best new sailboat under 200k

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Best Production Cruiser Under $200,000: Hunter 356

• By Tim Murphy
• Updated: December 17, 2001

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In the pages of Cruising World, we’ve often lobbied boatbuilders for more affordable, seaworthy cruising boats of modest size that, in the spirit of the 1960 Pearson Triton, open the possibilities of cruising to more sailors. Seven of the boats we sailed come closest to answering that request. These are series-built sloops of traditional cruising design marked by moderate displacement-to-length and sail area-to-displacement ratios as well as simple rigs and sail plans. Of these seven boats, three are priced below the $200K mark.

The Etap 34s is a sprightly sloop from Belgium that’s built with enough foam between its hull skins to keep floating–and sailing–even after it’s fully flooded (though we didn’t get the chance to test it that way). The Beneteau 393 is a spacious, two- or three-cabin sloop modeled on last year’s successful 473.

But the boat that stood out was the aft-cockpit Hunter 356, a boat Ralph called “a paradigm shift for Hunter.” He liked the influence he saw from Glenn Henderson, a yacht designer known for his performance boats; for a little over a year, he’s been Hunter’s in-house designer. “Henderson’s input has really come through. This girl, driven hard for a shoal-draft boat, balanced nicely and drove fairly easily.”

Alvah found the cockpit layout clean. “I liked that big stainless-steel arch with the main traveler on top of it. It was a good handhold and a good location for cruisers to add wind generators, solar panels, or antenna, and the stainless-steel work was good.”

As on all the boats, including those that took prizes, there were a few items the judges would have preferred to see different. “I was concerned about those large lockers on the sugar scoop that drain into the bilge,” said Alvah. “They’re well gasketed, but I think the first thing anyone would need to do is get bigger hinges and better latches and make absolutely sure they’re not opening that kind of area that low.” It’s a trait that would be more serious if the 356 were intended as an all-oceans passagemaker, but Hunter calls it a coastal cruiser. The European Community rates it “Category B,” with usage limited to seas of four meters (about 13 feet) and winds of Force 8 (40 knots).

Compared with Hunters past, many interior features on the 356 were upgraded: Corian countertops, solid teak woodwork instead of veneers, radiused corners with fiddles. “The galley was squared away,” said Skip. “Nice freezer, good insulation. The Adler/Barbour compressor under the settee had good ventilation and very good access to work on it.”

Skip liked the electrical installation, too. “Hunter’s put antichafe around all the holes in all the bulkheads that have plumbing or wiring coming through, something most boats twice the price, three times the price, don’t do. Also, they left lots of slack in the wire leads at the electrical panel so you could pull them out and work on them.” The helm drew praise from Ralph: “I liked their steering concept: a drag-link system with a sealed rudder tube that ties the deck and hull together. No leaks, no need for a stuffing box.” Alvah liked that the wheel was small enough to walk around.

Carol summed up her impression of the 356: “It was a comfortable boat to sail. The design concept was stability with a shoal keel, and I think it met that.”

In today’s new-boat marketplace, this 35-footer, priced at $114,000, stands out as a remarkable value.

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10 best three cabin/stateroom sailboats for under $200,000.

There is a great discussion on a Cruisers Forum thread where the fellow is looking for a three stateroom sailboat for a reasonable price. I thought I would add to and distill the information there. The below list consists ten of the best live aboard, bluewater sailboats for a family with children that needs three staterooms. Such a family usually has a budget of between $100,000 to $200,000. They have some sailing experience including chartering, lake racing, and maybe owning a smaller sailboat in the 30 to 40 foot range. They need an extra stateroom or two so their children can have their own space while cruising. This necessarily will push the yacht into the 45 to 55 foot length range.

This price and accommodations plan is somewhat of an elusive find. Especially, the three stateroom, center cockpit nearing $100,000 is a sailboat in high demand. I have tried to avoid pirate ships like a Force 50 which I do not consider attractive to the mainstream clientele. Most of the options below have standard fin keel and skeg rudder underbodies for normal performance. Please comment below with any suggested additions or subtractions. I have listed the sailboats in alphabetical order of brand name.

