adrenaline race, the Corsair 880 offers incredible performance and unlimited adventures in a truly pocket size. 

Photo credit: Corsair

Written By: Samantha Wilson

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

More from: Samantha Wilson

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