trawler or sailboat

Sailboat vs. Trawler: What’s the Difference?

For anyone new to boating, it can be difficult to determine what type of water-bound vessel is right for you. There are several categories of boats; each of them is designed for unique purposes and offer different benefits. However, when it comes to boating on large bodies of water, these boat types can be narrowed down into two main classifications: sailboats, such as vessels that are propelled by sails, and motorboats, such as engine-powered trawlers.

What’s the difference between a sailboat and a trawler? There are a few distinct differences between sailboats and trawlers:

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(Source: Discover Boating )

There are also a few similarities that can be found among sailboats and trawlers, such as the types of activities that can be performed with the vessels. The remainder of this article will explore both types of boats, and the various characteristics of each.

Understanding Sailboats

A sailboat is classified as a water vessel that is mainly (or partially) propelled by a sail or sails using wind currents. However, although most sailboats are associated with their ability to move on solely wind power, there are a few sailboats that may also have a small engine to help move it along on less windy days.

How Do Sailboats Work?

Unlike a car, where its movement is more dependent on internal, automatic functions of the motor, a sailboat requires its owner to be more involved in the process of propelling it forward. However, this movement does not happen unless a sailboat is fully equipped with these eight essential parts.

Hull – The shell of the boat.
Tiller – Considered the boat’s steering wheel.
Rudder – Attached to the tiller and functions like a tire, helping guide the boat as you turn with the tiller.
Mainsail – A larger sail that captures the bulk of wind needed to move the sailboat along.
Mast – A long, upright pole that the vertical part of the mainsail is attached to.
Boom – A long pole parallel to the deck of the boat that the horizontal side of the mainsail attaches to.
Jib – A smaller, triangular sail that adds additional power to the mainsail.
Keel – Also referred to as the “centerboard” or “daggerboard,” the keel is a long, slender plank that is located underneath the hull and designed to help keep the boat balanced.

Maintenance & Operation

Sailboats require regular maintenance, including interior and exterior cleaning, hull waxing, woodwork varnishing, sail repair, and more. Sailboat equipment, such as the hull, engine, or sails, will also need routine repairs as they age in years.

Types of Sailboats

The various types of sailboats that exist are distinguished by size, hull type, keel type, and mast and sail configuration.

Hull Design – Monohull (single hull), catamaran (two-hull), or trimaran (three-hull).
Keel Design – Fin, wing, bilge, daggerboard, or centerboard.
Mast Configuration & Sails – fractional rig sloop, yawl, cutter , sloop, ketch, schooner, etc.

The most common types of sailboats that can be described with these categories are as follows:

Beach Catamaran – These sailboats are usually between 14 to 20 feet in length. They are mostly used for day sailing.
Cruising Catamaran – Cruising catamarans are a larger version of the beach catamaran, reaching between 25 to 50+ feet in length. They are also much more similar to cruising monohull sailboats. Cruising catamarans feature accommodations for extended cruising periods.
Cruising Sailboat – Cruising sailboats average 16 to 50+ feet in length. Most cruising sailboats are designed with cabins for extended cruising.
Daysailer – As the name suggests, daysailer vessels are meant to be used during the day, and are the common sailboat choice for new boaters. Ranging from 14 to 20 feet in length, these boats are modestly sized and have enough room to seat about four passengers.
Motorsailer – Motorsailers use inboard engines to cruise for long periods of time. They are quite large in comparison to other types of sailboats, starting at 35 feet in length; this is due to its high number of luxury accommodations. However, due to its size and weight, this type of vessel is not ideal for high sailing speeds.
Racer-Cruiser – The racer-cruiser sailboat is a combination of the cruising sailboat with equipment designed for competitive racing. The average length starts at 25 feet.
Racing Sailboats – Racing sailboats are nearly similar to cruising boats, but are built lighter for speed. They are typically 20 to 70+ feet in length.
Sailing Dinghies – These smaller boats are usually under 15 feet in length, and are built to seat one to two people. They are often used for competitive racing, but are a great sailboat option for anyone new to boating.

(Source: Boat U.S. )

Popular Sailboat Brands

There is a wide variety of common sailboat brands, including:

Hallberg-Rassy
Amel Yachts
Oyster Yachts
Hinckley Yachts
Sparkman & Stephens
Baltic Yachts

Pros of Sailboats

Sailboats give you the opportunity to improve your physical health with the amount of movement and strength involved.
Sailboats are fuel-efficient due to their smaller engines and reliance on wind power. They are also more friendly to the environment as a result.
Sailboats have a tendency to have a longer lifespan compared to motorboats such as trawlers.
Ideal for individual sea-farers or smaller groups.
They allow an unlimited potential for travel; you do not have to be restricted to where and how far you can go based on how much fuel you have in a tank.
Sailboats give owners a sense of adventure and satisfaction by having full control of how you navigate the waters.
Being without a motor most of the time means you can sail with peace and quiet.

Cons of Sailboats

The costs of maintaining a sailboat increase with its age, and in general, they require more routine maintenance compared to other vessels.
Sailboats do not offer a lot of speed compared to engine-based vessels like trawlers. On average, they may reach a max speed of 7 knots (13 km/h).
Some sailboats can lack the space needed to hold a large number of passengers.
Because sailboats mostly have to rely on wind to move about, optimal sailing can only occur if the weather is favorable enough.
There is a high learning curve for first-time sailboat owners.
Due to the amount of equipment on the decks of sailboats, there is often not enough room for shade for passengers. This is unfavorable for many who wish to go sailing during the summer months.
Sailboat hulls usually sit lower in the water compared to other types of water vessels, meaning that you may often not be able to sail in shallow waters or even get too close to any beach areas when docking.

Understanding Trawlers

A trawler is a distinct type of powerboat, designed for cruising across large bodies of water. They often have features such as a displacement hull and fuel-efficient engines, ideal for smooth maneuvering through water without using too much fuel or exhausting a lot of horsepower. Trawlers also usually have a living area below deck for seafarers wanting to stay aboard for long stretches of time.

Types of Trawlers

There are two main types of trawler: fishing trawlers and trawler yachts. *

Fishing Trawler – Fishing trawlers are the most commonly known type of trawler. They are mainly designed to help drag large fishing nets through the water for fishermen.
Trawler Yachts – Also referred to as the recreational trawler or cruising trawler, trawler yachts are unlike the fishing variety in that they are built for comfort and luxury. They offer staterooms and other fine amenities for its passengers.

*A fact worth mentioning is that during the World Wars, there once were Naval Trawlers, which were more so designed to launch underwater missiles and mines toward sea bound enemies. Of course, this type of trawler has no longer been common since that time period, although a few lingering historical vessels remain.

(Source: Marine Insight )

How Do Trawlers Work?

Trawlers work just a little bit differently, depending on the type. Fishing trawlers tow at slower speeds with their built-in motor, usually to accommodate the casting and dragging of fishing nets (also known as trawls, hence the origin of the trawler name) throughout fishing waters.

The fishing trawler relative, the trawler yacht (recreational trawler), on the other hand, can run at double the speed–cruising between 7-9 knots (13-17 km/hr), with a maximum speed of 12 knots (22 km/hr).

The few similarities the two types of trawlers share are the hull forms and propulsion.

Because trawlers often resemble small sized homes with the number of luxury amenities they offer, it is often recommended to maintain them similarly to how you would a home. Some things that need regular upkeep include plumbing, electrical systems, and the boat’s HVAC system.

