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milford 20 sailboat

Sailboats - Daysailers

The Milford 20 is a trailer-able shoal draft sharpie schooner modelled on the New Haven sharpies of the late 19th. century. It was inspired by Mark Fitzgerald’s FLORIDAYS design, as published in Reuel Parker’s Sharpie Book and featured in Watercraft Magazine. The design is endorsed by Fitzgerald as an alternative to FLORIDAYS, plans for which are not available.Construction is ply over timber framing and is aimed at the amateur builder. There are two rig options, cat schooner and cat ketch. Plans are well detailed and full lofting is not required.

Design Specifications

Neville Watkinson [email protected]

The Milford 20

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Article Tag: sharpie

Norwalk islands sharpie 23.

Norwalk Islands Sharpie 23

I first got interested in sharpies after building an Arch Davis-designed Laughing Gull and sailing it for some 10 years. I became enamored with its speed and shallow draft. When I moved from Miami to New Orleans, I found that the best sailing here is during the cooler months, but it was hard to find crew willing to take spray on that 16′ open boat on chilly days. I needed a bigger boat, and I wanted it to be a sharpie.

When I discovered the Norwalk Islands Sharpie 23 (NIS 23), I knew that it was the one for me. The NIS class ranges from 18′ to 31′ and was designed by the late Bruce Kirby, who is best known for creating the globally popular Laser. He deemed his Sharpie-class boats “cruising Lasers for grown-ups.” Kirby’s sharpies are flat-bottomed, centerboard cat-ketches with unstayed masts. Prior to getting my hands on a Norwalk Islands Sharpie 23 for myself, I read an article by Robert Ayliffe, arguably the world’s foremost advocate for the class, in Australian Amateur Boat Builder in which he described crossing the treacherous Bass Strait in his NIS 23 and reaching 17.5 knots surfing down swells. The NIS 23 seemed like an affordable way to have a high-performance cruising boat, and I wanted to experience this speed for myself.

milford 20 sailboat

The mainsheet is anchored to a traveler forward of the mizzenmast, and the mizzen’s sheet leads forward to the base of its mast. Both are within easy reach of the helm.

My NIS 23 was built in 1996 at Sea Island Boat Works in South Carolina, though many have built their Norwalk Islands Sharpies at home. The single-chine plywood hull is built over plywood frames and sheathed in one layer of epoxied fiberglass. Ballast is supplied by 2″ of lead that surrounds the centerboard slot on the bottom of the boat, reportedly weighing about 600 lbs. The centerboard is made of aluminum. The construction is solid, and I have felt secure in all conditions.

I keep my NIS 23 in the water, but it is easily trailered. Since it has a centerboard and flat bottom, it comes up on the bunks with no trouble at all. I have towed mine with a Honda Pilot, but I feel much safer on the road when it is behind a pickup truck.

Early versions of the Norwalk Islands Sharpies had aluminum masts; later ones, like mine, carry carbon-fiber ones. They’re stepped in tubes just as you would drop in a mast on a Laser. There are no stays. The mainmast can be stepped by just two people, who are always relieved when it is in—and not lying fractured on the pavement. Ayliffe has designed an optional tabernacle system that would greatly reduce the stress associated with getting the masts into place. Maintenance has been easy—with its simple cat-ketch rig, there is not much to keep up. Varnished wood is at a minimum. Getting the boat from highway and ready for sailing from the dock takes about an hour and a half.

The boat is tender at the dock. When welcoming guests on board, I always stand on the opposite side of the boat so their side does not settle in the water so much when they step in.

The cockpit is generous for a boat of this size, and four adults can sit comfortably forward of the tiller. When out for a sunset cruise carrying a conservative amount of sail, the cockpit remains comfortable even while heeling. If I’m looking to maximize speed, I release the lifelines and sit on the gunwales. A short hiking stick is needed. Visibility from the cockpit is excellent.

milford 20 sailboat

The custom forward V-berth for two, here with cushions in place, is spacious and frees up the aft part of the cabin for storage. The berths  flanking the centerboard trunk e have had the cushions of third and fourth berths removed to reveal the plywood panels that cover the footwells either side of the trunk.

O nce underway, the NIS 23 is simple to sail. Being a cat-ketch, it does not carry a jib, but rather a main and mizzen. Both sheets can be managed by the skipper. Tacking involves merely pushing the tiller to the lee side of the boat. With no jib, no handling of sheets is required. I’ve had difficulty making it through irons only in winds above 20 knots and with a steep chop.

The NIS 23 carries plenty of sail, and I am quick to put in a reef if upwind sailing is required. I have two reefing points on the main and one on the mizzen. When the windward chine lifts from the water, it is time to reef. Most NIS have a reefing system that can be controlled from the cockpit. I’ve not taken the time to set it up on mine, but should.

The boat does not love to go upwind—it points to about 55 degrees off true wind and, in a chop, it needs another 10 degrees or so off to maintain boat speed. That said, the NIS 23 will make 5.5 to 6 knots on a closehaul in as little as 12 knots of wind.

milford 20 sailboat

The NIS 23 carries a 150-sq-ft mainsail and a 64-sq-ft mizzen.

The boat shines on a beam reach to broad reach when it maintains 6.5 knots boat speed in about 12 knots of wind. It can carry considerably more sail downwind. Its maximum speed I’ve seen was 10.7 knots running a broad reach in 20 to 25 knots of wind with full sails up. It becomes easier to control the boat after coming up on plane, though she only stays on plane while surfing down a wave. When not on plane, the boat’s weather helm is an annoyance. This can be reduced by dropping the mizzen and reefing the main, though the thrill of getting on plane means I don’t use this option much downwind. However, in 30 knots of wind, I’ve made 10.4 knots with the mizzen alone (though the carbon-fiber mizzenmast was bent like a parenthesis).

If the wind is more than 15 knots, the NIS 23 likes being on a run, too; the cat-ketch sail plan makes running wing-on-wing straightforward. If the wind is less than 15 knots, trading broad reaches is faster and more enjoyable. I keep the centerboard down for stability while running downwind.

I’ve sailed the boat extensively on the north Gulf Coast, particularly in Mississippi Sound, in winds up to 40 knots. With two on board, it can continue sailing on all points of sail up to about 20 knots with a double-reefed main and single-reefed mizzen. Upwind, I drop the mizzen at 25 knots and sail with just the double-reefed main. Caught in a squall, alone, I had to go to bare masts when the winds pushed over 35 to 40 knots.

With its flat bottom and centerboard, the boat’s motion in heavier seas is surprisingly comfortable. There is none of the laborious lumbering that’s felt on keel boats.

The sharpie is stable under sail, and I’ve never worried about a capsize. However, it is quick to heel, making early reefing important. The carbon-fiber masts mitigate gusts by flexing and thus dumping excess wind, reducing heel. Crew can move about while underway, but not without being alert. This is particularly the case when sailing upwind.

Despite their flat bottoms and relatively high-placed ballast, the Norwalk Islands Sharpies are claimed to be self-righting. I have never felt remotely close to a knockdown in mine, even while carrying too much sail in high winds.

The mizzen is an excellent sail for maneuvering in the marina. After getting comfortable with how far the boat drifts, I rarely use the engine for anything but backing out of my slip. When returning, I drop the powerful main about 100 yards from the dock and then amble toward the slip under mizzen alone. The mizzen is easily doused while holding the tiller, and I do this about 10 to 40 yards from the slip, depending on the wind. We then glide into the dock, and I arrest the remaining motion by placing a hand on a piling.

milford 20 sailboat

The aluminum centerboard and 600 lbs of interior lead ballast help the NIS 23 stand up in a breeze.

O verall, I rate the NIS23’s sailing performance as nothing short of thrilling on a beam reach or broad reach. She is fair upwind and strong on a run—as long as you have a stiff breeze. My favorite characteristics of the boat are its speed and the shallow draft that enables the exploration of marshes and flats.

I have a 6-hp outboard on a bracket off the stern, which is more than adequate. The boat doesn’t need more than half-throttle to reach hull speed, which is around 5.5 knots.

