best 40 ft cruising yacht

• THE PRINCESS PASSPORT
• Email Newsletter
• Yacht Walkthroughs
• Destinations
• Electronics
• Boating Safety
• Ultimate Boating Giveaway

14 Great Pocket Cruisers in 2023

• By Victor Tan
• Updated: July 20, 2023

Pocket cruisers and mini yachts are generally vessels under 50 feet in length overall, and can include express cruiser designs, flybridge yachts as well as either monohull or catamaran hull forms. They are cruising boats easily handled by a small, or even shorthanded, crew. Pocket cruisers generally have wave-taming hull designs and have the ability to take on sporty seas, offer comfortable accommodations belowdecks with one or two staterooms for extended voyages, “homelike amenities,” and the ability to cruise as slowly or as quickly as an owner desires with inboard- and outboard-power options. These pocket-cruising boats have the range for longer voyages , can pull up in skinny water at the sandbar thanks to shallow drafts, and head over the horizon where cruising adventure awaits. Pocket cruisers are true multitasking yachts. When it comes to family and couples cruising, it’s hard to beat a well-built and well-equipped and pocket cruiser.

Best Cruising Boats Under 50-Feet

The following 14 pocket cruisers and mini yachts are all vessels we’ve seen, been aboard, and tested. They are listed in no particular order.

• Hood 35 LM: high-tech, family-friendly pocket cruiser
• Galeon Yachts 375 GTO: mid-size boat with plenty of below-deck space
• Aquila 42: sleek power catamaran ready to entertain
• Azimut Verve 42 : small, yet mighty yacht ready for open water
• Hinckley Yachts 35: luxury picnic cruiser with range
• Beneteau Gran Turismo 45: sleek cruising yacht with all the amenities
• Solaris Power 48 Open: eye-catching power yacht with 360-degree views
• Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS: luxury cruiser yacht with powerful outboard options
• Back Cove 34O: modern outboard power combined with classic Downeast styling
• Picnic Boat 40: speedy and fuel-efficient vessel with great looks
• Aquila 36: comfortably seat up to 20 guests for fun on the salt
• Boston Whaler 350 Realm: multitasker built for fishing and entertaining
• MJM 35z: sporty, aesthetically pleasing, cruising-conscious features and elegant lines
• Greenline 39: sturdy-looking lines and environmentally-friendly power

When Android co-founder, Rich Miner, wanted a new family-friendly pocket cruiser , he turned to a custom-penned C.W. Hood design and a Lyman-Morse-built 35-footer, which has a timeless Down East profile matched to seriously modern technology under the hood.

This yacht looks like a traditional, cold-molded Down East dayboat, but actually, it has everything, from Hamilton HJX Series water-jet drives to a planned Sea Machines autonomous command-and-control system . Top speed: 40-plus knots.

Quick Specifications

Galeon Yachts 375 GTO

Even the remnants of Hurricane Ian, couldn’t dissuade the Galeon Yacht 375 GTO from its cruising mission. The small yacht’s wave-splitting hull form is paired to torque-filled 600 hp Mercury Verado outboards , giving this fun-in-the-sun boat a 47-knot top hop.

The 375 GTO is a speedster, to be sure, but it’s also so much more. Just about every aspect of the main deck seating is transformable and multifunction, from the aft seating to the alfresco dining abaft the helm, and beyond. It also has a family-size and eminently cruise-worthy belowdecks space for four guests, all while providing a foredeck entertaining lounge too.

The Galeon Yachts 375 GTO ticks all the boxes for an easy-to-handle and sporty cruiser.

Aquila 42 Yacht Power Catamaran

Following the success of its 44-, 54- and 70-foot power catamaran models, Aquila has launched the stable-as-a-table, owner-operator-ready Aquila 42 Yacht Power Catamaran .

The Aquila 42 is the entry point into the builder’s yacht line and is noteworthy for its ability to accommodate anywhere from a two- to four-stateroom layout, depending on the owner’s cruising requirements. There are alfresco spaces to manage the sunset cruise with friends and family, including a foredeck lounge area that can be accessed via centerline steps from the flybridge. The Aquila 42 is available with several Volvo Penta diesel-engine options .

Azimut Verve 42

Want to cruise from Florida to Bimini in about an hour? The Azimut Yachts Verve 42 can do that thanks, in part, to triple 450 hp Mercury Racing outboards and a hull designed to dice-and-slice a seaway. Top hop: 45 knots. The Verve 42 also has style for miles with a fine entry, raked hardtop, and a razorlike sheerline accented by sweeping hull glass from bow to stern. It’s striking.

With accommodation for a family of four, the Verve 42 is also solid under the hull tokeep everyone safe on those passages. The Verve 42’s hull is built of fiberglass and uses vinylester resins for blister protection. The yacht’s deck and hardtop are comprised of carbon fiber for strength without added weight. This all means that the Azimut Verve 42 is built to CE Classification Type A , making it suitable for sea voyages where winds can exceed 45 mph and seas to 13 feet.

Hinckley Yachts 35

The Hinckley Yachts 35 takes everything that yachtsmen like about this pedigreed-brand’s classic profile and infuses today’s modern outboard power to create 40 knots of sheer fun wrapped in sheer luxury.

This 35-foot Hinckley is built on a Michael-Peters-penned hull form with a fine entry, wider-than-average chines and a moderate deadrise. While the boat is built to sprint when desired, it’s also a relatively economical cruiser. For instance, a comfortable 24-knot cruise the Hinckley Yachts 35 has a 276-nautical-mile range.

It also has a tech-build thanks to vacuum-infused carbon-fiber composites and epoxy resin. An integrated interior structure is infused with the hull adding rigidity. The hull is then post-cured in an 80-foot oven, further strengthening the structure.

Beneteau Gran Turismo 45

The Beneteau Gran Turismo is the flagship of the builder’s four-model GT series, which also includes 32-, 36- and 41-foot models.

The Gran Turismo 45 ’s cruise-centric layout includes two staterooms and two heads belowdecks, as well as a galley down. There is also a dinette for meals and a settee for rainy-day lounging. Entertaining guests and enjoying the sun is the primary mission of the main deck.

Solaris Power 48 Open

The Solaris Power 48 Open was the first powerboat from this longtime builder known for its sailing yachts, ranging from 40 to 110 feet length overall. The Solaris Power 48 Open is notable for its wave-slicing plumb-bow design, high freeboard forward and 32-knot-plus speed. Power is twin 480 hp Volvo Penta IPS650 diesels.

The high freeboard keeps the deck dry and help creates sizable volume belowdecks with an average 6-foot-6-inch headroom. This enables real estate for either one or two staterooms. With the single-stateroom setup, there is a forepeak master stateroom while an L-shaped settee converts to sleeping accommodations for family or occasional guests. Interior wood options are oak or walnut.

Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS

Outboard-power cruising aficionados will appreciate the triple-engine options for the Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS . The 42 GLS we got aboard had the triple 400 hp Mercury Verados , which produced a top hop of 45 knots, but triple 450 hp Verados are available. Triple 350 hp Mercury Verados are the standard engine option. No matter the power arrangement, this express cruiser can easily be used for wakeboarding and tube towing. The 42 GLS is designed to handle the rough stuff too, with a fine entry and 21-degree transom deadrise.

For cruising enthusiasts, the 42 GLS has a master stateroom with an athwartships and a nearly queen-size berth, and the lower salon’s U-shaped dinette converts to a queen-size berth for the kids.

Back Cove 34O

Combining modern outboard power with classic Downeast styling, the Back Cove 34O touts award-winning standards with cruising in mind. The 34O is equipped with twin 300 hp Yamaha outboards, engines that allow the Newport International Boat Show’s 2018 Best Powerboat Under 35 Feet winner to travel up to 214 nautical miles at 24 knots on a 250-gallon fuel tank.

Belowdecks, the 34O has an island double berth and a split-head arrangement with the toilet to port and a separate shower stall to starboard. On the main deck, a U-shape dinette to port accommodates four or more guests on the Back Cove Yachts vessel. The 34O’s galley is equipped with a Cuisinart microwave, a two-burner Kenyon electric cooktop and a Vitrifrigo fridge and freezer.

Picnic Boat 40

Hinckley Yachts unveiled its first Picnic Boat more than two decades ago. Now, after two previous, sub-40-foot models, the Maine-based boatbuilder has developed its largest and most advanced model to date: the Picnic Boat 40.

Twin 480 hp Cummins diesel engines paired to twin Hamilton 322 jet drives propel the yacht to a 30-knot cruising speed and 34 knots on the pins. With optional twin 550 hp Cummins diesels, cruise and top-end speeds jump to 35 and 38 knots, respectively.

There is an L-shaped settee with a table and a wet bar on the main deck to port. The helm station is forward and to starboard with a benchseat for two. There is also a companion seat across from the helm. Belowdecks, there is 6-foot-2-inch headroom, and the dinette table drops to form a California-king berth for overnights and weekending.

Aquila Power Catamarans started its line with 44- and 48-footers, and now the builder’s Aquila 36 takes the line into the midsize market.

The 36 features a single, main-living area from bow to stern, helped in part by the vessel’s 14-foot, 7-inch beam. The boat can comfortably seat up to 20 guests for fun on the salt. Several Mercury Verado engine options are available for the Aquila 36, including twin 250-, 300- and 350-hp four-strokes. With the 350s, the Aquila has a top-end speed of 37 knots.

Other notable features include a fiberglass hardtop, a dinette, a cooktop, a fridge, a sink and a smokeless grill. Belowdecks, there are two staterooms with nearly queen-size berths, en suite heads and 6-foot-6-inch headroom in each.

Boston Whaler 350 Realm

From fishing and entertaining guests to diving and overnight cruising, Boston Whaler ‘s 350 Realm is a multitasker. And it’s fast, too. It’s powered with either triple 300 hp or triple 350 hp Mercury Verados. The 350 Realm can reach a top speed of 46 knots.

At the helm, two Raymarine displays provide vital navigation data. The captain can take in the displays’ view from a doublewide helm seat. There’s a flip-down platform for standing when needed and a footrest when desired.

There is a V-shaped berth that converts into a double berth with a filler cushion. The separated head has a VacuFlush MSD and a hot-and-cold shower. Owners also have the option to add a microwave and a flat-screen TV.

The MJM 35z can reach a top speed of 44 knots and a cruising speed of 33 knots on its optional 350 hp Mercury Verado outboards; twin 300 hp outboards are standard on this MJM Yachts vessel. Additionally, the 35z can travel up to 304 nautical miles on its 250-gallon fuel tank.

The 35z has a flush-deck layout and to port is space for an electric grill, a baitwell, a sink, an ice maker and a fridge. There are two Stidd helm seats—one for the helmsman and the other for a copilot—that rotate to face the rest of the seating aft. In the cabin is V-shaped seating forward that can be converted to a berth.

Owners also have the option of adding a Seakeeper 3 gyrostabilizer and a full-length Bimini top to shade the cockpit.

Greenline 39

Greenline Yachts ‘ vessels are aptly named for their environmentally friendly means of moving about; the Greenline 39 is no different. The Slovenian yacht manufacturer produces two types of this model: hybrid and solar.

If owners opt for the latter, the 39’s four solar panels atop the salon power all of the vessel’s systems for three hours. With the power of the sun, the 39 can achieve a max speed of 6.5 knots and a cruising speed of 4 knots. The hybrid type uses those same panels to help power a 220 hp Volvo Penta D3 with a Mahle electric-drive system. Owners have the option of replacing the standard engine with a 370 hp Yanmar 8LV diesel.

Belowdecks, scissor berths provide accommodations for long weekends.

