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  • Live Aboard Boats for Sale

Live Aboard Boats for Sale by their Owners

In collating this listing of live aboard boats for sale, we've taken the view that living aboard a sailboat smaller than 32 feet is unlikely to provide her occupant(s) with a high degree of comfort - nor would a stripped-out, light-displacement racer of any length. 

Live Aboard Boats for Sale by Length Overall

  • Under 40 feet
  • 40 to 50 feet
  • Over 50 feet

And what qualifies a boat as suitable for living aboard is very much a personal view.

For example, some liveaboard sailors - happy to rely on a diesel generator - will tell you that they couldn't possibly manage without a flat screen TV and a plumbed-in washing machine, whilst others - more reasonably in my view - consider self-sufficiency in terms of drinking water (through rain water collection and/or a reverse osmosis water maker) and green electrical power (from a wind turbine and/or solar panels) to be primary requirements. 

All the boats below are offered for sale by their owners, many of which live aboard their boats for considerable periods at a time.

Live-Aboard Sailboats under 40 feet

Single-handers, provided they're content with a fairly spartan standard of living, will tell you that a thirty-two-footer is ideal for living aboard. A cruising couple though are likely to aspire to something with additional creature-comforts and a little more space below.

Having said that I know of two young cruising couples who crossed the Atlantic in their Sadler 25's and cruised the Caribbean in them, so you really don't need a big cruising boat - it's better to cruise in a small boat than not to cruise at all!

Sailboats approaching 40 feet, like the larger ones shown below, are more likely to appeal to them.

Relatively easy to maintain and considerably less expensive to own and operate than those above 40 (particularly so if you're inclined to spend much time in marinas) they represent the minimum size range for comfortable living aboard.

'Blue Juice' THUMB

'Blue Juice' , a Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 361

Location:  Edgewater, MD, USA

Asking Price: $349,000

'Galileo', Jaguar 36 catamaran, THUMB

'Galileo' , a Jaguar 36 catamaran

Location:  Grenada West Indies

Asking Price: $150,000

Westerly Oceanranger 38 'Petrel Blue' THUMB

'Petrel Blue' , a Westerly Oceanranger 38

Location:  Grenada, West Indies

Asking Price: $38,588

'Hitchcock', an RM1260 THUMB

'Hitchcock' , an RM1260

Location: Grenada, West Indies.

Asking Price: €209,000

'Live the Dash' THUMB'

'Live the Dash' , a  Morgan Out Island 37

Location: St Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands.

Asking Price:  $36,900   $33,900

Wauquiez Gladiateur 33 'Kesh' THUMB

'Kesh' , a  Wauquiez Gladiateur 33

Location: Indiantown, Florida USA.

Asking Price:  $42,000 $36,000

Pompeon THUMB

'Pompoen' , a Hans Christian 34

Location: Trinidad, West Indies

Asking Price:  $42,000

Shindig underway

'Shindig' , a Custom Design Performance Cruiser

Asking Price:  $49,900

Hunter 376 sailboat, 'Just Friends', THUMB

'Just Friends' , a Hunter 376

Location:  Puerto Rico, West Indies

Asking Price:  $70,000

Allied Seawind MkII sailboat - anchored

'Seawind' , an Allied Seawind MkII

Location:  Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA

Asking Price:  $59,700

more ' Seawind ' pics, info and owner's contact details...

Rival 38, 'Manhe', alongside

'Manhé-1' , a Rival 38

Location:  The Canary Islands, returning to Mediterranean in May 2023

Asking Price:  €78,000

more 'Manhé-1' pics, info and owner's contact details...

'Anna', a Bavaria 390 sailboat at anchor

'Anna' , a Bavaria 390

Location:  Trinidad, West Indies

Asking Price:  $35,000 now $28,000

more 'Anna' pics, info and owner's contact details...

'Freja', a Voyager 35 Sailboat

'Freja' , a Voyager 35

Location:  Martinique, French West Indies

Asking Price:  €35,000

more 'Freja' pics, info and owner's contact details...

'Hero', a Pacific Seacraft Crealock 37 sailboat

'Hero' , a Pacific Seacraft 37

Location:  The Caribbean

Asking Price:  $139,000   now $125,000!

more 'Hero' pics and info...

Wharram Tiki 38 Thumb2

'Iko Iko' , a Wharram Tiki 38 Catamaran

Location:  Key West, Florida USA

Asking Price:  $75,000

more 'Iko Iko' pics and info...

IP 350, GoLightly, THUMB

'Golightly' , an Island Packet 350

Asking Price:  $88,000

more 'Golightly' pics and info...

'Charisma', a Downeaster 38 Sailboat at anchor

'Charisma' , a Downeaster 38

Location:  Cabrillo Marina, San Pedro, California USA

Asking Price: $70,000

'Maia', a Moody 376 Sailboat under sail

'Maia' , a Moody 376

Location:  Martinique, French West Indies

Asking Price: €70,000

'Svea av Valleviken', an Overseas 35 Sailboat for Sale

'Svea av Valleviken' , an Overseas 35

Location:  Grenada, West Indies

Asking Price: €89,000

'Kesh', a Wauquiez Gladiateur 33 sailboat for Sale

'Kesh' , a Wauquiez Gladiateur 33

Location:  Indiantown, Florida USA

Asking Price:  $37,500

'Aphroditi', a Bavaria 37 Cruiser, 2007 for sale

'Aphroditi' , a Bavaria 37

Location:  Athens, Greece

Asking Price:  €62,000

A Cal 27 for sale

A Cal 27

Location:  Waukegan, IL

Asking Price:  $7,000

'Wild Goose', a 1982 Tartan 3000 for sale

'Wild Goose' , a Tartan 3000

Asking Price:   $22,500 

A GibSea 37 Ketch for sale

A GibSea 37 Ketch

Location:  Martinique, West Indies

Asking Price:   €35,000

Live-Aboard Sailboats from 40 feet to 50 feet

Most live-aboard boats fall within this range. All have plenty of space for a cruising couple and all their gear, along with sizeable berths for visiting friends and family members. But watch those marina bills...

