weekend sailboat for sale

• BOAT OF THE YEAR
• Newsletters
• Sailboat Reviews
• Boating Safety
• Sailing Totem
• Charter Resources
• Destinations
• Galley Recipes
• Living Aboard
• Sails and Rigging
• Maintenance
• Best Marine Electronics & Technology

20 Best Small Sailboats for the Weekender

• By Mark Pillsbury
• Updated: August 4, 2021

In order to go cruising, most of us require a sailboat with a head, a galley, and bunks. The boat, likely a 30-footer and more often a 40-footer, will have electronics for navigation and entertainment, refrigeration if the trip is longer than a coastal hop, an engine for light wind, and, depending on our appetites for food and fun, perhaps a genset to power our toys and appliances.

To go sailing , however, all we really need is a hull, mast, rudder, and sail. To experience the pure joy of sheeting in and scooting off across a lake, bay, or even the open ocean, there’s nothing better than a small sailboat – we’re talking sailboats under 25 feet. You can literally reach out and touch the water as it flows past. You instantly feel every puff of breeze and sense every change in trim.

Some of the boats in this list are new designs, others are time-tested models from small sailboat manufacturers, but every one is easy to rig, simple to sail, and looks like a whole lot of fun either for a solo outing on a breezy afternoon or to keep family and friends entertained throughout your entire sailing season. This list is made up of all types of sailboats , and if you’re looking for a list of some of the best small sailboats for beginners, you’ll find exactly that here.

Any one of these popular boats could be labeled as a trailerable sailboat, daysailer, or even a weekender sailboat. And while most would be labeled as a one or two person sailboat, some could comfortably fit three or even four people.

Marblehead 22 Daysailer

If you have an eye for elegant lines and your heart goes pitter-patter over just the right amount of overhang beneath a counter transom, the Marblehead 22 daysailer, designed by Doug Zurn and built by Samoset Boatworks in Boothbay, Maine, will definitely raise your pulse. Traditional-looking above the waterline and modern beneath, the cold-molded hull sports a deep bulb keel and a Hall Spars carbon-fiber mast with a wishbone rig and square-top main. The 11-foot-9-inch cockpit can seat a crowd, and a small cuddy forward will let you stow your friends’ gear for the day. samosetboatworks.com

Catalina 22 Sport

Many a harbor plays host to an active fleet of Catalina 22s, one of the most popular small sailboats over the years, given its basic amenities and retractable keel, which allows it to be easily trailered. Recently, the company introduced the Catalina 22 Sport, an updated design that can compete with the older 22s. The boat features a retractable lead keel; a cabin that can sleep four, with a forward hatch for ventilation; and a fractional rig with a mainsail and a roller-furling jib. Lifelines, a swim ladder, and an engine are options, as are cloth cushions; vinyl cushions are standard. The large cockpit will seat a crowd or let a mom-and-pop crew stretch out and enjoy their sail. It’s clear why the Catalina 22 is one of the best sailboats under 25 feet. catalinayachts.com

With its large, open-transom cockpit and sloop rig, the Hunter 22 makes a comfortable daysailer for family and friends. But with its cuddy cabin, twin bunks, optional electrical system, opening screened ports, and portable toilet, a parent and child or a couple could comfortably slip away for an overnight or weekend. Add in the optional performance package, which includes an asymmetric spinnaker, a pole, and a mainsheet traveler, and you could be off to the races. The boat features a laminated fiberglass hull and deck, molded-in nonskid, and a hydraulic lifting centerboard. Mount a small outboard on the stern bracket, and you’re set to go. marlow-hunter.com

Not sure whether you want to race, cruise or just go out for an afternoon sail? Since 1958, sailors have been having a ball aboard the Uffa Fox/George O’Day-designed Daysailer. Fox, who in the 1950s was on the cutting edge of planning-dinghy design, collaborated with Fall River, Massachusetts boatbuilder O’Day Corp. to build the 16-foot Daysailer, a boat that features a slippery hull and a small cuddy cabin that covers the boat roughly from the mast forward. Thousands of Daysailers were built by various builders, and they can be found used for quite affordable prices. There are active racing fleets around the US, and new Daysailers are still in production today, built by Cape Cod Ship Building. capecodshipbuilding.com

BayRaider from Swallow Boats

Easy to rig and trailer, the BayRaider from England’s Swallow Yachts is a relative newcomer to the small-boat market in the United States. Nearly all of its 19 feet 9 inches is open cockpit, though a spray hood can be added to keep the forward sections dry. The BayRaider is ketch-rigged with a gunter-style mainmast. The topmast and mizzen are both carbon-fiber, which is an option for the mainmast as well. The BayRaider can be sailed with a dry hull in lighter conditions or with 300 pounds of water ballast to increase its stability. With the centerboard and hinged rudder raised, the boat can maneuver in even the thinnest water.

$28,900, (904) 234-8779, swallowyachts.com

Big fun can come in small packages, especially if your vessel of choice happens to be the 12 ½-foot Beetle Cat. Designed by John Beetle and first built in 1921, the wooden shallow draft sailboat is still in production today in Wareham, Massachusetts at the Beetle Boat Shop. With a draft of just 2 feet, the boat is well-suited for shallow bays, but equally at home in open coastal waters. The single gaff-rigged sail provides plenty of power in light air and can be quickly reefed down to handle a blow. In a word, sailing a Beetle Cat is fun. beetlecat.com

West Wight Potter P 19

With berths for four and a workable galley featuring a cooler, a sink, and a stove, West Wight Potter has packed a lot into its 19-foot-long P 19. First launched in 1971, this is a line of boats that’s attracted a true following among trailer-sailors. The P 19′s fully retractable keel means that you can pull up just about anywhere and go exploring. Closed-cell foam fore and aft makes the boat unsinkable, and thanks to its hard chine, the boat is reportedly quite stable under way. westwightpotter.com

NorseBoat 17.5

Designed for rowing and sailing (a motor mount is optional), the Canadian-built NorseBoat 17.5—one of which was spotted by a CW editor making its way through the Northwest Passage with a two-man crew—features an open cockpit, a carbon-fiber mast, and a curved-gaff rig, with an optional furling headsail set on a sprit. The lapstrake hull is fiberglass; the interior is ply and epoxy. The boat comes standard with two rowing stations and one set of 9-foot oars. The boat is designed with positive flotation and offers good load-carrying capacity, which you could put to use if you added the available canvas work and camping tent. NorseBoats offers a smaller sibling, the 12.5, as well; both are available in kit form.

$19,000, (902) 659-2790, norseboat.com

Montgomery 17

Billed as a trailerable pocket cruiser, the Montgomery 17 is a stout-looking sloop designed by Lyle Hess and built out of fiberglass in Ontario, California, by Montgomery Boats. With a keel and centerboard, the boat draws just under 2 feet with the board up and can be easily beached when you’re gunkholing. In the cuddy cabin you’ll find sitting headroom, a pair of bunks, a portable toilet, optional shore and DC power, and an impressive amount of storage space. The deck-stepped mast can be easily raised using a four-part tackle. The builder reports taking his own boat on trips across the Golfo de California and on visits to California’s coastal islands. Montgomery makes 15-foot and 23-foot models, as well. If you’re in search of a small sailboat with a cabin, the Montgomery 17 has to be on your wish list.

With long overhangs and shiny brightwork, the CW Hood 32 is on the larger end of the daysailer spectrum. Designers Chris Hood and Ben Stoddard made a conscious decision to forego a cabin and head in favor of an open cockpit big enough to bring 4 or 5 friends or family out for an afternoon on the water. The CW Hood 32 is sleek and graceful through the water and quick enough to do some racing, but keeps things simple with a self-tacking jib and controls that can be lead back to a single-handed skipper. A top-furling asymmetrical, electric sail drive and Torqeedo outboard are all optional. The CW Hood 32 makes for a great small family sailboat.  cwhoodyachts.com

Sun Cat from Com-Pac

Shallow U.S. East Coast bays and rock-strewn coasts have long been graced by cat boats, whose large, gaff-rigged mainsails proved simple and powerful both on the wind and, better yet, when reaching and running. The 17-foot-4-inch Sun Cat, built by Com-Pac Yachts, updates the classic wooden cat with its fiberglass hull and deck and the easy-to-step Mastender Rigging System, which incorporates a hinged tabernacle to make stepping the mast a one-person job. If you want a personal sailboat ideal for solo sailing, the Sun Can is a great choice. Belowdecks, the twin 6-foot-5-inch berths and many other features and amenities make this cat a willing weekender.

$19,800, (727) 443-4408, com-pacyachts.com

Catalina 16.5

The Catalina 16.5 sits right in the middle of Catalina Yachts’ line of small sailboats, which range from the 12.5 to the 22 Capri and Sport, and it comes in both an easy-to-trailer centerboard model and a shoal-draft fixed-keel configuration. With the fiberglass board up, the 17-foot-2-inch boat draws just 5 inches of water; with the board down, the 4-foot-5-inch draft suggests good windward performance. Hull and deck are hand-laminated fiberglass. The roomy cockpit is self-bailing, and the bow harbors a good-sized storage area with a waterproof hatch. catalinayachts.com

No roundup of best small sailboats (trailerable and fun too) would be complete without a mention of the venerable Hobie 16, which made its debut in Southern California way back in 1969. The company has introduced many other multihulls since, but more than 100,000 of the 16s have been launched, a remarkable figure. The Hobie’s asymmetric fiberglass-and-foam hulls eliminate the need for daggerboards, and with its kick-up rudders, the 16 can be sailed right up to the beach. Its large trampoline offers lots of space to move about or a good place to plant one’s feet when hanging off the double trapezes with a hull flying. The boat comes with a main and a jib; a spinnaker, douse kit, trailer, and beach dolly are optional features. hobiecat.com

Novice sailors or old salts looking for simplicity could both enjoy sailing the Hunter 15. With a fiberglass hull and deck and foam flotation, the boat is sturdily built. The ample freeboard and wide beam provide stability under way, and the heavy-duty rubrail and kick-up rudder mean that you won’t have to worry when the dock looms or the going grows shallow. Both the 15 and its slightly larger 18-foot sibling come standard with roller-furling jibs.