Popular Trawler Brands

There are over 70 trawler manufacturers in the United States, with some of the more popular brands including:

Nordic Tugs
Cutwater Boats
Ranger Tugs
Marlow-Pilot
Sabre Yachts

Pros of Trawlers

Trawlers are great for long-distance or overnight cruising.
Trawlers offer a good fuel economy compared to other types of powerboats.
They are an ideal boat type for fishermen or fishing hobbyists.
They make a good boat choice for those interested in navigating around bays or wide-open or large bodies of water.
Trawlers offer a lot more speed compared to sailboats. They can reach max speeds of 12 knots (22 km/hr).
They often have plenty of room to hold multiple passengers.
Trawlers also have more amenities compared to sailboats, perfect for long days of travel and to keep passengers in comfort.
Because they rely on engine power rather than wind power, trawlers can be used no matter the weather.
There is not a high learning curve when it comes to operating trawlers.

Cons of Trawlers

Because trawlers are often used extensively and continually, they may have higher maintenance costs compared to other types of boats.
Although trawlers are made to be fuel-efficient, the cost of keeping their tanks full can add up with fluctuating, unpredictable gas prices.
With an onboard engine comes a costly repair fee if it were to break down, just like any other motorized vehicle.
In addition, with an engine in a trawler, you are inviting unwanted noise as you travel.

Similarities Between Sailboats & Trawlers

So far, we have discussed some of the key differences between sailboats and trawlers, but what about similarities? Besides both being common types of water vessels, they often share the following characteristics:

Use & Purpose – Both sailboats and trawlers can be used for the same type of water activities, from fishing, to day and night cruising. It is important to keep in mind that no matter what type of boat you decide to invest in, it should fit what you intend to do with it.
Maintenance – The two types of vessels both require regular maintenance that should increase and correlate with how often you use them. For example, try to perform routine cleanings, engine and/or sail checkups, and regular equipment inspections.
Fuel-Efficient – Sailboats rely on wind to guide them, eliminating the need for fuel at all. In the cases where a sailboat does feature an engine, the engine is usually quite small, still making the boat quite fuel-efficient. Trawlers, on the other hand, use small, fuel-efficient engines to keep them going across wide bodies of water for hours to days at a time.
Hull Type – Many trawlers, and even quite a few sailboats, have displacement hulls, which are designed to help navigate through the water smoothly and efficiently. They are usually rounded at the bottom, and form a teardrop shape from the boat’s bow to stern.

Should You Use a Sailboat or Trawler?

If you are planning on taking an extended trip or vacation out on the water, a trawler boat may be the better option for you. Trawlers are often designed to have private staterooms, a kitchen (galley), and a living room (saloon), allowing you all of the comforts of home on your sea vessel. Trawlers are also fuel-efficient with their small engines, large fuel capacity, and fair cruising speeds, making a long journey across the water worth taking in these vessels!

A trawler boat may also be a better option for fishermen, specifically the fishing trawler type. Its onboard winches and pulley system allows you to cast large fishing nets into the water and pull along as you slowly tow across fishing grounds.

On the other hand, if you are more interested in day-sailing or shorter trips near the dock, a sailboat may be the better fit. Because sailing requires more time and energy, it is usually only for those who are more than willing to learn the craft and genuinely enjoy being more hands-on on the water.

In conclusion, both sailboats and trawlers make excellent sea-faring vessels for boaters of all types; the best vessel for you will simply depend on what exactly you are looking for in your boat. If you are looking for ultimate relaxation or to fish, a trawler boat is what you need. But, if you find excitement in navigating the waters with your own hands and being one with the water around you, a sailboat can provide exactly that experience.

I am the owner of sailoradvice. I live in Birmingham, UK and love to sail with my wife and three boys throughout the year.

Trawler vs. Sail

March 30, 2019 93 Comments

Trawler versus sail—a comparison that is often dismissed as an old-person versus young-person, apples-to-oranges argument. It’s assumed that a sailor will sail until his hands are too crippled to manage a line any longer, then buy a trawler that will sit dockside, until one day a dockmaster is notified of a disturbing smell coming from “that boat the old guy lives in.”

But maybe there is more to it. Maybe sailors can get tired of sailing, sometimes, and we can wonder just how much we would really miss it if there were no sails to raise. When I was ready for my next family boat, I had no problem whatsoever coming to the conclusion that I wouldn’t miss sails. I really should say we had no problem, as the choice was very much a mutual one with my wife, Ali—and our kids didn’t care as long as they were back on the water.

For a quick background check on my credentials, let me just point out that Ali and I sailed around the world on our 35′ catamaran, and also spent a few years bopping around the West Coast of the U.S. and Mexico on a 43′ monohull—thus giving myself some rolly-polly boat cred, as well. I discussed the catamaran versus monohull debate here and here . I think we all know how that debate turns out, don’t we? If we’re being honest.

After about 8 years, 65 countries, and 45,000 miles in boats with floppy white things, and small engines, my family moved on to an entirely different kind of cruising—trawler.

We bought a 1986 42′ Grand Banks in Florida two years ago, spent a cruising season putting a couple thousand miles on her through the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and back to Florida. This season we visited Key West and then headed west across the Gulf to Mexico, with plans to continue south through Central America.

During this time we’ve established some pretty strong opinions about the trawler versus sail debate, so I’m going to lay it out here now.

Purchase Cost

Our 35′ catamaran was just a year old when we bought it for $157,000. It didn’t need any work in order to take off and cruise. We added a watermaker, replaced the batteries, and set off to sail around the world.

The monohull was a 1982 43′ Spindrift that had sat in a marina in the Sacramento Delta for a dozen years. The engine was half underwater, and the decks were degrading—but the interior was still in beautiful, like new condition, and the layout of the pilothouse was exactly what we wanted for our family of three. We bought it for $48,000, sight unseen off of Craigslist, and moved aboard with our six-month-old baby girl.

Our 42′ Grand Banks cost $120,000. We’re now a family of four, and this boat fits. The teak decks are getting a little long in the tooth, but aside from that it is in amazing shape. The engine room immediately sold me on this boat. Immaculate, huge, and obviously well cared for. The interior woodwork was exceptional, and every single thing on the boat worked. Even the exterior fiberglass looks like it was laid yesterday. For a thirty-three year old boat, it looks fabulous.

When people unfamiliar with trawlers step inside our boat for the first time, their jaws drop. It may only be 42 feet, but the space it affords is enormous—it has comfortable living space, from one end to the other.

The aft stateroom on the Grand Banks is our two kids’ room, with a twin bed on one side, a full-size bed on the other, a dresser, enough floor space for two kids and all their toys, and a very large closet. Ceiling height in this room, as well as everywhere else in the boat, is well clear of my 6′ 2” and never requires stooping. Not many sailboats can say that.

The galley and saloon are extremely roomy and well laid-out, with two large refrigerator/freezers, two couches, a big table, acres of windows, and light. Yes, light! Something our monohull was always lacking, despite the fact that it was a pilothouse with lots of windows.

Our monohull and catamaran combined wouldn’t hold a candle to the trawler’s space. Finally, in case you are a hoarder, there is more storage under the seats on the top deck, as well as under the steering station. When we moved aboard we found a total of twenty-seven life jackets onboard. I’m certain this was because they simply forgot where they were all stored, and just kept buying more.

Advantage, absolutely, positively, trawler.

Our catamaran had two little Volvo 20hp engines, and was exceedingly, painfully, slow under power. Granted, it sipped diesel, but I would have traded fuel economy for power a hundred times, at least, during our time on that boat. Top motoring speed, 4.0 knots. In addition, the engines are located underneath the beds, meaning hot beds at night, and a workspace that includes needing to pull mattresses completely out of the room.

