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The Different Parts Of A Sailboat Explained

A sailboat consists of hundreds of parts, each with its specific term and function. From stern to bow, keel to mast, each part and its equipment plays a vital role in making the vessel seaworthy and able to sail.

In this guide, I’ll show you most of the components so you can better understand what they are and their function. We’ll begin with the main components, move to the basic features, and finish with our interior and equipment.

The main parts of a sailboat

The main parts of a sailboat are the key components that make it a vessel able to sail. You’ll notice that the structure has several distinct differences from powerboats.

We can categorize the main parts into the following:

Hull: The main structure, or “body” part of a boat.
Keel: The heavy fin at the bottom allows stability under sail.
Rudder: The fin sticking down at the stern, allowing us to steer the vessel.
Mast: The “spars” or “poles” holding the sails.
Rigging: The standing rig is the wires that supports the mast. The running rigging is all the lines that control the sails.
Boom: The horizontal spar supporting the bottom of the mainsail.
Sails: The canvas used to harness the energy of the wind.

Let’s dig a bit deeper into each of the components.

Hull – The main structure

A sailboat’s hull is the vessel’s main body or structure. The shape is vital to the boat’s performance and stability, and you have probably seen boats in many different forms. Older vessels are typically narrow, with a rounded underbody and a small stern. Modern designs have a flatter belly and broad stern supporting dual helm stations.

One of the hull’s primary functions is to displace water and provide buoyancy to keep the boat afloat. The hull is also the structure that holds the vessel’s living compartments and all its equipment. The main structure must be strong enough to withstand the forces of the water and any rough weather conditions that Mother Nature might throw at it.

Fiberglass (GRP), steel, aluminum, and wood are the most commonly used hull materials, each with pros and cons.

You can learn more about hull materials and their strengths in this article .

A monohull is a type of sailboat that has a single hull. Monohulls are classified into two categories based on weight and shape: planing and displacement hulls.

Sailboats with more than one hull are called multihulls. There are two types of multihulls: catamarans, which have two, and trimarans, which have three. These boats are typically designed with planing hulls.

Keel – The fin under the boat

The keel of a sailboat is a structural fin that extends downward from the bottom of the hull. There are several types of keels, each with unique characteristics and advantages. They all serve the same fundamental purpose of stabilizing the boat when we sail by adding lateral resistance in the water and weight at the vessel’s bottom.

Standard keel designs include:

Lifting Keel

Some sailboats have a retractable centerboard functioning as their keel, allowing them to take the boat into shallower areas.

Rudder – To steer the boat

The rudder is a flat surface that sits perpendicular to the waterline. It is connected to the boat by a pivot point, allowing it to swivel left and right. When the steering wheel or tiller is turned, the rudder moves, creating drag in the water causing the boat to turn. The size and shape of the rudder can vary depending on the size and type of boat.

The most commonly seen rudder designs:

Full skeg-supported
Semi skeg-supported

Skeg-supported rudders are structurally one of the most reliable and robust constructions, but they are less efficient than a balanced rudder performance-wise. Balanced rudders pivot around their vertical center, giving less drag in the water and higher maneuverability at the cost of being a more vulnerable construction.

Twin rudders are often seen on modern performance sailboats with a wide stern. When the sailboat heel over , the leeward rudder gets better track through the water than a single rudder placed at the vessel’s center line. Contrary to some misconceptions, they can’t be controlled individually, even if the boat has two steering wheels.

Mast and Rigging – Supporting the sails

The mast is the long vertical spar that extends upward from the deck of a sailboat and holds the sails. It is the tallest part of the boat and is typically made of wood, aluminum, or carbon fiber. The mast is held in place by stays and shrouds, which form the sailboat’s standing rigging.

Depending on the rig the boat is manufactured with, there are several different types of masts. For example, a sloop-rigged sailboat will have only one main mast, while a ketch-rigged vessel will have a smaller additional mizzen mast placed further aft from the main mast.

There are two types of rigging:

The Standing rigging consists of the stays and shrouds that keep the mast or masts in place.
The Running rigging is the lines we use to hoist, lower, and control the sails.

Pro Tip: “S par” is a general term for a pole made of a solid material like wood, metal, or composite and is used to support a boat’s sail. The mast, boom, spreaders, and poles are defined as spars.

Boom – Supporting the mainsail

The boom is a horizontal beam extending from the mast and supporting the mainsail’s tack and clew (bottom two corners). It is attached to the mast by a hinge called a Gooseneck .

We use the boom to control the shape and angle of the mainsail to optimize its efficiency and power. Some booms also have a Vang or Rod-Kicker installed to assist in trimming the mainsail.

Sails – The canvas used to harness the energy of the wind

Most vessels have at least two sails, depending on the rig type and boat setup.

The Mainsail flies behind the mast, on top of the boom. Although it may not always be the largest sail on the vessel, we commonly refer to it as “the main.”

The Headsail(s ), located in front of the mast, are often of different sizes and shapes, and many sailboats have more than one. The Jib and Genoa are two of the most common types.

Different types of sails are used for various sail plans and situations, and you can learn more about them in this guide .

Now that we had a look at the main parts of the boat, let us dive deeper and look at the rest of the vessel.

The starboard and port side of the boat

Learning about the boat’s components is very important, but we must also know how to orient ourselves on the vessel. Using the words “left and right” on onboard often leads to confusion.

If you refer to something on the left side of the boat, the person facing you will be confused. He won’t know if you are referring to his or your left. This is where the terms “Port” and “ Starboard ” make better sense.

When facing the front of the boat or the bow , your left side of the boat is the port side, and the right-hand side is the starboard . If you turn around and face the back of the boat or the stern , your right-hand side will be the port side.

A red light identifies the port side of a vessel.
A green light identifies the starboard side of a vessel.

Windward and Leeward

The windward side of the boat is the side facing the wind. If the wind comes from your right-hand side while facing forward, the starboard side is windward. This will be the boat’s high side as the wind heels the boat over.
The leeward side of the boat is the side opposite to the wind. This will be the lower side of the ship while sailing as the wind heels the boat over.

Windward and leeward are two of the most important aspects to understand when sailing and navigating. Not only to identify equipment and gear on each side of the boat but to avoid collisions when sailing close to other vessels. There are rules on the water dictating which boat is “Stand On” and which has to “Give Way” depending on whether you are the windward or the leeward vessel in the situation.

Read this article to access a free course on navigation rules .

Basic parts of a sailboat

The boat’s bow is the front part, typically shaped like a “V” to cut through the waves. Larger vessels often have a locker for their anchor chain in this section, holding the anchor at the front.

The midship section is the center of the boat. Some refer to this part as amidships.

The stern is the rear or back part of the boat. It is also referred to as the aft . I’ve had French crew calling the stern the butt of the vessel, which is funny but also correct!

The beam is the widest part of the boat. Also referred to as the sides on the middle.

The transom is a flat surface across the stern of the boat.

The waterline is the part where the hull (body) of the boat meets the water. Many vessels have a painted stripe to mark the waterline, indicating how loaded the ship is. If you have too much stuff on board, the waterline goes underwater, and it is time to do some housekeeping!

The freeboard is the vertical part of the ship side between the water and the deck. When you see a blue boat like Ellidah, the freeboard is the blue part.

The deck is the “floor” of the boat when you are outside. You have probably heard the term “All hands on deck!” The front deck is the deck space in front of the mast. Side decks are the decks on the boat’s sides.

The mid-deck is between the cockpit and the mast. The aft deck is the deck behind the cockpit. Sailboats with aft cockpits often don’t have any aft decks, but some have a swimming platform instead.

The cockpit is the boat’s steering position and where you will find the helm.

The helm is the position the helmsman uses to steer the boat. Smaller sailboats often use a tiller to navigate, while most bigger yachts have one or two steering wheels.

Main parts below deck (inside the boat)

Let us look at the interior to highlight and learn about the parts we have below the deck.

The Companionway

The companionway is the “front door” of the boat. This is where the steps lead from the cockpit or deck down below. It is usually opened and closed using a hatch, two doors, or a plate.

The Galley

The galley is the boat’s kitchen. This is where sailors prepare their delicious meals.

The Saloon

The saloon is basically the boat’s living room, usually where you find the settee and dinette. This is where delicious meals from the galley are served together with refreshing beverages in good company.

The settee is the sofa or couch in a boat. It is also used as a sea berth to sleep in when sailing.

The dinette is the area where you can sit down at a table and eat your dinner. It’s also perfect for consuming rum and a game of cards in good company.

A cabin is often used as a bedroom in a boat but is not necessarily where you sleep. Many boats have more than one cabin.

A berth is a place in the boat where you can sleep. This doesn’t necessarily have to be a bed and can often include the sleeping space in the saloon. Sea-berth usually refers to a sleeping position where you are tucked well in and can sleep when the boat is heeling over and moving around.

The head is the toilet on a boat. If your skipper tells you to go and clean the head, getting out the shampoo won’t do you any good!

Nav station

The navigation station is usually a chart table and a console with mysterious instruments like radios, switchboards, and complicated electronics. This is where adventures are planned and the skipper’s favorite seat onboard.

The bilge is a space in the bottom of the hull where water collects and sometimes a storage space for all sorts of things. It usually contains a bilge pump to pump out water that finds its way into the boat in various places.

A v-berth is a bed in the front cabin shaped like a V.

A bulkhead is a wall inside the boat, usually supporting the structure.

Hardware and Equipment

Sailboats come equipped with a variety of different hardware and equipment. While the specific items may vary from boat to boat, there are some essentials that nearly every sailboat has.

A winch is a metal drum that gives you a mechanical advantage and is used to control and tighten lines. These can be operated by turning a line around it and pulling manually or by a winch handle to get more force.

Most modern winches are so-called “self-tailing,” which means they lock the line on so you can winch the line without holding on to it. Some boats even have electrical winches operated by a button.

A cleat is a fitting used to fasten a rope. Most boats have at least 6 of these. One on each side on the bow, midship and stern. These are used to secure the boat to a mooring buoy or key. Many ships have more cleats than this for various lines and ropes, and they can be used for anything as they are strong points fitted to the hull.

The sprayhood is the boat’s windshield that protects the people in the cockpit from sea spray. Some vessels have a canvas sprayhood that can be folded down or removed. Others have solid sprayhoods, often called a hard dodger or a doghouse .

The bimini is the cockpit’s “roof.” It protects you from the elements and shelters you from spray, rain, and burning sun rays! A bimini can be made of canvas or hard material. A hard bimini can also be called a hardtop .

Dinghy

A dinghy is a little boat you use to get from the mothership to shore when you are at anchor, also called a tender or annex . It can be everything from a small inflatable rubber kayak to a RIB or even a solid boat.