$6,900/$9,500 (boat-show prices for the 15 and 18 includes trailers), (386) 462-3077, marlow-hunter.com

Super Snark

Under various owners, the Snark brand of sailboats, now built by Meyers Boat Co., has been around since the early 1970s. The Super Snark, at 11 feet, is a simple, easily car-topped daysailer that’s fit out with a lateen rig and sail. Billed as unsinkable, the five boats in the company’s line are built with E.P.S. foam, with the external hull and deck vacuum-formed to the core using an A.B.S. polymer. The Super Snark weighs in at 50 pounds, and with a payload capacity of 310 pounds, the boat can carry two.

$970, (800) 247-6275, meyersboat.com

Norseboat 21.5

Built in Canada, the NorseBoat 21.5 is a rugged looking craft that comes in a couple of configurations: one with an open cockpit and small doghouse, and another with a smaller cockpit and cabin that houses a double berth for two adults and optional quarter berths for the kids. Both carry NorseBoat’s distinctive looking carbon fiber gaff-rigged mast with main and jib (a sprit-set drifter is optional), and come with a ballasted stub keel and centerboard. Because of its lightweight design, the boat can be rowed and is easily trailered.

$36,000 (starting), 902-659-2790, norseboat.com

Flying Scot

Talk about time-tested, the 19-foot Flying Scot has been in production since 1957 and remains a popular design today. Sloop rigged, with a conventional spinnaker for downwind work, the boat is an easily sailed family boat as well as a competitive racer, with over 130 racing fleets across the U.S. Its roomy cockpit can seat six to eight, though the boat is often sailed by a pair or solo. Hull and deck are a fiberglass and balsa core sandwich. With the centerboard up, the boat draws only eight inches. Though intended to be a daysailer, owners have rigged boom tents and berths for overnight trips, and one adventurous Scot sailor cruised his along inland waterways from Philadelphia to New Orleans.

Known primarily for its line of racing dinghys, RS Sailing also builds the 16-foot, 4-inch Venture, which it describes as a cruising and training dinghy. The Venture features a large, self-draining cockpit that will accommodate a family or pack of kids. A furling jib and mainsail with slab reefing come standard with the boat; a gennaker and trapeze kit are options, as is an outboard motor mount and transom swim ladder. The deck and hull are laid up in a fiberglass and Coremat sandwich. The Venture’s designed to be both a good performer under sail, but also stable, making it a good boat for those learning the sport.

$14,900, 203-259-7808, rssailing.com

Topper makes a range of mono- and multihull rotomolded boats, but the model that caught one editor’s eye at Strictly Sail Chicago was the Topaz Taz. At 9 feet, 8 inches LOA and weighing in at 88 pounds, the Taz is not going to take the whole crowd out for the day. But, with the optional mainsail and jib package (main alone is for a single child), the Taz can carry two or three kids or an adult and one child, and would make a fun escape pod when tied behind the big boat and towed to some scenic harbor. The hull features Topper’s Trilam construction, a plastic and foam sandwich that creates a boat that’s stiff, light, and durable, and shouldn’t mind being dragged up on the beach when it’s time for a break.

$2,900 (includes main and jib), 410-286-1960, topazsailboats.com

WindRider WRTango

WRTango, a fast, sturdy, 10-foot trimaran that’s easy to sail, is the newest portable craft from WindRider International. It joins a line that includes the WR16 and WR17 trimarans. The Tango features forward-facing seating, foot-pedal steering, and a low center of gravity that mimics the sensation of sitting in a kayak. It weighs 125 pounds (including the outriggers and carbon-fiber mast), is extremely stable, and has single-sheet sail control. The six-inch draft and kick-up rudder make it great for beaching, while the hull and outriggers are made of rotomolded polyethylene, so it can withstand running into docks and being dragged over rocks.

$3,000, 612-338-2170, windrider.com

• More: 21 - 30 ft , Boat Gallery , day sailing , dinghy , Sailboat Reviews , Sailboats , under 20 ft
• More Sailboats

Balance 442 “Lasai” Set to Debut

Sailboat Review: Tartan 455

Meet the Bali 5.8

Celebrating a Classic

Kirsten Neuschäfer Receives CCA Blue Water Medal

2024 Regata del Sol al Sol Registration Closing Soon

US Sailing Honors Bob Johnstone

Bitter End Expands Watersports Program

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Email Newsletters
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

Featured Sailboat:

9 Best Trailerable Sailboats

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

Sailing is an excellent activity for the weekends, especially in remote mountain lakes or sheltered waterways. The United States is full of small isolated waterways, inland lakes, and rivers—which make the perfect environment for an adventure in a small sailboat .

Unfortunately, many people are put off by the idea of owning a sailboat due to the associated docking and maintenance fees. Weekend sailors often don’t want to pay for a long-term slip, and there’s no question that the added expense can be a pain.

Luckily, you don’t have to permanently dock a sailboat to enjoy this great pastime.

Instead of docking a large boat, you can purchase a small trailerable sailboat. A trailerable sailboat is a perfect option for part-time sailors and people with busy lives. Trailer sailors are some of the most popular boats in the country, and they’re not limited to light winds and calm seas. Many trailerable sailboats have made some impressive passages both offshore and coastal. In this article, we’ll go over some of the top new and used trailerable sailboats that you can purchase today. 

Table of contents

Best Trailerable Sailboats

1) west wight potter 15.

{{boat-info="/boats/west-wight-potter-15"}}

The West Wight Potter 15 is perhaps one of the most capable 15-foot sailboats around. This neat little vessel is as seaworthy as it is easy to handle, and it’s a great choice for all kinds of cruising adventures.

The West Wight Potter 15 is a 15-foot sloop with an aluminum mast and tiller. This tiny boat also features a small cabin, which has ideal sleeping accommodations for a cruising couple. The cabin itself is spartan compared to its larger relatives, but it’s the perfect design for the minimalist cruiser.

This small sailboat is easily trailerable and can be stored in some garages with relative ease. The West Wight Potter 15 is ideal for inland and coastal waters and sets up (and takes down) fast with minimal fuss. Don’t let the small design fool you—this craft is surprisingly seaworthy.

The West Wight Potter 15 has an impressive cruising record, including a trip from England to Sweden in the brutal North Atlantic. The West Wight Potter 15 can be purchased new from International Marine, and thousands of craft are in circulation already.

2) West Wight Potter 19

{{boat-info="/boats/west-wight-potter-19"}}

We thought it fitting to include the Potter 15’s big brother, the West Wight Potter 19, on this list of the best trailerable sailboats . West Wight Potter boats are well known for their robust design and easy handling, and the Potter 19 is no exception.

The West Wight Potter 19 boasts the seaworthiness and ease-of-handling offered by its little brother, with the benefit of greater sailing comfort and cabin accommodations. This 19-foot sailboat is constructed of fiberglass. The hull contains a liberal amount of positive flotation, which makes the boat practically unsinkable.

The cabin features generous accommodations for a boat of its size, featuring space for a vee-berth, a small stove, a sink, and a portable head. Additionally, the West Wight Potter 19’s cabin can be wired for electricity from the factory, further increasing the level of comfort in this capable trailer sailor.

Like its smaller alternative, the West Wight Potter 19 has a history of some impressive cruises. An individual sailed this craft thousands of nautical miles from California to Hawaii —a single-handed voyage usually reserved for boats twice its size.

That’s not to say that the Potter 19 is a purpose-built long-haul sailboat. This design is ideal for larger lakes, rivers, and coastal cruising. However, the design has demonstrated toughness and seaworthiness rarely found in smaller boats.

The Potter 19, like the Potter 15, is a centerboard craft. This sailboat is available new from International Marine and offers a wide range of options packages and upgrades.

3) Newport 27

{{boat-info="/boats/capital-yachts-newport-27"}}

The Newport 27 is a massive step-up in size and amenities compared to the other boats on this list so far. This comfortable trailerable sailboat originated in 1971—at the height of the fiberglass boat boom. The Newport 27 measures 27-feet in length and feature a flush-deck design similar to the famous Cal 20.

This sailboat, despite its trailerable size and weight, features surprisingly good handling characteristics and generous accommodations. A full 6-feet of standing headroom is available in the cabin, making this boat exceedingly comfortable for longer journeys.

This sailboat is an excellent choice for the trailer sailing sailor who dreams of longer journeys but spends much of the time just hopping around local ports.

Despite its modest size and weight, the design of this small sailboat is proven. Many people sail them long distances and enjoy the quick handling characteristics of its design.

The Newport 27 is a true pocket cruiser, if not slightly larger than most. The Newport 27 isn’t produced anymore, but there is a healthy second-hand market for the boat.

4) Cape Dory 28

{{boat-info="/boats/cape-dory-28"}}

The Cape Dory 28 is a legendary Carl Alberg design known for its commodious living spaces and well-rounded performance both offshore and inland. This spacious little cruiser has the styling and capability of many larger boats, featuring traditional styling and generous amounts of varnished teak and brass. This cozy boat is a great choice for traditionalist sailors.

The Cape Dory 28 features a proven, simple, and robust rig, and it functions gracefully in a variety of conditions. While a 28’ sailboat is hardly considered trailerable by many, it can certainly be hauled-out and transported with relative ease. This is the kind of sailboat that’s just as happy in the boatyard or a permanent mooring.