• More: Center Consoles , Express and Flybridge Cruisers , Tenders , Yachts
• More Yachts

Alia Yachts to Debut SAN Superyacht in Monaco

Discover the Top Power Catamarans for 2024

Coming Next Year: Tiara Yachts 56 LS

Top Nine Fishing Tenders For 2024

Top Bar Harbor Maine Sights For Visiting Cruisers

Always In Style: Ocean Alexander 85E For Sale

Spend Thanksgiving on a Yacht

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Email Newsletters
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

• Types of Sailboats
• Parts of a Sailboat
• Cruising Boats
• Small Sailboats
• Design Basics
• Sailboats under 30'
• Sailboats 30'-35
• Sailboats 35'-40'
• Sailboats 40'-45'
• Sailboats 45'-50'
• Sailboats 50'-55'
• Sailboats over 55'
• Masts & Spars
• Knots, Bends & Hitches
• The 12v Energy Equation
• Electronics & Instrumentation
• Build Your Own Boat
• Buying a Used Boat
• Choosing Accessories
• Living on a Boat
• Cruising Offshore
• Sailing in the Caribbean
• Anchoring Skills
• Sailing Authors & Their Writings
• Mary's Journal
• Nautical Terms
• Cruising Sailboats for Sale
• List your Boat for Sale Here!
• Used Sailing Equipment for Sale
• Sell Your Unwanted Gear
• Sailing eBooks: Download them here!
• Your Sailboats
• Your Sailing Stories
• Your Fishing Stories
• Advertising
• What's New?
• Chartering a Sailboat
• Cruising Yachts 35' to 40'

Popular Cruising Yachts from 35 to 40 Feet Long Overall Their Physical Properties & Key Performance Indicators

Welcome to this ever-growing gallery of some of the most popular cruising yachts between 35 and 40 feet (10.7m to 12.2m) long overall.

Cruising Yachts featured on this page...

Medium sized cruising yachts like these are often the sailboat of choice for short-handed crews, and if properly equipped and maintained, will take long offshore voyages in their stride.

Sailboats at the top of this size range, those above 12m long overall, will find that they are charged considerably more in marinas than those that fall just under 12m LOA. Something worth bearing in mind perhaps?

Amel Kirk 36

Grand Soleil 37

Nicholson 35

Island Packet 37

Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 361

Bavaria 37 Cruiser

Wauquiez Centurion 40

Contest 38S

Westerly Oceanranger 38

Jeanneau Sun Fast 39

Islander 37 MS

Beneteau First 35s5

Amel Sharki

Dehler 38 (Van de Stadt)

Dehler 39 CWS

Finnsailor 35

Bolero 35.5

Dehler 37 CWS

Hunter 36 Legend

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 35

Beneteau First 375

Challenger 35

Starlight 35

Starlight 39

Cabo Rico 38

Westerly Typhoon 37

Southerly 110

Sweden Yachts 390

Pearson 365

Jeanneau 'Sun Fast' 37

Hallberg-Rassy 37

Gulfstar 36

Beneteau Oceanis 381

Catalina 36

Undeniably, with her gentle sheer, clipper bow and 'moustache' nameplate, the Mariner 40 ketch is a very attractive cruising yacht. Her long keel and very heavy displacement suggest she'll be a steady, comfortable performer in a seaway but passage times will suffer as a result.

Cavalier 39

Many thanks to the owner of 'Kiwa' for this pic of his Cavalier 39 cruising yacht.

Vancouver 36

Bayfield 40

Island Packet Estero 36

Beneteau 393

Tashiba 40 (aka Baba 40 and Panda 40)

Oyster Heritage 37

Many thanks to Andy Thomson for this pic of  'Spellbinder',  his Oyster Heritage 37 cruising yacht  ...

Southerly 115 Mk1

Colvic Countess 37

Shearwater 39

Island Packet 38

Island Packet 380

Pearson 39-2

Many thanks to Crystal and Rob Bleecher for this pic of their Pearson 39-2 cruising yacht.

Many thanks to Barry Bateman for this great pic of 'New World' , his Valiant 40 cruising yacht. 

Westerly Conway 36

'Weohgi' , a ketch-rigged Westerly Conway 36 cruising yacht, winter-sailing off the south coast of England. Many thanks to owner Geoffrey Mills for the pic.

Reefed down, 'Transcendence' - a Cascade 36 sloop - is making good progress into a short chop. Many thanks to owner Michael McLaughlin for the pic.

Tradewind 35

Thank you, Han van der Stap, for submitting this pic of your stunning yacht 'SysterSol' . As you say, she is "a beautiful Swedish boat, sure and fast, for long distance cruising."

Allied Princess 36

Many thanks to David Humphreys for submitting this great pic of  'Gabriel', his ketch-rigged Allied Princess 36 Mk2. The Mk2 version was introduced in 1980, unlike its predecessor, sporting a bowsprit. Both versions were available as either ketch or cutter rigs.

David tells us that 'Gabriel'  (hull #130) has been well maintained and up-graded since her commissioning in 1980. She's based in Annapolis MD and spends her days sailing to local destinations with a few over-nighters.

Pacific Seacraft 37

Next ~ Cruising Yachts 40-45ft LOA >>>>

Recent Articles

The CSY 44 Mid-Cockpit Sailboat

Sep 15, 24 08:18 AM

Hallberg-Rassy 41 Specs & Key Performance Indicators

Sep 14, 24 03:41 AM

Amel Kirk 36 Sailboat Specs & Key Performance Indicators

Sep 07, 24 03:38 PM

Here's where to:

• Find  Used Sailboats for Sale...
• Find Used Sailing Gear for Sale...
• List your Sailboat for Sale...
• List your Used Sailing Gear...

Our eBooks...

A few of our Most Popular Pages...

Just a headsail and a mainsail - simple and efficient. 

Read more...

A smaller headsail and a staysail makes sail handling easier.

A second mast with a mizzen sail, for greater versatility.

Copyright © 2024  Dick McClary  Sailboat-Cruising.com

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 – the spacious family cruiser

• Graham Snook
• January 1, 2021

The 40ft yacht market is fierce, so has the Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 got what it takes to make an impact on the family cruiser market? Graham Snook heads to the Solent to find out

The optional bowsprit creates space to set a furling asymmetric. A tack outhaul would be helpful. Credit: Graham Snook

Product Overview

Beneteau oceanis 40.1.

• Voluminous interior
• Handling under sail
• Modern design
• High freeboard
• Stern gland access
• No galley bracing

Manufacturer:

Price as reviewed:.

The Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 – a spacious family cruiser

A 40ft family cruiser is the must-have in any production boat builder’s arsenal.

With a hull length of 11.99m they limbo neatly under the 12m pricing band found in many Mediterranean marinas – making them cheaper to moor.

For most, it’s a Goldilocks size of yacht, neither too big nor too small, just right for two adults and a few children.

While the hull length is limited, the beam is not.

Liferaft stowage is sensibly hidden in the fixed cockpit table, which also provides good bracing for crew. Credit: Graham Snook

If you’d parachuted onto Beneteau’s new mid-range cruiser , you could be fooled into thinking she’s 3ft longer than she physically is – not just the numbers on the hull.

The Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 replaces the Oceanis 41.1 which was shorter by 1cm of hull length.

Space is a great thing for family cruisers and charter, and the two areas where the 40.1 shows off her length-defying ability are the social areas of the boat: the cockpit and the saloon.

The cockpit is long and wide, and the helm has the high pushpit to prevent them from falling off the transom – it would be hard to stand further aft and remain on board without it.

What this does, though, is give the helm a commanding feel, with 39ft of yacht stretching  ahead of you.

A seat folds down from the pushpit for the helm right at the stern. Credit: Graham Snook

Down below, Beneteau has taken the beam to whopping 4.18m (13ft 9in); that’s 30cm (1ft) more than the 2010 incarnation, the Oceanis 40, and while the hull is 2cm narrower than previous 41.1 model, the interior is wider.

What sort of witchcraft is Beneteau using?

Big things are rarely known for their agility or speed, but what’s good about all this space is that  it hasn’t come at the expense of her performance or handling.

On the water, her twin rudders had grip in abundance.

Even when well-heeled she stayed in control and responsive to the helm; just what you want from a coastal cruiser.

A lift-up foot support provides bracing when heeled. Credit: Graham Snook

This boat had the standard in-mast furling mainsail and optional genoa and tracks; a self-tacking jib is standard.

With full sails and 20 knots over the deck she was impeccably well behaved, although if the wind was any stronger, we would have been reefing.

Twin stainless-steel wheels are standard; the helm was well balanced, quite light and felt good though the lighter composite wheels would just have improved the experience.

On the wind, she didn’t disgrace herself, considering her mainsail was batten-free with the standard Dacron in-mast furling sails.

If she’d been the sportier First Line edition with a taller rig, deeper keel, and performance slab-reefed sails she could have shone.

Exploring the helm of the Beneteau Oceanis 40.1

The high freeboard and full-length chine of the Marc Lombard designed hull keep her decks dry.

When she was pushed, without waves and water marching along the deck, it didn’t feel worrying or precarious.

Her beam has given her broad underwater forward sections, and these did get a few slaps from the wake of passing shipping.

Keep fingers away from the line on the coaming top when tacking. Credit: Graham Snook

The steering wheels are only 59 cm (1ft 11in) from the transom, there is a narrow flip-up seat attached to the pushpit, but I felt it was comfier to stand, or sit on the side deck.

Although the wheels are so far aft, with a high pushpit you feel neither penned in nor vulnerable, and only when sitting far outboard did the split backstay makes its presence felt.

There are good lift-up foot blocks with a stainless-steel support.

There is a deflector under the support, as soon as you lift the sole high enough the support hangs down and lowering it will either send the bar one way or another depending on the angle of heel; to either support or stow the footrest.

Under the foot blocks are the neatly hidden filler caps for fuel and water.

Between the wheels is a large lazarette locker (and gas locker) which, along with two sole-depth cockpit lockers, give a reasonable amount of deck stowage.

Going forward the deck narrows to 25cm (10in) while passing the sprayhood – a small price to pay given the feeling of space inside.

At the bow is the optional bowsprit that protrudes well forward.

Getting to the end fitting is a precarious 70cm (2ft 4in) stretch from the furling genoa, which is already 40cm (1ft 4in) forward of the pulpit.

The forestay is attached to the stem and there’s a single bow roller to port that feeds directly to the windlass.

There’s a decent drop for the chain into the good-sized anchor locker, a handy rail by the lid shows it’s intended for fender stowage too.

The standard self-tacking jib sheet is led to one of the two companionway winches.

The helm is as far aft as it’s possible to be, but this does give you a commanding view forward of the whole boat. Credit: Graham Snook

With the optional up-wind pack, we had a bigger furling genoa, tracks, additional clutches, and two Harken 46ST winches located forward of the helm, which are a generous size and work well.

For the crew, they are a little far back, but for the helm, they are easily within reach.

The mainsheet goes to the Harken 40ST companionway winch from a bridle forward of the sprayhood.

The cockpit is well laid out although the genoa sheets do run along the coaming top, so best keep this a finger-free area, especially for the younger members of the crew.

The optional large cockpit table has built-in stowage for a liferaft (accessible from aft).

The table is wide and has excellent handrails on either side.

One feature I missed were rope bins to keep the lines from the aft winches. At 1.4m (4ft 7in) her freeboard is very high.

This gives more room inside and over 1.86m (6ft 1in) headroom throughout.

The downside is that it’s around a 90cm (3ft) step up from a pontoon to the toe rail, so you may need to rely on a fender step.

The fold-down transom makes boarding a doddle from astern though.

What lies beneath

Below, you’re met by a huge saloon and C-shaped galley.

Not only is the beam carried aft, it also achieves its maximum further forward than normal.

The result is a living space that is 3.75m (12ft 4in) across.

This sets the 40.1 apart from her rivals.

An impressive beam gives the Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 a truly vast saloon. More hatches and handholds would be nice, though the solid galley fiddles make good grab holds. Credit: Graham Snook

As wide as she is, Beneteau hasn’t been overly generous with the natural light.

She is light, and for warmer climes the fewer windows the better, but on a wintery day in the Solent I’d hoped for more.