It was a welcome change when we moved to the monohull and graduated to a Ford Lehman 80. Yet even that good-sized engine could only shove our beast of a full-keeler to 5.6 knots at normal RPMs. On the plus side, the engine space was much larger and easier to work in, though still a long way from enjoyable. I did however appreciate being able to fit a five gallon bucket under the oil pan for changes.

Now, in the Grand Banks, we’re powered by twin Ford Lehman 135s, and it is a thing of beauty. Calculating our ETA to the next island using an input of 8.5 knots is a wonderful feeling. And, oh boy, can I bend your ear raving about the massive engine room.

But wait, I hear the sailors saying, “We sailboat cruisers don’t care about how fast we can go, or what our motoring speed is, we just capture the wind and go where it takes us.” To which my only reply is, “You must be new here.”

Are there exceptions to the rule—the rule that states that 90% of sailors will sail just 10% of the time? Sure. Every sailor thinks they are the exception, but experience, and truthfulness, will soon tell them otherwise. We’re all motorboaters in the end.

Catamarans, obviously, are well known for their stability. In a mono versus cat debate it would take an incredible imagination to argue in favor of the monohull. Anyone who says they prefer the rolling of a monohull to the slightly jerky, but flat, motion of a catamaran is either certifiably insane, or… no, they are definitely insane.

People can claim to enjoy heeling over, but anyone who has done multi-day passages knows full well how exhausting it eventually is to live on a hill. It’s just impossible to argue a case for the monohull. And any captain who prefers that the crew he’s got with him not spend their days barfing over the side of the boat, will attest to the beauty of the catamaran design.

So how does a semi-displacement trawler handle the ocean?

Ahhh, that’s where we got lucky. Honestly, I didn’t know a thing about stabilizers before we bought our boat. When I saw on the sale listing that it had stabilizers, I gave that news about the same affirming nod I gave to the listing pointing out the autopilot.

But there they were—Naiad stabilizing fins on each side of the boat. We bought our boat in St. Augustine, Florida, and it wasn’t until we set off down the ICW that I hit the buttons to activate them for the first time. A while later, a typical ICW speedboat went past, throwing up a wake that would strike fear into even the most hardened monohull sailor. I steered a straight line, not even turning to point into the waves, and the experience was transcendant—a trawler that handles waves like a catamaran.

A monohull sailboat? Forget it—there’s nothing stable about a monohull in any condition.

A trawler with stabilizers? Such an incredibly close second-place finish. Underway, our trawler is a virtual equal to our catamaran. In fact, I’d give it a slight nod because of the weight and its ability to smash through waves on the nose without losing momentum the way the cat would. At anchor, the trawler suffers almost the same maladies that a monohull does—a wraparound swell will always drive you nuts. The trawler doesn’t seem to build the momentum of the pendulum that a mono sailboat does, but it will get rolling all the same. This past season I laid out a back anchor in at least half a dozen anchorages around the Bahamas to get our bow pointed into the swell. In each of those instances, the catamaran likely wouldn’t have been bothered much.

Operating Cost

Sailboat owners immediately point out fuel costs as an argument against a trawler, so let’s tackle that issue right off the bat.

Our cruising on the trawler so far has been typical of a lot of users. We motored down from north Florida, over to the Bahamas, down to the Turks and Caicos, back to central Florida, down to the Keys, and across to Mexico. From here we’ll head to Guatemala to wait out another hurricane season. All told, about 3,500 miles. Our total fuel cost (we won’t need more before hurricane season) is $7,702 for those two years. At an average price of $4.64/gallon ($3.25 in the U.S, and up to $5.25 in the islands). Break it down and that’s $320 per month.

Let’s do some back of the napkin math and assume a sailboat motored half the time (that’s being extremely generous to sailboat cruisers in the islands, for whom the average is likely closer to 90%). 1,750 miles, at five miles to the gallon, is 200 gallons, or $1624—$68 per month. Everybody is different, and for some the $252/mo difference might be a deal breaker. I can’t really say. For us, fuel is about 8% of our total annual expenditures, and is considered just another cost of living.

However, let’s not forget that running costs really include more than just diesel. There are oil changes to deal with, and basic engine maintenance. These all vary wildly, but it’s safe to say that a trawler with twin Ford Lehman 135hp engines is going to cost more to maintain than a monohull with a single 80hp, or a cat with twin 20hp.

On the other hand, a trawler doesn’t have running rigging to deal with. What’s a new mainsail cost? How about that 150′ spinnaker halyard? Or standing rigging to keep that 50′ mast from tumbling down in the first big blow? A trawler will never incur any of these substantial costs. And you might think, how is a spinnaker halyard a substantial cost? Put it this way—at $2.50/ft for that line, that’s $375, broken down over a year, that’s a $31/mo expense that the trawler didn’t incur. Will that line need to be replaced next year? No, but some other one will, or a block that it runs through, or some other fancy stainless steel clip. Point is, it all adds up. One year will be more, one year will be less, but that doesn’t mean these costs don’t exist for sailors.

In the end, I’ll concede an edge to the sailboat owner in running costs, but it is a lot slimmer margin than most people would like to think. Slim enough that for many people it will be inconsequential.

The only thing our Grand Banks isn’t capable of doing is cross major oceans. We’re not going to go across the Atlantic or Pacific in this boat. But, of course, we knew that when we bought it. Anyone planning a circumnavigation isn’t going to be debating trawler versus sail—that is, unless they are in the million dollar boat market.

Our Grand Banks carries 600 gallons of diesel, which I figure gives us a safe range of somewhere around 800 miles, with a few hundred miles of margin built in to give us considerable leeway in case something went wrong along the way.

Where can an 800 mile range take us? Well, anywhere in the Great Loop North America, down through the Caribbean island chain, around the entirety of the Caribbean Sea, through the Panama Canal, and right on up Central America, Mexico, and the west coast of the U.S. and Canada to Alaska. That’s a whole lot of cruising grounds to cover, and is more than enough adventure for all but the hardiest cruisers. Unless you are circumnavigating, there are very few places that you can’t reach in a trawler.

Technically, a sailboat wins here, but realistically, for almost every boat owner, cruising range is a tie. Those with plans to cross major oceans already know they need sails.

Miscellaneous

Marinas. Obviously, most marinas aren’t set up for the beam of a catamaran, will have fewer spaces available, and more and more often these days will charge 1.5-2x as much per foot as a monohull.

Added Weight. A cat is built to be light, meaning smaller water and fuel tanks. Our catamaran held just 70 gallons of water and 60 gallons of diesel. Our other boats held closer to 5 times as much of each. As cruisers we always add 300 feet of chain to our anchoring tackle as well, which is quite a bit of extra weight for a catamaran, but won’t even budge the waterline on a heavy monohull or trawler.

Bridges. Not a very common issue for most people, but anyone who would like to spend some time on the ICW is going to quickly despise the waterway if they have a mast. I found cruising the Florida ICW to be a very enjoyable experience in the trawler.

View. It may be a little thing, but I really love the feel of sitting up on the flybridge while underway. The view of the water is spectacular compared to the cockpit of a monohull, or the forward view from a catamaran’s little captain’s chair tucked behind the cabintop.

Everyone needs the right boat for the right job. Being a circumnavigator I often tend to think of things in terms of long-distance ocean voyaging, but then I step back and realize that only the tiniest fraction of liveaboard cruisers are going to—or even want to—sail around the world, or across major oceans. For those that do, if they’ve got the money, the obvious choice is a catamaran.

For the more common coastal cruiser, island hopper, Great Looper, there are other choices. With a budget under $80,000 the best bang for the buck is likely going to be a monohull. At that price you can get a well-equipped strong boat. It won’t win any awards for storage or comfort, but it’ll get you out on the water cruising, and ultimately that’s what is most important.