An essential and valuable piece of kit as it is the daily driver for most cruisers. It is like the car of a land crab, used for all commuting on the water and hauling important stuff like beer, rum, and food onboard. Dinghies often have electric or petrol engines, which we call outboards.

Dinghies are also great to use for watersports, such as wakeboarding!

Like Captain Ron said in the movie, fenders are the rubber bumper things you hang off your boat to prevent it from scratching against something like the pontoon or another ship. It is conveniently also used to sit on or as a backrest while relaxing on deck.

A boat hook is a long stick with a hook at the end. Used to grab lines, items, and stuff that is too far to reach by hand, like cushions flying overboard. It is also convenient as a tool to push the boat away from another craft or the key. Most vessels have them on board.

The guard rail can be a flexible wire or a solid metal rail surrounding the boat to prevent us from falling overboard. Some also use a net as an addition for increased safety.

The pushpit is a metal guard rail around the stern of the boat. This is where the guard rail is secured on the stern: a common place to mount the BBQ, life raft, and the outboard for the dinghy.

The pulpit is the metal guardrail on the bow. This is where the guard rail is secured onto the bow.

The stanchions are the metal bars that keep the guard rail in place around the boat between the pushpit and the pulpit.

An arch is a typical structure made of stainless steel on the back of a boat and is often used to mount a variety of items like antennas, radars, solar panels, wind generators, etc. It is also convenient to use for lifting the dinghy and its outboard.

Ground Tackle

The ground tackle consists of several things:

Your anchor
Your anchor chain
The link between the two
The connection between the chain and your boat

It includes all equipment holding your boat to the ground. Larger boats sometimes have two anchors on the bow.

A windlass is a winch that hoists and lowers the anchor and chain. Most boats have one on the bow and some on the stern. These incredible things can be electrical or manual (some are both) and are essential to anchor your boat when not in a port or marina.

VHF stands for “Very High-Frequency Radio.” It broadcasts on the VHF network and allows you to communicate with others around you. Sadly, you won’t be able to tune in to your favorite radio show on these.

Still, they are essential for contacting other boats and port authorities. It is also the radio you will transmit an emergency mayday over in case of emergency. VHF radios sometimes require a license, depending on the country you are in.

Chartplotter

A Chartplotter is a navigation computer that shows various information on a screen, like charts, routes, radar images, etc. It is another vital piece of equipment that helps you navigate and maneuver the boat.

Final words

I hope this guide has been helpful and not too overwhelming for you. We’ve covered many of the parts of a sailboat and its terms and functions, but this article only touches on the basics. If you want to keep learning about sailing, I have written several other guides to help you get started.

Now that you have a basic understanding of sailboats, it’s time to take the next step and dive into a sailboat’s standing rigging .

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Skipper, Electrician and ROV Pilot

Robin is the founder and owner of Sailing Ellidah and has been living on his sailboat since 2019. He is currently on a journey to sail around the world and is passionate about writing his story and helpful content to inspire others who share his interest in sailing.

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An Insider's Take on the Inside Passage

Tackling this fabled west coast circuit can be intimidating. but with a well-planned itinerary, sound boat, good crew — and these expert tips — it’s heaven on earth..

The Inside Passage up the West Coast is one of those bucket-list trips for many American and Canadian boaters. At more than 1,000 miles end to end, the network of passages that weave through the islands of the Pacific Northwest to Alaska contains a lifetime of places to explore. The Passage begins to the south at Olympia, Washington, in Puget Sound, then snakes its way north through more than 600 miles of Canada's British Columbia before winding through the southeast Alaska panhandle from Ketchikan, past Juneau, all the way north to Skagway.

Tracy Arm fjord, located south of Juneau, offers breathtaking views including waterfalls, sheer rock walls, icebergs, and a variety of wildlife, such as black bears. (Photos: Christine Smith)

The scenery is astonishing. This is a place of stark beauty and amazing contrasts. There are stunning high-sided fjords in the north sections with tidewater glaciers, miles upon miles of conifer-covered shorelines with secluded anchorages that include views of snow-capped mountains, remote fishing villages, and to the south, even a few big cities. There is wildlife everywhere: whales feeding in quiet passages, bears wandering along the beach, bald eagles perched in trees along the shore. Bring a wildlife guide, because the volume and variety of species are plentiful.

Killer whales are a common sight, most often between early May and early June, but may be spotted through September. (Photo: Christine Smith)

Best of all, it's almost entirely in protected waters, so is suitable for boats of any size within reason. The boating season in the region runs from early March through late October, and some boaters even cruise the southern sections in the winter. When it comes to boaters and bucket lists, these are cruising grounds that, once checked off, prompt an immediate urge to return. So, before you head north to Alaska, here are some simple tips that my wife, Christine, and I have developed, after completing this passage from Bellingham, Washington, all the way to southeast Alaska every charter season for several years aboard our 1929 converted 65-foot wood cannery tug.

10 Firsthand Tips To Make Your Own Inside Passage Cruise Safer And More Enjoyable:

1. have a reliable shoreside contact..

A reliable shoreside contact is a must-have for Inside Passage cruisers.

This is hardly a full-time job, but someone to answer your texts or other communications, receive packages and ship them on to you, or occasionally pass on a weather report, is invaluable. Mostly, it's nice to know you have a contact person, and it may only cost you flowers and a bottle of wine.

2. Get a satellite texting device.

There isn't cellphone coverage for much of the Inside Passage, so these little devices allow you to send and receive a short text message from anywhere. We use a Garmin inReach (about $300), but it's also available from SPOT. Not only can you contact people, you can have it track you so others can see where you are and know you're OK. More than once, my sister has checked in on us because we hadn't moved for a day or two. (We were fine.) We now carry two and use the other in our skiff for exploring and shore excursions. In some of the high-sided fjords, VHF is useless, but the inReach comes through.

3. Sign up to be a "Known Shipper" with Alaska Airlines.

This little detail can save you tons of hassle. Alaska Airlines has a fantastic air-cargo system called Goldstreak that you can use to get parts (or almost anything else) shipped in case of a breakdown. Even if you have to hire a local to do the repair, being able to get the parts can mean the difference between being stuck at a dock for days or continuing on.

Our system is to buy the part/piece/ equipment and have it overnighted to our shoreside person. We've even done this via the inReach. She takes it to the airport, and we get it later the next day. You may never need this, but it only takes a few minutes to sign up , although it takes a while to get approved.

In the southern half of the British Columbia coast, Kenmore Air offers floatplane passenger service to a number of locations. It's also able to transport boat parts, so if you're broken down in that area, the company can help. Because of the international border, there are some simple requirements: It can only transport "emergency boat parts to U.S.-registered vessels in distress" in its northern service areas (Campbell River and the Northern Inside Passage). Make sure your shoreside person can provide Kenmore with a receipt or invoice showing its value, too, because Canadian Customs (CBSA) will require it for all items, new or refurbished.

4. Get a good tide and current guide.

The tidal rapids in the southern section of the Inside Passage can cause anxiety among first-time cruisers, but they're surprisingly easy if you show up at the right time, at slack water. And while most electronic navigation programs will have the times of slack and max, the paper guide will confirm it for you, and give you peace of mind. There are lots of choices for a paper guide. We use Ports and Passes even though it's available on our Navionics, OpenCPN, and Coastal Explorer. Once you know the time of slack water, plan so you arrive a little early and you can go right through. If you're going in the direction of the tide, that's the perfect accelerator; use it to your advantage by positioning yourself at the right time.

5. Get the right guidebooks.

People fret a lot about what to buy. There are so many choices of cruising guides. There are numerous guides for sections of the trip, the San Juans, the Broughtons, the Secret Coast, and so on. But the guides that cover the most area with the most information are the "Exploring" books: Exploring the South Coast of B.C. , Exploring the North Coast of B.C., and Exploring Southeast Alaska . They also offer the best picture of cruising in this area. For wildlife guides, you'll want The Sibley Guide to Birds, Plants of the Pacific Northwest Coast, and Nature of Southeast Alaska .

6. Don't get too stressed about spares.

Trying to figure out what to bring for spares stresses out a lot of first-time Inside Passage cruisers. Alaska and the B.C. coast are well stocked, and even if you need something and can't get it locally, you should be able to have it air freighted to you. Focus on parts that break or clog or wear out, like rubber impellers, fuel filters, and engine belts. Things you could fix by yourself in a remote wilderness anchorage are useful. A box of oil filters takes up precious space, even if they are cheaper in the lower 48.

Things To Remember If You Go:

Bring fishing and/or crabbing gear. It's some of the best salmon, halibut, and Dungeness crab fishing in the world. (You'll want to get your fishing licenses online beforehand. For Alaska waters, go to adfg.alaska.gov and select Fishing>Licenses & Permits. For Canadian waters, go to pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca and select Fisheries>Recreational Fishing>British Columbia Recreational Fishing.)
Bring foulies and warm clothes. The weather can be wet, and temperatures get mighty chilly as you approach glaciers.
Make a point of visiting the small towns along the way. They are interesting and welcoming. You'll learn a lot about local history and indigenous people, and you'll get a real taste of the rugged folks who choose to live in this remote wilderness.
Be aware of the many large cruise ships in the area. Not only are they intimidating, their wakes are large and sometimes bounce off narrow passages, and they can roll your boat for a surprisingly long time. Try to keep items carefully stowed as if you were going to sea so you'll be ready when you encounter them.
Don't count on much sailing. Winds are often nonexistent or light from the north, or strong southeasterly with uncomfortable seas.
If it's possible, anchor pretty far from shore and bring bug spray. The bugs aren't usually bad, but when they are, the mosquitoes are Alaska-sized.
You'll want some bear spray , which is sold all along the route and is very effective for defusing an aggressive bear encounter. It's what the Alaska guides use, plus, it's legal to carry through Canada. (Handguns are not.)
Carry a lot of anchor rode and be prepared to anchor in a lot of really deep places. A reel of small line is useful for adding a stern tie to a tree on the beach, a common anchoring practice in deep harbors. Some of the most beautiful anchorages are 50- to 100-feet deep.
You'll encounter many whales. The laws say to not bring your boat within 100 yards (100 meters in Canada) and more in some areas, and you'll get a much longer show if you watch from a distance and don't disturb the animals.

— Charles Fort

7. Carry a good emergency kit for boat repairs.

Most people know about softwood plugs or TruPlug that you can use to stop a leak in an emergency. But my kit contains a few other items that have been helpful at times. Dr. Shrink Tape is amazing stuff that sticks to absolutely everything and can make a quick patch of a crack in your topsides or a leaky skylight or hatch. It may not be pretty, but it will allow you to continue cruising in comfort. A product called Through the Roof is a great sealant that works even in the rain (we've even used it underwater). A can of spray foam and a couple tubes of 3M 5200 (get the toothpaste- tube style) are also worth carrying. Also, add some super glue to the list.