The low coachroof makes narrow windows, the three overhead hatches are good for ventilation but small – where usually you’d expect a 60cm hatch there’s a 44cm – and those large hull windows on the outside are only half-length inside.

That said, the frugality with which LED lights consume power means that the living space feels more welcoming and stylish when the interior is illuminated.

The forward cabin is generous, though the grooves for different layouts in the moulded headlining are not covered over. Credit: Graham Snook

Moving forward, there are good, deep fiddles around the galley, but no handholds to port – except for the overhead handrail that would be out of reach to shorter crew and children.

The saloon table is fixed and large enough to seat the number of crew most will sail with.

If you were to increase the berth count to the maximum of 10 (of which more in a moment), it would be tight though.

There’s stowage beneath the C-shaped saloon seating too, and the bunk boards on hinges mean they don’t need to be moved to access kit.

Double sink, front and top opening fridge. A bum strap at the stove would provide some necessary bracing. Credit: Graham Snook

There is a large, deep and most importantly easy-to-access locker under the aft seat, at the chart table, at almost 1m (3ft 2in) long and 30cm (1ft) deep it provides excellent stowage.

There’s stowage behind the seatbacks, and you can also see how creative Beneteau has been with the construction and assembly of the seat carcasses.

These slot and screw together to form a rigid structure on the hull’s tray moulding which reaches up to the chine.

To elevate the seating and make the most of the width above the chine, the sole is raised, giving a whopping 40cm (1ft 4in) deep bilge.

Put some watertight plastic boxes in there and you could hide the sort of tools and spares that other boat owners will be puzzling where to stow such items, and you don’t lose the rest of the stowage space to rarely used items either.

The standard finish is walnut Alpi.

A solidly-built and good-sized aft facing chart table, but the support reduces stowage for charts and books. Credit: Graham Snook

This yacht had the stylish white oak Alpi which helped keep the interior light.

The use of light furniture and this wood finish could so easily have become a lesson in bland – with acres of beige blending into one another, but Beneteau has used contrasting dark inlay strips and painted corner posts and door frames to visually break it up.

The chart table follows this path and its painted surround forms nice high fiddles.

The table itself is 83cm (1ft 9in) wide (60cm x 83cm, 1ft 9in x 2ft 9in), although the inside is narrowed by the support for the lid’s gas strut and the internal structure to 60cm (1ft 9in) wide.

It was good to see an easy-to-read digital display for batteries and tankage.

Access behind the switch panel is simple, and the wiring neat and the fuses are well labelled.

This was the three-cabin, one-head version.

A two-cabin, single head layout is standard.

You also have the option of one or two double cabins aft, while forward is the choice of a double cabin, a double with an en suite heads, or two cabins (one with bunk beds, the other with an offset double and an en suite).

Galley options for the Beneteau Oceanis 40.1

This version had the forward cabin without the heads, the area aft of the berth was almost too big, it seems a waste not to add a heads compartment, but not everyone wants to sleep in a cabin adjoined to a toilet.

If that aligns with your thinking, consider adding the vanity unit with a sink and more stowage.

Beneteau has made the forward cabin bright and stylish, with sliding blinds for the hull windows, fabric-covered panels at the head of the berth and deep full-length shelves along the hull sides, but lying on the owner’s berth it was disappointing to see the plastic fittings which secure the shelf and the gaps around the finish of the forward bulkhead.

There is a GRP pelmet moulded in the headlining to hide this finish, but this only covers the area when you’re standing.

Likewise, the channels for the different layouts remain visible in the headlining.

The performance package would make this boat sparkle, but even as standard she was enjoyable and engaging to sail. Credit: Graham Snook

Beneteau is not unique in leaving these visible, but a fabric panel over them would have been more in keeping.

Under the large 5ft 6in-wide forward berth was a wide slatted base.

This was fixed over the forward water tank, so there was no stowage; unless you accessed it through the slats.

Outboard of the berth are shelves; while these might lack fiddles, they do have USB charging points.

The galley is large, C-shaped and set forward, and had nice details like soft closures on the drawers.

The galley stops short of the central compression post inboard; this is to allow access into the forward cabin if you opt for the four-cabin layout.

If you don’t select this layout the area is left open and unused.

While it adds to the great feeling of airiness and gives bracing to use the sink while sailing, if Beneteau was to add a unit in this space and extend it aft, past the existing galley locker, it would increase the galley’s already good stowage and give the galley what it lacks the most: bracing when on a starboard tack.

If you have no ambitions to cook at sea and let’s face it, many who coastal cruise don’t, then a lack of solid bracing isn’t an issue.

The stove area did have a crash bar, to which a bum strap could be attached.

The galley has a good amount of stowage, or excellent if you include some of the saloon stowage too.

Below-deck details

There’s a twin sink and outboard is the top opening bin.

Lift the lid in the work surface and you can shuffle peelings into the deep bin with ease.

The joys don’t end there: because the bin isn’t under the sink there’s space in abundance there.

Aft, there’s one of the biggest fridges I’ve seen in a 40 ft yacht.

It’s 190L, well arranged and, when you select either of the trim level packs, a front opening is added.

Unless you have the arms of a gibbon, you’ll need the door to get any contents from the bottom – it’s 73cm (2ft 5in) deep.

The heads compartment is good, and it’s nice to see a separate shower compartment that can be used without getting the floor by the toilet and door wet.

The solid baffle in front of the engine was a clever idea to prevent noise dissipating under the sole boards. Credit: Graham Snook

The aft cabins mirror each other. If you opt for the layout with only one aft cabin, the starboard cabin remains the same.

The one to port becomes a tech space accessible from the cockpit or saloon.

The only differences are in the port cabin where there are the circuit breakers for the shore power system, and the starboard aft cabin can access the heads directly.

Both berths are 1.36m x 2.04m (4ft 6in x 6ft 8in) with good space above them.

The cabins are separated by individual stowage space for each cabin and forward of this (aft of the engine) is the calorifier.

There is an access panel for the stern gland/propeller shaft but it’s not the easiest to access.

There’s tankage under both berths (water to starboard, and fuel to port) and access to either side on the engine.

The engine access is a bit tight as companionway steps only lift to horizontal, they’re well supported by gas struts, and once you’re under it you can access all you need to.

The engine compartment is well soundproofed – a removable panel has been added to the front end to stop the sound dissipating under the floor.

Just forward of the engine, under the floor, is the water pump and in front of that is the bank of four 100Ah house batteries.

The test verdict

There are some areas of the Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 where she shone with clever ideas and attention to detail.

There were, however, other areas that frustratingly let her down.

With a little bit of fine-tuning she could be a cracking yacht, but when you’re paying a few hundred thousand pounds for a yacht, should the last thing you see at night be the plastic fittings under the shelves or structural adhesive glinting from the gaps overhead?

It’s a shame when so much thought has gone into areas like the saloon and galley to have it undermined by other parts of the boat.

I hope that the Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 becomes a better yacht.

2020 was a strange year, and with many boat shows having been cancelled, production facilities slowed or closed throughout the industry, it can’t have been easy.

Hopefully, some of the finish wasn’t representative of a yacht that will arrive in six months.

This was only hull nine and this might have been a wholly different report had it not been an early boat, built during a global pandemic.

Would she suit you and your crew?

As family cruisers go, the Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 has a lot to offer.

A comfortable and good-sized cockpit, a vast and spacious saloon, and a large practical galley for use in port.

She ticks the good-to-sail box too, she has a nice reassuring feel on the water and is impeccably behaved; all that we’ve come to expect from Beneteau.

She may not appeal to the older traditionalist, and indeed with her high freeboard, it’s quite a distance to the pontoon.

You’ll win no friends if you’re the first boat in a raft alongside a pontoon, but in areas like the Med, the height from the deck to the water is not an issue.

She’s vying for a piece of the hotly contested sub 12m pie.

The Hanse 418 and Bavaria C42 are her closest rivals, both have a 40ft hull and a beam over 4.15m (13ft 7in).

All three of these boats have their strengths and weaknesses.

The Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 has the most spacious layout of the three boats and if that’s what you want from your family cruiser, no other yacht in her class can compete.

For all the latest from the sailing world, follow our social media channels Facebook, Twitter and Instagram .

Have you thought about taking out a subscription to Yachting Monthly magazine?

Subscriptions are available in both print and digital editions through our official online shop Magazines Direct and all postage and delivery costs are included.

• Yachting Monthly is packed with all the information you need to help you get the most from your time on the water.
• Take your seamanship to the next level with tips, advice and skills from our expert skippers and sailors
• Impartial in-depth reviews of the latest yachts and equipment will ensure you buy the best whatever your budget
• If you are looking to cruise away with friends Yachting Monthly will give you plenty of ideas of where to sail and anchor

Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Fast and furious Neo 400 is claimed to be the ‘fastest cruising 40-footer in the world’

• Toby Hodges
• February 20, 2015

Is the boast plausible? Toby Hodges takes a close look at this muscular racer-cruiser

A sign that brags ‘the fastest cruising 40-footer in the world’ is a sure-fire way to attract attention. My first impressions of the Neo 400 stern-to at the Genoa Boat Show made me question that statement, but the more I discovered about this quirky boat, the more the boast seemed plausible.

She’s a little like the tweaked road cars in the Fast and Furious film series – ie not an out-an-out racing design, but a muscular racer-cruiser with accommodation.

The Neo is built entirely in carbon (optionally pre-preg), so weighs a butterfly-light 4.8 tonnes, with exactly half of that in her torpedo-shaped keel. And like the nitro-fuelled Japanese cars in the blockbuster films, she is capable of exhilarating speeds – reportedly up to 24 knots downwind.

The prototype has clocked 10,000 miles since launching in February. Once Paolo Semeraro, the man behind her conception, had finished showing me round the boat, she departed for the Rolex Middle Sea Race.

America’s Cup designer Giovanni Ceccarelli drew the Neo for racing under ORCi and IRC ratings. Her hull is optimised for max waterline length at 20° heel and features a slightly reverse stem. The result is, says Semeraro: “She sails upwind like an Xp44 and downwind like a Class 40.”

Unusual options include a very deep keel and high aspect rudder, which can retract for accessing shallower waters. Both aft cabins include three single berths that can be canted to the optimum windward angle to suit racing crews. And forward of the mast a loft option is offered, which is left open to create a large saloon.

Neo 400 interior

Another notable feature is the double compression post in the centre of the interior, which looks like carbon scaffolding, but serves to absorb mast base and shroud base loads. Construction throughout looks rigid, including solid laminate ringframes, a Weldox steel keel fin and a lead bulb.

The Neo is built at Banks Sails in Bari, Italy. It produces two carbon sails per day on average so boasts plenty of laminating experience. It is no surprise then that a large sailplan has been developed for the boat to include a square-top main and a generous foretriangle for asymmetric sails flown off a fixed sprit.

A planned Neo 550 looks sleeker and more refined. With greater attention given to the accommodation and weighing just over ten tonnes, she could be one to watch. The 400 viewed was a working prototype, which was obvious from the standard of finish. And I suspect, however fast or furiously she sails, the price of construction may ensure she remains a niche boat.

Price ex VAT €355,000 (£282,000). www.neoyachts.com

LOA 12.15m/39ft 10in

LWL 11.50m/37ft 9in

Beam 3.99m/13ft 1in

Draught 2.60m-1.60m/ 8ft 6in-5ft 3in

Displacement 4,600kg/10,141lb

This is an extract from a feature in the November 2014 issue of Yachting World

• AROUND THE SAILING WORLD
• BOAT OF THE YEAR
• Email Newsletters
• America’s Cup
• St. Petersburg
• Caribbean Championship
• Boating Safety
• Ultimate Boating Giveaway

2024 Boat of the Year Best Trimaran: Dragonfly 40 Ultimate

• By Dave Reed
• December 20, 2023

“Classy.” That was the first word that came to mind for Boat of the Year judge Mike Ingham when he stepped aboard the formidable 40-foot trimaran from Dragonfly, an unexpected and welcome late entry to the competition in Annapolis. “It almost feels as if the boat is intentionally understated but overdelivered because once you start looking closer at the details and craftsmanship, it just keeps getting more impressive.”