The Cape Dory 28 offers attractive features for long-haul voyages, plus ease-of-handling and quickness that is necessary for tighter coastal waters. The Cape Dory 28 is ideal for salt-water cruising, though it’s a bit large for small lakes and narrow rivers.

This is certainly not a shoal-draft cruiser—with a draft of 4-feet, it's primarily at home in the water. 

5) Islander 24

{{boat-info="/boats/islander-24"}}

The Islander 24 is a common fiberglass classic that makes an ideal trailer sailing setup. This 24-foot fiberglass boat features a robust design and ease-of-maintenance rarely found on boats with similar capabilities.

The design has been around for over 40 years, and it’s served weekender and cruising sailor alike. The Islander 24 is a well-rounded cruising vessel with a spacious cabin for two (or more). The cabin features a forward vee berth, space for a head, and tables for a sink, stove, or navigation.

The boat is single-handed with ease, and the rig is simple enough to be stowed without too much hassle. The Islander 24 is a relatively common trailer sailor, though many owners leave it in the water.

A vessel of this size is ideal for cruising coastal waters, though some sailors have attempted longer voyages in this vessel. The Islander 24 is available on the used market all over the country. 

6) Contessa 26

{{boat-info="/boats/contessa-26"}}

The Contessa 26 is an excellent classic trailerable sailboat. Don’t let its modest size fool you—this cruising craft has a long-standing reputation for seaworthiness. The Contessa 26 is a fiberglass boat that debuted in 1965 and has since earned a bit of a cult following.

These rather innocuous looking crafts are as fun and capable as they are easy to handle. The boat features a spacious cabin, comfortable cockpit, and plenty of available cruising upgrades. The rig is well-built and resembles the rig of a much larger boat.

The Contessa 26 is an ideal pocket cruising setup for a moderately experienced sailor. The vessel has a narrow beam, which contributes to heeling. The boat is known to heel rather violently, but it stiffens up shortly after and becomes a joy to sail.

A boat like this knows its capabilities and is sure to impress anyone. The Contessa 26 is a safe, hardy, and comfortable cruising boat for minimalists, and one of the best tailorable sailboats in the mid to large-size category.

This boat is a little harder to come by than many other vessels on this list, as around 300 were built. However, if you’re lucky enough to locate one on the used market, it’s definitely worth considering. Contessa built a fine boat, and the Contessa 26 meets the standard with confidence.

7) Hunter 27 

{{boat-info="/boats/hunter-27"}}

If you’ve made it this far down the list, you’re probably surprised that the Hunter 27 hasn’t come up yet. This famous little boat has quite a reputation and happens to be one of the most popular modern trailerable cruisers available.

The Hunter 27 isn’t a traditionalist’s dream, but it offers the modern amenities and capabilities you’d expect from Hunter. This capable little sailboat has the handling characteristics of a truly seaworthy boat and manages well in all kinds of conditions.

The Hunter 27 has a reputation for amazing durability, and the design is sound from keel to masthead. Now, let’s get into some of the features that make the Hunter 27 a very attractive option. The Hunter 27 is a purpose-built small cruising vessel, but the accommodations appear to be a shrunken version of a boat 10 feet longer.

Down below, the Hunter 27 features a full galley, head, a full standing shower, berths, and generous storage space. The Hunter 27 is a truly livable trailer sailor, featuring accommodations that make it suitable for extended cruising or even living aboard. The salon features over 6 feet of standing headroom, with plenty of seating and counter space throughout.

The rig is sturdy and easy to handle. And remember, the Hunter 27 is still a trailer sailor. The boat features a shoal draft of under 4-feet and a displacement of less than 8,000 pounds. The Hunter 27 is available used, and this boat is still produced and available brand-new by Marlow-Hunter. 

{{boat-info="/boats/cal-20"}}

How could we forget the little Cal 20? We didn’t—and it’s certainly worth including the famous Trans-Pac underdog on this list. The Cal 20 is reminiscent of the glory days of fiberglass sailing in the 1960s and 1970s.

This flush-deck racer is a fantastic trailer cruiser for anyone wanting big-boat handling and speed in a compact package. The accommodations on this boat leave something to be desired, but many people find them cozy and acceptable.

The cabin features sitting headroom and a berth, along with small tables for a stove or sink. The Cal 20 has a history of impressive voyages and was a popular choice for daring sailors on long offshore journeys. However, the boat is designed to be quick, safe, and fun on inland passages and coastal cruises.

The Cal 20 is common on the used market and makes a great entry-level cabin sailboat. The Cal 20 features an enormous cockpit, making it ideal for a day on the bay with friends or family.

The boat is easy to handle, and upgrades abound. The Cal 20 is a great little sailboat with a fun history and a massive fan base. This stout little yacht makes an excellent weekender too, and the cabin makes overnighting comfortable. 

9) Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20

{{boat-info="/boats/pacific-seacraft-flicka-20"}}

One of the most legendary small trailerable cruisers is the full-keel Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20. A limited number of these boats were produced by Pacific Seacraft during the 20th century, and they have a reputation for incredible seaworthiness and long-range voyaging.

These sailboats have the hull shape of boats twice their size, with a long, deep, full keel running the length of the hull. The boat can handle some serious offshore cruising and features the capabilities of other full-keel sailboats.

The Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 is an amazing find on the used market, as owners tend to cling to them due to their incredible characteristics. There aren’t many trailerable offshore cruisers available, which is because it’s not easy to design a small boat with offshore capabilities.

However, Pacific Seacraft did just that and built one incredible trailer sailor. This vessel is not really designed for shallow lakes and rivers.

The Flicka 20 is known to be a truly seaworthy ocean-going sailboat, which happens to be small enough to fit on an average-sized boat trailer.

Wherever you choose to sail, a trailerable sailboat is often a great choice. The boats listed here are by no means the only options—in fact, there are dozens of excellent trailerable sailboat models on the market. If you enjoy sailing but want to avoid the hassle of a permanent mooring, or if you travel to sail, a trailer sailor is a great choice.

Many sailors pick trailerable sailboats to sail multiple oceans. Many people would agree that it’s a lot more practical to haul your boat from the Pacific to the Atlantic, especially when the alternative option is the Panama Canal .

A trailerable sailboat can give you access to a multitude of sailing adventures—the lake one weekend, the coast the next, and perhaps an offshore voyage or island hopping in the delta.

And with this list of the best trailerable sailboats, you can find the boat that fits your needs (and your budget) and hit the water in no time.

Related Articles

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.

by this author

Best Sailboats

Most Recent

What Does "Sailing By The Lee" Mean?

October 3, 2023

The Best Sailing Schools And Programs: Reviews & Ratings

September 26, 2023

Important Legal Info

Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.

Similar Posts

Affordable Sailboats You Can Build at Home

September 13, 2023

Best Small Sailboats With Standing Headroom

Best Bluewater Sailboats Under $50K

Popular posts.

Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats

Can a Novice Sail Around the World?

Elizabeth O'Malley

June 15, 2022

4 Best Electric Outboard Motors

How Long Did It Take The Vikings To Sail To England?

10 Best Sailboat Brands (And Why)

December 20, 2023

7 Best Places To Liveaboard A Sailboat

Get the best sailing content.

Top Rated Posts

Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. (866) 342-SAIL

© 2024 Life of Sailing Email: [email protected] Address: 11816 Inwood Rd #3024 Dallas, TX 75244 Disclaimer Privacy Policy

Sailboats For Sale

29 listings found.

36 Hunter Vision 1993

Hobie Mirage Tandem Island

• Florida , United States

1972 Luders 36 by Cheoy Lee

Tartan 10 Snowballs Chance

• Connecticut

1975 Bristol 32 Sloop, Keel/CB by Ted Hood (Am’s Cup)

• Massachusetts

Used Yamaha 200 HP 4-Stroke Outboard Motor Engine

• United States

Used Yamaha 115 HP 4-Stroke Outboard Motor Engine

33ft Blue Water Sailboat

Freshwater Only – 1989 Hunter 33.5 Sloop-Rigged Cruiser, Shoal Wing Keel

F&C 44′ Ketch

Reeds Cub Scow – SOLD

Melges C Scow

470 sailboat and trailer

• Pennsylvania

1978 Hunter 30 Cheurbini

Sold – Shallow Draft Cat Ketch 24 Cruiser

1981 Pearson Flyer

Catalina 27 for sale

Hunter 44 DS perfect to live aboard!

• Ohio , United States

Westerly 33

2023 BENETEAU First 24

2023 BENETEAU First 27

2023 BENETEAU First 36

2023 BENETEAU First 44

1978 Mega (C&C) 30

Browse sailboats for sale on sailtrader.

SailTrader is dedicated to providing sailors a marketplace to easily buy and sell sailboats and sails. We are dedicated to offering only sailboats for sale to make it easy to find the right sailboat your looking for.

Find Sailboats For Sale From Anywhere Nationwide

SailTrader is is committed to offering sailboats for sale both locally and nationally. No matter what state your located in, there’s sailboats for sale near you. Popular states for buying and selling sailboats are: Alabama , Alaska , Arizona , Arkansas , California , Colorado , Connecticut , Delaware , Florida , Georgia , Hawaii , Idaho , Illinois , Indiana , Iowa , Kansas , Kentucky , Louisiana , Maine , Maryland , Massachusetts , Michigan , Minnesota , Mississippi , Missouri , Montana , Nebraska , Nevada , New Hampshire , New Jersey , New Mexico , New York , North Carolina , North Dakota , Ohio , Oklahoma , Oregon , Pennsylvania , Rhode Island , South Carolina , South Dakota , Tennessee , Texas , Utah , Vermont , Virginia , Washington , West Virginia , Wisconsin and Wyoming .

