18 foot catamaran sailboat

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20 Best Small Sailboats for the Weekender

• By Mark Pillsbury
• Updated: August 4, 2021

In order to go cruising, most of us require a sailboat with a head, a galley, and bunks. The boat, likely a 30-footer and more often a 40-footer, will have electronics for navigation and entertainment, refrigeration if the trip is longer than a coastal hop, an engine for light wind, and, depending on our appetites for food and fun, perhaps a genset to power our toys and appliances.

To go sailing , however, all we really need is a hull, mast, rudder, and sail. To experience the pure joy of sheeting in and scooting off across a lake, bay, or even the open ocean, there’s nothing better than a small sailboat – we’re talking sailboats under 25 feet. You can literally reach out and touch the water as it flows past. You instantly feel every puff of breeze and sense every change in trim.

Some of the boats in this list are new designs, others are time-tested models from small sailboat manufacturers, but every one is easy to rig, simple to sail, and looks like a whole lot of fun either for a solo outing on a breezy afternoon or to keep family and friends entertained throughout your entire sailing season. This list is made up of all types of sailboats , and if you’re looking for a list of some of the best small sailboats for beginners, you’ll find exactly that here.

Any one of these popular boats could be labeled as a trailerable sailboat, daysailer, or even a weekender sailboat. And while most would be labeled as a one or two person sailboat, some could comfortably fit three or even four people.

Marblehead 22 Daysailer

If you have an eye for elegant lines and your heart goes pitter-patter over just the right amount of overhang beneath a counter transom, the Marblehead 22 daysailer, designed by Doug Zurn and built by Samoset Boatworks in Boothbay, Maine, will definitely raise your pulse. Traditional-looking above the waterline and modern beneath, the cold-molded hull sports a deep bulb keel and a Hall Spars carbon-fiber mast with a wishbone rig and square-top main. The 11-foot-9-inch cockpit can seat a crowd, and a small cuddy forward will let you stow your friends’ gear for the day. samosetboatworks.com

Catalina 22 Sport

Many a harbor plays host to an active fleet of Catalina 22s, one of the most popular small sailboats over the years, given its basic amenities and retractable keel, which allows it to be easily trailered. Recently, the company introduced the Catalina 22 Sport, an updated design that can compete with the older 22s. The boat features a retractable lead keel; a cabin that can sleep four, with a forward hatch for ventilation; and a fractional rig with a mainsail and a roller-furling jib. Lifelines, a swim ladder, and an engine are options, as are cloth cushions; vinyl cushions are standard. The large cockpit will seat a crowd or let a mom-and-pop crew stretch out and enjoy their sail. It’s clear why the Catalina 22 is one of the best sailboats under 25 feet. catalinayachts.com

With its large, open-transom cockpit and sloop rig, the Hunter 22 makes a comfortable daysailer for family and friends. But with its cuddy cabin, twin bunks, optional electrical system, opening screened ports, and portable toilet, a parent and child or a couple could comfortably slip away for an overnight or weekend. Add in the optional performance package, which includes an asymmetric spinnaker, a pole, and a mainsheet traveler, and you could be off to the races. The boat features a laminated fiberglass hull and deck, molded-in nonskid, and a hydraulic lifting centerboard. Mount a small outboard on the stern bracket, and you’re set to go. marlow-hunter.com

Not sure whether you want to race, cruise or just go out for an afternoon sail? Since 1958, sailors have been having a ball aboard the Uffa Fox/George O’Day-designed Daysailer. Fox, who in the 1950s was on the cutting edge of planning-dinghy design, collaborated with Fall River, Massachusetts boatbuilder O’Day Corp. to build the 16-foot Daysailer, a boat that features a slippery hull and a small cuddy cabin that covers the boat roughly from the mast forward. Thousands of Daysailers were built by various builders, and they can be found used for quite affordable prices. There are active racing fleets around the US, and new Daysailers are still in production today, built by Cape Cod Ship Building. capecodshipbuilding.com

BayRaider from Swallow Boats

Easy to rig and trailer, the BayRaider from England’s Swallow Yachts is a relative newcomer to the small-boat market in the United States. Nearly all of its 19 feet 9 inches is open cockpit, though a spray hood can be added to keep the forward sections dry. The BayRaider is ketch-rigged with a gunter-style mainmast. The topmast and mizzen are both carbon-fiber, which is an option for the mainmast as well. The BayRaider can be sailed with a dry hull in lighter conditions or with 300 pounds of water ballast to increase its stability. With the centerboard and hinged rudder raised, the boat can maneuver in even the thinnest water.

