the best trawler yachts

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Top 15 Trawlers for 2023

• By Patrick Sciacca
• October 13, 2023

For every shoe, there’s a foot, and for every boating enthusiast, there’s a yacht. For those individuals who like to cruise their yachts across blue water, spend months on board or voyage to remote beaches and quiet coves, a trawler yacht is the go-to vessel choice. But even within this yacht genre, there are many options. For example, there are some mighty midsize trawlers that are easily capable of transatlantic crossings for an adventurous couple, and then there are megayacht-size craft with next-level amenities that require extra crew. Some trawler-yacht builders offer significant customization and others work from a fixed options list. There are single-engine trawlers and twin-engine trawlers. One thing that is common is that these trawler yachts are designed from the ground up for yachtsmen with wanderlust in their hearts.

Top Trawlers 

The following 15 trawlers are all vessels we’ve written about. They are listed in no particular order.

• Nordhavn 96 : Built for an owner who desired to self-sufficiently while cruising the world, literally.
• Beneteau Grand Trawler 62 : This trawler can travel nonstop for 1,000 nautical miles.
• Kadey-Krogen 52 : This twin-engine-capable, all-oceans trawler is a solid fit for voyaging cruising couples.
• Bering Yachts B76 : The B76 is the builder’s first fully custom trawler in this size range.
• Ranger Tugs R-43 Command Bridge : This vessel is equally comfortable at a 7-knot stroll or an 18-knot jog.
• Beneteau 48 Swift Trawler : Based on the builder’s Swift Trawler 47, this yacht has a resin-infused fiberglass hull.
• Kadey-Krogen 50 Open : The 50 Open can cruise at 6 knots nonstop for 5,000 nautical miles.
• Outer Reef 620 Trident : It has a three-stateroom layout and optional 600 hp Cummins diesels.
• Grand Banks 60 Skylounge : This yacht is efficient across a variety of cruising speeds.
• Krogen Express 52 : Headroom to spare, two staterooms, a chef-ready galley and long range define this trawler yacht.
• Grand Banks 85 Skylounge : Grand Banks’ V-warp hull form makes for a level running attitude, seakindliness and long range.
• Vicem Yachts 82 Classic : Construction is in cold-molded, strip-planked mahogany with epoxy.
• Outer Reef 610 Motoryacht : Power on this Outer Reef is a pair of 500 hp John Deere 6090 diesels.
• Nordhavn 59 Coastal Pilot : Did someone say this is a 20-knot Nordhavn?
• Marlow 58E : A high level of customization and admirable performance are at the heart of the Marlow 58E.

Nordhavn 96

The Nordhavn 96 is the yacht builder’s second-largest yacht its 17-model fleet, which ranges from 41 to 120 feet length overall. (There is a new 112 on the drawing table.) The builder says the N96 is based on its earlier 86-footer with a 10-foot cockpit extension, which increases both main-deck, skylounge and below-deck volume. The N96 we reviewed was built by an owner who previously had an 86-foot Nordhavn, but with his plans for extended cruises to remote destinations, the 96 was the right size for his voyaging plans. In fact, since the owner took delivery of the boat, it has been on a continuous circumnavigation.

Quick Specifications

Beneteau Grand Trawler 62

Beneteau’s Grand Trawler 62 has 1,000-plus-mile range and 20-knot speed with twin 730 hp i6 MAN diesels . The Grand Trawler 62 is the builder’s flagship in its Trawler series, which also includes the Swift Trawler 35 , Swift Trawler 41 Sedan ,  Swift Trawler 41 Fly and Swift Trawler 48 . Small touches set the Beneteau Grand Trawler 62 apart. They include sea rails on all lockers to keep stowed food and gear in place, leather-wrapped interior handrails for security in a seaway, and leather drawer pulls like those found on larger yachts. Long-range cruising accommodations include a full-beam master stateroom aft, a forepeak VIP and twin-berth guest stateroom. A Quick X3 gyrostabilizer helps mitigate any potential rocking and rolling on rough days.

Kadey-Krogen 52

The Kadey-Krogen 52 is the trawler-yacht builder’s smallest offering in its raised-pilothouse series, complete with a Portuguese Bridge. Owners can choose from either a two- or three-stateroom layout, and between a single-diesel engine or twin-diesel engines, for owners seeking redundancy. The standard engine is a 231 hp John Deere diesel. With the single-engine setup, draft is 5’5” and with twins it’s a shallower 4’6”. At 6 knots, range is an ocean-crossing 4,850 nautical miles. At 7 knots, it’s 3,300 nm. At 9 knots, it 1,700 nm. The builder states, “The entire Krogen 52 is built from only three molded pieces for maximized structural integrity. There are no additional secondary bonds or caulk joints that can inevitably cause issues. All deck and superstructures are cored and vacuum-bagged to maximize strength while minimizing weight.” Additionally, six longitudinal stringers enhance overall strength.

Bering Yachts B76

Lemanja  is the first custom boat that Bering has built in this size range. The yacht is notable for its steel hull and aluminum superstructure, and for its 4,000-nautical-mile-plus range with its twin 404 hp Cummins QSL9 diesel engines. As rugged as the Bering 76 is built on the outside, it also offers homelike comforts in its skylounge inside, offering panoramic views out large windows surrounding the space. Sole-to-ceiling glass offers similar views in the open-plan salon. Accommodations are fox six guests in three staterooms with a master stateroom and two guest staterooms, plus crew accommodations. In addition to its traditional diesel engines, the B76 has a solar-rechargeable battery bank for hybrid propulsion.

Ranger Tugs R-43 Command Bridge

The Ranger Tugs R-43 Command Bridge is a long-distance cruiser with creature comforts. Our expert found the R-43 Command Bridge to be a solid candidate to cruise The Great Loop . We agree. Twin Volvo Penta IPS450 pod drives give the boat efficient low and high cruise speeds at 7 and 18 knots, respectively. For those that have work during their cruise, the R-43 Command bridge’s master stateroom is set up with an office with a desk. Long trips require extra stowage and a way to clean salty clothes, so on the R-43 Command Bridge there is a washer, dryer, auxiliary refrigerator/freezer and stowage under the dinette, which rises on electric rams. Voyagers who buy a R-43 Commander Bridge can opt for a Factory Delivery Experience, which is three days of instruction on Puget Sound, and includes in boat systems, handling and maintenance.

Beneteau Swift Trawler 48

The Beneteau Swift Trawler 48 has a 1,300-nautical-mile range at 8 knots, but can also speed away at 26 knots if the weather goes south in a hurry. Based on the builder’s 47-footer , the three-stateroom, two-head Swift Trawler 48 has a resin-infused fiberglass hull. Power is a pair of 425 hp Cummins diesels. The main-deck layout includes a galley aft setup, which is accessible to the cockpit. There, the seating and dining area can be fully enclosed, with tracks in place for side curtains. The helmsman is kept comfortable on long passages with a bolstered, pedestal bucket-style seat with a flip-up footrest. The Swift Trawler 48 we reviewed had upgraded 12-inch Raymarine HybridTouch displays (9-inch screens are standard).

Kadey-Krogen 50 Open

Designed for serious extended cruising,  Kadey-Krogen Yachts 50 Open provides owners with amenities that will enhance those longer passages. The galley is fitted with a Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer, a four-burner Wolf range, a microwave and an optional dishwasher. Unlike in many trawlers and their traditional pilothouse design, the galley is located on the same level as the helm and salon. Belowdecks is the master stateroom amidships with two hanging lockers, 12 cabinets, additional drawers for stowage and an en suite head, shower and two sinks. Forward of the master is an office. The 50 Open’s hull has soft chines and a curved after end, much like the characteristics of a sailboat built for cruising. The result is an efficient hull form that provides a gentle landing into troughs when the sea gets a temper. This trawler can cruise at 6 knots for 5,000 nautical miles; 7 knots for 3,000 nautical miles; 8 knots for 2,100 nautical miles; and 9 knots for 1,200 nautical miles.

Outer Reef 620 Trident

Outer Reef Yachts 620 Trident delivers a three-stateroom layout and optional 600 hp Cummins diesels that allow this vessel to approach a top hop of 21 knots. Cruising speed is a little over 16 knots, burning about 34 gallons of fuel per hour at 2,750 rpm. The amidships master stateroom has 6-foot-8-inch headroom, a walk-in closet and a shower enclosed in smoked glass. In the forepeak VIP stateroom, there are seven drawers, a hanging locker, a 31-inch Samsung TV and 7-foot headroom. The portside guest stateroom can convert to an office, too. The aft galley has a U-shape countertop, a three-burner electric cooktop, a Bosch microwave and a Vitrifrigo refrigerator and freezer. Cherry, walnut and oak are the available wood options.

Grand Banks 60 Skylounge

It’s obvious after a quick peek inside the Grand Banks 60 Skylounge that the  Grand Banks Yachts  trademark external DNA is retained. The deck, cabin house and skylounge are all composed of infused carbon fiber, reducing weight aloft and creating a lower center of gravity. With twin 900 hp Volvo Penta D13 diesels , the 60 Skylounge can accelerate to 31 knots and cruise at about 25 knots. The 60 Skylounge can also travel up to 2,000 nautical miles at 10 knots on a 1,530-gallon fuel tank. Twin 1,000 hp Volvo Penta IPS1200s are also available.

Krogen Express 52

The Krogen Express 52 runs on twin 440 hp Yanmar diesels and can cruise at 8 knots for 1,680 nautical miles or at 16 knots for 500 nautical miles. Top hop:  22 knots. In the interior,  Krogen Express  has outfitted the 52 with a master stateroom and a guest stateroom. The former has a queen island berth, more than 7-foot headroom, hanging lockers and smaller cubbies to port and to starboard, and an en suite head with a molded fiberglass shower stall with a seat, a VacuFlush toilet and a granite countertop. A power lift elevates the berth and grants access to more stowage underneath. The Krogen Express 52’s salon has a 26-inch HD LED TV and a home-theater system, leather Stressless chairs to port and a built-in, L-shape settee to starboard. The galley boasts granite countertops, a three-burner Force 10 propane range with an oven, a refrigerator, a GE microwave oven, a deep Elkay sink and a pullout sprayer faucet. There is a Buff Ultraleather Stidd helm seat for extra comfort during long runs.

Grand Banks 85 Skylounge

The Grand Banks 85 Skylounge comes in at more than 87 feet length overall and displaces 108,000 pounds, with a 22-plus-foot beam and an air draft of just under 26 feet. Owners can choose either a three- or four-stateroom layout. The standard motors are twin 1,000 hp Volvo Penta IPS diesels, twin 1,300 hp MAN straight-shaft diesels are optional. With the larger engines, owners can also choose an optional stern thruster, in addition to the standard bow thruster. With the IPS diesels, top speed is 26.5 knots and fuel burn is 100 gallons per hour, resulting in a range of 699 nautical miles. At a 21-knot cruise speed, fuel consumption drops to 57 gph, and range climbs to 972 nm. At a 9-knot jog, fuel burn falls to 9 gph, and the Grand Banks 85 Skylounge can cruise nonstop for about 2,500 nautical miles.