• New Sailboats

Find your next new sailboat for sale on SailTrader. Browse a variety of different types of sailboats: keelboats, dinghy’s, catamarans, trimarans and more. Not only will you fins a range of new types of sailboats but you’ll also see a range of brands to choose from like Catalina, Hunter, Beneteau, Jeanneau, Hinckley, J-Boats, Swan and more.

Used Sailboats For Sale

If you’re looking for used sailboats for sale then theirs’s no better place to look then SailTrader. SailTrader is the fastest growing website specifically designed for sailboats. We make it easy to browse through used sailboats for sale to find the right one you’re looking for.

• Cruising Sailboats

Cruising sailboats are the most popular type of sailboat for sale. Today’s sailboat manufacturers offer a range of deck and interior variations giving sailors a lot of options to choose from. Browse through cruising sailboats for sale from: Catalina, Beneteau, Hunter, Jeanneau, Hanse, Custom, Pearson, Morgan, Tartan, Bavaria, Hallberg-Rassy, Grand Soleil and more.

• Racing Sailboats

SailTrader is a reliable source for finding racing sailboats for sale. From boats design just for racing to find a club racer/cruiser, SailTrader has you covered. 

Sell Your Sailboat

SailTrader makes it easy to sell your sailboat online. In a few simple steps, you can list your sailboat on the top marketplace dedicated only to sailing. 

The Sailor’s Marketplace for Sailboats and Sails.

• Used Sailboats

Sell Your Sails

Sails for sail, sail manufacturers.

• North Sails
• Quantum Sails
• Doyle Sails
• UK Sailmakers

Sailing Reviews

• Sailing Line
• Safety Equipment
• Sailing Accesories

As an Amazon Associate SailTrader earns from qualifying purchases.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience possible. 

Welcome to the Wonderful World of Weekenders!

The Weekender has been our most popular boat design for many years, and we understand why: It has a Classic Style, based loosely on the amazginly pretty Friendship Sloops of New England, and the Weekender is a perfect size for "simply messing about in boats"! It's small enough to be easy to handle, to build, and to store, yet it's still roomy enough to stay overnight in (or just take a nap on a nice afternoon in your driveway, as we've done more than a few times!)

Over Forty Years ago we first brought out this design amnd it has remained one of our most popular boats — And we quite agree with our builders: It's our favorite, too!

Read On to learn more about this Amazing Boat!

NOW AVAILABLE AS DIGITAL PLANS and VIDEO!!

For many years people have been asking us to bring out a digital version of the Weekender plans for download. Well, the Weekender plans have just been completely gone through (updated drawings, new Plans Addenda for improvements, and new additions to the text!) and we are now offering Immediate Digital Download of the plans!

AND...We Now Have the whole of the 3 1/2-hour Weekender Home Boatbuilding Course available as downloadable or streaming video!

Just as the plans needed to move to a more modern format, so too did the Weekender Boatbuilding Video. We shifted forward from VHS tapes to DVDs, and now on to online video files which you can stream or download to a tablet or laptop for use in the workshop!

Order the Weekender Plans, the Video Series, or BOTH below, and scroll down this page to learn LOTS more about the Weekender!

The Weekender in Small Boats Magazine!

Read the article they published about our weekender design.

Click Here to go to the Pocket Yacht Model Page.

Click Here for more information.

Click Here to start exploring the photo galleries!

Copyright 2024 Stevenson Projects LLC

• Sign In or Register
• Boats for Sale
• Research Boats
• Sell a Boat
• Search Alerts
• My Listings
• Account Settings
• Dealer Advertising
• Trailerable Sailboats

Trailerable Sailboats Boats for sale

2015 Catalina 22 Sport

Oriental, North Carolina

Make Catalina

Model 22 Sport

Category Sailboats

Posted Over 1 Month

2015 Catalina 22 Sport The Catalina 22 Sport is undoubtedly the all-time-best trailerable 22' sailboat.  With excellent sailing characteristics, shallow draft, and a comfortable interior the Catalina 22 is the right choice.  We have in stock a new 22 Sport including road ready galvanized trailer with the most important factory options already installed.  Call today to outfit this boat to suit your needs.

1989 Catalina Wing Keel

Mobile, Alabama

Model Wing Keel

1989 Catalina Wing Keel In 1980, Sail Magazine names the Catalina 22 "trailerable boat of the decade" and hull #10,000 was completed. In 1990 hull #15,000 is done. This boat is a fun weekender or great for day sailing. She comes with a single axel trailer and a 2009 6 HP Tohatsu.

1980 White Hall 16' Sailing Boat

Sister Bay, Wisconsin

Make White Hall

Model 16' Sailing Boat

1980 White Hall 16' Sailing Boat This 16 foot B & S Whitehall is a sailing and rowing boat . Based on the original Whitehall design with a  fiberglass hull and finished in mahogany. Striking in both beauty and function she's easily trailerable and can be single handedly sailed or rowed.

2007 Hunter 25

Traverse City, Michigan

Make Hunter

2007 Hunter 25 This is a one owner truly "Turn Key" Hunter 25. "Drifter" has been used only 2 weeks per year and stored on the trailer under its custom full winter cover the rest of the time until 2014. She has been in a seasonal slip the last two seasons. She is powered by a Nissan 9.8 four stroke motor with an EZ. Steer linkage to the rudder for easy steering in tight quarters.  One of the largest trailerable models being built by Hunter Marine, and benefits from her fixed shoal keel design. With 35% of the displacement as keel ballast, the stability is excellent. This allows you to carry a generous sail plan for performance while having the confident feeling of a stable platform. The large cockpit will accommodate your family and friends to enjoy the spirit of sailing in a comfortable way.   She features a spacious cabin with a V-berth, aft cabin, enclosed head, sink, and cabinets for storage.  Request Information Call Now

2001 Crowther Osborn 42 Super Shockwave

Clearwater, Florida

Make Crowther

Model Osborn 42 Super Shockwave

2001 Crowther Osborn 42 Super Shockwave Strong, Light, and FAST"Green Flash" Is Extraordinary  The Osborn 42 was a collaborative project between Bruce Osborne and Dave Calvert (Calvert Sail-loft).  Her hulls are based on the fast and proven Super Shockwave 42 by legendary multihull designer Lock Crowther of Australia.   Morelli and Melvin (Playstation maxi cat designers) did the structural engineering, and the underwater foils were designed by Bill Roberts (designer of the Supercat and RC27 and 30). Osborn and Calvert set out to build a cat that could be ultra competitive in open water racing, and cruised in relative comfort.  The builders utilized carbon fiber, epoxy and Corecell construction to make her incredibly light and strong, weighing in around 7,500 lbs.  A 16:1 hull fineness ratio makes her incredibly fast (popular trailerable trimarans have a 8:1 ratio, and are considered fast).  With her high-tech construction, deep daggerboards and spade rudders, this cat will outpoint any other cat of similar size to weather. She raced the Miami to Nassau race in '05 and '06, winning both in corrected time and first to finish. Her previous owner reports her top speed was 27 knots in race mode.   She now cruises between 8-12 knots in her current configuration.  Her current owner of the past 7 years has taken the boat one step further and has customized her into a true blue water fast cruiser.  Green flash safely cruised from the Gulf Coast of FL, through the South Pacific and is now located in Hawaii.  Green flash is a one of a kind catamaran that will appeal to go-fast sailors that prefer boat speed over extravagant interiors.  Her owner is currently anchored in Molokai, HI.  Make an appointment to see her in Hawaii, before her owner makes his next jump to New Zealand.  Fresh Bottom paint June 2015!

1988 Hunter 23

Muskegon, Michigan

1988 Hunter 23 This freshwater only Hunter 23 is well above average in overall condition and well above any other Hunter 23 that you will find. Extremely well maintained. This is a Hunter 23 that you can take pride in owning. Merri-Lee is a good performer and will give you hours and hours of enjoyable sailing.Many sailors started with the Hunter 23 and all will tell you that the boat delivered everything they needed in a trailerable, manageable boat. The shallow wing keel not only allows you to get her on the trailer easily, but allows the boat to sail upwind nicely and even do that in less than 3 feet of water. Great for gunk holing. Come and see Merri-Lee today!

1985 Catalina 22 Sloop

Charleston, South Carolina

Model 22 Sloop

1985 Catalina 22 Sloop   “CURRENT PRICE” IS A GUIDE.  ALL OFFERS RESPECTFULLY CONSIDERED.   General Description The Catalina 22 is a wonderful, trailerable sail boat for solo sailing. The swing keel can get you into shallow water, while still providing superb stability and sailability. Actual Condition The boat is reported to have a crack in the hull, just forward of the keel. The boat and trailer show well, and appear to be in good condition. * We highly recommend that you inspect the vessel before bidding. EquipmentThis sale includes a Magic Tilt  Single-Axle Bunk Galvanized Trailer.Engines Please read Motors and Machinery Disclaimer. Motors and Machinery DisclaimerNo statement of condition can be made regarding motors, engines or machinery, whatsoever. A photo may appear of the engine compartment and machinery, but it is entirely the buyers responsibility to inspect and determine their actual condition. * On occasion we receive unverified information regarding mechanical condition. MD 9210 CF LAM

