Boat types explained

All boat types

Twelve common types of sailboat, from beach dinghies to ocean-going catamarans. Select one to see its strengths, weaknesses and ratings.

Sailing Dinghy

The purest way to learn how a boat really sails

3–5 m (10–16 ft) · €1k–10k used

10 example models, e.g. ILCA (Laser), Optimist

Beach Catamaran

Flying a hull on a summer afternoon

4–6 m (14–20 ft) · €2k–15k used

7 example models, e.g. Hobie 16, Hobie 14

Keelboat Day Sailer

Relaxed afternoons that won't tip you in

5–8 m (16–26 ft) · €3k–25k used

7 example models, e.g. Rhodes 19, Sonar

Trailer Sailer / Pocket Cruiser

A tiny cabin and every lake on the map

5.5–7.5 m (18–25 ft) · €5k–40k used

14 example models, e.g. Catalina 22, MacGregor 26

Sport Boat / One-Design Racer

Planing downwind and racing tight fleets

6–9 m (20–30 ft) · €15k–60k used

6 example models, e.g. J/70, J/80

Folding Trimaran

Multihull speed that still fits on a trailer

6–10 m (20–33 ft) · €25k–150k used

7 example models, e.g. Farrier F-27, Corsair F-31

Coastal Cruiser

The versatile all-rounder for weekends and holidays

8–11 m (26–36 ft) · €20k–150k used

16 example models, e.g. Catalina 30, Catalina 36

Performance Cruiser

Win Wednesday's race, cruise on Saturday

9–12 m (30–40 ft) · €40k–250k used

11 example models, e.g. J/109, J/112E

Motorsailer / Deck Saloon

Warm, dry and upright, with an engine you can rely on

9–15 m (30–50 ft) · €60k–400k used

10 example models, e.g. Fisher 34, Southerly 38

Classic / Traditional Yacht

Timber, tradition and a gaff rig

6–15 m (20–50 ft) · €10k–200k used

10 example models, e.g. Nordic Folkboat, Laurent Giles Vertue

Bluewater Cruiser

Built to cross oceans and keep you safe out there

11–16 m (36–52 ft) · €80k–600k used

15 example models, e.g. Westsail 32, Contessa 32

Cruising Catamaran