Vicem 82 Classic Flybridge

The Vicem 82 Classic is a flybridge model built in cold-molded mahogany, which creates a stout hull form with reduced weight. The yacht is notable for its timeless Downeast lines and strong joiner work. For cruising enthusiasts, the Classic 82 Flybridge is powered with twin 900 hp Volvo Penta D13 diesels . The yacht has a top-end speed of 17.8 knots, and the cruising speed is 15 knots. At 9 knots, and considering a 10-percent fuel reserve, range is reportedly 1,100 nautical miles.  Accommodations three en-suite-equipped staterooms. The master stateroom is full-beam and amidships with a king-size berth is on centerline. The starboard-side guest stateroom and a forepeak VIP each have queen-size berths.

Outer Reef 610 Motoryacht

Built for an enthusiastic cruising couple after a three-year boat search, the Outer Reef Yachts 610 Motoryacht (part of the builder’s Classic series ), was customized with a fore-and-aft berth in the owners’ stateroom (as in, not athwartships), and berths rather than bunks in the smaller of two guest staterooms. This Outer Reef 610 was designed to be used as a liveaboard vessel, so the salon is not set up for dining (there are tables in the pilothouse, on the aft deck and on the bridge). A pair of swivel chairs in the salon face the built-in couch and the pop-up TV to port. The 610 is built with hand-laid fiberglass, PVC coring above the waterline, resin infusion and a vinylester barrier coat against osmosis. Power is twin 500 hp John Deere 6090 diesels turning ZF transmissions . The 610 tops out at about 13.5 knots with full tanks and 21 people aboard. The engines burn 20 gph at 1,800 rpm for 11 knots at 45 percent engine load. Those numbers should allow it to cross oceans without shortening engine life.

Nordhavn 59 Coastal Pilot

Nordhavn has long been known for its stout circumnavigation -capable craft, and the Nordhavn 59 Coastal Pilot carries on the the tradition of a beefy build with addition of…speed. Twenty-knots-plus, actually. Twin 715 hp Cummins diesel inboards and a new semidisplacement hull form  are said to be key to the performance equation. The Nordhavn 59CP has a 777-nautical-mile range at a 9.3-knot cruise, and a 255-nm range at its 20.3-knot top-end. Construction is a solid fiberglass hull bottom supported by full-length longitudinal stringers and a series of transversal supports for added backbone. High freeboard should keep the decks dry in a seaway, while rails keep the crew secure during transits. Nordhavn says the 59CP has a “CE category A unlimited offshore rating, ensuring the vessel has the seakeeping and strength capabilities to take on most serious coastal cruises up to 1,000 miles.”

Marlow Yachts 58E

Following on the successful Marlow 57 , the Marlow 58E was started from scratch on a blank sheet of paper. The essence of the 58E is that it has better performance and more internal and external volume than her predecessor. The centerline length grew 10 inches over the 57, but the waterline length increased 16 inches and the beam widened 4 inches. If you were to examine the two boats out of the water, you would see more bell-shaped forward sections making for a soft impact with the vee’d portion. Power options start with twin 575 hp Caterpillar C9 diesels, but the 58E we got aboard had beefier twin 1,015 hp Caterpillar C18 diesels. Top speed: 27.9 knots. At 8 knots, the Marlow 58E can cruise nonstop for 1,400 nautical miles.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is a trawler yacht?

A true trawler typically has a full-displacement hull form and robust construction to handle open-water operation, and it’s designed to operate self-sufficiently for long periods of time. They are slow-cruising vessels, but over the years, hybrid yachts called fast trawlers have emerged to offer displacement-speed operation as well as the ability to run at planing speeds when desired.

What is a full-displacement hull form?

A displacement-hull form is known is for its rounded nature and deep draft. Full-displacement vessels do not plane on the water, but rather push through the water. This hull design makes displacement-hull vessels incredibly seakindly, but it also makes them relatively slow (think 5, 6, 7, 8 knots) when compared to semidisplacement- and planning-hull designs.

Is a long-range cruiser the same as a trawler?

While all trawlers are certainly long-range cruisers, not all long-range cruisers are trawlers. True trawlers will have full-displacement hull designs and not all long-range cruisers have them.

• More: Beneteau , Bering Yachts , Grand Banks , Kadey-Krogen , Krogen Express , Marlow , Nordhavn , Outer Reef , Ranger Tugs , Trawlers , Vicem , Yachts
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Top 6 Trawlers For Cruising With Families [Yacht Buyer’s Guide]

Fast, slow, large or small — these are the best trawler yachts for family fun on the water..

Looking for a boat to accommodate your family? Look no further than the trawler, boating’s distinct type of vessel that’s designed for long distanced cruising or extended vacations. Livability and practicality make trawlers a perfect family yacht . They offer spacious accommodation and versatility in performance while being easy for the captain to maneuver.

We’re featuring the top 6 trawlers for cruising with families, currently for sale with Denison Yachting. No need to pack light when setting out on an unforgettable boating adventure aboard one of these vessels.

1. Beneteau Swift Trawler 41

The Beneteau Swift Trawler 41 is a new addition to the swift trawler fleet and an excellent option for families. She’s affordable, spacious, and great on fuel — at a top speed of 23 knots, she can drive to the Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale with plenty of fuel left to cruise around and return without a refill.

Large interior windows create an ideal galley for parents to watch the kids play in the water while making lunch. She can accommodate up to seven people with three cabins, two heads, and fully equipped amenities to enjoy long-distance cruises or weekend trips with family and friends. She’s available in a flybridge or sedan style.

The new Beneteau Swift Trawler 41 exudes safety and luxury while preserving performance and comfort. The ST 41 will be featured at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2020 — stop by to check her out or contact a Denison yacht broker for a private showing of this seaworthy cruiser.

2. 86’ Outer Reefs Yacht 2017

This 86′ Outer Reef Yacht , named Simon Says , was designed for travel. Her systems were built and optimized for sea conditions that would otherwise prevent a similar size yacht to seek shelter in the closest port. This trawler is made to accommodate a family, plus crew with eight cabins in total.

Her 3,500-gallon fuel reserve lets her sail comfortably for an extended period of time at a cruising speed that ranges from 8.5 knots to 14.5 knots. Her standout features include a sky lounge, beautiful teak, and spacious country kitchen that makes her the perfect trawler for accommodating families.

3. 70’ Marlow 2008

Pappy’s Toy is an elegant used trawler for sale with Denison Yachting. This family trawler was recently updated with a new bottom paint job, hull compound and wax, and new stabilizer seals. She’s equipped and built for long-range cruising with the help of a crew.

This 70’ Marlow is made for cruising with families because she’s comfortable, spacious, and homey. Her standout features include a wet bar, a large entertainment center, and a VIP guest stateroom. Pappy’s Toy is ready to take you on a luxury family adventure along the coasts.

4. Beneteau Swift Trawler 47

Another new addition to the Swift Trawler range is Beneteau’s Swift Trawler 47 . She offers more room and more power than your typical trawler. The ST 47 provides a true sense of comfort and the ability to take you farther and faster.

The new ST 47 features an open-deck layout, with large walkways and handrails to help passengers move around safely. Her generous cabin space can accommodate up to eight people on board the vessel. She combines those familiar characteristics of a classic long-range cruiser with the speed and convenience of a yacht twice her size.

5. 70’ Marlow 2005

Marlow Yachts were built with performance and innovation in mind. Bravo Zulu is the most well-equipped and meticulously maintained used Marlows for sale with Denison Yachting. Her updates were made with a family in mind, including a brand new electronics package, new teak decks on the swim platform, and a flybridge enclosure to protect from the elements.

Her three-stateroom, four-head layout with separate crew quarters makes her a comfortable trawler to live in. The master suite includes a king-size berth, office, and plenty of storage — there’s even a separate washer and dryer. You can easily spend weeks on Bravo Zulu and feel pleasantly at home on the water.

6. 65′ Hampton 2009

This 69′ Hampton 2009, named FeuryUs , is for sale in Old Saybrook, Connecticut with Denison Yachting. She’s in excellent condition with over $300,000 in upgrades, including new Garmin electronics, joystick dockmate remote control, and stabilizers with larger fins. FeuryUs is perfect for families or entertaining guests as she’s fully equipped with four cabins, four heads, a cozy salon, and a large aft deck. She’s stable and reliable, with plenty of space for storage and entertaining.

FeuryUs has the capability of a 1,500-mile range at 8 knots (900 rpm), but can be pushed up to 19 knots at full throttle (in case you need to outrun a storm or want to get back in time for happy hour on the dock). She’s is one of those yachts that make you feel unstoppable on the water, and she’s ready to make memories with you and your family.

Trawlers are an excellent choice if you’re in the market for a comfortable and spacious boat. Their large fuel capacity makes them ideal for long-distance cruising and overnight vacations. Contact a Denison yacht broker to find the right trawler for you and your family.

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Best Trawlers for 2024 – Top 5 Options to Consider

Swift Trawler 50

Nordic Tugs 54 Trawler

Ranger Tugs R-23

If you love the idea of long-range cruising on the open ocean in a seaworthy vessel that offers the creature comforts you need to live in your watercraft for extended periods, a trawler is precisely what you need in your life.

It’s the closest thing you can get to a yacht without the hefty price tag that comes with it. If you squint hard enough, trawlers look like mini-yachts.

They are stout vessels fitted with powerful engines, a skeg, and a displacement hull designed to plane on the water. Below deck, you’ll find a pilothouse forward, an engine room, a freezer hold, a galley, and accommodations that can host a small crew.

But, perhaps the most important feature of trawlers is that they are designed for fishing . Most come with heavy fishing machinery such as net rollers and trawl winches, which incidentally, is how these vessels get their name. They tow a net through the water to herd and capture fish – a technique known as “trawling.”

So, what are the best trawlers, and how do you choose the best one? We’ve reviewed the top 5 options and put together a comprehensive buyer’s guide to help you pick the best one.

Beneteau is best known for its range of powerboat and sailboat watercraft . Now, if you thought those boats were amazing, you haven’t seen their range of Swift Trawlers.

The Swift Trawler 50 , in particular, is an absolute beauty. It has an expansive interior with lots of natural lighting and exquisite intelligently-designed fittings that make it perfect for both fishing expeditions, as well as romantic or family getaways if you ever need a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The boat has a spacious deck plan with wide walkways and high bulwarks for added safety onboard. Standard features include a flybridge lounge that comes with a foldable sliding table, an external galley with a sink and worktop, as well as an optional electric grill.

The U-shaped galley comes with two refrigerators, an extractor hood, a double sink, and a service hatch. All in all, the Swift Trawler 50 adds a whole new dimension to luxury cruising.

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● Fully-customizable ● Spacious and luxurious interior ● Comes with lots of convenience amenities

● Slightly pricey

If you love the finer things in life and don’t mind spending a little extra moolah on a boat, you need to check out the Nordic Tugs 54 Trawler. Its meticulous craftsmanship, stunning exterior design, and plush interior finishes make this vessel feel like an ultra-luxurious home on the water.

This American-built trawler has plenty of room inside and comfortably sleeps up to six people. We particularly love its custom wooden fittings that blend luxury and sophistication to give you a true masterpiece.

The beauty of this Nordic tug isn’t skin deep either. This trawler is powered by a 670hp diesel Volvo Penta engine to give you a cruising range of approximately 2,600 NM at 8 knots. So, if you want a vessel that oozes opulence and has loads of comfort and convenience features to boot, the 54 Trawler is precisely what you need.

● Excellent craftsmanship ● Exquisite interior finishes ● Large cruising range

● It’s a bit of a fuel guzzler

Trawlers don’t exactly come cheap. Most of them retail for $500,000+. The Ranger Tugs R-23, however, was designed with the price-conscious boater in mind. At a base price of only $115,000, this trawler boat delivers outstanding value for money.

It is powered by a 200hp Yamaha outboard engine and has a very open and airy feeling about it. The galley is equipped with a microwave, cooktop, and refrigerator with a freezer. This ensures that you have everything you need for those long extended stays out on the water.

It has plenty of storage and is highly versatile – a feature that ensures every space on the boat has multiple uses. For instance, the dinette converts to a sleeper, while the mid-berth can be used as storage or converted to a sleeper for the kids. It also has separate sleeping accommodation for two, or you can add the filler cushion to combine them.

What sets the R-23 apart from other trawlers in its class is the fact that it has many of the same amenities you would expect in a larger cruising yacht. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a similar vessel at that price point.

● Great value for money ● Packed with loads of convenience amenities ● Suitable for long-range cruising

● The engine is slightly noisy

If you’re up for a cruising adventure on the open ocean, then you’ll love what the Kadey-Krogen range of trawlers brings to the table. The boat manufacturer has been around for more than four decades and has maintained its classic patented full-displacement hull design, making these trawlers one of the most stable vessels you’ll come across.

This makes them perfect for ocean cruising, even in rough waters and sloppy weather conditions. It has ample room to store all the fuel and supplies required for long passages across the ocean.

The Krogen 50 , in particular, is a work of art. Its beauty takes your breath away the moment you lay your eyes on it. The interior has a rich, cozy home-like feel that makes you forget you’re on the water. Every aspect of this trawler is designed meticulously to combine high-performance capabilities with livability.

● Built for long ocean cruises ● Provides exceptional stability even in the rough waters of the high seas ● Beautiful interior design

● Slower than other trawlers in its class

Nordhavn 41

No list of top trawlers would be deemed complete if it didn’t feature Nordhavn. The boat manufacturer has been around for several decades and is renowned for its well-engineered crafts built to last a lifetime.

Now, if you’re in the market for a liveaboard trawler that you can use to cross oceans on your cruise around the world, the Nordhavn 41 is designed to do just that. The folks there weren’t playing around when they built this boat.

They employed the world’s most advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics alongside the latest design technology to produce the safest and most efficient watercraft you’ll ever come across. It has ample liveaboard space, with an expansive galley that comes with loads of amenities like a stovetop, refrigerator, cabinetry, and a countertop.

It also has an exquisite master cabin and a guest stateroom that sleeps two. All in all, if you plan to live onboard your trawler, this is the boat you want to do it in.

● Roomy interior ● Has several convenience features ● Built to last a lifetime

● Fuel efficiency not as you would expect

How to Choose the Best Trawlers – Mistakes to Avoid

There’s an old saying that trawler owners have some of the most impressive cruising résumés in the boating world. That experience has come, in large part, from trial and error.

And, make no mistake about it – the opportunity to make a big blunder is always lurking around the corner. In this buyer’s guide, we explore some of the mistakes to avoid when you go trawler shopping, as well as some useful tips that will come in handy when looking for the best trawlers.

1. Setting Unrealistic Expectations

This is the easiest of mistakes to make, especially if you’re a first-time buyer. But, as long as you do your homework and research on the boat you want to buy, it’s easy to minimize the chances of making this classic rookie mistake.

The first step involves a serious introspection about what you want to use the boat for – for the first five years, at least. Five years is the sweet spot.

Do you plan to use it for some heavy-duty fishing, or do you intend to use it more for recreational purposes like cruising the open ocean waters with your family? Once that’s clear in your mind, then and only then can you start the search for your perfect boat.

There are three main things you need to think about when looking for the best trawlers to buy.

Hull Design

First is the hull design. This is important since it will affect the way your boat handles in rough waters. Ideally, you want a boat with a full-displacement hull that’s ballasted.

It should be able to give you the range you need to make long ocean passages and economic enough to get you to your destination and back without having to spend a small fortune in the process.

If, on the other hand, you want to get to your destination faster and don’t plan on venturing into exceptionally choppy waters, a trawler with a semi-displacement hull will suffice since it runs faster compared to its full-displacement counterparts.

The next thing you need to consider is the overall safety of the trawler you want to get. Some of the features you should be looking out for include its ability to navigate extreme weather conditions , remain stable in the rough open seas, and carry heavy equipment on board. The vessel you buy should also be unsinkable.

Finally, you should think about the comfort and convenience features that come with the boat. You are, after all, going to be out at sea for long periods.

Now, if the purpose of the boat you’re getting is exclusively for fishing, then you can get away with buying a basic boat with Spartan accommodations. Such a boat would be more focused on the fishing features built into the boat’s design and less on luxury.

On the other hand, if you intend to use it for recreational purposes, the majority of the time, get a boat whose interior setup makes it ideal for the whole family. It should have plenty of comfort and convenience amenities that make it feel like a home away from home.

Once you know the type of trawler you want to get based on what you plan to use it for, you can now start narrowing down the specific models that embody your vision for the perfect boat. Sea trials should soon follow to give you a feel of the trawler’s handling characteristics.

We cannot emphasize enough how important this step is. This is why you should take the sea trial bit very seriously. So, while the boat is still at the dealer’s dock, schedule a long sea trial, preferably in iffy weather, to put the trawler through her paces.

If you’re happy with the results, you can now address your expectations of the boat one at a time. Keep in mind that you may need to compromise on certain aspects of it. Nonetheless, based on how much customization the manufacturer allows for, you may be able to get a good number of the features you might want it to have.

2. Underestimating the True Cost of Owning a Trawler

This is yet another common mistake most first-time boat buyers make. You may become so fixated on buying a trawler that you end up overlooking the operational costs that come with owning one.

Now, owning a boat is nothing like owning a car. While both pieces of machinery need regular maintenance and occasional repairs to keep them in good running form, the costs associated with each are worlds apart.

A seemingly simple task like cleaning your trawler is nowhere near the price of taking your car to the drive-through carwash to get it spick and span. The process may involve getting experienced scuba divers to clean the underside of the trawler for you. That aside, other costs you have to factor in include:

• Boat insurance
• Fuel and oil changes
• Monthly slip fees at the marina
• Servicing and repair
• Spare parts
• Waxing it every 6 months
• … and several other expenses

Once you add all these up and break the figure into a monthly rate, you’ll be able to get what the true cost of ownership is. Buy a boat that’s within your budget while factoring-in what it will cost to run it.

3. Buying the Wrong Type of Boat

Again, this all comes down to your intended use of the vessel. If you’re looking to buy a liveaboard trawler, you might want to get something with a little more room. Boats can start to feel a little claustrophobic after a while. So, if that’s going to be you and your family’s full time living space, you might want to consider how much livable space the boat in question comes with.

The other thing you need to think about is the overall speed of the boat. A trawler with a full-displacement hull may offer the stability it needs to combat the high seas’ rough waters, but the tradeoff here will be speed. Boats with this type of hull move painfully slow through the water.

Think – A snail riding on a turtle’s back going, “Weeee…” as the wind blows across the snail’s head. In this case, you would be the snail, and the full-displacement-hull trawler would be the turtle. You may even experience the occasional sailboat zooming past you as you trudge along the water.

So, if speed matters a great deal to you, you’ll need to buy the right type of trawler. Perhaps one with a semi-displacement hull instead?

4. Not Involving Your Partner in the Purchase Process

The secret to the successful purchase of a trawler is a lot like relationships themselves: compromise.

To avoid putting your trawler up for sale less than a year after purchasing it, ensure your partner is involved in the decision-making process. You need to find a boat that you’re both happy with; otherwise, that’s just a disaster waiting to happen.

Since you’re both going to be spending considerable amounts of time out at sea, it’s important that boating is an equal passion for both partners. The boat in question needs to have the features and amenities you both want in a great trawler.

Granted, you may not get a vessel that addresses all the individual needs of each party, but it’s about compromise once again. Find a middle ground that makes you both happy.

5. Impulse Buying

Trawling is a lifestyle, not a hobby. If it’s a day cruising boat you’re after, this isn’t it. Trawlers are designed for people who intend to spend most of their time on the water, fishing in the high seas.

So, if you recently attended a boat show and fell in love with that swanky-looking trawler you came across, you might want to pause before you go ahead and purchase it. As a rule of thumb, never sign a contract when you’re at a boat show – tempting as it may be.

Don’t get sucked-in by the artificial pricing of boats, only to end up entangled in a long-term financial commitment simply because you made an impulse decision in the heat of the moment. Understand what trawlers are intended for and take the time to figure out if that’s the lifestyle you envision for yourself for the next five years.

If it is, avoid making the mistakes outlined in the previous sections when choosing the best trawler to buy.

The Ultimate Adventure-Filled Lifestyle

If you’re passionate about the trawling, we recommend getting any of the 5 boats we’ve reviewed in this guide. Ensure that you avoid making the common mistakes made by first-time boat buyers when shopping for the best trawlers.

One thing is for sure, though. You’re about to embark on the most thrilling adventure of your entire life.

In the meantime, if a yacht is more your speed, we’ve reviewed the best yachts . They’re worth checking out.

About Chris

Outdoors, I’m in my element, especially in the water. I know the importance of being geared up for anything. I do the deep digital dive, researching gear, boats and knowhow and love keeping my readership at the helm of their passions.

Categories : Boats

michael mann on August 5, 2021

i really enjoyed your article. the 5 boats you have listed are very ocean capable. i do have a question. how about BERING yachts. i believe their full-displacement and are also ocean crossing capable? can you tell me anything about BERING yachts? and why they didn’t make your list?

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Best Trawler Yacht Brands for Bluewater Adventures

16th nov 2023 by samantha wilson.

The rise of the trawler yacht is one of the most exciting developments in the boating industry in decades. It has opened the world of long-range travel to those who don’t care to sail and whose budget doesn’t run to a superyacht or explorer yacht. It has actually filled a gap that we didn’t even realize we desperately needed. Imagine being able to cruise the world in comfort on a yacht under 60 feet, or even under 40 feet. Or being able to cruise across blue water, with several guests staying aboard, to far-flung destinations on a yacht the size of a cabin cruiser. 

Trawler yachts are almost an oxymoron—the idea of a sturdy and functional fishing trawler being a luxury yacht would once have been laughable. But today that’s exactly what these robust, spacious, and elegant long-range cruisers are. Here we take a look at our pick of some of the best trawler yacht brands on the market;

Written By: Samantha Wilson

Samantha Wilson has spent her entire life on and around boats, from tiny sailing dinghies all the way up to superyachts. She writes for many boating and yachting publications, top charter agencies, and some of the largest travel businesses in the industry, combining her knowledge and passion of boating, travel and writing to create topical, useful and engaging content.

More from: Samantha Wilson

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Trawler Yachts Reviews

Trawler yacht reviews from Motor Boat & Yachting magazine

1 - 20 of 25

Bering 76 sea trial review: The Turkish trawler yacht with globetrotting ambitions

Numarine 22xp review: this long-range trawler explorer is a sign of the times, review price: £3,520,694.00, sirena 68 review: is this the best model yet from the fast-growing turkish yard, review price: £1,630,000.00, beneteau grand trawler 62 review: french boating giant breaks new ground, review price: £2,000,000.00, bénéteau swift trawler 44 review: from the archive, beneteau swift trawler 42 review: cruise control – from the archive, bénéteau swift trawler 50 review: from the archive, absolute 68 navetta review: this bullet train of the seas is much more than a trawler, review price: £2,600,000.00, sirena 64 yacht test: fast trawler shows new turkish yard means business, review price: £2,230,000.00, sundeck 550 yacht test: bespoke italian trawler looks set to turn heads across europe, review price: £1,170,000.00, absolute navetta 73: this rugged trawler is a bouncer among bridesmaids, beneteau swift trawler 47 boat test – 24 hours on board, absolute navetta 48 review – the inland yard’s outstanding offshore cruiser.

Having topped the range with the Navetta 73, Absolute is now looking to tail it with the 48 – its smallest Navetta yet

Azimut Magellano 66 review

The storage throughout the Azimut Magellano 66 is exceptional – if you need any more, you should probably buy a support vessel

Review Price: £2,100,000.00

Cranchi eco trawler 43 review.

The Cranchi Eco Trawler 43 won European Powerboat of the Year in 2015 and comes to market with a host of layout options and IPS engine choices. Jack Haines gets to grip with it in Italy.

Review Price: £412,591.00

First drive of the absolute 58 navetta.

We put the Absolute 58 Navetta to the test at the Genoa Boat Show

Nordhavn 76 review: Behind the wheel of a globe-trotting trawler yacht

Dave Marsh finds the new four-storey boat from Nordhavn surprisingly easy to manoeuvre

Motor Boat & Yachting tests the Cranchi Eco Trawler 53 LD

MBY is one of the first mags to get its hands on the new Cranchi - take a look at out our photos

Nordhavn 78

Sturdy passage maker meets European stlying

Bénéteau Swift Trawler 34

A minnow trawler, but an undoubted crowd-pleaser from the French yard

Review Price: £241,555.00

Latest videos, watch: parker sorrento sea trial: 50-knot cruiser with a killer aft cabin, watch: virtue v10 sea trial: €272k weekender, how to mark your anchor chain: 6 top tips from our expert, watch: galeon 560 fly sea trial - the best galeon flybridge you can buy.

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Solar, Bimini and Departing for Tunisia – Awanui NZ Ep 71

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Nordhavns 7103, 62504 and 6085 en route to the Dana Point and North Palm Beach offices for commissioning

Montenegro to Croatia – Awanui NZ EP 68, Nordhavn’s 1st N51

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Montenegro prop fouling and solar panels arrive – Nordhavn’s 1st N51

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YACHTING: Cruising to Legend

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NORDHAVN 92 WARBIRD: Greenland July 2024

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Model: Nordhavn 71

Hull no: 01

Sales office: Nordhavn Southwest

NORDHAVN 62502

Model: Nordhavn 625

Hull no: 02

Sales office: Nordhavn Southeast

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Model: Nordhavn 52

Hull no: 81

Sales office: Nordhavn Northwest

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Model: Nordhavn 51

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Model: Nordhavn 475

Hull no: 48

Sales office: Nordhavn Northeast

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Model: Nordhavn 41

Hull no: 31

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Hull no: 25

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Model: Nordhavn 60

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Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2024

Dates: October 30 – November 3, 2024 Boat on display: N59 CP and N60 Boats are subject to change without notice. Please call for confirmation of boat availability.

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Congratulations to Doug and Donna Faust, new owners of N4128, which is finishing up commissioning in Rhode Island.

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Welcome to Nordhavn Trawler Yachts

Nordhavn is the world’s most celebrated expedition trawler yachts for adventure boaters of all levels. With models ranging from 41 to 120 feet, there is a Nordhavn perfectly suited to you, no matter what your experience or ambition. Nordhavn trawler yachts provide the safety and comfort necessary for expeditions to the highest latitudes of the globe and coastal day-cruises down the eastern seaboard. Known for robust construction, forward-thinking engineering, luxurious interiors, clever space planning, millions of successful ocean miles traveled and hundreds of happy, dream-fulfilled owners, Nordhavn is the number one name in trawler yachts.

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A Complete Guide to Trawler Boats: All You Need to Know!

If you’re looking for a dedicated fishing vessel for use at sea, the trawler is your best option. This vessel suits ocean-going fishing experiences thanks to its longer length, powerful motors, and deep hull. The trawler is similar to the motor yacht, with a shorter length and a design catering to anglers.

These models are ideal for spending days or weeks out on the water, giving you everything you need for the longest fishing trips. These models come with plenty of storage space for all your gear and room for plenty of fish.

Traditionally, the trawler is a working vessel used by fisheries. However, in recent years, boat manufacturers started producing designs suitable for the private market. Many models come with luxury fittings and living areas aboard the vessel, allowing you to live the life aquatic with all your creature comforts.

Many modern trawlers feature a full-displacement hull with a weighted keel, while others utilize a semi-displacement hull variation. The full-displacement model is ideal for moving through the water rather than on top of the surface. They make seaworthy vessels, but they are slower than the semi-displacement models.

The semi-displacement hull design also provides a low riding position on the water compared to other fishing boats . However, they rely on planning through the water rather than pushing through it. One design element that links both full and semi-displacement models is the distinctive look of the boat.

What Is a Trawler?

A Trawler is an ocean-going fishing boat provides a full or semi-displacement hull ideal with a ballasted design offering you excellent economy as the boat planes through the water.

As a result, they are suitable for long trips, spending days or weeks out on the water between refueling.

The trawler is ideal for slow cursing along the coastline, and it has the capability to reach deepwater offshore. As a result, it’s a great choice for deep-sea fishing, with all the accessories, including fighting chairs, to land large game fish.

The trawler provides the passengers with accommodations in the lower deck, with v-berths extending through the vessel’s bow. The quality of the berth depends on the price tag of the boat. Some trawler models come with fittings and accommodations that are similar to high-end motor yachts, offering a luxurious time out on the water.

Other models may have fewer luxury finishes, but they offer generous spaces for sleeping. The type of finishes and fittings in these boats determine the price tag. Models can cost anywhere from $100,000 to over $1-million, depending on the size of the vessel and the quality of the customizations made to the boat.

Since these boats are large, they don’t suit trailering, and if you need to remove them from the water, you’re going to have to hire a professional transportation service to take the boat to the shipyard for repairs or to other launch areas on the coastline.

Some models may also have the capability to launch a small dinghy to reach the shore, allowing you to leave the boat on the water, anchored in place. There are cranes on board the boat to launch the tender into the water.

The trawler comes in a range of sizes, with 50-foot models being the most common choice. Boats smaller than 50-feet in length won’t offer you the same level of stability as the larger models, and the semi-displacement hull may cause smaller models to bounce up and down on the water –  not ideal if you’re sensitive to seas sickness.

Benefits of Trawlers

The trawler has several benefits as a fishing boat. Here are the top reasons for investing in one of these fishing vessels.

The longer models with full-displacement hulls offer you exceptional stability in the water, even in rough swell conditions. The hull displaces the water, allowing the boat to plane through the water at lower speeds.

Extended Range

The trawler boat is the ideal choice for reaching remote fishing locations and for extended fishing trips where you want to stay out on the ocean for days or weeks at a time. They have a fantastic range, with large fuel tanks and diesel engines providing excellent economy for longer trips at sea.

Live Aboard Accommodations

Trawlers are large boats, and they offer you plenty of room. All models come with liveaboard accommodations for fishing crews. These boats have enough space for up to 12-people or more, depending on the size of the vessel.

The type of accommodations can vary widely depending on the size of the boat, the manufacturing brand, and the price tag of the boat. Some models are like floating hotels, offering you the same luxury accommodations you would expect to find on a high-end motor yacht .

Full Amenities

Most models come with complete kitchens, full bathrooms, and several sleeping quarters. You get luxuries like microwaves and refrigerators for storing your food and perishables. Most models will have four-burner stoves featuring gas-powered operation and onboard gas tanks for power or trickle battery chargers to ensure you never run out of power at sea.

The trawler is second only to the motor yacht in terms of its luxury liveaboard accommodations. Cabin cruisers and some pontoon boats are close competitors, but you don’t get the extended range and offshore capabilities that you get with a trawler.

Plenty of Customizations

The customizations and accessories are huge for trawlers, and you could end up spending as much as 40% of the sticker price on the customizations and fittings you make to your boat. Make sure you enquire about the costs of the customizations with your sales agent. Look for boats offering you the best range of standard customizations to avoid breaking your budget.

Many models come with split-level designs featuring triple stories with captain’s decks on the top, lounge areas in the mezzanine deck, and sleeping accommodations at the bottom of the vessel. The hull will typically also cater to large fish storage areas with ice machines and cold rooms.

Good Fuel Economy

The trawler operates on diesel motors, allowing for better economy and longer trips at sea. The range on these boats is excellent, allowing you to take long seafaring journeys to remote fishing spots.

Sealed Cockpits and Air-Conditioning

You get a captain’s deck positioned high on the boat for a better view of the water and the horizon. Some models come with sealed cockpits, including air conditioning to keep you cool on hot, humid days. All the sleeping quarters will usually include air conditioning units for a comfortable night’s rest out at sea.

Walk-Around Decks

The trawler allows you to reach all sides of the boat, and they come with a walk-around design that’s easy for the angler to navigate as they fight fish swimming under the boat .

Fishing Capabilities

Trawlers come with all the bells and whistles you need for your fishing trips. You get full electronics setups, including GPS and fish finders , as well as communications for reaching the coast guard and other vessels on the water.

These vessels also include fighting chairs, rod holders, rod racks, and plenty of storage for your gear all over the boat.

Disadvantages of Trawlers

The trawler is a fantastic boat for offshore fishing, but it comes with a few limitations some people may see as drawbacks.

No Watersports Capability

The trawler is a purpose-built design for fishing, and you don’t have any options for watersports with this model. Some boats may come with jet skis for reaching land and enjoying water sports or spearfishing out on the open ocean or at reef atolls.

Limited Speed and Handling

The trawler is a slow-moving boat designed for economy and cruising, not performance. The handling is good and smooth in the water. However, don’t expect to make any high-performance turns or reach high speeds with this model.

Not Trailerable

The sheer size of these vessels makes them unsuitable for trailering. You’ll have to organize a slip at your local marina for storing your boat when not in use, which adds to the vessel’s running costs. The motors are also expensive to repair since they have an internally mounted design.

Expensive to Maintain

The maintenance costs for your trawler can get expensive, especially in the luxury models with larger motors. As mentioned, you’ll have extra costs to consider, such as slip fees, when purchasing one of these boats.

Top Trawler Brands and Models

There are dozens of boat manufacturing brands and trawler models to choose from when selecting your boat. Here are our top picks for the best trawlers available.

Grand Banks

Grand Banks is one of the most established brands in the world for fishing trawlers. This company started building boats back in 1956, and they have a huge following in the commercial and private markets. The company was the first to introduce the cruising trawler back in the early 60s, with two of the most popular models of all time, the Chantyman and GB42 coming from its shipyard.

Grand Banks builds its boats in Singapore, and its trawlers offer you semi-displacement hulls, with excellent finishes and quality with the fittings for the vessel. We love the use of teak wood throughout the boat, giving it a premium, classy look.

Grand Banks offers you a range of models with classic styling and excellent performance out on the water when deep-sea fishing. This company has over 70-years of building some of the best trawler boats in the world.

Beneteau Swift

The Beneteau Swift is a top-rated model from one of the world’s best trawler, sailboat, and powerboat brands.

This trawler model includes a semi-displacement hull for better stability and smoother operation at sea, and you get plenty of spacious accommodations on the lower deck and mezzanine level of the boat . Beneteau takes incredible attention to detail with their vessels, giving you a model that’s luxurious and versatile.

Kadey Krogen

This Florida manufacturer has a reputation for building some of the best trawler models in the United States. You get a classic trawler style with modern upgrades to the vessel for a professional fishing experience out on the open ocean.

Kadey Krogen is well-known for its Pure Displacement Hulls (PHD) technology, incorporating it in their designs for the last 40-years. You get a boat offering you superior stability at sea, no rocking, and clean, smooth planning through all water conditions.

This manufacturing brand has its headquarter in Dana Point, California. They are the premier shipbuilder on the west coast when it comes to making top-quality fishing trawlers that offer you everything you need for deep-sea fishing trips. The company builds its yachts in Taiwan, and they have a reputation for endurance on the open ocean.

Nordhavn builds its boats to cross entire oceans, allowing for the longest fishing trips. Hop in the boat in California and take it to Hawaii or Tahiti on a single trip. Nordhavn has a reputation for building technically perfect vessels, focusing on excellent engineering and design.

The Selene is another fantastic choice for your trawler. The company has its headquarters in China, but don’t let that fool you – these boats are functional, with high-quality design and materials. The Selene is available in a range of lengths from 42′ to 92′, with nine models available.

You get excellent standard features with this boat, including stern and bow thrusters, a lightweight fiberglass design, and easy maintenance.

Wrapping Up

The trawler is a great choice for dedicated anglers looking for an offshore model. Due to the price of these boats, many private owners choose to opt for smaller models like cabin cruisers . You get the same functionality as the trawler with better handling and a much lower price tag.

The trawler is a good choice if you’re thinking about starting an offshore deep seas fishing company where you take people out onto the water for fishing trips. The trawler is the ideal model for these excursions, allowing tour operators to accommodate as many people as possible for a profitable fishing trip.

However, if you’re a private owner, you can use the trawler for a range of activities, from deep-sea fishing to cruising between islands in the Caribbean or the Keys.

John is an experienced journalist and veteran boater. He heads up the content team at BoatingBeast and aims to share his many years experience of the marine world with our readers.

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11 best Trawler Boats for Long-Distance Cruising

Are you looking for the perfect companion for your next long-distance cruise? Look no further! We have put together a comprehensive list of the 11 best trawler boats available, so you can find your ideal boat.

Whether you’re looking for a sturdy and reliable vessel, or something more luxurious and stylish, this list has it all. Read on to learn more about these incredible trawler boats and find the perfect boat for your next journey.

Table of Contents

Kadey-Krogen Yachts

If you’re looking for a trawler boat that will take you on a comfortable, long-distance cruising journey, Kadey-Krogen Yachts is a brand you’ll want to explore.

This company has been building top-quality trawlers for over four decades and has built up a loyal following of happy cruisers.

• One of the reasons Kadey-Krogen Yachts is so popular is the brand’s focus on livability and comfort.

The boats are designed with spacious and comfortable living areas, making them ideal for extended trips.

You’ll find plenty of storage space, well-appointed galley areas, and luxurious sleeping accommodations onboard Kadey-Krogen trawlers.

• Another standout feature of Kadey-Krogen Yachts is their focus on safety and durability.

These boats are built to last, with robust hulls and advanced safety features like collision bulkheads, watertight compartments, and sturdy handrails throughout.

If you’re looking for a trawler boat that is both comfortable and capable, a Kadey-Krogen Yacht may be the perfect fit for you. With several models to choose from, you’ll be able to find the right boat to suit your cruising style and preferences.

For those seeking a truly world-class trawler boat, Nordhavn is the answer. The brand has built a reputation for producing luxurious vessels that can take on even the most demanding conditions.

Nordhavn’s lineup ranges from 40 to 120 feet, but regardless of the size, you can always expect a top-quality yacht that is both durable and efficient.

The company is renowned for its hull design, which has been tested and proven to withstand rough seas.

• One of the standout models in the Nordhavn range is the Nordhavn 60. This is a perfect boat for extended cruising with family and friends.

The boat features a spacious and well-appointed interior with multiple living areas, including a fully equipped galley and salon.

• Additionally, the Nordhavn 60 is equipped with all the latest navigation and safety systems, ensuring a smooth and secure journey.

With its high-quality construction, modern features, and timeless design, the Nordhavn 60 is a great choice for anyone looking for a premium trawler boat.

• The Lowdown on Trawler Boating for Beginners
• Which Boat is Right for You: Trawler or Motor?
• Top 11 Pontoon Boats for Serious Anglers
• Beneteau Boat: 11 Things You Should Know

Grand Alaskan

The Grand Alaskan trawler is a popular choice for those seeking a spacious and comfortable long-distance cruising vessel.

Built with quality materials and meticulous attention to detail, these boats offer a range of sizes and configurations to fit different needs and preferences.

The Grand Alaskan 60 is one of the largest models in their lineup and offers a luxurious living space with four staterooms, four heads, a large salon, and a fully equipped galley.

The yacht also has a spacious flybridge, which provides ample seating for guests to enjoy the view while cruising.

Additionally, the boat features a well-designed engine room with excellent access to all components for easy maintenance.

The Grand Alaskan 60 is powered by twin diesel engines , which can provide a cruising speed of up to 12 knots and a range of over 1,000 nautical miles.

With a comfortable ride and impressive fuel efficiency, the Grand Alaskan is a perfect option for long-distance cruising and exploring new horizons.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a long-term liveaboard vessel, the Grand Alaskan trawler offers all the comfort and performance you need to make your cruising dreams a reality.

Ranger Tugs

For those seeking a more compact trawler boat, the Ranger Tugs are a great option. These vessels range in size from 21 to 31 feet and are perfect for those who want a cozy yet functional boat for long-distance cruising.

Despite their smaller size, the Ranger Tugs have a lot to offer. They have efficient engines that are easy to maintain, as well as spacious cabins that make them comfortable for extended stays.

The boats also have excellent maneuverability, allowing for easy docking in tight spaces.

• One of the standout features of the Ranger Tugs is their use of solar power.

Many of their models come equipped with solar panels, which not only reduce your carbon footprint but also allow you to stay out on the water for longer without worrying about your batteries running out of charge.

• Some popular models in the Ranger Tug lineup include the Ranger R-27 and the Ranger R-31.

The R-27 has a spacious cockpit and can sleep up to six people, while the R-31 has a more luxurious interior with a master stateroom and a separate guest room.

If you’re looking for a smaller trawler boat that doesn’t skimp on comfort and functionality, the Ranger Tugs are definitely worth considering.

Here is a good video to walk you through Ranger tug 23

Passport Yachts

If you’re in search of a trawler boat that offers elegance, luxury, and unmatched performance, Passport Yachts is definitely worth checking out.

Founded in 1979, this US-based manufacturer produces yachts that are known for their superior craftsmanship and attention to detail.

• One of the most popular models from Passport Yachts is the Passport 470. With its beautiful teak interior, spacious saloon, and comfortable cabins, this boat is perfect for long-distance cruising.

The boat is powered by a reliable Yanmar diesel engine and is equipped with top-of-the-line electronics, including radar, GPS, and autopilot.

• Another model worth considering is the Passport Vista. This boat offers exceptional stability, even in rough waters, thanks to its deep-V hull and advanced stabilizer system.

It also features a large swim platform and spacious cockpit, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Overall, Passport Yachts is a top choice for those who want a trawler boat that combines style, performance, and comfort.

Here is a good video to walk you through Passport Yachts 545

Selene Yachts

If you’re in the market for a trawler boat that can take you on long-distance cruises, Selene Yachts is one brand worth considering.

Their yachts are designed for ocean-crossing and are equipped with modern navigation and communication systems for a safe and comfortable voyage.

• One standout feature of Selene Yachts is their fuel efficiency. Their boats are designed to be more fuel-efficient than traditional trawlers, which can save you money in the long run.

The yachts are also built to withstand rough seas, thanks to their sturdy construction and reinforced hulls.

• Selene Yachts offers a range of models, from the 38-foot Selene 38 to the 92-foot Selene 92 Ocean Explorer. Each model is designed with spacious interiors and comfortable living areas, perfect for long stays at sea.

They also have a variety of customization options available, so you can design your yacht to fit your specific needs and preferences.

Overall, Selene Yachts is a top choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient trawler boat for long-distance cruising.

American Tug

If you’re looking for a trawler boat that is both comfortable and easy to handle, the American Tug might just be your perfect companion.

With a range of over 1,000 nautical miles and a cruising speed of up to 17 knots, this vessel is designed for long-distance cruising .

• One of the most notable features of the American Tug is its hull design, which allows for a smooth ride even in choppy waters.

It also has a spacious and well-appointed interior, complete with a full galley, a large salon, and comfortable sleeping accommodations.

• In addition to its impressive performance and amenities, the American Tug is also built to last.

Constructed from high-quality materials, including a hand-laid fiberglass hull and a solid teak and holly interior, this vessel is both durable and beautiful.

Whether you’re looking to take on the open ocean or simply enjoy a leisurely cruise through your favorite waterways, the American Tug is a top choice for trawler boat enthusiasts.

Fleming Yachts

Fleming Yachts is another popular name in the world of trawler boats. Known for their high-quality craftsmanship, Fleming Yachts has been creating exceptional vessels for over three decades.

• Their flagship model, the Fleming 55, is a top pick for long-distance cruising. This yacht features a sleek, elegant design and offers all the amenities needed for extended journeys.

With its spacious and comfortable interior, the Fleming 55 is perfect for couples or families looking for a luxurious and reliable boat for extended voyages.

• Another standout model from Fleming Yachts is the Fleming 58.

This boat offers even more space and amenities than the Fleming 55, making it a great choice for larger groups or those looking for a bit more comfort on their long-distance cruise.

Fleming Yachts’ commitment to quality and attention to detail is evident in every aspect of their boats.

From the finely crafted woodwork to the high-end finishes, Fleming Yachts produces vessels that are built to last and designed for maximum comfort and enjoyment on the water.

Krogen Express

The Krogen Express is the perfect combination of classic design and modern engineering. With a sleek and elegant exterior, this trawler boat has exceptional fuel economy and cruising speed .

The Krogen Express comes in three different sizes: 49′, 52′, and 56′. Each model has an interior layout that is designed for comfort, with a spacious salon and galley, as well as luxurious staterooms.

• The Krogen Express has a unique hull design that delivers exceptional performance and stability even in rough seas.

With a cruising speed of 16 knots and a range of 2,000 nautical miles, the Krogen Express is a perfect choice for long-distance cruising.

The yacht’s shallow draft also allows for cruising in more secluded anchorages, perfect for a private escape.