2003 Precision 23

Indianapolis, Indiana

Make Precision

2003 Precision 23 With today's medium-size family cars, the Precision 23 might well be termed a "maxi-trailerable." It far outstrips existing boats in terms of usable space, both on deck and below, with bulkheads intentionally trimmed back to avoid subdividing the visual space. The Precision 23 hull represents a very careful refinement of the basic form that has proven so successful in all of Precision's trailerable cruisers, featuring "racer sharp" waterline entry, substantial flare in the topside forward, and powerful quarters that taper to a shapely and relatively small transom. This combination of features provides a reassuring margin of both reserve buoyancy forward and "knockdown stability." The well-proven keel-centerboard combination is the most practical solution for combining upwind efficiency with very shoal draft. The long, shallow keel, kick-up rudder, and non-corroding fiberglass centerboard of the P-23 are all essential to her remarkable upwind performance. The fixed portion of the keel not only houses the board completely below the cabin sole, but it also allows the ballast to be placed as low as possible for increased stability. For trailerable boats, winged keels are more of an inexpensive expedient than a sensible design. In order to be effective with the very shallow draft required for trailering, the wings have to be so broad as to be awkward and prone to damage at the launching ramp, and very difficult to work free from the inevitable mud banks. The simple fractional rig of the P-23 features chainplates placed well inboard, another vital ingredient to her impressive speed to windward. Her mainsail is very large in order to provide good performance without the jib when desired. The cockpit is 7 feet 3 inches long, with coamings high enough to keep the crew securely inside, and the low and sleekly-styled cabin house provides excellent visibility forward. Special emphasis has gone into giving the P-23 her particularly bright and uncluttered interior. The typical intrusive mast compression post is replaced by a rugged overhead support beam. The especially large companionway, cabin windows and forward hatch contribute to the feeling of light and open space. The double berth forward is generous, and there are full-size berths aft which will accommodate three, although the expectation is that she will be cruised most often by a family, or perhaps two couples. A space for portable head is forward, and the fixed galley is aft, where it is convenient to both cabin and cockpit. Cushioned backrests amidships provide comfortable seating for up to six. Both seats and coamings are precisely angled for maximum comfort both upright and heeled, the result of very careful ergonomic design development. There is an anchor locker forward, a fuel tank storage bin to port, and a large cockpit locker with storage shelf to starboard.

1977 American Fiberglass Mini-Tonner, pocket cruiser

Chatham, Massachusetts

Make American Fiberglass

Model Mini-Tonner, Pocket Cruiser

1977 American Fiberglass Mini-Tonner, pocket cruiser COOL 17' shoal draft pocket cruiser. Garelick transom bracket.   Modified keel/centerboard design assures stability. Strongly built boat. Easy mast step with on-deck tabernacle. Cuddy cabin could sleep 4, with two pilot berths and forward Vee Cushion sin good order. Classic mini-cruiser. Main and jib in fine order. Good stainless standing rigging and fittings. Cabin lights, running lights. Battery. Boat pole, cockpit cushion, new sail cover. Flares, anchor and rode. Opening hatch. Framed dodger. Good cabin cushion upholstery. New porta pottie. Tiller steering with extension arm. Fenders. Cookware. Trailer included, and even has a spare tire. Manageable, trailerable little sailer. Priced to sell.  Call today.

2013 J Boats J/70

Corpus Christi, Texas

Make J Boats

2013 J Boats J/70 The J/70 introduces a new dimension of fun, fast sailing in a stable, easy to own boat. A natural evolution of its J pedigree, the J/70's 22-foot long waterline with high aspect, all carbon rig and deep, lifting bulb keel provides spirited performance and stability that feels like a much larger boat. Knifing through the water upwind with confidence and ease, the J/70 has that legendary “J” feel - light, controllable with a wide-groove to sail consistently fast. With an adjustable cascading backstay, one has total control over sail shape and dynamic rig tension across the full range of conditions, making it not only easy to change gears on the J/70, but faster and safer. Off the wind, J/70 will simply light-up the crew with a smile! Set the masthead asymmetrical spinnaker off the retractable carbon bowsprit, point the J/70 where you want with its deep, high-aspect rudder and the J/70 pops up on a plane and takes off in a moderate breeze. SAILOR FRIENDLY J/70 is all about making sailing inclusive, not exclusive. With its easily driven hull, large cockpit, and manageable three sail inventory, the J/70 is perfect for three adults, two couples, or four juniors. Sailing is about friends, it’s the joy of sharing the experience with others. When your family and friends can enjoy sailing in all weather, the return on investment will be high. TRAILERABLE- EASY TRANSPORT & LAUNCHING In today’s crowded harbors, it’s not always possible or economical to own a permanent mooring, marina slip or rent space in a dry lot with crane. J/70 offers a practical solution. Launch at the local boat ramp, raise the lightweight all carbon rig, lower the lifting bulb keel, hoist the sails and off you go on a sailing adventure in less than 30 minutes. The only limitations are how far you want to drive and willingness to camp in the great outdoors. Trailerable behind a family minivan or SUV, you can go anywhere.   Turn key everything you need to race or sail: VELOCITEK ProStart Starting, Tactical Compass and Speed Instrument Standard Stainless Steel running rigging Backstay flicker Shroud locks Keel Crane Companionway cover Complete set of boat covers, top, rudder, tiller, boom, mast covers and jib Life line pads Dock lines and fenders Sails: 2013 Quantum mainsail 2013 Quantum jib 2013 Quantum spinnaker 2015 UK mainsail (used four times) 2015 UK jib (used four times) 2014 UK spinnaker w/Graphic (used 3 times) Trailer with LED, tie downs

1995 Sam L Morse Falmouth Cutter

Bellevue, Washington

Make Sam L Morse

Model Falmouth Cutter

Category Cruiser Sailboats

Finesse, hull #33 of 39, is a rare opportunity. She is a Lyle Hess design and factory finished by Sam L Morse. The Falmouth Cutter is featured in John Vigor's "Twenty Small Sailboats to Take You Anywhere." She is trailerable (trailer not included), and she has a functional mast tabernacle for that purpose. Auxiliary propulsion by a Yanmar 1GM10 diesel engine, with 15 gal fuel tank. Converted to 330 A-hr house batteries with additional start battery. Propane stove with broiler, running fresh water, raw water foot pump, Lavac toilet with 15 gal plastic holding tank, Maritron electronics with NMEA 2000 network, Garmin VHF-300 radio, Garmin AIS-600 transponder, Technautics refrigerator/freezer, and many other accessories and equipment. An extensive equipment list is available. Finesse is extensively restored and outfitted, this bluewater cruiser is in excellent condition and ready to go. She should be seen to appreciate her. Some informative links on the Falmouth Cutter: http://www.colebrothers.com/articles9/falmouth.html http://bluewaterboats.org/falmouth-cutter-22/ https://skyaboveus.com/water-sports/The-Falmouth-22-Cutter-A-Surprisingly-Small-Cruising-Sailboat http://sailboatdata.com/viewrecord.asp?CLASS_ID=5545 http://www.capegeorgecutters.com/FC22/index.html http://www.sailingmates.com/fallmouth-cutter-review/ http://samlmorse.com/?a=falmouth_cutter https://hobosailorblog.wordpress.com/2016/01/20/falmouth-cutter-22/

1971 Morgan Sloop

Make Morgan

Model Sloop

Category Sloop Sailboats

1971 Morgan Sloop This is one of the early Charlie Morgan-designed and built heavy fiberglass boats that has stood the test of time. She will be the inexpensive home away from home, but she is on the water. She will go anywhere you care to go in the world. She's built just that tough. The shoal draft is a big plus in the North Channel or in the Bahamas. The International Harvester built engine has also stood the test of time and is ready to do a lot more. Solace 2 appears to be structurally sound on deck and hull. She will need some TLC on the exterior cosmetics, but overall in good condition for her age. She is also trailerable and therefore can be hauled to any location for a winter getaway or just traveling long distance in a short time period. This is a heavy duty triple axle trailer. Do it today!

2010 Macgregor 26M

Spring Lake, Michigan

Make Macgregor

2010 Macgregor 26M The Macgregor 26M is a trailerable coastal cruiser, powerboat, ski boat, party barge and floating home all wrapped into one hull. The obvious design compromises in a motorboat-sailboat hybrid have made many owners smile. The Macgregor 26 is a hybrid appealing primarily to trailersailors strapped for time and concerned about the rising cost of slip and mooring fees. At 26 feet it is simple to rig and sail, and just as easy to transport. Instead of chugging with the diesel at 4 knots, the Macgregor 26M speeds along at 22 mph. The boat was also able to explore quiet coves or nestle onto sandy beaches because its twin rudders and daggerboard that require only 12 inches water when retracted. This Macgregor 26M is a ONE OWNER BOAT. She was purchase NEW from the Factory in June of 2010. The boat is currently under the winter cover at the sellers home and is in need of a very good detailing. She is equipped with a lot of extra gear. Make arrangements for your personal showing today...........

1976 South Coast 22

Colonial Beach, Virginia

Make South Coast

1976 South Coast 22 The SC 22 was the most numerous of the South Coast boats with over 3,000 produced. Desiring to capitalize on the emerging trailerable cruising sailboat market, South Coast redesigned the Alberg SC 21, lengthening the boat, installing a bigger doghouse, and replacing the fin keel with a swing keel. The result was a fast, versatile and seaworthy trailerable pocket cruiser. At one time there was an active one-design racing fleet, with an annual regatta held in Shreveport, Louisiana. The 22 was reasonably fast, a little tender, and a lot of fun to sail. It will keep up with a Catalina 22, but a comparably equipped boat will probably cost less money. SC 22s can be found around the country. The 22s had a roomy cockpit. The layout on most boats featured a v-berth forward. Going aft on the starboard side there was a sink/counter/storage. Going aft on the port was a port-a-potty and a quarterberth which converted into a not-very-roomy table. Electronics and Navigation Gear: Hand Tiller Helm and full gauges Galley Equipment: Pressurized Cold Freshwater System with Water Tank and Stainless Sink.   Accommodations - Sleep Six Forward V Berth Dinette converts to berth, Single Quarter Berths. Electrical System: 12 V DC Panel Mechanical Equipment: Manual Bilge Pump Deck and Hull Equipment: Folding Step Ladder, Adult Life Jackets and Flare Kit, Fire Extinguishers, Anchor Mast and Sail Information: Mainsail, working Jib

2007 Open 5.7

Port Sanilac, Michigan

2007 Open 5.7 The Open 5.7 was Sailing Worlds 2007 one-design Boat of the Year.Stark, simple and well manufactured, the Open 5.70 is unsinkable and cannot capsize. The easy to handle asymmetrical spinnaker drives the boat downwind at high speed that can exceed 18 knots. Setting up the boat is very simple: the mast stepping and the launching can be done on your own. For weekend racing or sailing, its trailerable size allows to tow it behing your car with a standard car license. As an international OD Class, the Open 5.70 is a fantastic, fast sport boat supported by a friendly and active class association.More performance per dollar than you will find anywhere. Fun, fast and easy to sail, this sailboat is 19 feet of pure adrenaline. Trailerable and ready to launch in a half hour.