'Maravilla', Jeanneau Sun OdysseyDS THUMB

'Maravilla' , a Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 44 DS

Location:  Annapolis, USA

'Bijou', Hylas 46 main photo

'Bijou' , a Hylas 46 

Location:  Panama

Asking Price: $397,500

'Windward, Tayana 48DS, THUMB

'Windward' , a Tayana 48 DS 

Asking Price: $390,000

'Harvester 1', THUMB

'Harvester 1' , a Harmony 42 

Asking Price: $79,000

'Alkoomi', Hunter 466, THUMB

'Alkoomi' , a Hunter 466 

Asking Price: $149,000

'Venture', Hunter Passage 42, THUMB

'Soul Venture' , a Hunter Passage 42

Asking Price: $69,000

Beneteau Oceanis 473 'Penniless' THUMB

'Penniless' , a Beneteau Oceanis 473 Clipper

Location:  South Pacific

Asking Price: $145,000 / €135,000

'Coco Rose', Lipari 41, THUMB

'Coco Rose' , a Fountaine Pajot Lipari 41

Asking Price: €131,000

'One for the Road', a Hunter passage 450 for sale

'One for the Road' , a Hunter Passage 450

Location:  Ragusa, Sicily

Asking Price: €135,000

Seawolf 40, 'Wind's Way' - THUMB

'Wind's Way' , a Hardin Seawolf 40

Asking Price: $66,000

'Blue Jacket', Freedom 40, THUMB

'BlueJacket' , a Freedom 40/40

Location:  Belize, Central America

Asking Price: $150,000   $134,900

HC42, 'Heart', THUMB

'Heart' , a Hans Christian 43T

Location:  Port Saint Louis du Rhone, France

Asking Price: €119,000

Catalina Morgan 43, 'Cabo Frio', THUMB

'Cabo Frio' , a Catalina Morgan 43

Asking Price: $65,000

Bristol 40 anchor

'Venture' , a  Bristol 40

Asking Price: $46,000 $36,000

Revelia THUMB

'Revelia' , a  Cheoy Lee 47 Ketch

Location: Grenada, West Indies

Asking Price:  $154,900 $125,000

Wanu' Catalina 42MkII, THUMB

"Wanuskewin" , a Catalina 42 MkII

Location: Lucaya, Grand Bahama

Asking Price:  $105,000

Bavaria 44, Helios

'Helios' , the Bavaria 44

Location:  Rio Dulce, Guatemala

Asking Price:  $120,000

Cherubini 44 'Magic' THUMB

'Magic' , at Cherubini 44

Location:  Punta Gorda, Florida, USA

Asking Price:  $285,000

Gib'Sea 126 Pegasus, alongside

'Pegasus' , a Gib'Sea 126

Location:  Curaçao, Dutch Antilles

Asking Price:  $50,000 $45,000

'Untethered Soul', a Vagabond 47 sailboat,

'Untethered Soul' , a Vagabond 47

Location:  Fajardo, Puerto Rico

Asking Price:  $162,000 $96,000

Beneteau 473 sailboat

'Merlin' , a Beneteau 473

Location:  Rhode Island, USA

Asking Price:  $179,000

more 'Merlin' pics, info and owner's contact details...

Hout Bay 40 'Mirage' THUMB

'Mirage' , a Hout Bay 40

Location:  Turkey

Asking Price:  $99,500

more 'Mirage' pics and info...

'Windseeker', a Morgan 41 Out Island Ketch sailboat

'Windseeker' , a Morgan 41 Out Island Ketch

Location:  Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

Asking Price:  $60,000

'Sirius', a Beneteau Oceanis 46 for Sale

'Sirius' , a Beneteau Oceanis 46

Location:  Chiapas, Mexico

Asking Price:  $198,000 $159,000

'Music II', a Morgan 41 Classic Sailboat

'Music II' , a Morgan 41 Classic

Asking Price:  $97,500

a Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40 Catamaran at anchor

' Havanesey Day ' , a Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40

Location:  Croatia/Montenegro

Asking Price:  €475,000

'Celebration', a Morgan 415 Out Island Ketch

'Celebration' , a Morgan 415 Out Island Ketch

Location:  St Petersburg, Florida, USA

Asking Price: $82,500

'Spellbound', a Hardin Seawolf 40 Sailboat for Sale

'Spellbound' , a Hardin Seawolf 40

Location:  Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

Asking Price: $66,500

'Blue Jay', a J40 Sailboat for Sale

'Blue Jay' , a J/40

Location:  Cadiz, Spain

Asking Price: €80,000

'Coconut', a Contest 41S For Sale

'Coconut' , a Contest 41S

Location:  Norway

Asking Price:  £74,999

'Lola', a Frans Maas 50 Schooner for sale

'Lola' , a Frans Maas 50 Schooner

Location:  Colon, Panama

Asking Price:   $65,900

A Hunter Passage 450 sailboat

'Southern Cross' , a Hunter Passage 450

Location:   Puerto Rico, Caribbean

Asking Price:  $139,750

Live-Aboard Sailboats over 50 feet

Although many liveaboard boats within this range are owned and operated by just two people, they can become something of a liability in terms of running costs and an embarrassment when close-quarters maneuvering. 

But if space and luxury are your primary requirements, this is where to look.

'Searching...', Bavaria 50 THUMB

'Searching for the Edge' , a  Bavaria 50 Vision

Location:  Key Biscayne, Florida

Asking Price:  $249,000

Sundeer 56 THUMB

'Scraatch' , a Sundeer 56  

Location: Puerto Penasco, Mexico

Asking Price:  $300,000

'Rocky', a Pearson 590, THUMB

'Rocky' , a Pearson 530 

Location:  Brunswick, Georgia USA

Asking Price:  $205,000

Columbia 56, 'Lusty', anchoring THUMB

'Lusty' , a Columbia 56

Location:  Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

more ' Lusty ' pics, info and owner's contact details...

'Aleria', a Bowman 57 Staysail Ketch for Sale

'Aleria' , a Bowman 57

Location:  Ireland

Asking Price:  €275,000

A Tayana Flying Dutchman 50 Cutter for sale

'Small World II' a Tayana Flying Dutchman 50

Location:  Subic Bay Yacht Club, Philippines

Asking Price:  $165,000

More pics and details...

A Beneteau 500 sailboat

'Surgiamo' ,  a Beneteau 500

Location:  Turkey

Asking Price:  €125,000

Tayana 55 Cutter

‘La Scala a Mare’ , a Tayana 55 Cutter

Location:  Phuket, Thailand

Asking Price:  $230,000

More about Living Aboard & Long Distance Sailing...

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Tips for a Tradewinds Sailing Passage across an Ocean

Tradewinds sailing across an ocean is the stuff of dreams for most offshore sailors, but how does the reality of it stack up against expectations?

Could living aboard a sailboat work for you? Here we compare our pre-departure expectations with the reality of living aboard our sailboat and crossing an ocean

How Living Aboard a Sailboat Worked Out for the Crew of Alacazam

Could living aboard a sailboat work for you? Here we compare our pre-departure expectations with the reality of living aboard our sailboat and crossing an ocean

First Time Atlantic Crossing

The story of a cruising couple's first Atlantic Crossing in a sailboat, as recorded at the time by the female half of the crew. A fascinating insight of what a long ocean passage is really like.

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Brown Booby Aboard in Mid-Atlantic

Some 500 miles northwest of the Cabo Verdes, I was surprised to discover the presence of an additional brown booby aboard...

Before setting off on your Caribbean sailing adventure, make sure you've read through this information and advice from an experienced Caribbean cruising sailor

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13 Dirt-Cheap Liveaboard Sailboats (That Are Actually Good)

small liveaboard sailboats for sale

When it comes to selecting a dirt-cheap liveaboard sailboat, you don't have to compromise on quality. There are many classic models and a few hidden gems that provide comfort, space, and sailing capabilities at a very affordable price. In this article, you'll find a list of classic liveaboard sailboats, as well as a few original finds that can fit your budget.

Liveaboard sailboats that are cheap but actually good include Westsail 32, Alberg 30, Tayana 37, Catalina 30, Ericson 35, Albin Vega 27, Bristol 32, Morgan 323, Contessa 32, Pearson 365, Hunter 31, Cal 34, and Tartan 30. The prices of these boats range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more.

Living aboard a sailboat on a budget doesn't mean you have to settle for less. These affordable boats can still provide the comfort and performance you're looking for. We've included some models that you can find on Craigslist.

  • These budget-friendly liveaboard sailboats offer a great combination of affordability, performance, and comfort, making them ideal choices for living the sailing dream.
  • Some classic models that provide you with enough room to move around and store your belongings include the Alberg 30 and the Tayana 37.
  • Classic models such as the Westsail 32, Alberg 30, Tayana 37, Catalina 30, Ericson 35, and Albin Vega 27 are known for their seaworthiness and versatility.
  • The cheaper the boat, the more likely you'll need to invest in repairs and spare parts over the years. This is where some more obscure finds can surprise you, such as the Contessa 32 and the Cal 34, which offer easy maintenance and relatively cheap spare parts.

On this page:

13 cheapest liveaboard sailboats that are good, key features of a good liveaboard sailboat, classic liveaboard sailboat models, affordable liveaboard sailboats.

Price Range
$30,000 to $80,000
$5,000 to $20,000
$40,000 to $120,000
$10,000 to $40,000
$20,000 to $50,000
$5,000 to $20,000
$10,000 to $50,000
$20,000 to $40,000
$20,000 to $50,000
$30,000 to $80,000
$10,000 to $30,000
$10,000 to $30,000
$10,000 to $30,000

When looking for an affordable yet reliable liveaboard sailboat , there are several important features to consider. These can greatly affect your overall experience and satisfaction with your chosen boat.