Builder and company owner Jens Quorning, whose family has been building trimarans in southern Denmark since 1967, says the Dragonfly 40 is the biggest boat they now build and a worthy holder of the flagship title. “Building a boat of this scale is complicated,” he says of the folding trimaran. “It takes three years to develop a new design, and this is for owners looking for a bigger boat, with better performance, capable of more long-distance sailing.”

The result is a powerful trimaran aimed at experienced owners who appreciate the sheer pleasure of racing and cruising on three hulls. This is not your average production multihull. It is a powerful and luxurious sailing machine capable of knocking off fast miles in comfort. Slip down below and you’re immediately immersed in a master class of woodwork and joinery. There are berths for four, including a giant master under the cockpit, plenty of standing headroom, and a comfortable salon and galley arrangement that’s monohull-cozy. “We do not offer a big house on the water,” Quorning tells the judges. “But if you really want a fine and elegant yacht with double-digit sailing, this is what we do.”

For our tests, Dragonfly presented its Ultimate edition, the midrange version. An upscaled Performance model is an all-carbon version with a taller mast. And in the lightest wind of the week, sub-10 knots, the trimaran teased the judges with its potential. Still, in the light stuff, the boat delivered a winning experience.

“It was a dream to sail upwind and downwind, almost effortlessly,” Ingham says. “With the gennaker up, at about 100 degrees true, we were going faster than the wind, and with winch pods on each side of the steering wheel, everything was as ergonomic as you could possibly imagine. The electric winches made it a cinch to furl and unfurl the headsails through the tacks and jibes, and the sails trimmed in perfectly every time.”

The feather-light feel of the helm, Ingham adds, was as smooth as a balanced dinghy. “With tiny movements on the wheel, the boat would immediately respond, but I could also walk away from the helm for a few minutes and the boat would stay right on track. Crazy—I think it steered itself better than I did.”

That’s the trait of a good trimaran, Greg Stewart says. The Dragonfly 40 has a lot of buoyancy in the bows, and while the center hull is substantial, the tall trussed rig and square top mainsail provide plenty of power. “The biggest thing that struck me is how easily accessible everything is,” Stewart says. “Clearly, every detail is painstakingly thought out, and I can’t believe how beautifully built the interior is. It’s top-notch, from the glasswork to the paintwork inside and out. Down below, we were all blown away by the finish.”

There’s no denying the boat is expensive at upward of $1 million, but the test boat had quality race sails, a full electric-winch package, and a long list of high-spec extras. At nearly 15,000 pounds light, it’s a substantial boat—not trailerable, but foldable with Dragonfly’s trademark technique that Corning describes as mimicking parallel rules. The floats are 2 feet longer than the center hull, with buoyancy pushed well forward into the reversed bows, and the center hull is narrow at the waterline before sweeping upward to a high and hard chine. This pronounced hull shape allows for the generous amount of headroom, and high bench seats that flank a long centerline table, which can, of course, drop down to create a double-size berth.

Allen noted that the center hull’s wide side decks provide a secure pathway to the bow, rather than across the trampolines. He was also impressed with the ease of sailing the boat and the comfort belowdecks. “When we were doing 9 knots, I went below and there was silence. It’s comfortable and beautiful. It would be a blast to do some long point-to-point racing on it, doublehanded or with like a crew of four, max.”

Stewart agreed, adding that beyond its noteworthy gunkholing attributes, the engine is well aft on the center hull, allowing it to be motored safely into shallow anchorages. The daggerboard is mechanically raised into the trunk, and the rudder kicks up. “I also think it would be great for a distance race or rally type of event,” Stewart says. “Its performance and versatility are what appeal to me, but the build quality is what really sets it apart.”

• More: 2024 Boat of the Year , Sailboats
• More Sailboats

Sporty and Simple is the ClubSwan 28

Nautor Swan Has A New Pocket Rocket

Pogo Launches its Latest Coastal Rocket

A Deeper Dive Into the Storm 18

One and Done on Drifter Day of Cup Challenger Series

Shocks and Drops At Louis Vuitton Cup Start

Rivals Flush American Magic Facemask Rule Enquiry

The Reemergence of Jimmy Spithill

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

Yacht Sourcing > Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Yacht Under 40 Feet: Top Models Compared

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Yacht Under 40 Feet: Top Models Compared

• May 15, 2024

Choosing a yacht under 40 feet can be a complex decision, given the variety of options available in this size range. From catamarans to motor yachts and sailing yachts, there’s a vessel to suit every preference. In this guide, we’ll compare several notable models of yacht under 40 feet from renowned brands like Fountaine Pajot, Dufour, Al-Dhaen, and Yanmar, helping you navigate the choices and find the yacht that best fits your needs.

Fountaine Pajot Isla 40

The Isla 40 is a well-balanced, spacious catamaran ideal for both leisurely cruises and more adventurous voyages. Known for its stability and performance, this model offers ample living space, including three or four cabins, a generous saloon, and an expansive cockpit. It’s perfect for family trips or entertaining guests, providing comfort without sacrificing agility.

• Spacious Living Areas: The Isla 40 features expansive living spaces, including a large saloon and ample deck space.
• Performance: Known for its stability and performance, it provides a smooth and comfortable sailing experience.

Motor Yachts

Fountaine pajot my37.

The MY37 is a power catamaran that blends space, performance, and fuel efficiency. With its twin hulls, it offers unparalleled stability and a smooth ride. The MY37 features a large flybridge, a spacious saloon, and several cabins, making it an excellent choice for those seeking comfort and luxury in a compact motor yacht.

• Size and Comfort: At 37 feet, the MY37 provides the comfort of a much larger yacht with luxurious interiors.
• Performance: Equipped with powerful engines, it offers excellent fuel efficiency and a cruising speed suitable for long distances.
• Accommodation: It features spacious cabins and a large flybridge, enhancing onboard living.

Fountaine Pajot MY4.S

The MY4.S is designed for those who desire a sleek, stylish motor yacht with modern amenities. It offers excellent fuel efficiency and a comfortable layout, including two or three cabins, a well-appointed saloon, and a spacious cockpit. The MY4.S is ideal for coastal cruising and short hops between islands.

• Compact and Efficient: Even though this yacht is on the smaller side, the MY4.S offers efficient performance and luxurious comfort in a more compact design.
• Modern Amenities: It includes modern amenities, stylish interiors, and ample outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment.

Sailing Yachts

The Dufour 360 is a versatile sailing yacht that offers a perfect balance of performance and comfort. It features a spacious cockpit, dual helms, and a modern, airy interior with two or three cabins. This model is ideal for both novice and experienced sailors looking for a reliable and enjoyable sailing experience.

• Versatility: At 35 feet, the Dufour 360 is versatile, suitable for both leisure cruising and competitive sailing.
• Comfort: It features a spacious cockpit, a well-appointed saloon, and multiple cabin configurations.
• Performance: Known for its responsive handling and solid performance in various wind conditio

The Dufour 390 builds on the strengths of the 360, offering more space and luxury. With its innovative design, this yacht provides excellent performance under sail and a comfortable living environment. The 390 includes a larger saloon, multiple cabin configurations, and a well-equipped galley, making it perfect for extended cruising.

• Space and Luxury: At 39 feet, the Dufour 390 offers more space and luxurious accommodations.
• Design: It boasts a sleek design, with a spacious deck and high-quality interior finishes.
• Sailing Experience: Excellent balance and handling, making it a favorite for extended cruising.

The Dufour 37 is a newer addition to the Dufour range, offering advanced design features and improved performance. It combines a spacious interior with a high-performance hull, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable sailing experience. The 37 is designed for those who want a modern yacht with excellent handling and comfort.

• Compact Luxury: The Dufour 37 combines compact size with luxury and performance.
• Innovative Design: Features an innovative layout maximizing space and comfort.
• Ease of Handling: Ideal for those looking for an easy-to-handle yacht without compromising on comfort.

Sports and Fishing Boats

Al-dhaen 365.

The Al-Dhaen 365 is a versatile sports boat designed for both fishing and leisure. It features a robust hull, ample deck space, and powerful engines, making it suitable for high-speed cruising and offshore fishing trips. Its practical layout includes storage for fishing gear and comfortable seating for passengers.

• Performance: At 36.5 feet, the 365 offers robust performance with powerful engines.
• Durability: Built with high-quality materials for durability and longevity.
• Comfort: Spacious indoor area and comfortable seating arrangements make it ideal for both cruising and fishing.

Al-Dhaen 310

The Al-Dhaen 310 is a slightly smaller option that offers similar versatility and performance. It is well-suited for day trips and coastal cruising, with a compact yet efficient layout. The 310 provides a good balance of speed, handling, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for both anglers and leisure boaters.

• Agility: The 310 is a 31-foot motor yacht known for its agility and speed.
• Versatility: Suitable for day trips, fishing, and coastal cruising.
• Design: Sleek design with practical features for a comfortable boating experience.

Compact Motor Yachts

Yanmar vx34a.

The Yanmar VX34A is a compact motor yacht that offers excellent fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride. Its streamlined design and powerful engine make it suitable for both short trips and longer cruises. The VX34A features a well-appointed interior with modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant experience on the water.

Yanmar VX30B

The VX30B is a versatile motor yacht that combines performance and comfort in a compact package. It features a spacious cockpit, a comfortable cabin, and efficient engine options. The VX30B is ideal for those looking for a reliable and enjoyable motor yacht for coastal cruising and day trips.

• Compact Efficiency: The VX30B, at 30 feet, is designed for efficiency and ease of handling.
• Performance: Strong performance with lower operational costs.
• Practical Design: Practical and comfortable for both day trips and short cruises.

Yanmar VX28C

The VX28C is the smallest in the VX series but offers impressive performance and efficiency. Its compact size makes it easy to handle, and it’s perfect for day trips and short cruises. Despite its smaller size, the VX28C provides a comfortable interior and practical layout, making it a great choice for new boaters or those looking for a nimble, efficient vessel.

• Smaller Size, Big Performance: The 28-foot VX28C offers impressive performance in a smaller package.
• Economical: Very economical to run, making it a great choice for frequent use.
• Features: Includes essential features for comfortable and enjoyable outings.

Selecting the right yacht under 40 feet depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a spacious catamaran, a performance-oriented sailing yacht, or a versatile motor yacht, the models from Fountaine Pajot, Dufour, Al-Dhaen, and Yanmar offer a range of options to suit different tastes and budgets.

Contact Yacht Sourcing now! Let our experts guide you to find your perfect yacht under 40 feet. With extensive experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we are here to help you make the best choice for your yachting adventures.

Interested about this topic? Check out other articles from Yacht Sourcing below:

• The Best Time to Visit Bali for an Unforgettable Experience
• Cruising in Elegance: Discovering the Allure of Pink Beach Indonesia with Yacht Sourcing

More Stories

Ultimate Yacht Party with Nala: A Phinisi with Modern Touch

A Small Yacht with Big Features: Explore the Al Dhaen 365 Center Console

Cannes Yachting Festival 2024: Majesty Yachts to Announce New Model

Embrace the Nomad Life on a Motor Yacht

Discover the Best Beaches in Nusa Lembongan with Forever Cruise

Yacht Brands: Exploring Yacht Sourcing’s Exclusive Portfolio

HEADQUARTER

Destinations

Yacht management

BUY A YACHT

CHARTER A YACHT

MANAGE YACHTS

• @[email protected]
• +62 812 3600 1024

Get an exclusive offer for yacht charter and sales, also get the latest yachts update right in your inbox!

13 Best Cruising Sailboats in 2023 & Why They're Better

If you're interested in long-distance exploration at sea, cruising sailboats are a popular choice. The best cruising sailboats are designed to provide comfort, durability, and seaworthiness. From high-performance cruisers with heirloom-quality materials to versatile boats, there's something in this lineup for your skill level and preference. These boats have raised the bar and are set to provide memorable sailing experiences.