$28,900, (904) 234-8779, swallowyachts.com

Big fun can come in small packages, especially if your vessel of choice happens to be the 12 ½-foot Beetle Cat. Designed by John Beetle and first built in 1921, the wooden shallow draft sailboat is still in production today in Wareham, Massachusetts at the Beetle Boat Shop. With a draft of just 2 feet, the boat is well-suited for shallow bays, but equally at home in open coastal waters. The single gaff-rigged sail provides plenty of power in light air and can be quickly reefed down to handle a blow. In a word, sailing a Beetle Cat is fun. beetlecat.com

West Wight Potter P 19

With berths for four and a workable galley featuring a cooler, a sink, and a stove, West Wight Potter has packed a lot into its 19-foot-long P 19. First launched in 1971, this is a line of boats that’s attracted a true following among trailer-sailors. The P 19′s fully retractable keel means that you can pull up just about anywhere and go exploring. Closed-cell foam fore and aft makes the boat unsinkable, and thanks to its hard chine, the boat is reportedly quite stable under way. westwightpotter.com

NorseBoat 17.5

Designed for rowing and sailing (a motor mount is optional), the Canadian-built NorseBoat 17.5—one of which was spotted by a CW editor making its way through the Northwest Passage with a two-man crew—features an open cockpit, a carbon-fiber mast, and a curved-gaff rig, with an optional furling headsail set on a sprit. The lapstrake hull is fiberglass; the interior is ply and epoxy. The boat comes standard with two rowing stations and one set of 9-foot oars. The boat is designed with positive flotation and offers good load-carrying capacity, which you could put to use if you added the available canvas work and camping tent. NorseBoats offers a smaller sibling, the 12.5, as well; both are available in kit form.

$19,000, (902) 659-2790, norseboat.com

Montgomery 17

Billed as a trailerable pocket cruiser, the Montgomery 17 is a stout-looking sloop designed by Lyle Hess and built out of fiberglass in Ontario, California, by Montgomery Boats. With a keel and centerboard, the boat draws just under 2 feet with the board up and can be easily beached when you’re gunkholing. In the cuddy cabin you’ll find sitting headroom, a pair of bunks, a portable toilet, optional shore and DC power, and an impressive amount of storage space. The deck-stepped mast can be easily raised using a four-part tackle. The builder reports taking his own boat on trips across the Golfo de California and on visits to California’s coastal islands. Montgomery makes 15-foot and 23-foot models, as well. If you’re in search of a small sailboat with a cabin, the Montgomery 17 has to be on your wish list.

With long overhangs and shiny brightwork, the CW Hood 32 is on the larger end of the daysailer spectrum. Designers Chris Hood and Ben Stoddard made a conscious decision to forego a cabin and head in favor of an open cockpit big enough to bring 4 or 5 friends or family out for an afternoon on the water. The CW Hood 32 is sleek and graceful through the water and quick enough to do some racing, but keeps things simple with a self-tacking jib and controls that can be lead back to a single-handed skipper. A top-furling asymmetrical, electric sail drive and Torqeedo outboard are all optional. The CW Hood 32 makes for a great small family sailboat.  cwhoodyachts.com

Sun Cat from Com-Pac

Shallow U.S. East Coast bays and rock-strewn coasts have long been graced by cat boats, whose large, gaff-rigged mainsails proved simple and powerful both on the wind and, better yet, when reaching and running. The 17-foot-4-inch Sun Cat, built by Com-Pac Yachts, updates the classic wooden cat with its fiberglass hull and deck and the easy-to-step Mastender Rigging System, which incorporates a hinged tabernacle to make stepping the mast a one-person job. If you want a personal sailboat ideal for solo sailing, the Sun Can is a great choice. Belowdecks, the twin 6-foot-5-inch berths and many other features and amenities make this cat a willing weekender.

$19,800, (727) 443-4408, com-pacyachts.com

Catalina 16.5

The Catalina 16.5 sits right in the middle of Catalina Yachts’ line of small sailboats, which range from the 12.5 to the 22 Capri and Sport, and it comes in both an easy-to-trailer centerboard model and a shoal-draft fixed-keel configuration. With the fiberglass board up, the 17-foot-2-inch boat draws just 5 inches of water; with the board down, the 4-foot-5-inch draft suggests good windward performance. Hull and deck are hand-laminated fiberglass. The roomy cockpit is self-bailing, and the bow harbors a good-sized storage area with a waterproof hatch. catalinayachts.com

No roundup of best small sailboats (trailerable and fun too) would be complete without a mention of the venerable Hobie 16, which made its debut in Southern California way back in 1969. The company has introduced many other multihulls since, but more than 100,000 of the 16s have been launched, a remarkable figure. The Hobie’s asymmetric fiberglass-and-foam hulls eliminate the need for daggerboards, and with its kick-up rudders, the 16 can be sailed right up to the beach. Its large trampoline offers lots of space to move about or a good place to plant one’s feet when hanging off the double trapezes with a hull flying. The boat comes with a main and a jib; a spinnaker, douse kit, trailer, and beach dolly are optional features. hobiecat.com

Novice sailors or old salts looking for simplicity could both enjoy sailing the Hunter 15. With a fiberglass hull and deck and foam flotation, the boat is sturdily built. The ample freeboard and wide beam provide stability under way, and the heavy-duty rubrail and kick-up rudder mean that you won’t have to worry when the dock looms or the going grows shallow. Both the 15 and its slightly larger 18-foot sibling come standard with roller-furling jibs.

