Spec plate typical; models vary
- Length overall
- 26–50 ft
- Usually aboard
- 4–10 people
- Drive
- Sloop or cutter rig with an inboard diesel
- Draft
- Deep
- 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 in heavy weather with a crew who knows how
- Sleeps, cooks and lives aboard
- Wind is free once you own it
Think twice
- Deep draft limits where you can go
- Lots of systems: diesel, rigging, sails, plumbing
- Real training before you take it out
Ask before you buy or rent
- A marine survey and a rigging inspection?
- Age of the standing rigging and the sails?
- Engine hours and service records?
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