Layout and space : On a liveaboard sailboat, space and layout are crucial. You'll want a boat that offers efficient use of space, a comfortable living area, a functional galley, and adequate storage. Generally, 25 to 35 feet in length is the ideal size range for a liveaboard.

Sailing performance : Even if you plan to live aboard primarily , sailing performance should still be a priority. Consider its ability to handle light winds, heavy winds, and everything in between. Your boat should be able to handle various sea conditions and be easily maneuvered. It should be versatile enough for various wind conditions and sea states.

Hull design : The hull design of your sailboat will affect its stability and performance in the water. Look for a design that offers a good balance between comfort, safety, and speed. A full-keel or modified full-keel design provides stability and tracking in rough seas, while a fin keel offers better maneuverability in tight spaces like harbors and marinas.

Maintenance and construction : Pay attention to the boat's construction materials and quality. Fiberglass and aluminum are popular choices due to their durability and low maintenance requirements. Wooden boats tend to be more affordable but may require more maintenance and care.

In this section, we will discuss some classic liveaboard sailboat models that are known for their affordability, functionality, and reliability. These boats have stood the test of time and are excellent choices, especially for novices.

Westsail 32 is known as "the cruiser that launched the cruising boom"

The Westsail 32 is a sturdy, reliable, and comfortable liveaboard option for those seeking a classic, bluewater cruising boat. Designed by William Crealock, it boasts heavy construction, a full keel, a roomy interior, and seaworthy capabilities. With many of these boats available on the market, you can find a Westsail 32 in good condition at affordable prices.

Alberg 30 is a classic full-keel cruiser known for its seaworthy design

small liveaboard sailboats for sale

The Alberg 30 is a classic design from the 1960s, created by Carl Alberg, and built by Whitby Boat Works in Canada. This boat is known for being easy to sail and is a perfect choice for new liveaboards. The Alberg 30 has a simple layout, adequate living space, and enough storage to make it a suitable option for long-term living, all while keeping to a budget.

Tayana 37 is known for its seaworthiness and durability

small liveaboard sailboats for sale

Designed by Robert Perry and built in Taiwan, the Tayana 37 is a popular and capable bluewater cruiser. This well-built classic boat is known for its comfort, safety, and ease of handling when sailing long distances. The Tayana 37 offers plenty of space and storage, making it a delightfully practical liveaboard choice, even for small families or couples.

Catalina 30 is one of the most popular sailboats of all time

small liveaboard sailboats for sale

The Catalina 30 is one of the most popular sailboats in its size range and has a reputation for being an incredibly spacious boat, given its 30-foot length. Designed by Frank Butler, the Catalina 30 is known for its roomy interior and user-friendly layout, making it a fantastic option for liveaboard enthusiasts. The affordability and availability of the Catalina 30 also make it a top choice among sailors. It’s a tried-and-true option for liveaboard enthusiasts.

Ericson 35 has solid build quality

small liveaboard sailboats for sale

For those looking for a slightly larger liveaboard sailboat, the Ericson 35 is an excellent option. Designed by Bruce King and built by Ericson Yachts, it is praised for its solid build quality and comfortable accommodations. The practical layout and generous storage space make the boat a desirable choice for those looking to live aboard on a budget .

Albin Vega 27 is a proven ocean cruiser

small liveaboard sailboats for sale

The Albin Vega 27 is a smaller liveaboard option for those who prioritize simplicity and affordability. Designed by Per Brohäll and built in Sweden, the Albin Vega 27 is a proven ocean cruiser with a surprising amount of space for a boat of its size. If you're looking for an affordable liveaboard sailboat with a compact yet functional layout, the Albin Vega 27 might be the perfect fit for you.

In your quest for a dirt-cheap liveaboard sailboat that's actually good, there are some finds worth considering. Let's dive into these affordable gems that were built for liveaboard life and sailing.

Bristol 32 is known for its classic design and solid construction

The Bristol 32 is a classic liveaboard sailboat with a solid reputation for its sturdy construction and excellent sailing performance. Designed by Ted Hood, this boat is known for its comfortable living spaces and adequate storage. A used Bristol 32 can be found at a reasonable price, making it perfect for those with a tight budget.

Morgan 323 provides stability and safety

small liveaboard sailboats for sale

Next is the Morgan 323, which offers a great deal of interior space for a 32-foot sailboat. The well-designed layout ensures you have all the necessary amenities for living aboard while maintaining high sailing performance. Equipped with a full keel and skeg-hung rudder, the Morgan 323 provides stability and safety while underway.

Contessa 32 has a solid reputation for being safe, seaworthy, and comfortable

A British classic, the Contessa 32 is a small yet capable liveaboard sailboat , perfect for a couple or solo sailor. With its sleek lines, excellent performance, and well-built hull, the Contessa 32 is a go-to choice for many budget-conscious sailors. It's a rugged, seaworthy vessel that can handle various weather conditions with ease.

Pearson 365 is suitable for long-term and weekend cruises

small liveaboard sailboats for sale

The Pearson 365 is another popular liveaboard sailboat, known for its spacious interior, comfortable accommodations, and reasonable price. With a roomy cockpit, plenty of storage, and a versatile sail plan, the Pearson 365 is well-suited for both long-term liveaboards and weekend cruisers.

Hunter 31 is well-rounded and spacious

small liveaboard sailboats for sale

Affordable and easy to find, the Hunter 31 is a popular choice for budget-conscious sailors searching for a suitable liveaboard. With its beamy hull, the Hunter 31 boasts a spacious and functional interior. While not a traditional bluewater cruiser, the Hunter 31 can hold its own in coastal and nearshore environments.

Cal 34 offers solid sailing performance

small liveaboard sailboats for sale

Another solid liveaboard option is the Cal 34. This well-designed sailboat has earned a reputation for its quality construction and comfortable living spaces. The Cal 34 strikes a suitable balance between performance and affordability, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious sailors.

Tartan 30 has enough space for living aboard

small liveaboard sailboats for sale

Last but not least is the Tartan 30. This sturdy sailboat is known for its seakeeping abilities and high-quality construction. The Tartan 30 provides adequate space for living aboard while maintaining its performance capabilities. Finding a used Tartan 30 at a great price is an excellent opportunity to secure an affordable, comfortable liveaboard.

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Used Live Aboard Boats For Sale

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70' Hatteras 1988

Stuart, United States

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60' Viking 60 Cockpit Sport Yacht 1996

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56' Carver 564 Motor Yacht Aft Cabin 2002

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53' Hatteras 53 Motor Yacht 1980

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50' Custom Trawler 1991

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Richmond, Canada

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10 Best Used Cruising Sailboats

  • By John Kretschmer
  • Updated: May 24, 2024

The appeal of offshore voyaging is difficult to explain to land people who can’t imagine life without basic human rights like copious quantities of hot water and unlimited data. It can even be challenging to explain to fellow sailors who think the notion of spending days or weeks at sea is a form of water­boarding, some kind of self-inflicted torture.

But for those of us who understand, who relish intimacy with the untamed wilderness that is the ocean and embrace self-­reliance and individual expression while accepting the ­dispassionate whims of Neptune, this is the good life.

There are two essential truths about this life: One, money does not matter. Cruising budgets and lifestyles reflect bank accounts with variously positioned commas; it’s the passages and landfalls that add up, not your investment portfolio. And two, a good bluewater sailboat — not necessarily an expensive boat, but a well-­designed, solidly built, imminently seaworthy boat that is only limited by your moxie and imagination — is the key to successful bluewater passagemaking.