$6,900/$9,500 (boat-show prices for the 15 and 18 includes trailers), (386) 462-3077, marlow-hunter.com

Super Snark

Under various owners, the Snark brand of sailboats, now built by Meyers Boat Co., has been around since the early 1970s. The Super Snark, at 11 feet, is a simple, easily car-topped daysailer that’s fit out with a lateen rig and sail. Billed as unsinkable, the five boats in the company’s line are built with E.P.S. foam, with the external hull and deck vacuum-formed to the core using an A.B.S. polymer. The Super Snark weighs in at 50 pounds, and with a payload capacity of 310 pounds, the boat can carry two.

$970, (800) 247-6275, meyersboat.com

Norseboat 21.5

Built in Canada, the NorseBoat 21.5 is a rugged looking craft that comes in a couple of configurations: one with an open cockpit and small doghouse, and another with a smaller cockpit and cabin that houses a double berth for two adults and optional quarter berths for the kids. Both carry NorseBoat’s distinctive looking carbon fiber gaff-rigged mast with main and jib (a sprit-set drifter is optional), and come with a ballasted stub keel and centerboard. Because of its lightweight design, the boat can be rowed and is easily trailered.

$36,000 (starting), 902-659-2790, norseboat.com

Flying Scot

Talk about time-tested, the 19-foot Flying Scot has been in production since 1957 and remains a popular design today. Sloop rigged, with a conventional spinnaker for downwind work, the boat is an easily sailed family boat as well as a competitive racer, with over 130 racing fleets across the U.S. Its roomy cockpit can seat six to eight, though the boat is often sailed by a pair or solo. Hull and deck are a fiberglass and balsa core sandwich. With the centerboard up, the boat draws only eight inches. Though intended to be a daysailer, owners have rigged boom tents and berths for overnight trips, and one adventurous Scot sailor cruised his along inland waterways from Philadelphia to New Orleans.

Known primarily for its line of racing dinghys, RS Sailing also builds the 16-foot, 4-inch Venture, which it describes as a cruising and training dinghy. The Venture features a large, self-draining cockpit that will accommodate a family or pack of kids. A furling jib and mainsail with slab reefing come standard with the boat; a gennaker and trapeze kit are options, as is an outboard motor mount and transom swim ladder. The deck and hull are laid up in a fiberglass and Coremat sandwich. The Venture’s designed to be both a good performer under sail, but also stable, making it a good boat for those learning the sport.

$14,900, 203-259-7808, rssailing.com

Topper makes a range of mono- and multihull rotomolded boats, but the model that caught one editor’s eye at Strictly Sail Chicago was the Topaz Taz. At 9 feet, 8 inches LOA and weighing in at 88 pounds, the Taz is not going to take the whole crowd out for the day. But, with the optional mainsail and jib package (main alone is for a single child), the Taz can carry two or three kids or an adult and one child, and would make a fun escape pod when tied behind the big boat and towed to some scenic harbor. The hull features Topper’s Trilam construction, a plastic and foam sandwich that creates a boat that’s stiff, light, and durable, and shouldn’t mind being dragged up on the beach when it’s time for a break.

$2,900 (includes main and jib), 410-286-1960, topazsailboats.com

WindRider WRTango

WRTango, a fast, sturdy, 10-foot trimaran that’s easy to sail, is the newest portable craft from WindRider International. It joins a line that includes the WR16 and WR17 trimarans. The Tango features forward-facing seating, foot-pedal steering, and a low center of gravity that mimics the sensation of sitting in a kayak. It weighs 125 pounds (including the outriggers and carbon-fiber mast), is extremely stable, and has single-sheet sail control. The six-inch draft and kick-up rudder make it great for beaching, while the hull and outriggers are made of rotomolded polyethylene, so it can withstand running into docks and being dragged over rocks.

$3,000, 612-338-2170, windrider.com

• More: 21 - 30 ft , Boat Gallery , day sailing , dinghy , Sailboat Reviews , Sailboats , under 20 ft
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Hobie 18 Boats for sale

Hobie Cat 18

Beverly, New Jersey

Length 18.0

Posted Over 1 Month

Solid hulls with no soft spots. Newer trampoline with extra dagger board and two trapezes. Trailer is solid and ready to go. Full set of sails. Available to inspect anytime.

