Characteristics: A Racer / Cruiser combines the best elements two very different types of sailboats. Offering the speed and performance of a race boat with the interior creature comforts of a cruising boat, Racer / Cruisers deliver performance sailing in a user-friendly package.
Rig Description: Racer / Cruisers are often hard to distinguish from their pure racing counterparts. Masts are tall and support a powerful sailplan. They are generally rigged as sloops. Modern models seem to be moving to a smaller jib (often fractional rig) with a powerful main. This alleviates the need for headsail changes and allows sailing under main alone if the wind pipes up.
Size Range: Thirty to 50-plus feet.
Hull: Fiberglass with generally deep keels (five-feet plus). For this reason, people sailing in "thin" (shallow) water, or where obstructions may be encountered, may prefer a more traditional cruising design.
Capacity: Generally sleep four to six adults comfortably.
Uses: Great for fast family sailing. Light racing may be appropriate, although several models have competitive one-design racing classes. As the boats get "racier," they tend to sacrifice comfort.
Limitations: Deep keels limit shallow-water sailing. Powerful sailplans can make them a handful in windy weather.
Other Considerations: With any performance machine comes maintenance. Sails for Racer / Cruisers tend to be made out of more exotic material than their cruising counterparts. Sun and abuse wear them out fairly quickly. Masts are known for tuning, not stoutness. Racer / Cruisers are best for advanced sailors who want to go fast, but be able to have a shower at anchor.
