[Kristen]

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]

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!

[stuartsailor]

Well the perfect daysailor depends on your definition. Is speed the goal? Joyfull sailing? (which I define as a boat the responds to the sailor and gives feed back, be it fast or slow, it’s not cranky or fiddley, but also not boring. It is just joyfull to sail). Are you focused on ease of towing, launching, and rigging?

Personally I like Compacs for just sailing. Rhodes 19s/Mariners are quite special. There are probably a thousand good boats in this category. When Nantucket Sleigh Ride was designed they called her a day sailor at 72 feet and a 3 person professional crew. But she is great for day sailing on a luxury budget.