1976 Hobie Cat Hobie 18

Phoenix, Arizona

Make Hobie Cat

Model Hobie 18

1976 Hobie Cat Hobie 18 Hobie Cat 18. This is a great boat and a blast to sail. New jib, trampoline, sheets, tiller arm and standing rigging. I picked this boat up in California five years ago and completed a total rehab, the hulls are solid. I trailer the boat to Rocky Point, Mexico to sail off Sandy Beach. There are many accessories (Cat Tracs, life jackets, harnesses, etc) and spare parts included. This is a fast boat. The boat will hold four but is fastest with two. Everything you need to sail tomorrow is included. The boat is located in Phoenix, Arizona, 85024. Check for shipping costs to your location.

1985 Hobie Cat 18

Goodland, Florida

Category Daysailer Sailboats

1985 Hobie Cat 18 The Hobie l8 catamaran is recognized around the world as one of the finest performance multihulls. Prestigious events like the Championship of Champions and the U.S. Multihull Championships, both sponsored by the United States Yacht Racing Union, have been contested on the 18. More complex the Hobie 18 catamaran is designed for racing, but also makes an excellent cruising boat for three or four people. Pop on Magnum wings, better performance and more room for cruising. Tuning options are almost limitless. Symmetrical hulls minimize wetted surface and easily carry heavier crews. The large main and genoa drive the boat hard through any water condition. Road trailer reconditionedCall Ali    989 390 9182Too SeeLocated in Harbor in Springs, MI

2001 Hobie Cat 18

2001 Hobie Cat 18 The Hobie l8 catamaran is recognized around the world as one of the finest performance multihulls. Prestigious events like the Championship of Champions and the U.S. Multihull Championships, both sponsored by the United States Yacht Racing Union, have been contested on the 18. More complex the Hobie 18 catamaran is designed for racing, but also makes an excellent cruising boat for three or four people. Pop on Magnum wings, better performance and more room for cruising. Tuning options are almost limitless. Symmetrical hulls minimize wetted surface and easily carry heavier crews. The large main and genoa drive the boat hard through any water condition. Road trailer reconditionedCall Ali    989 390 9182Too SeeLocated in Harbor in Springs, MI

1980 Hobie 18'

Jacksonville, Florida

Model 18'

Category Catamarans

Great condition 2 very small soft spots. Recently started the process of fiberglassing inside the hull where the delamination has occured. Comes with Main and Jib sail, along with all blocks tackle and rigging.Trampoline is in poor shape, easy to replace though. Have owned it and sailed the boat a little over a year. Currently she is sitting awaiting to have the mast stood up to go sailing again. But I also have a N.A.C.R.A. 5.2 which I plan on getting set up for single handing with a spin. The Hobie 18 is a great starter family boat to go out to the beach, lake, or river sailing. Very fast and easy to control. If you are interested in this or have any questions please message me.

hobie 18, with wings

Guilford, Connecticut

great fun used but good condition new black mesh for the wings, blue vinyl trampoline, sail are good.trailer is registered in CT.visible in Guilford CT.

2006 Hobie Tiger 18

Beach Haven, New Jersey

Model Tiger

Category Catamaran Sailboats

For sale is my 2006 Hobie Tiger 18 on a load rite trailer. Both the trailer and the boat are in great condition. She is set up with a self tacking jib and comes with one main sheet, two jibs and a spinnaker. The trailer can be converted to stack two cats on it (I do not have the racks for this). This is a great boat that I unfortunately do not have the time to use. Beach wheels are included. Clean title in hand. Local pickup only. I will not ship. I only accept cash or direct wire transfer for payment. Feel free to ask any questions and I will answer them to the best of my ability.

1979 Hobie Cat 18 CAT

Napa, California

Model 18 CAT

18 FT. HOBIE CAT WITH SOFT SPOTS ON HULL BUT NO LEAKS. RIGGED FOR ONE PERSON WITH TILLER STAYS. SAILS AND TRAMP ARE GOOD FOR 4 OR 5 MORE YEARS. LOTS OF SPARE PARTS. LARGE STEEL LOCK UP BOX FOR STORING . TRAILER HAS LARGE WIDE TIRES. VERY FAST WITH ONE SAILOR. WILL DELIVER IN STATE $ 1.00 per mile KEN'S CEL 707-342-0885 PAY WITH PAYPAL

1992 Hobie Cat 18SX

Bonney Lake, Washington

1992 Hobie Cat 18SX, 1992 HOBIE CAT 18SX FOR SALE. EXCELLENT CONDITION AND NO HULL DELAMINATION PROBLEMS. NEW WHIRLWIND SAILS - 6 YRS. OLD - (HAVE ORIGINAL MARDIGRAS JIB AND MAIN), NEW LINES AND SPINNAKER WITH POLE AND RIGGING. RACE RUDDERS (HAVE ORIGINAL BLACK VINYLS) AND HOTSTICK TILLER. HAVE A PLASTIC MILK CRATE WITH ORGANIZERS OF THINGS TO KEEP YOU SAILING. $3500

Hobie 18 Magnum Sailing Catamaran

Lake George, New York

Model 18 Mag

18' hobie magnum catamaran for sale. It come with wings (magnum) and is also rigged for trapeze wires, 2 each sides. the wings are really nice bit if its really blowing and you want to push her you can fly a hull while on the wire. It is also rigged with a righting system/rope that pulls up under the shear when not in use. This is so much more boat than a 16 but not in an intimidating way. I sailed her solo often thanks to the wings. Unlike a 16 she is also still fast and fun with 3 people on board. The hull is equipped with dagger boards each side. The year is 1983Trailer is galvanized and is included. Main sail is sun burst and the jib is all white. I can step the mast and rig her by myself but 2 makes it much easier. I will show you or help you rig her up if you're local.