• Amel Super Maramu 53 : Nuanced design of French yard Amel. Has a third berth along the walkthrough, so really is more of a two stateroom design. Likely priced over $200,000.
• Beneteau Idylle 51 : One of the older, classic Beneteaus that had a heavier build. Is an aft cockpit design which does not separate the living quarters as well as in a center cockpit.
• Gulfstar 50 : Vince Lazzara design. There are both Mark I versions with two staterooms and Mark II versions with three. These are getting a bit old. Forerunner of the 47′ Stevens design.
• Hylas 47 : Sparkman & Stephens design skill and Queen Long quality. Early ones were called Stevens 47’s. Hylas later extended the design to become a 49-footer.
• Irwin 52 : Roomy Ted Irwin design with raised quarterdeck and classic styling.
• Morgan 51 Out Island : The Morgan 51 OI is a lot of boat for the usual price of near $100,000. Ketch rig.
• Passport 51 : This older Stan Huntington design is heavily built with a third bunk berth stateroom.
• Taswell 49 : Ta Shing build and Bill Dixon design. Comes in a deck saloon version. Is on the higher end of the price range.
• Tayana 47 : Robert Perry design which comes in two and three stateroom versions. Was extended to become the Tayana 48.
• Vagabond 47 : This is an older, classic build and design. Maintaining the teak on deck is a long-term effort. If you like the Vagabond 47, you could look at other character boats like the CT 54, Force 50, and Mikelson 51.

One Reply to “10 Best Three Cabin/Stateroom Sailboats For Under $200,000”

You can get a Amel 55 with three state rooms if you have the stearn master state room split in two.

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Best Inexpensive Bluewater Sailboats

Sailing is an exhilarating experience, but it can be expensive. If you are looking for the best inexpensive bluewater sailboats, then this article will help!

The best inexpensive bluewater sailboats are the ones that are small, fast, and sturdy. If you can find one that is easy to build as well, then you will have to pay much less for it. These sailboats are also seaworthy enough to handle the open ocean without being too big or complicated.

Sailing is a great way to spend your free time. It's an activity that has been enjoyed by people for centuries, and it can be done with just about anyone of any age or physical ability. The only problem many people have is the cost associated with purchasing a boat, which can really put a damper on things if you are on a tight budget. But don't worry! We have found some of the best inexpensive bluewater sailboats, so you won't have to break your bank account in order to enjoy sailing!

There are many options available, but not all of them are worth your money. That is why we have looked at some of the top boats on the market and picked out our favorites. Whether you're an experienced sailor or just getting started, these boats will get the job done right!

Table of contents

‍ 1. Cape Dory 30

{{boat-info="/boats/cape-dory-30"}}

If you're looking for a quality, affordable bluewater sailboat, the Cape Dory 30 is definitely worth a look. This boat has been cruising the world's oceans for over 30 years and has a well-deserved reputation for being sturdy, reliable and easy to sail.

The  Cape Dory 30  is a moderate displacement boat that's designed for coastal and offshore cruising. She features a full keel with a rudder, making her stable and seaworthy in rough seas. The hull is hand-laid fiberglass with balsa core construction, which makes her strong and durable. The deck is also fiberglass with molded-in non-skid surfaces for safety while sailing.

The layout of the Cape Dory 30 is simple yet functional. The cockpit is roomy, with plenty of space for lounging around but not so much that you can't work the sails if needed. The self-draining cockpit has two lockers underneath that are perfect for storing tools or other nautical gear that you need to keep dry.

This bluewater cruiser offers a moderate sail area, which makes it easy to handle even under windy conditions. Because of this, she requires some wind to get going -- in 10 knots of breeze, she can reach speeds up to 6 knots under power and 7 knots under sail. As far as storage space goes, there are lockers on both sides of the berth area plus shelves above the berth for items like books and clothing.

The Cape Dory 30 was initially outfitted with worm gear steering. This sort of gear is durable, simple to use, and does not require a cockpit steering pedestal. The wheel will also keep the rudder in place without the help of a brake. The biggest disadvantage is that there isn't much rudder feedback, making it difficult to know when the boat is properly balanced. Not to mention worm gear steering will not help you sail better.

The berthing area is good, with enough room for two people to sleep comfortably. There's also plenty of headroom at six feet. The Cape Dory 30 is a great boat for coastal cruising, ocean passages, and extended cruising. She has all the features that you need to make your journey comfortable while still being able to handle a variety of sailing conditions. The estimated price for the  Cape Dory 30  ranges from $12,000 to $32,000

• Sturdy and reliable with a long history of ocean crossings
• Good performance in windy conditions
• Functional layout with plenty of storage space
• Comfortable berthing area for two people
• May require modifications for ocean passages
• Not as fast as some other bluewater sailboats
• A tad expensive for an entry-level cruiser

2. Sabre 28

{{boat-info="/boats/sabre-28"}}

The  Sabre 28  is another fine bluewater cruiser in this price range. Made by Sabre Yachts, these boats have a solid reputation for being reliable, seaworthy cruisers that will last you for many years to come.

When making their 28-foot bluewater sailboat, Sabre Yachts took every aspect into consideration when designing her. They made her strong with a full keel and fiberglass hull construction but light enough to allow for better sailing abilities under power or sail. She also has plenty of storage space with lockers on both sides of the berth plus shelves above the berth to give you ample room for all your belongings while cruising.

The Sabre 28 is built with a solid fiberglass hull and deck, making her strong and durable. She has a moderate displacement of 6,000 pounds and features a full keel with encapsulated ballast. This helps her handle well in various sailing conditions while still providing good performance.

While she may not be fast compared to other bluewater sailboats in her class, the Sabre 28 makes up for it with her great handling and seaworthiness. She can handle a wide variety of sailing conditions with ease, making her the perfect boat for coastal cruising, ocean passages and even extended cruising.

The Sabre 28 comes standard with wheel steering, which gives you better control over the boat in varying conditions. There is also plenty of cockpit space for lounging around or working the sails. And because of her moderate sail area, she's easy to handle even under windy conditions.

The berthing area is good, with enough room for two people to sleep comfortably. There's also plenty of headroom at six feet. The cabin is spacious and well-ventilated, making it a great place to relax after a long day of sailing.

The Sabre 28 is also outfitted for single or double hand sailing, making her the perfect choice for couples or small families who want to explore new waterways together. She's easy to sail and forgiving, making her the perfect boat for novice sailors. The  Sabre 28  will set you back anywhere from $7000 to $27000. If you're looking for a smaller cruising sailboat, the Sabre 28 should definitely be on your list!

• Solid reputation for being a reliable and seaworthy cruiser
• Handles a wide variety of sailing conditions well
• Good performance under power or sail
• Plenty of storage space for all your belongings
• Not as fast as some other bluewater sailboats in her class
• Designed primarily as a coastal cruiser so it may not perform well in open waters without modifications
•  Can only accommodate two people comfortably underneath the V-berth (greater than that might be too crowded)

3. Island Packet 31

{{boat-info="/boats/island-packet-31"}}

The  Island Packet 31  is another great bluewater cruiser for people looking to explore new waterways. They are known as one of the best sailboats for bluewater cruising due to their strength and durability.

If you're looking for a bluewater sailboat with stability, speed and comfort, then the Island Packet 31 might be the boat for you! She has excellent performance under power or sail, can handle harsh conditions with ease, and is comfortable enough to spend long periods aboard.

Designed by Bob Johnson (a boat builder and naval architect), this 31-foot boat was made specifically for open ocean sailing. Her hull is strong yet thin, making her fast while still being able to handle a wide variety of conditions. The Island Packet 31 is built with a solid fiberglass hull and deck, making her strong and durable. She has a moderate displacement of 11,000 pounds and features a full keel with encapsulated ballast. This helps her handle well in various sailing conditions while still providing good performance.

The Island Packet 31 is also built with a full keel, giving her plenty of stability should the weather become rough while out at sea. She was designed to handle large amounts of wind and waves without losing her composure, making her perfect for bluewater cruising!

She's also easy to sail, even under intense winds and stormy conditions. She has very good stability with a wide beam and moderate displacement, making it nearly impossible to capsize while sailing in open water.

The  Island Packet 31  is easy to sail and forgiving, making her a great choice for novice sailors. With a top speed of 8 knots, she's not the fastest boat on the water, but she's certainly no slouch. She also has a shallow draft of just 2 feet, 6 inches, which makes her ideal for exploring coral reefs and other shallow waters.

Though she can be somewhat slow when traveling under power or sailing alone (due to the long keel), the Island Packet is able to reach speeds up to 8 knots when using both methods together. This is still quite impressive when compared to other sailboats in her class.

One downside to this boat's construction is the lack of plywood in the deck and cabin. This can cause some concern among people who are looking for a bluewater sailboat that can withstand harsh weather conditions. However, it should be noted that the Island Packet has numerous positive reviews from sailors - proving her strength and reliability.

The Island Packet 31 is a great choice for people who want a sturdy and reliable bluewater sailboat. She's perfect for small families or groups of friends who want to explore new waterways together. With her stability, speed and comfort, she's sure to make your next sailing trip an enjoyable one! Depending on the model, the price ranges from $35,000 to $50,000.

• Excellent performance under power or sail
• Great option for novice sailors
• May require some modifications for offshore sailing (depending on your experience level)
• Some are concerned about the lack of plywood in the deck and cabin construction.
• A tad expensive

4. Caliber 40 Sailboat

{{boat-info="/boats/caliber-40"}}

Bluewater cruisers are on the lookout for a robust, durable boat that is simple to operate and can handle all of their belongings for a lengthy trip without breaking the bank. With features like that, the  Caliber 40  comes to mind, and it's distinctive in that it's a boat that (with modifications) has been developed over many decades and has demonstrated success.

Caliber Yachts Inc. was founded in 1979 by George and Michael McCreary, along with Marshall Jones, as a backyard boatbuilding business. The brothers grew up sailing in the bay area and across Florida and the Caribbean, so they were no strangers to the sailing world.

The layout of the Caliber 40 is comfortable and accommodating for a cruising couple, with six feet, four inches of headroom and plenty of storage. There's also an optional in-mast furling system to make sail handling a breeze. The cockpit is roomy and perfect for lounging around or entertaining guests.

Because of her heavy displacement, she requires some assistance from the wind. However, sailing 5 knots in 9 knots of wind with a beam reach isn't bad and can last up to 140 miles in the trade winds, which is not too shabby. This sailboat sails well and has a surprisingly light helm. The boat heels to 15 degrees, but it doesn't have the signature hobbyhorse effect that heavy displacement boats typically have.

Her overall performance is respectable, with a top speed of 9 knots under power in 10 knots of wind. In ideal conditions, she can reach up to 14.5 knots under power, so this one's no slouch when it comes to getting around quickly or having fun on the water!

In terms of storage space, there are six lockers below for all your gear and a large anchor well for bigger stuff like a spare anchor and chain, as well as other nautical tools you may need during your trip. There's also plenty of headroom at six feet, four inches. As a storage unit, the Caliber 40 has a couple of hanging lockers and shelves that are perfect for keeping belongings organized and out of the way.

The berth is full-size with plenty of width to fit two people comfortably or three in an emergency situation. One drawback about the berth is that there's only room underneath to store suitcases, so you'll have to be creative if you plan to keep anything else under there.

This boat can be outfitted for single or double hand sailing, depending on your preference! It's easy to see why this popular cruising yacht has been around for decades -- it's roomy, strong, sturdy and built to last a lifetime.

The major downside to this boat is that it can be expensive. The Caliber 40 can range anywhere from $100,000 to $200,000. However, it is possible to get a better deal on older models.

Overall, the  Caliber 40  is a great boat for coastal cruising, ocean passages, and extended cruising. It has all the creature comforts that you need to make your journey comfortable while still being able to handle a variety of sailing conditions. If you're in the market for, well-made cruiser and are willing to spill some cash, the Caliber 40 should definitely be on your list!

• Roomy and comfortable for a cruising couple
• Durable and long-lasting with a cored hull and deck
• Respectable performance, with a top speed of 9 knots under power
• Full-size berth that can comfortably fit two people or three in an emergency situation
• Only room to store suitcases under the berth
• May require modifications to be fully equipped for ocean passages
• Newer models are very expensive

5. Endeavour 37

{{boat-info="/boats/endeavour-37"}}

The  Endeavour 37  is a great option for people who want a bluewater sailboat that can handle harsh weather conditions. She has excellent performance under power or sail and good stability and storage space.

If you're looking for a sailing boat that can withstand harsh conditions, the Endeavour 37 might be a perfect choice! She's known as one of the best bluewater cruising yachts due to her ability to handle large amounts of wind and waves without much trouble.

This classic yacht has a long list of positive reviews from sailors - proving she's reliable and durable enough to take you on countless adventures throughout the world. The majority of owner reviews give this boat high ratings, with most being four stars or better.

With a displacement of 21,000 pounds and a beam of 12 feet, the Endeavour 37 is not only durable but also quite spacious. She has more than enough room for any sailor - whether you're cruising with your significant other or taking your family out on an extended voyage!

Even though she's known to be strong and reliable, the Endeavour is also fast and comfortable under all conditions. She can reach speeds up to 7 knots with two powerful diesel engines while cruising in calm waters. Her top speed drops slightly when sailing in rougher weather or against stronger winds - down to 6 knots.

She's also very easy to maneuver with either power source at hand. Her Perkins 4-108 diesel engines make it simple to get her to where you want when you want.

The Endeavour 37 is equipped for cruising, with plenty of storage space for all your gear. There's a large V-berth that can comfortably fit two people, as well as an enclosed head with a marine toilet and sink. The cabin is spacious and well-ventilated, making it a great place to relax after a long day of sailing.

Though the Endeavour 37 is a high-quality boat, it's important to keep in mind that she does have some downsides - she can be costly to maintain. The Endeavour 37 can be expensive to maintain, making her a costly vessel to own and operate. If you decide to purchase this boat, make sure you have enough money saved up for regular upkeep!

Another downside is its poor up sail performance - especially in light winds. When sailing the Endeavour 37, you have to have a good sail plan and be careful not to use too much power under certain conditions.

Though the Endeavour has a few downsides, she does have a lot of benefits as well - such as her impressive speed and durability under all weather conditions. The  Endeavour 37  is estimated to be around $20,000 to $50,000. It's important to weigh both sides before making your final decision, but overall most people are very happy with their purchase!

• Powerful wind and sea boat
• Strong construction capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions
• Plenty of storage space for any sailor or family
• Good stability and handling abilities
• Poor up sail performance
• A bit expensive to maintain (depending on user experience)

6. Tartan 37

{{boat-info="/boats/sparkman-stephens-tartan-37"}}

The  Tartan 37  is a seaworthy, sturdy boat that's known for its strength and stability. She's very similar to the Endeavour 37 in terms of both construction and performance - with two significant exceptions: she doesn't have as much storage space, and her overall exterior design is less attractive.

With a displacement of 15,500 pounds and a beamwidth of 12 feet, the Tartan 37 can handle large amounts of wind or waves without any trouble. Like the Endeavour 37, she has two powerful diesel engines, making it simple to maneuver even in rougher conditions.

With an overall length of 37 feet 2 inches, you'll find that this sailboat offers quite a bit of room for its size. There's more than enough space for a few people to sleep comfortably, and you'll find that it's easy to move around even when at sea.

Though the Tartan 37 is very reliable and durable, she has some downsides, such as her high maintenance costs, small water tank, and inefficient interior design. If you're spending most of your time on the boat, then these will likely be little issues that don't take away from your overall experience.

If you do decide to purchase this boat, make sure you can afford all the necessary upkeep it requires! It's also important to note that owning a Tartan 37 comes with its fair share of risk as well - they haven't been manufactured for over 30 years, which means there isn't much help available should you run into some problems down the line.

The  Tartan 37  comes at around $34,000 to $70,000.

• Sturdy boat with a strong design capable of handling large waves and winds
• Easy to maneuver even in rougher weather conditions due to her powerful diesel engines
• Plenty of space for both people out on the water and gear you need to store ashore
• Not as many storage spaces as similar sailboats (such as the Tartan 37)
• Higher maintenance costs than most other vessels on this list
• Small water tank that can easily be tainted if not careful when cleaning or using it
• Inefficient interior design that doesn't allow for too much privacy among family members or friends who may venture abroad from time to time

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13 Dirt-Cheap Liveaboard Sailboats (That Are Actually Good)

When it comes to selecting a dirt-cheap liveaboard sailboat, you don't have to compromise on quality. There are many classic models and a few hidden gems that provide comfort, space, and sailing capabilities at a very affordable price. In this article, you'll find a list of classic liveaboard sailboats, as well as a few original finds that can fit your budget.

Liveaboard sailboats that are cheap but actually good include Westsail 32, Alberg 30, Tayana 37, Catalina 30, Ericson 35, Albin Vega 27, Bristol 32, Morgan 323, Contessa 32, Pearson 365, Hunter 31, Cal 34, and Tartan 30. The prices of these boats range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more.

Living aboard a sailboat on a budget doesn't mean you have to settle for less. These affordable boats can still provide the comfort and performance you're looking for. We've included some models that you can find on Craigslist.

• These budget-friendly liveaboard sailboats offer a great combination of affordability, performance, and comfort, making them ideal choices for living the sailing dream.
• Some classic models that provide you with enough room to move around and store your belongings include the Alberg 30 and the Tayana 37.
• Classic models such as the Westsail 32, Alberg 30, Tayana 37, Catalina 30, Ericson 35, and Albin Vega 27 are known for their seaworthiness and versatility.
• The cheaper the boat, the more likely you'll need to invest in repairs and spare parts over the years. This is where some more obscure finds can surprise you, such as the Contessa 32 and the Cal 34, which offer easy maintenance and relatively cheap spare parts.

On this page:

13 cheapest liveaboard sailboats that are good, key features of a good liveaboard sailboat, classic liveaboard sailboat models, affordable liveaboard sailboats.

When looking for an affordable yet reliable liveaboard sailboat , there are several important features to consider. These can greatly affect your overall experience and satisfaction with your chosen boat.

Layout and space : On a liveaboard sailboat, space and layout are crucial. You'll want a boat that offers efficient use of space, a comfortable living area, a functional galley, and adequate storage. Generally, 25 to 35 feet in length is the ideal size range for a liveaboard.

Sailing performance : Even if you plan to live aboard primarily , sailing performance should still be a priority. Consider its ability to handle light winds, heavy winds, and everything in between. Your boat should be able to handle various sea conditions and be easily maneuvered. It should be versatile enough for various wind conditions and sea states.

Hull design : The hull design of your sailboat will affect its stability and performance in the water. Look for a design that offers a good balance between comfort, safety, and speed. A full-keel or modified full-keel design provides stability and tracking in rough seas, while a fin keel offers better maneuverability in tight spaces like harbors and marinas.

Maintenance and construction : Pay attention to the boat's construction materials and quality. Fiberglass and aluminum are popular choices due to their durability and low maintenance requirements. Wooden boats tend to be more affordable but may require more maintenance and care.

In this section, we will discuss some classic liveaboard sailboat models that are known for their affordability, functionality, and reliability. These boats have stood the test of time and are excellent choices, especially for novices.

Westsail 32 is known as "the cruiser that launched the cruising boom"

The Westsail 32 is a sturdy, reliable, and comfortable liveaboard option for those seeking a classic, bluewater cruising boat. Designed by William Crealock, it boasts heavy construction, a full keel, a roomy interior, and seaworthy capabilities. With many of these boats available on the market, you can find a Westsail 32 in good condition at affordable prices.

Alberg 30 is a classic full-keel cruiser known for its seaworthy design

The Alberg 30 is a classic design from the 1960s, created by Carl Alberg, and built by Whitby Boat Works in Canada. This boat is known for being easy to sail and is a perfect choice for new liveaboards. The Alberg 30 has a simple layout, adequate living space, and enough storage to make it a suitable option for long-term living, all while keeping to a budget.

Tayana 37 is known for its seaworthiness and durability

Designed by Robert Perry and built in Taiwan, the Tayana 37 is a popular and capable bluewater cruiser. This well-built classic boat is known for its comfort, safety, and ease of handling when sailing long distances. The Tayana 37 offers plenty of space and storage, making it a delightfully practical liveaboard choice, even for small families or couples.

Catalina 30 is one of the most popular sailboats of all time

The Catalina 30 is one of the most popular sailboats in its size range and has a reputation for being an incredibly spacious boat, given its 30-foot length. Designed by Frank Butler, the Catalina 30 is known for its roomy interior and user-friendly layout, making it a fantastic option for liveaboard enthusiasts. The affordability and availability of the Catalina 30 also make it a top choice among sailors. It’s a tried-and-true option for liveaboard enthusiasts.

Ericson 35 has solid build quality

For those looking for a slightly larger liveaboard sailboat, the Ericson 35 is an excellent option. Designed by Bruce King and built by Ericson Yachts, it is praised for its solid build quality and comfortable accommodations. The practical layout and generous storage space make the boat a desirable choice for those looking to live aboard on a budget .

Albin Vega 27 is a proven ocean cruiser

The Albin Vega 27 is a smaller liveaboard option for those who prioritize simplicity and affordability. Designed by Per Brohäll and built in Sweden, the Albin Vega 27 is a proven ocean cruiser with a surprising amount of space for a boat of its size. If you're looking for an affordable liveaboard sailboat with a compact yet functional layout, the Albin Vega 27 might be the perfect fit for you.

In your quest for a dirt-cheap liveaboard sailboat that's actually good, there are some finds worth considering. Let's dive into these affordable gems that were built for liveaboard life and sailing.

Bristol 32 is known for its classic design and solid construction

The Bristol 32 is a classic liveaboard sailboat with a solid reputation for its sturdy construction and excellent sailing performance. Designed by Ted Hood, this boat is known for its comfortable living spaces and adequate storage. A used Bristol 32 can be found at a reasonable price, making it perfect for those with a tight budget.

Morgan 323 provides stability and safety

Next is the Morgan 323, which offers a great deal of interior space for a 32-foot sailboat. The well-designed layout ensures you have all the necessary amenities for living aboard while maintaining high sailing performance. Equipped with a full keel and skeg-hung rudder, the Morgan 323 provides stability and safety while underway.

Contessa 32 has a solid reputation for being safe, seaworthy, and comfortable

A British classic, the Contessa 32 is a small yet capable liveaboard sailboat , perfect for a couple or solo sailor. With its sleek lines, excellent performance, and well-built hull, the Contessa 32 is a go-to choice for many budget-conscious sailors. It's a rugged, seaworthy vessel that can handle various weather conditions with ease.

Pearson 365 is suitable for long-term and weekend cruises

The Pearson 365 is another popular liveaboard sailboat, known for its spacious interior, comfortable accommodations, and reasonable price. With a roomy cockpit, plenty of storage, and a versatile sail plan, the Pearson 365 is well-suited for both long-term liveaboards and weekend cruisers.

Hunter 31 is well-rounded and spacious

Affordable and easy to find, the Hunter 31 is a popular choice for budget-conscious sailors searching for a suitable liveaboard. With its beamy hull, the Hunter 31 boasts a spacious and functional interior. While not a traditional bluewater cruiser, the Hunter 31 can hold its own in coastal and nearshore environments.

Cal 34 offers solid sailing performance

Another solid liveaboard option is the Cal 34. This well-designed sailboat has earned a reputation for its quality construction and comfortable living spaces. The Cal 34 strikes a suitable balance between performance and affordability, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious sailors.

Tartan 30 has enough space for living aboard

Last but not least is the Tartan 30. This sturdy sailboat is known for its seakeeping abilities and high-quality construction. The Tartan 30 provides adequate space for living aboard while maintaining its performance capabilities. Finding a used Tartan 30 at a great price is an excellent opportunity to secure an affordable, comfortable liveaboard.

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