At anchor, the NIS23 is pleasant. I have so far spent about 45 nights on board and, while many have criticized sharpies for pounding at anchor, that has not been my experience. Its extremely shallow draft of just 8″ allows access to very protected anchorages inaccessible to deeper-draft boats. In my cruising grounds, marshes are abundant. My approach is to anchor just 50′ or so off the windward marshland or even in a narrow marsh creek.

One night while anchored off Cat Island, Mississippi, a large storm brought 45-knot winds. Despite my taking cover in a marsh creek, the winds whipped the boat back and forth at anchor all night, making sleep all but impossible. Around 3 a.m., I awoke, and while the wind roared, my berth was paradoxically motionless. Fearing that the anchor had dragged and the boat had been driven into the marsh, I peered out of the hatch. My headlamp illuminated black mud all around me. The wind had driven about 3′ of water out of the marsh and the boat was resting contentedly on its flat bottom. I slept well the rest of the night, and then had to wait about 8 hours for the water to come back.

Accommodations in the cabin are limited; I liken the experience of time spent in the cabin to a spacious, floating tent rather than a yacht. If your NIS 23 don’t have the curved-hatch option, which provides 5′ 11″ of headroom, don’t count on standing up. In the after part of the cabin, there are two full-length single berths; I removed part of the cabin’s forward bulkhead to allow for a V-berth for two more crewmembers. Kirby’s drawings have options for a similar arrangement of four berths as well as sleeping accommodations for two with open space for a galley and a head. I have three overhead lights and a ventilation fan powered by a solar panel/battery. For cooking, I bring along a Coleman stove and place it in front of the cabin hatch in the cockpit, which is a good arrangement even when it is raining. Even for a nine-day Gulf Coast cruise , there was plenty of space for provisions and enough sleeping area for two.

milford 20 sailboat

Peter Sawyer is a general surgery resident in New Orleans, Louisiana. He learned to sail when he was 11 years old at Camp Sea Gull, a seafaring summer camp on the North Carolina coast. He has been at it ever since. 

milford 20 sailboat

Norwalk Islands Sharpie 23 Particulars

Load waterline/18′ 9″

Draft, board up /8″

Draft, board down/4′ 6″

Weight/1,540 lbs approx.

Sail area, main/150 sq ft

Sail area, mizzen/64 sq ft

Sail area, total/214 sq ft

Power, outboard/ 2 to 3.5 hp

Plans for various arrangements for the NIS23 are available from Norwalk Islands Sharpie. Options include plans  for a “from scratch” build, a precut “plywood only” kit, and an “everything you will ever need, including trailer” kit.

Is there a boat you’d like to know more about? Have you built one that you think other Small Boats Magazine readers would enjoy? Please email us!

Milford 20

T he diminutive yacht OYSTER, a Milford 20, is a modern take on the early New Haven sharpies that worked the oyster beds along Long Island Sound’s Connecticut shores. Inspired by Mark Fitzgerald’s FLORIDAYS in Reuel B. Parker’s The Sharpie Book , the 20′ 6″ OYSTER was designed and built by Neville Watkinson of Milford Boats in Christchurch, New Zealand, and carries either a cat-ketch or a cat-schooner rig.

The sharpie design is well known, but the elements setting the Milford 20’s classic design apart are the counter stern and the cabin with its elliptical port-lights and trim, details that would usually be found on a much larger yacht. OYSTER has been greatly admired at recent classic and traditional boat events in our area of New Zealand. Its classic lines, beautiful counter stern, and immaculate finish readily show the careful thought that has been given to the integrity of the design and the quality of craftsmanship.

The 52-page build manual is comprehensive, with full sequential notes on the whole process enhanced with clear photographs and detailed drawings. The documentation would put the boat within the range of an amateur builder with good woodworking skills and access to a reasonable range of tools and workshop facilities. On OYSTER, the time and care that went into building the coach roof, coamings, lazarette, bulkheads, portlights, rails, and moldings were well rewarded. OYSTER took approximately 1,000 hours to build and outfit.

OYSTER, the first Milford 20, had sapele chine logs,sheer clamps, frames floors, and keelson. Any durable straight-grained wood may be used.

OYSTER, the first Milford 20, had sapele chine logs, sheer clamps, frames floors, and keelson. Any durable straight-grained wood may be used.

Construction largely follows that of traditional plank-on-frame boats, but uses plywood for sheathing the hull. The Milford 20 is built upside down over a ladder frame without any temporary molds; the hull is built around the permanent timber frames and longitudinal members. The bottom is 12mm plywood, the sides 9mm, and the deck 6mm. To plank the strong curve of the counter, three layers of 3mm plywood were laminated. There are three 12mm plywood bulkheads: The bulkhead in the bow is open, and the stern bulkhead, set just ahead of the rudderpost, encloses a lazarette that provides buoyancy when its watertight hatch is sealed. The addition of some foam throughout the hull would be advised to add sufficient positive buoyancy to support hull and crew in event of a capsize. The hatch on the foredeck provides access to the anchor, which stows in the bottom of the boat where it can contribute to the boat’s stability.

A double luff tackle (with a double-sheave block and a triple-sheave block) stretched out along the top of the trunk greatly eases the burden of raising the board. The anchor and chain have their place in a box in the bow.

A double luff tackle (with a double-sheave block and a triple-sheave block) stretched out along the top of the trunk greatly eases the burden of raising the heavily weighted board. The anchor and chain have their place in a box in the bow.

The boat’s centerboard has an unusual construction. It’s a stack of thirty 1-7/8″-thick NACA foil sections, 17 of them hardwood, nine of them half wood, half lead, and four of them entirely made of lead, adding 121 pounds to the board’s weight. The stack is assembled on three 10mm stainless-steel rods with threaded ends for nuts and washers to pinch the epoxy-slathered sections together. The board then gets its sides sheathed with 6mm plywood, a leading edge of oak before a layer of epoxy and ’glass or Dynel.

The plans include a sheet devoted to the installation of an air-cooled gas engine. It is "intended as a concept guide" rather than a DIY guide. In the construction manual the designer notes: "The clutch, timing belts and pulleys cost more than the engine! This is one reason I would probably just go with electric drive if starting over."

The plans include a sheet devoted to the installation of an air-cooled gas engine. It is “intended as a concept guide” rather than DIY instructions. In the construction manual the designer notes: “The clutch, timing belts, and pulleys cost more than the engine! I would probably just go with electric drive if starting over.”

Although not essential, auxiliary power makes it possible to get through marinas and lulls in the wind. OYSTER has a 6-hp, air-cooled Honda GX 200 , an industrial four-stroke engine, neatly and unobtrusively mounted under the bridge deck. The engine was easy to start with a pull or two of its cord, quiet, and provided ample power for launching and hauling out as well as for a short passage in a short choppy seaway. Milford Boats reports that the inboard pushes the boat along at 4.5 to 5 knots and sips gas at the rate of about 1 gallon per sailing season.

The optional inboard motor will keep the Milford moving at up to 5 knots when there isn't any wind.

The optional inboard engine will keep the Milford moving at up to 5 knots when there isn’t any wind.

The engine is set to port, and a belt drive turns the prop shaft that emerges from the skeg forward of the rudder. The three-bladed prop is protected by a stainless-steel plate connecting the skeg and bottom of the rudder. The prop doesn’t feather or freewheel and causes a little drag, but this is a minor concern as the auxiliary power is a major benefit. A bracket for mounting a small outboard to one side of the hull may be a more appealing option to those who are uneasy about installing a shaft log. The long, slender hull and cockpit geometry suggest that the boat could be comfortably rowed if a builder wanted to fit a thwart or two and oarlocks.

Sitting on the trailer designed for it, the Milford 20 doesn't obscure the view to the rear. The towing weight with trailer, boat, rig, and gear is 1320 lbs.

Sitting on the trailer designed for it, the Milford 20 doesn’t obscure the driver’s view to the rear. The towing weight with trailer, boat, rig, and gear is 1,320 lbs.

The build manual includes plans for a steel trailer custom-fit to the Milford 20. It was easy to use and, with the boat aboard, weighs around 1,320 lbs—an easy towing load for a small to average-sized vehicle.

