Types of Sailboats

Over history, dozens of sailboat rigs have been developed and used for different types of boats in different circumstances. The "rig" refers to the combination of mast(s) and sail(s), which may vary considerably among boats of different sizes. Here is an introduction to the most common types of sailboat rigs found on the water today.

The 2012 Summer Olympics in London will have 10 sailing events. Here are pictures and descriptions of the 10 boats that will be raced in these events.

The keel of a sailboat is necessary to keep the boat from being blown sideways and usually also to provide ballast weight low in the water to reduce heeling. Different keel shapes have varying advantages and disadvantages for different kinds of sailboats.

The Laser is a small, fast sailboat often raced at clubs or in regional, national, and international races up to the Olympics. Learn all about the different Laser models here.

A sailboat is steered by the rudder, a flat vertical surface under the water at the stern. As the rudder is pivoted to one side by the tiller or steering wheel, the force of the water striking one edge of the rudder pushes the stern of the boat in the opposite direction, thereby turning the boat as it continues forward. Different types of rudders have different advantages and disadvantages.

In the past most sailboats with inborn engines had fixed propellers with 2 or 3 blades. While this type generally works well when the boat is under power, the prop causes drag when sailing and can reduce boat speed up to 15% in some conditions. Newer models of folding or feathered props greatly reduce drag and may have other advantages as well, but each type still has certain disadvantages.

The MacGregor 26M sailboat is a popular pocket cruiser for day sailing and short cruises. It trailers well and with a large outboard engine also moves like a fast powerboat. But this inexpensive sailboat may not be for everyone.

Catalina has a long history building sailboats, many of which are now classics in harbors around the U.S. A modified Catalina 27 even circumnavigated the globe. Catalinas range from 8-foot sailing dinghies to 47-foot ocean cruisers, which practically every size in between. In 2009 the Catalina 375 was chosen by Cruising World magazine as the Best All-Purpose Cruiser, 30 to 40 Feet.

Hunter Marine is a major U.S. manufacturer of sailboats. Their models range from daysailers starting at 14 feet to a number of trailerable and pocket cruisers to large cruisers up to 50 feet. Visit their site to learn more about their different boats and find a dealer in your area.

This Florida-based builder of midsize and large cruisers has earned its reputation for bluewater boats. Currently they build six models from 36 to 52 feet. Island Packet has gone against some contemporary trends and builds heavy boats with full keels for traditional ocean-crossing seaworthiness. Although they may not be the fastest boats around, they are among the strongest and most sea-kindly.

Since 1928 the Hinckley Company, based in Maine, has built elegant yachts that attract attention in harbors around the world. Often consider the Rolls Royce of sailboats, Hinckleys are known for their traditional lines, superb craftsmanship, and stunning brightwork and joinery. Current models range from 42 to 70 feet.

If you're thinking of buying a sailboat, it's important to consider many issues and questions about your needs and future activities before selecting a type and size of boat, and deciding whether to buy a new or used sailboat.

You need to consider many different questions when deciding what kind of sailboat is best for you. Depending on the general size range of the sailboats you may be interested in, you may need to choose between fixed-keel boats and centerboard (or swing keel or daggerboard) boats. This article will help you choose which is best for your needs.

If you are looking for a cruising sailboat, depending on your preferred size range, you may be choosing between a sloop and a ketch, the two most common types of cruising sailboats. Each offers certain advantages. This article will help you choose which is best for your needs.

If you are shopping for or buying a large daysailer or a small cruising sailboat, you may be choosing between sailboats that have an inboard engine and those having an outboard motor. Each offers certain advantages.

The Hunter 140 (14 feet long) has been a popular small daysailer for over a decade. It's a good, inexpensive sailboat for learning to sail and for a small family. Read the full review here.

For over 40 years, the 19-foot Mariner sailboat has been a popular classic daysailer. Read this full review to discover its strengths and weaknesses.

The 14-foot Sunfish sailboat is a very popular daysailer that has been around for decades and remains the almost perfect sailboat for certain situations. Read the review here and learn all about its strengths and weaknesses.

The MacGregor 26 has undergone many changes in different models over three decades. It can be a safe or dangerous sailboat, depending on how it is sailed. New owners should maintain certain cautions. Read this experienced owner's review.

This is the book you don't want to even think of going on a serious cruise without having read. Leonard, a most accomplished circumnavigator who's cruised all over the world, writes almost everything you need to know. Read the full review here.