Narrow Results

Current search reset all.

• Keyword: trailerable sailboats
• Macgregor (6)
• Catalina (4)
• MacGregor (2)
• Precision (2)
• American Fiberglass (1)
• Beneteau (1)
• Cape Dory (1)
• Com-Pac (1)
• Crowther (1)
• Groupe Finot (1)
• Haven 12-1/2 (1)
• J Boats (1)
• Nor'Sea (1)
• Precision Boat Works (1)
• Sam L Morse (1)
• South Coast (1)
• Sunsail (1)
• White Hall (1)
• Sloop Sailboats (11)
• Sailboats (10)
• Daysailer Sailboats (7)
• Cruiser Boats (4)
• Cruiser Sailboats (3)
• Cruiser (1)
• Motorsailer (1)
• Michigan (13)
• Florida (7)
• California (3)
• New Jersey (3)
• Pennsylvania (3)
• Indiana (2)
• Massachusetts (2)
• Minnesota (2)
• North Carolina (2)
• Alabama (1)
• Connecticut (1)
• New Hampshire (1)
• New Mexico (1)
• South Carolina (1)
• Tennessee (1)
• Virginia (1)
• Washington (1)
• Wisconsin (1)
• POP Yachts (5)
• Search Title Only
• Has Picture
• Include Sold Listings

Showcase Ads

1969 RICHLINE HOLIDAY HOUSE

Boulder City, NV

2009 Steiger Craft 26 Miami

Cranston, RI

2000 C&C 121

2015 Sea Hunt Ultra 235

Inver Grove Heights, MN

2007 Scout 242 Sportfish

Indianapolis, IN

2015 Robalo 226 Cayman

Cleveland Heights, OH

2006 Cobalt Boats 250

Galveston, TX

Create Alert

Please, name this search

Select Interval

Alert Successfully Created

Boats by Make

Boats by type.

• American Tugboats
• Boston Whaler
• Buddy Davis
• Burger Yachts
• Carolina Classic
• Carolina Skiff
• Catalina Yachts
• Chris Craft
• Correct Craft
• Couach Yachts
• Cranchi Yachts
• Crest Pontoon
• Deep Impact
• DeFever Cruisers
• Dufour Yachts
• Ferretti Yachts
• Grady White
• HydraSports
• Maritimo Yachts
• Mastercraft
• Midnight Express
• Monte Carlo
• Oyster Yachts
• Premier Pontoon
• Prestige Yachts
• Princess Yachts
• Sumerset Houseboats
• Sunseeker Yachts
• Sun Tracker
• Symbol Yachts
• Tiara Yachts
• Trinity Yachts
• Viking Yachts
• All Purpose Fishing
• Aluminum Fishing
• Bay Boats (Flat Boats)
• Bluewater Fishing
• Cabin Cruiser
• Canoe Kayak
• Center Console
• Classic Powerboats
• Classic Sailboats
• Convertible
• Cruiser Sail
• Cruiser/Racer
• Cruising (Power)
• Cuddy Cabins
• Cutter Sailboat
• Daysailer/Weekender
• Dual Console
• Express Cruiser
• Fish & Ski Boats
• Freshwater Fishing
• High Performance
• Inboard Ski/Wakeboard
• Ketch Sailboat
• Mega Yachts
• Motor Yacht/Cruiser
• Motorsailer
• Multi-Hull Power
• Multi-Hull Sailboat
• Personal Watercrafts
• Pontoon Boat
• Rigid Inflatable
• Runabout Boat
• Saltwater Fishing
• Sloop Sailboat
• Sport Fishing Boat
• Submersible Boat
• Tender Boat
• Trawler Boat
• Walkaround Boat

Weekender Sailboat

• Yawl Sailboat

Weekender Boats for Sale

The Affordable Sailboats

Sailing has been a part of coastal life and leisure, since it was first introduced. Though the Greeks and the Romans used their vessels primarily for necessity, there have always been those which have found tranquility and enjoyment in sailing on the open seas. And while many today would view sailing as an activity for the more elite, it is not so. If you have ever dreamed of owning your own weekender boat, here are a few things you should consider.

Weekender Needs

Aesthetically, weekender sailboats are a stark contrast to many of the high-end sailing yachts on the market today, primarily because of the shorter LOAs. Compared to the larger yachts on the market, you will find that the layout of the weekender is a bit more simplistic. This does not mean that the design neglects materials and comfort, but rather that the space is optimized for ease of use.

The size of a weekender sailboat is generally less than 31’.  Weekender sailboats tend to have a smaller draft due to the twin keels, allowing the vessel to cruise around the coastal regions as well. Since the design of the weekender boats is oriented to the more “traditional” style of sailing, decking is often constructed of wood (or at least mimics such).

Weekenders are versatile for multiple sailing options. Most weekender models are gaff rigged and come with a single mainsail and foresail to keep things simple and easy to manage without the overly complicated multiple sails and masts of the larger vessels.

What Makes a Good Weekender?

Features of many of the weekender sail boats for sale today vary greatly from brand to brand, though there are several items which remain consistent regardless of the model or manufacturer. Firstly, weekend sailboats are engineered to resist capsizing, usually by incorporating a double hull into the design. Configuration of the hull not only allows the boat to sit higher in the water, making it easier to enjoy the shallow waters throughout Florida, but the rougher waters of the Atlantic as well.

Secondly, the performance of the vessels is rather consistent throughout the weekender boats for sale. Since sailing in this manner requires a slow pace, there is no need for a huge engine powering the boat through the water. You may find some weekenders with a small outboard motor, but these serve as a safety precaution more than as a navigational feature. The sails do most of the work of propelling the vessel at a comfortable pace and therefore, the lack of horsepower means that the boat can be maintained by the average boater without spending too much on fuel costs.

Weekender Yacht Brands

The weekender sailboat market is at an all-time high with more small sailing families taking to the seas, Here are some of the most popular brands.

• Aegean Yacht
• Bristol Yachts
• C&C Yachts
• Cabo Yachts
• Cruiser Yachts
• Grande Banks Yachts
• Meridian Yachts
• Pearson Yachts
• Sabre Yachts
• Sea Ray Boats

Keep in mind that although there are similarities amongst the weekender boats for sale, there will be variations from the manufacturers and from model to model. Depending upon the packaging, the features, year, and LOA of the boat, you could see the prices fluctuate substantially. That being stated, most of the weekender boats for sale start around $15,000 for the newer models and have been known to sell for less for models from the 70s and 80s.

Find Your Perfect Weekender Sailboat for Sale with Us

Finding a weekender sailboat for sale is easy with Vessel Vendor. Our site specializes in providing high quality pre-owned boats and yachts from the top listers, vendors, and distributers. Don’t know where to start? Don’t worry. We have several articles to assist you in finding your dream boat, such as our boat review pages, manufacturer summary pages, and location pages.

Looking to list your weekender boat for sale? Great. You will find that we are not your typical online boat classified site, but one that offers more benefits to both our buyers and sellers. Our sellers enjoy an easy format for self-posting platform to list their vessels for sale, as well as the cheapest seller fees of any other site in Florida. Our buyers, in turn, can enjoy an always changing inventory of available boats and yachts for sale.

We are also your number one resource for boat and yacht reviews as well as expert information on many marine related topics. Visit Vessel Vendo r today and discover the fun you can have shopping for your next weekender sailboat for sale or any other style of vessel that you could want. Should you have any questions about Weekender Boats, feel free to contact us with your inquiry, using the appropriate online form. We look forward to welcoming you into the Vessel Vendor family. Happy sailing.

If you are selling or buying weekender sailboats for sale use Vessel Vendor.  Vessel Vendor helps make buying and selling boats easier with our list of qualified boat enthusiasts. You can create a boat listing here with our easy to use platform online now.

Vessel Vendor is the best solution for buying a boat online. Our website connects qualified boat buyers with private boat sellers and co-brokerage listings to allow for the high visibility of available boats for sale on the market. Our brokerage firm and advanced website makes finding the your dream boat at an affordable price easy.

Help & Support

Top boat brands, subscribe to our newsletter.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 2023. VESSEL VENDOR.

Disclaimer: The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.

Mechanical Disclaimer: Engine hours are as of the date of the original listing and are a representation of what the listing broker is told by the owner and/or the actual reading of the engine hour meters. The broker cannot guarantee the true hours. It is the responsibility of the purchaser and/or his agent to verify engine hours, warranties implied or otherwise, and major overhauls, as well as all other representations noted on the listing brochure.

Website Disclaimer: Vessel Vendor is an entity owned by Marine Sales and Charters, LLC – a licensed, bonded, and insured Employing Yacht Brokerage Firm. 

Login or Register for website

• Reset Password

Interested In Learning More?

Save search, delete selected items.

My Cruiser Life Magazine

7 Best Trailerable Sailboats for Cruising

Many sailors balk at the idea of leaving their boat in the water at a marina. Slip fees are expensive, and maintenance bills get bigger the longer you leave a boat in the water. However, if you want a boat under 30 feet long, there are trailerable sailboats that will fit the bill.