1981 Hobie Cat HOBIE CAT HOLDER

Quakertown, Pennsylvania

Model HOBIE CAT HOLDER

1981 Hobie Cat HOBIE CAT HOLDER Hull Type: Lifting Keel Rig Type: Fractional Sloop LOA: 20.33' / 6.20m LWL: 18.42' / 5.61m Beam: 7.83' / 2.39m Listed SA: 194 ft2 / 18.02 m2 Draft (max.) 3.58' / 1.09m Draft (min.) 1.00' / 0.30m Displacement: 1160 lbs./ 526 kgs. Ballast: 260 lbs. / 118 kgs. Sail Area/Disp.1: 28.17 Bal./Disp.: 22.43% Disp./Len.: 82.86 Designer: Ron Holder/Dave Ulmann Builder: Vagabond Sailboats/Hobie Construction: FG Bal. type: First Built: 1980 Last Built: 1987 # Built: 265 RIG AND SAIL PARTICULARS KEY I(IG): 22.60' / 6.89m J: 7.25' / 2.21m P: 24.04' / 7.33m E: 9.33' / 2.84m PY: EY: ISP: SPL/TPS: SA(Fore.): 81.93 ft2 / 7.61 m2 SA(Main): 112.15 ft2 / 10.42 m2 Sail Area (100% fore+main triangles): 194.07 ft2 / 18.03 m2 Sail Area/Disp.2: 28.18 Est. Forestay Length.: 23.73' / 7.23m BUILDERS (past & present) More about & boats built by: Hobie Cat DESIGNER More about & boats designed by: Ron Holder - 1981 HOBIE CAT HOLDER 20

18'6 Hobie Tandum Island 2012

South Tamworth, New Hampshire

Boat owners notes for 2012 HOBIE Tandum Island call John at 603-236-1435. The HOBIE Tandum Island has a proven track record, It is incredibly fast and I have done over 16 MPH with it and It will sail in a very light wind but becomes a rocket when the wind is up (very exciting), It has a large responsive rudder and a drop down center board that can be raised for shallow water, This kayak has twin mirage drive flippers and is faster peddled than you can paddle, So if the wind dies, you can still travel at a good rate of speed, It can also be paddled. I have sailed this in very rough waters and the out riggers keep it stable, You can stand up in it with no danger of tipping over, With a conventional Kayak if you see the mountains twenty miles away...you will think twice about paddling that far, With a Hobie Tandum...its a quick trip when the wind is up, You can tack into the wind unlike many kayaks that have just a simple sail that you can only go in the direction of the wind, This is a true sail boat and is faster than most larger sail boats. The Hobie is great to fish out of or use as a swim platform, This is a 2012 boat and has not had much use, I bought one in New Zealand and that is where I will do my sailing.,I sail on the ocean and absolutely love this boat. I have used it camping and can haul all the gear with no problem, a safe load is 600 pounds, There are three large storage compartments to put your gear and food, I have also strapped a cooler behind the rear seat. When the wind comes up...you can feel the acceleration...like a motorcycle, it is amazing and more fun than I can describe, I built this single axle all aluminum trailer in my machine shop and it was custom designed just for the Tandum Island, It has high ground clearance and is perfectly balanced, It is all aluminum square tube construction, 6061-T6 aluminum with .25 wall thickness...so it is strong and light,the trailer has independent suspension on each wheel. Total weight of the boat is just over 200 pounds and it is so easy to launch with the beach wheels or the trailer, The trailer uses the Hobie Factory cradles designed for the Tandum Island, This boat is made to sail and go the distance, and it can handle rough water with ease, The higher the wind, the wider the smile. The boat is available for sale without the trailer for $4,500. Questions? Call John at 603-236-1435.