– LEARN THE NAVIGATION RULES – Know the “Rules of the Road” that govern all boat traffic. Be courteous and never assume other boaters can see you. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

So, to that second point, I’ve compiled a list of interesting and affordable cruising sailboats for serious voyaging. A list of 10 sailboats for any purpose, much less world cruising, is sure to evoke outrage from strong-minded sailors, who by nature tend to be a bit opinionated. Stand by before hurling insults my way, and let me explain. I have decided to stay away from the sailboats we know by heart, the iconic old boats that usually populate a list like this: the Westsail 32, Tayana 37, Shannon 38 and Valiant 40 (the last of which, with a bit of searching, can still be found at or just below $100,000).

My list of some of the best liveaboard sailboats is eclectic and includes a mix of well-known and obscure manufacturers, but all the boats are linked in three ways: All are top-quality vessels capable of crossing oceans. They’re affordable, although in a few cases you have to look for older models in less-than-stellar condition to stay below $100,000. Indeed, in some ways, this list of used sailboats is a function of age; most of the boats were priced at more than $100,000 when new but have dipped below our self-imposed threshold in middle age. And finally, they’re all boats that I have encountered in the past few years in far-flung cruising destinations .

Island Packet 35

Packet 35

Love them or loathe them, Island Packets are everywhere. To some, the beamy, full-keel, high-freeboard hull designs seem quaint, to put it charitably. To others, the robust construction standards, roomy interiors and overall user-friendliness make them the ideal cruising boat. More than most, sailing vessels are compromises, and Bob Johnson and his crew at Island Packet were brilliant in prioritizing the needs of sailors. The IP 35 was introduced in 1988 and features a huge cockpit, an easy-to-handle cutter rig with a jib boom, and a clever, comfortable interior with the volume of many 40-footers. It might not be the fastest boat upwind, but the long waterline translates to good performance off the breeze, meaning the IP 35 finds its stride in the trade winds. In all, 188 boats were built before production stopped in 1994.

Don’t confuse the IP 35 with the IP 350, which was launched in 1997 and included a stern swim step. You won’t find a 350 for less than $100,000, but you will have a choice among 35s, especially those built before 1990. With two nice staterooms, the 35 is ideal for family cruising. I know of a couple of 35s that have completed the classic Atlantic Circle passage. It’s perfect for a sabbatical cruise because it holds its value and there’s a ready market when it comes time to sell.

Prout Snowgoose 37

Prout Snowgoose 37

There’s no room for discussion: Catamarans are crossing oceans, and many sailors are choosing cats for world cruising. My last visits to the Azores and Canary Islands, the classic Atlantic waypoints, proved the point. I’m not much of a statistician, but by my count, at least a quarter and maybe a third of the boats I saw were catamarans. There would be more on this list, but they are just too expensive. Finding a quality catamaran for less than $100,000 is tough. One boat to consider is the classic workhorse multihull, the Prout Snowgoose 37.

When the Snowgoose 37 was launched in 1983, English builder Prout & Sons had already been in business for nearly 50 years. The 37 was an updated version of the Snowgoose 35, one of the most successful cruising cats ever. In 1986, the 37 was updated again; the Snowgoose Elite model included more beam and interior upgrades. These models are challenging to find for under $100,000, but it’s possible. A quick glance at yachtworld.com shows several of both models available for less than $100,000. Again, the strong dollar makes European boats an excellent value.

The Snowgoose 37 is not sexy like go-fast cats, and not roomy like modern cruising cats. It is, however, seaworthy. Of the 500 built, many have circumnavigated. Older boats have solid fiberglass hulls, and more recent models are solid glass from the waterline down and cored above. The cockpit is rather compact by catamaran standards, and the bridgedeck is solid (no tramp). Many 37s and all Elites were rigged with staysails, a big plus in heavy weather. The masthead-­rigged Snowgoose 37 can be sailed like a monohull offshore, and it’s quite nice not having a huge, roachy mainsail to wrestle with in a storm. With a 15-foot-3-inch beam for the 37 and a 16-foot-3-inch beam for the Elite, it’s easy to find affordable dockage and yards for haulouts. Most boats have three double cabins, making the Snowgoose 37 an ideal family cruiser.

Corbin 39

The Corbin 39 is not as well known as it should be. It’s a capable bluewater sailboat cruiser with many impressive voyages logged. My Quetzal spent several weeks moored alongside a handsome 39 in Corfu that had sailed around the world, and I also spent a winter in Malta in the same boatyard as another 39 that had recently crossed the Atlantic. A canoe-stern, flush-deck pilothouse cutter, the 39 was offered with either an aft or center cockpit. Designed by Michael Dufour and constructed by Corbin les Bateaux in Canada, hull number one was launched in 1977. Built in various locations in Quebec, 129 boats were launched before a fire destroyed the deck tooling in 1982. A new deck with a larger cockpit was designed, and 70 more boats were laid up before production ceased in 1990.

The rub on the Corbin 39 is that the majority of boats were sold as kits with owner-­finished interiors. Kits varied from just hull-and-deck to “sailaway,” with everything fitted except the interior. Only 15 boats were finished at the factory. Not surprisingly, the interior quality is unpredictable, from rough-hewn lumberyard specials to beautifully handcrafted gems finished by marine professionals. The difference is reflected in the price. A nicely finished, well-equipped model from the mid-’80s typically sells for between $60,000 and $80,000.

The hull shape features a long fin keel and skeg-mounted rudder. The hulls are heavily laid up and include Airex coring. Early decks were plywood-cored, but most boats have Airex in the deck as well. Ballast is 9,000 pounds of internal lead, translating to a 40 percent ballast-to-displacement ratio. The wide flush deck is spacious, and the sleek pilothouse usually includes inside steering. Massive double anchor rollers are incorporated into the bowsprit in later models. Most boats include a double-­spreader spar, and almost all were set up as cutters. There’s plenty of freeboard, which becomes obvious below. While interior arrangements vary considerably, there’s a lot of room to work with. I prefer the post-1982 aft-cockpit 39s; they’re generally of a higher quality than earlier boats.

– CARRY A BEACON – Satellite beacons such as EPIRBs or PLBs allow boaters to transmit distress signals and their exact coordinates from anywhere on the planet, no cell service required. It may be the best $400 you ever spend. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

Cabo Rico 38

Cabo Rico 38

“The Cabo Rico 38 hull shape is the one in which everything came together best,” wrote Bill Crealock in his design notes. He might have changed his mind later in life, considering that the Cabo Rico was introduced in 1977 and he designed many boats after that, but few will dispute that this 38-foot cutter, built in Costa Rica, is flat-out beautiful. From the clipper bow to the sweet sheer to the abundance of honey-colored teak, the Cabo Rico 38 is a boat to inspire the most practical among us to quit their job, buy this vessel, and head for the South Pacific.

Not surprisingly, many people have done just that. Cabo Rico built 200 full-keeled 38s, with most of the production occurring in the 1980s. There’s always a selection of boats for sale for less than $100,000. Cabo Rico was an outlier among manufacturers of the time, building serious cruising boats in Central America instead of Taiwan, but quality control was always excellent. The full keel is slightly cutaway, and the rudder is attached to the trailing edge. The prop is in an aperture and totally protected, but not well suited to backing into a slip. Full-keel boats may make some younger sailors cringe, but the CR 38 has a very soft ride in rough seas and heaves to effectively. It also has a solid fiberglass hull with a layer of balsa for insulation. Sometimes it’s noted that the hull is balsa-cored, but it’s not. After about hull number 40, lead was used instead of iron for internal ballast. The deck is balsa-cored, however, and there’s a substantial bulwark. Items to be wary of are the teak decks (most 38s have them) and the fittings supporting the bobstay.