Over $80,000 I think a trawler wins the award for most versatile. We wouldn’t trade our trawler for any monohull sailboat. Both the indoor and outdoor space win hands down over a monohull. The huge engine room blows away any mono I’ve ever seen. And even the stability (admittedly due to the stabilizers) is incredible. We love every single aspect of our trawler more than our monohull.

So, to wrap up, if you just want to go cruising, and don’t have any plans to venture more than a couple hundred miles from land, buy a trawler and you won’t be disappointed. If you’ve got a few hundred grand burning a hole in your pocket and want to have the opportunity for passages of more than a couple of days, grab yourself a catamaran, and if you just really want to get out on the water, but the pocketbook isn’t as thick as you’d like, get a monohull and go enjoy life at sea.

93 Comments on “Trawler vs. Sail”

Great article Patrick. Mono haul sailor to gold looper in a 38 ft trawler. 360 view while sitting in the cabin. Follower from day 1, thanks.

I have a gold burgee too! 2018. Quite an adventure.

Hi Pat: I’ve been lurking around you blog for quite a while now going back to the days on your catamaran etc but have never left a comment. Today that changed as not only do I enjoy reading about your travels and lifestyle but this post really peaked an interest into the trawler option as away to get on the water. I am a Canadian “prairie” landlubber (64) but something about this lifestyle is tugging at me. There would be lots to learn and I wonder if that’s possible. I am active and healthy so maybe? I was wondering however how hard it would be to find summer storage somewhere where weather etc would not harm the vessel and aprox costs might be, assuming the boat was used only in winter travels in the south and assuming that is even a wise/secure option. Take care.

Turner Marine in Mobile AL has low monthly rates. There’s lots of racked boat storage around to keep your smaller boats out of the weather but these are not hurricane proof either.

I’m the same age as you and ‘looped’ last year (2017/2018)

How nice to read a reasoned argument. Kind of rare these days.

Thanks for taking the time.

Too Spooky! I was wondering what the pros, cons, cost comparisons would be just yesterday after my wife and I decided to look in a Trawler over a Catamaran. Funny enough we also favored the 42 Grand Banks! You’re in my head!

I love it when that happens. Best to check out a couple of both and then you’ll be able to figure out what you like. Good luck! And keep us posted.

This was fantastic — thanks. I’m a wannabe sailor — not experienced — so forgive me if this is a stupid question: Could you sail to Newfoundland and then hop to the British Isles on a trawler? Or would the northern seas be too rough?

No idea. Start googling. Sounds gorgeous!

Nice read. I am a Walter Mitty kinda guy. Other than being a motorcyclist, l do my other adventures through reading and studying. The sailing life style appealed to me but not so much to my wife. Cats seemed to address most of her concerns but their cost is beyond our resources. Trawlers seemed to be the only other viable option. The big unknown was the operational costs, which you covered quite nicely. What I would offer into your assessment is the the start up cost for a cat vs a trawler. That being, one can buy a lot of fuel with the money not expended on a cat. Now this Walter Mitty is off to find a gyroscope to stabilize his trawler while at anchor.

I’m confused… 4 kts.., I always figured the charter cat was able to get you upwards of 8. our catamaran, a 105mc gemini gets 6-7, granted its a foot shorter and the beam is narrower, but for motoring I’m really surprised at the numbers.. we have got only one engine and its a 27 hp. People have done the same trip you have in their gemini ( not saying everyone should), but this would be in the 80-200 k range for a smaller catamaran.

Next to our boat is a twin of your trawler. As in identical… All shrinkwrapped up… Waiting for the weather to break here.

As alway, we really enjoy you blog and photos. Some day, please write up what you do for the pictures. Cameras,..

Have fun, It’s almost sailing season here.,,

This should help with the stability of your trawler: https://seakeeper.com

What a great article, Pat. Have so enjoyed seeing your writing style change and skills increase over the years! Photography skills are superior, also. What a great life you guys have! Keep it up. Health and happiness to all. ?

I applaud this episode. It is 100% informative!

Great stuff, Pat.

We’re trawler people right out of the chute, based on limited experience before choosing that route. Your experience-based review of the pros and cons adds to my confidence that we made the right decision for our lifestyle.

See you on the water.

Onward! – Guy

Fellow trawler guy and Wanderer Financial fan 🙂

2922 fall/winter

What blue water sailing trawlers are available for sail

Grand Banks, Nordhavn, Kadey Krogen, and many others. Really just comes down to your budget.

I actually went to the US powerboat show in Annapolis this year. There are surprisingly few blue water powerboats that are CE A rated vessels. Most do not have the range to cross oceans. One broker at the show told me “If you want to take your yacht to Europe or even Bermuda, most likely they will be shipped.

Now at the sailboat show the next weekend, boats as small as 35′ are CE A rated vessels.

More about the CE certifications and categories can be found here: https://www.beneteau.com/us/page-actualite/what-ce-certification-means-boat-buyers

Interesting. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks for this very well thought out comparison. We’re going to make the transition to a trawler after our land stint refilling the cruising kitty and I really value your opinions on the subject. Now to find the right boat…

Deb SV Kintala

Thank you so much very good and honest opinions !!!!! Good read !!!!! Thank you !!!!!

Very well done article appreciate your experiences and words for us looking and pondering what the heck to do ??‍♀️

right you are! give me a trawler everytime! so much so, I am building one….wooohooo! 32 x 10 x 3 aft cabin, canopied over the front, perkins 4-236. Oyster lugger looking lil thing! for me the “process” is as enjoyable as the “cruising”. however, I am a commercial boat captain…so, i get my fix every other 21 days, ha!

Again, goodonyas! Having said this before, cruising kids have the best perspective of the world, surroundings and self!

I agree that your current boat is best suited for your needs. However, you can still cross oceans with yacht moving companies. Ship your boat from Florida to Europe for an entirely different adventure including the Med and all the canals traversing the continent…

For sure you can! There are even a few Grand Banks for sale over there right now.

Would not having the stabilizers change your opinion? What’s stabilizer maintenance cost look like? We have a hard -chine American Tug without stabilizers and so far haven’t felt their lack.

Spend a few more bucks and buy a nordhaven and go anywhere

A few more bucks?! The similar size 43 Nordhavn lowest used boat for sale is $499k, a 40′ $359k. For us that would have meant many more years not going anywhere, just working. The comparison between our older trawler and a Nordhavn are not even in the same ballpark. Imho.

Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge.

Excellent article, Pat. I don’t think there are too many others who even possess your history of cat, mono and trawler ownership, along with actual experience on the water in so many different circumstances. All that, and your fine writing style make for a compelliing and well-reasoned comparison of the various hull-forms’ virtues and drawbacks.

Of course, you COULD cross oceans with the GB by employing one of the float-on, float-off yacht transport companies. 🙂

I did see one minor error: Either the spinnaker halyard you were referring to in your cost comparison was only 100′ and not 150′, or the actual cost was $375, not $250 (at $2.50/ft.). Other than that, I’d say this article is ready for Cruising World!

If a person can afford a 50 foot, +/-, catamaran, would that be the safest way for island cruising? Thanks

We don’t compare safety. Everyone is different on what they feel is safe.

Congrat’s. A fair and even-handed review. The only thing I might add is that a bad day on a mono-hull sailboat beats a good day at the office– hands down. Get out there on the water . . . whatever it takes. 🙂

Fantastic article. You are waaaaay more accomplished than I am in terms of distance traveled and experience, but we owned a 37ft monohull for 7 year’s and just switched to a GB 42 Europa and couldn’t be happier. Endless space, stability, convenience, speed, comfort and more. We’re not stabilized through and while it’s a pricey thing to add, I think we may take the leap soon.