1986 Hobie Cat Magnum Wing 18

Sarasota, Florida

Private Seller (941) 400-3854 Photos Photo 1 Photo 2 Close Request Information * Name First Name * Email Telephone (optional) Best Time to Contact Anytime Morning Mid-day Evening Question/Comments (optional) Shop Safely: Protect Your Money. By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use. Contact Seller 1986 Hobie Cat Magnum Wing 18, 1986 Hobie 18. Hulls are very stiff, no soft spots. This is a strong boat. Includes:ALL NEW STANDING RIGGING.NEW HOT STICK TILLERLOWER RUDDER CASINGSCAM ASSEMBLIESONE PIECE TRAMPincludes Harken blocks, trapeze for 2 (and at least one bucket seat), mast cradle for trailering, and solid trailer. Comp Tip Mast.Also includes: MAGNUM WINGS.with brand new black tramp covers. And BRAND NEW MOUNTING HARDWARE. (wings are not currently installed on the boat. You can see the frames and covers in one of the included photos.)Also includes the old tramp covers. The new ones need grommets installed.You will not find a cleaner, stronger Hobie 18. She is a a dream boat. Please email me with any questions you have. I look forward to hearing from you! $3700, 9414003854 Be sure: Get a boat history report|Finance this boat|Get an insurance quote|

1986 Hobie Cat Magnum

Santa Fe, Texas

Model Magnum

1986 Hobie Cat Magnum, Hobie 18' Magnum Nationals sail boat. Two sets of sails. Red and Blue. Has matching jib sails as well. Excellent condition. Nice sail box for equipment. Galvanized trailer with new tires. Has always been kept inside and out of sun. Will not find a nicer sailboat than this one. $5000.00

2015 Sailbird 18

Satellite Beach, Florida

Make Sailbird

2015 Sailbird 18 18 FT (21FT LOA) SAILBIRD RACING TRIMIRAN. COMPLETELY RECONSTRICTED USING HIGH TECH CLOSED CELL FOAM STRINGERS, BULKHEADS, FLOOR, & SWING KEEL. NO WOOD ANYWHERE! 11'6" BeamSAILS: FULLY BATTENED SQUARE TOP MAIN SAIL ON 26 FT MAST, 165% SCREECHER ON HARKEN ROLLER FURLER, ON STAINLESS BOW PULPIT, JIB ON HARKEN ROLLER FURLER. SAILS ARE BY MAC SAILS OF STUART. MAC SAILS ALSO RIGGED THE BOAT. THIS BABY FLYS. VIRTUALLY SAILS IN ALMOST NO WIND VERY EASY TO SAILPLENTY OF STORAGE AND ROOM, BUILT IN COOLER. VERY LIGHTWEIGHT AND STRONG.BOAT COMPLETELY REDONE EARLY 2016 WITH AWLGRIP PAINT TOPSIDES AND INTERLUX VC PERFORMANCE PAINT ON THE BOTTOM. MANY EXTRASNew Spinaker, New Minnkota trolling motor also available SHE CAN BE FOLDED UP FOR EASY TRANSPORT IF DESIREDBASICALLY WHAT A HOBIE CAT CATAMARAN WISHES IT WAS !SADLY I MUST SELL HER. MAKE OFFERBOAT IS ON A CUSTOM LIFT THAT IS AVAILABLE FOR AN ADDITIONAL COST IF NEEDED.321-536-5511 CALLS ONLY '

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Affordable Sailboats You Can Build at Home

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

September 13, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

• There are many sailboats that anyone can build from home depending on tastes
• Budget will be the biggest deciding factor on a majority of the process
• Consider kits that come with most of what you need or choose ones that are all-inclusive
• Design complexities and new materials may make the building time process longer
• Plan the best you can ahead of time to save money and your working hours

‍ Buying a sailboat can be expensive, but building your own can save you money. So what are sailboats you can build from home?

Sailboats that you can build from home will likely be a small boat under 20 feet. These could be from many different boat suppliers such as B&B Yachts, Brooks Boat Designs, and Chase Small Craft. Boat plans will vary based on your budget and how much time you have on your hands.

Based on my previous experience, building your own boat will take much longer than if a professional were to do it. You also have to be able to study plans, consider various sailboat designs, and have tons of supplies such as fiberglass tape or fiberglass cloth. On top of that, you will also have to be good with your hands.

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‍ Top 10 Affordable Sailboats Anyone Can Build at Home

Building your own pocket cruiser or other styles from boat plans is an impressive feat, as this will need dedicated time and money to assure your boat sails safely. Boat building takes a lot of patience as well, especially since this will not be completed in a fast manner.

Finding boat plans and materials that fit your budget will be key to being able to complete the project. The time it takes to complete these projects will vary on your overall experience and needs. Below are 10 of the most affordable sailboats that you can build in the comfort of your home.

B&B Yachts

B&B Yachts have 14 different boat plans you can choose from to find the boat of your desires. Their shop is located along the Bay River in North Carolina where they construct all of the kits and have a 100 foot dock to show off your project once you complete it.

One popular model to check out is their Core Sound 15, as it is the perfect size for those wanting to build a modest size boat for a handful of people on board. Their website features some videos of completed projects and the plans or kits for purchase.