The best cruising sailboats are:

Beneteau Oceanis Yacht 54

Jeanneau sun odyssey 490, x-yachts x49, dufour grand large 460, hallberg-rassy 340, tartan 4300, island packet 420, fountaine pajot saona 47, lagoon 450f, bavaria cruiser 46.

One aspect that sets these sailboats apart is their focus on innovation and performance. Let's take a closer look at the 13 best cruising sailboats of 2023 and explore what makes them stand out from the rest.

• These cruising sailboats feature spacious interiors, sturdy hulls, and versatile sail configurations.
• These sailboats are equipped with navigation and communication systems, as well as additional features such as watermakers, generators, and refrigeration systems.
• You can buy these boats for anything between $250,000 and $1.4 million or more.
• A cruiser is a type of sailboat that is generally larger and more comfortable than a racing sailboat.

On this page:

Best cruising sailboats, why these sailboats are better, the most popular cruising sailboat.

In this section, we'll explore the 13 best cruising sailboats of 2023, highlighting their unique features and reasons why they stand out in the market.

Comfortable living space : A cruising sailboat should have a comfortable living space that can accommodate the crew for an extended period of time. This includes a spacious cabin, galley, head, and berths.

Seaworthiness : A cruising sailboat should be able to handle rough seas and adverse weather conditions. It should have a sturdy hull, a well-designed keel, and a balanced rigging system.

Sailing performance : A cruising sailboat should have good sailing performance, which includes speed, stability, and ease of handling. It should be able to sail efficiently in different wind conditions.

Safety features : A cruising sailboat should have safety features such as a reliable navigation system, adequate safety equipment, and a strong anchoring system.

Storage space : A cruising sailboat should have enough storage space for provisions, equipment, and personal belongings. This includes storage lockers, shelves, and compartments.

Energy efficiency : A cruising sailboat should have an energy-efficient system that can provide power for lighting, electronics, and other equipment without relying on shore power.

Durability : A cruising sailboat should be built to last and withstand the wear and tear of extended cruising. This includes using high-quality materials and construction techniques.

The Amel 50 is known for its luxurious and comfortable accommodations, and excellent seaworthiness. Its unique features include a spacious interior with modern design, an innovative cockpit layout, and a powerful yet easy-to-handle sailing system.

The Amel 50 has a unique feature called the "Amel Easy Docking" system, which allows for easy and precise maneuvering in tight spaces. It also has a unique "Amel Silent Block" system, which reduces noise and vibration for a more comfortable ride.

The Oyster 565 is known for its high-quality construction, attention to detail, and luxurious accommodations, as well as its excellent safety features. It provides you with exceptional performance and comfort. Its sleek hull design offers fast, stable sailing, while the spacious, high-quality interior ensures you'll enjoy your time onboard.

The Oyster 565 has a unique feature called the "Oyster Deck Saloon," which provides 360-degree views and adequate natural light in the living space. It also has a unique "Oyster DNA" system, which allows for customization of the boat to suit the owner's preferences.

With its cutting-edge design and performance, the Beneteau Oceanis Yacht 54 lets you sail in style. Its chined hull, twin rudders, and easy handling make it a pleasure to sail, while the spacious, modern interior ensures your comfort on longer voyages.

The Beneteau Oceanis Yacht 54 has a unique feature called the "Dock & Go" system, which allows for easy and precise maneuvering in tight spaces. It also has a unique "Beneteau Smart Sailing" system, which includes a suite of electronic and navigational tools for easy and safe sailing.

The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 490 is known for its hard chine design, and excellent performance and stability. It offers innovative design and functionality. Its walk-around decks, unique cockpit layout, and high-quality interior make it ideal for cruising in comfort.

The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 490 has a unique feature called the "Walk-Around Deck," which allows for easy and safe movement around the boat. It also has a unique "Jeanneau Sun Loft" system, which provides a flexible and customizable living space.

The X-Yachts X49 combines performance, luxury, and comfort. It is known for its high-performance hull design, excellent speed and stability. With its fast hull, advanced sailing systems, and plush interior, the X49 is perfect for both racing and cruising.

The X-Yachts X49 has a unique feature called the "X-Yachts Pure X" system, which includes a suite of performance-enhancing features such as a carbon fiber mast and boom, a racing-inspired sail plan, and a deep lead keel.

The Dufour Grand Large 460 provides you with both comfort and performance. It is known for its innovative design, featuring a self-tacking jib and retractable bow thruster for easy handling. Its spacious interior, ergonomic deck layout, and powerful sailing capabilities make it an excellent choice for long-distance cruising.

The Dufour Grand Large 460 has a unique feature called the "Dufour Easy" system, which includes a suite of tools for easy and safe sailing, such as a self-tacking jib and retractable bow thruster. It also has a unique "Dufour Grand Large Lounge" system, which provides a flexible and customizable living space.

Experience easy handling and modern style with the Hanse 458. It is known for its sleek and modern design, self-tacking jib, large swim platform. Its innovative self-tacking jib, efficient deck layout, and comfortable accommodation make it perfect for family cruising.

The Hanse 458 has a unique feature called the "Hanse Easy Sailing" system, which includes a suite of tools for easy and safe sailing, such as a self-tacking jib and retractable bow thruster. It also has a unique "Hanse Individual Cabin Concept" system, which allows for customization of the living space to suit the owner's preferences.

Known for its quality and craftsmanship, the Hallberg-Rassy 340 offers you comfort and performance in a compact package. It is known for its classic design, long waterline, spacious cockpit, and comfortable and practical accommodations. With its stable hull, efficient sailplan, and well-designed interior, it's ideal for long-range cruising on a smaller scale.

The Hallberg-Rassy 340 has a unique feature called the "Hallberg-Rassy Hardtop," which provides protection from the elements and a spacious cockpit area. It also has a unique "Hallberg-Rassy Quality Concept" system, which includes high-quality construction materials and techniques for durability and longevity.

The Tartan 4300 delivers a perfect balance of performance and comfort. It is known for its high-quality construction, cored hull and deck for added strength and durability. Its epoxy-infused hull provides lightweight strength, while the spacious, beautifully crafted interior ensures a luxurious cruising experience.

The Tartan 4300 has a unique feature called the "Tartan Infusion Molding Process," which allows for precise and consistent construction of the hull and deck for added strength and durability. It also has a unique "Tartan Smart Sailing" system, which includes a suite of electronic and navigational tools for easy and safe sailing.

For those who value comfort and classic design, the Island Packet 420 won't disappoint. It is known for its full keel design, excellent stability and seaworthiness. Its spacious, well-appointed interior and solid construction make it a reliable choice for long voyages.

The Island Packet 420 has a unique feature called the "Island Packet Full Foil Keel," which provides excellent stability and seaworthiness. It also has a unique "Island Packet Anchoring System," which includes a powerful windlass and a custom-designed anchor roller for easy and safe anchoring.

The Fountaine Pajot Saona 47 catamaran offers you the perfect combination of speed, stability, and space. Its sleek hulls and spacious, well-designed living areas make it an excellent choice for cruising with friends and family.

The Fountaine Pajot Saona 47 has a unique feature called the "Fountaine Pajot Helmsman's Position," which provides excellent visibility and control of the boat. It also has a unique "Fountaine Pajot Lounge Deck" system, which provides a spacious and comfortable living space.

Cruise in style on the Lagoon 450F, known for its spacious accommodations and excellent performance under sail. With its distinctive flybridge, comfortable cabins, and efficient sailing system, it's ideal for multi-day getaways.

The Lagoon 450F has a unique feature called the "Lagoon Flybridge," which provides excellent visibility and control of the boat. It also has a unique "Lagoon Spacious Cockpit" system, which provides a comfortable and practical living space.

The Bavaria Cruiser 46 is a versatile and stylish cruiser that offers excellent performance and comfort. It is known for its innovative design, featuring a drop-down transom for easy access to the water. Its user-friendly sailing systems, attractive interior, and practical deck layout make it an ideal choice for a wide range of cruising adventures.

The Bavaria Cruiser 46 has a unique feature called the "Bavaria Hybrid Propulsion System," which allows for energy-efficient sailing and propulsion. It also has a unique "Bavaria Smart Storage" system, which provides enough storage space for gear and supplies. Additionally, the Bavaria Cruiser 46 has a unique "Bavaria Vision" design concept, which includes a spacious and comfortable living space with plenty of natural light and ventilation.

Cruising Gear Essentials

Key features to look for

Versatile hull design.

This allows your sailboat to navigate in various conditions, making it ideal for long-distance cruising.

Efficient sail plan

By having a well-designed sail layout, your boat provides better control, handling, and propulsion.

High-quality construction

Top-quality materials and craftsmanship not only increase the boat's durability, but also enhance its performance.

Comfortable accommodations

When you spend extended periods at sea, you want your sailboat to feel like home, with adequate living space and modern amenities. For an extended sailing trip, you are going to need these 41 sailboat cruising essentials .

How they improve sailing experience

Easier boat handling.

Advanced rigging systems, self-tacking jibs, and other innovative technologies make it easier for you to manage your boat, allowing for more time spent enjoying the sea.

Increased safety

State-of-the-art navigation equipment and weather forecasting systems help you anticipate environmental changes, ensuring a safe voyage.

Sustainable power options

Many sailboats in 2023 come with solar panels, hydro generators, or hybrid propulsion options, reducing your environmental impact and providing more sustainable choices while out at sea.

Integrated connectivity

These boats boast digital systems that allow you to stay connected, monitor your journey, and update your friends and family with your adventures.

Their advantages over others

Better performance.

These boats have been designed with speed, stability, and maneuverability in mind, ensuring top-notch sailing experiences.

Longevity and value

Since they're built with high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship, these boats are certain to last, making them a wise investment.

Customization options

Many of these sailboats offer customizable features, allowing you to tailor the boat to your specific needs and preferences.

Award-winning designs

Several of these boats have received prestigious awards for their innovative features and performance, making them the ultimate cruising sailboats for any passionate sailor.

The Island Packet 420 and Lagoon 450F are the two most popular cruising sailboats known for their comfort, seaworthiness, and versatility.

The Island Packet 420 is a well-regarded cruising sailboat that has a loyal following. It is known for its spacious interior, comfortable accommodations, and good sailing performance.

The Island Packet 420 features a full keel and a cutter rig, which makes it a stable and seaworthy vessel that can handle a variety of weather conditions. The sailboat has a large master cabin, a well-equipped galley, and a comfortable salon area, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy extended periods of time at sea.

The Lagoon 450F is a popular choice for those who want to explore the world by boat. It is known for its spacious interior, stable platform, and good sailing performance.

The Lagoon 450F features a catamaran hull design, which provides a stable and comfortable platform that is ideal for long-distance cruising. The sailboat has a spacious cockpit, multiple sleeping quarters, and a well-equipped galley, making it a popular choice for those who want to travel with family or friends.

The best size cruising sailboat

The best size cruising sailboat is in the range of 40 to 50 feet. Sailboats in this size range are large enough to provide comfortable accommodations for an extended period of time at sea, yet small enough to be easily handled by a small crew or even single-handed.

Sailboats that are too small may lack the necessary amenities and space for long-distance cruising, while sailboats that are too large may be difficult to handle and require a larger crew. Ultimately, the best size cruising sailboat will depend on individual preferences, needs, and intended use, and it's important to consider factors such as comfort, safety, and ease of handling when choosing a cruising sailboat.

The safest cruising sailboat

Hallberg-Rassy 340, and Island Packet 420 are considered among the safest cruising sailboats. These sailboats are known for their sturdy construction, well-designed hulls, and reliable systems. They are also known for their ability to handle a variety of weather conditions and their comfortable accommodations. However, safety can also depend on the boat maintenance, and the skill and experience of the crew.