Thanks for writing this!

You showed the kid’s bedroom. What does yours look like?m

Hi Maureen, we have the forward cabin. Here are some photos.

https://www.bumfuzzle.com/so-much-water/

Great article with lots of good pros and cons. What do think about a PowerCat? There seem to be a few out there these days in the 40′ range. Still have the beam problem at marinas, but lots of the benefits of the trawler. Been a sailor and was thinking of a sail cat, but recently starting considering going power with no mast, since that would make the ICW easier! Starting to realize I just really like spending time on the water – power or sail.

Thanks for taking the time to post this. We are a few years from ‘retirement’ and are pretty close to pulling the trigger on boat to explore with. I have done, exhaustive research between mono and multi hull sailboats and trawlers. I always come back to the trawler. My current internal debate is between single and multi engine. While every fiber of my body screams multi engine- there are lots and lots of single engine trawlers. We are looking at the Nordhavn, Selene, Fleming, Inace type stuff. So there are options for both single and multi engine in the range of boats we are looking at. Did the single / multi engine engine part play a part in your deciding on your boat? I see the downside, less range, more upkeep. I know some of the boats have get home motors. I really like 2 motors to maneuver, but hydraulic bow and stern thrusters can solve this. I also appreciate the opinion of someone that is not trying to sell me something. Thanks again for taking the time to post!

Great article and refreshingly honest. At heart I believe I’m a sailor, but in truth, I have found the wind to be in one of 3 permanent states: Too little, too much or blowing right on the nose! So I’ve sold the 45′ Island Packet and am moving to power.

BUT – what are your thoughts on a power cat? Lightweight, fast when you need it, stable, lots of space. More economical than a trawler. Would love to hear your thoughts. If you can shoot me an e-mail, great!

I think power cats are the future of cruising. I haven’t owned one yet, so I have no basis for my opinions, but you can be sure that when I do get one I’ll write all about it for the next article. Honestly, I’m not sure what one could argue to be a downside of a powercat. Range, maybe? Looks?

Thanks, PT. Maybe we’ll give it a try! Everything has a trade off, right?

Best, Terry.

Great read. My son loves your blog. We live on a 42ft Kadey Krogen with stabs. Our range is more like 2200 but slower than you. Love our flopper stopper for anchorages that roll. Lots here in Eadtern Caribbean where those monohulls rock. Keep up the great stuff. You inspire the next generation of boaters

Great article based on so much experience you have! We learn from you and others and last year bought a 50’ powercat that is ocean capable (2400nm range), has a beam less than a third of length so shouldn’t be paying extra for marinas, is aluminium so strong, and was less than $110,000 in good (not perfect, but good) condition. We think we have a perfect vessel for us, and your writings just reinforce it – thank you for sharing. Maybe in the future we can similarly share the experiences once we have had them.

Oh, and I have already bought your travel book so when we finally get time aboard in about three weeks I’ll have something to read 🙂

Also, what’s your feeling about electric boats? We’re planning down the track on a parallel hybrid since our diesels are in great condition, supplemented by solar and with a DC genset for longer travel – like your co-authors’ recent video on Top Secret although not to that expense!

Blasphemer! 😉

Hi Ali and Pat, We met you way back in 2007 in Ft. Lauderdale when we were cruising in our Catalina ’36 and you were just returning from your round the world tour in your catamaran. We are in the process of trading our sailboat in on a Grand Banks 36′. We are in the “old sailors” group, but we’re looking forward to many more years on the water in a trawler versus the sailboat. We loved our Cool Breeze, but one thing you forgot to mention in your comparison is that sailing does require a good bit of physical activity and ability to navigate the small spaces, thus the reason that many long time sailors cross over to a trawler.

Interesting! We’re only 7 months into cruising and teaching ourselves to sail and I can already see why we meet so many old salty sailors turning toward the power boats. We never spent enough time with sailor to be disillusioned about how much time we spend with sails up vs not… so don’t feel like we have to put on any type of show there. For us, it seems there are only two major winning points to the (sailing) catamaran over the trawler or power cat: – the amount of deck/outdoor space (mostly because we never seem to go ashore or leave the boat) – that sound… y’know, that moment where you turn the engines off and everything goes flat and silent. Thats still the best part of any passage/crossing. As soon as that starts growing old – I think we’ll be right behind you on the powerboat train. 😉

Thanks for the write up. Hope our wakes cross again soon!

Very nice article – thanks. But this article is really a comparison of the boats you’ve had. My Kadey-Krogen can cross oceans on a lot less fuel than your GB. And it has fin stabilizers so I agree completely with the added comfort you mention. But to your point, the Krogen, like a Nordhavn, is a more expensive proposition (but maybe only double-ish or more). And those stabilizers are not cheap to keep. I paid $13k doing a catastrophic fix to mine about a year after we bought our 30 year old boat. I am rambling here because it looks like people are needing context… Yes, power cats are also an excellent choice. Check out the Aspen Powercat if you want one that isn’t too wide for a marina. But now I’m selling, so I will stop.

Thanks again for a very honest article! @boatguybill

Thanks, Bill, yes it is a comparison of the boats I’ve had. I find it not very useful to compare things I know nothing about.

Great article. But you run a 42 ft yacht on $10/ day fuel? Doesn’t seem possible. I spend more on a ski boat and my car.

We do drop the anchor now and then. We’re liveaboard cruisers not delivery captains.

$10/day is 3.3 gallons/day is 9.9 mi/day – to me. So when out cruising, yeah that seems about right. Some days are 30-40 miles. Other days are zero, of course. But I appreciate your skepticism. 🙂

We actually have a 46’ GB 1997 without stabilizers (quoted them but $60k-$70k project) and we are considering to sell and buy a newer sail cat, totally agree on those two reasons plus less dependency on a generator (easier to have more solar capacity), our distances are relatively short, we usually boat between Puerto Rico, Vieques, USVI & BVI’s, appreciate the shared experiences posted here, happy boating!

Yes, we’re still amazed that a previous owner installed the Naiad stabilizer system on this boat and then did virtually zero miles and sold the boat two years later, basically eating the entire cost of the upgrade in the process. Ouch.

Your assertion that sailors motor 90% of the time is new to me. I’ve windsurfed, sailed beach cats, and sailed a 32 ft Hunter around the Bahamas for a couple weeks. So I’m not some great yachtsman. I don’t have the patience to sail at 5knts. I was figuring I wanted a multi hull capable of 15 to 20 knots to sail the Bahamas and then the islands. Maybe a trimaran that can fold up to get in a marina. 32 to 40 ft. Just for me and a girlfriend. Does not need to be fancy. I figured sail would be cheaper than power. Thoughts from anybody are appreciated.

Sailing is only cheaper than power propulsion in that the wind is free, while fuel isn’t. But everything involved with engineering a way of capturing that free resource – mast or masts, sails, line and all the associated ways of handling it, maintenance, etc. – are far from free. And yes, sailing vessels typically are propelled forward a majority of the time, reportedly, by use of the “iron genny” more often than sails.

That’s often because the wind doesn’t cooperate with someone’s plans – have you ever noticed that it always seems to blow from the direction you’re headed? 🙂 And the wind is often blowing too little or too much – that sweet spot in the groove is highly elusive and inconsistent. Sure, when everything’s just right sailing is magical. Too bad that happens so infrequently.

I wouldn’t try to dissuade you from pursuing your travel dreams as you’ve envisioned, Sean, and sailing around the Bahamas and the Caribbean islands can be idyllic. Still, you’d be well-served, I believe, if you gather as much info as you can in advance of committing too much time, money and effort to a single way of making those dreams a reality. The learning curve can be both steep and expensive.