• 14 different models to choose from plus some dinghies
• Various monohull and multihull options
• Friendly customer service with attractive prices
• Might be too many options for some that are indecisive
• Not ideal for those wanting to have a motor sailer

Brooks Boat Designs

Brooks Boat Designs has a handful of options to consider for your next sailboat building project. They are located in Brookline, Maine and give the option to buy the kits or have them build one from scratch for you. They have plenty of knowledge, so do not be shy to ask about modifications or custom features you are looking for.

Depending on your specifics, they can attempt to accommodate some of their plans to help fit your desired outcome. By checking out their site, you can see many examples of their construction in progress and what the boats will look like when completed.

• Offers a variety of kits
• Plans vary around $50 and up, while materials will obviously add more costs
• Some plans can be rowing boats that can convert to sailboats
• Might take a while to hear back from them, as their contact section is a little outdated
• Their plans may not accommodate a ton of extras for your taste

Chase Small Craft

Chase Small Craft offers a simple process for building boats. Their kits are equipped with everything you need and will help save you time than just buying the materials outright and other parts you could need. This is arguably one of the best bang for buck instances if you want to save time and money searching for pieces to your boat.

They are located in Saco, Maine and will ship everything to your home from there. All the necessary materials are included and all you need are the proper tools and working space.

• All-inclusive kits with what you need
• Tons of knowledge on their site for boat building
• Easy process to order and customize
• Complete kits can range over $20,000 for larger boats
• Kits may take up to eight weeks to ship out

Chesapeake Light Craft

You can expect high-quality boat kits from Chesapeake Light Craft . They feature 18 different sailboat kits that vary from eight to 20 feet in length. This should be more than enough to find one for you if you are newer to boat building.

They also have a wide variety of other kits in addition to the sailboat, in the event that you wanted to order a small kayak or paddleboard in addition to your sailboat. The prices vary considerably when considering a small or larger boat, so check the complete list of options to in order to potentially fit your needs.

• Plenty of sailboat offerings to choose from
• Different beautiful hull form options to consider
• Easy to build and perfect for sailing
• Only has basic materials needed for kit, so you may need to purchase other items
• Has epoxy shipping fee no matter if you pick up item

Dudley Dix Yacht Design

Dudley Dix Yacht Design has an extensive list of plywood and single skin sailing boat options. They have plenty of sail plans and kits to consider depending on your goals. These follow a classic look for sailboats, which are aesthetically pleasing.

If you are wanting one to accommodate a small family, they have more than plenty to look through. The cost is not as bad compared to others, but keep in mind that you may need to throw in your own supplies or specific tools to get the job done.

• Plans start at $30 and range up to $7,500 or more for kits
• More than enough of options to consider
• Affordable variety of sailboat offerings
• Might be too many options for those new to sailing
• Most are wood without the use of aluminum or steel

Farrier Marine

If you are in search of a multihull to build, then Farrier Marine is what you need. They offer a unique folding catamaran that is trailerable and give you the option to build it yourself. This not only makes it an appealing option, but anyone can take this multihull boat wherever they want with ease.

It features a thorough construction guide once you receive all of the materials. These also come with stainless steel fasteners and an aluminum mast for high-quality materials. Pricing will vary since you must request which model type you are considering.

• Ability to build a unique catamaran
• In-depth construction guide to help
• Easily handled and trailerable
• Price may be too high
• Limited offerings since only a few multihull options

Glen-L Marine Designs

Building a boat from Glen-L Marine Designs can save you time and money. They feature an easy system to order and receive the kits, as well as an in-depth guide to building them. This is an appealing option compared to most boat kit sellers.

The beauty about Glen-L is that anyone can build these from scratch, so you do not have to be the best boat builder in the world to get it done. They offer guides and helpful insights from their team to point you in the right direction. Plans vary around $15, while kits can range well over $1,000 depending on boat size.

• Nearly 50 designs to choose from
• Complete guide to help anyone build it
• Plenty of price points depending on size
• Might be overwhelming with the amount of options
• Could take a while to get parts since they are popular

John Welsford Boat Designs

John Welsford Boat Designs invites new and veteran boat builders that want a taste of quality small wooden boats. The boat plans are designed to meet your specifications and are catered to your desires.

There are seven sailboat designs to choose from so you do not feel overwhelmed in the process. However, they do not sell kits all the time, so you would need to have the materials or be on the lookout for the best prices when they are available.

• Seven sailboat plans with different sizes
• Quality boat builder and supporting community
• In-depth knowledge provided to you when you order
• Might be too small of boat size
• Kits are not always available

Iain Oughtred

There are plenty of options on the wooden boat store, but you should narrow down your search for Iain Oughtred’s line of sailboat kits and plans. There are 25 different plans to choose from, which should accommodate most everyone looking to build their own boat.

While they do offer some kits, they do not routinely offer sailboat kits. You would need to purchase all of the materials if you are considering one of their sail plans. Keep this in mind if you are considering, as you would need to hunt down the parts yourself.