A true cutter rig, the 38 has just under 1,000 square feet of working sail area and performs better than most people suspect. The staysail was originally set on a boom that cluttered the foredeck and limited sail shape. Many boats have been converted with furling staysails sans the boom — a nice upgrade. When the wind pipes up, the 38 tracks nicely with a reefed main and staysail. I encounter 38s all over the Caribbean. They’re easy to spot; they’re the beautiful boats in the anchorage.

Tayana Vancouver 42

Tayana Vancouver 42

Ta Yang, builder of Tayana sailboats, has been building capable cruising boats forever, it seems. The Robert Harris-designed Tayana Vancouver 42 has been a mainstay of the serious cruising fleet since the day it was launched in 1979, and is still in demand today. The company built 200 boats, mostly in the ’80s and early ’90s, although a few V42s were built into the 2000s. With a bit of digging and some haggling, you can find boats for less than $100,000, but they’re likely to be older models. As of this writing, yachtworld.com has eight V42s listed, with three asking less than $100,000.

I’ve encountered the V42 all over the world, and in my yacht-delivery days, I had the pleasure of delivering a couple of 42s up the East Coast and down to the Caribbean. The double-ended hull shape with a fin-skeg underbody is stiff and seaworthy, if not wickedly fast. Considering the rugged construction, with a solid fiberglass hull and balsa-cored deck, nobody has ever accused Ta Yang of going light on its boats. Ballast is internal iron, a massive single casting that weighs in at 11,800 pounds. Ta Yang has evolved as a builder, and later models included upgrades like vinylester resin and larger Yanmar diesels.

A true cutter, the V42 has a double-spreader rig and is heavily stayed. The seagoing deck is cambered to shed water. Teak decks, with all their virtues and vices, were common; I’d look for a boat that’s been de-teaked. Like the Corbin 39, the V42 came with either a center or aft cockpit, although most boats were aft-cockpit models. The aft cockpit is deep and secure, if a bit tight due to volume sacrificed by the canoe stern. The center cockpit is cramped but offers excellent visibility. The interior is lovely, with exquisite Taiwanese joinery. Although interior arrangements vary because Ta Yang encouraged owner input, across the board, this is a friendly boat for living aboard. The aft-cockpit model includes one head and a traditional layout with excellent light and ventilation. The center-­cockpit model features a large owner’s stateroom aft.

Wauquiez Pretorien 35

Wauquiez Pretorien 35

The Pretorien 35 does not pay homage to tradition. The Euro-style low-slung wedge deck and flattish lines were thoroughly modern when the Pretorien was launched in 1979. Sure, there are IOR influences in this well-proven Holman & Pye design, including a slightly pinched stern, cramped cockpit, and a high-aspect, short-boom mainsail that results in a large fore­triangle. But a small main is easy to handle offshore, especially in squally conditions, and a large poled-out furling genoa provides a low-stress way to cross oceans. The test of a design is revealed long after the launch, and the Pretorien has aged brilliantly. It’s often mistaken for a Swan or Baltic. Famed voyager and author Hal Roth chose a Pretorien for his last boat.

Below the water, which is what really matters at sea, the Pretorien pushes the right buttons for serious sailing. A fine entry provides enough of a forefoot to prevent pounding in lumpy conditions, and as on the Valiant 40, the fin keel incorporates a stub to which the external ballast is fastened. The rudder is mounted well aft for excellent steering control, especially on a deep reach, and is tucked behind a narrow but full-length skeg. The Pretorien displaces 13,000 pounds, of which 6,000 pounds is ballast, translating to a stiff, seakindly boat.

The construction is superb. The solid fiberglass hull includes longitudinal stringers that stiffen the panels and encapsulate the bulkheads. Tabbing and fiberglass work is first-rate throughout. Wauquiez was one of the first builders to use solid laminate beneath high-load deck fittings. The side decks are wide and, with the chainplates well inboard, easy to navigate. The interior arrangement is conventional, but ample beam amidships helps create a surprisingly spacious feel below.

There were 212 Pretoriens built during a seven-year production run, so there’s usually a good selection of boats on the used market. Today’s strong dollar makes European Pretoriens an excellent value.

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

Gulfstar 44

Gulfstar 44

Gulfstar had a terrible reputation in the early ’70s: It was infamous for producing wide-body motorsailers with tiny rigs and chintzy Formica interiors. Company founder Vince Lazzara was adept at reading market trends and upped his game in the late ’70s and ’80s. Lazzara, who also founded Columbia Yachts, was a veteran of the production-­sailboat wars and realized that buyers were demanding high-quality boats that sailed well. The Gulfstar 44 was launched in 1978, and 105 were sold before the company started producing the Hirsh 45 in 1985.

Some mistake the G44 for a Bristol, and it has a similar profile, right down to the teak toerail and raked cabin trunk. A sleek center-­cockpit design, the hull shape features a 5-foot-6-inch fin keel, a skeg-hung rudder and moderate proportions. I know the boat well, having delivered one from Bermuda to Annapolis and another from Fort Lauderdale to Boston. It has a nice ride in lumpy seas and powers up when the big genoa is drawing on a reach. The construction is typical of the time, with solid fiberglass hulls and cored decks. Gulfstars were known to blister, and it’s likely that any 44 you find will have had an epoxy bottom job along the way — and if it hasn’t, it will need one. The keel-stepped spar has an air draft of 55 feet. Some owners have modified the sloop rig with a staysail. The cockpit is roomy, especially for a center-cockpit design, although there’s not much of a bridgedeck. All sail controls are led aft. Lazzara was an early proponent of this feature, and the boat is user-friendly overall.

The interior sells the boat. It’s nicely finished in teak, and the layout is made for living aboard. The aft cabin includes an enormous double berth with an en suite head and stall shower. The main saloon is spacious and well ventilated, although beware of the plastic opening portlights. If you are looking for a comfortable, well-built center-cockpit cruiser but can’t find one that you can afford, track down a Gulfstar 44; you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Nordic 40

Any list of bluewater cruising sailboats must include a Robert Perry design. I could have easily put together nine Perry boats for this list. The Nordic 40 may surprise some, especially because 40 feet is an iconic length, bringing to mind such boats as the Valiant 40, Hinckley Bermuda 40, Bristol 40, Pacific Seacraft 40, Passport 40 and others. The trick is finding a 40-footer for less than $100,000. Nonetheless, the Nordic 40 and its larger sister ship, the 44, are among my favorite boats.

Based in Bellingham, Washington, Nordic produced world-class yachts during its brief production run in the 1980s. Only 40 Nordic 40s were launched between 1982 and 1987, but they’re worth seeking out on the used-boat market. The 40 features the classic double-ended Perry hull shape, with a fine entry, a deep and powerful fin keel, a skeg-mounted rudder positioned well aft, and a reverse transom. Freeboard is moderate and the sheer line is subtle, but to my eye, with its double-spreader rig and gently sloping deck line, the boat is poetry in the water.

The hull is solid fiberglass and the deck is balsa-cored, with solid laminates below loaded-up deck fittings. Original boats came with Navtec rod rigging and a hydraulic backstay, but many have been upgraded by now. Sail-control lines are led aft to the compact but functional T-shaped cockpit. The traveler is forward of the companionway, allowing for a cockpit dodger. The Nordic 40 is nimble in light to moderate breeze but can also stand up in a blow and heave to decently.

The interior is well suited to a cruising couple. It’s really a two-person boat, with a V-berth forward and large C-shaped galley aft, with plenty of counter space and a huge fridge. It includes the normal deft Perry touches — excellent sea berths, a separate stall shower and generous tankage. If you do find a Nordic 40 on the used market, be sure to take a hard look at the Westerbeke diesel and the V-drive transmission.

Pacific Seacraft 34

Pacific Seacraft 34

A handsome, nimble and capable double-ender by legendary designer Bill Crealock, the Pacific Seacraft 34 is well proven, with scores of ocean crossings in its wake.