8. Check on your insurance.

Most boat insurance policies have limits for where you can take your boat and still be insured. Insurance through BoatUS covers people with a U.S. address while they're cruising in Alaska, and you can get a seasonal extension for Canada. You typically need to ask for an extension, and sometimes there's an additional charge. If it's based on a latitude and you plan to cruise the entire Inside Passage, make sure you choose 59° 27.0N (Skagway, Alaska). Most other companies offer similar coverage. Towing is usually included, even in Canada. But a quick email to your company would confirm that you're covered for the area you want to cruise.

9. Take the boat you've got.

No matter what size or age of vessel, you're still going to watch the weather and navigate based on your craft. Also, a boat you're familiar with is going to be less stressful to cruise in than a new-to-you boat. Your voyage should be about exploring, seeing the scenery, and learning about wildlife along the way. If you don't have a boat, there are many options like bareboat chartering with a cruising in company flotilla offered by Northwest Explorations and others. There are also several good options for smaller chartering opportunities on crewed charter boats.

10. Take enough time to do it right.

There's nothing worse than having to rush home without seeing as much as you'd hoped, or skipping beautiful spots because of time constraints. Being in a rush is also a good way to force you to make bad weather decisions. Six weeks is the very absolute minimum, and 12 to 18 weeks would really allow you to immerse yourselves. If you have other summer commitments, you can always leave your boat and fly out, returning when your outside commitments are done. Take as long as you possibly can. Trust me on this. Take your boat and go.

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Jeffrey Smith

Contributor, BoatUS Magazine

Jeffrey Smith has been captain or mate on many types of boats and ships in waterways from coast to coast. He and his wife, Christine, share the summer beauty of tidewater glaciers with their charter guests aboard the restored 1929 motor vessel.

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Dec 12, 2020

Pilothouse Sailboats: The Myth of Inside Steering

Updated: Feb 2, 2021

Prior to buying my Cooper 416 more than 20 years ago I was a "traditionalist" when it came to sailboats. I thought Pilothouse sailboats had way to much windage, the big doghouse was hard to see over, the inside steering station added additional maintenance, and they were hotter than a greenhouse in the Mohave Desert when cruising in tropical climates. And, I had not seen too many that were aesthetically appealing. I also felt that "real" sailors should be out in the elements with the wind and rain and the occasional dousing of salt spray peppering your face.

First, and most importantly let me clarify a distinction between modern pilothouse sailboats and motorsailers. For example, the Cooper 416, the Sceptre 41, the Dufour 12000CT, and others are what I consider "modern pilothouse" sailboats that have raised doghouses with sleek lines. Compare these to motorsailers such as the Nauticat 33 & 44, the Cabo Rico PH, and Fishers that look like someone took a sailboat and threw a giant window box on top of the coachroof. I am not a fan of motorsailers as theses types of sailboats embody all the negative connotations of pilothouse designs.

But, as my father was getting on in years, and after sailing (motoring) in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) for a few years where the winds are fickle, the currents strong, and the rain virtually constant...I decided that perhaps a pilothouse was the way to go for the PNW. The pilothouse layout would be more comfortable for my father than the full-keeled True North 34 sailboat that I had prior to my Cooper 416. And besides, if the weather was inclement with no wind and we were motoring (which is quite common in Puget Sound) it would be nice to be able to go below, throw some hot water on the stove for some hot chocolate, and keep watch in the warmth of the cabin while continuing my voyage.

But now, after owning my pilothouse sailboat for more than 20 years with thousands of sea and ocean miles below her...let me debunk the notion of the inside steering station and some of the common myths of a modern pilothouse sailboat.

As I said, after "sailing" in the PNW for 5 years, and with my father getting on in years I considered a pilothouse design as a reasonable compromise. For those of you not familiar with sailing in the PNW, the winds are usually light and variable due to the mountain ranges. There are days of pea soup fog that doesn't dissipate until after noon, and yes...more rain days than dry days. Hell, I even sailed in the snow. So sure, the idea of being able to go below and still keep a watch was more appealing to me. I was also getting older and wiser. Spending 6 hours in the cockpit sitting in the rain when it is 35F outside while motoring from Port Townsend back to Seattle was not fun. Sailing should be fun!

So, in 2000 I bought a Cooper 416 pilothouse sailboat designed by Stan Huntingford and built by Cooper Yachts in Coquitlam, BC, Canada. I also had my eye on a Sceptre 41. I liked the lower profile hull design of the Sceptre, but the interior layout of the Cooper won out. I sailed the boat around Vancouver Island twice, down to San Francisco, up and down the Salish Sea, and in 2019 sailed across the Pacific to Hawaii. And, after 20 years and more than 15,000 miles I realized that I probably actually steered using the inside steering station less than 1 hour.

OK...I acknowledge that I have an autopilot (and also windvane steering added in 2019). In my opinion every "cruising" sailboat should have an autopilot. There are times when I love the feel of the helm such as short day-sails with friends, teaching crew how to steer and maneuver, and beer can regattas such as the Downtown Sailing Series out of Elliott Bay Marina. And sometimes I like to give Tardis (the Garmin Reactor autopilot) and Hephzibah (the Hydrovane wind vane steering) a break, and take over the steering duties and rekindle the sense of sailing rather than just riding on a sailboat. But, it is pure folly to think that you are going to sit at the helm and steering a cruising sailboat for 6 or more hours day after day; it's just impractical.

But, even during these times when I took the helm, it was the helm in the cockpit. When I leave a berth or anchorage I am at the helm in the cockpit. When I am docking or dropping the hook I am at the helm in the cockpit. When I out with friends for a day sail I am at the helm in the cockpit. When I trim sails and setting Hephzibah I am in the cockpit. Even when I am motoring on windless days...I am usually in the cockpit standing watch and Tardis is steering the desired course.

Yes, during inclement weather and really cold days I would stand watch inside. The pilothouse is warm and dry and safe. Of course, I go below to cook nice meals and use the head feeling quite comfortable with Hephzibah or Tardis keeping S/V Discovery on course. The navigation station inside the pilothouse has radar, the primary chartplotter with AIS interfaced, and the autopilot master controller (an AP remote is located in the cockpit). So, with the electronic navigational systems and a 270 degree view ahead and abeam of the boat I feel pretty confident in adequate watch keeping. And more importantly, even during these times below deck either Hephzibah or Tardis were steering the course while the inside helm sat idle.

So, in October 2020 I decided the inside steering station added no benefit, and was just a meaningless "feature." So, I removed the inside helm and built a navigation console. Removing the inside helm pump also meant removing the old copper hydraulic lines and simplifying the hydraulic steering system (e.g. bleeding is easier and uses less fluid). It also removed the redundant gear and throttle control cables. And also, since the navigation station is the epicenter of the boat's electrical system, it also meant some electrical work. I also moved the electronic navigation systems into the console so they have easier access and visibility while sitting at the navigation station.

While the inside steering station on a sailboat seems like a pretty good idea, and certainly adds a "WOW" factor for guests, I must say that unless you sail in northern latitudes in blizzard-like conditions and all your sail controls are controlled via electric switches and motors, the inside steering station really doesn't make a lot of sense. This is not to say the pilothouse design isn't great...but steering from inside a pilothouse is done via an autopilot...not with a wheel .

Some other thoughts about pilothouse sailboats...

The windage myth...

Any surface area above the boat create windage. A J-boat has very little windage. A J-boat has very little if any creature comforts. A Nauticat 44 (motorsailer) has a huge doghouse and a lot of windage. Many of the sleeker pilothouse designs found on the Cooper, the Scepter, etc have less windage than a comparable sized Hanse or Beneteau or Janneau...especially the deck salons, or after adding a dodger and full enclosure around the cockpit.

The Greenhouse Effect myth...

There is a reason why many sailboats berthed or anchored for any length of time in the tropics is virtually covered from stem to stern with Sunbrella. The key to keeping any sailboat cool and comfortable in the tropics is ventilation and shade . This cannot be overstated enough. This means a tent over the foredeck, a boom tent over the doghouse, and a Bimini over the cockpit. Side curtains made from Phifertex around the cockpit also help keep things cool; they provide shade and allow airflow. New cruisers, or casual rally-rat cruisers are easy to spot...they are the folks who anchor their boats (sans canvas coverings) and hightail it to the nearest pub ashore to escape the heat.

Dual steering is difficult to maintain...

This puzzles me a bit. Most pilothouse boats with inside steering stations use hydraulic steering. This actually adds a bit of redundancy in the system should the pump at one of the helm stations break. But, the maintenance on a hydraulic steering systems involves checking the fluid level once a month once the system has been bled of all air (which can be challenging if done improperly). Also, it sure seems to me that if you're going to have 2 helms on a cruising sailboat to have one inside station and one cockpit station. Dual helms in the cockpit on a cruising sailboat makes about as much sense as 2 steering wheels in a car.

Cramped cockpits....

Yes, this is one of the real downsides of many pilothouse sailboats in the 30-50 foot range. The cabin interior is larger which mean the cockpits are smaller. Personally, I don't mind the small cockpit on passages because I sail alone or with 1 or 2 other crew and everything is within easy reach. But, for casual day sails with friends....the cockpit can get quite cramped and there is very little "social distancing" going on. But, the cockpit is still comfortable for 2 people to stretch out and relax on long passages.

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Is "inside steering" really an advantage?

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Okay, so I’m a (VERY) novice sailor (so be gentle), and don’t have a grasp on the sailing processes. I’m wondering what advantage does the ‘’inside steering” in a pilothouse type sailboat have over a “conventional” sailboat really? I live in the North West, I so am interested in these “pilothouse” type boats, but thinking about it, yes, the inside steering would be neat to keep me out of the rain, but as soon as I make a course change, wouldn’t I need to go out in the rain anyway to adjust sails?? This doesn’t seem to be much of an advantage at all! Unless of course you are tooling along under power, but that kindda defeats the purpose of a SAILboat doesn’t it…… can ya’all shed a little light? Thanks for the time

I live in NW Highlands of Scotland so often raining or early in the season snowing-as you can see from pic of my boat I have a semi enclosed pilot house.Hard top windows and sides;lift out roof panel but open to rear but can be enclosed with zip in screens. Its great-I have to get out to raise the mainsail but everything else is done from from pilot house.When moored up or out of water on hard in winter its like having a greenhouse on the boat-even in sub zero temps it gets really hot if sun is out. I have in the past done it the other way-in the cockpit with ski goggles on and full waterproofs! Totally love it.