Like any boat purchase, you’ll need to analyze precisely what kind of trailer sailer you want. Will a simple weekend sailboat suffice, or do you really need the best trailerable cruising sailboat you can find? 

Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of the best trailerable sailboat. Plus, we’ll look at how to compare them for your purposes.

Table of Contents

Best trailerable sailboats, easy to launch trailerable sailboats, quick setup time, towing weight, catalina 22/25 “pop-top”, com-pac horizon cat for classic coastal cruising, marshall sanderling — small, portable, classy, west wight potter 19 — the tiny go-anywhere sailboat, seaward 26rk with retractable lead keel, corsair f-24 trimaran – sporty sailing, macgregor 26m — maximum speed meets maximum living space, long-range cruising boats, 7 best trailerable boats – a recap, what’s the best trailerable sailboat for a cruise, trailerable sailboats faqs.

• Catalina 22/25
• Com-Pac Horizon Cat
• Marshall Sanderling
• West Wight Potter 19
• Seaward 26RK
• Corsair F-24 Trimaran
• MacGregor 26M

We’ll get into more detail about each brand in my post today, so hang tight!

What Is a Trailerable Sailboat, Exactly?

For this article, the priorities for a trailerable sailboat are:

• Easy to launch
• Require minimum setup to launch and store
• Lightweight enough to be towed by the average vehicle

Before you can really classify a sailboat as trailerable, you need to evaluate and narrow your search criteria. Truthfully, 50-plus-foot ocean-going sailboats are regularly put on trailers. But that’s done commercially, on a big rig, with special permits for oversized loads, and even led cars.  

That probably isn’t what most people mean when they think of a trailerable sailboat. But what is the priority here, the trailerable part or the sailboat part? Compromises are going to have to be made somewhere. 

If you’re looking at the 20-foot-and-under sailboat crowd, finding a trailerable example should not be hard. Most sailboats this size are designed for trailers anyway since they aren’t the sort of boats people want to pay to leave in a slip year-round.

Things get more interesting when you look at the 20 to 30-foot boats. In this class, there are stout ocean-going cruisers with deep keels and lightweight centerboard trailer sailboats designed from the get-go to be trailered by the average car or SUV. The differences between these boats are night and day.

Sailboats often have a hard time at boat ramps. First, deep keels mean that the trailer must extend farther into the water than the average boat ramp allows. This means the ramp needs to go back far enough, and the trailer tongue needs to be long enough not to swamp the car. 

If you have a boat like this, you’ll need to find the right boat ramps. Unfortunately, not all ramps are created equally. If your boat draws more than two or three feet on the trailer, you’re going to be limited to steep, paved, and high-quality boat ramps. Unfortunately, those aren’t standard features, so your cruising grounds are going to be limited.

Usually, ramps aren’t built steeply because they are often slippery. Your tow vehicle will need excellent traction and torque to pull your fully loaded boat out of a steep ramp. The steeper the ramp, the more trouble you’ll have. 

The alternative to finding steep ramps is to use a trailer tongue extender. This lets you get the trailer into deeper water without swamping the tow vehicle. But it also means that the ramp needs to extend deep enough. Many ramps end abruptly. Allowing your trailer to sink off the edge is an excellent way to get stuck or pop a tire.

Pick a boat as easy to launch and retrieve as a similarly sized powerboat to remove all of these boat ramp problems. The soft chines of most sailboats will always require a little more water, but a swing keel and the hinged rudder raised mean that the boat can sit low on the trailer bunks. That way, you only need one or two feet of water to launch, an easy feat at nearly every boat ramp you can find.

The next consideration for a sailboat to be portable enough to call it “trailerable” is the amount of time it takes to step the mast and get it ready to cruise. 

To accomplish this, you need a mast that can be stepped by a two-person team–maximum. Ideally, it will have some tabernacle hardware to enable one person to do the task for solo sailing.

There is an entire family of pocket cruisers that could ideally fit on trailers. But you won’t find the Fickas or the Falmouth cutters on my list, simply because they aren’t easy to launch or easy to rig. But, of course, they’re also too heavy for most vehicles to tow, which leads us to the final point of excluding them this trailable pocket cruiser’s list.

One of the most significant financial burdens the trailer sailer faces is their tow vehicle. You are all set if you already drive a two-ton dually diesel pickup truck. But if your daily driver is an SUV or light pickup, you need to think long and hard about the math of the towing equation. 

Whatever boat you buy cannot exceed the towing rating limits of your tow vehicle. If you don’t have a tow vehicle, you’ll need to buy one. This will double or triple the cost of getting a trailer sailer in most cases. For the same money, you may want to look at a boat that stays in the water at a traditional boat slip. For the cost of a trailer sailer and a tow vehicle, you can probably step into a nice boat that is larger and more comfortable than any towable.

If you have a tow vehicle, you need a light enough vessel for it to tow. Most modern SUVs tow less than 2,500 pounds. Anything more than 5,000 will require a full-size pickup. Remember that the tow weight isn’t just the boat’s displacement—it’s the empty hull weight, plus the weight of the trailer and any extra gear you need to pack into the boat. 

Finding a vessel that fits these limitations on weight isn’t easy. If the manufacturer’s goal is to make it towable, immediate limits are placed on the materials they can use. This means less seaworthiness since boats are built light and thin. As far as stability goes, lead keels are generally out, and water ballast systems or centerboards might be used instead. It doesn’t mean these boats aren’t safe and fun, but they aren’t designed for rough conditions, crossing oceans, or living on in the water full-time .

7 Best Trailerable Cruising Sailboats

There are more trailerable sailboats out there than you might imagine. Here’s a look at seven popular options of all shapes and sizes to give you a taste of what you might want to take to sea.

The boats here are selected for their storage and living space. With these boats and a little outfitting, you can spend weeks gunk-holing in the Chesapeake Bay or island hopping the Bahamas. If you broaden your scope to include daysailers with no cabin space, there are countless more options.

One of the worst parts of a small trailerable sailboat or pocket cruiser is the lack of stand-up headroom. One clever solution that you’ll find on some weekend sailboat types is the pop-top. 

The pop-top is simply an area around the companionway hatch that extends upward on struts. So when you’re at the dock or anchor, you get standing headroom down below—at least right inside the pop-top.

You can build a canvas enclosure for your pop-top to use it in all weather. A pop-top makes your boat feel much larger than it is and allows you to move freely to cook or get changed down below or even do a nice boat bed area. 

Later models of the Catalina Sport 22 and Capri 22s lacked this cool pop-top feature, so if you want it, you’ll need to seek out an older model on the used market.

Com-Pac has been building small sailboats since the early 1970s. They currently sell two lines, each with various-sized boats. All are well built, and a majority of their boats are trailerable. 

Most interesting at the Com-Pac traditional catboats . The rigging is more straightforward than modern sloops, with only one large mainsail. Com-Pac boats come with a unique quick-rig system to make getting on the water fast and simple.

The Horizon Cat Coastal Cruising has a displacement of 2,500 pounds with a 2’2″ draft when the board is up. She has a separate head forward and space to lounge either topside or down below. The smaller Sun Cat has slightly few amenities but shaves off a few feet and pounds, making it easier to tow and it is one of these amazing small sailboats. Com-Pacs features stub keels, so their centerboard and hinged rudder do not take up space in the cabin.

On the sloop rig side, the Com-Pac 23 comes in a 3,000-pound traditional sailboat or a very interesting pilothouse. Both are incredibly livable for their size , with shallow two-foot-long fixed keels and high-quality construction.

Another option if you like catboats is the Marshall Sanderling. This salty 18-footer oozes traditional charm , all while being easy to sail and easier to tow. And while she has wooden boat lines, she has a modern laminated fiberglass hull.

The Sanderling has a 2,200-pound displacement, so tow weights will be around 3,000 pounds. At only 18-feet, she’s on the small side for cruising. The cuddy cabin has no galley, and the portable toilet is not enclosed. But that small size means a simple boat that’s easy to maintain and take anywhere. 

An electric motor package is an exciting option on this weekend sailboat!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by @marshallmarinecat

You can’t mention tiny trailer sailers without touching on the famous West Wight Potter . These 15 and 19-foot pocket cruisers have earned a worldwide reputation as the ultimate go-anywhere coastal cruiser.

The West Wight Potter 19 offers the most living space for staying aboard and cruising. So even though its dimensions are diminutive, this little boat packs a lot in. There’s a single burner hotplate and sink and a porta-potty tucked under a cushion. Yes, it’s tight—but the company claims the little boat can sleep five people. Any more than two will feel pretty crowded, however.

The boat comes standard with a mast-raising system that a single person can manage alone. It has a daggerboard for a shallow draft of a half-foot when the board is up. The total towing weight is around 1,500 pounds, which means nearly any car can tow a West Wight Potter.

This little-known trailer sailer is produced at the same Florida factory that makes Island Packet Yachts. That should give you a little bit of an idea of what sort of boat it is—trailerable, yes, but also high-quality, beautiful, and built for cruising. In other words, it’s one of the nicest all round pocket cruisers and it feels like a much larger boat.

The Seaward is easily the saltiest boat on this list . It’s beefy and seaworthy. Instead of a lightweight centerboard, Seaward fits the RK with a bulb-shaped retracting keel. Other big-boat items include a Yanmar diesel inboard motor and an enclosed head. The spacious cabin of the boat features a double berth and is ready for salt water cruising.

According to sailboatdata.com , the tow weight of the 26RK is 6,000 pounds. With the keel up, the draft is 1.25 feet.

Multihull sailors need not feel left out from the trailer sailer club and the pocket cruiser. Beyond the ubiquitous beach Hobie Cat, there are not many options for catamarans. But trimarans are uniquely suited to be towed.

