So, have you decided to take a plunge into buying a small sailboat? Before you take a blind plunge into this, you should firstly consider what your lifestyle is like and what kind of a sailboat will be the perfect fit for you. Do you have plans of cruising with family and friends or wakeboarding? For each activity, the considerations are different. Here in this post, we will share with you our guide on the different kinds of boats which can make the buying process easier and less confusing. Once you’re sure about the kind of sailboat you’re looking for, you’re actually ready to begin with the process of buying boats.
Purchasing a sailboat, according to the experts is more of a process of self-evaluation as against just choosing a boat randomly among those that have been put up for sale. Not only should you consider the size of the boat also take into account the cost considerations. Here’s a checklist of the things you should take into account.
Famous classic daysailers and sailboats
- Laser
- Sunfish
- West Wight Potter 19
- Hunter 140
- Mariner 19
- MacGregor 26
Which is the perfect sailboat for you?
When you are all set to buy your dream boat, this process includes a list of considerations and analysis about the way you’ll use the boat. Here are the few key things to take into account.
Before you buy the best kind of boat that you may buy for your friends and family, you should:
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Choosing the appropriate size of sailboat
- Determine the costs of sails, gear, winter storage, berthing and other things. If you buy larger boats, maintenance costs are pretty higher.
- Keep in mind the work of sailing, whether you would need a sailing crew or whether you would sail alone.
In case you wish to cruise, take into account the number of crew members that will be onboard.
A used sailboat or a new one?
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Considerations on cost of the sailboat
In the sluggish economy, there are several sailboats put up for sale at discounted prices:
- The owners of the boat invest way more in enhancing their boats rather than what they can regain through a sale. Hence a buyer of a used boat will receive lot of gear for an amount which is way less than buying a new sailboat.
- Don’t hurry while choosing a second-hand boat. Buying a boat which needs too many upgrades might cost you big on your wallet. Sometimes the cost may be way more than buying a new boat. Hence, be slow and careful while getting a used boat.
- Plan for DIY improvements in a used boat
- Take into account the boatyard labor costs or upgrades and repairs as they’re gradually becoming too costly.
- Shop around for the gear that you need.
- Think whether or not you have energy and time to inculcate the required skills which you need to do it yourself.
- Don’t forget other related costs which you will incur post purchase
- One of the noteworthy expenses that you may have to incur while buying a larger boat is insurance. You may get estimates in advance.
- Where are you planning to keep your boat? Unless and until you plan to launch from a trailer whenever you sail your boat, you will have to pay costs for mooring, docking, winter storage and boat yard haulouts. Know about the costs before you purchase.
- If you plan to take out boat loans, they will have considerably higher rates than mortgages. Instead, you can take out a home equity loan.
Therefore, now that you’re aware of how you should purchase a sailboat and the things that you should consider before buying, what are you waiting for? Enter the market and choose the best sailboat.
FAQ
Which small sailboats are the best?
Everyone doesn’t need a 30-foot sailboat that is equipped with a galley and bunks while cruising. All that is needed is a hull, rudder, mast and sail. There’s nothing that is better than the thrill of a small sailboat that slips through the lake or the open ocean. Marblehead 22 Daysailer, Catalina 22 Sport, Hunter 22, West Wight Potter P19 and Montgomery 17 are few of the names of the best small sailboats.
Are small sailboats suitable for beginners?
Small sailboats are suitable for around 1-4 people, though the ideal number of people to hold are 1-2. These sailboats are little larger than dinghy and they are often fitted with winches, cleats in order to make them suitable and easy to operate for the beginners. Being a beginner, take into account all factors before buying a sailboat.
What are the prices for small sailboats?
A small sailboat of length 15-20ft can cost an average of $24,000, a 20-25ft sailboat can cost you around $58,000, a 25-30ft sailboat can cost you around $80,000 and a sailboat with a length of 30-35ft can cost you around $160,000. You have to determine your affordability, use and purpose before buying a small sailboat. If you are not an experienced user, it is better not to invest in the pricier sailboats initially. You may start off with the lower-priced ones and later on invest in the costlier ones.