At the launch ramp, two of us easily assembled the schooner rig in about 20 minutes. While the unstayed Douglas-fir masts, each weighing 30 lbs, are not heavy, they are awkward to maneuver, and best handled by two. Once the masts are stepped, the rest of the preparation is quickly accomplished. Most lines and sheets are kept in place when the masts are down for trailering, so it takes little time to rerig the boat at the ramp.

Similarly, retrieving the boat from the water and securing it on the trailer at the end of our outing took about 20 minutes. With all sailing gear packed easily in the boat and the masts resting in three crutches, one in each mast step and a third in the hollow rudder post, the Milford 20 is ready for travel. The compact and low profile of the boat on the trailer makes for easy towing and clear all-round vision on the road.

The Milford 20 has a third mast step for sailing with a single sail. A deck plate covers the hole in the forward end of the cabin roof when the that step is not in use.

The Milford 20 has a third mast step for sailing with a single sail. A deck plate covers the hole in the forward end of the cabin roof when that step is not in use.

We sailed OYSTER on the open water of Lyttelton Harbor on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island on a late autumn day under clear skies with a breeze at 5 to 8 knots, later rising to over 10 knots. The Milford 20 is only about 4′2″ across at the widest part of the bottom, but was extremely stable under sail. It proved to be a responsive and easy to handle while underway. The thoughtful placement of the fittings and lines ensures that any adjustments can be made from a sitting position in the comfort of the main cockpit.

The low sharpie profile makes the floorboards the best seating for the crew. The mainsail sheet is led to the tiller.

The low sharpie profile makes the floorboards the best seating for the crew. The mainsail sheet is led to the tiller.

The cockpit isn’t deep, so the floorboards, along with throw cushions and a broad coaming, provide comfortable, dry seating as well as a secure feeling while underway. Even as the wind strength increased soon after we got underway and both sails were reefed, it was not necessary sit out on the windward side decks to counter the heeling. If we had additional crew sitting in the cockpit forward of the bridge deck/mizzen partner, they too would have been very secure, dry, and well clear of the rigging as we sailed the boat from rear cockpit.

Both cockpits are long enough to sleep in—6′2-1/2″ forward and 5′11″ aft—but the available spaces in the forward cockpit, either side of the centerboard trunk, have maximum width of about 22” and the aft cockpit has a 4’2″ maximum width. The limited space would be rather restrictive for sleeping. It would be a much more practical proposition to carry a tent and camping equipment on board for parking the crew onshore overnight. The generous space under the fore deck and in the enclosed aft compartment provide adequate out-of-the-way stowage for cruising and camping gear.

With a hull draws only 10", and a forefoot right at the waterline, the Milford 20 takes well to nosing up on a sandy shore.

With a hull that draws only 10″ and a forefoot right at the waterline, the Milford 20 takes well to nosing up on a sandy shore.

During our sail we raised the centerboard and ran OYSTER gently on a sandy beach, stepped ashore, and made a cup of hot coffee using a small portable stove and supplies stowed in the watertight locker under the lazarette. The hull is well protected by Dynel, providing a hard, damage-resistant surface. The Milford 20’s light weight—695 lbs for the hull, including the weighted centerboard—and its shallow 10” draft made the beach landing and relaunching a very easy exercise.

The balanced rudder is 37″ long and 13″ tall at the trailing edge, and has a shape typical of traditional sharpies but with a more modern feature: a 6″-wide horizontal bottom plate to keep water from decreasing the rudder’s effectiveness by slipping under it.

The cat-schooner rig, seen here, has 67 sq ft in the main and 76 in the foresail. The alternate cat-ketch rig has 80 sq ft in the main and 62 sq ft in the mizzen. The designer favors the cat-schooner rig.

The cat-schooner rig, seen here, has 67 sq ft in the main and 76 sq ft in the foresail. The alternate cat-ketch rig has 80 sq ft in the main and 62 sq ft in the mizzen. The designer favors the cat-schooner rig.

The modest sail area performs very well in both light and brisk breezes. However, having a long and slender hull and a tall rig, the Milford 20, like most sharpies, needs to be sailed with no more than 10 or 15 degrees of heel. It did sail comfortably with the lee rail under, although it is preferable to reduce heel in a choppy sea to prevent water from entering the cockpit. In winds of 10 to 12 knots, reefing the main would be advised for stability and comfort and in 15 knots it’s recommended that both sails be reefed. Reefing either sail is easily managed from the cockpits.

The Milford 20 obviously does not sail as close to the wind as a sloop-rigged boat of similar size, but it was very secure with a desirable positive helm. It moved readily in light airs, in a rising wind, and was very comfortable both upwind and running downwind.

The structure and configuration of the boat makes it a safe and pleasurable sailing boat in a range of conditions on moderately sheltered waters. It is not an offshore or coastal cruiser but an able craft that could appeal to sailors of all ages and abilities. The dry, secure cockpit and centralized rig controls would obviously have a wide appeal for older sailors or those with limited mobility.  For the inexperienced, it is easily managed and forgiving underway.

Peter Braithwaite ONZM has had a career as a teacher, school principal, administrator, training manager, consultant and foreign-aid adviser in New Zealand and the Pacific islands. He now lives in Christchurch where he continues his lifetime passion for recreational sailing and building small boats from RC pond sailers to competitive racing dinghies and harbor racing yachts. For the past ten years he has been the organizer of the Canterbury Classic & Traditional Boats group that promotes and organizes regular regattas and activities for classic, restored, and replica traditional boats in the local region.

Milford 20 Particulars

Length/20′6″

Draft, board up/10″

Draft, board down/3′3″

Sail area/145 sq ft

Displacement/1,360 lbs

Hull weight (including centerboard)/695 lbs

milford 20 sailboat

Schooner rig

Ketch rig

Plans for the Millford 20 are available from Milford Boats on paper for $120 and as digital files for $80.

Is there a boat you’d like to know more about? Have you built one that you think other Small Boats Monthly readers would enjoy? Please email us!

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milford 20 sailboat

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10 Best Small Sailboats (Under 20 Feet)

Best Small Sailboats Under 20 Feet | Life of Sailing

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

Compact, easy to trailer, simple to rig, easy to maintain and manage, and affordable, the best small boats all have one thing in common: they offer loads of fun while out there on the water.

So whether you're on a budget or just looking for something that can offer ultimate daytime rides without compromising on safety, aesthetic sensibilities, alternate propulsion, and speed, the best small sailboats under 20 feet should be the only way to go.

Let's be brutally honest here; not everyone needs a 30-foot sailboat to go sailing. They come with lots of features such as electronics, entertainment, refrigeration, bunks, a galley, and even a head. But do you really need all these features to go sailing? We don't think so.

All you need to go sailing is a hull, a mast, rudder, and, of course, a sail. And whether you refer to them as daysailers, trailerable sailboats , a weekender sailboat, or pocket cruisers, there's no better way to enjoy the thrills of coastal sailing than on small sailboats.

There are a wide range of small boats measuring less than 20 feet available in the market. These are hot products in the market given that they offer immense thrills out on the sea without the commitment required to cruise on a 30-footer. A small sailboat will not only give you the feel of every breeze but will also give you the chance to instantly sense every change in trim.

In this article, we'll highlight 10 best small sailboats under 20 feet . Most models in this list are time-tested, easy to rig, simple to sail, extremely fun, and perfect either for solo sailing or for sailing with friends and family. So if you've been looking for a list of some of the best small sailboats , you've come to the right place.

So without further ado, let's roll on.

Table of contents

{{boat-info="/boats/hunter-15"}}

The Marlow-Hunter 15 is not only easy to own since it's one of the most affordable small sailboats but also lots of fun to sail. This is a safe and versatile sailboat for everyone. Whether you're sailing with your family or as a greenhorn, you'll love the Hunter 15 thanks to its raised boom, high freeboard, and sturdy FRP construction.

With high sides, a comfortable wide beam, a contoured self-bailing cockpit, and fiberglass construction, the Hunter 15 is certainly designed with the novice sailor in mind. This is why you can do a lot with this boat without falling out, breaking it, or capsizing. Its contoured self-baiting cockpit will enable you to find a fast exit while its wide beam will keep it steady and stable no matter what jibes or weight shifts happen along the way.

This is a small sailboat that can hold up to four people. It's designed to give you a confident feeling and peace of mind even when sailing with kids. It's easy to trailer, easy to rig, and easy to launch. With a price tag of about $10k, the Hunter 15 is a fun, affordable, and versatile boat that is perfect for both seasoned sailors and novices. It's a low-maintenance sailboat that can be great for teaching kids a thing or two about sailing.

Catalina 16.5

{{boat-info="/boats/catalina-16-5"}}

Catalina Yachts are synonymous with bigger boats but they have some great and smaller boats too such as Catalina 16.5. This is one of the best small sailboats that are ideal for family outings given that it has a big and roomy cockpit, as well as a large storage locker. Designed with a hand-laminated fiberglass sloop, the Catalina 16.5 is versatile and is available in two designs: the centerboard model and the keel model.

The centerboard model is designed with a powerful sailplane that remains balanced as a result of the fiberglass centerboard, the stable hull form, and the rudder. It also comes with a tiller extension, adjustable hiking straps, and adjustable overhaul. It's important to note that these are standard equipment in the two models.

As far as the keel model is concerned, this is designed with a high aspect keel as the cast lead and is attached with stainless steel keel bolts, which makes this model perfect for mooring or docking whenever it's not in use. In essence, the centerboard model is perfect if you'll store it in a trailer while the keel model can remain at the dock.

All in all, the Catalina 16.5 is one of the best small sailboats that you can get your hands on for as low as $10,000. This is certainly a great example of exactly what a daysailer should be.

{{boat-info="/boats/hobie-16"}}

There's no list of small, trailerable, and fun sailboats that can be complete without the inclusion of the classic Hobie 16. This is a durable design that has been around and diligently graced various waters across the globe since its debut way back in 1969 in Southern California. In addition to being durable, the Hobie 16 is trailerable, great for speed, weighs only 320 pounds, great for four people, and more importantly, offers absolute fun.

With a remarkable figure of over 100,000 launched since its debut, it's easy to see that the Hobie 16 is highly popular. Part of this popularity comes from its asymmetric fiberglass-and-foam sandwiched hulls that include kick-up rudders. This is a great feature that allows it to sail up to the beach.

For about $12,000, the Hobie 16 will provide you with endless fun throughout the summer. It's equipped with a spinnaker, trailer, and douse kit. This is a high-speed sailboat that has a large trampoline to offer lots of space not just for your feet but also to hand off the double trapezes.

Montgomery 17

{{boat-info="/boats/montgomery-17"}}

Popularly known as the M-17, The Montgomery 17 was designed by Lyle C. Hess in conjunction with Jerry Montgomery in Ontario, California for Montgomery Boats. Designed either with keel or centerboard models, the M-17 is more stable than most boats of her size. This boat is small enough to be trailered but also capable of doing moderate offshore passages.

This small sailboat is designed with a masthead and toe rail that can fit most foresails. It also has enough space for two thanks to its cuddly cabin, which offers a sitting headroom, a portable toilet, a pair of bunks, a DC power, and optional shore, and a proper amount of storage. That's not all; you can easily raise the deck-stepped mast using a four-part tackle.

In terms of performance, the M-17 is one of the giant-killers out there. This is a small sailboat that will excel in the extremes and make its way past larger boats such as the Catalina 22. It glides along beautifully and is a dog in light air, though it won't sail against a 25-knot wind, which can be frustrating. Other than that, the Montgomery 17 is a great small sailboat that can be yours for about $14,000.

Norseboat 17.5

{{boat-info="/boats/norseboat-17-5"}}

As a versatile daysailer, Norseboat 17.5 follows a simple concept of seaworthiness and high-performance. This small sailboat perfectly combines both contemporary construction and traditional aesthetics. Imagine a sailboat that calls itself the "Swiss Army Knife of Boats!" Well, this is a boat that can sail and row equally well.

Whether you're stepping down from a larger cruiser or stepping up from a sea kayak, the unique Norseboat 17.5 is balanced, attractive, and salty. It has curvaceous wishbone gaff, it is saucy, and has a stubby bow-sprit that makes it attractive to the eyes. In addition to her beauty, the Norseboat 17.5 offers an energy-pinching challenge, is self-sufficient, and offers more than what you're used to.

This is a small, lightweight, low-maintenance sailboat that offers a ticket to both sailing and rowing adventures all at the same time. At about 400 pounds, it's very portable and highly convenient. Its mainsails may look small but you'll be surprised at how the boat is responsive to it. With a $12,500 price tag, this is a good small sailboat that offers you the versatility to either row or sail.

{{boat-info="/boats/sage-marine-sage-17"}}

If you've been looking for a pocket cruiser that inspires confidence, especially in shoal water, look no further than the Sage 17. Designed by Jerry Montgomery in 2009, the Sage 17 is stable and should heel to 10 degrees while stiffening up. And because you want to feel secure while sailing, stability is an integral feature of the Sage 17.

This is a sailboat that will remain solid and stable no matter which part of the boat you stand on. Its cabin roof and the balsa-cored carbon-fiber deck are so strong that the mast doesn't require any form of compression post. The self-draining cockpit is long enough and capable of sleeping at 6 feet 6 inches.

The Sage 17 may be expensive at $25k but is a true sea warrior that's worth look at. This is a boat that will not only serve you right but will also turn heads at the marina.    

{{boat-info="/boats/laserperformance-laser-sb3"}}

Having been chosen as the overall boat of the year for 2008 by the Sailing World Magazine, the Laser SB3 is one of the coolest boats you'll ever encounter. When sailing upwind, this boat will lock into the groove while its absolute simplicity is legendary. In terms of downwind sailing, having this boat will be a dream come true while it remains incredibly stable even at extraordinary speed.

Since its debut in 2004, the Laser SB3 has surged in terms of popularity thanks to the fact that it's designed to put all the controls at your fingertips. In addition to a lightweight mast, its T- bulb keel can be hauled and launched painlessly. For about $18,000, the Laser SB3 ushers you into the world of sports sailing and what it feels to own and use a sports boat.

{{boat-info="/boats/fareast-18"}}

As a manufacturer, Fareast is a Chinese boat manufacturer that has been around for less than two decades. But even with that, the Fareast 18 remains a very capable cruiser-racer that will take your sailing to the next level. In addition to its good looks, this boat comes with a retractable keel with ballast bulb, a powerful rig, and an enclosed cabin.

Its narrow design with a closed stern may be rare in sailboats of this size, but that's not a problem for the Fareast 18. This design not only emphasizes speed but also makes it a lot easier to maintain this boat. Perfect for about 6 people, this boat punches above its weight. It's, however, designed to be rigged and launched by one person.

This is a relatively affordable boat. It's agile, safe, well-thought-out, well built, and very sporty.

{{boat-info="/boats/chuck-paine-paine-14"}}

If you're in the market looking for a small sailboat that offers contemporary performance with classic beauty, the Paine 14 should be your ideal option. Named after its famous designer, Chuck Paine, this boat is intentionally designed after the classic Herreshoff 12.5 both in terms of dimensions and features.

This is a lightweight design that brings forth modern fin keel and spade rudder, which makes it agile, stable, and faster. The Paine 14 is built using cold-molded wood or west epoxy. It has varnished gunnels and transoms to give it an old-time charm. To make it somehow modern, this boat is designed with a carbon mast and a modern way to attach sails so that it's ready to sail in minutes.

You can rest easy knowing that the Paine 14 will not only serve you well but will turn heads while out there.

{{boat-info="/boats/wd-schock-lido-14"}}

Many sailors will attest that their first sailing outing was in a Lido 14. This is a classic sailboat that has been around for over four decades and still proves to be a perfect match to modern small boats, especially for those still learning the ropes of sailing.

With seating for six people, the Lido 14 can be perfect for solo sailing , single-handed sailing, or if you're planning for shorthanded sailing. While new Lido 14 boats are no longer available, go for a functional used Lido 14 and you'll never regret this decision. It will serve you well and your kids will probably fall in love with sailing if Lido 14 becomes their main vessel during weekends or long summer holidays.