Leave a comment

You may also like, 41 sailboat cruising essentials for long trips.

In this post I list the items you are unlikely to have if you have never done bluewater or long-term cruising before. There are some essential safety product and …

What's the Best Size of Sailboat for Coastal Cruising?

The Best Boat for Cruising the Mediterranean (3 Types)

The best beginner sailboats for ocean cruising (under $25,000).

• Cabin Cruiser Boats

The Best Cabin Cruiser Boats in 2024

We gave our Boating Team one job: To find the best and most popular cabin cruisers and review them.

Our writers and editorial team conducted interviews, researched specs and drew upon our collective expertise to write unbiased reviews.

A cabin cruiser is a great choice for families and those who want to cruise a little further . For those of us who love being on the water and by the water, this type of vessel is great for entertaining and getting away.

It hits the mark between an RV and a floating luxury hotel room. Although they give you many comforts of larger yachts, they cost much less and are easier to operate.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best cabin cruisers money can buy in 2024.

Notice the different sizes and pay attention to some of the really smart features. Check out some videos in the guide at the bottom.

See our quick top 15, or go further down and read our in-depth reviews.

The Top 5 Cabin Cruiser Boats in 2024

All the cabin cruiser boats we've tested, sea ray slx 400 ob.

Where to buy:

Where to buy sea ray slx 400 ob:.

Sea Ray’s flagship is the SLX 400 OB, a 42-foot platform with outstanding use of space and basic accommodations, that embodies bowrider performance and social options with cabin cruiser comfort.

All told, this boat has seating for up to 22 people and can reach 60 mph.

The SLX 400 is “The Entertainer,” dubbed for the copious space for lounging and hanging out on deck. The starboard side features a fold-down swim terrace extending the boat’s beam by three feet and adding room to the swim platform. A well-appointed wet bar galley with electric grills stands opposite a huge L-shaped settee and table.

If you’re worried that driving this 20,000-pound boat might feel sluggish, think again. The Mercury V-8s get the boat to plane in just under five seconds. The ride is solid and comfortable, with automatic trim tabs and an optional Seakeeper gyro stabilizer. When it comes time to head home, the Mercury joystick steering makes even the trickiest docking scenarios easy as cake.

• Length: 42 feet, 2 inches
• Beam: 12 feet, 1 inch
• Draft: 45 inches max, 32 inches engines up
• Weight: 20,678 pounds dry
• Capacity: Yacht Certified
• Fuel Tank: 375 gallons
• Water Tank: 50 gallons
• Engine: 3x Mercury 300 Verado V-8 outboards with joystick (upgradable to twin 600-hp V-12s )
• Top Speed: 45 knots (51.8 mph)

Things we like:

Things we don't like:, axopar 45 xc.

Where to buy Axopar 45 XC:

The latest boat from Finnish builder Axopar is nothing short of a bigger, better adventure machine. The Axopar 45 XC Cross Cabin features a glorious upper pilothouse and salon, terrace seating, a customizable aft deck, and the option for two cabins and two heads.

A wave-cutting V-hull shape puts the performance of this adventure boat in focus, but the surprising amenities crammed into this platform impress equally as much.

Dive into the in-depth to investigate the details surrounding the Axopar 45 XC, and see why these boats are becoming so popular worldwide.

• Length: 45 feet, 7 inches/13.9 meters
• Beam: 13 feet, 6 inches/4.11 meters
• Draft: 3 feet, 3 inches/1.0 meters
• Weight (without engines): 15,433 pounds/7,000 kg
• Power: 3x Mercury Verado V-8 300 outboards
• Passengers/CE: Certification B:12/C:16

Tiara Yachts

Tiara 43 LE

Where to buy Tiara 43 LE:

The Tiara 43 LE is the first in the company’s new series of performance cabin cruisers. If it looks fast, it’s because it is fast. This boat, powered by twin Mercury V12 outboards churning out a combined 1,200 horsepower, gets up to 30 in about 11 seconds and tops out around 54 miles per hour.

As is expected from a brand like Tiara, this small motor yacht is beautifully appointed and well-equipped. The entire port gunwale opens into a large swim platform, opening up the cockpit space for water-fun or entertaining.

Down below, the boat has a large island berth forward and a separate double stateroom to midship. The pilothouse is enclosed with tempered glass all around and provides awesome visibility and all-season comfort.

All in all, the Tiara 43LE is a cabin cruiser that drives with power and elegance. Unlike other vessels in the class, however, this boat lacks a common area to work and eat, like a large cockpit table or a dinette in the pilothouse. The seating arrangements work great for socializing on the water, but you might want to look at the 48LE for overnights or longer-distance voyaging.

• Length Overall (LOA): 43'6"
• Dry Weight: 23,300 lbs.
• Draft: 3'5"
• Fuel Tank: 400 gal.
• Water Tank: 60 gal.
• Holding Tank: 40 gal.
• Power: 2x Mercury 600 Verado V12 Outboards
• Top Speed: 47.4 knots (54.6 mph)
• Cruising Speed: 37.4 knots (43.1 mph)
• Fuel Burn at Cruise: 61.6 gph
• Range at Cruise: 219 nm (252 mi)
• Grand Banks

Eastbay Yachts

The Grand Banks Eastbay 44

Where to buy The Grand Banks Eastbay 44:

The Eastbay 44 from Grand Banks is the company’s smallest Downeast cabin cruiser. It’s one of the first boats released by the brand under the leadership of CEO Mark Richards.

In a world filled with production boats, here is a moving work of art—a boat built as good as it looks that can carry you and your family to distant shores with comfort and ease.

A joystick control and widely-spaced engines make docking in tight spaces easy. Responsive throttles and the deep-vee hull make shooting even the roughest inlet a non-event.

But the resounding virtue of the Eastbay 44 is its build quality. This brand prides itself on pursuing perfection, and the Eastbay 44 might be the closest thing to it in the small motor yacht or cabin cruiser categories.

The Eastbay draws on the heritage of the Maine lobster boat. She’s beamy for a spacious interior and a stable ride. Her attractive, low-profile design contrasts the angular and tall flybridge offerings of her competition. And her beautifully appointed pilothouse is perfectly sheltered from the elements when you want to be. But, with the push of the button, the windows open, and the space has as much fresh air as you’d ever want.

• Length Overall: 48'10"
• Length On Deck: 43'7"
• Beam: 14'7"
• Displacement: 36,883 lbs.
• Engine: 2x Volvo Penta D6-IPS 650S (480 hp, six-cylinder, pod-drive diesels)
• Top Speed: 33 knots (38 mph)
• Cruise Speed: 28 knots (32 mph) at 27 gallons per hour
• Cruise Range: 492 nautical miles
• Fuel Tank: 581 gal.
• Water Tank: 194 gal.
• Holding Tank: 41 gal.

Jeanneau US

Jeanneau Worldwide

Jeanneau Merry Fisher 1295

Where to Book:

Where to book jeanneau merry fisher 1295:.

All new for 2023, Jeanneau has introduced the Merry Fisher 1295 Fly, also called the NC Weekender 1295 Fly. At just over 40 feet, this true three-level yacht boasts three staterooms, two heads, tons of comfortable seating and lounge space, and enough storage to bring all your stuff with you.

Beyond helm features for easier docking, this cabin cruiser is designed to carry you and your family comfortably. There’s not really another 40-foot flybridge that offers as much as the 1295 for the same price point.

The spacious salon level features sliding glass doors that open onto the aft cockpit. The aft galley is fully appointed and allows for the perfect flow for socialization during meals and hanging out. The cockpit features a walkthrough boarding door to port and a large fold-down swim terrace to starboard.

Finally, the staterooms and heads are large and comfortable, with plenty of storage and headroom below.

• Length: (Overall/Hull) 41 feet, 2 inches/12.56 meters; 39 feet, 1 inch/11.92 meters
• Beam: 12 feet, 6 inches/3.80 meters
• Draft: 2 feet, 6 inches/0.76 meters
• Hull Weight: 18,031 pounds/8,181 kilograms
• Bridge Clearance: 16 feet, 5 inches/5.0 meters
• Fuel Capacity: 310 gallons/1,174 liters
• Engines: 3x 300 horsepower Yamaha outboards
• CE Category: B10/C12

Rinker Boats

Rinker 270 Express Cruiser

Where to buy Rinker 270 Express Cruiser:

The Rinker boat company may have gone the way of the dinosaurs, but the 270 Express Cruiser will be around for a while. Polaris has assumed ownership and support for these agile cruisers.

Enjoy 6’5” cabin headroom, a fully equipped galley, a head with wet shower, and sleeping quarters that can stretch 4 people if it has to.

Rinker has designed a smaller boat that has designs that make it seem bigger. Step inside and see how functionality isn’t compromised by a more streamlined setup.

An older, discontinued model, but a good one.

And the Express Cruiser certainly loves to move, meaning you got the amenities in something that motors like a speed boat.

Wakeboarding and tubing is quite a reasonable thing to do with the 270.

Choose either the MerCruiser SeaCore Drive or the workhorse Volvo Penta OceanX Drive for gasoline or diesel motors respectively.

As an update, this model seems to be discontinued, but as a used boat for sale with low running hours, it could be an affordable way to satisfaction.

• Length: 28’10”
• Dry weight: 7,085lbs
• Capacity: sleeps 4
• Motor : Inboard MerC (gasoline) or Volvo Penta (Diesel)

Regal Boats

Regal 42 Fly

Where to buy Regal 42 Fly:

This spacious flybridge yacht is one of Regal’s flagships. It’s a cabin cruiser that flirts with the lifestyle aboard a larger motor yacht.

She’s already spacious, but the large windows add an incredibly open and light-filled feeling to all the spaces below.

The flybridge has a welcoming open layout for hanging out in the sun with 4-6 friends, and the upper salon, with its fully appointed galley, makes meal prep easy. Below decks, you’ll find two large staterooms, one with a queen-sized island berth and the other with an even larger king that can convert to two twins.

There’s a choice of adding an extra head instead of the lower galley and adding privacy walls. Performance-wise, driving this boat with Regal’s high-quality gauges and consoles will be a pleasure.

• Length: 41 feet, 11 inches
• Beam: 13 feet
• Draft: 44 inches
• Dry Weight: 27,400 lbs.
• Fuel Tank: 258 gal.
• Water Tank: 73 gal.
• Power Options: 2x Volvo D6 diesel with IPS drive (870 hp)

Back Cove Yachts

Back Cove 34O

Where to buy Back Cove 34O:

The perfectly balanced combination of performance, comfort, and downeast seaworthiness make the Back Cove 34O a cruising couple’s dream.

Her entirely new hull features Trailing Edge Lifting Surface (TRELIS) *D* design technology and is fitted with a standard bow thruster. The 34O delivers cruise and top-end speeds approximately 10 knots faster than the traditional single diesel Back Cove.

Built with entertaining in mind, the cockpit boasts an elegant salon with a versatile and comfortable settee along with a fully equipped galley. The aft-facing seat converts into a helm deck U-shaped dinette or second berth.

We’ve been seeing the double outboard motor solution on bigger boats in the last few years, and the Back Cove 340 does it pretty well. With twin 300hp Yamahas (or upgrade to 350hp with optional Suzuki), the performance of this cabin cruiser seems like a ski boat when it gets the chance to stretch its legs.

A couple of highlights of this cabin cruiser is the inventive helm step that provides excellent visibility as well as loads of storage space below the helm deck—large enough to fit all your water toys and fishing gear.

When dusk turns to dark, head over to the spacious master cabin where you’ll find a large and comfortable bed as well as a separate head and shower.

• Length: 38’11”
• Beam: 11’10”
• Dry weight: 17,000lbs
• Motor: 2 outboards

Azimut Yachts

Azimut Magellano 43

Where to buy Azimut Magellano 43:

The Azimut Magellano 43 deserves a place in our list for her unparalleled mix of solid-performance with uber-luxurious surroundings. It’s a cabin cruiser built for long-range yachting. You’ll want to just keep sailing on.