After the boat was first launched as the Crealock 34 in 1979, Pacific Seacraft introduced a fifth model years later, a scaled-down version of the popular PS 37. Though expensive at the time, the 34 was another success story for one of America’s premier builders, and hundreds of boats were built in the company’s yard in Santa Ana, California. There is always a good selection of used boats available for less than $100,000. Another nice perk for used-boat buyers is that the 34 is back in production at the reincarnated Pacific Seacraft yard in Washington, North Carolina, providing an outlet for parts and advice. The company is now owned and operated by marine archaeologist Stephen Brodie and his father, Reid.

The 34 blends traditional values above the waterline with what was then a more modern underbody, with a long fin keel and skeg-hung rudder. A bit hefty at 13,500 pounds of displacement, the design otherwise is a study in moderation, and drawn with a keen eye toward providing a soft ride in a seaway and staying on good terms with Neptune in a blow.

The hull is solid fiberglass, and early decks were plywood-­cored before Pacific switched to end-grain balsa. The hull-to-deck joint incorporates a molded bulwark that offers added security when you’re moving about on deck, and a vertical surface for mounting stanchions.

Most 34s are cutter-rigged for versatility but carry moderate-­size genoas instead of high-cut yankees for more horsepower off the wind. Down below, the layout is traditional, but the 6-foot-4-inch headroom is a pleasant surprise. The Pacific Seacraft 34 is perfect for a cruising couple.

John Kretschmer is a delivery captain, adventurer and writer, whose own boat Quetzal , a 1987 Kaufman 47, has seen a refit or two over the years. His latest book is Sailing a Serious Ocean: Sailboats, Storms, Stories and Lessons Learned from 30 Years at Sea , also available on his website .

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15 Small Liveaboard Catamarans

small liveaboard sailboats for sale

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If you want to live on the sea, catamarans are probably the most comfortable way of doing it. Unlike monohulls, catamarans have two hulls, giving you a smooth sailing experience and more interior space. There are tons of small catamarans, each with its pros and cons.  

The smallest cruising/liveaboard sailing catamaran is the Smart Cat S280. With a length overall of 27.9 feet (8.5 meters), it offers the most economical and spacious living area you can find on any liveaboard catamaran today. 

In this article, I’ll talk about the Smart Cat S280, and then ill show you alternatives. This article is meant to give you examples of boats that might be interesting and it’s a jumping-off point for further research into what suits you the best.

Table of Contents

How To Pick a Small Catamaran

Small catamarans are great if you’re on a budget. They’re also ideal if you want a modest space without too much going on inside. However, every small-size catamaran varies in features and design. So, if you’re looking for one, there are a few essential factors you have to bear in mind.  

Performance

When choosing a catamaran , your decision depends on what level of performance you need from the boat. Your choice will often come from what you’re going to use the boat for. 

However, the performance of a catamaran is a critical factor for safety as well. For example, the sail plan significantly affects the catamaran’s stability offshore.

Some performance features you have to keep in mind when choosing a catamaran include:

  • Average Speed upwind and downwind
  • How much weight can be loaded before performance is impacted

Interior Layout

Despite their size, small catamarans come with a variety of living spaces. In between the hulls, you’ll find different types of amenities, including a kitchen, lounge, and dining area.  

Every catamaran comes with a unique arrangement for its cabins. Usually, you’ll also have cabins in the two hulls and sometimes a master cabin on the deck. The deck may also have a sitting space with trampoline areas to relax.

The cabins on a catamaran are sometimes referred to as berths. Manufacturers modify one or two berths to make a bathroom with a toilet and showerhead or “head.”

Exterior Design

The interior features are essential because they determine not only your living condition while onboard but also how easily the boat can be sailed, are all lines drawn to the cockpit?

Now that we know how to choose sailing catamarans, let’s look at the smallest liveaboard catamarans on the market today, starting with the most compact one.

Smart Cat S280: The Smallest Liveaboard Catamaran

The Smart Cat S280 is the smallest catamaran on the market today. The Korean-made catamaran offers a mix of space, shallow sailing, and affordability.

At the 2020 Miami Boat Show, the starting price of the Smart Cat S280 was $149,900.

It runs on a 19.8 Yamaha HorsePower engine with a 50 Horse Power option. Depending on your location, you can drop down or lift the engine out of the water. It holds a 102-liter (26.94-gallon) fuel tank and a 135-liter (35.66-gallon) water tank. 

The open hard-top version is ideal for summer sailing and boat parties. The cat is also available in a closed “house” version, allowing more privacy and climate protection. 

The boat features three queen-sized berths, office space, and a kitchen area. It has two living configurations:

  • Three cabins and one head
  • Two cabins and two heads

Each cabin berth has a double-sized bed. The bathroom contains a sink, a head and handheld shower, and an electric toilet. The wide lounge area with two trampolines can accommodate at least four seating positions. It also contains a drop-down anchor with an electric windlass.

The interior is fitted with broad windows and drop-down blinds, cabinet lockers, tour-size hanging closets, and LED step lights to guide you when lights are dim. It also has an 18,000 BTU air conditioning system controlled from the inside. The ceiling has a vinyl finishing, an upgrade from the carpet fabric finishing in previous models.

The kitchen space comes with storage cabinets, a DC 12 V 50-liter (13.2-gallon) refrigerator, enclosed refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, electric stove burner, and a sink. It is wired with a Fusion audio system that includes two speakers.

The Smart Cat S280 supplies hot water to the kitchen and bathroom, thanks to an AC 120 V 6-gallon water heater. The head floor is wooden, while the cockpit has a patterned Seadek floor. 

The boat has a VHF radio, a Garmin sail pack navigation package, and a Garmin GPS Chart Plotter. It also includes wind speed and direction equipment, a depth sounder, and a compass. The rigging is performed with a steering wheel.

Specifications

The dimensions of the Smart Cat S280 are:

Max Bridge Clearance46.2 feet (14.08 meters)
Max Draft2.82 feet (0.85 meters)
Beam17.4 feet (5.3 meters)
Length Overall27.9 feet (8.5 meters)
Weight4.5 tons (4,500 kg)

The Smart Cat S280 has made its mark as the ideal small-size cruise cat. However, there are other options on the market.

Other Small Sailing Catamarans

The Dean 365 is suitable for cruising coastal grounds. Made by Dean Catamarans in South Africa, it is 36 feet (10.97 meters) long with single or twin diesel engines. It can be configured to have four cabins and one showerhead or three cabins and two showerheads.

At $50,000, it features:

  • A 3-foot draft (0.91 meters)
  • A mast height of 46 feet (14.02 meters)
  • A Fixed Keels underbody
  • Weight of 6 tons (5,443.1 kg)
  • Speed of 6 to 7 knots
  • A beam of 17.7 feet (5.39 meters)

The Gemini 105 is one of the flagship boats of Gemini Catamarans. Initially manufactured in Maryland, the compact cat is now made in Florida. It’s 33 feet (10.05 meters) long with a layout of three cabins and one head.

Costing around $100,000, it contains:

  • Mast height of 47 feet (14.32 meters)
  • Maximum draft height of 5 feet (1.52 meters)
  • One diesel engine
  • Centerboards underbody
  • A beam of 14 feet (4.26 meters)
  • Speed of 8 knots
  • Weight of 4.8 tons (4,800 kg)

At 36 feet (10.97 meters), the Mahe 36 has two inboard diesel engines with sail drives. It contains three cabins and one head, or two cabins and two heads. 

Commonly found in the Caribbean, it costs about $300,000 and comes with:

  • A maximum draft height of 3.6 feet (1.09 meters)
  • Mast height of 55 feet (16.76 meters)
  • Fixed Keels underbody
  • A beam of 19.4 feet (5.91 meters)
  • A weight of 5.5 tons (4,989.52 kg)
  • A speed of 7 to 11 knots

Endeavor 36

The Endeavor 36 is a three-cabin catamaran commonly found in the United States coastal areas. This catamaran was made for easy handling and comfort. It is powered by twin diesel engines and costs about $100,000. 

