can you sail a yacht anywhere

Can You Sail Anywhere You Want?

So you’ve got your boat, or you’ve chartered a yacht, and you are ready to set sail. But where to? Are the restrictions on where, when, and how you can sail? Can you sail anywhere you want?

You can sail anywhere you want as long as you comply with the regulations and requirements of the territorial seas that you are passing through. These include the necessary sailing certifications and boat and passenger safety requirements. You will also need to meet the specific country’s immigration requirements if you pass through their port of entry.

Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about where you can sail to and the different requirements you might need to prepare for your trip.

Can you sail anywhere you want?

Although it is technically possible and legal to sail anywhere, well almost anywhere, there are many factors to consider that you would need to take into account that would apply to different regions or territories that you enter. These may also vary depending on the specific territory.

Let’s look at some of the important factors to consider now:

Licenses and Certifications

You might be required to have specific licenses or sailing certifications, depending on where you plan to sail.

Sailing around the U.S., for example, and even going down to the Caribbean, has no requirements. You might only need to prove your experience by showing your sailing resume and answering some technical questions if stopped by any authorities.

Sailing outside of the U.S., however, would require you to have specific sailing certifications like the RYA Day Skipper Practical, International Certificate of Competence (ICC), ASA 103, 104 or above, depending on the country or region.

Safety Requirements

Each country or region that you sail to will have their own requirements in terms of boat and crew safety standards, and you need to ensure that you are aware of these requirements for every place to plan to sail to and that you comply with them accordingly. For the most part, they all just follow a minimum international safety standard. Still, knowledge is power, and better to be prepared than to have your journey cut short because of non-compliance in this matter.

Now this is the most critical point that would affect the outcome of your sailing endeavors and where you can and can’t sail to.

The countries you sail to or territories you enter might require you to have a preapproved visa before entering. This is not universal and dependent on a few factors like your country of origin, nationality, country’s passport or passports that you hold, etc.

This is the part of your journey that would need to be planned thoroughly and ahead of time to ensure that you comply will all the necessary requirements.

How do I know where I can and can’t sail?

Knowing where you can and can’t sail to all comes down to doing your homework.

You would need to plan your journey ahead of time and contact all the relevant countries, ports of entry, etc. on your route to find out what requirements each respective stop on your journey has to comply with them and arrange any documentation needed ahead of time.

There is a website you can visit that will give you most of this information, but always check for yourself as well, as sometimes this information can change, and websites might not always be updated accordingly.

Visit noonsite.com to check for specific requirements per region, country, or port of entry, when planning your journey.

Is it legal to sail around the world?

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, it is entirely legal to sail around the world, as long as you have a boat that complies with the necessary safety standards, you have the required sailing certifications, and you have the visas required to enter any and all place you plan to sail to and enter.

How far away from the coast is international waters?

The United Nations Conventions of the Law of the Sea of 1982 defined “territorial sea,” which is the area of coastal water extending around a coastal state, as 14 miles (12 nautical miles) from the baseline of that coastal state.

This territory belongs to and is subject to that specific coastal state’s laws and regulations, but they usually allow all foreign ships to pass through the space in transit.

All areas outside of the territorial seas are considered international waters.

Do you need a passport in international waters?

The short answer here would be no, but once you enter a territorial space or any country’s port of entry, you might be required to show your passport or visa, depending on one or some of the many factors we mentioned earlier in this article.

Do you need visas to sail around the world?

As mentioned earlier in this article, this is a crucial part of your sailing journey around the world or any specific destination for that matter.

The destinations you can sail to and countries you can enter on your trip would depend on whether you require a visa to enter that particular country. There are no exceptions to this rule when sailing and entering through a different point of entry into the country; if you usually require a visa to pass through the immigration of the country you plan to sail to, then you would need a visa when sailing there as well if you plan to enter the country.

Besides entering countries, you don’t need a visa to just pass through countries’ territorial seas.

Do private yachts go through customs?

This, again, is another situation where it is conditional upon many factors, depending on the country you are planning to sail to.

In general, however, you would be required to go through the Customs and Immigration of a country when entering with a private yacht. The yacht would be required to go through customs for everything to be checked and declared, while all people on board the yacht will be required to go through immigration and meet whatever immigration requirements that particular country may have.

The same goes for the U.S., where you would be required to inform U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the U.S. Coast Guard of your arrival, and all passengers aboard the yacht would be required to clear immigration before being allowed to enter the country. Non-US citizens would need a visa in this case, which has to be arranged and approved prior to arrival.

Can you be stopped in international waters?

Any state can essentially stop you while sailing on international waters, as long as your flag state does not object to it. Your flag state is the country where your boat is registered. So if your boat is registered in the U.K., then the U.K. is your flag state.

Countries normally cooperate in this manner, especially if there is a suspicion of a crime, which is not a situation you will hopefully find yourself in.

Best places to sail to in the world

Now that you have all the knowledge of where and how to find out where you can sail to, let’s take a look at some of the best places in the world to sail to for some inspiration and get you on the way to your next amazing sailing holiday.

Greece is a great sailing destination with loads of islands, beautiful waters, beaches, harbors, bays, and more, making this an ideal sailing adventure.

Some of the spots worth checking out are the Ionian (Captains Corelli’s Kefalonia in the south and Gerald Durrell’s Corfu in the North), the Cyclades with islands such as Mykonos, Ios and Santorini, the Dodecanese islands, and many more.

Sicily, Italy

Sicily is home to the fantastic Aeolian Islands just off of its north coast, boasting some beautiful beaches, locations for swimming and relaxing, sweet little waterfront towns, and of course, the mouthwateringly delicious Sicilian cuisine!

The Grenadines, Caribbean

A chain of 32 islands off of the coast of the West Indies, the Grenadines are known for its unspoiled beaches and clear blue waters with picturesque scenes that you might recognize from the Pirates of The Caribbean movie franchise.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

An island that can be found in the Indian Ocean, rich in history and known for its trade past with the Arab world. Many great places to discover and sites to visit with rich cultural landmarks and activities all around.

The British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands offers some of the best beaches, coves, and secluded spaces across the various islands for you to discover. Onshore you will also find some great resorts, restaurants, and hiking trails.

In conclusion, yes, you can pack your bag, get your boat, and set sail off into the sunset to any destination that your heart desires, provided you have the required documents to go there.

Bon voyage!

James Gerard

Hi, I'm James! I started sailing at a very early age here in the UK, and have enjoyed so many opportunities to sail all over the world. I created this website to share the many sailing tips I've leaned over the years, so that you can also discover the joy of sailing with safety and confidence.

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Home » Blog » Buy a boat » 5 best small sailboats for sailing around the world

5 best small sailboats for sailing around the world

By Author Fiona McGlynn

Posted on Last updated: April 19, 2023

A small sailboat can take you big places

Small sailboats are the ticket to going cruising NOW — not when you retire, save up enough money, or find the “perfect” bluewater cruising boat. In fact, it’s the first principle in Lin and Larry Pardey’s cruising philosophy: “Go small, go simple, go now.”

Small yachts can be affordable, simple, and seaworthy . However, you won’t see many of them in today’s cruising grounds. In three years and 13,000 nautical miles of bluewater cruising, I could count the number of under 30-foot sailboats I’ve seen on one hand (all of them were skippered by people in their 20s and 30s).

Today’s anchorages are full of 40, 50, and 60-foot-plus ocean sailboats, but that’s not to say you can’t sail the world in a small sailboat. Just look at Alessandro di Benedetto who in 2010 broke the record for the smallest boat to sail around the world non-stop in his 21-foot Mini 6.5 .

So long as you don’t mind forgoing a few comforts, you can sail around the world on a small budget .

What makes a good blue water sailboat

While you might not think a small sailboat is up to the task of going long distances, some of the best bluewater sailboats are under 40 feet.

However, if you’re thinking about buying a boat for offshore cruising, there are a few things to know about what makes a small boat offshore capable .

Smaller equals slower

Don’t expect to be sailing at high speeds in a pocket cruiser. Smaller displacement monohulls are always going to be slower than larger displacement monohulls (see the video below to learn why smaller boats are slower). Therefore a smaller cruiser is going to take longer on a given passage, making them more vulnerable to changes in weather.

A few feet can make a big difference over a week-long passage. On the last leg of our Pacific Ocean crossing, our 35-foot sailboat narrowly avoid a storm that our buddy boat, a 28-foot sailboat, couldn’t. Our friend was only a knot slower but it meant he had to heave to for a miserable three days.

Small but sturdy

If a pocket cruiser encounters bad weather, they will be less able to outrun or avoid it. For this reason, many of the blue water sailboats in this list are heavily built and designed to take a beating.

Yacht design has changed dramatically over the last 50 years. Today, new boats are designed to be light and fast. The small sailboats in our list are 30-plus year-old designs and were built in a time when weather forecasts were less accurate and harder to come by.

Back in the day, boat were constructed with thicker fiberglass hulls than you see in modern builds. Rigs, keels, rudders, hulls and decks – everything about these small cruising sailboats was designed to stand up to strong winds and big waves. Some of the boats in this post have skeg-hung rudders and most of them are full keel boats.

The pros and cons of pocket cruiser sailboats

Pocket cruiser sailboats present certain advantages and disadvantages.

More affordable

Their smaller size makes them affordable bluewater sailboats. You can often find great deals on pocket cruisers and sometimes you can even get them for free.

You’ll also save money on retrofits and repairs because small cruising sailboats need smaller boat parts (which cost a lot less) . For example, you can get away with smaller sails, ground tackle, winches, and lighter lines than on a bigger boat.

Moorage, haul-outs, and marine services are often billed by foot of boat length . A small sailboat makes traveling the world , far more affordable!

When something major breaks (like an engine) it will be less costly to repair or replace than it would be on a bigger boat.

Less time consuming

Smaller boats tend to have simpler systems which means you’ll spend less time fixing and paying to maintain those systems. For example, most small yachts don’t have showers, watermakers , hot water, and electric anchor windlasses.

On the flip side, you’ll spend more time collecting water (the low-tech way) . On a small sailboat, this means bucket baths, catching fresh water in your sails, and hand-bombing your anchor. Though less convenient, this simplicity can save you years of preparation and saving to go sailing.

Oh, and did I mention that you’ll become a complete water meiser? Conserving water aboard becomes pretty important when you have to blue-jug every drop of it from town back to your boat.

Easier to sail

Lastly, smaller boats can be physically easier to sail , just think of the difference between raising a sail on a 25-foot boat versus a 50-foot boat! You can more easily single-hand or short-hand a small sailboat. For that reason, some of the best solo blue water sailboats are quite petite.

As mentioned above small boats are slow boats and will arrive in port, sometimes days (and even weeks) behind their faster counterparts on long offshore crossings.

Consider this scenario: two boats crossed the Atlantic on a 4,000 nautical mile route. The small boat averaged four miles an hour, while the big boat averaged seven miles an hour. If both started at the same time, the small boat will have completed the crossing two weeks after the larger sailboat!

Less spacious

Living on a boat can be challenging — living on a small sailboat, even more so! Small cruising boats don’t provide much in the way of living space and creature comforts.

Not only will you have to downsize when you move onto a boat  you’ll also have to get pretty creative when it comes to boat storage.

It also makes it more difficult to accommodate crew for long periods which means there are fewer people to share work and night shifts.

If you plan on sailing with your dog , it might put a small boat right out of the question (depending on the size of your four-legged crew member).

Less comfortable

It’s not just the living situation that is less comfortable, the sailing can be pretty uncomfortable too! Pocket cruisers tend to be a far less comfortable ride than larger boats as they are more easily tossed about in big ocean swell.

Here are our 5 favorite small blue water sailboats for sailing around the world

When we sailed across the Pacific these were some of the best small sailboats that we saw. Their owners loved them and we hope you will too!

The boats in this list are under 30 feet. If you’re looking for something slightly larger, you might want to check out our post on the best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet .

Note: Price ranges are based on SailboatListings.com and YachtWorld.com listings for Aug. 2018

Albin Vega 27($7-22K USD)

The Albin Vega has earned a reputation as a bluewater cruiser through adventurous sailors like Matt Rutherford, who in 2012 completed a 309-day solo nonstop circumnavigation of the Americas via Cape Horn and the Northwest Passage (see his story in the documentary Red Dot on the Ocean ). 

• Hull Type: Long fin keel
• Hull Material: GRP (fibreglass)
• Length Overall:27′ 1″ / 8.25m
• Waterline Length:23′ 0″ / 7.01m
• Beam:8′ 1″ / 2.46m
• Draft:3′ 8″ / 1.12m
• Rig Type: Masthead sloop rig
• Displacement:5,070lb / 2,300kg
• Designer:Per Brohall
• Builder:Albin Marine AB (Swed.)
• Year First Built:1965
• Year Last Built:1979
• Number Built:3,450

Cape Dory 28 ($10-32K USD) 

This small cruising sailboat is cute and classic as she is rugged and roomy. With at least one known circumnavigation and plenty of shorter bluewater voyages, the Cape Dory 28 has proven herself offshore capable.

• Hull Type: Full Keel
• Length Overall:28′ 09″ / 8.56m
• Waterline Length:22′ 50″ / 6.86m
• Beam:8’ 11” / 2.72m
• Draft:4’ 3” / 1.32m
• Rig Type:Masthead Sloop
• Displacement:9,300lb / 4,218kg
• Sail Area/Displacement Ratio:52
• Displacement/Length Ratio:49
• Designer: Carl Alberg
• Builder: Cape Dory Yachts (USA)
• Year First Built:1974
• Year Last Built:1988
• Number Built: 388

Dufour 29 ($7-23K)

As small bluewater sailboats go, the Dufour 29 is a lot of boat for your buck. We know of at least one that sailed across the Pacific last year. Designed as a cruiser racer she’s both fun to sail and adventure-ready. Like many Dufour sailboats from this era, she comes equipped with fiberglass molded wine bottle holders. Leave it to the French to think of everything!

• Hull Type: Fin with skeg-hung rudder
• Length Overall:29′ 4″ / 8.94m
• Waterline Length:25′ 1″ / 7.64m
• Beam:9′ 8″ / 2.95m
• Draft:5′ 3″ / 1.60m
• Displacement:7,250lb / 3,289kg
• Designer:Michael Dufour
• Builder:Dufour (France)
• Year First Built:1975
• Year Last Built:1984

Vancouver 28 ($15-34K)

A sensible small boat with a “go-anywhere” attitude, this pocket cruiser was designed with ocean sailors in mind. One of the best cruising sailboats under 40 feet, the Vancouver 28 is great sailing in a small package.

• Hull Type:Full keel with transom hung rudder
• Length Overall: 28′ 0″ / 8.53m
• Waterline Length:22’ 11” / 6.99m
• Beam:8’ 8” / 2.64m
• Draft:4’ 4” / 1.32m
• Rig Type: Cutter rig
• Displacement:8,960lb / 4,064 kg
• Designer: Robert B Harris
• Builder: Pheon Yachts Ltd. /Northshore Yachts Ltd.
• Year First Built:1986
• Last Year Built: 2007
• Number Built: 67

Westsail 28 ($30-35K)

Described in the 1975 marketing as “a hearty little cruiser”, the Westsail 28 was designed for those who were ready to embrace the cruising life. Perfect for a solo sailor or a cozy cruising couple!

• Hull Type: Full keel with transom hung rudder
• Hull Material:GRP (fibreglass)
• Length Overall:28′ 3” / 8.61m
• Waterline Length:23’ 6” / 7.16m
• Beam:9’ 7” / 2.92m
• Displacement:13,500lb / 6,124kg
• Designer: Herb David
• Builder: Westsail Corp. (USA)
• Number Built:78

Feeling inspired? Check out the “go small” philosophy of this 21-year-old who set sail in a CS 27.

Fiona McGlynn is an award-winning boating writer who created Waterborne as a place to learn about living aboard and traveling the world by sailboat. She has written for boating magazines including BoatUS, SAIL, Cruising World, and Good Old Boat. She’s also a contributing editor at Good Old Boat and BoatUS Magazine. In 2017, Fiona and her husband completed a 3-year, 13,000-mile voyage from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia on their 35-foot sailboat.

Saturday 1st of September 2018

Very useful list, but incomplete - as it would necessarily be, considering the number of seaworthy smaller boats that are around.

In particular, you missed/omitted the Westerly "Centaur" and its follow-on model, the "Griffon". 26 feet LOA, bilge-keelers, weighing something over 6000 pounds, usually fitted with a diesel inboard.

OK, these are British designs, and not that common in the US, but still they do exist, they're built like tanks, and it's rumored that at least one Centaur has circumnavigated.

Friday 31st of August 2018

This is a helpful list, thank you. I don't think most people would consider a 28' boat a pocket cruiser, though!

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Do I need a sailing license to sail around the world if I own my own boat?

The answer is a simple no. The sailing license that you typically hear about is for yacht chartering only and only in certain areas of the world like the Mediterranean, Seychelles, and a few others. All yacht charter companies are required by local port authorities (in the required counties) to ensure that you have a sailing license before allowing you to take out their yacht.

But if you own your own yacht, you “technically” have free rein of the world.

HOWEVER – as we all know, local authorities don’t necessarily abide by “higher power” rules and some local authorities have local sailing license rules. And usually, there is no one to argue. Do you want to argue with the local port authority in a foreign language after they have impounded your boat? It is not likely that this will ever happen to you but it has happened. Especially, if you accidentally ding someone’s boat in a marina – accidents happen (unless you have taken the NauticEd Maneuvering Under Power Course – shameless plug).

THUS, when sailing the world it is prudent to get a sailing license to ward off any issues around this topic.

FORTUNATELY, NauticEd has made getting a sailing license simple, inexpensive, and easy to attain – so long as you are already a competent sailor.

The SLC license is an international sailing license. NauticEd has the authority to issue the sailing license. All the requirements to gain the SLC sailing license are here. But essentially, you must take and pass online sailing courses, log in your electronic logbook 50 days of past history sailing – some as master of the vessel and some on a vessel greater than 28 ft (8.5m), and do an assessment on the water of your skills which takes about 6 hours.

Who is NauticEd? We are an officially recognized sailing education body by the United States Coast Guard as verified by NASBLA (the licensing authority for all the States in the USA). The SLC we issue is accepted by all countries that require a license including Croatia (which is the most difficult country to be authorized in). The NauticEd SLC is listed on the official government acceptance list by the Croatian government. All yacht charter companies in the world recognize the SLC.

In addition, the SLC is not limited to American Citizens. It can be issued to any citizen of any country.

Learn more about the SLC here

My vision for NauticEd is to provide the highest quality sailing and boating education available - and deliver competence wherever sailors live and go.

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Everything You Need to Sail to Another Country

Posted by: GJW Direct   |   May 1, 2018

One of the most thrilling aspects of owning a boat is the potential to explore the globe; setting sail and traversing the open seas to reach new and exciting countries, the world really is your oyster when you have access to a boat!

Before you go sailing off into the sunset, it’s important to consider what you’ll need to take with you when visiting another country, as well as any rules and regulations that might be different depending on the region.  

Ship’s Papers

Your ship’s papers consist of the core paperwork relating to your vessel and the skipper or crew, that you need to be able to present to a customs official if required. Ideally, all documents should be the original copies.

• Registration document: If you wish to take your boat outside of territorial waters you need to have the registration document.
• Radio Licence: Under International Radio Regulations, all transmitting stations must have a radio licence. The equipment must also be operated or supervised by someone that has a maritime radio operator certificate.
• Insurance: In general, insurance is now essentially compulsory in European countries and many will ask for proof of cover. Some countries stipulate specific conditions, in Portugal for example third party liability insurance is required for any vessel over 7 metres in length. GJW provide competitive cover for all types of vessels!
• Proof of VAT status: It’s very rare that you’ll be asked to provide this, however if you have a receipt or invoice for proof of VAT it’s worth having it onboard with you just in case.
• Voyage log: Again, not completely compulsory, however it’s good practice to keep a log of all your voyages and sometimes foreign officials have been known to ask to see them.

Personal papers

You and every member of your crew need to have the following documentation: Passport, Visa and Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). It’s advisable to check the expiry date well in advance of any trips you plan to make in case you need to apply for a renewal. A visa is not always necessary, and some countries provide different options for short and long stay durations.

For further information on GHIC (or to see if you’re still eligible for the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) under the Withdrawal Agreement), please refer to the NHS website. It’s worth noting that neither of the cards should replace travel insurance.

Flag Etiquette

An ensign is the national flag of your origin country, to indicate your nationality to other vessels. It needs to be flown as close to the stern as possible and is to be worn at all times in daylight. Be aware that the maritime ensign is not always the same as the national flag - the UK for example is different.

As you travel into international waters, a Q flag symbols that you have not officially ‘checked in’ to the country you’re visiting. Customs and immigration control should then come to inspect your boat, however check the individual guidelines for the specific port you’re planning to visit. It is also customary to fly a courtesy flag of the country you are visiting, although not obligatory. Fly it from the starboard spreaders used for signalling and make sure it’s in good condition, as some nations see it as rude to hoist a tatty flag!

International certificate of competence (ICC)

Though not always needed, it’s good practice to carry this just in case. The ICC helps overcome the difficulties that can arise between different regions and discrepancies in legislation. The ICC provides an assurance from one government to another that the certificate holder has demonstrated the necessary level of competence to be driving the vessel.

Country-specific documentation and publications

Some countries require you to carry a list of everyone that’s on-board your vessel, whilst many also specify that you need to carry a copy of the local almanac and guidelines for the area you are visiting. Another common publication that’s recommended is the international regulations for preventing collisions at sea.

Red diesel receipts

Although legal to purchase in the UK, it is now illegal in many EU countries, for example Belgium. Just in case you’re asked, keep hold of your receipts for your fuel purchases along with your engine hours so that you can prove the legitimacy of your red diesel purchase.

Travel insurance

You should always purchase travel insurance whenever you go abroad, regardless of the mode of transport, to make sure you’re covered should anything go awry. There are plenty of options to suit different budgets and lengths of stay, including year-long cover should you travel frequently for a lower premium.

What laws do you need to follow while in international waters? 

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) provides a framework for the law when out at sea and defines territorial limits for which country a vessel is under the obligation of. Generally, follow the rules of your home nation but be aware that as you enter different areas and potentially go ashore, customs may be slightly different. From dress codes to mannerisms, general etiquette might vary, so learn as much as you can about the area you’re visiting before you go.

To help make your trip as safe, legal and enjoyable as possible, the best advice we can give before you sail the international waters is to do your research well in advance - find out where the local ports and customs offices are, what the entrance requirements are, learn a little of the local language.  

Ultimately, you are responsible for making sure that you have all the necessary documentation for stress-free sailing abroad. If in any doubt, get in touch with your local boating authorities for further advice. And be sure to keep all your documents in a waterproof case! 

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What kind of boats cross the Atlantic Ocean? 7 Options explained

You're looking for a way to go across the Atlantic without flying. What options are out there? Here are 7 options explained. I sailed five of them across the Atlantic.

Sailing an ocean on a Small sailing vessel

Many privately owned sailing vessels cross the Atlantic to spend a sunny sailing season either in the Mediterranean or Caribbean or as part of their around-the-world voyage. It is a big deal for them and attracts all sorts of seamen and women: young ‘pirate’ dudes who have escaped the rat race, adventure couples, retirees, families, groups of friends, and single older sailors.

The largest share of the captains is between 50 – 65 years old. It's the group that has the time and money resources to sail. All sorts of nationalities make the crossing, with the French and Swedish seeming to dominate the fleet.

By crewing on a small sailing yacht, you'll be involved with every aspect of seamanship and sailing. You will learn a lot for sure. Many boats choose to stop in Cape Verde or the Azores, and often don’t have tight schedules.

Boats come in all sorts of shapes and materials. Hulls are made from steel, wood, aluminium, and today mostly of fibreglass. 90% of the boats crossing the ocean is bigger than 36ft, with most of them measuring around 44ft. (14m).

A smaller yacht could also be perfectly ocean-worthy. I've seen boats of 26 ft. crossing the pond. Some adventure people row across the Atlantic. In 2017 someone even Stand Up Paddled (SUP) across the Atlantic. Being on any boat is a luxury compared to that.

Six people (out of 100) I interviewed in my book crossed the Atlantic on a boat smaller than 36ft. and all of them would like to do it again. This year we also have Nadiem, Ocean Nomads member who'll sail across in his little sailboat.

Both monohulls and catamarans cross the Atlantic. Catamarans are generally faster, more spacious, and rock less. On the flip side: they can flip!  If  they do, it’s a major challenge to come up again. Don’t worry, this is extremely unlikely. Having seen hundreds of boats planning, preparing and making the crossing, I estimate that roughly 70% of the boats that cross are monohulls.

With Ocean Nomads we sometimes have small liveaboard sailing vessels looking for crew in the network to sail across, or members recommend a vessel from their networks.

In our brand new Ocean Nomads Crew Course , I share all the tips and tricks for finding and securing a safe sailing vessel with which to sail as crew. Eco & Adventure style. Proper preperation makes all the difference for a happy, safe and meaningful voyage.

Sail with me & Ocean Nomads in Greece in 2024! Level up your sailing skills and make ocean people connections accelerating your sailing journey. 4 vessels, 11 days, 30 nomads! Learn More. 

Sail across the Atlantic on Superyacht

Many larger yachts cross the Atlantic as a ‘delivery’, where a boat needs to be taken from point A to B. Boats have to be moved across the ocean for a new charter season, for the private owner who will hop on board again on the other side, or because someone bought it on the other continent.

Usually, paid and professional crew do these types of deliveries. As an amateur crew member, you can be a cheap extra set of hands.

A yacht is a ‘superyacht’ when it is over 24 metres (79ft.). These are  big yachts. They often have generators running every day to keep fridges and freezers going. They load up thousands of litres of fuel and water, and are less dependent on the wind.

As such, there is less risk and generally more comfort. These trips often run on a tight schedule, so there won't be much flexibility for stops along the way (like in Cape Verde or the Azores). In most cases, there will also be more people on board (five-eight people compared to three-five on smaller vessels).

Crossing on a big boat like this is faster, less adventurous, and more comfortable. The crew are often younger, and some live and work permanently on the boat. Many of them have crossed the Atlantic Ocean numerous times and are therefore less excited about it than the average ‘yachtie'.

Timelines are tight and there’s often not time for island exploration. Usually, you are expected to work hard. Also, it's not unusual that superyachts don't even use the sails to prevent damaging, and have the sails tip /top for when the owner comes on board.

Garmin Inreach Mini2

A transatlantic on a charter yacht.

If you would rather not have the pre-crossing adventure or spend too much time searching for a boat, and/or if money is not an issue, you can book a charter ocean passage. Charter trips are organised on all sorts of boats: small, big, monohulls, catamaran, and racing boats.

Numerous racing yachts cross the ocean reaching boat speeds up to 35 knots! In addition to professional crew, spots are sold and you can sign up for a wet and speedy adventure guaranteed.

A charter trip costs between €2,000 and €10,000. An organized trip like this could be advantageous if you’re on a tight schedule. It’s more likely to leave on the planned date.

At the same time, the time schedule could be a disadvantage. What if the weather window is not ideal to leave? In many cases, though not always, everything is taken care of such as provisioning and cooking, so you wouldn’t have to figure out much yourself.

Charter organisations need to comply with a lot of safety requirements and check ups to legally carry out the voyage. This assures some safety but still you need to do your homework if it's a safe ride.

Another consideration of booking this type of passage is that you won’t know your shipmates. When you search the adventurous way, you have the opportunity to meet the other sailors before you commit to joining the crew. On a chartered passage you’re stuck with whoever else has booked the trip, even if you don’t like them.

With Ocean Nomads we work together with SV Twister and have the following Atlantic Crossings planned .

Sailing the Atlantic on a Tall ship

Every year, numerous tall ships sail across the Atlantic, like the Stad Amsterdam or Oosterschelde, and this year also SV Twister :) .  Sailing across on a large traditional boat is spectacular. Many young people work on the tall ships. You could either try that or buy yourself a passage.

I wrote the above in my book, a friend of SV Twister reached out to me. Long story short, last  year 2022/2023 I, with Ocean Nomads, organizing a trip across the Atlantic, Caribbean sea, and back across the Atlantic , and I now experience this way of sailing across also. You can join this trip in 2025 .

Update! We're back from the Atlantic. And we made a film about it:) Here is a the film about Sailing the Atlantic with Ocean Nomads. My 5th Atlantic crossing.

Travel the Ocean with a Sail Boat Ferry

There are no sailing ferries (yet), although boats are being built for this purpose. At the time of writing, Voyagevert is conducting feasibility studies to construct the fastest and largest sailing catamaran for a ferry service as a sustainable alternative to flight for transatlantic travel. Also Fair ferry is looking into it.

A transatlantic on a cruise ships

Another kind of ferry are the cruise ships. More and more cruise ships cross the Atlantic to do the season on the other side. They need relocation and spots on board are sold as ‘repositioning cruises.' It's often cheaper than airfare and your house rent combined. One option that is cool, is ‘ Nomadcruise ,’ an Atlantic crossing for entrepreneurs and digital nomads.

These floating cities are not an environmentally friendly way to cross. It takes around eight days and a lot of noise to cross with a cruise ship. Data on emissions is remarkably difficult to find. Some sources state that an average cruise ship at sea emits more, and less filtered, smoke than one million cars combined each day.

In a one-week trip, a large cruise ship generates ten backyard swimming pools of blackwater (raw sewage) and 40 more swimming pools of greywater (water from sinks, baths, showers, laundry, and galleys). It also generates large volumes of oily bilge water, sewage sludge, garbage, and noise.

Sail Across the Atlantic on a Cargo ship

More cargo ships cross the Atlantic than sailboats. This is a non-sailing ship option that can take you across. Cargo ships usually rent out a few cabins to passengers. This costs a few thousand euros. Travelling with a cargo vessel can be a good alternative if you want to cross the ocean, don’t like sailing, and do not want to fly. Prepare to be surrounded by engine noise. Crossing on a cargo would take one to two weeks. Depending on the weather, cargo and size, cargo vessels run between 15-25 knots . 

There are also  sailing  cargo Atlantic crossing possibilities out there. ‘ Tres Hombres ‘ is a 32 metres Schooner transporting traditional goods like rum and chocolate between the Caribbean and Europe. Timbercoast is a 1920 built 43.5m Schooner that transports goods like coffee and gin. Both ships welcome crew on board helping out with this sustainable way of transporting goods.

My ocean sailing preference

“What kind of boat are you joining?” This was the first question most people asked me when I told them I was going to cross the Atlantic Ocean by sail. At the time, I knew nothing about boats, and thought “Does it matter? I just want to make the passage!” Having sailed across on five completely different boats across the Atlantic, I know now that the type of boat determines large part of the experience.Not just because of the boat, but because of the tasks and people involved with that type of boat.

My preference is to crew on a smaller monohull sailboat of 40-44ft – basic but adventurous and on these boats, I've met the coolest captains. Monohulls are more fun to sail. It's easier to ‘feel' the boat as opposed to a catamaran. It's kind of like a scooter versus a quadbike.

Smaller boats generally allow for more exploring and socialising time around the harbour- since there's usually less work to be done. This is the adventurous way of travelling by sailboat where you go with the weather and with others as excited about the adventure as you. I sailed as crew on these kind of sailboat for years ( Here is a video summary of my story ).

At the end, it's the people who make the trip! In my survey amongst 100 Atlantic ocean Crew & Captains who have done it, almost everyone answered to the question: “what would you do different, if you'd go again?” “I'd take more time to find the right vessel, with like minded and value sharing people.

Finding a boat is the easy part, finding the right and safe vessel aligned with your vibes and values, is the main challenge. With Ocean Nomads we now created a toolkit to help you dip your toes into the ocean nomads lifestyle , happy, safe, and meaningful.

How to find a sail boat ride across the Atlantic?

Here’s what I and ocean nomads have created for you to help you get out there, happy, safe, and meaningful.

It’s that time of the year again when many head south and west to follow the sun, catch the tradewinds, and realize ocean dreams.

Travelling an ocean on someone else’s sailing boat, or taking a stranger on board is not a straightforward endeavour. To be ready to expect the unexpected, careful investigation and preparation is essential. Four Ocean Crossings and 30.000 Miles of boat hitchhiking on dozens of vessels, as well as organizing crew for +10 different trips now, I figured out a few things, and keep learning:).

Here are the latest waypoints to help you on an ocean adventure, fun & impact:

• We’ve created resources and mini-courses on Sailing across the Atlantic, Offshore crew packing lists, Ocean crew preparing tips. Provisioning with minimum waste, Veggie recipes, Zero waste nomad life, and ocean education information. But the real value is the network you can tap into, find answers, connections, and support to make the ocean adventure dreams real.

• Because of that we can create way real value and attract real dedicated members only who are serious about making dreams real. 

NEW in 2024! The Sailboat Travel Crew Prep course.

I help you transition from being new to sailboat travel to a confident crew member securing a position safe, soon and sustainable. All my sailing lifestyle crew tips condensed into one pack. 

Ps. If any of the above has helped you, I'd love to hear so! Make a comment, leave a review on @oceanpreneur or @oceannomads.community, fill out the big Atlantic Ocean Crew survey

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On which boat have you crossed or would you be most exciting to cross the Atlantic?

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The best appropriate boat is about 30 to 40 feet long. In case you using a smaller boat, there is a possibility that it may not withstand harsh weather conditions and ocean currents.

thank you so much for this cool article.

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Your First Charter Sailing Vacation

By: Zeke Quezada, ASA Charter , Destinations , Learn To Sail

When ASA started over 35-years ago our primary goal was to get people sailing safely and competently so they could reach the goal of buying their own boat and living happily ever. At that point, charter companies were few and far between, however, as time went on, the bareboat charter industry became more and more substantial and omnipresent. Now sailors can rent all different kinds of boats, in nearly any location in the whole world.

Today ASA has over 400 affiliated schools, has taught over half a million students and has a team of over 7000 certified instructors. As ASA has grown so has the charter industry. When Ginny and Charlie Cary founded Moorings Bareboat Charters in 1969 could they have imagined an industry where you can charter a boat almost anywhere in the world?

ASA believes a great charter experience is truly the reward of a superior sailing education.

In those early days of chartering a boat you needed to prove your competency and have the money to pay for the boat; these days things have changed. You still need a credit card to sail away on a million dollar yacht but to some extent you have to show you know a bit more about sailing. In Europe, the International Proficiency Certificate (IPC) allows you to charter a boat and in the Caribbean Charter Boat Companies utilize your ASA certifications and logbook as proof of your ability to safely operate a charter boat.

Today bareboat chartering is the culmination of your sailing education. When you walk across the deck and get your sailing diploma you step on to the metaphorical boat of your future and you can sail it anywhere you want! That is the goal, to set you off confidently on your own. We know we have done our job when you are in a breathtaking anchorage with your feet up enjoying the sunset.

Our goal is simply to get you sailing, safely and confidently in all conditions.

How Do You Get Started?

You have taken a sailing course now what?

Ask yourself a few questions to make sure that you are ready to go out on your own. Keep your answers in mind as you read through our suggestions and tips for embarking on your first charter.

Are you qualified to sail a boat in unfamiliar waters?

• Does a course alone qualify you to charter a boat?

How is your sailing resume?

• Have you logged enough hours to give yourself the confidence you need?

Can your ego handle it?

• Would it hurt to sail with a captain for a day or two?

Don’t answer just yet. Keep your answers in mind as you go through our tips for a first time sailing charter vacation.

First Charter Tips and Suggestions

Setting off on a sailing Charter Vacation is not unlike planning any other vacation except for the little detail of where your accommodations will be. With a sailing charter vacation, your hotel is your boat so you have to factor in the sailing conditions within your planning.

If this is your first charter vacation there is a good chance you’ll want predictable wind, easy navigation and a destination that is charter-friendly. With that in mind, the British Virgin Islands are as an ideal location as you can get. Essentially, the BVI are a giant pond surrounded by lovely islands full of onshore diversions and excursions.

Navigation in the British Virgin Islands is virtually line of sight. You see where you want to go and you find the heading to get you there.

• Year round warm weather and warm water
• Caribbean Culture
• Predictable wind
• Plenty of resources from other sailors to charter company bases

Other destinations in the Caribbean: St. Martin, Grenadines,  Bahamas

Looking for something more from your first charter vacation?

However, if you want to head off the beaten path you can find plenty of charter destinations that can cater to the first time charter vacation sailor.

A few questions to consider when deciding on the right destination for your first-time charter vacation.

What type of sailing do you want to do?

What onshore excursions and distractions are you hoping for?

Looking for a rustic beach bar in the tropics or a fine dining experience in St. Tropez?

A Few More Options For Your First-time Charter Vacation

Why the Mediterranean? The allure of European culture has long been the draw to chartering  a boat in Europe with a historical component as well as a multitude of onshore attractions. You’ll need an International Proficiency Certificate if you plan to charter a bareboat in Europe.  Also, familiarize yourself with the med moor as it is quite common in European ports.

Take a Look at a Few More Ideas for Your Sailing Destination

• Florida Keys
• Exotic Locations

Who Are You Sailing With?

You will be spending a week with friends and family in a small space with very little privacy; choose your companions well.

When selecting a crew you will need at least another person who can handle the boat and the various duties required. As captain, you’ll need a first mate and deckhands.

Questions to consider:

• Do you have someone with sailing experience as part of your crew?
• Do you have someone who will plan your proposed itinerary with you?
• Are you willing to spend a week with these people in close quarters?

Types of Questions to Ask Your Potential Crew:

• Do you get seasick?
• What is your sailing experience?
• Can you swim?
• Do you have a passport?
• How much are you willing to spend?
• Do you need a rigid itinerary or are you flexible?
• How much do you drink? Light, heavy or medium alcohol use.
• Are you an early riser or night owl?
• Do you have any dietary restrictions?

What Type of Charter?

What type of charter is the next question to ponder. Do you head out alone on a bareboat charter or do you sit back and enjoy the ride on a crewed boat?

This type of charter gets you a captain and possibly some crew. You could even have a personal chef if you so choose.  Be prepared to give up a berth for the captain and crew.

Pro: You get to go on a sail vacation without having to stress about much. The captain will set the course and you will be along for the ride. You are paying for an experience and you can be sure that with the proper communication you will have a great sail. You’ll get to sail as much or as little as you’d like.  With the right captain and crew you can get anything you want. Also, the size of the boat matters here as you will be sharing living space with the crew.

Con: Someone else is calling the shots so you might not get that extra few hours at the beach bar or be able to spontaneously change the itinerary. You get what you pay for so prepare to pay more for what you really want.

Captain for a Few Days

The idea behind having someone come aboard for the beginning of your charter is to help you gain confidence with the boat, the destination and to give you a good idea of what is to occur during the portion of the charter where you take over.  This is a good idea if you are just getting your feet wet driving a twin screw catamaran or in a destination that has so many options that local knowledge is extremely helpful.

When you embark on a bareboat charter you are on your own. While the charter company might help you with some maps, tips, and emergency support, you are basically on your own to set your itinerary and your provisions. You essentially rent the boat and agree to bring it back by a set date. No crew, no schedule, no timetable other than a start and end date.

This option saves you the most money and affords you the most amount of flexibility. You are responsible and in charge of everything. If you feel like you have the training and confidence this could be the best way to experience your first sailing charter vacation.

Take a look at a few tips on planning that first sailing vacation .

Choosing a Charter Company

These are the questions to consider when looking for the company that will rent you a boat for your first sailing charter vacation.

• How do you find a charter company that is right for you?
• Charter company operates in your chosen cruising grounds
• How much do you want to spend?
• What type of boats are in their fleet? Catamaran or monohull? Small or large?

When you took your first ASA 101 course this is the moment you were dreaming of. The sailing vacation where you are the captain and the entire family is your crew. You could see it happening as you first picked up your Sailing Made Easy textbook. When you took ASA 103 it became all too clear that no matter what happened for the rest of your life, your excursion would not be complete until you chartered your own boat. After ASA 104 all the confidence you had gained led you to this moment when you began your search for a charter boat.

Well, it’s time for you to set off on your own and explore endless shorelines and secluded coves. You have mapped out your plan and you have reserved your vacation time now all you need is a boat.

How do you choose a charter company to rent a boat for a week? Before you start your research for a company pick up a   Cruising World Magazine and look at their charter company advertisements. They also have an online directory: see it here

First Question: How much do you want to spend?

What kind of vacation do you want? Is this a luxury cruise or a budget sailing adventure? Charter companies offer varying amenities from 5-Star,  First Class crewed to barebones bare boats.

If you decide on deluxe, you should probably consider one of the large, full-service companies. Look at what “extras” are offered—some base locations, for instance, are mini-resorts unto themselves. Some have full-service hotels at the base, with a pool, grocery/liquor stores, and shops. Decide how important these before-and-after-charter amenities are to you. If your budget is limited to one of the lesser expensive companies, you’ll likely still have a grand time, but it’s important to alter your expectations accordingly.

One way to know what you can expect is to look at the age of a company’s fleet at the base where you intend to charter.

Chartering Rule: Older boats are usually less expensive.

However, many companies offer impeccably maintained boats that are 5 years old or more. Older boats that are well taken care of can provide an excellent charter experience, but go into the charter knowing what you’re getting so you won’t be disappointed on arrival.

Charter Company Examples:

Moorings – Moorings.com/

Moorings have been in business for over 50 years and they boast 20+ destinations to charter a monohull or catamaran. Their operation handles everything down to the airport transfers if you need them. They are a one-stop travel agent for would-be charter customers.

Where They Sail

You’ll find Moorings charter bases in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Tahiti, Tonga, Thailand, and Seychelles.

How Big Is Their Fleet

400+ Yachts. Their fleet is seemingly endless with options that vary from their “Exclusive Plus” boats that are less than a year old to “Club” boats that are 3+ years of age up to 10 years old.  All of the yachts are maintained to high standards and briefings from Moorings staff prior to your sail are thorough and designed to make you as comfortable as possible with your boat.

Horizon Yacht Charter – horizonyachtcharters.com/

Grenada, British Virgin Islands, St. Vincent

Their fleet is made up of both monohulls and catamarans with a majority being late models and some in the range of 3 to 6 years old. Their fleet varies in age.

Choosing a Boat

Choosing the right boat for your sailing charter can be simple as you really only need to think about four basic questions :

• How many people?
• How big of a boat?  – Does size matter?

What type of boat?  Monohull or Catamaran

• How much do you want to spend?  – Luxury or budget?

Take a look at some suggestions for choosing a boat for your first sailing charter

How Many People Will You Sail With?

If you decide to take a quaint sailing vacation with just you and your significant other you might find that a small monohull is more than adequate for your sailing vacation. If your crew consists of children, mother-in-laws and sailing newbies you may want to consider a large catamaran that boasts space enough for everyone’s needs and personalities.

When you are taking more than your immediate family ask questions about the number of berths and the number of heads. Also, is your group the type that will need more or less privacy? Will kids share a berth or sleep in the salon? Spending a week on the boat? The need for space and privacy will be magnified if the group does not normally live in the same household.

How big of a boat?   Does size matter?

The bigger the boat the more hands you will need to be active crew. Even though charter boats have all the required bells and whistles that make sailing easier, if a boat is much larger there will be a need for more experienced and willing crew members. You can expect most boats over 36 feet to have twin steering stations that allow for easy passage from the cockpit to a swim platform carved into the transom. Most handling will be done from the cockpit.

If this is your first charter consider a smaller boat and fewer people so that you have less crew with which to deal.

There are a few things to remember when dealing with the size of a boat. A larger and therefore heavier boat requires more skill to maneuver and takes practice. The crew will be required to work with larger anchors and dock lines and that requires more muscle power.

The choice is between a monohull and a catamaran. Simply put it is between the roomier accommodations and increased privacy of a catamaran and the generally smaller layout of a monohull. Two boats of the same length will vary significantly on the beam and will sail vastly differently.

Does your crew enjoy the feeling of heeling and cutting through the swells or is a condominium on the water what your group is going for? With two boats of the same 43-foot length, a catamaran will provide more generous living space – with four cabins, each with its own head – than a monohull. However, it is also a bigger boat to maneuver under power and sail.

• How much do you want to spend?   Luxury or budget?

Cost is a factor in how you choose your boat for a sailing vacation. Catamarans on average will be more expensive relative to your sailing location. Size, quality, features, and amenities all play a role, as do location and season. Establish upfront how your group will share the charter and incidental expenses.

Things to Know

These are some of the details that you may want to be familiar with. If you are on a bareboat you’ll need more knowledge than if you are on a crewed charter.

• Anchoring – Operating a windlass – bridle use and placement
• Picking up a mooring ball
• Handling a Bigger Boat
• Roller furling mainsail
• Understanding Lazy Jacks
• Electric Winches
• Dinghy Operation
• The Watermaker
• Can you discharge? Where do the pipes empty?
• Battery power management

What to Bring

Consider the climate and personal preference but try to remember that you will be on a boat and oftentimes space is limited so if you feel like you really will not wear 6 pairs of shoes, you might want to leave the extras at home. Also, ask if there is a washing machine on board. If you are on a large boat you’ll be surprised as to what will be tucked away on board.  Will you be going out to a fancy dinner? What type of clothes will you need for that?

Suggested packing list:

• 3 pairs of shorts
• 2 swimsuits one wet one dry
• 1 pair of long pants
• 1 windbreaker
• 3 t-shirts because you will inevitably buy 3 more
• 2 buttoned up evening shirts (short sleeve)
• 1 pair of flip flops
• 1 pair of deck shoes
• 1 pair of walking shoes
• 1 summer dress
• 1 light sweater
• underwear at your discretion

Plenty of boats will come with a welcome kit

• Enough for the first few days but you can buy most things when you arrive.
• Charging devices
• Sunscreen (it’s cheaper at home than on vacation)
• Is your camera on your phone all you need?
• Do you need a waterproof camera like a GoPro for action shots?
• Do you need high-quality video of your charter?

Diving Equipment

Should you rent your gear if you are only doing a couple of dives or is this a dive vacation?

Does the charter company provide snorkel equipment? If you are diving you could rent your gear at your destination so it is probably best to travel with your dive computer and mask, especially if it is prescription. When you factor in the cost of checking in your gear at the airport it may be more cost-effective to rent.

Charter companies will have plenty of options when it comes to kayaks, stand up paddleboards, snorkel equipment, etc. Leave them at home and let the charter company supply them.

Most charter companies supply towels for the boat but some do not supply beach towels. Once again this is all dependent on the size of the boat and the type of charter. If you spend more on your charter there is a good chance that everything is on the boat but if you go with a barebones company you may have to pack your own beach necessities.

Check with the charter company to make sure that they provide pillows, blankets, etc. (small independent charter companies might not provide these essentials)

Bring your own meds (keep in your carry-on, not in your checked luggage).  Also, ask the charter company if there is a pharmacy near the charter base?

Charter companies often include a starter pack for the boat. An example such as this might be found on your boat. Of course, this all depends on the type of boat and company you decide to charter with.

Example Starter Pack:

The pack includes: 1 bottle of rum, 2 limes, sugar, 1 pack of 6 Coke cans, 1 gallon water, 1 small bottle of dishwashing liquid, 1 dish cloth/sponge, garbage bags,1 roll of paper towels, 1 box of matches, 1 roll of toilet paper in each head.

Before You Go:

Are there items from home that you should take to your destination?

• Snack items travel well, meats do not.
• Most boats will have all the equipment for cooking meals but they might not have specialty items that you are familiar with. Coffee maker, yes, coffee grinder, no. Chef’s knife, yes, paring knife, no. Blender, maybe, food processor, no. You are still on a boat. It is best to ask your charter company about what to expect on the specific boat you will be on.
• While most charter boats have freezers it is possible that the boat that you charter may not have a freezer/refrigerator combination that will accommodate all of your food for a week.  Ask about ice chests and the availability of ice.
• You will need space for local foods. Conch, lobster, rockfish, etc.
• Water. Water becomes very valuable on a boat so it is important to understand the limitations of its use. This is a valuable commodity so ask these questions of the charter company: Does the boat have a watermaker? Can you return to the base for water? Are there convenient locations to get water?

While the charter company can shop for your food for a week plan on eating on shore a few times..

Do opt for the damage waiver as you do not want to be saddled with a bill because something went wrong. The cost of the damage waiver is minimal compared to the potential bill when a nearby boat drifts into your bow while at anchor.

Trip Insurance, should you buy it? There are a lot of moving parts when deciding on a boat vacation so consider insurance that allows you to cancel in the case of bad weather or sickness.

DAN Boater – Evacuation insurance? If you are an ASA Member you get a great deal on evacuation insurance. While no one wants to be evacuated you also don’t want the bill if you need to be evacuated.

Tipping the Crew and Captain

Yes, if you are on a chartered boat with a crew you will be tipping the crew for their service. 15 to 20 percent of the cost of the charter is customary but it really depends on how well you think they took care of your needs.

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Twenty Small Sailboats to Take You Anywhere

John Vigor turns the spotlight on twenty seaworthy sailboats that are at home on the ocean in all weather. These are old fiberglass boats, mostly of traditional design and strong construction. All are small, from 20 feet to 32 feet overall, but all have crossed oceans, and all are cheap.

Choosing the right boat to take you across an ocean or around the world can be confusing and exasperating, particularly with a tight budget. Vigor sets out to remedy that in this book. He compares the designs and handling characteristics of 20 different boats whose secondhand market prices start at about $3,000. Interviews with experienced owners (featuring valuable tips about handling each boat in heavy weather) are interspersed with line drawings of hulls, sail plans, and accommodations. Vigor has unearthed the known weaknesses of each boat and explains how to deal with them. He rates their comparative seaworthiness, their speed, and the number of people they can carry in comfort. If you have ever dreamed the dream this book can help you turn it into reality.

International Folkboat

Pacific Seacraft 25

Albin Vega 27

Cape Dory 25D

Contessa 26

Morris 26 Frances

Catalina 27

Falmouth Cutter 22

Pacific Seacraft Dana 24

Pearson Triton

Contessa 32

Southern Cross 31

Bristol Channel Cutter

Nicholson 31

Allied Seawind

Westsail 32

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How Big Of A Boat Do You Need To Sail Around The World?

This is a popular question in boating circles, especially for new sailors dreaming of heading over the horizon. Lacking experience, it is difficult to know fact from fiction when walking the docks.

The truth to this simple question is a lot less intimidating than one might expect. Small boats routinely go sailing offshore. Beyond stunts to grab the title of smallest ever, a lot of legitimate sailors have enjoyed cruising on small boats. (There is an interesting book for those wanting to know more about the smallest ocean crossing sailboats : A Speck on the Sea , by William Longyard.)

I knew an architect in Seattle who told me when she was younger, she and her boyfriend decided to sail his Piver 25 trimaran to Bermuda from Charleston. They had limited resources, and with minimal accommodations and storage, they intended to exist on bags of popcorn. Unfortunately, the winds were not favorable, they soon ran out of water, so they turned around.

However, Arthur Piver, one of the pioneers of trimaran design, built a 21-foot boat named Nugget that he sailed down the California coast in the late 1950s. That same boat later cruised down to Mexico. Subsequent homemade boats in the early 1960s were sailed across the Atlantic as well as to New Zealand.

So, the question about how big your boat needs to be to sail around the world has more to do with design and construction than just overall length. Indeed, there are many cruising boats that most would find too small, but are strongly built and well made, such as the pocket-sized sailboats from Pacific Seacraft. The 20-foot Flicka is by no means the mainstream image of a bluewater boat, yet many have crossed oceans. The 400+ Flickas out there are rugged, much loved, and bluewater capable.

(Seen below: An example of a 20-foot Flicka sailboat.)

The same can be said for the slightly larger Pacific Seacraft 24-foot Dana, designed by Bill Crealock. Only slightly longer than the Flicka, the Dana took small boat sailing to another level, as the increased volume and interior allow a couple to comfortably live aboard while cruising, which include making ocean passages.

The adventures of Tania Aebi , who circumnavigated the world in her Taylor 26 (the Canadian version of the Contessa 26) captured the imagination of many sailors. The Contessa is a small but seaworthy little boat with sitting headroom, similar to the legendary Folkboat. Yet its capability is well established. Her slightly larger sister, the Contessa 32, was the only small boat to finish the stormy 1979 Fastnet Race, where 24 boats were abandoned, and 15 lives were lost.

(Seen below: An overview of Tania Aebi's travels by sailboat.)

I once asked Canadian naval architect, Ted Clemens, what he thought the minimum size boat one should consider for going offshore. He smiled and said that it is difficult to say. He then told me about Ben Carlin, an Australian who was the first (and likely only) person to circumnavigate in an amphibious vehicle. After World War II, Carlin bought a surplus Ford GPA (an 18-foot version of the well-known, Army DUKW) and added a cabin and towable fuel “barge” to increase its suitability for crossing an ocean. He named it Half-Safe. (Interestingly, Rod Stephens Jr of Sparkman & Stephens worked on the design of both the GPA and DUKW.)

Carlin successfully crossed the Atlantic with his wife in 1951. Over the next ten years they continued around the world. At the completion of his world travels, Carlin had driven Half-Safe 11,000 miles across oceans and 37,000 miles across continents. Half-Safe is now on display at the Guildford Grammar School in Perth.

To frame the other side of the same question, I once had an absorbing conversation with Ed Monk, Jr in Ft Lauderdale  . I asked him what he felt was the ideal size boat to sail across oceans with a high degree of confidence. He told me it was a favorite subject he shared with his father, who was fascinated by rogue waves. The Monk father and son duo spent a lot of time researching available data. They finally concluded that a vessel of 83 feet overall was the ideal smallest and safest yacht to survive all things at sea, including rogue waves.

I’ve since concluded that boat size is perhaps a trifle less important than the quality of its design, construction, and outfitting. Even the small yachts I mention from Pacific Seacraft are nice sailing boats and can sail along smartly in general ocean conditions.

But to say these small boats are ideal for sailing and cruising across large bodies of water would be silly, even if one does bring along enough popcorn. A small boat does not have the storage, the tankage, or the living space that is required for successful cruising.

Having said that, YouTube channels are full of young couples sailing and living the dream in boats that are small, old, minimalist, and cheap. Sailing and living aboard a boat that is 50 years old is not something I look forward to. The Allied Seawind, original Valiant 40, and Alberg 30 are all classic boats that have a long history of successful cruising and offshore sailing. Ditto larger popular boats like the Stevens 47, Passports, and Peterson 44. Yet boats of that vintage are in constant need of rebuilding, refit, and fixing things in exotic places.

I bought a new Baba 30 in 1985. It was a super boat and cozy home for a single guy. I just loved being aboard and sailing this small jewel of a yacht. Yet, a couple of years ago a friend sent me pictures of my former boat, now for sale in Aruba. I shudder to think of the work it now represents. The Yanmar 30GM30F must be tired, the fittings, hoses, and every piece of moving gear needs to be changed, and the rigging surely needs to be carefully inspected and most of it replaced.

To bring her back to my standards would be a costly challenge.

( Seen below: A Baba 30 sailboat. )

So, let’s consider what is involved with buying a used sailboat to go offshore, at least as far as traveling to the islands or Mexico. A boat capable of sailing offshore but not necessarily around the world.

Unless it is new or nearly so, once you buy a boat, you will need to make some upgrades and refit some of the systems. And down the road you will also need to maintain and repair it as necessary. So, when looking at any vintage sailboat, a potential buyer must be alert to the possibility of fiberglass delamination, rot in plywood bulkheads, moisture or blisters in the hull, and leaking hardware and hatches. They are common issues but also why the price may be right.

It might take a year or more to resolve all the issues, and one can spend up tp 100 percent of the purchase price to complete the repairs. Maybe a new engine, sails, mast and rigging, water and fuel tanks, pumps, hoses, fittings, electrical and electronic updating… the list can be long.

And it doesn’t stop there. What is required to get the boat ready and safe for sailing offshore? Consider another 40 to 50 percent of the purchase price for things like a liferaft, heavier ground tackle and windlass, redundant autopilot, wind vane steering, and the necessary spare parts and extras one should have aboard just in case.

And if it is a larger boat, one might want to install air conditioning, upgrade the boat’s refrigeration, perhaps add a bow thruster, a generator, solar panels, and other equipment for comfortable living aboard. Comfort is a good thing, as one can expect to spend 90 percent of the time at anchor, mooring, or dock…not under way. Did I mention a new dinghy and outboard?

For all the above reasons, I am of the school that thinks it is best to buy a new or newer boat, even if it must be in the smaller end of the size range being considered. A five-year old 38-foot sailboat will have far fewer issues than a roomy 45-footer that is 40+ years old for the same general price range. It is just the way it is.

Looking to do more than simply go offshore occasionally? How about crossing an ocean to do the Atlantic Loop between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, or Hawaii from the West Coast?

Most cruising experts agree that a boat between 35 and 45 feet is the most common and works well for couples. The people who run the ARC , the annual event that attracts over 200 boats and 1,200 people to cross the Atlantic from Gran Canaria to St Lucia, keep great records of the fleets from year to year. Couples and families cross the ocean as part of this event and then spend a year or more in the Caribbean and perhaps up to the Bahamas and U.S. before heading back across to the Mediterranean. It is a well-traveled and well documented itinerary and a wonderful experience for all.

( Seen below: An ARC event where dozens of sailboats head for St. Lucia. )

According to the organizers, these days the most popular boats are standard production boats, and the most popular in recent ARCs are Lagoon and Fountaine Pajot sailing catamarans , and Beneteau and Jeanneau monohulls. These and the other European production boats from Hanse Yachts , X-Yachts, Bavaria, Dufour, and Dehler make this trip safely. They are comfortable, easy to sail, and are a good choice without costing a fortune.

An ARC representative said the average water tank size in recent Transatlantic crossings is 500 liters, or 132 gallons. That is fine for general cruising and to do this Atlantic crossing (with a bit of water management), but that would not be the choice for someone planning a three-to-five-year circumnavigation.

Keep in mind that production sailboat builders build boats for the way most of their owners use their boats. And most have no intention of crossing an ocean. So, while these boats may be designed and built for CE certification rating of Class A, the boats are not finished to the level necessary to take on a circumnavigation. And it would be foolhardy for any of these builders to significantly raise the price of their boats to cover the additional and unnecessary effort and expense in hopes of satisfying the desires of only a handful of potential buyers.

Take Beneteau, for example, the largest boat builder in the world. They know their customers very well and how they use their boats. Why would Beneteau intentionally install large fuel tanks when they know the diesel fuel needs of their owners are basically minimal. Most sailors motor in and out of their marina, and maybe motor for a time on vacation when the wind dies. But over the course of a season, they don’t use much diesel fuel. Unused diesel that sits in a large tank over a long time can easily become a major problem, especially if water gets into the tank.

Experienced sailors, on the flip side, know that for long distance cruising, it is a good idea to carry enough fuel to be able to travel under power for 700-1,000nm. That is not a rule, but it is nice to have long legs. It also means one does not have to scrounge around for diesel fuel once they arrive in remote island chains. Owners can wait until they reach a major destination to refuel. Hand pumping diesel fuel out of 55-gallon drums after a long passage into five-gallon Jerry cans to ferry out in the dinghy is not much fun.

The same can be said for water tanks. Even with 80 gallons of water on a boat, if it is not used and turned over, it can develop a nasty taste and smell. Seasonal sailors use water on weekends and on their summer vacations, but it is usually readily replenished when they are cruising. The idea of carrying around a large supply of water is ridiculous to most recreational sailors. Yet it is important to world cruisers.

That is why the boats that participate in the ARC but then continue around the world are built to a different mission statement. They are generally beefier in construction, use heavier and more robust fittings, systems, and hardware, have bigger tanks, and are better equipped for long distance sailing. These boats will be the Oyster, Hallberg-Rassy, Najad, Swan, Malo, Garcia, Amel, and Garcia, to name a few. They are the choice for a circumnavigation.

Having larger fuel and water tanks requires more volume in a boat, which means a bigger boat. On one hand, we might choose a larger boat because it is faster and can cover more miles per day while providing more comfortable living accommodations at anchor. But it will also carry more water and fuel, as well as other storage for provisions, and room for spares. A bigger boat wins in all aspects except cost and perhaps ease of handling.

On the issue of ease of handling, I’ve been particularly interested in the boat choices for older sailors who want to go offshore, but who are not as agile, flexible, or as immortal as someone in their 30s or 40s. For the cruising senior, it is probably best to think smaller, perhaps around 35 feet or so. This will make sailing easier without needing complex gear to run the boat. In my experience it is easier to sail a big boat than a small one, but only with a healthy and athletic crew. Beyond a certain age, I think it reverses itself. A big boat has momentum and is comfortable in a seaway, but a smaller boat is more easily handled (and less stressful) for aging sailors who just don’t have the strength and flexibility they once enjoyed.

( Seen below: The Hanse 348 has a self-tacking jib system so all lines go to the helm for easily sailing. )

I am a member of the Ocean Cruising Club , a UK-based organization of cruising sailors who embody the world cruising community. Its international membership can be found in every corner of the world, including the northern and southern latitudes, experiencing the life many of us dream of. Whenever I am in the company of OCC members, whether manning their booth at a boat show, or at one of their cruising events, I enjoy hearing their stories and conversations between members, such as the best place to buy fuel in Panama, going ashore at St Helena Island, navigating ice fields in Greenland, or which part of New Zealand they enjoyed the most. It is also nice to hear how much they enjoy cruising the Chesapeake Bay.

The annual OCC Members’ Handbook lists the current member roster and what boat they own. I found it interesting while thinking about this article because these people are out there cruising the world and most of the members I’ve met already circumnavigated, or nearly so. So, perusing the handbook about the size and brand of their sailboat, seemed to fit the dialogue perfectly. Very few are production boats.

Randomly opening the handbook to boat names listed alphabetically under “M,” I see Tayana 48, Mason 44, Malo 39, Vancouver 27, Moody 346, Fisher 37, Bristol Channel Cutter 53, Valiant 42, Baltic 48, Bowman 40, Amel Maramu 48, Hylas 49, Sundeer 56, Lagoon 421, Leopard 47, Sceptre 41, Saga 43, Tartan 40, Oyster 55, Hanse 371, Rustler 36, Outremer 45, Catana 42S, Alden 44, and others. These are mostly in the range of boats we are talking about, although given the experience of some of these members, some have gradually stepped in size for a more comfortable home afloat.

Several experienced experts feel that one should look for a boat with a displacement/length ratio under 360, which is a moderate displacement relative to a boat’s waterline length. It is a nice compromise between the ability to carry weight, have a comfortable motion, and sail fast. Heavier boats are slow and harder to maneuver, while boats with numbers under 200 will be limited in what they can carry and won’t be as comfortable when the weather goes south. There are websites that list D/L ratios for most boats out there, and it is just one tool to develop an understanding of how a boat will be out in the ocean.

It is quite possible to enjoy the offshore experience on any size sailboat, but just not on one where the deck flexes under foot, or the size of fittings in the rigging are best suited for lake sailing. With some experience, it becomes easy to pick out the real deal among the less competent boats built to a price point. As a fan of small boat sailing, I am always intrigued by a designer’s ability to fit it all into a smaller package yet robust enough to take on the sea.

Even so, I also understand why so many seasoned cruisers today want a big boat with the ability to make 200 miles a day, which makes for fast passages and being able to sail away from weather systems. That is a valid point as well.

When you decide you are up to the challenge, go out and look at as many boats as you can, and connect with an experienced broker who understands all these factors. And, unless you are intent on making a living publishing your cruising adventures on your YouTube channel, focus on the fun of it.

Making landfall is exciting no matter what size boat you sail. Just hope the rogue waves are elsewhere.

Also Read : Frequently Asked Questions About Sailboats

Enjoy these other boating and cruising articles:

• What Is The Best Size Sailboat To Live On?
• What Is The Safest Sailboat?
• Is Sailing A Cheap Hobby?
• What Are The Different Types Of Sailboats?
• Is Sailing Hard?
• How Big Of A Sailboat Can One Person Handle?
• Bringing Your Trawler Home
• Your Boat's Fuel Economy
• Extend Your Sailing Life
• Yearly Engine Service And Beyond
• Sometimes It's All About Simplicity
• The Bucket: A True Story
• Essential Supplies For Extended Cruising
• The Exhausting Need To Keep Up With New Technology
• Have A Backup Plan!
• Northern Marine Exhaust Systems Are Better
• Cruising Boats Come Of Age
• Changing Rituals
• Did Wisdom Come To The Ancient Mariner?
• Going World Cruising? Not So Fast
• What Engines Are In Your Boat?
• Letting Go But Still In Control
• Learning To Handle A New Boat
• Improving The User Experience
• A Paradigm Shift In Cruising
• Consider Buddy Boating
• A Matter Of Staying Safe While Boating
• Should I Carry A Gun While Cruising?
• A Boater's 3-to-5 Year Plan
• Provisioning Your Yacht For Extended Cruising - Alaska
• The Evolution Of The Trawler Yacht
• The Great Loop
• Getting Ready For The Great Loop
• A Winning Great Loop Strategy
• Tips For Cruising South

Hiring A Yacht Captain

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Sailboat Vs Yacht: What is The Difference?

Many boaters use the terms “sailboat” and “yacht” interchangeably when they are actually quite distinct. A yacht is a larger boat or ship that is used for recreational purposes. The term “yacht” is of Dutch origin, and it was initially described as a small, swift sailing vessel used by the Dutch navy to track down and catch pirates. A boat, on the other hand, is a smaller vessel that can range from a fishing boat to a sailboat in size. So, if you’re interested in this topic, this article will compare yachting with sailing in many ways. Like this, you will have a much better understanding of which option is best for you. Keep reading!

Sailboats and Yachts: Meaning

Firstly, it’s important to understand the meaning of each word. Generally, a boat is a form of watercraft that comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. A boat is a watercraft that is small enough to fit on a ship, which is typically less than 1,000 feet long. A ship is a huge vessel with a large carrying capacity that can transport other vessels. The size, shape, and capacity of a boat vary depending on its intended usage. Boats are most commonly employed for navigating places along the water’s edge or inland waterways like lakes and rivers, although they can be utilized on any water source. Boats can be used for a variety of purposes, including providing service to people and vessels on the water, recreational activities, commercial passenger, and cargo transportation across waterways.

So, a sailboat (sailing vessel) is a boat that is propelled primarily by the force of the wind on sails. Keep in mind that the term “boat” can cause some misconceptions about the vessel’s size. People may refer to it as a sailing ship rather than a sailing boat once it reaches a particular size. Also, boats are generally thought to be smaller than ships. A sailboat is a water-borne watercraft whose principal means of propulsion is the wind, which is captured and controlled by triangular-shaped pieces of cloth known as ‘sails.’ On the other hand, a powerboat is a watercraft with an internal combustion engine as its primary source of propulsion.

A yacht is most likely a vessel that is primarily used for personal rather than business purposes. There are yachts that you can hire for a week or more. This might add a little confusion as they are commercially owned but within the hire period, they are used by individuals for leisure purposes. Generally, people usually refer to sailboats as yachts or vice-versa. This is a common phenomenon nowadays, however, there are significantly more sailing yachts than motor yachts at the seaside/marina. If you want to specify a boat that is not largely powered by the wind, use the word motor yacht.

Sailing yachts and motor-powered yachts are the two forms of yachts available today. Yachts range in length from 26 feet to hundreds of feet. A cabin cruiser, or just a cruiser, is a luxury vessel that is less than 39 feet long. A superyacht is typically above 70 feet long. So, what is the definition of a mega yacht? They usually exceed 150 feet in length, but there is no top limit! Note that the world’s largest boat is 728 feet long, or 222 meters.

Let’s now check the main differences between a sailboat and a yacht:

Sails and Motor

The boat may be powered purely by the wind or by one or more inboard or outboard motors, depending on the model. While some larger boats may have very massive engines to provide genuine speed on the water, most yacht engines are far less powerful. Yacht engines are substantially larger, can produce far more power – up to 800hp in some circumstances – and can go many further distances.

If you’re searching for a vessel that’s easier to operate, you could argue that a yacht is a superior option. Sure, the computer components are more complicated, and there is more to manage, but sailing will be simpler. In stormy weather, managing a sail can be tricky. From inside the cabin, you can’t manage your sails. You may, however, operate your yacht from the cabin.

It’s a fact that sailboats will always have sails. After all, it’s their primary source of propulsion. The nail is what propels the boat forward by harnessing the wind. So long as the weather permits, sailing can be done anywhere, at any time. Yachting, on the other hand, has its own set of restrictions. A yacht will usually lack a sail, which can be viewed as a good or negative aspect, depending on your perspective.

The advantage of having a sail over only an engine is that you don’t have to worry about running out of fuel. Fuel is not only costly but also inconvenient and pollutes the environment. When on long voyages, you must always keep an eye on your fuel levels, or you risk breaking down at sea. The great thing with sailboats is that as long as there is wind, a sailboat can sail. If you have an extra sail onboard, you should be alright regardless of what occurs. You have a significantly lower chance of being left stranded at sea.

>>Also Read: Sailboats Vs Powerboats: Why Sailboats are Better

Size Matters

The size difference between a yacht and a sailboat is one of the most significant ones. Most of the time, a sailboat will almost certainly be smaller than a yacht. Of course, some sailboats are larger than others, but if we’re talking about average sizes, a yacht will be larger. The reason that size counts so much when deciding which boat to buy is that the available space is limited. So, if you opt for space note that the larger your boat is, the more space you’ll have. This may seem self-evident, but it is one of the most crucial aspects of your boat to which many people forget to give due consideration.

Generally, when it comes to boats, size will always matter. Except in cases where someone prefers overall better performance and speed. But, keep in mind that almost everything you do will be influenced by the size of your boat. The smaller the boat, the less storage space you have, the less space you have for emergency supplies, and even the less space you have for yourself. Regardless of the size of your boat, your sleeping quarters will most certainly be small. Also, depending on your height, every inch of a room may be crucial.

When there are more people on your boat than just you, size matters the most. If you intend to live alone on your yacht, you will have a significant space advantage. If there are three persons on board, you probably going to need more equipment and devices for cooking or for emergencies. All of this suggests that the sleeping space is the most significant distinction between living alone and living with people. If you live alone on a yacht that can sleep four people in theory, you will have a lot more storage and consequently space.

People on Board

The extent to which the crew will influence your decision is mostly determined by your budget and the size of the vessel you are considering buying. Meaning that if you’re intending to buy a sailboat, you won’t need any crew. Except for your family/friends that live on your boat with you, you basically are the entire crew. However, if you own a yacht, it’s an entirely different scenario.

If you intend to live aboard your yacht, you may require the assistance of one or two crew members. There will be plenty to do even if you are the most essential member of the team, i.e. the captain. This is because you might haven’t already mastered things like navigation, maintenance, plumbing, and engineering. So, a yacht often requires a complete crew to assist with navigation, maintenance, electronics and engineering, repairs, and sometimes even stewards to attend to the passengers.

In other words, having a sailboat means that you can take care of everything yourself. There are only a few computer components that will need to be repaired, and you are unlikely to have an engine. Repairing a sailboat isn’t easy in and of itself; it’s just easier for one person to handle. Meaning that it’s far easier to replace a sail than it is to fix an engine. In bad weather, a small sailboat is just easier to monitor than a large yacht. At the absolute least, another set of eyes will be probably required when sailing with a yacht.

Price also Matters

In general, yachts tend to be more expensive than sailboats. Occasionally, a great deal more. For a variety of factors, the most important of which are materials, design, and construction techniques. Note also that a boat’s price is likely to rise as it becomes more modern. Although this isn’t always the case, it is the vast majority of the time. If money is a key factor in deciding which boat to buy, here’s something to think about: just because a yacht is more expensive doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have one. If you have the cash, knowledge, and you know the kind of sailing you will be doing then go for a yacht!

Note also that a sailboat can be outfitted with a variety of amenities and conveniences. But, the sailboat doesn’t always include these features. This will mostly depend on the type of sailboat. As a result, buying a basic sailboat can save you a lot of money. However, most yachts will provide high end amenities. As a result, a motor yacht will cost significantly more than a regular sailboat. Sailboats are also smaller than yachts, which means you have a larger selection of less expensive boats to pick from when making your purchase. But, yachts often start in the six-figure range and can reach millions of dollars depending on the yacht’s size, age, and build quality.

Maintenance and Repairs

Yachts are frequently more expensive to maintain than sailboats. Meaning that boat engines require a great deal of upkeep, and the expense of fuel can be prohibitive for many individuals. For example, did you know that a gallon of diesel fuel in a yacht may only allow you to travel less than 1 nautical mile? If you’re going on a long voyage out to the sea, you can end up spending a lot of money on fuel. A sailboat, on the other hand, can take you wherever you want to go with very little fuel. Bear in mind also that a yacht’s insurance is more expensive than that of a sailboat. One of the main reasons is because it is classified as a yacht.

In addition to the boat’s price there are some other things to consider. The most important one is maintenance and repairs. A boat will always need these and it might need them once per month or once per year. It depends on the kind of repairs and on the way in which you “treat” your boat. Also, if you’re buying a used sailboat, you will need sometimes more research and more money for upgrades. It will be repainted, restored, and upgraded, although it will remain the same size. You should approach buying a boat in the same way that you would with a car. So, according to the size and kind of boat you want to buy, it’s important to keep in mind the price and extra costs as well.

While advanced marine electronics and navigation systems are available on some boats, they are more of a must for yachts. When doing transatlantic voyages, it is critical not only to be able to navigate with precision but also to be able to identify other boats or objects that you may not be able to see, as well as to comprehend your vessel’s performance.

When it comes to technology, it’s not just about whether you’re choosing a sailboat or a yacht. The age of the specific vessel is also something to consider. A sailboat that is more than ten years old may not be as technologically advanced as a brand new sailboat. Better technology can offer a lot of opportunities for you if you decide to buy a yacht. First and foremost, it can make working on your boat much more convenient. There’s no reason you couldn’t work remotely from your boat if you have the ability to set up a functional office with wifi.

Technology also brings up a lot of new possibilities for you when it comes to the act of sailing. A sailboat could traverse the Pacific or Atlantic, but it would be rather difficult. On the other hand, with a yacht, it can be a lot easier. In comparison to a sailboat, your yacht will have advanced navigational systems, warning and guidance systems, and many more safety features.

Sea, Lakes, or Rivers?

Bear in mind that in shallow waters, large yachts are unable to sail. A sailboat is a way to go if you plan on sailing in areas with shallow waters. In the Caribbean, for example, a yacht might be difficult to navigate. At the very least, it’ll be more difficult than sailing. A yacht, on the other hand, may travel to far more places than a sailboat.

A small sailboat might theoretically sail across the Atlantic. However, it can be quite risky, and your boat might not be able to withstand the strong winds and waves. Furthermore, if you’re aboard a sailboat, you can be the only one on board. This means that if the worst happens, far out at sea, there will be no one to aid you. You can do it, of course, but it is risky.

So, smaller boats may normally operate in calmer seas such as lakes, rivers, and shallow harbors. Larger boats, usually between 20 and 30 feet long, can equally navigate rougher ocean seas. A yacht, on the other hand, can sail in deeper ocean waters and handle more choppy seas. Yachts are significantly more ideal for lengthy ocean voyages due to their bigger size, high-tech electronics and guidance equipment, weather protection, and a variety of other characteristics.

>>Also Read: Sailing Vs Boating: Why Sailing Is Better

Sailboat and Yatch Construction

Depending on the anticipated scale of production, sailboat makers can fabricate their own parts or order them. Masts, sails, engines, and metal fittings are common items provided by specialty vendors. Boatbuilders, on the other hand, create their own fiberglass hulls, using Gel coat polyester resin, a catalyst for the resin, woven fiberglass roving, and fiberglass. Wooden hull manufacturers create and shape their own wood in the same way. Note that the main building materials used in boat construction are aluminum, metal, wood, and fiberglass. The unique structure of each material offers a different design and usage as well as additional features to the way in which the boat is built.

Material considerations are important, whether they affect the cost or the durability of the product. Fiberglass, carbon fiber, and metals such as titanium will also be used to construct a boat. On the contrary, a sailboat will most likely be composed of wood or fiberglass. So, in case you value safety and sturdiness above all else, and money isn’t a big issue, a yacht will be significantly safer for you.

The material can also influence the way in which you make repairs. For instance, a wooden boat is much easier to repair than a metal boat. You can make some simple and quick repairs using wood, and they’ll probably last till you get to a marina. To do major repairs on a yacht, you’ll need a lot of specialized equipment and knowledge. Moreover, you may need to ask for a crew member to help you with this.

Sailboat Vs Yacht – Summary

As you can see there are many differences between a sailboat and a yacht. Nowadays many people tend to confuse or don’t be aware of the exact meaning and differences of these vessels, and it’s normal. But, we, as sailors, have to know the differences in order to understand which kind of boat is right for us. For example, if you want big spaces, luxury, or intend to liveaboard then you should opt for a yacht. But, if you want to experience the true joy of sailing, sail anywhere without worrying about polluting the environment or spending too much on fuel, then go for a sailboat! It will entirely depend on your needs and preferences so weigh the pros and cons of each one before making the decision.

In any case, I hope that you have now clarified the differences between these two and that you will make the right choice. I wish you all safe & enjoyable voyages!

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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August 2024

In the August 2024 issue of Yachting World magazine: News Few finish a tempestuous Round The Island Race European rules are eased for cruising to France and Greece Olympic sailing…

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

Starlink for yachts: true remote connection for your boat

• November 17, 2022

Phil Johnson looks at Starlink for cruising sailors and asks if internet everywhere and remote switching is set to revolutionise the boating world

Imagine you’re peacefully anchored in a tight cove on the lee of some remote uninhabited island with zero mobile phone reception. But you unexpectedly need to speak with family or a colleague about something important – so you chat by FaceTime. Then you spend the evening streaming a film on Netflix. You don’t even stop to check your connection.

This scenario is getting closer to reality for some cruisers with the release of Starlink RV and Maritime versions. Starlink promises truly unlimited broadband satellite internet service without breaking the bank – but is it really the perfect solution on board?

Starlink is the first in a new generation of low-earth orbiting satellite communications services that promise to deliver low-latency, broadband internet everywhere. Developed by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, Starlink has launched over 2,500 satellites to date – spread out in a diagonal web flying across our horizon. To connect with the network, users purchase a satellite dish (the so called ‘Dishy McFlatface’) and wifi router, assisted by an app downloaded on their phone.

In other words, just plug in the satellite dish and “Boom! you’ve got lightning fast internet everywhere you want to sail!” Or at least that’s the sales pitch that my wife and co-skipper, Roxy, gave me after ordering a Starlink RV unit to install on our 1986 Cheoy Lee Pedrick 47, Sonder, which we’ve called home for nearly four years while living and working remotely.

Taking delivery of Starlink.

Around two months ago a large cardboard box from Starlink arrived. With excitement, we tore into it and put Dishy with its heavy four-legged stand straight on top of the deck, connecting the 75ft cable to the router – which also serves as the power supply – and opened the app to configure. The whole process took all of five minutes and soon the dish’s motor stirred to life, tilting the antennae from one side of the horizon to the other.

From our relatively remote anchorage on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, we were instantly getting download speeds of over 100 Mbps – far exceeding that of the local LTE cellular network. Impressed by our experience, I asked some other sailors using Starlink RV to see if they too had positive results.

Lain and Brioni Cameron are currently cruising the Caribbean aboard their Leopard 47 catamaran Indioko while documenting their adventures on the YouTube channel RedSeas . Since installing Starlink, the bandwidth and reliability is so good they’ve started a video conferencing collaboration with other YouTubers, something that “simply couldn’t have been done under 4G solutions,” notes Lain.

Like us, they previously used a combination of range boosters, wifi reachers, and cell phone hotspots to manage their digital life, but still found themselves occasionally going to shore “in search of a cafe with reasonable wifi connection.” Since testing Starlink successfully at anchor between St Martin and Grenada, that’s a habit they’ve been able to break.

But it’s not just the Mediterranean and Caribbean. Dave and Amy Freeman video conference with kids in schools from the rugged coastline anchorages of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, in part using Starlink. They run the non-profit Wilderness Classroom, teaching the natural world while sailing aboard their 35ft steel gaff-rigged cutter Iron Bark. Before Starlink, they say: “We found some locations had a signal that was too weak for us to video conference with schools.” Now they’ve used Starlink reliably all around Newfoundland and Southern Labrador.

The first installation using the stand

The fine print

This might all sound brilliant, but what’s the cost and fine print? Starlink RV is a non-geofenced version of the original Starlink. This means you can use it anywhere within the continent it is shipped, and use it outside the country of initial use for up to 60 days at a time. If you’re using Starlink past the 60-day time limit you’ll need to change the country associated with the account.

However, while Starlink RV includes ‘mobility’ (ie the ability to use the dish in locations other than the address it’s registered to) it does not support ‘in-motion use’ from, say, a moving vehicle or yacht. The terms make it clear that such use will void your warranty. The support page says: “While our teams are actively working to make it possible to use Starlink on moving vehicles (eg automobiles, RV or campervans, boats), Starlink is not yet configured to be safely used in this way.”

Furthermore, there are still dead zones around the world where Starlink either doesn’t yet have licensing approval or the location is too distant from supporting ground stations for the satellites to relay your connection. For the moment, this includes the open ocean, although I’ve heard anecdotally of RV users getting service on passages such as in the middle of the Mediterranean and across the Bay of Biscay. You can check the coverage maps for both RV and Maritime users at starlink.com/map, which also shows the dates for planned expansion roll-out.

There are some other considerations to make. Dishy is not a passive antennae like on an Iridium sat phone, it’s a power hungry phased-array antennae. I measured 40-50Wh in initial testing. And while it’s relatively weatherproof, the system is cumbersome to set up on deck unless you mount Dishy out of the way of rigging. As the crew of Indioko commented: “We see Starlink as a work and entertainment system rather than a replacement for safety systems like Iridium.”

The Freemans also keep their Dishy stowed below decks while under way.

Starlink has released a Maritime version geared towards commercial use. The upgrade comes with two professionally installed dishes, and promises soon-to-be-global coverage using satellite cross-link technology to expand range further into the oceans. This package, though, comes at a significant price hike: $10,000 of hardware and $5,000 per month of service. This version is suitable for superyachts, cruise ships, and tankers. By comparison, Starlink RV has one-time hardware costs of $599 and unlimited data at $135 per month.

For most cruising sailors needing reliable internet in remote anchorages around Europe and North America, the RV service will cover their needs. In two months of using our new Starlink, we’ve been up and down the coasts of Croatia and across the Adriatic to Italy without service ever dropping. The network speeds have been equal or faster than the mobile service offered in these places. For us, as remote workers that need consistent and fast internet everyday to run our e-commerce business, Starlink has been nothing short of a game changer for our cruising plans.

NASA has expressed concern that Starlink satellites could cause a “significant increase in the frequency of conjunction events and possible impacts to NASA’s missions”

Truly remote

Since we moved aboard in 2018, ‘getting connected’ has been a constant effort. Island hopping between different Caribbean countries required maintaining half a dozen local SIM cards, each with different confusing data plans. When we sailed the remote Hebrides I’d be steering into lochs nervously looking at both our navigation chart and our cellular signal levels. The stress of not having a reliable go-anywhere alternative adds a cautionary asterisk when advising others about a ‘workaboard’ life.

That outlook is thankfully starting to change. “Feeling more freedom to anchor where we want rather than feeling the need to be next to a cell tower when we are working,” is how the Freemans put it. Farther-flung cruising destinations like the Pacific or high latitudes, where traditional workaboards couldn’t dream of sailing, are potentially in reach once Starlink builds out its satellite network. I write this article anchored in the remote Kornati islands of Croatia – a place devoid of cell reception that two months ago, before Starlink, we couldn’t have stayed in for any length of time.

Starlink hacks

It’s still early days for this technology so sailors have been getting creative to adapt the RV version of Starlink, which was designed for campervans and similar, to use on yachts. There are several Facebook groups where users share ‘hacks’ for Starlink (all of which are strictly at owners’ risk and not condoned in any way).

A popular, though warranty-voiding, solution is to disable the actuating motor by drilling into the back of the unit. This keeps the antenna stationary and pointing straight up, reducing power consumption while making it easier to mount. In some cases, this also seems to reduce intermittent dropouts in the signal.

Dave and Amy Freeman are live-linking with schools from remote areas of Newfoundland

Dropouts can also occur from blockages in the horizon, as the crew of Iron Bark experienced when anchored near very steep cliffs. We found our Starlink fits perfectly into a fishing rod holder mounted on the stainless steel arch above our bimini top. Its position allows an open view of the horizon that’s clear of all rigging and other electronics. Iain and Brioni of Indioko plan to fabricate two-mounting positions using a 3D printer, one for either hull of their catamaran. This way they can place Dishy on the “preferred side of the boat for clear views of the sky”.

Another much-talked-about hack is modifying the power supply to run on DC power from the house batteries rather than AC power from an inverter. This modification requires cannibalising the router to build your own power over ethernet (POE) board (beyond the technical grasp of me!), but has reportedly further reduced Dishy’s power consumption for some users.

Race for the skies

There are further options just over the horizon that should offer more ‘plug & play’ solutions. OneWeb is promising to compete with Starlink, with a service due to start in 2023. Amazon has pledged to build its own low-earth orbit network, while established satcom companies Iridium and ViaSat are also upgrading their networks.

Things are changing fast with this burgeoning industry. In just the span of a few years, we’ve gone from hoisting a cellphone up the mast in a dry bag for reception to not even thinking about how we might get online when sailing for a remote anchorage.

If you enjoyed this….

Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

How do solo sailors sleep at sea? Experts share their tips and advice

• February 27, 2024

When Andy Pag was planning a 450-mile solo passage, sleep was the biggest source of worry. Here’s how he created an effective solo sleep routine

When I was planning my first solo offshore sail on my Lagoon 410 Cushla , from Grenada to Bonaire, my biggest concern was not the risk of pirates off the coast of Trinidad, or the night-time squalls that might sneak up unseen in the trade winds. Even the risk of falling overboard and watching the boat sail away as I drifted alone in the current wasn’t giving me restless nights. The concern I was losing sleep over was sleep, and how I could ensure I’d get enough sleep when stewarding the boat on the four-night passage.

I know I don’t function well when suffering from a lack of sleep. I get irritable and make bad decisions. More specifically, I struggle to distil the relevant factors from everything going on around me when making vital decisions. My forward-planning goes out of the window and my actions become reactions to the most obvious and immediate factors. It’s not a good mental state to be in when the wrong decision can be costly, cause injury and sometimes be fatal.

Coincidentally, the Grenada Hash, an orienteering event held weekly around the island, was useful training. During the first weeks of participating on the run, I found the combination of being physically tired and having to make navigation decisions very frustrating, but over time I developed the skill of dedicating bodily energy and time to thinking and decision-making. Practising that mental shift was very useful when tired at sea.

Professional sailors, like 2018-19 Golden Globe Race winner Jean-Luc Van Den Heede, know that prioritising sleep is essential when making vital decisions. Photo: Christophe Favreau/PPL/GGR

Short naps when solo sailing

I do find it easy and beneficial to nap, and on the advice of a friend I downloaded an app called Interval Timer onto the boat’s tablet. It sounds regular alarms throughout the day. I set this to go off every 15, 30 or 45 minutes, depending on the circumstances, but importantly I let it run day and night so whenever I felt I could sleep I would just lie down, knowing I’d be woken within the given timeframe.

With clear skies, no traffic and far from land I set it to a longer interval, and shortened it when circumstances changed.

I tried to make life easier for myself and simplify processes I’d need to do when I knew I’d be tired by making checklists on post-it notes stuck around the boat.

Keep your energy levels up with decent meals, hot drinks and plentiful snacks. Photo: Yachting Monthly

Fuel yourself properly

Food and water are important ingredients for getting good sleep. My sleep is light and fitful on an empty stomach, and my decision making is also affected when I’m hungry or dehydrated. I made sure I had easy access to water with bottles dotted around the boat in easy reach. I didn’t drink coffee, and instead of brewing a cup of tea whenever I felt sleepy, I’d just take a nap.

I created a big snack basket that lived in the companionway containing mixed nuts, biscuits and fruit, and I kept chocolate in the fridge to give me an energy hit whenever I felt foggy or lethargic. I also made a habit of cooking meals in advance that would just need reheating or could be eaten cold from the fridge.

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Clutter-free sleep zone

Having a comfy place to sleep also helped. I find it tempting to share the bed with whatever clutter I can’t be bothered to put away, but I put a mattress in the cockpit and kept it clear of mess to remove distractions from sleep. Away from an internet signal it was easy to resist the temptation for screen time when lying down.

An eye mask also helped prolong sleep at dawn, and made it easier to doze off in the middle of the day. I developed a Pavlovian response to the snugness of the mask which helped trigger a deep sleep whenever I grabbed it and put it on.

Reduce backlighting on your instruments, and turn off any that you don’t need. Photo: Graham Snook/Yachting Monthly

Power is instrumental

As well as keeping your own batteries charged, the boat batteries also need to have reliable charge. As the power drains, the autopilot can become unreliable, disconnecting at low voltage. Cushla, our 1998 Lagoon 410, has 1kW of solar panels and although we can, we’ve never needed to charge the house batteries from the engines or shore power. But overnight passages are the toughest test of the system.

The sails can create shading on the panels for several hours of the day, and running the instruments 24/7 is a significant drain, especially the radar which can draw three or four amps when operating, and even draws a couple of amps when in standby mode.

Make yourself sort problems straight away, rather than leaving them for later when they can compound. Photo: Andy Pag

The boat has an AIS transponder, and offshore I felt pretty confident that other traffic would also be transmitting an AIS signal to fire my proximity alarm. Radar is useful for spotting rain squalls at night or when low cloud masks approaching rain.

I made the mistake of not learning how to set the proximity alarm on my Raymarine C80 chart plotter in advance, and when I came to do it for the first time, I found it frustratingly unintuitive. Lesson learned; become familiar and practiced with the menu functions you will need before setting off.

Don’t put things off

If anything was niggling on my mind it would stop me falling asleep so I’d make sure to deal with anything that could cause me anxiety; tidying the lines, checking the course heading, and a final, slow 360° sweep for traffic or weather. Picking a weather window where squalls would be less likely and using a modest sail plan that was easy to manage also reduced my anxieties.

I felt exhausted as I finally pulled in to the moorings of Bonaire, but not as tired as I thought I would be. The satisfaction of self-reliance, completing 440 miles solo, and the connection with the sea I experienced alone offshore are all highlights of my time as a solo skipper, and the sail will remain a formative experience.

Jean-Luc Van Den Heede

Jean-Luc Van Den Heede’s solo sailor sleep advice

Jean-Luc Van Den Heede holds the record for the fastest westward circumnavigation, sailing it solo, faster than any crewed boat. He is 77.

‘I always try to sleep enough. I sleep for 90mins and wake to check everything’s ok, and if there’s a job to do, I do it. Or I go back to sleep. ‘In 1991 researchers measured my sleep cycle with 16 electrodes over two days. People looked at me funny going around town with wires on my head.

‘But that’s how they came up with the 90-minute figure. I do it even when I have crew. It really works for me.

‘I can wake immediately and be able to do anything in two seconds. It’s a characteristic of mine, but it’s developed over time sailing alone. It wasn’t like that in the beginning when I started my first solo navigation. Now I can sleep at any time. In three to five minutes I’m sleeping, even at three in the afternoon. I just close my eyes, empty my head and that’s it.

‘In long races like the Golden Globe Race it’s good to have a good rest, and good sleep. Always be sure your mind is ok. The main problem on the GGR, was when the wind shifts, the boat changes heading.

‘If you’re cruising offshore, today with a good AIS alarm and a windspeed alarm, you can sleep a long time. Four hours is no problem. But if you’re close to shore, you have to be awake because of fishermen and sailing boats without AIS.

‘It’s important to stay optimistic. If you’re afraid of something you cannot sleep. It’s better to be in good shape at the end of the storm or low pressure, so it’s important to have a good rest before, and not to be tired when the wind is strong. I try to sleep at the start of storm, and to be in good shape when it is in the final phase.’

Laura Dekker

Laura Dekker’s solo sailor sleep advice

Laura Dekker sailed around the world solo aged just 14. She now teaches young people ocean sailing and personal development.

‘I am always very conscious of every action I take on board; every sound, every movement – anything strange. I try not to jump to conclusions before checking out all the factors.

‘If I am very sleep deprived my brain sort of fogs up and things go through my mind much slower then normal. But I do take heed to still go through the whole process before making a decision and not just jump ahead because it’s taking too long.

‘I sleep when I can, no matter what time of the day or how long it may be, including lots of 10-minute naps. I will always put rest and sleep ahead of anything “fun” I may have had in mind, so it goes ahead of reading or playing music, for example.

‘Never think “Oh I will sleep later,” if you can sleep now. Things change very quickly at sea and there’s a chance you may not be able to sleep for a long time.

‘Set multiple alarms for which you have to get out of bed to turn off. It’s just too easy to sleep through or fall asleep again.

‘There’s often only a need to check around quickly in between naps, so sleep for 30 mins, wake up, check the horizon, course and sails. At night, shine a torch around your rigging – this takes about 10 minutes, then sleep another 30 minutes.

‘The longest I ever slept in one stretch is one hour, that is with clear visibility on open sea. Big ships travel between 15-20 knots. Visibility at sea when it’s good is no more then 10 miles, so in theory, in 30 minutes you can go from not seeing it to being run over. Better to wake up more often and check quickly then go back to sleep. Close to shore this problem gets worse as there are often little boats with minimal lights that can only be seen from a mile.’

Understanding sleep cycles helps when planning how long to sleep for. Photo: Andy Pag

What the scientists say

When you’re asleep you cycle through four stages of sleep. Three non-REM phases (N1, N2 and N3) and REM sleep. The first one, N1 is nodding off, the second is preparing you for deep sleep, and N3 is where the brain, bones and muscles fully relax and do their healing and get reset for the next period of wakefulness.

In N3 you are hardest to wake and can even sleep through loud noises or the boat jolting. If you are woken from N3, you may feel foggy for up to half an hour. REM sleep is a lighter stage of sleep but it’s when you dream. Your body immobilises itself so you don’t physically act out those dreams.

During an uninterrupted night’s sleep most people cycle through the four stages every 90-110 mins.

Research published in 2007 showed being sleep-deprived leads to riskier decision making and a more blasé attitude to things going wrong.

What the law says about solo sailing

Colregs Rule 5 states: ‘Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision.’

So ask yourself, if something went wrong, and you were asleep or sleep-deprived, could you justify your actions as appropriate for the circumstances?

If you enjoyed this….

Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.

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Can a yacht be sailed anywhere?

A yacht, by its very definition, is a large and luxurious sailing vessel that’s designed for pleasure cruises on lakes, rivers, or oceans. While yachts are built to provide comfort, style, and elegance to its passengers, they’re also constructed to be highly functional vessels that can be sailed anywhere from calm lakes to rough and tumultuous seas.

So, the answer to the question “?” is yes – but it also depends on a few variables.

Firstly, yachts come in different sizes and types, and each type is designed for specific purposes. Some yachts are built for cruising shallow waters, and some are designed for ocean crossings. Therefore, a small, shallow-draft yacht may have difficulty sailing on deep and turbulent waters, while a larger yacht with a hull specifically designed for ocean voyages will be more equipped to handle extreme weather conditions.

Secondly, the yacht’s crew’s skills and experience are vital for ensuring the vessel’s safe and successful journey. Before sailing, it’s essential to make sure that the crew has the right qualifications and training to handle the yacht in any circumstance, be it navigation or sail trimming.

Thirdly, navigation and weather conditions play a huge part in determining a yacht’s sailing range. A yacht may be able to sail anywhere, but weather patterns, tides, and visibility can limit the vessel’s operational range. Adequate planning is therefore necessary to ensure that the yacht is always sailing in safe and favorable weather conditions.

Lastly, a yacht’s cruising permits and regulations have to be taken heed of to avoid any legal complications or hurdles. Some areas may have restrictions on vessel sizes and permits, which would make sailing a yacht in such areas impossible.

Sailing yachts have evolved tremendously over the years from the luxurious but impractical vessels to practical, functional and maneuverable sea crafts that can sail almost anywhere. However, it is essential to consider the factors discussed above when planning a yacht journey. This will ensure your voyage is not only luxurious but also safe and hassle-free.

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Navigating the Heat: 10 Safety Tips for a Safe Boat Ride in the Summer Heat

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7 Hotels Where You Can Set Sail on a Private Yacht

Planning a holiday typically means choosing between land and sea, between the stationary (and often more spacious and social) and the untethered (and usually more secluded and intimate.) But now, some properties are offering the best of both worlds. In Ibiza, ride a mountain bike through a pine forest, then see more of the island’s natural wonders—dramatic coastline and hidden-gem coves—from aboard a Monohull sailing yacht. Or sleep in the clouds in London, and then take in the city’s iconic skyline from an Azimut yacht on the Thames. Properties offering these private experiences are tapping into the growing global yacht industry, valued at $16.9 billion in 2021 and expected to top $26 billion by 2027. From New York City to Tuscany and beyond, here are seven luxury hotels where you can also set sail. Why choose?

Mayakoba, Mexico

Set along Mexico’s Riviera Maya, Mayakoba is a gated 595-acre enclave, home to four hotels— Banyan Tree Mayakoba , Rosewood Mayakoba , Andaz Mayakoba , and Fairmont Mayakoba —each with access to private yacht charters on Mayakoba’s Van Dutch Yacht . The 55-foot vessel, kitted out with Hermes leather seats, two bedrooms, and a full kitchen and bathroom, can accommodate up to eight guests for a range of bespoke excursions. And en route to destinations like Cozumel or Playa del Carmen, sunseekers can take advantage of activities like scuba diving, jet skiing, and gliding through the Caribbean with an underwater scooter. (From $3,100 to $11,000, changing seasonally, for four- to eight-hour excursions)  

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Borgo San Pietro, Italy

Although it’s miles from Italy’s coast, Borgo Santo Pietro makes it a breeze to get out on the beautiful Tyrrhenian Sea. The couple behind the historic Tuscan property, known for its organic farm and gardens and holistic spa, also owns Satori Yacht , allowing travelers the ultimate land and sea holiday. On board the 42-meter custom-made vessel, up to 10 guests can choose their own adventures, tapping the Satori ‘s captain and Borgo Santo Pietro concierge team to plot out an outing among the offerings: fine dining, spa treatments, cultural expeditions, watersports of all kinds, and even an onboard cinema under the stars. (From about $108,000)

The Mark Hotel, New York City

In the heart of the Upper East Side, not far from Central Park’s famed Conservatory Water pond dotted with toy sailboats, The Mark Hotel is home to plush, Art Deco-inspired rooms, elegant restaurants, and access to a sailboat of its own. Guests embark from Tribeca’s North Cove Marina for a two-hour private charter aboard the 70-foot Herreshoff sailboat, which can accommodate up to 25 for cocktails, a custom menu from one of the property’s restaurants (including Caviar Kaspia or the eponymous fine dining spot helmed by Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten) and spectacular views of the Statue of Liberty. (From $7,000 for a private excursion)

Six Senses Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza may be best known for its thrumming nightlife, but those after a little tranquility may find it at sea. On the hills overlooking the Balearic, Six Senses Ibiza offers access to such calm aboard one of several vessels in its portfolio, including a Monohull sailing yacht, a Scanner Envy 950, and a Solar Catamaran, powered by solar panels. A full- or half-day trip launches from Xarraca Bay to explore secluded coves and secret beaches where those-in-the-know go for a perfect combination of relaxation and stunning scenery. (From about $950)

Shangri-La London, England

To celebrate its tenth anniversary this year, Shangri-La The Shard, London is splashing out. The tallest hotel in Western Europe, which occupies levels 34 to 52 of the Shard, has collaborated with luxury yacht Illuminate on a private excursion to tour the city’s iconic skyline from the River Thames. Onboard the sleek, Italian-designed Azimut yacht, one of the only vessels of its kind in London, guests can opt for afternoon tea akin to the one served at the hotel’s TĪNG restaurant or choose a custom menu prepared by a Michelin-trained private chef. Take a seat on the open-air top deck for the best views of the London Eye, Big Ben, and the Shard, and marvel at how Renzo Piano’s 1,016-foot skyscraper forever changed the city’s skyline when it was unveiled a decade ago. (From about $3,850 for a two-hour cruise)

The Charleston Place, South Carolina

With plenty of picturesque coastline to explore, it’s not hard to find a vessel to take you out on the water in Charleston. But in the charming South Carolina city, you’ll only find one Hinckley EP Picnic Boat available for charter. At The Charleston Place , guests of the elegant boutique property can board Moonrise , crafted by the iconic American shipbuilder, for a private sunset tour, or to spend the day off the coast of one of the city’s beautiful barrier islands. (From $1,100 for a two-hour excursion for up to six guests)

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Dubai

Towering over 1,000 feet, Burj Al Arab Jumeira has been a sailboat-inspired jewel on Dubai’s Arabian Gulf for 25 years. And now, thanks to a recently-launched partnership with Beno Luxury YachtRental , guests can add a sailing experience to their stay, too. Among the fleet of four yachts on offer, the 115-foot Santorini Superyacht can accommodate up to 80 guests for a  two-, three-, or four-hour jaunt that can include a butler, DJ, and custom catering from the property. (From $4,083 per hour)

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Here's what we know about why a luxury sailing boat sank off the coast of Sicily

Emergency workers in southern Italy are still hunting for six people missing after a tornado sank a luxury yacht early Monday - prompting an air and naval operation off the coast of Sicily.

Fifteen people were rescued from the wreckage, according to Italy's Coast Guard. One body was recovered on Monday and four more on Wednesday, after divers struggled to reach deep inside the yacht around 50 meters underwater (approximately 150 feet).

Two Americans and four Britons were among the six initially reported missing - including British tech tycoon Mike Lynch, Jonathan Bloomer, chairman of Morgan Stanley International, and Chris Morvillo, a prominent lawyer.

Here's what we know.

What happened?

A small waterspout - a type of tornado - spun over the Mediterranean island early Monday, likely capsizing the sailing boat amid lashings of rain and strong thunderstorms.

The British-flagged yacht, called the "Bayesian," was anchored about a half a mile from the port of Porticello, on Sicily's northern coast. The vessel sank after its mast broke in half in the storm, Salvatore Cocina, head of Sicily's Civil Protection, told CNN on Tuesday.

Eyewitnesses described furious gales and hurricane-like winds that left an avalanche of debris near the pier.

More than a dozen survivors were spotted in the area hanging onto life rafts, according to the captain of a nearby boat, who steadied his ship to avoid colliding with the Bayesian.

"We got this strong hurricane gust and we had to start the engine to keep the ship in an angled position," Karsten Bower told reporters in Palermo on Monday. "After the storm was over, we noticed that the ship behind us was gone."

Bower and his crew rescued four injured people, he said, before calling Italy's Coast Guard - who later rescued the remaining survivors.

One of those rescued - a child - was airlifted to the children's hospital in Palermo. Eight people were hospitalized in total, according to the mayor's office.

The girl's mother, Charlotte, described how she battled to hold onto Sofia, her 1-year-old daughter, as reported by Italian news agency ANSA.

"In two seconds I lost the baby in the sea, then I immediately hugged her again amidst the fury of the waves. I held her tightly, close to me, while the sea was stormy," she told journalists. "Many were screaming."

The mother and daughter were later reunited with the father, James, according to a doctor at the local children's hospital in Palermo.

"The survivors are very tired and are constantly asking about the missing people," the doctor, Domenico Cipolla, said Monday. "They are talking and crying all the time because they have realized that there is little hope of finding their friends alive."

Italy's fire brigade dispatched helicopters to aid in the search, officials said Monday. After an unsuccessful attempt on Monday, the brigade sent divers to try and enter the sunken ship Tuesday, recommencing the operation on Wednesday.

The depth of the wreck means divers can only work there for limited periods of time, according to Marco Tilotta, an inspector for the diving unit of Palermo's local fire brigade. The Italian fire brigade said Monday its divers had reached the yacht's hull 49 meters (160 feet) below sea level.

The United Kingdom's Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) said it has deployed a team of four inspectors to Palermo which is conducting a preliminary assessment of the scene.

Who was on board?

Twenty-two people were on board the Bayesian, which was flying under a British flag and had mostly British passengers and crew, in addition to two Anglo-French, one Irish and one Sri Lankan person, a spokesperson for Italy's Coast Guard told CNN.

A troupe of high-profile guests are among those missing, including Lynch, the 59-year-old British tech investor who fought a fraud case earlier this year in the United States - which spiraled from the disastrous $11 billion sale of his company to tech firm Hewlett-Packard (HP) in 2011.

His 18-year-old daughter was also named missing. Lynch's wife, Angela Bacares, survived the accident. Bacares told Italian daily newspaper La Repubblica that she woke up at 4 a.m. local time, as the boat tilted. She and her husband were not initially concerned, she said, but became worried when the windows of the yacht shattered and chaos erupted.

RELATED: Divers find 4 bodies during search of superyacht wreckage after it sank off Sicily, 2 still missing

Bacares spoke to the newspaper while sitting in a wheelchair, at a hospital in the Sicilian town of Termini Imerese. She had abrasions on her feet and bandages on other parts of her body, it reported.

Bloomer, the finance tycoon, and Morvillo, a prominent lawyer - and both their wives - are also among the missing, according to Salvatore Cocina, head of Sicily's Civil Protection.

Morvillo, an American partner at Clifford Chance, was involved in successfully defeating the US fraud case against Lynch in June. Another employee of the firm, Ayla Ronald, and her partner, survived the incident, according to a spokesperson for Clifford Chance.

The body that was recovered from the vessel on Monday was identified as the onboard chef Ricardo Thomas, an Antiguan citizen, Reuters reported.

What do we know about the boat?

Built in 2008, the 56-meter (184-foot) yacht was manufactured by Italian company Perini Navi, Reuters reported. According to the Associated Press, the boat has been available for charter for $215,000 (195,000) per week.

Lynch's wife is linked to the yacht. The Bayesian is held by the company Revtom Limited, according to records from the maritime information service Equasis. The company's latest annual return from April lists Bacares as the proprietor.

"Bayesian," the name given to the vessel, is linked to the statistical theory on which Lynch built his fortune, according to Reuters.

The yacht's mast stood 72.27 meters (237 feet) high above the designated water line, just short of the world's tallest mast which is 75.2 meters, according to Guinness World Records. It was the tallest aluminium mast in the world, the Perini Navi website said.

Perini Navi is known for making "good quality boats," according to Caroline White, deputy editor of BOAT International, a media group serving the superyacht industry.

White told CNN that if the Bayesian dismasted, "it should theoretically become more stable." "But it might be a different story if you are in the middle of a violent storm with incredibly strong winds pinning you to the water," she added.

Dangerous weather conditions

Strong storms across Sicily brought torrential rainfall late Sunday. Initial reports suggest a small waterspout, which developed over the area Monday morning, could have been behind the yacht's sinking.

Waterspouts - one of several types of tornadoes - are spinning columns of air that form over water, or move from land out to water. They are often accompanied by high winds, high seas, hail and dangerous lightning. While they are most common over tropical oceans, they can form almost anywhere.

Matthew Schanck, chair of the Maritime Search and Rescue Council, told CNN that while waterspouts in Sicily are rare, "there is a risk" they can happen - just not every day.

Waterspouts rely on warm waters to gain energy and the Mediterranean Sea has been very hot, reaching a record daily median of 28.9 degrees Celsius (84 Fahrenheit) last week, according to preliminary data from researchers at the Institute of Marine Sciences in Spain.

Local temperatures have been even higher, with waters around Sicily reaching almost 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit), almost 3 degrees more than normal, Italian climatologist Luca Mercalli told CNN.

"Warmer oceans have more energy and more humidity to transfer to the atmosphere, the most important fuels for storms," he said.

(The-CNN-Wire & 2024 Cable News Network, Inc., a Time Warner Company. All rights reserved.)

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Lynch Yacht Sinking Off Sicily Proves as Baffling as It Is Tragic

As bodies were recovered, the authorities and experts wondered how a $40 million, stable and secure vessel could have sunk so quickly.

• Share full article

By Emma Bubola and Michael J. de la Merced

Emma Bubola reported from Porticello, Italy, and Michael J. de la Merced from London.

Two months after being cleared in a bruising legal battle over fraud charges, the British tech mogul Mike Lynch celebrated his freedom with a cruise. He invited his family, friends and part of his legal team on board his luxury sailing yacht, a majestic 180-foot vessel named Bayesian after the mathematical theorem around which he had built his empire.

On Sunday night, after a tour of the Gulf of Naples, including Capri, and volcanic islands in the Eolian archipelago, the boat anchored half a mile off the Sicilian coast in Porticello, Italy. It chose a stretch of water favored by the Phoenicians thousands of years ago for its protection from the mistral wind and, in more recent times, by the yachts of tech billionaires. The boat was lit “like a Christmas tree,” local residents said, standing out against the full moon.

But about 4 a.m., calamity unfolded. A violent and fast storm hit the area with some of the strongest winds locals said they had ever felt. Fabio Cefalù, a fisherman, said he saw a flare pierce the darkness shortly after 4.

Minutes later, the yacht was underwater. Only dozens of cushions from the boat’s deck and a gigantic radar from its mast floated on the surface of the sea, fishermen said.

In all, 22 people were on board, 15 of whom were rescued. Six bodies — five passengers and the ship’s cook — had been recovered by Thursday afternoon, including that of Mr. Lynch, an Italian government official said, adding that the search was continuing for his daughter.

It was a tragic and mystifying turn of events for Mr. Lynch, 59, who had spent years seeking to clear his name and was finally inaugurating a new chapter in his life. Experts wondered how a $40 million yacht, so robust and stable could have been sunk by a storm near a port within minutes.

“It drives me insane,” said Giovanni Costantino, the chief executive of the Italian Sea Group, which in 2022 bought the company, Perini, that made the Bayesian. “Following all the proper procedures, that boat is unsinkable.”

The aura of misfortune only deepened when it emerged that Stephen Chamberlain, 52, a former vice president of finance for Mr. Lynch’s former company and a co-defendant in the fraud case, was killed two days earlier, when he was hit by a car while jogging near his house in England.

Since June, the two men had been in a jubilant mood. A jury in San Francisco had acquitted both on fraud charges that could have sent them to prison for two decades. There were hugs and tears, and they and their legal teams went for a celebratory dinner party at a restaurant in the city, said Gary S. Lincenberg, a lawyer for Mr. Chamberlain.

The sea excursion was meant as a thank-you by Mr. Lynch to those who had helped him in his legal travails. Among the guests was Christopher J. Morvillo, 59, a scion of a prominent New York family of lawyers who had represented Mr. Lynch for 12 years. He and his wife, Neda, 57, were among the missing.

So, too, was Jonathan Bloomer, 70, a veteran British insurance executive who chaired Morgan Stanley International and the insurer Hiscox.

The body of the ship’s cook, Recaldo Thomas, was recovered. All the other crew members survived. Among them was Leo Eppel, 19, of South Africa, who was on his first yacht voyage working as a deck steward, said a friend, who asked not to be identified.

Since the sinking, the recovery effort and investigation have turned the tiny port town of Porticello, a quiet enclave where older men sit bare-chested on balconies, into what feels like the set of a movie.

Helicopters have flown overhead. Ambulances have sped by with the sirens blaring. The Coast Guard has patrolled the waters off shore, within sight of a cordoned-off dock that had been turned into an emergency headquarters.

On Wednesday afternoon, a church bell tolled after the first body bag was loaded into an ambulance, a crowd watching in silence.

The survivors were sheltering in a sprawling resort near Porticello, with a view of the shipwreck spot, and had so far declined to comment.

Attilio Di Diodato, director of the Italian Air Force’s Center for Aerospace Meteorology and Climatology, said that the yacht had most likely been hit by a fierce “down burst” — when air generated within a thunderstorm descends rapidly — or by a waterspout , similar to a tornado over water.

He added that his agency had put out rough-sea warnings the previous evening, alerting sailors about storms and strong winds. Locals said the winds “felt like an earthquake.”

Mr. Costantino, the boat executive, said the yacht had been specifically designed for having a tall mast — the second-tallest aluminum mast in the world. He said the Bayesian was an extremely safe and secure boat that could list even to 75 degrees without capsizing.

But he said that if some of the hatches on the side and in the stern, or some of the deck doors, had been open, the boat could have taken on water and sunk. Standard procedure in such storms, he said, is to switch on the engine, lift the anchor and turn the boat into the wind, lowering the keel for extra stability, closing doors and gathering the guests in the main hall inside the deck.

12 guests occupied the yacht’s six cabins. There were also 10 crew members.

Open hatches, doors and cabin windows could have let in water during a storm, according to the manufacturer.

Open hatches, doors and

cabin windows could

have let in water

during a storm,

according to the

manufacturer.

Source: Superyacht Times, YachtCharterFleet, MarineTraffic

By Veronica Penney

The New York Times attempted to reach the captain, James Cutfield, who had survived, for comment through social media, his brother and the management company of the yacht (which did not hire the crew), but did not make contact.

So far none of the surviving crew members have made a public statement about what happened that night.

Fabio Genco, the director of Palermo’s emergency services, who treated some of the survivors, said that the victims had recounted feeling as if the boat was being lifted, then suddenly dropped, with objects from the cabins falling on them.

The Italian Coast Guard said it had deployed a remotely operated vehicle that can prowl underwater for up to seven hours at a depth of more than 980 feet and record videos and images that they hoped would help them reconstruct the dynamics of the sinking. Such devices were used during the search and rescue operations of the Titan vessel that is believed to have imploded last summer near the wreckage of the Titanic.

After rescuers broke inside the yacht, they struggled to navigate the ropes and many pieces of furniture cluttering the vessel, said Luca Cari, a spokesman for Italy’s national firefighter corps.

Finally, as of Thursday morning, they had managed to retrieve all but one of the missing bodies, and hopes of finding the missing person alive were thin. “Can a human being be underwater for two days?” Mr. Cari asked.

What was certain was that Mr. Lynch’s death was yet another cruel twist of fate for a man who had spent years seeking to clear his name.

He earned a fortune in technology and was nicknamed Britain’s Bill Gates. But for more than a decade, he had been treated as anything but a respected tech leader.

He was accused by Hewlett-Packard, the American technological pioneer that had bought his software company, Autonomy, for $11 billion, of misleading it about his company’s worth. (Hewlett-Packard wrote down the value of the transaction by about $8.8 billion, and critics called it one of the worst deals of all time .) He had been increasingly shunned by the British establishment that he sought to break into after growing up working-class outside London.

He was extradited to San Francisco to face criminal charges, and confined to house arrest and 24-hour surveillance on his dime. In a townhouse in the Pacific Heights neighborhood — with security people he jokingly told associates were his “roommates” — he spent his mornings talking with researchers whom he funded personally on new applications for artificial intelligence. Afterward, he devoted hours to discussing legal strategy with his team.

Despite his persistent claims of innocence, even those close to Mr. Lynch had believed his odds of victory were slim. Autonomy’s chief financial officer, Sushovan Hussain, was convicted in 2018 of similar fraud charges and spent five years in prison.

During Mr. Lynch’s house arrest, his brother and mother died. His wife, Angela Bacares, frequently flew over from England, and she became a constant presence in the San Francisco courtroom during the trial.

After he was finally acquitted, Mr. Lynch had his eye on the future. “I am looking forward to returning to the U.K. and getting back to what I love most: my family and innovating in my field,” he said.

Elisabetta Povoledo contributed reporting from Pallanza, Italy.

Emma Bubola is a Times reporter based in Rome. More about Emma Bubola

Michael J. de la Merced has covered global business and finance news for The Times since 2006. More about Michael J. de la Merced

The Best Way to Learn to Sail (With or Without Boat)

Did you know that you can learn to sail even if you don't have your own boat? There are many options available to help you develop your skills and build confidence on the water, and some of them don't cost money. This article will introduce you to these ways to learn to sail, with or without a boat.

To start learning to sail, you can try out dinghy sailing, which can help you quickly grasp the basics of sailing. If you don't have access to a boat, consider joining a local sailing club or enrolling in a sailing course through an organization like the American Sailing Association.

In addition to taking courses and joining clubs, you can also leverage online resources like free sailing courses, sailing simulator games, or even video tutorials to supplement your learning. So, anchor aweigh and get valuable hands-on experience and expert guidance.

• One of the basics of sailing you need to learn is operating the sails in different wind directions.
• Practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if you need some time to master the skills and techniques required to sail confidently.
• Invest in sailing courses and certifications, so you can enhance your skills, ensure your safety, and maximize your enjoyment of sailing adventures.
• Put yourself out there and take advantage of the resources and people available in sailing clubs.
• Regular practice and being part of a sailing community can greatly accelerate your learning process and make it a more enjoyable journey.

On this page:

Learn to sail with a boat, learn to sail without a boat, get started to learn to sail, practice makes perfect sailing, additional learning resources for sailing, progressing your sailing skills.

If you're lucky enough to have access to a boat, you can jump right into hands-on learning. Begin by familiarizing yourself with sailing theory, reading books and watching tutorials about sail trim, navigation, and boat safety for a solid foundation. Next, consider signing up for a sailing certification course to ensure you're learning sailing practices and techniques correctly.

Once you've got the basic theory down, it's time to get some hands-on experience by practicing on your boat. Start small—sail in calm waters and familiarize yourself with how the boat handles. As you gain confidence, you can gradually increase the difficulty of your sailing experience.

Understanding your boat : Before you set sail, it's important to understand the different parts of your boat and how they work. This includes the sails, mast, rigging, keel, rudder, and other components. You should also familiarize yourself with the boat's safety features, including life jackets, flares, and emergency equipment.

Basic sailing techniques : There are a few basic sailing techniques that every sailor should know. These include tacking (turning the boat into the wind), jibing (turning the boat away from the wind), and trimming the sails (adjusting the sails to catch the wind). You should also be familiar with the points of sail, which describe the different angles at which the boat can sail relative to the wind.

Wind direction : Understanding wind direction is crucial for sailing. You should always sail with the wind, and adjust your course and sails accordingly. Be aware of changes in wind direction, and adjust your sails and course as needed.

Navigation : Before setting sail, you should plan your route and be familiar with the waters you'll be sailing in. This includes understanding any hazards, such as rocks, shoals, or other boats. You should also be familiar with navigation tools, such as charts, compasses, and GPS devices.

Safety : Safety should always be your top priority when sailing. This includes wearing life jackets, using safety equipment, and following basic sailing rules and procedures. Always be aware of weather conditions, and be prepared to return to shore if conditions become unsafe.

Don't have access to a boat? That's okay; there are still plenty of ways you can learn to sail. Just like with a boat, you should begin by learning sailing theory. Use online resources and study materials to get a feel for sail trim, navigation, and boat safety.

Simulators and games : You might want to try a sailing simulator to get a sense of what it's like behind the helm. There are a variety of sailing simulators and games available that allow you to experience the thrill of sailing without leaving your home. These range from simple mobile games to more complex, realistic simulations that can be played on a computer or gaming console.

Virtual reality : Virtual reality technology has made it possible to experience sailing in a fully immersive way. With a VR headset, you can feel like you're actually on a boat, experiencing the sights, sounds, and sensations of sailing.

Charter options : There are many companies that offer boat charters, ranging from small sailboats to large luxury yachts. This allows you to experience the thrill of sailing without the expense and responsibility of owning a boat. You can also consider joining a sailing club or school. This will provide you with the opportunity to participate in sailing lessons and learn from experienced instructors. Some clubs may offer boat rentals, giving you the chance to practice on your own as well.

Crewing opportunities : Volunteer as crew on someone else's boat. Many sailing enthusiasts offer crewing opportunities, where you can join them on their boat and learn the ropes of sailing. Many boat owners are more than happy to have an extra hand on board, and it's a great way to learn from experienced sailors while gaining practical experience.

Understanding sailing basics

Familiarize yourself with key sailing terms , such as port, starboard, aft, and bow. You'll also want to understand how the wind interacts with the sails. Start by taking an online learn-to-sail course to see pictures and gain a clearer understanding of the boat's components and their functions. Another useful resource to learn the basics is the Sailing Basics course from Udemy .

Safety and equipment for sailing

Sailing requires proper safety precautions. Some necessary safety equipment includes life jackets, flares, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits. Ensure that all equipment is in good working condition before setting sail. Additionally, never go sailing without a skilled companion, especially when you're just starting.

For a practical approach to learning, consider trying dinghy sailing , which helps you quickly understand the basics of sailing and how sails work in different wind directions. If you're serious about advancing your sailing skills, consider joining the American Sailing Association to access live webinars and courses suited for different levels of sailors.

When it comes to choosing a sailboat, you'll want to start with one designed for beginners. Keep in mind that learning to sail a basic boat is relatively simple when you're in the right environment. Check out these best sailboats for beginners and consider renting or borrowing a boat to help you get started.

Regular sailing sessions

Try to fit regular sailing sessions into your schedule, as consistency is key to mastering the necessary skills. The more time you spend on the water, the better sailor you'll become. Be patient with yourself, and try to practice different sailing techniques each time you go out on the water. This will not only improve your sailing skills but also help you become more confident and comfortable sailing in various conditions.

Joining a sailing club to practice sailing

Sailing clubs bring together people who share a passion for sailing and are eager to learn from one another. This is a fantastic way to gain access to boats, meet experienced sailors, and benefit from regular practice sessions. Many clubs also offer training courses, and their members are usually more than willing to provide advice and share tips with beginners. Moreover, most sailing clubs organize races and social events, creating an enjoyable and supportive community for those looking to improve their skills.

Aside from hands-on training and formal courses, there are many other resources available to help you enhance your sailing skills and knowledge. In this section, we'll cover two main subcategories: Books and Online resources, and Sailing Forums and Communities.

Books and online resources to learn sailing

Sailing books and online resources can be a great way to learn about sailing techniques, safety measures, and even the history of sailing. One of the most popular online resources for learning to sail is NauticEd , where you'll find two free courses covering Basic Sail Trim and Rules of Prevention of Collision at Sea.

If you prefer a more traditional print-based approach, many books cater to all experience levels and cover various aspects of sailing. These books can be a treasure trove of knowledge, including some that focus on sailing-specific topics like weather, navigation, and even maintenance advice for your boat.

Sailing forums and communities

Joining sailing forums and communities is an excellent way to connect with other like-minded individuals and expand your knowledge through shared experiences. You can ask questions, share your own experiences, and learn from others in these forums.

Two popular sailing forums are Cruisers Forum and SailNet Community , both of which host discussions on various sailing topics, from technical aspects to cruising destinations. By getting involved in these communities, you'll not only build relationships with other sailors but also stay up-to-date with the latest trends, news, and innovations in the sailing world.

Remember to always approach these resources with an open and friendly attitude, as the sailing community is filled with knowledgeable, helpful individuals willing to share their experience with newcomers. Don't hesitate to take advantage of these resources to further your sailing journey and make the most of your time both on and off the water.

As you continue to learn and grow in your sailing journey, there are several key areas you can focus on to improve your skills. In this section, we'll explore crewing on larger boats, mastering navigation, and understanding meteorology.

Crewing on larger boats

Joining the crew of a larger boat can be a fantastic way to build experience and learn from more seasoned sailors. By crewing for an experienced captain, you'll gain hands-on exposure to various aspects of sailing, such as sail trim, navigation, and boat safety. Additionally, you'll learn how to communicate effectively with your fellow crew members and become more comfortable with the natural flow of larger vessels.

Mastering navigation

Solid navigation skills are crucial for any sailor. Familiarize yourself with charts, compasses, and the basic principles of coastal navigation. Many sailing schools offer lessons specifically focused on navigation, allowing you to gain confidence in your abilities. As you progress, consider delving into the use of GPS devices and chartplotters to further enhance your navigational capabilities.

Meteorology

Understanding weather patterns and their impact on sailing conditions is essential for a well-rounded sailor. Begin by learning the basics of how to read weather reports and forecasts. Then, try observing the wind and weather conditions during your sailing trips to hone your skills at predicting what's to come.

Additionally, you can explore more advanced topics, such as synoptic chart interpretation and ocean current patterns. Being familiar with meteorology will not only improve your sailing skills but also help you make safer decisions on the water.

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A tornado sank a luxury sailing boat off the coast of Sicily. Here’s what we know

By Barbie Latza Nadeau and Sana Noor Haq, CNN

(CNN) — Emergency workers in southern Italy are still hunting for at least one person who remains missing after a tornado sank a luxury yacht early Monday – prompting an air and naval operation off the coast of Sicily .

Twenty-two people are thought to have been on the yacht when the tragedy struck. Fifteen people were rescued from the wreckage, according to Italy’s Coast Guard. One body was recovered on Monday and five more were found on Wednesday, after divers struggled to reach deep inside the yacht around 50 meters underwater (approximately 150 feet).

Two Americans and four Britons were among the six initially reported missing – including British tech tycoon Mike Lynch, Jonathan Bloomer, chairman of Morgan Stanley International, and Chris Morvillo, a prominent lawyer. The five bodies found Wednesday have not been identified, while the body recovered Monday is thought to be that of the onboard chef Ricardo Thomas.

Here’s what we know.

What happened?

A small waterspout – a type of tornado – spun over the Mediterranean island early Monday, likely capsizing the sailing boat amid lashings of rain and strong thunderstorms.

The British-flagged yacht, called the “Bayesian,” was anchored about a half a mile from the port of Porticello, on Sicily’s northern coast. The vessel sank after its mast broke in half in the storm, Salvatore Cocina, head of Sicily’s Civil Protection, told CNN on Tuesday.

Eyewitnesses described furious gales and hurricane-like winds that left an avalanche of debris near the pier.

More than a dozen survivors were spotted in the area hanging onto life rafts, according to the captain of a nearby boat, who steadied his ship to avoid colliding with the Bayesian.

“We got this strong hurricane gust and we had to start the engine to keep the ship in an angled position,” Karsten Bower told reporters in Palermo on Monday. “After the storm was over, we noticed that the ship behind us was gone.”

Bower and his crew rescued four injured people, he said, before calling Italy’s Coast Guard – who later rescued the remaining survivors.

One of those rescued – a child – was airlifted to the children’s hospital in Palermo. Eight people were hospitalized in total, according to the mayor’s office.

The girl’s mother, Charlotte, described how she battled to hold onto Sofia, her 1-year-old daughter, as reported by Italian news agency ANSA.

“In two seconds I lost the baby in the sea, then I immediately hugged her again amidst the fury of the waves. I held her tightly, close to me, while the sea was stormy,” she told journalists. “Many were screaming.”

The mother and daughter were later reunited with the father, James, according to a doctor at the local children’s hospital in Palermo.

“The survivors are very tired and are constantly asking about the missing people,” the doctor, Domenico Cipolla, said Monday. “They are talking and crying all the time because they have realized that there is little hope of finding their friends alive.”

Italy’s fire brigade dispatched helicopters to aid in the search, officials said Monday. After an unsuccessful attempt on Monday, the brigade sent divers to try and enter the sunken ship Tuesday, recommencing the operation on Wednesday.

The depth of the wreck means divers can only work there for limited periods of time, according to Marco Tilotta, an inspector for the diving unit of Palermo’s local fire brigade. The Italian fire brigade said Monday its divers had reached the yacht’s hull 49 meters (160 feet) below sea level.

The United Kingdom’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) said it has deployed a team of four inspectors to Palermo which is conducting a preliminary assessment of the scene.

Who was on board?

Twenty-two people were on board the Bayesian, which was flying under a British flag and had mostly British passengers and crew, in addition to two Anglo-French, one Irish and one Sri Lankan person, a spokesperson for Italy’s Coast Guard told CNN.

A troupe of high-profile guests are among those missing, including Lynch, the 59-year-old British tech investor who fought a fraud case earlier this year in the United States – which spiraled from the disastrous $11 billion sale of his company to tech firm Hewlett-Packard (HP) in 2011.

His 18-year-old daughter was also named missing. Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares, survived the accident. Bacares told Italian daily newspaper La Repubblica that she woke up at 4 a.m. local time, as the boat tilted. She and her husband were not initially concerned, she said, but became worried when the windows of the yacht shattered and chaos erupted.

Bacares spoke to the newspaper while sitting in a wheelchair, at a hospital in the Sicilian town of Termini Imerese. She had abrasions on her feet and bandages on other parts of her body, it reported.

Bloomer, the finance tycoon, and Morvillo, a prominent lawyer – and both their wives – are also among the missing, according to Salvatore Cocina, head of Sicily’s Civil Protection.

Morvillo, an American partner at Clifford Chance, was involved in successfully defeating the US fraud case against Lynch in June. Another employee of the firm, Ayla Ronald, and her partner, survived the incident, according to a spokesperson for Clifford Chance.

The body that was recovered from the vessel on Monday was identified as the onboard chef Ricardo Thomas, an Antiguan citizen, Reuters reported.

What do we know about the boat?

Built in 2008, the 56-meter (184-foot) yacht was manufactured by Italian company Perini Navi, Reuters reported. According to the Associated Press, the boat has been available for charter for $215,000 (€195,000) per week.

Lynch’s wife is linked to the yacht. The Bayesian is held by the company Revtom Limited, according to records from the maritime information service Equasis. The company’s latest annual return from April lists Bacares as the proprietor.

“Bayesian,” the name given to the vessel, is linked to the statistical theory on which Lynch built his fortune, according to Reuters.

The yacht’s mast stood 72.27 meters (237 feet) high above the designated water line, just short of the world’s tallest mast which is 75.2 meters, according to Guinness World Records. It was the tallest aluminium mast in the world, the Perini Navi website said.

Perini Navi is known for making “good quality boats,” according to Caroline White, deputy editor of BOAT International, a media group serving the superyacht industry.

White told CNN that if the Bayesian dismasted, “it should theoretically become more stable.” “But it might be a different story if you are in the middle of a violent storm with incredibly strong winds pinning you to the water,” she added.

Dangerous weather conditions

Strong storms across Sicily brought torrential rainfall late Sunday. Initial reports suggest a small  waterspout , which developed over the area Monday morning, could have been behind the yacht’s sinking.

Waterspouts – one of several types of tornadoes – are spinning columns of air that form over water, or move from land out to water. They are often accompanied by  high winds, high seas, hail and dangerous lightning . While they are most common over tropical oceans, they can form almost anywhere.

Matthew Schanck, chair of the Maritime Search and Rescue Council, told CNN that while waterspouts in Sicily are rare, “there is a risk” they can happen – just not every day.

Waterspouts rely on warm waters to gain energy and the Mediterranean Sea has been very hot, reaching a record  daily median of 28.9 degrees Celsius  (84 Fahrenheit) last week, according to preliminary data from researchers at the Institute of Marine Sciences in Spain.

Local temperatures have been even higher, with waters around Sicily reaching almost 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit), almost 3 degrees more than normal, Italian climatologist Luca Mercalli told CNN.

“Warmer oceans have more energy and more humidity to transfer to the atmosphere, the most important fuels for storms,” he said.

The-CNN-Wire ™ & © 2024 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.

CNN’s Laura Paddison, Louis Mian, Benjamin Brown, Catherine Nicholls, Sabrina Souza, Niamh Kennedy and Eve Brennan contributed reporting.

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