His assertion, however unfriendly (or un-ego-centric)… is fairly accurate.

We also had no idea before moving onto a boat that we would spend so much time motoring (in our sailing cat) after leaving the Bahamas and continuing southward… and I low that we actually sailed many a crossing that others motored to avoid high winds and seas…

It may not be friendly or positive, but the simple fact is… that most people talk about the fastest speed of their boat rather than the true average speed, and most don’t choose to leave a safe anchorage on days that could provide high speeds because high winds also typically mean a less smooth crossing.

So once you’re underway and living aboard the only speed that truly matters is the low or average speed under low to normal winds… not what the boat can/could potentially do or might possibly do under the highest possible conditions (that you’re unlikely to leave under with your home, family, kids in tow)…

so if you don’t have “the patience to sail at 5knots” you probably also don’t have the patience to actually live aboard and sail everywhere you’re about to go… which means you’re actually advocating for the trawler or power cat.. and good on you if that’s your preference… but somehow I don’t think that was the intent of your response…

Thanks. I definitely wont be sailing in a gale.

Well this launched three months ago and is still enticing comments. Thanks again for doing this, it has been enjoyable.

Yes it is getting new reads as our friends, Jason and Nikki, shared it on their recent post. https://www.gonewiththewynns.com/cat-mono-price-performance

Sounds like it was a last ditch attempt to get a companion to go with him but she would not even try!

Hi Pat and Ali,

I’d missed his post and saw the reference to it on the Gonewiththewynns YouTube blog. It s a great piece of writing and has helped to confirm my assumptions, so many thanks! It’s always enjoyable to see your posts. All the best.

I’d missed his post and was directed to it from watching Gonewiththewynns YouTube . Thanks, it’s a great piece of writing and it’s good to get such a comparison, it cements my thoughts on what I need to consider. I continue to enjoy your blogs , all the best!

Anybody ever thought about touring the islands using a ground effect seaplane?

As an old former sailor, I’m curious on how the boat was named “Bumfuzzel?

Bumfuzzle definition: To be confused, perplexed, or flustered or to cause confusion. At the age of 28, we were confused on what to do with our life. Things were going good, we had some money in the bank – buy a house in the ‘burbs? start a family like all our friends? or….travel! So we came up with a plan to buy a boat and make some memories – at first it was to be for a year…that all changed. Plus it is one word, easy to remember, and no-one else would ever name their boat that! 🙂

Very informative. We are getting ready for a full time adventure. I’ve always wanted to live on the water, trawler seems ideal for us. We’ve done the airstream and don’t want to trailer anything anymore. My husband thinks a small RV would be more economical than the trawler, any thoughts on that? Two totally different experiences, I’m fine with either, but just looking at cost, what’s your take. Thanks, have loved following you since the very beginning.

I expect a land based RV would be a lot cheaper to run that a trawler in the water. I only know boats but they require constant maintainance and suffer from corrosion issues in a saltwater environment. On cost alone RV has to be cheaper hands down . But is it the same experience?! Watch ‘gone with the wynns’ who transitioned from 6 yrs in RV to sailboat life and are already in the pacific after about 3? Yrs. they are exceptional people but despite all the extra work they much prefer cruising on a yacht!

Hmmm, nice analysis from someone who had owned all 3 boats discussed…

This has opened my eyes. How do these boats stack up in regards to crews? Which boat is easier to manage single handed, with 2, with 4 or more.

As I get older, the inability to do major ocean passages is less of an issue. I’m more of an island hopper/costal creeper now.

This couple hundred grand burning a hole in my pocket hurts!!! Ouch, it hurts!!! Help! 😉

Interesting read, since I own a catamaran. Have sailed it many thousands of miles and even cross the Atlantic singlehanded, but don’t care to describe myself as a ‘sailor’ i’ve frequently bemoaned the poor motoring speeds, wind in the wrong direction, lack of wind, choppy seas etc..

I would love a trawler, but unless it could at least cross the Atlantic, then for me it’s out of the question. You state only a small fraction of people cross oceans. That is still probably thousands of sailboats a year.

Any electric trawler with big generator and lots of solar, might work, but going back to pure fossil boat in these times could be considered a backwards step for many.

The cost of the fuel is also not so inconsequential. In Europe, and here in some of the islands of the Caribbean, diesel can be €1.45 per litre. Regardless of the cost of rigging (which I did replace at €3,500, and a sail at €1,500) not many people could happily shell out hundreds or thousands up front each time they stop.

Been down almost the same route. Small runabout, Small sail boat, Bigger sail boat, Even bigger sail boat, Floating Hotel Sailboat (Aft Cabin Center Cockpit) —then we slipped –Grand Banks 42. We had traveled up & Down the US East Coast and the Keys and West Coast of FL with the last sail boat after retiring. Found sailing to be too much work and not much sailing anyhow in Florida–also too hot to be outdoors. Bought the GB brought it back to NewEngland-traveled the “East-Coast Little Loop–visited Erie Canal, Great Lakes and Rideau Canal Canada. Had a great time for 8 years. But alas the work on an older GB 42 with twin John Deere engines, extensive systems of electronics, plumbing, HVAC and miles of Teak beautiful but labor and cost intensive; forced a realization of $$$, age and work and the boat had to go. We now have a Class B, MB Sprinter RV and traveling the inside of the country. Anchoring ? Storms? Dinner? there’s always a Holiday Inn!!! That said were looking for a Pocket Cruiser like a Rosborough for inland cruising and towable behind the RV. After all were only in our late 70’s

“Nordhavn” produces trawlers that are proven to be excellent ocean crossing vessels with a range of 3000nm and more.

I thought I was pretty clear that this article is regarding boats in a certain price range. I doubt anyone shopping the Nordhavn market are reading an article debating trawler vs sail.

Valid retort.

So I am researching boats to purchase as our last child leaves the home soon. While you might have put a price in the first post, I actually went back to read that part, it is the concepts that are really most relevant. Crossing the ocean was in my first list of things I ‘needed’ from my trawler, but I soon learned even in the ‘Nordhavn’ people use bladders. I like so many parts of sailing, but also like the freedom in the trawler of not waiting on winds, or being able to go any direction. I research to see if there is a boat that will meet my trawler needs, and do the great loop which has been a bucket list item for a decade now. Do we get a boat with fin or gyro stabilization. What is the process of hinging a radar arch, or dry stack. To this article, blog, post… From the people that have done sail and trawler- why? The differences? Do I rethink and do a motor sailor? Do I spend $200,000 or $900,000- or where in the middle. In my life, what does my wife need to boat to do… maybe I need fin and gyro stabilization 🙂 Pat- thank you for putting the time into your post. I will attest people looking at Nordhavns are reading your post, and learning from it. Will we trawler, sail or motor-sail… I do not know yet. My list of ‘needs’ changes as I learn more. Anyway- thanks for letting me into your story, your thoughts, your experiences…

Thanks, Jim. Good luck in the search.

Jim, the boat for crossing oceans is quite a different boat than the one for doing the great loop. I can highly recommend the Great Loop but you certainly don’t need a 200K boat for that. Try an old 34′ mainship for that and go to the Bahamas in the same boat. Then, if you’re still willing to cross oceans, go upscale.

For the loop you won’t need fins or gyro if you don’t mind waiting at anchor or in the marina for a weather window.

My wife made a blog: https://thewanderingstar.blog/

Dirk, In my research that is about what I have learned. Part of what drives this is my wife would like certain, comforts… So I suspect we will be in something pretty new, pretty updated etc. Things like- walk around big beds, no bow beds for the master, enough room for our family to jump in and out, and we have 4 kids, one with a husband. She also wants friends along for extended periods of time. Big brings her more comfort. I suspect we will be in the 50+ range. Selene 54, or 53 with twin screws, or the Nordhavn 52, 55 or 57, or maybe a Marlow. I look forward to reading your wife’s blog!