Don't know about shedding any light, maybe some gray. We have had pilot house sailboats for about 20 years here in the PNW. We use our boat year round although our "long" (6-8 weeks) cruise is during the summer. We enjoy the ability to be inside during bad weather while motoring as opposed to either being out in the cockpit, alone, or building a complete tent over it to escape the elements. The sad fact is that we do a lot of motoring here in the PNW. We have strong currents, large tidal changes, narrow straits and channels, flukey winds during the summer and most people have a destination in mind when they set out for the day which requires a certain distance to be travelled to the next anchorage during the daylight hours. For example: the trip we just returned from covered about 1000NM and we motored for app. 140 hours (6 knots, you can do the math). We did have some great sails across Georgia St. and Queen Charlotte St., up Toba Inlet, down Bute Inlet, and many others, but the majority of our miles were under diesel power. We never sail from inside. The majority of our weather this summer was great, but in the Broughtons we had rain, mist, fog, and chilly temps much like we have for 7-8 months of the year. I prefer to motor in these conditions from inside where all the instruments are clear and I don't have to wear foulies. This doesn't mean that we don't sail in these conditions, only that when we can't sail that we are more comfortable. Our trip across Queen Ch. St. started in thick fog, but a nice wind on the beam, so we sailed. I raise sail anytime it's possible to sail, except through rapids or when the conditions are too severe (cold, rain, snow, wind over 35 knots, etc). Pilot house sailboats are not for everyone, you lose living space inside due to the width restriction from the sidedecks and some don't like the looks and there is more windage (they are also generally more expensive and harder to find), but we wouldn't consider anything else in this area and climate. Hope that answers some of your questions.

A pilothouse design allows you to spend a good portion of your time at the helm in relatively protected comfort. When you're not coastal sailing, on an open ocean passage, you may be on a single heading and tack for a very long time with little change in the wind direction, so having a pilothouse makes it a lot more comfortable in bad weather. If you're lake sailing or coastal cruising, it makes far less of a difference.

I've always considered a dodger a must on any cruising sailboat. It provides protection from spray, wind, and allows better ventilation. I've used fabric ones but many long distance cruisers have waxed poetically about hard bimini's. I'd prefer a hard dodger over a pilothouse though.

In the PNW, a pilothouse allows you to sail/motorsail/motor year round in comfort. The winter is when a pilothouse really shines, generally I don't sail from the wheelhouse unless it's tough conditions and longish passages. Most pilothouses will have a large hatch above the helm to keep an eye on the mainsail but generally I do most of my sailing from the cockpit. They give you a less closed in feeling but they have the disadvantage of creating more windage and the larger windows inherent in pilothouses would be somewhat of a concern offshore but there are remedies for that. I do a lot of cruising up here all year long in most conditions and I will tell you that I would do a whole lot less winter cruising if I didn't have a pilothouse. Going out in driving rain and foul weather is actually quite enjoyable, not that it wouldn't be in a non-pilothouse, pilothouses just give you the option of being that much more comfortable should you choose to pilot from the wheelhouse.

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What Does a Catamaran Look Like Inside? (A Visual Guide)

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live on a boat? Catamarans offer an amazing opportunity to explore the open waters in style and comfort.

In this guide, we’ll take a look inside a modern catamaran and explore the features that make it so special.

From an open-plan layout to luxury bedrooms and kitchens, we’ll dive into the details of what it’s like to live on a catamaran.

We’ll also cover the flybridge, extended stays, and more.

So, let’s get started and take a look inside a catamaran!

Table of Contents

Short Answer

A catamaran typically has a spacious interior with two or three cabins, a galley, and a dining area.

Depending on the size of the catamaran, there may also be a navigation station, a wet bar, and even a lounge area.

The main living area is usually open and filled with natural light due to the large windows.

The cabins typically feature comfortable sleeping accommodations and plenty of storage for personal items.

Overview of Catamarans

Catamarans are a type of boat that have two or more hulls that are connected and outfitted with bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and living spaces.

They are typically used for recreational and leisure purposes, such as cruising, sailing, and fishing.

Catamarans are known for their spacious living areas that provide plenty of seating and an open-plan layout, allowing for plenty of natural light to enter the vessel.

Many catamarans also come with a flybridge, which offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area.

Inside, catamarans are typically designed with luxury and comfort in mind, making them perfect for extended stays on the water.

Some of the features of a catamaran include a large main salon, staterooms for sleeping, full-size galley, and plenty of storage.

Additionally, catamarans are usually equipped with the latest technologies, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking for a comfortable, modern, and luxurious experience on the water.

Open-Plan Layout & Seating

Catamarans are known for their spacious interior design, with most models featuring an open-plan layout and plenty of seating.

The main living area typically includes a comfortable seating area with plenty of cushions and plush pillows, as well as several tables for dining, entertaining, and working.

The seating area may also include a sofa, loveseat, or sectional for ultimate comfort.

Many catamarans also come with a bar or countertop for additional space for serving and entertaining guests.

In addition to the seating area, catamarans also typically include several loungers, day beds, and sun pads for relaxing and soaking up the sun.

The interior of the catamaran can be configured to fit the specific needs of the owners, offering plenty of options for seating and lounging.

The open-plan layout also allows for plenty of natural light to enter the space, providing a bright and airy feel.

The interior of the catamaran is often designed with a modern, minimalist aesthetic, offering a calming and inviting atmosphere.

Bedrooms & Bathrooms

When it comes to bedrooms and bathrooms, catamarans have plenty to offer.

Many catamarans feature spacious master suites with full-sized beds, ample closet space, and even en-suite bathrooms.

Some models may even include additional guest bedrooms, perfect for larger families or groups of friends.

In terms of bathrooms, many catamarans come equipped with a separate shower and toilet, as well as plenty of counter space and storage.

Some catamarans may even have two bathrooms, allowing for added convenience and increased privacy.

When it comes to bedrooms and bathrooms, catamarans have something for everyone.

From spacious master suites to additional guest bedrooms, these vessels provide plenty of space and luxury for extended trips on the water.

With a wide variety of designs and layouts, its easy to find a catamaran that suits your needs and lifestyle.

Kitchens & Living Spaces

When it comes to the interior of a catamaran, the kitchen and living spaces are the heart of the vessel.

A catamaran typically features a fully equipped kitchen with plenty of counter space and storage, equipped with modern appliances and amenities such as a range, oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher.

For those who love to cook, a galley kitchen is the perfect place to whip up delicious meals while enjoying the views.

The living area of a catamaran is designed with luxury and comfort in mind.

With plenty of seating and open-plan layouts, its easy to find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Many catamarans also feature a cozy lounge area with comfortable couches and chairs, perfect for entertaining guests and family.

And with plenty of windows to let in natural light, the interior of a catamaran feels bright and airy.

The flybridge on a catamaran offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area, making it the perfect spot for relaxation and sightseeing.

With plenty of seating and space for a small bar, its the ideal spot to watch the sunset or stargaze with friends.

And with its open-air design, the flybridge also offers plenty of natural ventilation, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a cool breeze on a hot summer day.

When it comes to catamarans, one of the most distinctive features of their design is the flybridge.

This area is located above the main living area and provides stunning 360-degree views of the surroundings.

It’s the perfect spot for taking in the sunset, star-gazing, or just enjoying the view of the horizon.

It’s also a great place to socialize with friends and family while out on the water.

The flybridge is typically equipped with comfortable seating, a sun shade, and even a sink or refrigerator to make your time on the water more enjoyable.

Depending on the size of the catamaran, the flybridge may also include a steering station and instrumentation, making it the ideal spot to pilot the vessel.

Luxury & Comfort

When it comes to luxury and comfort, catamarans dont disappoint.

The interior of a catamaran is typically designed with both of these features in mind.

From spacious living areas with plenty of seating to fully-equipped kitchens and bedrooms, catamarans are perfect for extended stays on the water.

The open-plan layout of a catamaran ensures that there is plenty of room for everyone to move around and relax.

The large windows provide plenty of natural light, making the space feel even more open and inviting.

The seating areas are designed for maximum comfort, with plush sofas and armchairs providing a relaxing spot to spend time with family and friends.

Most catamarans also come with a flybridge, which offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area.

This is the perfect spot to take in some breathtaking views while you relax in the sun.

Catamarans provide plenty of luxury and comfort for all onboard.

Whether youre looking for the perfect spot to spend a weekend away from it all or an extended stay on the water, a catamarans interior offers the perfect balance of luxury and comfort.

Extended Stays

When it comes to extended stays on the water, catamarans offer unparalleled levels of luxury and comfort.

With spacious living areas, plenty of seating, and an open-plan layout, they provide the perfect environment for long-term relaxation and exploration.

The bedrooms are typically outfitted with comfortable beds and linens, while the bathrooms feature all of the amenities of a typical home.

The kitchen is usually well-equipped with all of the appliances necessary for meal preparation, and the living area often includes a large flat-screen television and comfortable furniture.

The wide windows let in plenty of natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.

This bright atmosphere is further enhanced by the presence of a flybridge, which offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area.

This allows guests to take in the beauty and serenity of their environment, no matter where they may be.

In addition to the luxury and comfort of the interior, catamarans also provide an array of recreational activities for those who wish to stay longer.

Many of these vessels come equipped with a variety of water toys, such as kayaks, paddleboards, and even small motorboats.

There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, and exploring the local area.

All of these activities can be enjoyed from the comfort of the catamaran, making them the perfect choice for extended stays on the water.

Final Thoughts

With its open-plan layouts, luxurious bedrooms and bathrooms, spacious living areas, and 360-degree views from the flybridge, a catamaran is the perfect vessel for extended stays on the water.

Whether you’re looking for a fun day-trip or an exciting long-term adventure, a catamaran is sure to provide you with the ultimate experience.

Now that you know what a catamaran looks like inside, why not plan your own getaway today?

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

‍ Decide if the Liveaboard Life is Right for You

Living aboard a sailboat can be a rewarding and life-changing experience. Many live aboard for adventure, and others choose to live a more laid-back lifestyle and reduce their living expenses. Regardless of your reasoning, it’s important to consider the realities of living aboard and the sacrifices you’ll have to make.

Living aboard requires careful attention to maintenance, good organization, and an actual desire to live the lifestyle. You can successfully live on a sailboat without experience if you’re willing to make some changes to your lifestyle, reduce the amount of stuff you own, and stay on top of maintenance.

Is Living Aboard Common?

Yes, many people live aboard sailboats. It’s legal in most places, and there’s a relatively large online community dedicated to the practice. The majority of people who live on sailboats do it because they love sailing and the lifestyle.

Liveaboard Sailboat Utilities

Like a house, your sailboat needs utilities if you plan to live aboard. These systems have been well-integrated over the years, so it’s pretty easy to get power, water, and fuel for living aboard. Here’s how utilities work on a liveaboard sailboat.

Power, Water, and Sewage

When living in a house or apartment, the only time you really have to think about power, water, and sewage is when the bill is due—or when it stops working. On a sailboat, these things aren’t so hands-free.

Boats store water and sewage in tanks. Usually, a sailboat has a freshwater tank (for drinking) and a greywater/black water tank (for sewage). Eventually, these tanks will be full and need to be dumped, but you don’t have to rely on your freshwater tank when living aboard.

