Spec plate typical; models vary
- Length overall
- 35–55 ft
- Usually aboard
- 6–12 people
- Drive
- Sails with twin diesels
- Draft
- Moderate
- Where it lives
- Marina slip or mooring
- Towing
- Not usually trailered
- Skill to start
- Real training first
- Upkeep
- Heavy
Always go by the boat's own capacity plate and the builder's numbers. Towing classes are rough guides: check your vehicle's rated towing capacity.
Waters
- Ponds, small lakes and riversFair weather, with care
- Big lakes, bays and soundsMade for it
- Open ocean beyond the coastMade for it
Good at
- Sails level, so fewer seasick guests
- Huge deck and living space
- Easy to try first on a charter
Think twice
- Wide beam means wide (costly) slips
- Does not point as close to the wind as a monohull
- Two engines to keep
Ask before you buy or rent
- Chartering: what experience does the charter company require?
- Buying: survey and charter-fleet history?
- Both engines' hours and service?
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