Types of Sailboats
Over the thousands of years people have sailed, many different kinds of sailboats have been designed for different purposes. Learn about both historical and modern designs. Choosing the right boat for your own uses involves considering hull types, construction, and many other factors. Read reviews of common models and learn how to shop wisely.
Types of Sailboats and Rigs
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.
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.
Fixed, Folding, and Feathering Propellers for Sailboats
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.
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.
Sailboat Rudder Types
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.
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.
Sailboat Keel Shapes
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 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.
Review of MacGregor 26M Sailboat
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.
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 Sailboats
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.
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 Sailboats
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.
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.
Island Packet Yachts
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.
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.
Hinckley Yachts
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.
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.