Why? For one thing, performance oriented boats like trimarans are based on it being built light. There is no ballast—a trimaran’s stability comes from its two outer hulls. Additionally, the living space is entirely housed in the central hull–the outer floats are small and sometimes foldable. Finally, there are no keels on tris, so they are extremely shallow draft and perfect for trailering.

If you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping sporty and fun sailing, it’s impossible to beat what a trimaran will offer. Let’s not beat around the bush—most of the trailer sailers on this list have hull speeds around five knots. The Corsair has no such limits, routinely sailing at 15 knots or more .

The new Corsair 880 trimaran has an unloaded weight of 3,659 pounds. It is trailerable behind a big SUV or small pickup and is probably the most fun sailing option that is trailerable at all.

An even more portable option is the older Corsair F-24. It has a light displacement of under 2,000 pounds—so nearly any SUV can tow it.

MacGregor owns the market on trailerable motor sailers since they more or less created the product to fit the bill. The MacGregor 26 is not like other boats. The design combines a planing powerboat with a centerboard sailboat. Imagine scooting along at 20 knots or more when the wind is down or enjoying a sporty sail on a breezy day–in the same boat.

The entire boat is built from the ground up for towing and long-range sailing. So if you want a big sailboat that you can tow behind pretty much any SUV, the MacGregor has to be on your list. 

Depending on the model, the 26-foot-long boats have incredibly light dry weights of between 1,650 and 2,350 pounds. Considering the massive volume of the roomy cabin, the ability to tow such a large vessel opens up an entire world of opportunities for owners. 

It’s not all good news, of course. MacGregor owners love their boats, but they are built light and are not ideally suited for offshore cruising or rough weather. But in bays and for coastal sailing on nice days, few boats can get as much use as a MacGregor. 

The motorboat capability of the 26M and 26X might not appeal to hardcore sailors, but for those looking to maximize their use of the boat depending on the weather, their mood, or location, it makes a lot of sense. 

MacGregor shut down in 2015, but the daughter and son-in-law of the original owners took over production and renamed the boat the Tattoo 26 . The company will soon release a smaller version, the Tattoo 22 .

If the 26 is a bit big to make your list of best trailerable small sailboats, consider the smaller Powersailer 19. It’s nearly identical to the 26, just smaller and lighter.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dale Roddick (@droddick33)

What Do You Want Your Trailer Sailer To Do?

After you’ve settled on how you will tow and launch your trailer sailer, now it’s time to dream about what you want it to do. Where will it take you? 

The beauty of a towable boat is that you can travel anywhere. A boat in the water might take weeks or months to move a few hundred miles. But if you can attach it to your car and do 65 mph on the interstate, you could sail on the Pacific on Monday, the Gulf of Mexico on Wednesday, and the Atlantic on Friday.

We can divide our trailerable sailboats into three groups – daysailers, weekenders, and cruisers.

These are designed with open cockpits and no space to sleep. This is a majority of the sub-22-foot boats on the market. They are designed to be launched, play for the day, and return to the ramp or dock.

A weekender will have rudimentary sleeping facilities. Think of it as a floating tent—it’s not a five-star hotel, but you can sleep under the stars or get out of the rain. Conceivably you could stay aboard indefinitely, but it doesn’t have much room for gear. So most people are ready to get off after a day or two. 

A cruising boat has sleeping, cooking, and toilet facilities built-in. These might be small and simple, but in any quantity, they mean you can disconnect from shore for a long time. Unfortunately, squeezing all of this into a tow-friendly package isn’t easy, and very few boats do it well. 

The best trailer sailor for your adventures will depend on many factors. Like any boat, whatever you decide on will be a compromise – boats always are. But there are plenty of choices out there, no matter what size your tow vehicle is and no matter what sailing adventures you have in mind.

What size sailboat is trailerable?

Even large yachts are routinely transported by towing across land, so the question is more of how big a sailboat can you tow? Your tow vehicle will be the limiting factor. The upper limit for most large SUVs and trucks is usually a sailboat around 26 feet long.

Sailboats are generally very heavily built, with ballast and lead keels. Sailboats specifically made to be trailer sailers are lighter. They may use drainable water ballast tanks instead of fixed ballast and have fewer fixtures and amenities.

To find the best trailer sailer, you need to balance the total tow weight, the ease of rig setup at the boat ramp, and the boat’s draft. Shallow draft boats with centerboards are the easiest to launch and retrieve.

Is a Hunter 27 trailerable?

No. The Hunter 27 is a one of those fixed-keel larger boats built from 1974 to 1984. The boat’s displacement is 7,000 pounds, not including trailer and gear. That alone makes it too heavy to tow by all but the beefiest diesel trucks. 

Furthermore, the fixed keels had drafts between 3.25 and 5 feet, all of which are too much for most boat ramps. In short, the standard Hunter Marine 27 is too big to tow for most people.

On the other hand, Hunter has made several good trailer sailers over the years. For example, the Hunter 240 and 260 were explicitly designed for trailering. They have drainable water ballast and shallow keel/centerboard drafts less than two feet. 

Is a Catalina 22 trailerable?

Yes, the Catalina 22 is easily trailerable and makes a wonderful weekend sailboat. In fact, there were over 15,000 Catalina 22s made and sold over the years. 

The boat’s displacement is 2,250 pounds, which means your total tow weight with trailer and gear will be under 3,000 pounds. This is within the capabilities of most mid to full-size SUVs and light trucks. Be sure to check your vehicle’s towing capacity, of course.

The centerboard on the Catalina 22 is another factor in its easy towing. With the board up, the boat draws only two feet. This makes it easy to float off the trailer at nearly any boat ramp. You should avoid fixed keel versions of the 22 for towing unless you have access to extra deep ramps. 

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

Can someone tell me why no other manufacturer makes pop tops? Those who have them, love them. Makes sense for head space with a trailerable boat too. Catalina stopped making them decades ago, yet people still swear by them. So, why isn’t there any newer models?

MacGregor put pop tops on many of its trailerables

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Looking for fun things to do this weekend March 22-24? Top 5 events in Palm Beach County

I t's officially winter in South Florida and though you won't be building snowmen or hitting the slopes, you will be able to enjoy outdoor activities without having to layer up or even wear a jacket most of the time. This is the time to venture outside enjoy festivals, greenmarkets and the area's incredible entertainment. Get out this weekend and get your nautical fix at the Palm Beach International Boat Show along the water in downtown West Palm Beach, feed your need for speed during the 2024 Gopher Tortoise Gallop 5K and/or hear the band Donzii perform during Art After Dark at the Norton Museum of Art.

In addition to the top five events listed there's always something great happening at places like  The Norton Museum of Art  or the  Maltz Jupiter Theatre. On top of that you could always just enjoy a great meal with an equally great view at one of Palm Beach County's  waterfront restaurants  from Jupiter to Boca Raton. Plus, we've curated a list of the best things to do all year in the county, and here it is: your bucket list of 55 fun must-try things to do in Palm Beach County.

1. Palm Beach International Boat Show 2024

Once again held along Flagler Drive in beautiful downtown West Palm Beach, this four-day event will feature more than 800 boats ranging from megayachts to kayaks, exhibitors featuring over 600 brands of fishing and boating gear, multiple beverage and food vendors and more. Coming from Miami, Fort Lauderdale or Boca Raton? No problem as Brightline trains will be running and boat show shuttles will be ready to transport guests to the show.

The event runs noon to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 21; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, March 22 and Saturday, March 23 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 24. Single day adult tickets start at $33; single day child (ages 6 to 15) start at $17. Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach. pbboatshow.com

2. Zumba Dance Party with Jaime at The Mall at Wellington Green

Whether you've got the grace of Ginger Rogers or Fred Flintstone (who, actually sliding down the back of a dinosaur was actually quite graceful), come down and start "Livin' La Vida Zumba!" at this dance event that combines high- and low-intensity Latin dance moves designed to burn calories and boost endurance.

The event is 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 23. 10300 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. Free. Information: shopwellingtongreen.com

3. 2024 Gopher Tortoise Gallop 5K

Whether or not you're a tortoise or hare, get outside and run or walk through Okeeheelee Park, while celebrating this keystone species that is the official tortoise of the Sunshine State. If you're running, the event is chipped time with awards for the top three overall (male and female) finishers and top three in each age group. Hosted by Friends of Okeeheelee Nature Center, this event will benefit the center's animals, exhibits and programs. There will be music, snacks, a DJ and dancing.

The event starts at 6:30 a.m. Saturday, March 23. 7715 Forest Hill Blvd., West Palm Beach. See website for entry fees. Information: victorysportsmgt.com/gophertortoisegallop5k

4. Palm Beach Gardens Community Yard Sale

Held on the city hall municipal campus, this event will feature between 40 and 50 vendors selling off hundreds of treasures and bargains. Find your treasure this weekend and on the way home, pat yourself on the back and yell "score!"

The event is 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 23. 10500 N. Military Trail, Palm Beach Gardens. Free entry. Information: 561-630-1100; [email protected]

5. Art After Dark at the Norton Museum of Art

This week's rendition of the popular event will feature lecture on the exhibition Rose B. Simpson: Journeys of Clay along with a musical performance by the band Donzii. Featuring vocalist Jenn Balfe and musician Dennis Fuller, get ready for some post-punk goodness mixed with darkly ambient balladry.

The event is 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, March 22. 1450 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach. Adults, seniors $10, students $5. Information: norton.org/events/aad-3-22-24

Eddie Ritz is a journalist at  The Palm Beach Post , part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at  [email protected] . Help support our journalism.  Subscribe today .

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Looking for fun things to do this weekend March 22-24? Top 5 events in Palm Beach County