I hear ya. That’s how we ended up with a 40′ Mainship with a walk around queen bed.

FWIW, imho, anything over about 45′ is just too big for the loop.

Feel free to email me.

I know this is an old post, but it was just what I needed to read. I’ve been a lifelong sailor, raced sailboats, did some light cruising, but never had the time, between career and kids, to take a “long trip” a round the world adventure that I wanted to to. I dreamed, sure enough, but never had the time or even the support (first wife hated sailing).

I remarried late, to a go-fast powerboat girl (38 Scarab, 48′ custom) who also had no time for cruising or “just messing about in boats”, but who really loved the water, as did her kids.

I kept my small “divorce” sailboat, but it’s set up for racing and while we enjoy it, it’s too small for more than daysailing. We also planned on moving up when it was time, but wasn’t sure as to what might work best for us. We are both getting to that empty nest age, when we start thinking about the next stage. We couldn’t even make up our minds about what the next boat would be. Express Cruiser (ugh, IMO), catamaran, or sailboat, or heaven-forbid, trawler?

We spoke with a good broker (friend) who asked us some important questions, some of them you went over in your piece. How much cruising will we do? How far? How much time? In the end, we realized that, even retired, between our businesses and kids, , at first, to coastwise trips of a few hundred miles, a few weeks to a few months, at most. My wife grew up going to the Bahamas. She still has friends there. How could we do such a trip from Texas in a “powerboat” even if we hopped down the coast? I assumed no powerboat of any sort was an option for island hopping.

Trawlers were low on the list. I thought of “trawlers” as “I’m too old to sail” boats and my wife thought of them as “too slow, to uncool to go, boats”. You gave us a different perspective. So did our broker, who now has us looking at modern trawlers. Thanks for the info and the backup to our decision.

If your plans only include the Caribbean then I assure you that you will be happy with the choice of a trawler. Congrats on coming to the right decision before it’s too late. 🙂

Came across your article. Well written. We have just completed what will be our last Gulf of Mexico crossing aboard our Catalina 42. It will be our last crossing because after 7 years of wonderful adventures, we’re moving to a trawler. A GB46 has caught our eye…..but, it’s not stabilized, as are most trawlers in our budget. The after market project appears unlikely. Overall, we would be at anchor more than at sea. Based upon your experience, if your GB42 did not have stabilizers, how much of your assessment would have changed? Thanks

We’re anchored in the USVI right next to friends on a GB42 w/o stabilizers and our experiences are entirely different. Frankly, if we didn’t have stabilizers on the GB I don’t think we’d be anywhere near as happy. I’d keep searching, stabilizers do not seem to retain much, if any, value in resale. Find a boat that has them already.

I’ve been selling Kadey Krogen for seven years now and can say with pretty good certainty that stabilizers add about $20k to the resale value of a Krogen. They cost about $55k to install at last inquiry. I have them on my Krogen and bought it specifically for this (and other) features. I had it on my requirements list a lot because I plan to go from Seattle to the Sea of Cortez upon retirement. And I don’t see making that trip without them.

So cool to learn about you and share your adventures. We have a GB42 woodie built in 1968 (hull 55). We cruise the Atlantic maritimes so it’s unlikely our wakes will cross any time soon, but who knows!

Loved seeing the beautiful interior shots and comparing with ours. We haven’t seen many others.

Only thing I’d add is that a sailboat with good sailing performance especially in light air can make a huge difference in passage making. Not only do we sail more than most in our vintage Tartan 40, but we can also motorsail at 6-7 knots at a fuel sipping 1200RPM in zephyrs. But, maybe most significantly is it’s worth getting the powerplant right in a sailboat. We easily cruise at 7+ knots at a reasonable 1gph which closes the gap on the trawler. No way we come close in comfort, space, storage, of course. I’m jealous. Helpful to know about the stabilizers in case I every jump

I love the life you guys have made! I am looking at a 1973 49′ Grand Banks Alaskan, to live aboard in a marina while we still work in California, 2 boys, 6 and 2 years old. The boat hasn’t been pulled out of the water since 2007, which seems crazy long to me. But down below I pasted the specifics that were done. I’m not sure if you guys are in the habit of giving advice, but if so, does this seem too long to have not pulled the boat out? or do you think it could still be a solid boat?

Thanks so much, I really enjoy seeing what you guys do!!

In 2000 the boatyard wooded the hull (stripped off all the paint) and checked the fasteners (solid bronze 2” or maybe 2 1/2”). They were impressed with them. They brought it back up with a really good primer and Sterling Linear Polyurethane (LP) as the white topcoat and blue bootstripe along the waterline and on the stack.

-In 2007 the boatyard did the topsides with Sterling LP as well. Areas that are plywood have not held up as well as the hull, which is full thickness 1” Honduran mahogany. During that round, I went after all areas with dry rot and used Smith’s penetrating epoxy, which in essence displaces all damp wood with epoxy, killing the dry rot. I tell people this boat is 90% wood and 10% epoxy in a jovial fashion, although not that much, maybe 2%, it has made a significant difference in how things have lasted. After all of the penetration and fillers where needed were in place and the surface ready for primer and paint, I would again treat with the penetrating epoxy as a first line of defense barrier. During this time I also put a router round on all of the hard edges of the lumber supporting the walk around and added AB epoxy on the inside angles to make it way easier to clean. It has held up really well. Prior I had noticed on all of the hard edges the paint would crack before I rounded them, and mold would sit in the tight right angled corners, so the AB used as a fairing compound really helps with that as well.

Hi Meagan, Unfortunately I know less than nothing about wooden boats. Personally, they aren’t a headache I’d be interested in taking on, especially a boat of that size. But that’s an individual choice. I don’t know just how hands on you all are or if you have experience with this sort of thing. However, best of luck to you with whatever boat you choose. It’s a great life indeed.

Trawlers are less likely to be hit by lightning strikes than sailboats. An analysis of 10 years of lightning claims reveals which boats are most at risk. The probability of a lightning strike by type of boat are as followed.

(chances per 1000) 1. Multihull sailboats 6.9 2. Monohull sailboats 3.8 3. Trawler/Motoryacht 1.5

Loved your book and loved this article. Very informative. Thank you!

The Liveaboard Trawler: Is It the Best Boat for Your Nautical Life?

Have you ever considered living aboard a boat? Those marine biologists, undercover detectives and private investigators of movies and '80s TV make it look so cool.

Whether you’re in San Diego, Seattle, Vancouver, Miami or some other place, deciding to live aboard your boat can be confusing, stressful and exciting all at the same time. We’ve all imagined what it would be like to live aboard those luxury sailboats, houseboats and mega yachts (come on, you can admit it).

But what is it really like?

Should you dive into the liveaboard life?

And is a trawler—a popular liveaboard boat choice— the right boat for you ?

Maybe you’re planning an extended trip like the Great Loop, a partial ICW excursion or a cruise through the Caribbean. Or maybe you’re considering a permanent move.

Either way, check out some of the pros and cons to consider when deciding to make the jump into a liveaboard trawler.

What Is a Liveaboard Trawler?

First of all, what exactly is a trawler? A trawler is a rugged motor boat that's built for long-distance traveling and deep sea conditions. They usually have wide beams and displacement hulls with single or twin engines. They’re often used as fishing boats.