• The Krogen Express boasts advanced technology, including a digital helm display, integrated entertainment systems, and a robust power management system.

The boat also has exceptional safety features, such as high bulwarks, a Portuguese bridge, and wide walkways that provide easy and secure passage from bow to stern.

The Lanty trawler boat is a smaller vessel, making it an ideal option for couples or solo cruisers looking to explore the open water.

• Despite its size, the Lanty is still equipped with all the necessary amenities for comfortable cruising, including a full galley and comfortable sleeping quarters.

This boat also boasts excellent fuel efficiency, allowing it to travel long distances without having to refuel often.

• The Lanty is also designed with ease of use in mind, featuring a single-engine setup and a joystick for easy docking .

One unique aspect of the Lanty is its customizability. Owners have the option to choose from a variety of layout options and finishes to make the boat fit their specific needs and preferences.

Defever Cruisers

If you’re looking for a trawler boat that can handle long-distance cruising with ease, you might want to consider a Defever Cruiser.

These boats were designed by Arthur Defever, a naval architect who is known for his expertise in designing long-range cruisers.

• The Defever Cruiser line is known for its seaworthiness, durability, and spacious interiors.

These boats typically feature a semi-displacement hull , which allows for comfortable cruising at slower speeds while still providing good fuel efficiency.

• One popular model in the Defever Cruiser line is the 44 Offshore Cruiser, which features a spacious interior with two staterooms, two heads, and a large salon.

The boat’s large aft deck and flybridge provide ample space for entertaining and taking in the views while cruising.

• Another popular model is the Defever 49 Pilothouse, which offers more living space and an additional stateroom compared to the 44 Offshore Cruiser.

The boat’s pilothouse provides a commanding view and can be used as an additional living space or office.

My Cruiser Life Magazine

The Best Boat for the Great Loop in 2023: Your 6 Boat Options

Embarking on this nautical quest called the Great Loop demands more than wanderlust alone. Selecting the optimal vessel to navigate the Loop’s diverse waterways makes all the difference on this marathon route. Whether you covet the comforts of a spacious trawler, prefer the performance of an agile cruiser or need maximum versatility to “trailer hop” inland rivers, the choice of boat profoundly impacts the journey. In today’s post, I give my recommendations the perfect Great Loop boat.

Table of Contents

6 best boat types for the great loop, what is the great loop, what is involved with the great loop boating adventure, classic trawlers, fast trawlers and downeasts, tug style trawlers, cruisers and motor yachts, power catamarans, the boat you’ve got, great loop size limits, comfortable cabin aboard and long-term living space, engine choices: gas vs. diesel, single vs. twin, 1. draft and height limitations, 2. fuel range and efficiency, 3. living quarters, 4. navigability and handling, 5. type of boat, 6. accessibility and safety features, 8. personal preferences and experience level, 9. research and planning, boat requirements for the great loop, which is your best boat for the great loop, best boat for the great loop faqs.

• Unconventional Boats

The Great Loop stands as one of the premier long-term boating adventures in North America, and arguably, across the globe. Spanning over 6,000 miles, this journey offers boaters an experience akin to a cross-country RV road trip, but on water. It presents a unique opportunity to view the countryside through a different lens, as you navigate through a mix of seaways, canals, and rivers at a relaxed pace.

Let’s explore the ideal boats to embark on this remarkable journey.

Let’s get this out of the way – what’s the Great Loop in the first place?

The Great Loop is an adventure for recreational boaters that takes you on a giant circuit of the eastern half of the United States and Canada . It’s the joining of many smaller waterways, open water stretches, rivers, and canals to make an entire journey that’s about 6,000 nautical miles long. 

Where you begin and end your Great Loop journey usually depends on where you buy or keep your vessel.

Here’s an overview using Norfolk, Virginia, as the starting point.

• Norfolk northbound through Chesapeake Bay, through the C&D Canal, and seaward on Delaware Bay to Cape May, New Jersey.
• Northbound along the Atlantic coast of New Jersey to New York harbor.
• North on the Hudson River to upstate New York. From here, you have several choices depending on how one wants to transit the Great Lakes and how much of the Canadian Heritage Canals one would like to cruise.
• Westbound through the Erie Canal.
• West through the Great Lakes to Chicago.
• South from Chicago through the inland rivers to the Gulf Coast.
• Eastbound along the Gulf Coast to Florida, then southbound on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway.
• Either through the Okeechobee Waterway in south Florida or around the tip of the state, through the Florida Keys.
• North from south Florida on the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) back to Norfolk.

There are many choices to make the Great Loop your own adventure.

Loopers usually put between 5,000 and 7,000 miles under their keels while making the trip. However, it’s not a race, and there are plenty of opportunities to make side trips and adventures off the main route.

For example, the Downeast Loop is an extension that adds Maine, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edwards Island. The St. Lawrence Seaway will then take you west to the Great Lakes by way of Montreal. Another good example is extending your trip on the south end by adding an adventure in the Islands of The Bahamas.

For the most part, the Great Loop is a motorboat adventure . There are many open water spaces where you might sail, but it’s often constrained to a narrow navigable channel, making sailing much less appealing. In other words, even sailboats wind up motoring for most of the trip. 

Furthermore, the trip transits canals and waterways with many bridge spans, both fixed and opening. The fewer bridges you have to have open for you, the easier your trip. Many fixed bridges mean you’ll have to take the mast off for long sections of the trip.

The trip spans many rural areas, interspersed with small towns and a handful of big cities. Many nights you’ll be anchored or docked in the middle of nowhere. Other times, you’ll have a new city to explore and check out. 

Your boat should suit both styles. You will want the best family boat that is comfortable to live on, with sleeping, bathroom, and cooking facilities that you and your crew find comfortable. Yes, you can do the Loop in an open go-fast boat–but you will miss what many consider the best parts of the Loop. 

Six Best Great Loop Boat Options By Type of Boat

There are too many makes and models of boats in the world for anyone to make a specific recommendation here. Instead, here is a list of six types of boats you’ll find doing the Loop and what makes them well suited for this particular adventure. 

Remember, this is anything but an all-inclusive list. There are hundreds of boat makes out there, hundreds more that aren’t built anymore but can be bought used, and even more when you include custom and one-off designs. These lists are provided simply as a starting point for your research!

The classic trawler is basically the power version of a sailboat–slow-moving, heavy, and economical to operate. They have been around forever; tons were built in the 1970s and 1980s, many in Taiwan. That means that the design is time-tested–they are good-looking and seaworthy. Plus, you can readily find them on the used market for reasonable prices. Most have a maximum speed of about 10 knots.

The popular cruising blog Scho and Jo have set out and completed the Loop on their Albin trawler. Check out their Great Loop expenses for information on the adventure and how it’s done. For more about their boat, check out their boat tour.

Examples of Classic Trawlers:

• Monk 36 (no longer built)
• Grand Banks
• Camino Troll (no longer built)
• Nordhavn 40

The fast trawler is a classic one with a modern hull. Thanks to their improved hull design, they’re capable of faster speeds but use a lot of gas going fast. The best thing about them is probably the simple fact that they can do both comfortably–go slowly and economically or cruise faster (about 15 knots) while still giving a nice ride.

Examples of Fast Trawlers and Downeast Boats:

• Beneteau Swift Trawlers

What was once a unique niche in the boating world has caught on, and quite a few companies are now making tugboat-looking trawlers. They’re sportier than the traditional trawler and have an aesthetic that looks right at home on the rivers of the Great Loop.

Examples of Tugs Include:

• Kadey Krogen
• Lord Nelson Victory Tug (no longer made)

A cruiser is built on a planing hull to go faster. That means more miles per day, fewer nights at anchor, and more fuel consumption while doing it. 

There are many sizes and styles that are appropriate for the Loop, so the key is to find the layout that is most comfortable for you. The two most popular styles include express cruisers and aft-cabin cruisers. 

Examples of cruisers and motor yachts include:

• Sea Ray (many of the best models for the Loop are no longer made)
• Cruiser Yachts
• Bayliner Motoryachts (no longer built)
• Hatteras Cruisers (no longer built)

Power catamarans are popular for the same reason that sail cats are. Thanks to their increased interior volume, two hulls make for a more comfortable living space. Your beam should be less than 23 feet, as the Trent Severn Waterway in Canada limits this. Still, that leaves several interesting power cats that would make fantastic Loop boats. 

Examples of power cats that would be good when boating the Great Loop:

• PDQ 34 Power Catamaran (no longer built)
• Endeavour 440 TrawlerCat

Finally, it has to be mentioned that the best boat is always the boat you’ve got. Lin and Larry Pardey once famously said, “Go small, and go now.” If the Loop is on your bucket list, it’s better to find a boat you can get your hands on that will suit you well enough to travel and enjoy the ride. Don’t spend years saving up for a “maybe adventure.”

Examples of unconventional Looper boats:

• Jet skis that camp along the way
• Open runabouts, sport boats, and fishing boats
• Sailboats–just take the mast off and motor like a trawler!
• Trailerable boats that do it in sections–a trailerable boat lets you do a section and then tow the boat to the next section to cruise at your leisure

What Features Make Good Looper Boats?

So, how do you ever choose the right boat for the Loop? Here are some thoughts on what features make the best Looper boats. 

The limits for your perfect Looper boat will be based on its physical dimensions. According to the Loop Cruiser’s Association, the average looper boat is 39.5 feet long, with more than half between 35 and 45 feet. But this doesn’t tell the whole story, as you must consider each vessel’s dimension.

Air Draft (Bridge Clearance or Height Above Water)

The most limiting fixture on the Loop is a fixed railroad bridge in Chicago that will block any vessel taller than 19 feet, 6 inches. 

But, if you want to do the entire Erie Canal, two bridges offer only 15 feet, 6 inches. Another bridge in downtown Chicago is 17 feet. So, the Loop has lower limits, but most can be gone around by bigger boats. 

Four feet or less of draft is ideal and will mean the fewest problems–although caution is still warranted in many areas. Draft is how deep the hull sits in the water and dictates the minimum water depth for a boat . Any deeper than that, and you will need to be extra cautious. Boats with six-foot drafts have reportedly done it, but few recommend it.

The width of your boat is usually limited to about 16 feet due only to marina slips. 

Catamarans with 23 feet or less can make the trip but require T-heads at most marinas. As a result, finding slips on this trip will be difficult, and finding a place to haul out for boat maintenance is even harder. In addition, there are sections where you’ll need to take a slip occasionally, so anchoring isn’t always an option. 

There’s no limit to length. Some yachts up to 70 feet have made the journey, but it’s a tight fit and most boats that long won’t make it under the bridges. Most Looper boats are under 50 feet, after all, for many reasons.

Think of the Great Loop as an RV adventure where you’re taking your home with you. To that end, realize you’ll be spending a lot of time living aboard your boat. Therefore, the boat should be comfortable, with indoor and outdoor living space and all the amenities you’d want or need. 

Here’s a list of things most people want their boat equipped with when they set off on the Great Loop. Many of these are similar to the considerations people make when living on a sailboat , but some are quite different.