Bottom Line

There you have it; these are some of the best small sailboats you can go for. While there are endless small sailboats in the market, the above-described sailboat will serve you right and make you enjoy the wind.

Choose the perfect sailboat, invest in it, and go out there and have some good fun!

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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March Specials | Milford Sound Day Cruise , Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise,   Shotover Rafting & Discovery Expeditions

The Haven cruising through Milford Sound

Milford Sound Cruises

Now's Good!  It is the perfect time to experience spectacular Milford Sound. From thundering waterfalls to sky-high mountains and lush rainforests, Milford has it all. Experience the spray of a waterfall as you cruise close to sheer rock faces. Informative, participative, and relaxed, this is the perfect way to experience Milford Sound to the fullest.

Cruise in style on board the newly refurbished Milford Haven. More than a boat, the Haven is a cruising bar and restaurant. Enhance your cruise with something from our café-style menu and pair it perfectly with a fresh craft beer or local wine.

The Milford Haven boasts a large rooftop deck with 360-degree views of the fiord. You can also choose to explore the fiord from the comfort of the cosy lounge, or there is a window seat for everyone in the café.

Take in the view from our cosy indoor lounge, or relax outdoors on the rooftop deck.

Enjoy the Havens café-style menu, fresh craft beer and barista-made coffee.

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milford 20 sailboat

OUR LOCATIONS

milford 20 sailboat

EXPLORE MILFORD ABOARD THE PADDLE PUB

How it works, where will you cruise.

Paddle Pub only exists in awesome places. Pick yours to get started.

Select activity & date

Want the whole enchilada for yourself? Book the whole boat for a private tour! Or make new friends by buying individual seats - we call them mixer tickets because, you know, the mixing and stuff.

Your favorite drinks and best friends

Choose who’s coming along, grab some drinks, and get ready to have a great time. Be sure everyone signs the pre-tour waiver before your trip.

Meet at the tour starting location

Meet at the starting location 15 minutes ahead of your tour time. Our driver will load up your drinks, walk through safety protocol, and prepare your crew for an amazing time.

Have a great time

Fire up your favorite playlist, crack a beverage, and have fun! Suggest stops or have your driver take you to the best spots in town.

WHERE WILL YOU CRUISE?

Select activity & date, your favorite drinks and best friends, meet at the tour starting location, have a great time.

milford 20 sailboat

CYCLE BOAT TOURS

Paddle Pub is a fun cycle & party boat. Like a booze cruise, but more fun. Join this journey of unlimited fun with friends, family, or co-workers!!

Milford, CT is a charming coastal town nestled along the picturesque Long Island Sound. With its stunning beaches, vibrant harbor, and rich history, Milford offers a perfect backdrop for a memorable Paddle Pub adventure, creating unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike.

milford 20 sailboat

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

Looking for things to do for your birthday.

Paddle Pub is the legendary way of celebrating birthdays nationwide. Grab your friends, a cooler, and get ready to create paddle-powered memories you’ll remember for years to come.

milford 20 sailboat

BACHELOR & BACHELORETTE PARTIES

Bachelor parties on our bike bar are a huge hit.

The best bachelorette party in the country Ladies, we want to let you in on a secret. There’s a reason that a large percentage of our tours host bachelorette parties. The Paddle Pub (or Cycle Boat) can fit you and all the wedding party Your cute outfits and decorations will be on parade through the city. Let’s be honest: it’s perfect for creating the perfect moment for pictures to share on Instagram. You get to hit all the fun spots in one tour.

milford 20 sailboat

TEAM BUILDING

Looking for the perfect team-building activity.

Looking for the perfect corporate team building activity for your next company event in?  Paddle Pub is the best way to break the ice between colleagues and entertain out-of-town clients.

milford 20 sailboat

LADIES NIGHTS

The boys are at home.  what’s a gal to do.

The Paddle Pub of course!  Pack a cooler with your favorite beer, wine, and spiked sparkling beverages and hit the water… It’s the perfect way to bond with your friends. Let’s be honest: it’s perfect for creating the perfect moment for pictures to share on Instagram.

Valerie Manghir

I’m honestly speechless. This company was amazing from start to finish. Customer service was so responsive in helping me with all of my questions. They made the whole process seamless. I had a party of 24 people for the paddle boat and the crew was phenomenal! Ryan was our party host who went above and b eyond to make sure we had an amazing time. The other crew members did an amazing job as well and the captain was great! Nothing short of a good time and nothing but absolutely amazing things to say about this company and its hard workers. Book this boat. You will NOT regret it! Thank you for making my birthday one for the books!!

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Allison Moroney

Had a great time with friends on the boat! A group of us went for our friend’s birthday and ended up having the whole boat to ourselves. Cal and Chris made our experience so much more fun! Definitely would come back on next time we’re down here.

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Jaynene Owens

Had a great time on the boat for my daughter’s Bachelorette party! 13 party girls and Captain Steve handled it like a champ! He played great music for us. Being on the boat was a fun and different experience. Vicky also was very friendly, customer-friendly, and answered all questions we had. Overall very fun time made some good memories 💃🏼

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Rachel Aubrey

WooooWe! Did the Paddle Pub for my birthday and boy was it fun!! Bring your drinks and some good tunes to the plugin, and get ready for a wild ride 🤪 Remy and Kody were fabulous hosts and got some nice group pics of us. Recommend for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a random good time. Thanks fo r an awesome bday, guys!

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What is the Paddle Pub?

It’s a 20-person pedal-powered pontoon boat, with a USCG certified master captain at the helm. Perfect for pub crawls, birthday celebrations, bachelor/bachelorette parties, company outings, sightseeing, themed nights out- the possibilities are endless! There is an onboard motor and bathroom as well.

What all is included in the price? *

View our pricing by clicking here !

How much does a cycle boat cost?

Prices may vary depending on what day of the week you choose to book your event – please click here to see current pricing. Special events are charged by the hour. Make sure you book your tour well in advance, as we are often sold out on popular time-slots up to a month in advance!

Is there a bathroom onboard?

Yes, there is a bathroom!

Where do we board the Paddle Pub?

We meet at the public dock located in the Milford Boat Ramp parking lot, near end of Shipyard Lane (5-10 minute walk from parking). Free parking is located at Fowler Park at 1 Shipyard Lane, Milford, CT 06460, or other Public Parking lots located around town. Please note that some spots in the Fowler Field lots are for Milford residents only and there is no parking in the boat ramp parking lot!! Please wait on land, near the kayak racks, for our crew members to check you in and escort you to the boat.

What is the parking situation like?

Free parking is located at Fowler Park at 1 Shipyard Lane, Milford, CT 06460, or other Public Parking lots located around town. Please note that some spots in the Fowler Field lots are for Milford residents only and there is no parking in the boat ramp parking lot!! Please wait on land, near the kayak racks, for our crew members to check you in and escort you to the boat.

Can we drink on board?

You may, but you have to follow the rules. No glass or hard liquor (even if the glass only stays in the ice chest). All alcohol is BYOB – bring your favorite canned beer, cider, seltzer, and wine.  Alcoholic beverages must remain on board at all times. Traditionally ice is not needed but you are more than welcome to bring your own for the built-in cooler area at the bar on the Paddle Pub. You are also free to bring food onboard.

Can we get out and swim during the tour?

Unfortunately No, we do not offer a swim tour at this location. 

Isn’t it hard to pedal?

Water tends to be very flat, so it’s not difficult at all.  In fact, the light exercise helps make the experience. Plus, we have an auxiliary motor.  We have had groups of all 70+ seniors pedal just fine. If they can do it, you can do it!!!

What if it rains?

Paddle Pub operates rain or shine! If it’s going to rain, we recommend bringing rain jackets and/or ponchos. It’s still a lot of fun- think of it as an adventure. We only cancel tours if there are unsafe conditions, in which case you will receive a credit. There is also a fully canopy roof covering the entire vessel should it rain that day.

Do we need to bring coolers? What about ice?

Paddle Pub has a built-in cooler in the bar area. We recommend bringing your own ice.

Can more than 16 people fit on the Paddle Pub?

Yes,  There are 20 available seats, including pedaling and non-pedaling ones. Keep in mind on a private tour every guest above the base fare of 14 passengers is an additional $40.

Are people under the age of 21 allowed on board?

e do offer cruises to riders who are under 21 years of age when accompanied by a guardian. All participants on our public tours must be at least 18 years or older, or be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. The minimum age for private cruises is 5 years old and accompanied by a parent or guardian. If there are any passengers under the age of 18, there must be at least one parent or guardian over the age of 25 for every 4 minors onboard.

Children between the ages of 5-12 years must wear USCG approved life vests at all times while on the dock and the vessel. The child’s parent or guardian must provide a children’s USCG approved Type I, Type II or Type III life jacket, appropriate for the age, weight and height of the child (no inflatables, floaties, swimmies, etc).

Is there a weight limit for riders?

Yes.  Unfortunately, due to the nature of the vessels, customers over 300 pounds will not be able to comfortably ride the Paddle Pub.

How do I reschedule/cancel my tour?

BASE FARE TICKETS: Base Fare Tickets have a strict cancellation policy.  NO REFUNDS will be offered.  You can reschedule or convert to store credit up to 7 days before the event. Within 7 days of the event, this ticket is non-transferable and non-refundable. If Pedal Cruise cancels the event at any time, this ticket can be rescheduled or converted to store credit.

REFUNDABLE UPGRADE/OPTION: Tickets purchased with the Refundable Upgrade or Option have a generous cancellation policy offering rescheduling, store credit or refund up to 7 days before the event. Within 4-7 days of the event, this ticket can be rescheduled or converted to store credit, but is nonrefundable. Within 3 days of the event, this ticket is non-transferable and non-refundable. If Pedal Cruise cancels the event at any time, this ticket can be rescheduled, converted to store credit, or refunded. Similar to trip insurance, the Refundable Upgrade/Option amount (equaling about 10% of the cost of the Base Fare) is non-refundable and is not returned.

GIFT CERTIFICATES/STORE CREDIT: This value is non-refundable and follows the same policy as the Base Fare.

FRANCHISE YOUR OWN BUSINESS

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milford 20 sailboat

Classic Sail 35' Yawl

Philip

Specifications

Ratings & reviews, boat location.

  • Response rate: 100%
  • Avg. response time: < 12 hours

Things to know

Allowed on boat, cancellation policy moderate.

  • Free cancellations until 5 days before the booking start time.
  • 50% refund for cancellations between 3-5 days before the booking start time.
  • Cancellations within 2 days of the booking start time are non-refundable.

Security deposit

A security deposit hold (not a charge) will be placed on your credit card 48 hours before your booking starts to cover any incidental damage that may occur during your rental. This hold is released 48 hours after the booking is complete, if no claims are made. The security deposit amount for the boat you are booking will be outlined during the check-out process.

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  • Cal 20 Sailboat

milford 20 sailboat

Cal 20 Sailboat Boats for sale

1984 CAL 24' Sailboat Galvanized Tandem Trailer Rhode Island

1984 CAL 24' Sailboat Galvanized Tandem Trailer Rhode Island

East Greenwich, Rhode Island

Category Racer Boats

Length 24.0

Posted Over 1 Month

This is my 1984 25th Anniversary Special Edition Cal 24' Sailboat with tandem axle galvanized trailer I have owned the boat for the last several years and it has seen little use in that time. The boat is in good shape for its age. The following work was done within the last two years I have owned it. Please review all pictures. I have detailed pictures unlike most showing 5 pictures. Johnson 7.5HP outboard can be purchased additonally Trailer: New 3,500lb dual axlesNew galvanized wheels/tiresNew wiring/lightsPainted Boat supportsFenders Boat: Standing rigging replacedWiring replaced (connection from cabin to mast needs to be completed)Bottom stripped/barrier coated 1 layer of bottom paintMail sail 2-3 years old1 genoa no roller furlingBoom VangAluminum anchor and rhode Hull is in good shape for its age with no soft spots on deck or major damage. Has usual cracks and dings here and there. Interior has all cushions, cooler step, drop down table, porta potie etc. Bulkheads are solid and well as stainless keel bolts. I hate to sell it but do not have time to use it and would rather let someone else enjoy it. Title for boat in hand as well as registration for trailer. Full payment is required within 7 days of listings ending. Hull Type: Fin w/spade rudderRig Type: Masthead SloopLOA: 24.67' / 7.52mLWL: 20.00' / 6.10mBeam: 8.00' / 2.44mListed SA: 261 ft2 / 24.25 m2Draft (max.) 4.25' / 1.30mDraft (min.) Disp. 3300 lbs./ 1497 kgs.Ballast: 1175 lbs. / 533 kgs.SA/Disp.: 18.89Bal./Disp.: 35.60%Disp./Len.: 184.15Designer: C. Raymond Hunt & Assoc.Builder: Bangor Punta Marine (USA)Construct.: FGBal. type: LeadFirst Built: 1983Last Built: # Built: AUXILIARY POWER (orig. equip.)Make: YanmarModel: Type: DieselHP: 8TANKSWater: 12 gals. / 45 ltrs.Fuel: 15 gals. / 57 ltrs.RIG DIMENSIONS KEYI: 29.75' / 9.07mJ: 9.30' / 2.83mP: 25.75' / 7.85mE: 9.50' / 2.90mPY: EY: SPL: ISP: SA(Fore.): 138.34 ft2 / 12.85 m2SA(Main): 122.31 ft2 / 11.36 m2Total(calc.)SA: 260.65 ft2 / 24.21 m2DL ratio: 184.15SA/Disp: 18.86Est. Forestay Len.: 31.17' / 9.50mBUILDERS (past & present)More about & boats built by: Jensen Marine/Cal BoatsMore about & boats built by: Bangor Punta Corp.DESIGNERMore about & boats designed by: Raymond Hunt (C.R. Hunt & Assoc.)NOTESShoal Draft version: Draft= 3.33' Bal.=1400 lbs.

1984 CAL 24' Sailboat Galvanized Tandem Trailer Rhode Island

Narragansett, Rhode Island

1968 Jensen Marine Cal 20 sailboat with 2009 Suzuki 4-stroke outboard

1968 Jensen Marine Cal 20 sailboat with 2009 Suzuki 4-stroke outboard

Carbondale, Colorado

Make Jensen Marine

Model Cal 20

Category Daysailer Sailboats

Length 20.0

1968 Jensen Marine Cal 20 fiberglass sailboat. 20' length, 7' beam. Fixed keel with 850lb ballast. 3'4" draft. 8' cockpit. 2009 4hp Suzuki 4-stroke outboard motor included. Long shaft. Only 62.6hrs. Very reliable and uses very little gas. Recently refinished trailer with new tires included. Jib and main sail are in good condition. No spinnaker. Mast, stays and sheets all in good working order. Sleeps/entertains four. 12 volt marine battery runs cabin lights stereo and a DC outlet. Running lights need to be replaced and re-wired. AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with usb/aux jacks. Two speakers. Bilge pump included and plumbed but needs to be wired. An anchor and four life vests are included. The hull has a soft spot where it sits on the trailer bunk (see photo). It pops back out as soon as it is in the water. She may not be pretty but she is complete and can be sailed as-is. It is currently on its trailer in Western Colorado and is ready to be towed away by it's new owner. Delivery within a 200 mile radius can be arranged. Please make an offer as I am motivated to sell. Thank you.

