Small Sailboat Guide

Whether you’re new to sailing, looking for a fun sailboat for some leisure time or are seeking a starter sailboat for your child, you’ll find all the information you need in this small sailboat guide.

From the benefits of small sailboats and top choices for beginners to types of boats and what size to consider, we cover it all.

What are the benefits of small sailboats?

Small sailboats come with a wide range of benefits, especially for those who are learning to sail. You’ll learn how a boat moves and there are fewer risks than sailing a large boat. Plus, it’s easier to understand the impact your actions make and quickly fix any mistakes.

small-sailboats

Buying a sailboat is a huge investment, so you may also find that starting small is the best option before committing to a big purchase. This way, you can gain an understanding of sailing and enjoy the experience without breaking your budget.

If it’s fun you’re looking for, a small sailboat is perfect. Their compact size means that they’re usually quick, simple to manoeuvre and easy to right should you capsize. Although some small sailboats only seat one person, there are options that will enable you to take passengers out with you.

Which small sailboat is good for a beginner?

Most small sailboats are good for beginners as they combine different features that make them perfect for learning how to sail. For example, a small sailboat typically has tiller steering which gives you a much better feel for the boat than a steering wheel. This is because the tiller is attached to the rudder, enabling you to feel every movement caused by wind, waves and the act of sailing itself.

There are a number of different small sailboats to consider, including:

Small sloops

A small sloop is a great starting point if you’re learning to sail as they provide the opportunity to use both head and mainsails without being too challenging. Choosing a small sloop without winches is often sensible as sailboats with winches can be trickier to handle.

small-sloop

Small sloops typically seat between one and four people. This means you can sail by yourself, with someone to help you, or take friends and family out on the water.

Rotomolded boats

If potentially knocking and damaging your small sailboat is a concern, opt for a rotomolded boat which is made using a plastic construction technique that makes them durable and hardwearing. A rotomolded boat is a particularly good option if you’re learning to sail, as it’s less likely to sustain damage than a wooden or fibreglass boat.

There are different styles of rotomolded small sailboats, including catamarans and dinghies, so you can combine various features when choosing your perfect boat.

Small catamarans

Small catamarans often appeal as they are multihull, meaning that they have two hulls, unlike dinghies and sloops which only have one. The main benefit of choosing a multihull is that they’re typically more stable than monohull options, which can be handy if you’re nervous about tipping. However, in the unlikely event that you do capsize it is harder to right a small catamaran due to its multiple hulls.

Fast, easy to sail and featuring a trampoline between the hulls, small catamarans are an undeniably fun and exciting sailboat option.

Transportable boats

If you like the idea of travelling to different places where you can sail, choose a small sailboat that’s easy to transport. This will enable you to try multiple sailing locations, experience a variety of water types, visit sailing groups and clubs, and even take your sailboat on trips away.

What is the smallest seaworthy sailboat?

One of the smallest sailboats available is a sailing dinghy, some of which are not much bigger than bathtubs. With one mast, one sail and room for just one or two people, these boats are a lightweight option for fun out on the water. A popular example of a sailing dinghy – especially for children – is The Optimist which is stable, compact at just over 2m in length, and easy to use.

Read our blog, Sailing Dinghy Tips for Beginners, for extra tips.

If you have someone you’d like to sail with, the Flying Junior could be a great option. It’s designed for two people. And at just 4m in length, it will help you learn how to sail with another person, including the teamwork requirements and communication skills that come with it.

What size is considered to be a small sailboat?

There are numerous small sailboats available up to 5m in length which are ideal for beginners. Of course, you’ll need a larger vessel if you’re looking to spend a day out at sea. But for an authentic sailing experience, you’ll find that a small sailboat is absolutely perfect.

Once you’ve built your confidence in a small sailboat, you can continue moving on to larger options. A small sailboat will provide you with the foundation you need to sail bigger vessels in the future.

Where can I try using a small sailboat?

Before committing to buying a small sailboat, it’s perfectly understandable that you’d like to try one first.

There are great sailing clubs dotted around the country that offer the opportunity to have a sailing lesson or try a particular boat they have in their fleet. Plus, many sailing clubs will have boats for sale or know of people selling theirs. This will also allow you to speak to small sailboat owners about their experiences and recommendations.

Specialist sailing boat insurance through Insure4Boats

Ready to set sail with a small sailboat? You’ll likely want to protect it with specialist sailing boat insurance.

With Insure4Boats, the cover protects your boat against theft, accidental damage, malicious damage and salvage charges.

You can also opt to include Third Party Liability and contents protection, so you have nothing to worry about when cruising the waterways.

Discover more about how we can help, or get an instant online quote today.

Guide to Small Sailboats

What are the benefits of small sailboats?