• 25 different sailboat plans to look through
• Various sizes to contemplate for you sailing needs
• Prices will vary but are not bad compared to market
• No sailboat kits, only plans
• Newer boat builders might find too many options unappealing

Paul Gartside Boat Builder and Designer

Gartside Boats is a boat builder company based in Long Island, New York that showcases a variety of boats from traditional and newer methods of boat building. Within that variety, they have boat plans meant for six to 50 feet in length.

With an abundance of options, you will need to contact them regarding prices and any customizable options. Kits may vary as well, as they typically design in-house and build for you.

• Experienced boat designer that can accommodate with custom plans
• Many options are trailerable
• Can have plans for up to a 50 foot boat
• You will need to contact them for prices
• Customized options may make process more complicated for new boat builders

How Much Does it Cost to Build a Sailboat at Home?

As you have likely already done so, the math between building your own boat and buying one may be a huge difference. Likewise, you may even enjoy the challenge of taking an older boat that is gutted and restoring with parts from a kit to build one new again.

But how much does it cost exactly to build a boat from the comfort of your own garage or workshop? The prices are going to vary dramatically depending on your situation and material needed to get the job done. In addition, the time that it takes to complete this will also vary.

Sail plans are rather inexpensive if you are aiming to build a small boat. These plans allow you to see the workings of the boat design and what you need to build the boat.

Without these plans, you will not know the exact details of the design and it can cause major issues with the boat’s hull or other areas of the boat. Think of these as the backbone or instructions of the boat’s infancy before being built.

Price Per Square Foot

You should assume to pay anywhere between $300 to $600 per square foot if you are interested in building a boat. Buying a kit outright can be a good way to save time, but oftentimes these do not come with everything you need.

Instead, you should try to source as much of the materials at the best price as possible. Thinking ahead is part of the process and you might be able to score a deal at a lumber yard or hardware store for parts.

Boat Designs Matter

The design of the boat will be much different from one boat to the next, regardless if they are the same size in length. If you are pondering boats that range anywhere between 16 and 20 feet, you should factor in the shape of the hull, any rigging, and various appendages.

Prices tend to increase when there are more complexities within the designs. If you are considering a kit with more details than others, you will also have to pay more for the designs on that as well.

Kits Can Differ

It is important to understand that all kits are not going to be the same. As you gander at sailboat kits online to stitch together, you need to thoroughly look over to see if you have everything you need before buying.

It would also be at your advantage to ask the seller if any additional parts or supplies are needed. This may change your dynamic on the kit buying process and you may pass up one for another if it has everything you need. An all-inclusive kit may cost several hundred, if not thousands, of dollars more to have the convenience of everything in the bundle.

Construction Approaches

Some boat plans may require you to have certain tools to get the job done. This means special saws or planers, which the average person simply does not have.

Purchasing specialty tools might be expensive upfront and hard to find depending on what it is. Your best bet would be to check locally for others trying to sell their tools or consider a boat plan that does not require extensive tools to finish the job.

How Long Does it Take to Build a Sailboat?

An easy to build sailboat could take a while to build from scratch. Many different variances come into play that are difficult to pinpoint for everyone. But how long is that exactly and how will your experience play into this?

A fun project to sail in the wind could take you several months to well over a year depending on the boat plan and how big your boat is going to be. In addition, the materials all need to be accounted for prior to starting in the event a hardware store does not have them in stock.

Time Varies

The time that passes for simple boat designs on small sailing vessels can be done in a few weeks. This is assuming you have everything you need and work non-stop around the clock.

Certain complex situations may make the process long, such as the difficulty of working with some materials. If you are a skilled laborer, it may take you half the time compared to a novice. The amount of time it can take will vary on your availability and skill level.

Planning ahead will undoubtedly offer the most time-saving features. It also helps if you can tackle parts of the project at your own pace.

Complexity of Design

The design of the boat may make the construction process longer. For example, it may take you longer to build a catamaran compared to a similar lengthed monohull.

More complex designs might require more materials, therefore making the process a bit longer to complete. Furthermore, you will also need more experience working with difficult designs and that will affect you more as a newbie.

Be sure to manage your expectations well and do not allow yourself to become too stressed over this fun project. If you can, seek expert boat building advice from a local builder or the company you purchased sail plans through.

Quality Materials

The quality of the materials will matter significantly when building a boat and will greatly affect the time it takes to construct it. Handling fiberglass or carbon fiber might require specialty tools, while wood also demands a certain level of craftsmanship.

If you are not skilled at working with the material at hand, it might affect the quality of the build and you may have to go back to fix mistakes. This will definitely add more time to your project, because mistakes are bound to happen with your first project.

To save time, consider adding the tools and materials throughout the year or as often as your budget allows. You may want to try testing your skills on fiberglass or other materials to get a feel for how to work with it.

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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