It features three decks of pure sophistication and attention to detail. It comes with three cabins, two full heads, a fully equipped galley, and loads of room to walk around, entertain, and relax.

Designed for luxury cruising, this trawler-inspired vessel comes with the unique Dual Mode hull, which ensures comfortable navigation and excellent seafaring even in choppy, deep-sea conditions.

This cabin cruiser, like the Grand Banks in this list, challenges the category and will likely be referred to by their owners and spectators as a beautiful yacht . That’s where this model fits on this list: a cabin cruiser boat that’s bigger in every way, including style and price.

It’s designed for extended voyages on bigger seas, but it’ll generate attention in the marina. The Magellano’s size will, however, make finding a slip difficult, so bear this in mind.

• Length: 43’10”
• Beam: 14’5”
• Dry weight: 38,800lbs
• Capacity: sleeps 5+
• Motor: 2 Inboard

Intrepid Powerboats

Intrepid 41 Valor

Where to buy Intrepid 41 Valor:

One of the most recent additions to the Intrepid Powerboats line-up is the 41 Valor, a cabin cruiser designed for performance.

Despite the temptation of doing the next Key West Poker Run, it features a clean and crisp design and offers you and your guests loads of comfort and space for a memorable day of cruising or a pleasant overnight stay.

The large wraparound cockpit lounge is great for entertaining. Add the optional wet bar and the party is complete.

The private retreat below the cockpit includes a large queen-size berth in the aft, a galley on the starboard side, a private head with shower stall on the port side along with a V-shaped settee that can also be converted into a berth with the optional Hi-Lo table and filler cushion.

As with all Intrepids, it also features the company’s signature stepped hull, which delivers a smooth, dry ride with unmatched performance. With 2 or 3 outboard motors to choose from–including Evinrude 200 up to Mercury 450R–the Poker Run is calling!

• Length: 41'85'’
• Beam: 11’9”
• Motor: 2 or 3 outboards

Regal 33 Express

Where to buy Regal 33 Express:

One of the best cabin cruisers we know of, the Regal 33 Express has everything you need to spend as much time on the water as you like. No small feat considering its diminutive size.

This boat has a spacious cockpit with well-thought-out seating options making it maneuverable and more  manageable than bigger cruisers.

Everyone will fight over their spot on the “UltraLounge,” an electrically activated four-position seat on the stern that is comfortable no matter how you use it. A cockpit bar-style galley has space for a fridge and electric grill.

Down below, the 33 Express has an enormous king-sized midship berth that can convert to two large twins. There’s a dinette built around a small galley and a convertible bunk forward that folds up and out of the settee. The head is large and features an electric toilet and a separate shower.

• Length: 34 feet, 3 inches
• Beam: 10 feet, 4 inches
• Draft (min/max): 21/37 inches
• Dry Weight: 13,200 lbs.
• Fuel Tank: 150 gal.
• Water Tank: 36 gal.
• Power Options: 2x Volvo V6 (560 hp) or 2x Volvo V8 (600 or 700 hp); or outboard power on the Regal 33XO

Sabre Yachts

Sabre Salon Express 38

Where to buy Sabre Salon Express 38:

Classic Downeast lines paired with all the right features make the Sabre Salon Express 38 “a boat that boaters recognize.”

This pocket cruising yacht —ideal for a couple or a small family—boasts an open, elegant, and inviting salon which opens up to an equally spacious and comfortable cockpit, great for entertaining and al fresco dining.

The cabin below comes with a fully equipped galley, a lounge, a master berth, as well as a full head. Add plenty of stowage to this cruiser and summer voyage is both realistic and uncompromising.

The classic profile, thrilling performance, and low sound levels make the Sabre SE 38 an icon of nautically sensible design.

• Length: 41’9”
• Beam: 13’4”
• Dry weight: 21,000lbs
• Capacity: Yacht certified
• Motor: 2 inboards

Jeanneau America

Jeanneau NC1095 Fly

Where to buy Jeanneau NC1095 Fly:

The NC1095 Fly is the culmination of a practical approach to a cabin cruiser with intelligent design spawned by a modern interpretation of what cruising is all about. This is an amazing 3 stateroom, 35-foot boat that can so easily be called a home away from home.

This is a plus model option to Juneau’s 35 foot flagship NC1095 that adds the flybridge for those lovely sunny days when you can lavish in getting closer to the sun. It has ample space in the aft section of the cockpit with a movable sofa seat when tilting the two outboard motors.

The salon itself is full of storage cubbies, a long galley table with sink and stove and a modular table that doubles as an additional berth. With the cockpit enclosure around the aft seating area, the living space becomes that much more impressive in a 35 footer.

The Fly is easily big enough for a family or a small party to while away a weekend or a summer playing cards, reading, while cruising to another horizon.

As a performance vessel, the NC1095 Fly handles like a bowrider . It’s twin Yamaha outboards are quiet but insistent and the controls–including bow thruster–make turning, docking, navigating intuitive and responsive. Powered by Garmin instruments with optional auto-pilot solutions, even less-experienced mariners will feel more at ease behind the wheel.

Speaking of space again, the recessed starboard side deck makes for quick access for laying out fenders and moorings, while access to the boat’s mechanical, power and fuel systems makes visual inspection and maintenance that much easier.

The V-berth stateroom has a lot of natural light and smart storage. The second berth has plenty of space with standing room too, while the third stateroom–a little smaller–still has a double bunk and an optional second fridge.

Built in the Cadillac, Michigan factory the venerable Juneau Yacht company has joined its artisan past with its desire to adapt and improve. The flydeck variant of their motor boat flagship is testament to Juneau’s history of understanding what works and doing it even better.

• Length: 34’3”
• Dry weight: 11,685lbs
• Capacity: Sleeps up to 8

Sea Ray Sundancer 320

Where to buy Sea Ray Sundancer 320:

In many ways, it was the Sundancer that made Sea Ray famous. With their classy blend of speed and overnight accommodations, these express cruisers are the perfect size for most boaters looking to get out on the water and enjoy a second home away from home.

Sundancers in the 31 to 32-foot range have long been the best sellers. It’s the Goldilocks boat that is neither too large nor too small. The current Sundancer 320 is available with either Mercruiser sterndrive or Mercury outboard power.

The Sundancer features some of the great technology you’ll find in other Sea Rays, including the submersible swim platform and plush seating. The bow now features a clever sun lounge with a walkway and removable table, making a much more functional space compared to similar cabin cruisers of the past.

• Length: 32 feet, 10 inches
• Beam: 10 feet, 7 inches
• Draft (max/min): 41 inches/30 inches
• Weight: 14,000 pounds
• Power: 2x Mercruiser 6.2L MPI ECT Bravo Three X (300 hp each)
• Number of people: Yacht Certified
• Fuel: 158 gallons

Jeanneau Leader 33

Where to buy Jeanneau Leader 33:

Cruise in functional style aboard the Leader 33. A moderately sized cabin cruiser with surprising space and plush interiors, the Leader 33 is a good entry boat into touring.

Available in two versions: an Open version with an arch and a Sport Top version with an electrically opening hard top, the Leader 33 boasts a spacious and functional layout which makes relaxing and entertaining a breeze.

Long windows in the hull offer beautiful sea views along with plenty of natural light in the cabin below. Also, two galleys, two sleeping berths, and an expansive head with a separate shower stall make the Leader 33 the ideal boat for a weekend getaway.

Junneau is a well-established name and there are plenty of solid used options for this model. When you find one for sale at a dealer or marina, take it for a spin.

• Length: 34’8”
• Dry weight: 10,829lbs

Regal 38 SAV

Where to buy Regal 38 SAV:

The Regal 38 SAV defies being put in a category. It looks like a simple center console, but it has the amenities of a fully-furbished cabin cruiser. It will thrive in the warm Gulf waters and the Caribbean.

The SAV stands for Sports Activity Vessel. In other words, it’s an SUV on the water with the functionality to match its name. Adjustable seating and the ability to go to the beach and go on a blue water cruise will keep the whole family happy, whether fishing, cruising, tanning, or playing in the water.

If you’re in the market for a boat that can comfortably entertain a crowd or take the family on a comfortable cruise, the 38 SAV is worth a look. While not as performance-oriented as other options, it offers features and a layout comparable to the Tiara 43 LE or Sea Ray SLX 400 but at a friendlier price point than either. If you want something with a fully enclosed cockpit, check out the Regal LS36 .  

• Length: 39 feet, 3 inches
• Beam: 11 feet, 11 inches
• Draft (min/max): 23/31 inches
• Dry Weight: 18,800 lbs.
• Fuel Tank: 340 gal.
• Power Options: 3x Yamaha 300 hp outboard

Related Reviews

Read full review

A Quick Guide to Cabin Cruisers 

They need a little more than just a cabin under the deck to be called a cabin cruiser. Think  bowrider or runabout  and expand outwards with a mind toward extending your daytrip so it potentially never ends. That entails more space and comfort like you get with your typical luxury yacht combined with performance associated with the bowriders.

The cabin cruisers we have on the list are designed with a maritime intelligence that incorporates deep and fundamental logic required to make recreational sailing as a lifestyle both safe and enjoyable. A model like the NC1095 Fly is a great example of a modern interpretation of a cabin cruiser that really embodies the maritime equivalent of a newer RV.

When deciding what vessel is right for you, figure out how much space you need, how long you’re going to be cruising and pay particular attention to how comfortable you feel navigating tighter waterways and docking. Smaller craft like the Chris-Craft 34 are easier to wrap your head around and if your needs and horizons are closer to home than this is a good vessel for cruising shorter overnight excursions and even navigating smaller waterways like river systems.

The bigger boats, like the Grand Banks 44, will appeal to longer voyages further out at sea. These are vessels that could even traverse the Atlantic–for the intrepid mariner–and have a great go of the Mediterranean.

While size will increase the challenges when navigating and docking (make sure to use boat fenders when docking), these modern cabin cruisers have been designed so well in order to make the pilot seem a steady, old hand at the helm.

Consider the need for bow thrusters, whether you want inboard motors or outboard motors (the latter tend to be cheaper and easier to maintain), air conditioning/heating, where you can get a boat slip and how readily available guest slips are for boats with the different beams (width).

These boats are still relatively easy to operate but they can go quite fast on the water. Remember to observe the customs and rules on the waves. Most importantly: enjoy.

Take a look at these videos that demonstrate some of the models on our list:

Continue reading our Boat Reviews:

• 7 Best Regal Boats 
• SeaRay Boats
• 8 Best StarCraft Boats
• 5 Best Crestliner Boats
• 13 Best Lowe Boats
• 7 Best Center Console Boats

Frequently asked questions

A cabin cruiser is a type of powerboat that typically ranges from 25 to 45 feet in length. Because they come with sleeping, cooking, and bathroom facilities they are a top choice for weekend trips but also manageable enough for quick day trips.

These are some of the best cabin cruiser brands on the market today:

• Cruiser Yachts

Prices will vary depending on the size as well as the included amenities.

A cabin cruiser usually costs between U$100,000 to U$700,000. However, more sophisticated models, like the  East Bay 44  can go for as much as U$1 million.

Cabin cruisers are very similar to larger yachts. They can cruise long distances and they offer many facilities that help keep passengers comfortable during long haul trips, but unlike a large yacht, a cabin cruiser boat does not require a professional crew aboard.

On this page

Table of content:, breadcrumbs.

• / Cabin Cruiser Boats

Love it! It would be fun to test drive each!

It’s possible to test a lot of them at a boat show. Board and check out the interior and, if you’re lucky, join along for a sea trial.

This is great feedback, and we’ll take it into account when updating our guides.

This is a great list. I keep coming back to them to discover more manufacturers and models. Is it possible, however, to add cost ranges to these models or generic $$$ cost brackets. The boat companies all like to hide the cost and not knowing the brands I am spending most of my time trying to figure out which one is the best value. You mentioned a range of $100k to $700k but I have yet to find the $100k model

What are the best “hardtop Express Cruisers in the 36′ LOA range with OB engines and a fully enclosed weatherproof helm/salon area? I would like a boat that can sleep six adults.