It is 36 feet (10.97 meters) long and features:

  • A mast height of 47 feet (14.32 meters)
  • A maximum draft of 2.75 feet (0.84 meters)
  • An underbody of Fixed Keels
  • A beam of 15 feet (4.57 meters)
  • A speed of up to 8 knots

This catamaran is 37 feet (11.27 meters) long with an interior layout of four cabins. Running on twin diesel engines, it costs about $150,000. 

It also has:

  • A maximum draft height of 3.35 feet (1.02 meters)
  • A mast height of 55 feet (16.76 meters)
  • A beam of 19.68 feet (5.99 meters)
  • A fixed Keels underbody
  • A weight of 4.5 tons (4,500 kg)
  • A speed of up to 11 knots

Seawind 1000

The Seaweed 1000 is an Australian-made catamaran that is 37 feet (11.27 meters) long. It’s ideal for bluewater cruising with four cabins, one head, and a twin gas outboard engine. 

It costs over $150,000 and features:

  • A maximum draft height of 3.2 feet (0.97 meters)
  • A beam of 19.42 feet (5.92 meters)
  • A weight of 4 tons (4,000 kg)
  • A speed of 4.5 knots

PDQ 36 Capella

Designed by Alan Slater, the PDQ 36 Capella is a 36-foot (10.97 meter) long catamaran that costs around $100,000. Its engines can be single or twin gas outboard. It can also run on a twin diesel inboard engine. It contains two or three cabins and one or two heads. 

Some of its other features include:

  • A maximum draft height of 2.8 feet (0.85 meters)
  • A maximum mast height of 47 feet (14.32 meters)
  • A beam of 18.25 feet (5.56 meters)
  • A speed of 7 knots

Lagoon 37 TPI

The Lagoon 37 TPI is 37 feet (11.27 meter) long and costs over $100,000. It is a rare classic catamaran with three or four cabins and two heads. It uses two inboard diesel engines. 

  • A maximum draft height of 4 feet (1.21 meters)
  • A speed of 7 to 14 knots
  • A beam of 20.17 feet (6.15 meters)
  • A weight of 5.3 tons (5,300 kg)

This catamaran is 29.25 feet (8.92 meters) long, making it one of the smallest and most affordable on this list. With either a single gas outboard engine or twin inboard diesel engines, it’s an excellent catamaran for sailing the North Sea. 

It costs about $50,000, and features:

  • A tabernacle mast
  • A mast height of 54.5 feet (16.61 meters)
  • A draft of 3.33 feet (1.02 meters)

Prout 37 Snowgoose

The Prout 37 Snowgoose is 37 feet (11.27 meters) long and came after the Prout 35. It’s a great choice for bluewater sailing with three cabins and one head. They cost about $100,000 and run on a single outdrive engine, although some rare models have twin inboard engines. 

They also contain:

  • A maximum draft of 2.08 feet (0.63 meters)
  • A mast height of 40 feet (12.19 meters)
  • A weight of 5.5 tons (5,500 kg)
  • A draft of 3 feet (0.91 meters)
  • A beam of 6.25 feet (1.91 meters)

The Lagoon 380 is a bluewater catamaran that runs on twin diesel engines. Its price is $100,000, and it measures 37 feet (11.27 meters) in length. The boat launched in 1999 and is primarily found in Europe and the United States.

Some of its features include:

  • Two or three cabins and two heads
  • A mast height of 56.1 feet (17.09 meters)
  • A maximum draft of 3.83 feet (1.17 meters)
  • A beam of 21.42 feet (6.53 meters)
  • A speed of up to 10 knots
  • A weight of 7.1 tons (7,100 kg)

Prout Event 34

The Prout Event 34 looks just like the Snowgoose, although the latter is slightly bigger. It has two diesel engines that can support bluewater sailing. At 34 feet (10.36 meters), it costs nearly $30,000. 

The Prout Event 34’s interior includes three berths, one head, and office space. This catamaran is not commonly found worldwide, though a few can be located on European and American coastlines. 

It contains:

  • Maximum draft height of 2.72 feet (0.82 meters)
  • Mast height of 30.25 feet (9.22 meters)
  • A beam of 15.7 feet (4.78 meters)
  • A speed of 7 to 9 knots

Endeavor 30

The Endeavor 30 is 30 feet (9.14 meters) long with two cabins, a galley, a dining area, and two heads. Manufactured by Florida-based Endeavor Catamaran Corporation, the $80,000 catamaran has:

  • Sails that reach 7.5 knots
  • Mast height of 48 feet (14.63 meters)
  • Maximum draft of 2.83 feet (0.86 meters)
  • Headroom of 6.33 feet (1.93 meters)
  • A beam of 14.5 feet (4.42 meters)
  • A weight of 3.5 tons (3,500 kg)

Maine Cat 30

The Maine Cat 30 is a 30-foot (9.14 meters) long catamaran that costs over $100,000. It features a 26-gallon fuel tank and a 63-gallon (286.4 liter) freshwater tank. It has three double berths and one single berth.

The Maine Cat 30 contains:

  • A weight of 3 tons (3,000 kg)
  • 18-foot beam (5.48 meters)
  • Maximum draft of 5 feet (1.52 meters)
  • A speed of 5.5 to 6.5 knots
  • A mast height of 48 feet (14.63 meters)

Key Takeaways

The smallest liveaboard catamaran, the Smart Cat S280, is 27.9 feet (8.5 meters) long. However, numerous other options are available if you are looking for a small liveaboard catamaran.

Each of these options comes with different interior designs, exterior features, and performance specifications, so look at all your options to pick the best one for you!

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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10 Best Small Sailboats (Under 20 Feet)

Best Small Sailboats Under 20 Feet | Life of Sailing

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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Buying a yacht in Russia

Would you like to buy a dream yacht? Will it be a motor or sailing ship? A luxury ocean yacht for sailing long distances or a small model adapted for fishing? The catalog of our company contains a large number of proposals for the sale of yachts in Russia and other countries. We also offer our services in the purchase of yachts in various technical conditions. Thanks to a wide selection of offers, both beginners in yachting and experienced professionals can take advantage of our services - an impressive assortment of vessels successfully combines with a wide range of prices.

You can choose a suitable vessel and buy a yacht in Russia using the capabilities of our company - experienced brokers are employed in 2yachts, ready to confidently and safely guide you through the process of buying or selling a vessel.

Before putting each offer to public access, we carefully check the legal cleanliness of the vessel and study the history of its operation. The managers of the company engaged in this market for a long time and possessing practical knowledge on the operation of yachts in different regions can help you with its purchase and sale.

You can choose a yacht for purchase in Russia , and we will draw up a formal contract, ensure the legal purity of the transaction and consultations on any aspects of owning a ship. At the same time, the confidentiality of your personal information is guaranteed.

If you are looking for a sailing yacht with high driving performance or a motor yacht with excellent controllability, then contacted us at. 2yachts company is a service for selecting the best trading offers from popular world yacht manufacturers. With us you can pick up a yacht that is a combination of unsurpassed quality, functional and efficient equipment and innovative solutions - a vessel that brings maximum pleasure from boat trips.

You can buy a yacht in Sochi or in St. Petersburg in order to be able to get an unforgettable experience of being on the water alone, with a group of friends or surrounded by family members. A walk on a sea yacht is an ideal way to get away from the bustle of the city with its eternal traffic jams and unplanned phone calls to enjoy beaches with azure waters, as well as romantic views and picturesque sunsets. Sea yachts are designed for long-distance travel and have great power, they are also distinguished by good maneuverability and dynamism. We will help you realize your dream, if you feel a craving for adventure and newness - we will choose a yacht with the best value for money.

Factors Affecting Cost

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  • Manufacturer, or shipyard - the most famous manufacturers with expensive products are concentrated mainly in European countries, and the most budget yachts are assembled in shipyards of the countries of Asia and the Middle East;
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Also, sailing yachts for sale in Russia cost the buyer less than similar motor lengths, but yachts with a history do not always cost less than recently launched ones. Often, the previous owners are engaged in the modernization of the vessel, installing expensive additional equipment on it or customizing the yacht - in this case, the price for it increases significantly. And sailing yachts often participate in regattas, where they can take prizes and eventually acquire a name - this also leads to a rise in the cost of the vessel.

Note that the cost of a yacht in Russia will be significantly different depending on the length of the vessel. You can always check the final cost of the vessel with a yacht broker, and since this market is very lively, the price can change even during the time during which you pick up a yacht.

You can find out the price of the selected vessel and its technical parameters in our catalog, and you can leave a request for purchase directly on the website, online. To choose a yacht for purchase , you can use the help of our broker for the sale of yachts - our specialists are in collaboration with their colleagues around the world to be able to cover the entire market. Ask our manager your questions to get detailed information on the yacht you are interested in.

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Boats for Sale in Portugal

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There is plenty for the yachting enthusiast to explore off the mainland, not forgetting the islands of Madeira and the Azores in the Atlantic Ocean for more experienced sailors.

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Azimut Fly 78

2024 Azimut Fly 78

Sunreef 60 Sailing

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Azimut Magellano 76

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Punch 2110

2025 Punch 2110

Riva 75 Venere

2008 Riva 75 Venere

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Azimut 55S

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2005 Fairline Targa 62

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Beneteau Gran Turismo 49

2017 Beneteau Gran Turismo 49

Azimut Atlantis 43

2015 Azimut Atlantis 43

Prestige 420F

2019 Prestige 420F

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  1. Used Live Aboard Yachts For Sale

    small liveaboard sailboats for sale

  2. Liveaboard Boats for Sale

    small liveaboard sailboats for sale

  3. Liveaboard Boats for Sale

    small liveaboard sailboats for sale

  4. 10 Affordable Sailboats Under 50 Grand

    small liveaboard sailboats for sale

  5. 13 Best Liveaboard Sailboats (under 30 & 50 ft)

    small liveaboard sailboats for sale

  6. Liveaboard Boats For Sale Virginia

    small liveaboard sailboats for sale

COMMENTS

  1. 13 Best Liveaboard Sailboats (under 30 & 50 ft)

    Find out the best liveaboard sailboats for small budgets and spaces, from 20 to 50 feet long. Learn about their features, comfort, performance, and prices in this guide.

  2. Live Aboard Sailboat Boats for sale

    Catalina 30 Sailboat for sale or live aboard $15,000 Cowichan Bay, British Columbia Year 1980 Make - Model Catalina 30 Category Sloop Sailboats Length 30.0 Posted Over 1 Month

  3. Live Aboard Boats for Sale by their Owners

    Live Aboard Boats for Sale by their Owners In collating this listing of live aboard boats for sale, we've taken the view that living aboard a sailboat smaller than 32 feet is unlikely to provide her occupant (s) with a high degree of comfort - nor would a stripped-out, light-displacement racer of any length.

  4. 13 Dirt-Cheap Liveaboard Sailboats (That Are Actually Good)

    In this article, you'll find a list of classic liveaboard sailboats, as well as a few original finds that can fit your budget. Liveaboard sailboats that are cheap but actually good include Westsail 32, Alberg 30, Tayana 37, Catalina 30, Ericson 35, Albin Vega 27, Bristol 32, Morgan 323, Contessa 32, Pearson 365, Hunter 31, Cal 34, and Tartan 30 ...

  5. 6 Most Affordable Liveaboard Sailboats

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

  6. Used Live Aboard Yachts For Sale

    If you're looking for a used live aboard boat or yacht for sale, let the team at United help you find the right vessel. Living on a yacht or boat is a big decision so we will help you find the perfect one that meets your needs.

  7. Liveaboard Boats for sale

    All types of boats for sale could be classed as a liveaboard boat. For example a powerboat or cruising sailboat, houseboats, or barges, even narrow boats. Some interesting types of liveaboard boats may be ex-commercial boats. Liveaboard is becoming a real trend worldwide and many new manufacturers are in the market building stunning, affordable ...

  8. 5 Liveaboard Boats Under 200K

    Lenny Rudow picks 5 favorite boats for the affordable live-aboard lifestyle in 2021.

  9. Best Liveaboard Boats Under 600K

    Some look like actual floating houses rather than boats, others look like more modern and sleek vessels. The 2021 Planus Nautica Aquadomus houseboat in the photo above was listed for sale on YachtWorld for $388,119 by Planus Nautica. With a balanced distribution of space, the capacity is extended to 12 people onboard.

  10. Liveaboard Boats for sale in United States of America

    Explore a vast selection of new and used Liveaboard Boat in United States of America on Rightboat. Search, compare, and find your dream boat today. Trusted by over 500,000 buyers monthly!

  11. Liveaboard Boats for sale in Florida

    Explore a vast selection of new and used Liveaboard Boat in Florida on Rightboat. Search, compare, and find your dream boat today. Trusted by over 500,000 buyers monthly!

  12. Liveaboard Boats For Sale

    View Liveaboard boats available for sale at Pacific Boat Brokers. Check out used vessels adapted to liveaboard. List your liveaboard with us for a hassle-free sale - no charge unless it sells.

  13. 10 Best Used Cruising Sailboats & Liveaboards

    My list of some of the best liveaboard sailboats is eclectic and includes a mix of well-known and obscure manufacturers, but all the boats are linked in three ways: All are top-quality vessels capable of crossing oceans.

  14. 15 Small Liveaboard Catamarans

    There are tons of small catamarans, each with its pros and cons. The smallest cruising/liveaboard sailing catamaran is the Smart Cat S280. With a length overall of 27.9 feet (8.5 meters), it offers the most economical and spacious living area you can find on any liveaboard catamaran today.

  15. 10 Best Small Sailboats (Under 20 Feet)

    Most small sailboats under 20 feet 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.

  16. Houseboats for sale

    Find houseboats for sale near you, including boat prices, photos, and more. Locate boat dealers and find your boat at Boat Trader!

  17. The 80 Best Liveaboard Boats

    Come learn about the best liveaboard boats! You will find out the best size boat for liveaboard, what kinds of boats you can live on and more.

  18. Sail Cruiser boats for sale

    Find Sail Cruiser boats for sale in your area & across the world on YachtWorld. Offering the best selection of boats to choose from.

  19. Affordable Live-Aboard Boats

    A guide to live-aboard boating and expanding options while Contracting Space.

  20. Liveaboard Sailboats for Sale

    Let's welcome our new members, and introduce them to our associated website https://www.sailboat-cruising.com/, where they will find a huge amount of information ...

  21. maine boats

    • • • • • Compact 16 Sailboat and trailer for sale 8/14 · Sebago $4,800

  22. Sailing lessons and live aboard courses

    10 days live aboard course on power or sailing yacht. The key objective of the course is to teach candidates to become a recreational sailing yacht skipper and be able to charter and handle big cruising yachts on their own.

  23. Yacht for Sale in Russia (92 Used Boat)

    Sale of yachts and boats in Russia at the most affordable prices, from $10000. Compare prices and choose your dream sailing or motor yacht right now! We have the best deals on the yacht market - 2Yachts.

  24. Boats for Sale in Portugal

    Boats for Sale in Portugal As well as the coastal waters around Lisbon, Cascais and Estoril, Portugal has coastline stretching for nearly 1,000 Km from the Algarve to Viana do Castelo near the borders with Spain.