40' Cal 40 Cruiser

40' Cal 40 Cruiser

Gig Harbor, Washington

Cal 40's are classics, stable, fast, and still embarrassing some of those pricey newer boats. This Cal 40, s/v Moonday, has been owned by the same owner for 20 years, sailed locally, to Mexico, Hawaii & back to the PNW, and is waiting for a new owner. One of the best performing racer/cruisers, CAL 40s are comfortable, particulary in heavy air, and off the wind. She points as well as most modern fin keel designs with higher aspect rigs, yet she is balanced and easily sailed. A legendary racing yacht and member of the American Sailboat Hall Of Fame, these boats were the talk of the town during production in the 60's, and they are still seen on many Hawaii races and out cruising. Someone asked Stan Honey why he's sailing on a CAL 40, and the answer was "No bad Habits"! With her Monitor windvane and comortable cruising interior, s/v Moonday is a remarkable value. http://www.yachtworld.com/core/listing/pl_boat_full_detail.jsp?slim=broker&boat_id=2634924&ybw=&hosturl=gigharbor&&ywo=gigharbor&&units=Feet&access=Public&listing_id=980&url=&hosturl=gigharbor&&ywo=gigharbor&

CAL 28 Sailboat 1988 designed by C Raymond Hunt Yanmar Diesel SAILAWAY CONDITION

CAL 28 Sailboat 1988 designed by C Raymond Hunt Yanmar Diesel SAILAWAY CONDITION

Milford, Connecticut

1988 Cal 28 Sloop rigged sailboat. Designed by C Raymond Associates. This is a well respected yard maintained boat, that has been put on the market because the owner has just purchased a new boat. This is an opportunity to make a offer on a well founded and sail away condition boat. LOA 28 ft. 0 in. BEAM 10 ft. 5 in. Minimum Draft 5 ft. 3 in. Displacement 7800 lbs. Headroom 6 ft. 1 in. Yanmar Diesel Engine 2GM20F 18 hp. Fresh water cooled. 1988 model 2 blade propeller. Tanks consist of Fresh Water 20 gal. Fuel 16 gal. Approved Holding Tank. Electrical. A 12V DC Electrical System with a Balmar High Output Alternator 2 Group 27 Batteries (new 2014) 110V AC Electrical System with 30 Amp Shore Power. A Statpower 10 Amp Battery charger. Instruments. Raymarine ST60 Tridata Depth and Speed Datamarine Wind Instruments. Furuno GP-31 GPS Autohelm ST4000 Autopilot Icom IC-M402 VHF Radio Ritchie Compass GPS wheel mounted Garmin CD Stero Sails and Rigging. Deck stepped Selden Aluminum mast Hood roller furling 2 Barient 21 Primary winches 2 Barient 17 Self tailing winches 2006 Neil Pride Mainsail 2005 Neil Pride Genoa Edson Wheel Steering Accommodations. The Cal 28 has a single stateroom layout. The stateroom is forward with a V-berth. The salon features a center placed drop leaf table with a settee on port and starboard with storage behind the seat backs and above in shelves. There is a Nav station and a Galley is opposite to port. Aft there is a large Quarter Berth to port an a enclosed Head with shower to starboard. Interior highlights include: 6 ft. 1 in. headroom Propane Stove 6 Gallon Water Heater (new 2014) Large opening hatches. Clean Bright Interior. If you require further details and photos feel free to call Dr. Jack Levine at 203 982 4808. The boat is in the water and is actively being sailed. The location of the Cal 28 is Milford Harbor in Milford Connecticut. FREE! Sellers: Add a FREE map to your listings. FREE!

CAL 28 Sailboat 1988 designed by Bill Lapworth Yanmar Diesel SAIL AWAY CONDITION

CAL 28 Sailboat 1988 designed by Bill Lapworth Yanmar Diesel SAIL AWAY CONDITION

1988 Cal 28 Sloop rigged sailboat. Designed by Bill Lapworth. This is a well respected yard maintained boat, that has been put on the market because the owner has just purchased a new boat. This is an opportunity to make a offer on a well founded and sail away condition boat. LOA 28 ft. 0 in. BEAM 10 ft. 5 in. Minimum Draft 5 ft. 3 in. Displacement 7800 lbs. Headroom 6 ft. 1 in. Yanmar Diesel Engine 2GM20F 18 hp. Fresh water cooled. 1988 model 2 blade propeller. Tanks consist of Fresh Water 20 gal. Fuel 16 gal. Approved Holding Tank. Electrical. A 12V DC Electrical System with a Balmar High Output Alternator 2 Group 27 Batteries (new 2014) 110V AC Electrical System with 30 Amp Shore Power. A Statpower 10 Amp Battery charger. Instruments. Raymarine ST60 Tridata Depth and Speed Datamarine Wind Instruments. Furuno GP-31 GPS Autohelm ST4000 Autopilot Icom IC-M402 VHF Radio Ritchie Compass GPS wheel mounted Garmin CD Stero Sails and Rigging. Deck stepped Selden Aluminum mast Hood roller furling 2 Barient 21 Primary winches 2 Barient 17 Self tailing winches 2006 Neil Pride Mainsail 2005 Neil Pride Genoa Edson Wheel Steering Accommodations. The Cal 28 has a single stateroom layout. The stateroom is forward with a V-berth. The salon features a center placed drop leaf table with a settee on port and starboard with storage behind the seat backs and above in shelves. There is a Nav station and a Galley is opposite to port. Aft there is a large Quarter Berth to port an a enclosed Head with shower to starboard. Interior highlights include: 6 ft. 1 in. headroom Propane Stove 6 Gallon Water Heater (new 2014) Large opening hatches. Clean Bright Interior. If you require further details and photos feel free to call Dr. Jack Levine at 203 982 4808. The boat is in the water and is actively being sailed. The location of the Cal 28 is Milford Harbor in Milford Connecticut.

1978 Cal Yachts 2-27

1978 Cal Yachts 2-27

Millersville, Maryland

Private Seller (443) 994-1407 Photos Photo 1 Photo 2 Close Request Information * Name First Name * Email Telephone (optional) Best Time to Contact Anytime Morning Mid-day Evening Question/Comments (optional) Shop Safely: Protect Your Money. By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use. Contact Seller 1978 Cal Yachts 2-27,1978 Cal 2-27 SailboatGreat boat that is in very clean condition. Many extras and upgrades!27 Foot, 4'6" draft. Completely updated Atomic 4 inboard gas 30hp engine. Full support still available for this bulletproof engine! Harken Roller furling system, 150 Genoa, Storm jib and Main sails.Northstar 8 inch GPS/Chartplotter/Depth Sounder.Two anchors, chain and two complete anchor rodes. New interior that sleeps 5. Custom interior carpet.Pressure fresh water system. Electric toilet.Alcohol 2 burner stove. Custom Textaline Cockpit Cushions.All Exterior Teak preserved with Cetol Marine Finish this year. Two Batteries with new 20 Amp Charger installed in the last year.Bottom painted 2013 with Multi-year Pettit Paint, with new Prop installed as well.Mast/Rigging professionally tuned 2014. This boat is ready to sail away. Needs nothing done to it to enjoy this summer on the Bay! We upgraded to a slightly bigger boat so we need to move on and let this well cared for boat go to it's 3rd owner. We've owned it for 32 years!Please contact for further specs and full details on this great boat! Asking $9800 OBO. Please contact to schedule a viewing and make see in person the details and cleanliness of this boat! Boat is located on the Severn River in Maryland, outside of Annapolis, MD. We will deliver the boat by water within a reasonable distance from Annapolis. You might see cheaper boats in this size, however Cal built a very good and strong boat. After seeing all the details in this boat You'll be glad you took the time to consider this turn key boat! $9800, 4439941407 Be sure: Get a boat history report|Finance this boat|Get an insurance quote|

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Milford Boats

milford 20 sailboat

Sharpies developed along the Connecticut shore of Long Island Sound, especially in and around New Haven, during the middle 19th century. They featured a long narrow hull, flat bottom with shallow draft, often two masts, “leg ‘o mutton” sails and a rounded stern which made it easier to tong for oysters in the shallow water

The Milford 20 is a modern interpretation of the sharpie type, and was inspired by the Floridays design of noted naval architect Mark Fitzgerald of Thomaston, Maine.

This design has been developed with the amateur builder in mind. Construction is ply over a timber frame. Intended as a safe, easy to sail recreational vessel for sheltered waters, her shallow draft will allow adventures where bigger boats can’t venture. As a camp cruiser, she will provide cosy accommodation for two, or alternatively carry some camping gear and step ashore.