Hey Keith. Thank you for your service. Some of the boat makers have military discounts like Crestliner (for fishing boats mainly: https://www.crestliner.com/specials/military-discount/ ), but talk to the guys at your local marina. I’ve found that they do reward service with a price cut sometimes. Check out these guys too: https://www.harborsidemarinesales.com/

Hello Is there a disabled veteran discount?

Continue reading

Krash FootRocket Pro

Ronstan Sticky

Uniden MHS335BT

Gallery of cabin cruiser boats review.

A variety of Cabin Cruiser boats on water

Photo courtesy Tiara Yachts.

The Axopar cross cabin is an adventure boat with overnighting options.

The Merry Fisher 1295 Fly jumps on plane and tops out at about 40 knots.

• Waterproof Backpacks
• Duffel Bags
• Hiking Backpacks
• Waterproof Gear
• Teepee Tents
• Camping Chairs
• Heated Socks
• Marine Binoculars
• Night Vision Goggles
• Windbreaker Jackets
• Collapsible and Folding Wagons
• Portable Power Stations

• Dive Computer
• Scuba Diving BCD
• Scuba Regulators
• Freediving Fins
• Diving Wetsuits
• Women’s Wetsuits
• Scuba Diving Drysuits
• Rebreathers
• Scuba Diving Masks
• Snorkel Masks
• Full Face Diving Mask
• Full Face Snorkel Masks
• Prescription Dive Masks
• Prescription Snorkel Masks
• Snorkeling Gear
• Kids Wetsuits
• Seiko Dive Watches
• Best Underwater Cameras
• Waterproof Cameras
• Underwater Scooters
• Best Dive Knife
• Dive Lights
• Underwater Metal Detector
• Reef Safe Sunscreen
• Scuba Tanks
• Dive Destinations
• Liveaboards

• Paddle boards (SUP)
• Best Touring Paddle Boards
• Best Beginner Paddle Boards
• Motorized paddle boards
• Electric SUP Pumps
• Paddles For Paddle Boarding

• Beach Chairs
• Beach Umbrellas
• Beach Wagons
• Beach Tents
• Beach Canopy
• Beach Towels
• Beach Blankets
• Water Shoes
• Water Socks
• Boogie Boards

• Swimming Goggles
• Swimming Fins
• Swimming Earplugs
• Women’s Swim Shorts

• Getting into Sailing
• Life Jackets
• Marine Flares
• Waterproof Marine Radios
• Pontoon Boat Accessories
• Sailing Gloves
• Boat Fenders

• Inflatable Kayak
• Folding Kayaks
• Tandem Kayaks
• Sit On Top Kayaks
• Sea Touring Kayaks
• Ocean Kayak
• Pedal Kayaks
• Fishing Kayaks
• Kayak Life Vests
• Kayak Shoes
• Kayak Paddles
• Kayak Trailers
• Kayak Anchors
• How to Choose a Kayak – A Beginner’s Guide
• How To Choose a Kayak Paddle? [What You Need to Know]
• Kayaking Gear for Beginners
• What to Wear Kayaking
• Kayak Safety

• All Mountain Snowboards
• Snowboard Boots
• Snowboard Bindings
• Snowboard Helmets
• Snowboard Jackets
• Atomic Skis
• Blizzard Skis
• Ski Resorts in the US

• Travel Backpacks
• Weekender Bags
• Packing Cubes
• Suitcases and Travel Luggages
• The Best All-inclusive Resorts in the World

• Men’s Yoga Pants
• Yoga Shorts
• Yoga Mat Bags
• Yoga Blocks

• Laptop Backpack
• Mini Backpacks
• Mesh Backpacks
• Clear Backpacks
• Fanny Packs
• Water Bottles

• Waterproof Jacket
• Waterproof Pants
• Waterproof Watches
• Waterproof Headphones
• Snorkel Fins
• Best Snorkels
• Best Dive Sites in the World
• Best Dive Resorts in the World
• Central & South America
• North America
• Southeast Asia
• Indian Ocean
• Asia Pacific
• Middle East & Red Sea
• All Liveaboards
• Liveaboards in Australia
• Liveaboards in Fiji
• Liveaboards in Micronesia
• Liveaboards in Myanmar (Burma)
• Liveaboards in the Maldives
• Liveaboards in the Philippines
• Liveaboards in Egypt
• Liveaboards in Costa Rica
• Liveaboards in Belize
• Liveaboards in Mexico
• Liveaboards in the Galapagos Islands
• Aggressor Liveaboards
• Liveaboard in Thailand
• Liveaboards in Indonesia
• The Best Starboard Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
• Bluefin Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
• Isle Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
• Red Paddle Co. Ride 10’6
• ROC Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
• The Best iRocker Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
• Blackfin Paddle Boards
• Pontoon Boats
• Bowrider Boats
• Motor Yachts
• Inflatable Boats
• Electric Surfboard
• Efoil Board
• Jet Body Boards
• All-Mountain Skis
• Ski Bindings
• Ski Poles for Downhill & Touring
• Ski Goggles
• Ski Gloves and Mittens
• Ski Jackets
• Ski and Snowboarding Pants and Bibs
• Ski Helmets
• Best Resorts in North America
• Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort
• Copper Mountain Ski Resort
• Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort Area Review
• Jackson Hole Ski Resort
• Telluride Ski Resort
• Aspen Ski Resort
• Crested Butte Ski Resort
• Kirkwood Ski Resort
• Alta Ski Resor
• Park City Ski Resort
• Winter Park Resort
• Breckenridge Ski Resort
• Vail Ski Resort
• Snowmass Ski Resort
• Heavenly Ski Resort
• Taos Ski Valley
• Palisades Tahoe Ski Resort
• Ski Santa Fe
• Angel Fire Ski Resort
• Sun Valley Ski resort
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Aruba
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Cabo
• All-inclusive resort in Cancun
• All-Inclusive Resorts In Costa Rica
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Cozumel
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Hawaii
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico
• All-Inclusive Puerto Rico Resorts
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Tulum
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Turks and Caicos
• Best Diving in the Caribbean
• Diving in Guadeloupe
• Diving in Aruba
• Diving in Antigua and Barbuda
• Diving in the Bahamas
• Diving in Barbados
• Diving in Bonaire
• Diving in the British Virgin Islands
• Diving in Cayman Islands
• Diving in Cuba
• Diving in Curacao
• Diving in Dominican Republic
• Diving in Grenada
• Diving in Jamaica
• Diving in Martinique
• Diving in Puerto Rico
• Diving in St. Maarten
• Diving in St. Lucia
• Diving in Tobago
• Diving in the Turks and Caicos
• Diving in Belize
• Diving in Costa Rica
• Diving in the Galapagos Islands
• Diving in Mexico
• Diving in Roatan Honduras
• Diving in California
• Diving in Florida
• Diving in North Carolina
• Best Diving in Southeast Asia
• Diving in Thailand
• Diving in the Philippines
• Diving in Indonesia
• Diving in Vietnam
• Diving in Cambodia
• Diving in the Maldives
• Diving in Australia
• Diving in Japan
• Diving in Fiji
• Best Diving in Europe
• Diving in Mallorca
• Diving in Malta
• Diving In Denmark
• Diving in Egypt
• All Liveaboards in Thailand
• Liveaboards in the Similan Islands
• All Liveaboards in Indonesia
• Liveaboards in Komodo
• Women’s Life Vest
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Playa del Carmen
• All Diving in Mexico
• Diving in Cozumel
• Diving In Similan Islands – Khao Lak Area
• Diving in Malapascua
• All the Diving in Indonesia
• Diving in Bali
• Diving in Gili Islands
• Diving in Komodo
• Diving in Sulawesi
• Diving in Raja Ampat
• All Diving in Australia
• Diving In Brothers Islands

Paddle boarding

Everyday Life

• BOAT OF THE YEAR
• Newsletters
• Sailboat Reviews
• Boating Safety
• Sails and Rigging
• Maintenance
• Sailing Totem
• Sailor & Galley
• Living Aboard
• Destinations
• Gear & Electronics
• Charter Resources
• Ultimate Boating Giveaway

40 Best Sailboats

• By Cruising World Editors
• Updated: May 24, 2024

Sailors are certainly passionate about their boats, and if you doubt that bold statement, try posting an article dubbed “ 40 Best Sailboats ” and see what happens.

Barely had the list gone live, when one reader responded, “Where do I begin? So many glaring omissions!” Like scores of others, he listed a number of sailboats and brands that we were too stupid to think of, but unlike some, he did sign off on a somewhat upbeat note: “If it weren’t for the presence of the Bermuda 40 in Cruising World’s list, I wouldn’t even have bothered to vote.”

By vote, he means that he, like hundreds of other readers, took the time to click through to an accompanying page where we asked you to help us reshuffle our alphabetical listing of noteworthy production sailboats so that we could rank them instead by popularity. So we ask you to keep in mind that this list of the best sailboats was created by our readers.

The quest to building this list all began with such a simple question, one that’s probably been posed at one time or another in any bar where sailors meet to raise a glass or two: If you had to pick, what’re the best sailboats ever built?

In no time, a dozen or more from a variety of sailboat manufacturers were on the table and the debate was on. And so, having fun with it, we decided to put the same question to a handful of CW ‘s friends: writers and sailors and designers and builders whose opinions we value. Their favorites poured in and soon an inkling of a list began to take shape. To corral things a bit and avoid going all the way back to Joshua Slocum and his venerable Spray —Hell, to Noah and his infamous Ark —we decided to focus our concentration on production monohull sailboats, which literally opened up the sport to anyone who wanted to get out on the water. And since CW is on the verge or turning 40, we decided that would be a nice round number at which to draw the line and usher in our coming ruby anniversary.

If you enjoy scrolling through this list, which includes all types of sailboats, then perhaps you would also be interested in browsing our list of the Best Cruising Sailboats . Check it out and, of course, feel free to add your favorite boat, too. Here at Cruising World , we like nothing better than talking about boats, and it turns out, so do you.

– LEARN THE NAVIGATION RULES – Know the “Rules of the Road” that govern all boat traffic. Be courteous and never assume other boaters can see you. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

40. Moore 24

39. Pearson Vanguard

38. Dufour Arpege 30

37. Alerion Express 28

36. Mason 43/44

35. Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 43DS

34. Nor’Sea 27

33. Freedom 40

32. Beneteau Sense 50

31. Nonsuch 30

30. Swan 44

29. C&C Landfall 38

28. Gulfstar 50

27. Sabre 36

26. Pearson Triton

– CHECK THE FIT – Follow these guidelines to make sure your life jacket looks good, stays comfortable and works when you need it. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

25. Islander 36

24. Gozzard 36

23. Bristol 40

22. Tartan 34

21. Morgan Out Island 41

20. Hylas 49

19. Contessa 26

18. Whitby 42

17. Columbia 50

16. Morris 36

15. Hunter 356

13. Beneteau 423

12. Westsail 32

– CHECK THE WEATHER – The weather changes all the time. Always check the forecast and prepare for the worst case. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

10. Alberg 30

9. Island Packet 38

8. Passport 40

7. Tayana 37

6. Peterson 44

5. Pacific Seacraft 37

4. Hallberg-Rassy 42

3. Catalina 30

2. Hinckley Bermuda 40

1. Valiant 40

• More: monohull , Sailboats
• More Sailboats

Pre-Owned: 1988 Hylas 47

Catalina Introduces the 6 Series

Sailboat Preview: Elan GT6 Explorer

For Sale: 1984 Camper & Nicholsons 58

Galápagos: A Paradise Worth the Paperwork

Around Alone

Grease the Wheels of Your Boat: A Guide to Proper Lubrication

A Bowsprit Reborn: A DIY Renovation Story

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Email Newsletters
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding