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  • Daysailer Suggestions

    Posted by Jenny on January 21, 2025 at 10:57 am

    My last small sailboat was an American 14.6, and it was such a roomy 14′ daysailer that I once fit 6 people in it for a trip out to a local island! If I’m in the market to get another daysailing sailboat that’s a similar size (easy to tow) and very roomy for guests, what would others recommend? My only complaint with the American 14.6 was that it was just rare enough that it was hard to find parts when something broke.

    Jenny replied 2 months, 1 week ago 2 Members · 2 Replies
  • 2 Replies
  • Kristen

    Member
    January 22, 2025 at 2:14 pm
    280
    Bronze
    New Sailor

    Jenny – There are so many incredible boats out there that are getting lighter and easier to tow. If you are looking for the ideal “trailer sailer” and have the budget – the J/70 is a boat that can do it all. Fun, fast, easy to sail. You could even “performance cruise” in it. Perfect for that Beaver Island circumnavigation or a glamping trip to the North Channel.

    But if you don’t have 50k sitting around, consider something that sails great and is a “grins factory” like the Melges 15. Super easy to put together, can be towed by a small car and has a great class following.

    Of course, not everyone looks for speed or spells FUN – F.A.S.T. I love classic-looking boats like the Beetle Cat, but they are a pain and EXPENSIVE for what they are. There is a boat with nearly all the charm that can be had for a fraction of the price. Be on the look out for a Stur-Dee Cat. A nifty boat that sails well and looks good doing it.

    Hope you find your next boat and can get sailing soon!

    • Jenny

      Member
      January 24, 2025 at 9:07 am
      287
      Bronze
      New Sailor

      Oh, I think that Stur-Dee Cat is what I’m really looking for…. The other boats are quite a bit bigger, and I don’t have a truck, so staying near the 14′ benchmark is ideal for me. Thanks for the feedback!

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