  • Length overall: 6250 mm. (20′ 6″)
  • Beam: 1620 mm. (5′ 5″)
  • Draft: 250 / 1000 mm. (10″ / 39″)
  • Sail Area: 150 sq.ft.
  • Displacement: 600 kg. (1300 lbs.)
  • Towing weight: 650 kg. (including trailer)

See reviews page for details of magazine reviews

Click to buy plans:

Click to download Study Plans:

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COMMENTS

  1. Milford Boats

    The Milford 20 is a modern interpretation of the sharpie type, and was inspired by the Floridays design of noted naval architect Mark Fitzgerald of Thomaston, Maine. This design has been developed with the amateur builder in mind. Construction is ply over a timber frame. Intended as a safe, easy to sail recreational vessel for sheltered waters ...

  2. Milford 20

    A New Zealand Sharpie. The diminutive yacht OYSTER, a Milford 20, is a modern take on the early New Haven sharpies that worked the oyster beds along Long Island Sound's Connecticut shores. Inspired by Mark Fitzgerald's FLORIDAYS in Reuel B. Parker's The Sharpie Book, the 20′ 6″ OYSTER was designed and built by Neville Watkinson of ...

  3. Milford 20

    Milford 20. The Milford 20 is a trailer-able shoal draft sharpie schooner modelled on the New Haven sharpies of the late 19th. century. It was inspired by Mark Fitzgerald's FLORIDAYS design, as published in Reuel Parker's Sharpie Book and featured in Watercraft Magazine. The design is endorsed by Fitzgerald as an alternative to FLORIDAYS ...

  4. sharpie Archives

    T he diminutive yacht OYSTER, a Milford 20, is a modern take on the early New Haven sharpies that worked the oyster beds along Long Island Sound's Connecticut shores. Inspired by Mark Fitzgerald's FLORIDAYS in Reuel B. Parker's The Sharpie Book, the 20′ 6″ OYSTER was designed and built by Neville Watkinson of Milford Boats in Christchurch, New Zealand, and carries either a cat-ketch ...

  5. Milford 20 Plans

    Milford 20 Plans. Milford 20 Plans 15 pages of plans, plus 52 page build manual. Click on the Paypal button. A Paypal account is not required. $80.00. Milford 20 Plans. 15 pages of plans, plus 52 page build manual. Click on the Paypal button. A Paypal account is not required. ...

  6. Wm. J. Kolkmeyer Yachts, LLC in Milford

    Call Now. (Located at Milford Boat Works), Milford, Connecticut, 06460, United States. Wm. J. Kolkmeyer Yachts, LLC is located in Milford Harbor at the beautiful Milford Boat Works known for its services and ships store. This marine location is a short motor in from Long Island Soun. Clear Filter Owner: broker-wm-j-kolkmeyer-yachts-llc-17584.

  7. 10 Best Small Sailboats (Under 20 Feet)

    Catalina 16.5. jlodrummer. Catalina Yachts are synonymous with bigger boats but they have some great and smaller boats too such as Catalina 16.5. This is one of the best small sailboats that are ideal for family outings given that it has a big and roomy cockpit, as well as a large storage locker.

  8. Exclusive Fiordland Cruise

    20% off Milford Sound Day Cruises. Book a Milford Sound Day Cruise this March & save 20%. Promo code: MILFORD20. Close. Experiences ... The meals were excellent, the side tours from the boat catered for all passengers and we saw some wonderful parts of New Zealand and learnt such a lot about NZ's early history in the deep south. Teas and ...

  9. Milford Sound Cruises

    20% off Milford Sound Day Cruises. Book a Milford Sound Day Cruise this March & save 20%. Promo code: MILFORD20. Close. Experiences ... Cruise in style on board the newly refurbished Milford Haven. More than a boat, the Haven is a cruising bar and restaurant. Enhance your cruise with something from our café-style menu and pair it perfectly ...

  10. Sailboat Rentals in Milford, CT

    Milford, CT is a well-known boating destination in the US, perfect for a memorable experience on a Sailo boat. The sailboat rentals are popular for both locals and tourists and a great choice if you want to spend some quality time with your family or friends. 23 charters are currently available with or without captain, lined up in the Milford's marinas, waiting for their guests.

  11. Paddle Pub Milford CT

    We meet at the public dock located in the Milford Boat Ramp parking lot, near end of Shipyard Lane (5-10 minute walk from parking). Free parking is located at Fowler Park at 1 Shipyard Lane, Milford, CT 06460, or other Public Parking lots located around town. ... Yes, There are 20 available seats, including pedaling and non-pedaling ones. Keep ...

  12. Milford 20 Designer: Neville Watkinson & Mark Fitzgerald ...

    Almost brand new and top spec. Romilly built by CoCoBe in Holland www.romilly.nl, delivered in May 2013 and very lightly used. Fitted with all the extras, cream sails, wood trim, fresh water tanks, press. water, deck shower, automatic bilge pump/manual bilge pump, 12V/220 sockets, shore power, battery charger, nav. lights and most importantly a Mastervolt […]

  13. Reviews

    The Milford 20 has been reviewed in the following publications: Boating New Zealand Magazine. December 2016, Matt Vance Author; Small Boats Monthly* September 2017, Peter Braithwaite Author; Wooden Boat Magazines "Small Boats Annual 2019", Peter Braithwaite Author; The Shed Magazine Issue 107 Mar/Apr 2023, Ritchie Wilson Author;

  14. Boats for sale in Milford

    Motorized yachts are more common than sailing boats in Milford with 14 powerboats listed for sale right now, versus 3 listings for sailboats. Yacht prices in Milford. Prices for yachts in Milford start at $6,750 for the lowest priced boats, up to $1,650,000 for the most expensive listings, with an average overall yacht value of $66,900.

  15. Rent a Allied Seabreeze 35 in Milford, CT on Boatsetter

    This hold is released 48 hours after the booking is complete, if no claims are made. The security deposit amount for the boat you are booking will be outlined during the check-out process. Learn more. Rent for $440. Sail aboard ALCOR, a classic 1969 Allied Seabreeze Yawl, owned and lovingly maintained for over 40 years by Phil, a coast guard li...

  16. Sailboat Listings sailboats for sale by owner

    35.5' Endeavour E35 Presently on the hard for winter storage at Morgans Marina, New Jersey Asking $35,000

  17. Cal 20 Sailboat Boats for sale

    1968 Jensen Marine Cal 20 fiberglass sailboat. 20' length, 7' beam. Fixed keel with 850lb ballast. 3'4" draft. 8' cockpit. 2009 4hp Suzuki 4-stroke outboard motor included. ... Dr. Jack Levine at 203 982 4808. The boat is in the water and is actively being sailed. The location of the Cal 28 is Milford Harbor in Milford Connecticut. FREE ...

  18. Milford Boats

    The Milford 20 is a modern interpretation of the sharpie type, and was inspired by the Floridays design of noted naval architect Mark Fitzgerald of Thomaston, Maine. This design has been developed with the amateur builder in mind. Construction is ply over a timber frame. Intended as a safe, easy to sail recreational vessel for sheltered waters ...

  19. Milford 20

    The Milford 20 design appeals as a very elegant, classic craft for home building, and gives a great sailing experience for both experienced and inexperienced sailors. It also would be a suitable craft for a couple or family of four; a delight to sail and appealing to those who want a safe boat for leisure and pleasure.

  20. Preowned sailboats for sale under 20 feet

    Preowned sailboats for sale under 20 feet preowned sailboats for sale by owner. Home. Register & Post. View All Sailboats. Search. ... Milford, Connecticut Asking $13,000. 34' cataliina catalina 34 rainbow bay marina oahu, Hawaii Asking $43,500. 40' Valiant 40 Cutter Guaymas Sonora Mexico,

  21. Sailboats for sale in Milford, Kansas

    Sailboats for sale in Milford, Kansas | Facebook Marketplace. Buy used sailboats locally or easily list yours for sale for free. Marketplace › Vehicles › Boats › Sailboats. Sailboats Near Milford, Kansas. $200$250. $1,500. $3,000$3,750. $11,900.

  22. Preowned sailboats for sale under 20 feet

    Preowned sailboats for sale under 20 feet preowned sailboats for sale by owner. Home. Register & Post. View All Sailboats. Search. Avoid Fraud. ... Milford, Connecticut Asking $13,000. 34' cataliina catalina 34 rainbow bay marina oahu, Hawaii Asking $43,500. 31' Allmand 31-II Punta Gorda, Florida