• A comfortable bed, usually an “island queen” (not a v-berth)
• A large galley (kitchen) with plenty of cooking space and the appliances they’re used to (fridge, microwave, coffee maker, stove, oven, etc.)
• A comfortable living room (salon) that has a good view, lots of light, and plenty of ventilation
• An outdoor patio (cockpit) area for open-air dining, socializing, and relaxing
• A descent-sized bathroom area with a separate shower
• Air conditioning and heating (which may require a generator if you plan to anchor overnight extensively)
• Inside and outside helm positions (upper deck on a trawler)

Tankage refers to your boat’s storage space for liquids–water, fuel, and sewage. The larger the tanks are, the longer you can stay away from marinas for refills or pump-outs. 

The Loop has several long stretches through the inland river system that go hundreds of miles between facilities and services. Therefore, your boat should have a fuel range of at least 450 nautical miles and hold enough water for at least a week. 

Some river stretches have fewer gasoline sellers, meaning gas-powered boats need a greater range than diesel boats. They’ll need about 450 miles of range, whereas diesel boats can get by with less.

Beyond that, gas and diesel engines will both work fine on the Loop. Generally, the most popular trawlers and boats of this size come with diesels, which are praised for their longevity and reliable, simple operation. In addition, diesel is safer on a boat because it is less explosive, which could lower your insurance premiums.

Likewise, having a single or twin screw boat is a matter of preference. Single-engine boats can make the journey without problems, but two engines give you redundancy should something go wrong with one and better maneuverability in tight spaces. But, of course, operating and maintenance costs are higher with two engines.

How to Find the Best Boat for You for Sailing the Great Loop

The ideal boat will vary based on personal preferences, budget, and specific requirements for the journey. Here are key considerations to help you find the best boat for your Great Loop adventure:

• Draft: The Great Loop has areas with shallow waters, especially in places like the western rivers and parts of the Intracoastal Waterway. A boat with a shallow draft (ideally less than 5 feet) will have more flexibility and fewer navigation concerns.
• Air Draft: Bridges with fixed heights are a consideration along the Great Loop. To avoid detours, your boat’s air draft (the height from the waterline to the highest fixed point on the boat) should be less than 19 feet, though lower is often better to accommodate all routes.
• Opt for a fuel-efficient boat that has a range of at least 300 miles to comfortably reach fueling stations along the Loop without anxiety, considering both the boat’s fuel capacity and its consumption rate.
• Comfort is key for the long journey. Look for boats that offer adequate living space, a functional galley, comfortable sleeping quarters, and sufficient storage. The size and amenities should match your tolerance for space constraints and your lifestyle needs.
• Choose a boat that handles well in various water conditions. Both inland rivers and lakes, as well as coastal sections of the Loop, can present challenges like currents, tides, and weather changes.
• Trawlers, Sailboats (with a retractable mast for bridges), and Motor Yachts are popular choices because they balance living space, fuel efficiency, and navigability.
• Sailboats can offer the advantage of wind power but consider the need to lower the mast for certain sections of the Loop.
• Catamarans are another option, offering stability, shallow draft, and spacious living areas, but be mindful of their beam (width) and how it may limit access to certain marinas or slips.
• Look for boats with easy access to the bow and stern, strong handholds, and a cockpit or helm that offers good visibility and protection from the elements.
• Safety features should include reliable navigation and communication systems, life-saving equipment, and possibly a dinghy for exploring shallow or narrow areas.
• Consider both the purchase price and the ongoing costs, including maintenance, fuel, marina fees, and potential upgrades. Buying a used boat can be a cost-effective option, but ensure a thorough inspection to assess its condition and suitability for the Loop.
• Your comfort with the boat’s operation, maintenance requirements, and overall feel is crucial. Choose a boat that fits your level of boating experience or one that you’re willing and able to learn to handle confidently.
• Join forums and groups, such as America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association (AGLCA), to gain insights from experienced Loopers.
• Consider renting or chartering different types of boats for short trips to gain firsthand experience before making a decision.
• Size/Draft: Boats should generally be less than 60 feet with a draft of 6 feet or under to navigate the various locks, rivers, and waterways along the route.
• Propulsion: Twin engines or a single engine with a bow or stern thruster provides the best maneuverability and redundancy for covering long distances.
• Fuel Capacity: A range of 350-400 miles between refueling is recommended to have a buffer given the distances between marinas in some regions.
• Accommodations: Comfortable sleeping quarters, a functional galley, and enclosed head are needed for multi-day and multi-week trips.
• Hull Type: Displacement hull trawlers, cruisers, and motor yachts are well-suited for the journey. Planing hulls can complete it but will take a fuel efficiency hit at slower canal speeds.
• Navigation: GPS chartplotters, radar, depth finders, and other instruments and marine electronics for navigating varying conditions.
• Operation: Vessel and systems should be completely reliable and redundant where possible given the several thousand mile journey.
• Insurance/Documentation: Vessel documentation and insurance is required for coastal, Great Lakes portions.

Hopefully, this article has provided some ideas and examples of what your best Great Loop boat might be. Beyond a few hard limitations, it’s a matter of taste and style. There’s no right or wrong answer–you’ll often see many unexpected vessels doing the Loop. 

If you’re considering the Loop, check out the America’s Great Loop Cruisers Association for more details.

What size boat is best for the Great Loop?

There’s no set size limit for length, but all boats looking to complete the Loop must pass under a low fixed bridge in the Chicago area. If your boat is more than 19 feet, 6 inches above the water, thou shall not pass.

What is the largest boat to complete the Great Loop?

Some people have reported that boats as long as 70 feet have completed the Loop. But taking a vessel of this size is not recommended, as you must navigate numerous tight locks and low bridges along the route. Most Loopers choose boats less than 50 feet long.

What is the smallest recommended boat for the Great Loop?

The smallest boat is the one that you’re comfortable on. Jet skis have completed the Loop, but they’re limited to staying in hotels or camping. It’s best to have a boat that will be comfortable to live on for the better part of a year. Most people want a boat at least 35 feet long to do that.

What is the average time to complete the Great Loop?

Most cruisers take about a year to do the Loop. Several factors affect this plan, and it’s always an individual choice. Generally, you’ll be northbound in the spring to be westbound through the Great Lakes in the summer. Then you “fall down” the rivers in the autumn so that you can over-winter in Florida. But many people take breaks, leave their boats in storage, and complete the Loop in sections. Furthermore, many folks want to take their time and enjoy the scenery. It’s not a race, after all.

Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay.

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What Is The Best Liveaboard Trawler?

I spoke with one of our brokers last week and we got around to talking about couples looking for a trawler yacht to live aboard. It is a well-worn topic of discussion on many of the trawler forums, as people dream about combining their love of boats and the water with their “regular” life.

I suspect anyone who enjoys cruising has pondered this on occasion. What would it be like to live on a boat full time, balancing the romance of living on the water with the realities of a job, career, and the rest of life “back in the world?”

I will say at the outset that in all likelihood there is an ideal liveaboard for you. Granted, the word “ideal” implies “perfect” and that doesn’t really apply to any boat. However, if one honestly evaluates one’s situation and liveaboard needs, in all probability there is at least one yacht that matches those requirements perfectly, or close enough to be considered an ideal liveaboard.

Given the inevitable compromises, my short list of ideal liveaboard trawlers would now include:

• Northern Marine 64
• One of the DeFever pilothouse trawlers
• One of the custom trawlers that occasionally come on the market, such as the Park Isle 57

There is, of course, some latitude as to what constitutes “living aboard.” I have a friend with a house in Annapolis , yet he and his wife go down to Hopetown in the Bahamas every winter for six months to live on their sailboat during the winter. They are living aboard during that time for sure, even if it is not their full-time, year-round home.

On the flip side, I know people who have only one home, their boat, and they live full time in Boston Harbor. Every fall the liveaboards on their dock wrap their boats in opaque plastic sheeting to keep the boats relatively warm during the winter months. The water on the dock is turned off, and they also need to deal with pumping out holding tanks. But living on the water more than makes up for the obvious inconveniences.

(Below: A group of Krogen trawler owners tie up together.)

I know other couples who lived for several years at a marina on the coast of Connecticut, and they, too, enjoyed the experience and lifestyle. Boat living can be found in many places, and the quality of life during the boating season more than makes up for the down time when it is not quite as romantic.

A friend came up with a concept some years ago about what he calls the two types of boaters: the “Movers” and the “Stayers.” The movers are always cruising and never put down roots. That title aptly describes a couple on an older Grand Banks who always seem on the move. They have a land home in Southern California, yet in all the years I’ve known them, they never leave their Grand Banks. It is their home.

There are also dozens of other cruisers, especially here on the East Coast, who take off after the fall boat shows in Annapolis, and head down to Florida on their trawlers. Some eventually arrive in Marathon in the Florida Keys, as one destination, and settle in for the winter, the trawler never leaving the dock until the following spring. They are stayers for sure, as they live on their boat, but only move when it is to their next place of semi-permanent residence. And this cycle continues, year after year, until some life change happens, or they burn out.

I’ve lived on a boat several times in my lifetime, and each time it took place at a time and place where it was not only attractive but utterly doable. Working in downtown Seattle made it easy to live on Lake Union or even Lake Washington, not to mention the nearby marinas on Bainbridge Island. A quick ferry trip to the downtown area is a wonderful way to start the day, especially compared to sitting in traffic crossing one of the bridges from Bellevue or Kirkland.

In Annapolis, I lived for a time at City Dock, in Spa Creek and the heart of downtown. Later, I was one of the residents on F Dock at a marina on Back Creek, a liveaboard dock in a marina where we all got to be friends and look out for one another. During one hurricane’s storm surge, we had an all-day-and-night dock party. As the waters from the storm surge came in, we kept adjusting our dock lines. It was fun to share the experience of seeing the dock go a foot then two under water, dock lines running down and disappearing into the water. Ah, the good old days.

(Below: Friends gather on the cockpit of a Nimbus 405 at a marina. It's common to become friends with other boaters docked in the same place.)

I’ve had similarly unique experiences while living aboard in Florida and New Jersey, each with its own issues, such as having to gang up weekly all water hoses during the winter months to refill our water tanks, as the water on the dock was shut off until spring. Yup, definitely a unique experience.

And getting one’s holding tanks pumped out also comes with challenges, depending on season and location. Sometimes it is best to use the marina facilities when it is off season, while more and more waterfront towns offer seasonal mobile pump out services run by the harbormaster.

Let’s look at some of the subjective criteria of what might be important to you thinking of a liveaboard trawler. I can’t count the number of times at a boat show I’ve heard someone remark to a spouse or friend, “Now, I could live on this boat!” I’m sure we have all said that at one time or another.

Keep in mind each of these points must be considered in the context of one’s situation, which will vary from person to person. But it is a worthy discussion for anyone planning this lifestyle change.

So, just what to consider for a trawler (or for that matter, any boat, sail or power) as a potential full-time home? On one hand we may be talking about people who are retired, Jimmy Buffet types who can get by just fine with a couple of cut off jeans and a handful of faded t-shirts, and a sweatshirt or two for a wardrobe. And this goes all the way to the other end of the spectrum, professionals who commute to work each day, or work from the boat much of the time.

Some people may be active members of the community, with interests other than boating, and have friends and relatives they entertain on a regular basis. Many people have cars or some form of transportation other than a couple of rusty bicycles chained to a nearby piling.

These people may be a small family that goes south in the winter months and return in the spring to resume work at seasonal jobs they enjoy and find fulfilling. Or they may be like one couple I knew, both doctors, one a surgeon, who live very well indeed on their large Seaton trawler yacht that gives them their downtown waterfront experience, with vacations on the boat up to British Columbia.

Accessibility—The Quality/Convenience of Being Easy to Use

Not all boats are a good match for one’s home dock or pier. While it may seem obvious to mention this, but the simple act of getting on and off the boat should be easy. In places where floating docks rule, a boat with side access, such as a side gate into the aft cockpit, is ideal for stepping up and aboard from a floating dock.

But the rest of us must contend with tides and other issues when dealing with fixed docks. So, unless there are several ways of boarding, depending on height factors between dock and boat, this can become, at the very least, inconvenient. If you have a dog, and the boat is not always lined up with the home dock, it can be a nightmare assisting a large or ailing dog on and off the boat. And having to deal with this on a regular basis gets old quickly. Some boats make it easy to deal with. Swim platforms, side doors in cockpit and side deck, even side door access to the Portuguese bridge. (That is particulalrly appreciated in dramatic tidal regions, such as Nova Scotia.)

And consider carrying groceries, pets, clothes from the cleaners, luggage, or other things that are heavy or unwieldy. It really helps if one’s home dock accommodates the boat.

Now let’s add weather to the access consideration. What about when there is a light dusting of snow on the dock…or inches? Early morning frost can become a safety issue. Many trawlers do not have the protection of covered side decks or cockpit to help shield people from getting wet when it is raining. The covered cockpits on some boats, such as the Grand Banks Europa, Krogen yachts, Hampton Endurance , and Northwest Yachts , are so much better to deal with than boats that ensure you are dripping wet until safely inside the boat, along with soggy grocery bags.

(Below: A Meridian Sedan Bridge with cockpit and bridge coverings.)

On the many trawler designs that follow the Grand Banks Classic style, there is no protection from the elements whatsoever. If it is raining, you must step aboard in the rain, transfer your groceries and packages aboard, in the rain, and then put them inside the boat, while the rain pours inside the boat from the open doorway. That is not high on my list of acceptable qualities.

Open to the World—Let the Sun Shine In

One pet peeve of mine involves all the battle wagon trawlers that look like they are ready to tackle Cape Horn. They have dogged doors, sealed windows, and lack any form of ventilation besides the onboard HVAC. It is a shame to buy a trawler for a home and not be able to open to fresh air when the weather is nice.

Walking the docks at boat shows on a beautiful day and seeing trawlers running air conditioning because no hatches or windows can be opened, seems counter to how I want to live on a boat.

To me, the joy of living aboard is being part of the outside world, such as when the breeze is warm, and the smell of fresh evergreens and flowers is in the air. I only wish I could invite you aboard our power catamaran and let you take a shower in the master stateroom head. Located in the bow of the starboard hull, with the large overhead hatch open, was the most delicious experience. When we were on the Gulf Coast of Florida, tropical breezes would surround you while taking a shower, with great water pressure and the sun shining down on you. It was hands down one of the most enjoyable and liberating experiences on a boat. It simply does not get any better than that. My friends with a Fleming motoryacht remind me of this all the time.

Opening the boat in nice weather and sunny skies is a delightful aspect of living on a boat. With the pilothouse doors open, any forward hatches and ports open, and the saloon windows and door open into the aft cockpit, it is a very pleasant experience. Even if one lives in the Pacific Northwest, if your boat has covered side decks and a covered cockpit that keeps the spring rain out when you have the boat open, this is healthy and good for the soul.

Living Spaces—Room to Live

Most traditional trawler yachts had few choices where one can sit down and relax. That space is usually on the saloon settee, the only place to sit and read a book or cruising guide, pay bills, eat meals, and take apart a faulty autopilot head. After three months of living on our 36-foot Downeast cruiser, I tired of having only one place to sit. Nap, read, work on the computer, eat meals, talk with family on the phone, visit with other boaters who stop by, and many other activities. It made an impression for the future.

Some trawlers have a pilothouse, some with chart tables, so there is often a place to use as a kind of desk. One can sit comfortably, use the laptop or tablet, have devices not far away (perhaps a printer in a locker), and take care of business without having to transform other spaces for this purpose.

For me, having a comfortable and quiet place to work and write is an important requirement and would drive part of my boat selection process. This may not be as important to you.

I think having dedicated seating is a good thing, such as the Ekornes chair in the saloon, reserved for reading and/or taking a nap.

I also like the ability to make the bed without crazy gymnastics. Being able to make one’s bed in the morning is not just a feel-good thing. Crumpled bed sheets on corner berths drives my wife crazy, when the only way to properly make the bed is to climb aboard and attempt to pull sheets and blankets flat when you are laying on them is difficult.

I used to love to stretch out on the watch berth while reading in the pilothouse. At anchor or at the dock, the pilothouse was a good place to get away and chill out to get quiet time to read a book.

The Galley—Not Just for Heating Up Cans of Soup

When you live aboard, making meals should become one of the joys of the daily routine. If it is a chore, it won’t be enjoyed very much and the meals—and crew—will suffer.

When I consider how I might live on a trawler at this stage of my life, I think of the things I use regularly enough to have them stay on the counter. The coffee grinder comes to mind, as does the electric kettle and French Press. It would be a pain if I had to pull these things out of a cabinet or locker every morning. I have no problem storing other appliances away for occasionally use, such as the toaster, food processor, or popcorn popper.

I don’t think I would skimp on the number and shape of knives in the galley. I don’t need lots of knives, but again, I don’t want to just get by. The right knife makes light work of preparing food in the kitchen or galley. They are important to me.

This past holiday I baked Christmas cookies for the first time in quite awhile. I wonder if I would do that living on a trawler? I may stop short of carrying a large pastry board to roll out the dough, and I doubt a rolling pin, set of cookie cutters, and other galley tools can be justified just to make gingerbread cookies once a year. It is all about understanding the big picture and making reasoned choices.

The obvious solution to the above holiday scenario is to make a date at a friend’s house to cook Christmas cookies together and make it a social event at their home. You avoid the mess on your boat but get to enjoy the holiday fun. Bring them a good bottle of wine.

I would want a dishwasher on my trawler this time around. I know that many of the smaller modern dishwashers use less water than doing dishes manually and washing dishes by hand is too much like camping to me now. Sorry, call me an old guy. But I like running the dishwasher and having everything squeaky clean. I see more and more trawlers coming with dishwashers, so I know it is not just me. Sure, on a 34-foot boat this may not be possible, but on a larger trawler it can usually be accommodated.

(Below: Luxury liveaboard boats, like this Krogen, have very well-equipped galleys.)

Since I use an oven at home most every day, my galley would need to have a nice stove and oven. The oven is not a luxury to me.

While we’re thinking about the ideal liveaboard situation, I would also like a really powerful exhaust fan in the galley. While it is invigorating to smell bacon in the morning, I don’t care for an odor that lingers and mixes with other kitchen smells all day. A clean galley includes the air.

Storage—The Bugaboo of Every Boat

The subject of storage is perhaps too long to cover at one time. But some key things to mention will bring up scores of other thoughts.

How do you bring groceries from the car to the boat? Like many cruisers and liveaboards already know, it is handy to have a cart of some kind to transport bags and packages. How does it work on the boat/dock, and where do we store it when it isn’t being used? Does it fit somewhere in the cockpit, or does it live in the car’s trunk?

What about consumables we regularly use? It is nice to have a pantry or linen closet somewhere, so when a box of Kleenex in the saloon is empty, it is no big deal to pull out a new one. That is not the case if the supply of boxes is buried behind settee cushions under paper towels and toilet paper.

What about the land things we still use? How about bicycles, and what about our hobbies and other non-boating interests and hobbies? I am into photography, so where do I keep my gear? I don’t develop my own film anymore, so I don’t need any of that paraphernalia, but a camera bag needs a place where it is readily accessible. And if digital images need to be processed in the computer, if all I have is the saloon table that is not going to be a good solution at all.

What about musical instruments, such as a guitar or keyboard? Or quilting and sewing, or camping gear, or whatever. Is there a good place to store it all on the boat and then easily pull it out when the mood strikes? Or is there some better place for all of it off the boat?

If I go skeet shooting, where can I store a shotgun on the boat and where will it also make sense to clean the gun when I return to the boat? I would think a workbench of some kind in the engine room might be ideal, assuming it is roomy enough to move around, is well lit, and doesn’t smell like an old, leaky engine room.

What about your off-season clothes? Is there a good place to store them without damage? Again, no big deal if this isn’t the only residence or we’re living a more relaxed lifestyle down in the islands for several months, but what if it is our only home?

The storage on many trawler yachts consists of large spaces behind, under, and around other furniture and structures. Is it usable, practical, and safe for what is stored? A large bin for off-season clothes may be great and out of sight, but not if it must be routinely moved around to get access to thrusters or stabilizers. Or eventually develop smells that make them unwearable.

(Below: The interior of this Novatec 55 has lots of cabinets and storage opportunities throughout the boat.)

And what about if you have an extensive wardrobe? If one needs to have more than a blazer or sport coat while living on the boat, it is not going to be easy to find a place for everything. Same with shoes, dress shirts, ties, dresses, and all the other accessories. It is a boat, after all, and while James Bond can pull off a tuxedo under a wetsuit, most of us can’t. Layout and Comfort Systems

It is the rare person who doesn’t need a handy place to charge phones and other devices each day. Is there a good place where all these devices can be plugged in without a hunt the next day for where they are? I’m talking about phones, hearing aids, fitness trackers, and all the other personal electronics we have. It is nice if there is an obvious central space for us for this purpose.

All the systems that make living aboard such a nice experience also have their maintenance needs. If the HVAC systems have filters that need regular cleaning, are they easy to get at without taking the boat apart? Much the same as my need to have great access to fuel filters, any serviceable things on my boat should be easy to get at, and the spare replacements should also not require tearing the boat apart to locate.

Ideally, a place for everything, and everything in its place…without clutter.

Above All—Make it Easy

One big point in this discussion is how we make the boat suitable for living aboard without losing the ability to leave the dock easily and quickly. Unlike a few household plants that can be placed in the galley sink to keep them from toppling over, the rest of the interior should not need to be transformed before we can go boating.

If a couple decides to go anchor out for the weekend up a quiet creek or visit an exciting downtown city marina for a few days, it should be relatively easy to make this happen. It shouldn’t require a pile of stuff be left on the dock. Assuming the trawler has a gyrostabilizer or active stabilizers, we should not need to reconfigure the interior to handle the boat’s motion.

Obviously, the dog’s water bowl might need to be stored in an “at sea” special spot, but this should involve minimal effort. Clothes in hanging lockers survive just fine when the boat is stabilized, although we are not making a passage. Longer trips will require a careful inspection to get ready for sea.

At the end of the day, living on a trawler can be a satisfying experience for however long, blending the love of waterfront living with one’s other interests and activities. You may find you’ll have to use the same glass for orange juice in the morning as for later to pour a couple of fingers of your favorite single malt at the end of the day. Not a problem.

You can have it all, but only on the right boat, properly set up for living aboard. It can be a fantastic chapter of one’s life, making memories that cannot compare to life ashore.

If done right, you can take it all with you as you pursue that perfect sunset—complete with the Green Flash…or eagles overhead and a bear walking silently along the beach.

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