Most liveaboards hook their sailboats up to shore power using a special marine extension cord and a dock outlet. Water is connected this way as well, and some marinas offer sewage hookups at each dock.

However, you’ll probably have to pump out your septic tank at a separate location every so often. Plus, marinas charge for power and water.

Saving Water and Power on a Sailboat

Conservation is key to a convenient and clean life on a sailboat. You may have unlimited fresh water from a shore connection, but your septic tank will eventually get full. This may necessitate taking shorter showers and other water-saving steps, which are good habits to develop anywhere.

Additionally, your sailboat’s electrical system is designed to operate with or without shore power. This makes it relatively easy to install solar panels or a wind turbine, which (with a battery bank) can completely eliminate your dependence on shore power.

Liquid Fuel

Sailboats usually don’t have electric or gas appliances. Instead, sailboat stoves and heaters usually run on liquid fuel such as kerosene, alcohol, or diesel. Unlike a house, you’ll need to haul in fuel and use it safely and conservatively.

Alcohol stoves are the cleanest, but diesel heaters are the most common. These systems must ventilate correctly and be free of leaks, and you have to clean them once or twice per season to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Liquid Fuel Alternatives

Liquid fuel can be messy, smelly, and dangerous if used or stored improperly. Most sailors don’t like having a diesel tank in their living room (understandably so), so they use practical alternatives.

For heating, you can use an electric heater when connected to shore power, provided your wiring is safe enough. Figure out what gauge of wiring your 110-volt system uses, and hire an electrician to retrofit it if the wiring is too thin.

Another alternative is propane, which is cheap and cleaner than diesel or kerosene. Propane stoves used for camping fit on top of liquid-fuel stoves, and they’re a great choice for cooking when in the dock. Additionally, portable indoor propane heaters can be used, provided you have adequate ventilation.

CO Detection

Always install at least one carbon monoxide (CO) detector in your boat, regardless of what kind of fuel you use inside. A sailboat cabin is essentially a ziplock bag and the perfect environment for carbon monoxide to settle.

Install the meter near the floor, as carbon monoxide tends to sink. Additionally, an extra meter in your sleeping area is a great idea as well. Always test your meter before using a propane heater inside, and keep a window cracked or a vent fan on regardless of the outside temperature.

How to Choose a Sailboat to Live Aboard

Choosing a sailboat to live on is the first step in the process. You’ll have to first determine what kind of a sailboat you want, your budget, and what level of space and comfort you’re looking for.

The smallest feasible liveaboard sailboat (in which you can be hygienic and stand up straight) is about 20 feet in length, though the average size ranges from 26 feet to 40 feet. This is strictly speaking for monohull sailboats, as multihulls like catamarans have very different size and space standards.

The average comfortable liveaboard for one or two people is about 30 feet in length. A boat like this is affordable on the used market and includes everything you need to live a normal and healthy life.

A 30-foot sailboat almost always includes a shower, a full-size marine galley for cooking (with an icebox), a comfortable sleeping area, and a separate space for dining and working. You’ll likely have additional sitting areas too, and a chart table for navigating.

Anything beyond 30 feet will add additional space, but the accommodations will be about the same. A boat 25 feet and longer will likely have good standing headroom, which is a necessity for the vast majority of liveaboards.

Liveaboard Sailboat Prices

Finding a boat is largely a budget issue. Thankfully, there are lots of used sailboats on the market that are suitable to live in and relatively inexpensive. New sailboats cost upwards of $150,000–but don’t use this price as a benchmark for used sailboats.

The majority of suitable liveaboard sailboats can be found for less than $50,000, and a little bit of searching can get you a nice liveaboard for $10,000 or less. This makes the lifestyle an affordable option for many people, especially if you have a house or a car to sell prior to purchasing your boat.

The price of a used sailboat doesn’t necessarily predict its value or condition. Used sailboats, especially those 30 to 50 years old, don’t have pricing guides like cars do. Additionally, the maintenance and docking requirements often prompt owners to sell for far less than they’re worth.

Sailboat Accommodations

The minimum accommodations you’ll need to live aboard are a galley (kitchen), a table for eating and working, and a head with a toilet and a shower. Almost all cabin sailboats have a berth (bed), even if they don’t have anything else.

You’ll want a sailboat with electrical power too. Most sailboats produced after the 1940s are equipped with electric lighting and outlets, so just make sure that they work. All of these features can be found on sailboats 25 feet and larger.

Sailboat Condition

Condition is another important element to consider, and it can make or break your liveaboard experience. A sailboat with mold, leaks, a messed up electrical system, or other systemic problems can hamper the quality of life and be more trouble than it’s worth.

Cosmetic repairs are much easier to deal with than other problems, and you can always reupholster the interior. When given the option, choose a sailboat that’s solid and sanitary over one that looks good but has serious issues.

How to Stay Organized on a Sailboat

Staying organized is a big part of living aboard, and it can make the experience much more enjoyable and practical. In fact, liveaboards say that staying organized is one of the most important skills to develop. Here are some tips for staying organized aboard a sailboat.

Downsize Your Tools

Everyone needs a certain set of tools to live a clean and healthy life. These include cleaning equipment, dishes, pots and pans, and so on. On a sailboat, your primary constraints are space, power, and water, so you’ll have to develop a system that makes the most out of each.

Start with your cleaning equipment. Toss out that large vacuum and replace it with a dust buster. A well-made dustbuster-type vacuum can easily keep a sailboat clean, even if you have pets. It’s worth splurging on the best one you can find, as you’ll get more out of the space and electricity with a high-quality unit.

Next, change your habits to reduce the amount of cleaning you have to do. Try to minimize crumbs and spills by eating only at the table, and use glasses designed for sailboats.

Additionally, you can reduce the size of your cooking utensils and wash them immediately instead of using a second or third pan before doing the dishes. You’d be surprised by how much stuff you can do without if you’re conscientious about what you use.

Dedicate Storage Spaces

Dedicate storage spaces aboard to specific types of items. For example, choose a cupboard for cleaning supplies and figure out how to fit everything you need inside. Keep safety equipment in one area, and be sure to separate dirty from clean items.

For example, you can choose a cockpit locker for storing sails, engine tools, and other items to keep the smell and grime of diesel fuel, oil, and fiberglass resin away from your living space. Sailboats are often filthy because outdoor items are stored inside, but you can break this trend by separating them into logical spaces.

Many sailors store clothing underneath sitting areas, and you can keep them clean by using vacuum-seal bags or plastic boxes. Glasses can be stowed overhead, and books can be kept on exposed shelves.

Buy Smaller Items

This will cost more initially, but using supplies conservatively can offset the cost. Things like soap bottles, toothpaste tubes, and paper towel rolls are usually purchased in bulk but are available in smaller quantities.

It’s cheaper to buy in bulk, this is true. But some items that take up lots of space in bulk simply aren’t worth sacrificing a sitting area or an entire box of clothing for. Over time, you can use the smaller quantities to become aware of how much you use and how to reduce costs.

Reduce Garbage

We produce a lot of trash. Trash is the most useless waste of space aboard a sailboat and also one of the worst contributors to unpleasant odors and unsanitary conditions. The simplest solution is to stop using as much disposable stuff as possible.

A dish rag used instead of paper towels will reduce costs, save space, and last infinitely longer. Avoid buying items with excessive packaging, and if you do, dispose of the package onshore before bringing it aboard.

This is a great opportunity to eat healthier, too. Many liveaboards live without a microwave, as it saves space and vastly reduces the amount of processed food and food packaging trash you produce.

Instead of throwing out extra food every day, cook portions that you can finish. You’ll have to shop more often, but you’ll have more fresh food every day and your health will improve in the long run.

Downsize Your Stuff Collection

The most dramatic shift that new liveaboards have to contend with is the lack of space. There’s simply not enough space on a sailboat to store years of stuff. Unused Christmas presents, old shoes, that workout machine you got at a yard sale—it’s all gotta go.

Things like photo albums and hard drives should be kept (maybe offsite), but other items can almost always be disposed of one by one.

An easy way to choose what to donate or throw away is to lay everything out on your driveway and sort through each item individually. Address each item one by one, and decide if it’s indispensable. After you’ve chosen all of the things you need, the rest of the space can be used for the things you don’t need but want to keep.

How to Make Money Living on a Sailboat

Another necessity when living aboard is money. Unless you’ve got a major nest egg, you’ll need to work and make a living somehow. Decades ago, this was complex, as there were few jobs on the waterfront that paid well and didn’t break your back. But today, you can make a full-time living without stepping foot onshore.

Remote Work and Freelancing

Remote work is the best prospect for making a liveaboard income. The minimum required to survive is between $1,000 and $2,000 per month, and virtually everyone can utilize or learn a skill to make money online.

Freelance careers, such as writing, web design, or coding, are a great option if you have the skills or want to learn, and entry-level opportunities are available. Additionally, personal assistant jobs are a way to go if you have experience in that field or want to give it a shot.

If you already have a job, enquire if it’s possible to work remotely. Today, many types of work can be accomplished remotely, including everything from mortgage underwriting to accounting.

Living aboard is the perfect opportunity to start a career, such as photography. The reduced expenses and location give you an opportunity to learn the ropes without going broke in the interim, and you can do virtually everything involved with an internet connection and shore power.

Boat Repair

Living aboard a sailboat puts you in the best environment for boat repair work. Skilled mechanics, carpenters, and handymen can find work almost anywhere that boats are stored. You’ll have to ask around, but liveaboard mechanics are indispensable in many areas.

Engine repair pays very well—upwards of $50/hour—as local mechanics like liveaboards can charge below shop rates. Fiberglass and hull cleaning gigs can net several hundred dollars per boat, and cosmetic/interior repairs also pay generously.

Finding a Place to Dock

Finding a marina is one of the most frustrating steps to living aboard, as location has a big impact on cost and the viability of living aboard. Some marinas encourage liveaboards, but others ban it outright.

A good medium is a clean marina with a few liveaboards, as these areas encourage responsible living and quickly expel people who don’t respect the area. Piles of garbage on derelict boats are unsanitary and shouldn’t be found in the best marinas.

The best way to find a marina is to call all the local docks and inquire about living aboard, price, and general atmosphere. Additionally, pay each marina a visit to see what it’s like in person. Try to talk with other liveaboards about marina management, hidden costs, and how they like the experience. This can save headaches down the road.

Where to Learn More

The liveaboard community online is sizable, especially on platforms such as YouTube. If you’re looking for insights, spend some time on the internet searching for videos and forums on the topic.

Lots of channels are dedicated entirely to living aboard, and you can learn a lot about day-to-day tasks and realities. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn vicariously and improve your liveaboard experience, and it gives you an opportunity to meet other people who share your new lifestyle.

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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13 Best Beginner Sailboats with Cabin (For Any Budget)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Test sailing on a few models

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

Research on various sailboat models

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

Reviews from fellow sailors

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

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

Some popular sailing forums and communities include:

Cruisers Forum
Sailing Anarchy
SailNet Community
Yachting and Boating World Forums

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

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

Sailing experience

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

Preferred types of sailing activities

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

Your budget for a sailboat with a cabin

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

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

Size and layout of the sailboat

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

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

Ease of handling the sailboat

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

Maintenance and upkeep of the sailboat

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

Duane Stallings

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

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Better Sailing

Best Sailboats With 2 Cabins

The passion of living and voyaging overseas is difficult to explain to people that can’t live without their basic needs and additional comforts. But if you choose the right sailboat tailored to your needs and preferences you might be able to live on a sailboat and have more comforts than expected. Choosing a well-designed, robust, spacious, and seaworthy sailboat is the key to successful passagemaking. So, are you looking to accomplish your dream and sail overseas with a 2-cabin sailboat? Then, continue reading this article. I’m going to list the best 2-cabin sailboats to live on and travel overseas as well as their characteristics. Follow me!

Island Packet 35

The full-keel IP 35 with a high-freeboard hull design still proves her value and is one of the best choices amongst sailors. The beamy IP 35 has a robust construction, spacious interiors and great amenities that make her a great cruising sailboat. The IP 35 was firstly introduced in 1988 and has a comfy and roomy interior as well as a large cockpit, and an easy-to-handle cutter rig with a jib boom. Even though she’s not the fastest boat upwind, she can perform well in trade winds. All these features make the IP 35 a good option for family cruising. Lastly, she can cruise on long-passages and as for her price, you can find a well-maintained used model with approximately $75,000.

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats Under 100k

Catalina 30

The Catalina 30 deck forms a very functional boarding space. Even though they first appeared on the market in 1972 they still continue to sail in the seas. Furthermore, these reliable fiberglass models are the most common ones in terms of production. The galley of Catalina 30 has large counter space and two private double cabins, one forward (V-berth) and one aft. The forward cabin is a V-berth formation. Also, the sofa converts and forms two more berths on the starboard side. It is possible to find a good and properly maintained Catalina 30 with the price of $15,000.

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats Under 30 Feet

The old-time classic Pearson 34 will give you the appropriate space you need in order to sail for a long time offshore. She has spacious accommodations and is easy to handle making her ideal for enjoying the joys of cruising. Her aft sections are full which increases sail carrying power and her forward sections are moderately full so as to provide buoyancy. A classic arrangement plan is used for the below decks resulting in the best use of space.

Oceanis 311

The Oceanis 311 is a practical and roomy high-performance cruiser and racer. She can accommodate 6 persons and has 2 cabins placed below her deck. The accommodation layouts have a double-berth cabin on the port side aft and a double V-berth in the forepeak. The galley and WC are situated on the port side, the small navigation area is situated on the starboard, and the table on the centreline. As for the headroom, it’s around 6 ft. The boat doesn’t have a convertible saloon but has a convertible settee which forms two single berths. Lastly, the 311 combines appropriate internal volume and a fast hull, making it ideal for long offshore passages.

Beneteau First 31.7

This sailboat has achieved the right balance between sailing performance and accommodation. This family of Beneteau’s First sailboats designed by the Finot Group is highly appreciated among sailors for their resistance and high-performance. The First 31.7 features a high freeboard, a self-bailing cockpit, and a wide transom. Her design is simple and efficient, provides enough room for provisions which makes it great for long passages. Moreover, the 31.7 model is the more compact design of the Beneteau First 40.7 model. Its large beam provides plenty of interior volume with a simple layout of 2 cabins and one head. The main cabin is in the V-berth forward and has approximately 6ft of standing headroom. The galley is situated to the port side and includes a sink, a stove, and a refrigerator. Aft of the boat is the second private cabin with standing headroom and a double berth.

Hallberg-Rassy 310

The Hallberg-Rassy 310 is a fast and easy-going boat with her simple design and her robust GRP construction which makes her great for ocean cruising. She is a 30ft monohull sloop and features a deck steeped mast configuration. Furthermore, it has a spacious and comfy interior including 2 cabins, enough space for storage, and an L sofa with a straight settee. You can find a properly maintained used Hallberg-Rassy 310 with approximately $160,000. She’s definitely included on our top list of 2-cabin cruisers/racers!

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats to Live On

Moorings Beneteau 38.2

This exceptionally designed monohull is proven to be seaworthy, stable, and reliable for overseas sailing. Her hull design ensures excellent performance even under strong winds due to her wide beam towards the stern construction. Furthermore, she has a large cockpit area that facilitates walking, relaxing, and dining on the deck. Her interior is equipped with two cabins and two bathrooms and has space to accommodate from 6 to 8 persons. The galley has all basic amenities such as a refrigerator, an oven as well as extra seating and countertop space. She is one of the sailboats that provide more than enough amenities for a long offshore sailing and she definitely worths the investment!

Peterson 44

The Peterson 44 is one of the best center-cockpit cruisers that can sail well in any wind, and she’s ideal for overnight cruising or day sailing. The sailboat has a split-cabin both fore and aft and a generally roomy and comfy interior without putting aside its excellent sailing capabilities. Through the passageway, to starboard and back, is the aft cabin, with a double berth and separate head with shower. The traditional main cabin is situated forward and includes a dinette to port and settee to starboard. Moreover, there’s a second head with a shower and a large V-berth. All these amenities and space combined with this seaworthy and easy-to-handle sailboat can’t let me without putting her on our list. On today’s market, you can find her from $100,00 to $125,000.

The ideal high-sided family cruiser that ensures easy handling, speed, and comfort. With a large cockpit area, a practical walk-through transom, and with spacious interior/outdoor areas, you can enjoy your days sailing overseas. Moreover, she has dual-ended mainsail sheeting and the headsail sheet winches are adequately placed to the helm. The sheets are well built into the companionway bulkheads so as to facilitate the control of halyards and furling lines led aft to the cabin top. The galley and saloon areas are large enough to cook and relax and both cabins are bright and spacious. Lastly, she’s quick and quite responsive while sailing and adequate for coastal cruising with your whole family!

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

Bavaria C42

This modern and innovative Bavaria C42 won’t let you down in terms of sailing performance and offshore sailing. Her V-shaped bow hull shape with chines, the large amount of space, and robust construction are the characteristics that make this model one of the best 2-cabin boats on our list. Better performance is achieved due to the chines that ensure stability and direct feeling while steering. Also, the foredeck and side decks have enough space for a sailboat of this size and the hull design creates extra space below the deck. So, there’s everything in the Bavaria C42; 2 luxurious cabins with a bathroom, a roomy saloon with a lounge bench, extra headroom in the bow cabin, and generous storage capacity. You’ll definitely appreciate her design and sailing performance and she’ll certainly prove her worth!

These are some great 2-cabin sailboats adequate for either offshore sailing or just for coastal cruises with your friends and family. Again, everything depends on your needs, preferences, and budget when you’re planning to buy a new or used yacht. So, you need to consider everything before buying a 2-cabin sailboat. Your crew members, your routes, your budget, comfort needs, amenities and sailing performance. There’s a wide variety of different options out there to choose from and you’ll definitely find what you’re looking for. Bon voyage!

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

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Oceanis 30.1

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

Oceanis Yacht 54
Oceanis Yacht 60
FIGARO BENETEAU 3
Heritage Sailing Yacht
Flyer 7 SUNdeck
Flyer 7 SPACEdeck
Flyer 8 SUNdeck
Flyer 8 SPACEdeck
Flyer 9 SUNdeck
Flyer 9 SPACEdeck
Antares 7 Fishing
Antares 8 Fishing
ANTARES 11 FLY
Gran Turismo 32
Gran Turismo 36
Gran Turismo 41
Gran Turismo 45
Swift Trawler 35
Swift trawler 41 Sedan
Swift trawler 41 Fly
Swift Trawler 48
Grand Trawler 62
Heritage Powerboats
Future Owners
A REMARKABLE ANNIVERSARY
Our History
Our Architects and Designers
Our philosophy
Our Innovations
Your way to ownership
Event calendar
Annapolis Sailboat Show
Tests and Awards

Description
Key Features

Specifications

Following in the wake of her elder sister the Oceanis 46.1, this 40-foot cruiser, with a new hull design by Marc Lombard , offers unrivaled deck volume and interior space , with zero concessions to performance. The Oceanis 40.1 is available in different layouts, drafts and rig options , adapting to the most demanding sailor’s cruising requirements and satisfying their need for comfort and pleasure under sail.

NAVAL ARCHITECT : Marc Lombard

INTERIOR & DECK DESIGN : Nauta Design

Exterior design

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

Interior Design

With your choice of either a walnut or white oak , the styling of the interior by Italian designer Nauta is remarkably bright and excels in the skillful arrangement of the living spaces. She is available with two, three, or four cabins, and a C-shaped galley to the starboard that offers an abundance of storage and a spacious countertop. On the port side, there is a large salon with a table, complete with a removable bench. A chart table at the foot of the companionway provides ample working space. Everything is modular, so that everyone can live the way they want and enjoy sailing wherever the wind takes them.

40 FEET OF SPACE!

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

LIFE AT ANCHOR

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

SEEKING EXCITEMENT UNDER SAIL…

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

HEAVENS ABOVE, SO MUCH SPACE!

The hatches and the many hull and coachroof portholes, two of which face towards the cockpit, fill the boat with natural light and ventilation, making her exceptionally bright. The Oceanis 40.1 comes in 4 different versions with two, three, and four cabins to accommodate everyone’s idea of a holiday on board. Couples and large families will feel at home. The owner version has a cabin with an ensuite shower and head, and a bed easily accessible from either side. The four-cabin layout has two forward berths with bunk beds.

Equipped With SEANAPPS

The easiest way to keep your boat safe and ready to cruise anytime.

The new Seanapps app is the ultimate solution to help you indulge your passion for boating. With the touch of your finger, you can easily connect, monitor and order services for your boat – from routine maintenance, to requesting a wash or fuel or having us complete a repair.

Virtual tour

The information below is intended for general informational purposes only and is subject to change without notice and does not constitute a contractual agreement. Any descriptions, representations, or statements made in this document are not to be considered binding unless explicitly stated otherwise in a formal contractual agreement.

Length Overall

Beam overall

Light displacement

Air Draft Max

Fuel Capacity

Water Capacity

Max. engine power

Cabin Number

CE Certification

A10 / B10 / C12

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

2 cabins & 1 head

U-shaped salon seat
C-shaped fitted galley: fridge, sink, 2-ring hob, oven, storage and worktop.
Master cabin with double bed positioned on the boat center line.
Aft cabin with double berths.
Shower room with shower compartment and marine toilet.
Several hull portholes and coach roof port lights make the space naturally bright.

3 cabins & 1 head

U-shaped salon seat.
Master cabin with double bed positioned on the boat’s centreline.
Two aft cabins with double berths.
Shower room with shower compartment, washbasin cabinet and marine toilet.

3 cabins & 2 heads

Two shower rooms with shower compartment and marine toilet.

HARKEN HARDWARE

Press Reviews

Boat Review - The layout on the new Beneteau 40.1 is excellent for ease of sailhandling, notes Ewenson. Read More

Yachting Art

Boat Review - All about the coming BENETEAU Oceanis 40.1. Read More

Cruising World

Virtual Q&A - Cruising World recently sat down with Beneteau to get the inside scoop on the brand new cruiser. Read More

BOAT REVIEW: The boat is the new BENETEAU Oceanis 40.1, and it seems to be having as much fun as the crew. Read More

All Oceanis news

Nautic boat show 2022 : Spotlight on remarkable sustainable innovations at BENETEAU

BENETEAU has decided to follow the path of innovation to reduce the environmental impact of sailing. Practical yet ground-breaking innovations that were visible on the First 44e and the Oceanis 30.1e sailing yachts world premiered at the Nautic Boat Show in Paris.

Activities to Enjoy on Your Next Sailing Yacht or Powerboat Trip

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

Customer care.

Buying a BENETEAU doesn’t have to be a daunting task. We have teams of experts to guide you through the entire process – everything from sea trials, financing, and customization to after-sale commissioning, service, and maintenance. We are proud to have one of the largest, most highly-regarded dealer networks in the world. We’re ready to provide you with the assistance and expertise needed to launch you and your BENETEAU on a lifetime of happy, rewarding, and memorable voyages.

Other models in the range

9.53 m / 31’3’’

2.99 m / 9’10’’

10.77 m / 35’4’’

3.57 m / 11’9’’

11.93 m / 39’2’’

3.92 m / 12’10’’

14.6 m / 47’11’’

4.5 m / 14’9’’

15.94 m / 52’4’’

4.8 m / 15’9’’

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Inside the Owners’ Club garden party at the Palm Beach International Boat Show 2024

BOAT International hosted the Owners’ Club garden party event during the prestigious Palm Beach International Boat Show on 23 March. The event was supported by annual sponsor Bermuda Tourism Authority and event partners ABASK , Carla Guilhem Design and Ocean Alexander .

The setting for this year's event was the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, a historic home and gallery and former home of celebrated sculptor Ann Weaver Norton. The two-acre property, which includes a botanical garden and collection of 250 rare plants, lies in the El Cid neighbourhood of downtown West Palm Beach on the Intracoastal Waterway. The event offered a unique opportunity for superyacht owners and industry professionals to come together in a relaxed atmosphere.

Guests gathered in the garden at sunset for a selection of drinks and canapés. A string quartet added to the elegant ambiance.

Guests were greeted with a quintessential Dark ’n’ Stormy cocktail provided by Bermuda Tourism Authority, a signature Bermudian drink starring its famous local rum.

Among the attendees were esteemed members of the Owners’ Club, senior BOAT International staff and representatives from the event's sponsors. As guests settled in for a three-course dinner, the editor of BOAT International US, Cecile Gauert, raised a toast.

The setting

ABASK, the interiors mecca that specialises in a unique edit of handcrafted and one-of-a-kind pieces, created an elegant tablescape using elegantly mismatching china, glassware and cutlery, all with a colourful ocean theme. Each place setting was unique to each guest - what ABASK dubbed a 'soloscape'.

Before guests left for the night, award-winning yacht designer Carla Guilhem handed each guest a special gift - an exquisite Sieger by Fürstenberg 'Sip Of Gold' champagne goblet gilded with 24-carat gold.

For more information about the Owners' Club, contact the BOAT International events team .

Pirates of the Caribbean Ride Offends Guests, Shuts Down After 56 Years

in Disneyland Resort

Guests stopped at a street market scene on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride at Disneyland Park.

A controversial Disneyland Resort attraction amassed attention this week after suddenly closing, trapping guests in their boats for two hours. Already considered “offensive” by some Disney Parks fans, Pirates of the Caribbean gave some families another reason not to ride!

Pirates of the Caribbean originally opened in Adventureland at Disneyland Park in 1967. Walt Disney Imagineering later created alternate versions of the attraction for Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort (1973), Tokyo Disneyland at Tokyo Disney Resort (1983), Disneyland Park at Disneyland Paris (1992), and Shanghai Disneyland (2016).

Auction scene featuring Pirate Redd, the auctioneer, and townspeople in the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World Resort

“Board a weathered barge for a treacherous voyage to the 17th century, when rowdy rogues and ruthless rapscallions ransacked Caribbean seaport towns,” the official Disney ride description reads. “Sing along as pirates serenade you with their anthem, ]Yo Ho, Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me).’ Sail past haunted Dead Man’s Cove. Navigate cannon fire between a Caribbean fort and a striking 12-gun galleon. Behold boisterous buccaneers drunk on the spoils of plunderin’ as flames engulf a seaside town…Ye beware, mateys: Dead men tell no tales!”

The Walt Disney Company has altered the Pirates of the Caribbean ride and its successors numerous times in its 56-year lifespan. In 2006, Imagineers first retrofitted Captain Jack Sparrow ( Johnny Depp ) animatronics inspired by the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise into the attraction. In 2018, they removed a sexist bride auction scene and turned the women into female pirates bartering stolen goods.

Some Disney Parks fans oppose any change to Pirates of the Caribbean, but others think Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort haven’t gone far enough. One Disney Park guest felt ogled by the pirate animatronics.

A skeleton prop on Pirates of the Caribbean at Disneyland Resort, an attraction many Disney Parks fans wish filming was banned on.

“I just think this is kind of a weird ride,” the guest said after their visit. “I don’t know… It’s just a little bit rapey.”

This week, Pirates of the Caribbean disappointed dozens more Disney Park guests. However, the incident had nothing to do with the ride’s content.

Pirates of the Caribbean at Walt Disney World.

On Saturday, TikTok user @dubillgaming shared this video of his party stuck on Pirates of the Caribbean. They spent two hours trapped in the small boat with other families.

@dubillgaming When you’re stuck on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride for two hours #disney #disneyland #piratesofthecaribbean #family #passholderlife #disneylandcalifornia #disneylandtiktok #disneylandpark #kids #disneytiktoks #disneytiktokcommunity ♬ Titanic flute fail – kate dwyer

Fortunately, no guests in the video appear distressed, but they definitely don’t look amused!

It’s unclear why Pirates of the Caribbean closed temporarily, but the attraction was operating normally at the time of this article’s publication.

Should the Pirates of the Caribbean ride close forever? What would you change about the attraction? Share your thoughts with Inside the Magic in the comments.

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'Heinous, evil act': Sentimental sailboat model stolen from historic Lantana restaurant

by Luli Ortiz

A decades-old family heirloom displayed inside a historic lantana restaurant taken by an alleged thief.{br}Security footage from last month shows the moments a man snatches the antique sailboat off the mantle of a fireplace at Old Key Lime House located on E. Ocean Avenue. It's been there for years. (Ryan Cordero)

LANTANA — A sentimental sailboat model displayed inside a historic Lantana restaurant was taken by an alleged thief.

Security footage from last month shows the moments a man snatches the antique sailboat off the mantle of a fireplace at Old Key Lime House located on E. Ocean Avenue. It's been there for years.

“You look at this video and see this heinous, evil act. You're like how anybody can contemplate doing something like that,” restaurant owner, Ryan Cordero, told CBS12 News on Friday.

Cordero added the model ship has sentimental value and was a gift from his father, Wayne, who passed away back in August of 2020.

“It's always been very special to me,” Cordero said. “My dad bought it for me when I was a small child after sail camp. It's always been in my room growing up. Since it's my mom and I now, we're here all the time, we put it here so every time you see it."

Not only is there an empty space on the mantle, but Cordero said it's left a big absence in his heart.

According to Cordero, the suspect had been a customer that night on March 7th. Cameras tracked his every move, including the moment he grabbed the ship and raced out the door.

“He was here at 7:13 p.m., hanging out at the raw bar, listening to the Thursday night band, enjoying his time, really kicking back,” he explained. “This guy looked outside to see if anybody's looking. He looked in the gift shop, looked at the hostess stand, and saw nobody was around, grabbed it and ran out.”

Cordero was told the item has an estimated value between $3,000-$5,000. More than just getting back property, Cordero said he wants to know who and why anyone would do something so dishonest.

“It's devastating to see the security footage of an elderly gentleman, who should be learned to be wise at this age. "

The ship was just one of the countless memorabilia pieces on display at the restaurant.

“This is Florida's oldest waterfront restaurant. It's been in the family since ‘86,” he said.

The history is a big reason people go to Old Key Lime House. Photographs displayed of a storied past, showing the early days and the eventual evolution of Lantana.

“We're one of the oldest restaurant families in Florida started back in 1840, before the state was incorporated in Key West. The key lime pie is great, great, Grandmother Agnes' which we take credit for inventing the key lime pie.”

As Lantana police investigate, Cordero said he is offering a $500 reward for any information about the man caught on camera.

He hopes the thief will have a change of heart and return this meaningful gift from his late father.

“If he turns it in, with an apology, I will not press charges. Police are on it, so please turn in my sailboat,” Cordero said.

Amber Alert issued for missing Alabama brother, sister

MONTGOMERY, Ala. ( WSFA /Gray News) - Police are searching for two young siblings last seen in Montgomery, Alabama.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency issued an Amber Alert for Kaiden Tymari Perryman, 5, and his sister, Janayizha Qynterrica Gunn, 13. They were last seen around 9 p.m. Monday in the area of Gibbs Village in Montgomery.

Investigators believe Janayizha abducted her brother and drove off in a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. Montgomery police say the car was found in Selma Tuesday, but the children are still missing.

Kaiden is 3 feet 3 inches tall and approximately 45 pounds. He has brown eyes and brown hair.

Janayizha is 5 feet 3 inches tall and approximately 100 pounds. She has brown eyes and black hair.

Anyone with information on these children is asked to immediately call 911 or Montgomery police at 334-625-2831.

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A Controversial Guest Returned to Below Deck and Brought Lots of "Drama"

"I live for guest drama but not this guest drama," Below Deck stew Barbara Pascual exclaimed about the issues on the boat.

A familiar face popped up during Season 11, Episode 11 of Below Deck on April 15. Who? None other than a former charter guest named Brandon.

Who is Below Deck charter guest Brandon?

Brandon previously appeared on Below Deck Down Under Season 2. While aboard the Northern Sun vessel, he forwent the yacht's rules by jumping in the ocean at night with another guest, Kristyl. The boat blunder caused drama with Captain Jason Chambers , who issued a stern warning to the guests to not go against his order or they would go "back to the marina."

How to Watch

Watch Below Deck on Bravo Mondays at 9/8c and next day on Peacock . Catch up on the Bravo App .

Fast forward to Season 11 of Below Deck when Brandon arrived with a new group of charter guests, and unfortunately for the St. David crew, he made waves yet again.

The drama with Brandon on Below Deck Season 11, explained

Brandon made a memorable arrival as stew Barbara "Barbie" Pascual offered him Prosecco and sparkling rosé, and he promptly replied, "All the above!"

Then, during dinner, Brandon started to rock the boat when he confronted another guest.

Charter Guest Brandon standing with his friend and his boyfriend in a yacht.

Brandon, more specifically, addressed Ray, the boyfriend of primary guest Carmen, to point out the "tension" he felt when coming on the boat due to a past experience between the two.

Is Barbie Pascual Quitting After Clashing with Fraser Olender? "I'm Here Crying..."

A heated conversation ensued, prompting Barbie to weigh in during a confessional interview. "I live for guest drama but not this guest drama," she said. "This guest drama's dark."

New stew Paris Field had a lighter take on the events at dinner, saying in an interview, "The bickering...it's comedy gold."

Charter Guest Brandon at the dinner table with his friends.

Back at the dinner table, another guest offered his thoughts on the matter: "Seems like this got more out of pocket than it needed to be."

Meet Paris Field, the New Stew on Below Deck Season 11: "I Just Want to Stir the Pot"

Carmen, for her part, tried to bring peace, explaining, "Listen, the only way we can change is if we inform and educate."

Ultimately, things cooled down and the two men did make peace when Brandon returned to the table. "I want you to know I love you and I adore you," Brandon said to Ray.

"I know, and I understand where you're coming from," Ray responded.

We love a resolution!

Barbara Pascual
Kerry Titheradge
Paris Field

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COMMENTS

Discover The Different Parts Of A Sailboat: Illustrated Guide
The helm is the position the helmsman uses to steer the boat. Smaller sailboats often use a tiller to navigate, while most bigger yachts have one or two steering wheels. Main parts below deck (inside the boat) Let us look at the interior to highlight and learn about the parts we have below the deck. A picture of Ellidah's interior. The ...
Full SAILBOAT TOUR [Affordable 38ft, Self Sufficient ...
WELCOME!!! To this full in-depth tour of my beautiful 1984 Beneteau Idylle 11.5m or 38' long sloop rigged monohull sailboat. My humble home upon the sea.Thre...
Sailboat Parts Explained: Illustrated Guide (with Diagrams)
With motorboats, the stern lies deep inside the water, and the hull is flatter aft. Aft also means back. This allows it to plane, increasing the hull speed. For sailboats, stability is much more important, so the hull is rounded throughout, increasing its buoyancy and hydrodynamic properties. Transom. The transom is the backplate of the boat's ...
Sailing the Inside Passage to the Pacific Northwest
Marilyn Johnson. May 5, 2020. If you're a fan of quiet and unspoiled nature, you'll love exploring the Inside Passage. In a way, the Inside Passage is to the Pacific Northwest what the Intracoastal Waterway is to the East Coast—a protected waterway used by mariners to reach distant destinations. However, that's about where the ...
Sailboat Interior Photos and Premium High Res Pictures
Browse Getty Images' premium collection of high-quality, authentic Sailboat Interior stock photos, royalty-free images, and pictures. Sailboat Interior stock photos are available in a variety of sizes and formats to fit your needs.
Inside Sailboat Photos and Premium High Res Pictures
Young man kisses his girlfriend's hand. of 29. Browse Getty Images' premium collection of high-quality, authentic Inside Sailboat stock photos, royalty-free images, and pictures. Inside Sailboat stock photos are available in a variety of sizes and formats to fit your needs.
Living In A Sailboat: An Insider's Guide To Sailboat Life
You can get it cheaper but there are no recommended surveyors in Sicily so we made the decision to fly one in from the UK. That way there weren't any language barriers either. We were slightly unlucky that the marina the sailboat was in was such an expensive one to get a lift out, you can get lifted out for more like £200-£300 ($250 - $380 USD) in other boatyards.
An Insider's Take On The Inside Passage
The Inside Passage up the West Coast is one of those bucket-list trips for many American and Canadian boaters. At more than 1,000 miles end to end, the network of passages that weave through the islands of the Pacific Northwest to Alaska contains a lifetime of places to explore. The Passage begins to the south at Olympia, Washington, in Puget ...
Pilothouse Sailboats: The Myth of Inside Steering
Prior to buying my Cooper 416 more than 20 years ago I was a "traditionalist" when it came to sailboats. I thought Pilothouse sailboats had way to much windage, the big doghouse was hard to see over, the inside steering station added additional maintenance, and they were hotter than a greenhouse in the Mohave Desert when cruising in tropical climates.
Ahoy! Tour Our Updated Ticon 30 Sailboat Interior
But there are still many ways to update a 1980s boat interior because upholstery and other textiles can go a long way. When I shared the first tour of our Ticon 30 sailboat, you got a glimpse of the all-beige interior: beige headliner, beige fiberglass, accented with… beige upholstery ! I really find myself warming up to beige, cream, and off ...
Boat Interiors: A Guide To Design And Decor
Designers are involved from the early stages of the design process, even on production boats. Volume builders such as Beneteau and Sea Ray have now commissioned French and Italian design companies. As a result, the average boater expects superior levels of luxury interiors. From a design standpoint, boats are more challenging to design than ...
5 Sailboats with Exceptional Cockpits
Catalina 275. The boat is small, but the Catalina 275 still earns points for its spacious cockpit. It's easier to get a large cockpit on a large boat, but on the opposite end of the big cruising boat spectrum is the sporty Catalina 275. This sailboat builds a clever cockpit into much less space. Designer Gerry Douglas has always understood ...
The Ultimate Bluewater Sailboat with Inside Steering
TheShannon Pilot 43 is the answer for sailors who are looking for a short-handed, mid-sized ocean cruiser that allows them to get out of the weather. The wheelhouse offers protection from the sun, and shelter from the rain and cold, making the Pilot 43 the ultimate yacht for all seasons.
10 Best Sailboats To Live In
With plenty of places to sleep, there's no need to fold away the galley table to get some rest. The Catalina 38 is another fantastic mid-sized sailboat for living aboard, especially if you aren't quite comfortable inside a Catalina 30. 10. Hunter 33. nortonyachts.
Is "inside steering" really an advantage?
We have had pilot house sailboats for about 20 years here in the PNW. We use our boat year round although our "long" (6-8 weeks) cruise is during the summer. We enjoy the ability to be inside during bad weather while motoring as opposed to either being out in the cockpit, alone, or building a complete tent over it to escape the elements.
What Does a Catamaran Look Like Inside? (A Visual Guide)
Short Answer. A catamaran typically has a spacious interior with two or three cabins, a galley, and a dining area. Depending on the size of the catamaran, there may also be a navigation station, a wet bar, and even a lounge area. The main living area is usually open and filled with natural light due to the large windows.
Best Small Sailboats With Standing Headroom
Catalina 25. The Catalina 25 is arguably one of the most popular cruising sailboats of all time. There were around 5,866 built from 1978 up until 1994 and featured various offerings for keels. One of the more appealing features on the boat was the pop top section to allow standing headroom.
How To Live on a Sailboat
Always install at least one carbon monoxide (CO) detector in your boat, regardless of what kind of fuel you use inside. A sailboat cabin is essentially a ziplock bag and the perfect environment for carbon monoxide to settle. Install the meter near the floor, as carbon monoxide tends to sink. Additionally, an extra meter in your sleeping area is ...
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The best beginner sailboats with cabins are Catalina 22, West Wight Potter 19, Com-Pac 23, Hunter 240, MacGregor 26, Montgomery 17, O'Day 22, Precision 18, San Juan 21, Sea Pearl 21, Sirius 22, Tanzer 22, and Ventura 23. Their prices can range from around $5,000 to $30,000. Whether you're just dipping your toes into the world of sailing or ...
Refinish Your Interior Teak to Better Than New
Here are the basic steps that I follow to refinish interior teak: 1. If the wood has never been refinished or if the existing finish is in poor condition, remove it all from the sailboat so that you can work on it easier and apply the finish to all the surfaces. BEFORE - dull and dirty. 2.
Disadvantages of a pilot house design?
Ventilation and shade is critically important to keeping the inside of any sailboat cool in the tropics. In the cockpit I use 75% Phifertex for side curtains. The 75% allows better air flow than the 90%, but still keeps the cockpit from direct sunlight. Most boats with inside steering have hydraulic steering. The maintenance is bleeding the ...
Best Sailboats With 2 Cabins
The galley of Catalina 30 has large counter space and two private double cabins, one forward (V-berth) and one aft. The forward cabin is a V-berth formation. Also, the sofa converts and forms two more berths on the starboard side. It is possible to find a good and properly maintained Catalina 30 with the price of $15,000.
BENETEAU Oceanis 40.1
Following in the wake of her elder sister the Oceanis 46.1, this 40-foot cruiser, with a new hull design by Marc Lombard, offers unrivaled deck volume and interior space, with zero concessions to performance.The Oceanis 40.1 is available in different layouts, drafts and rig options, adapting to the most demanding sailor's cruising requirements and satisfying their need for comfort and ...
Inside the Owners' Club garden party at the Palm ...
BOAT International hosted the Owners' Club garden party event during the prestigious Palm Beach International Boat Show on 23 March. The event was supported by annual sponsor Bermuda Tourism Authority and event partners ABASK, Carla Guilhem Design and Ocean Alexander.. The venue. The setting for this year's event was the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, a historic home and gallery and former ...
Pirates of the Caribbean Ride Offends Guests, Shuts ...
Credit: Inside the Magic. On Saturday, TikTok user @dubillgaming shared this video of his party stuck on Pirates of the Caribbean. They spent two hours trapped in the small boat with other families.
Sentimental sailboat model stolen from historic Lantana restaurant
A sentimental sailboat model displayed inside a historic Lantana restaurant was taken by an alleged thief. Tue, 16 Apr 2024 14:06:07 GMT (1713276367469) ...
Inside the Abandoned Veterans Memorial Hospital Unit of Kings Park
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Amber Alert issued for missing Alabama brother, sister
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency issued an Amber Alert for Kaiden Tymari Perryman, 5, and his sister, Janayizha Qynterrica Gunn, 13. They were last seen around 9 p.m. Monday in the area of Gibbs ...
How Past Below Deck Guest Brandon Brought the "Drama"
Brandon previously appeared on Below Deck Down Under Season 2. While aboard the Northern Sun vessel, he forwent the yacht's rules by jumping in the ocean at night with another guest, Kristyl. The ...