Advantages of a Liveaboard Trawler

For the purpose of this discussion, and your time, I’ll be comparing the liveaboard trawler to a liveaboard sailboat. I can get kind of wordy, and I’m sure you don’t want to read a novel right now. Save that for the back deck of the boat on a cool breezy evening.

Wider hulls allow for roomier interiors.

The wider hulls of a trawler make for roomy interiors, bigger kitchens, more spacious sleeping quarters and just more room all around for the boat's gear , anchors , fenders , your gear and gadgets and yourself (and maybe a pet or two).

If you’re going to be living aboard this boat with other people, you probably don’t want to be bumping into each other all the time. On the other hand, maybe you do. To each his own.

More headroom and space add comfort.

The comfort factor goes along with the space factor. Trawlers have more headroom below deck and lots of space on deck for entertaining. They usually have two bathrooms, which can be a major blessing when traveling with kids or teenagers. Especially teenagers.

Trawlers have easy accessibility

Getting in and out of the boat is much easier on a trawler.

Trawlers are more stable than some boats.

The hard chines of trawlers make them more stable to sleep on than the rounded chines of a sailboat. While a little bit of rocking isn’t so bad, you might not get any sleep if the conditions are rough.

You also won’t have to deal with your plates and drinks sliding off of the table. Stable tables are the best kind when it comes to that plate of seafood or frosty beverage. Cup holders and rod holder cutting boards come in handy on these occasions.

Less draft is better for shallow waters.

Trawlers have less draft than other boats, especially sailboats, which gives more variety for anchorages and navigating shallow water. The waterways in the Florida Keys can turn shallow before you even realize it.

Enjoy worry-free bridge clearance.

Depending on the height of the sails and the bridge, sailboats either have to wait for drawbridges to open or they have to find another way around. There are many bridges along the ICW that trawlers can sail under with no problem.

Better for time management purposes.

As mentioned above, waiting for a drawbridge can significantly cut down on your time frame. If you need to be somewhere at a certain time, trawlers are more reliable for planning purposes than sailboats.

Also, sailboats have that tricky little thing about needing wind. You can't really make a reservation for wind. But if you can, I would love to know your secrets and contact information.

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Disadvantages of a Liveaboard Trawler

As with anything, when there are advantages, there will also be disadvantages. Things like speed, noise and maintenance may not be a big deal to some, but they may be to others. It's always good to consider both sides of the subject.

Trawlers are slow.

Most trawlers go about six to seven knots as opposed to a sailboat that has the wind on its side.

Engines are noisy.

When underway, the boat engines are always running (otherwise you’re on a sailboat or you need maintenance).

Trawlers consume lots of fuel.

Trawlers obviously burn more fuel than sailboats. Even if the sailboat has an engine , wind power is free for the taking when you so choose.

Trawlers need more maintenance.

There are more things that can go wrong or break on a trawler, such as electronics, propellers and engines. The physical size of a trawler necessitates more boat soap , cleaning products and routine maintenance than a sailboat.

Trawlers are harder to handle in bad weather.

Surprisingly, trawlers are harder to handle in rough conditions . Where sailboats can swiftly cut through the water, trawlers can get bogged down.

Sailboats have the advantage of having both sails and an engine, whereas the trawler has just the one mode of motion (the engine).

Types of Liveaboard Trawlers

Albin 48 North Sea Cutter
Beneteau Swift Trawler
Mainship 430 Trawler
Nordhavn 46’
Ocean Alexander

Ways to Test the Liveaboard Trawler Waters

Wrangle an invitation from a trawler-owning friend. You bring the beer, and I bet they’ll agree in a heartbeat.
If you already own a trawler or other boat equipped for overnight stays, spend a weekend on it .
Book a Boatsetter boat rental . You usually can’t take the boat out, but it’s a way to gauge your interest. I recently did this exact thing and spent a couple of nights aboard a 35-foot Chris Craft Catalina. While I enjoyed the stay, I came to the conclusion that this particular boat’s layout wouldn't work for more than one or two people for an extended time.

Peek Into the Liveaboard Trawler Life

Want to see how real live boaters are experiencing the liveaboard life? Blogs , vlogs and websites are great outlets to get tips on living aboard a trawler.

Check out some of these social channels to see and read about how others are faring. It’s also a nice way to get tips and recommendations on marine products. And you thought the internet was only good for cat videos and cute baby pictures.

Blue Turtle Trawler is the adventure blog of Kim, Randy and Corey aboard their 40-foot trawler. They call southwest Florida their home. You can read all about their voyages to the Dry Tortugas, Sanibel Island, the Florida Keys and many others as well as posts on moving to new marinas, replacing marine air conditioners and teak doors , painting hulls and performing annual maintenance.

Drift Away covers Pam and Dave’s journey aboard their 46-foot Cheoy Lee (named Drift Away). They started cruising in 2011. They aren't currently cruising, and have actually sold Drift Away, but the stories are still there and Dave posts occasionally about writing books and boating blogs. Past posts have included bilge issues , problems with buzzards and boating on the St. John’s River, the ICW and Kerr Lake.

PassageMaker offers a cruising lifestyle section written by boaters for boaters. Real boaters share their experiences of the cruising and liveaboard life with posts on maintenance, diving advice, boat reviews, events and destinations.

Tula’s Endless Summer on YouTube is the chronicle of two boaters who decided they didn’t want to wait until they were 60 to retire. With a motto of “Work Hard, Play Hard," they travel and live aboard their trawler while working and managing their careers.

Boat Fam on YouTube is about a family of four that lived aboard a 43-foot trawler—though they've recently sold the boat and stopped making new videos. Both parents worked from home, which was their boat in this case. Videos and blog posts include boat product recommendations, engine and generator issues, homeschooling aboard a boat and neat nature experiences.

choosing a selection results in a full page refresh

Choosing the right liveaboard boat

We’ve received many inquiries from our blog about choosing the right liveaboard boat. Folks have many questions ranging from style of boat, length of boat and horsepower to interior layout and aesthetics. I decided to post our experience with choosing Blue Turtle and what we initially looked for versus what we might have done differently today. First though, I want to point out that we are liveaboard cruisers, which mean we liveaboard our boat in a marina, but we also cruise places rather frequently (at least once a month). This post is about liveaboard boats that are fit for cruising. If you want to liveaboard but never plan to leave the dock, you can really choose any type of boat that suits your space and aesthetic needs. Houseboats would be the way to go as they offer the most space, but they are more fit for lake cruising than coastal cruising.

25 thoughts on “Choosing the right liveaboard boat”

i wont to thank you for all that info it helps to find a right boat for people that do not know boats just starting out ….

Thanks Royal. We didn’t know much starting out even though we had the advantage of our parents living aboard. We hope this write up is useful to those starting out.

especially when the boat mentioned starts out at 500K!

Many thanks for taking the time to write this! Very helpful. My wife and I might be looking for a liveaboard in FL in a few years.

Hope this post helps a little bit. Please let us know if you have any questions. We’ll be glad to answer them 🙂

Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge and experiences. You answered all my questions and have probably saved me a lot of time and headaches. Truly appreciated!

So glad this helps! Let us know if you have any more questions.

recently found your blog and FB. thank You for the information you are supplying us newbee’s A little more detail would be very helpful when you post, as we are making the leap into a trawler/cruiser. this coming spring. We’ve been reading, looking at thousands of boats online and in person, took my boating course last summer and even went out on lake erie a few times. Yes we are new to boats no one we know owns one. Maybe I’m post a few questions each day lol you speak about you needed a trawler to cruise the keys main issue is fuel. how much fuel do you use and what is the distance. We are looking in your area as a beginning base and love the keys. Also we have a dog who does he/she handle long trips and how to you allow him to go to the bathroom? aa big litter box? Are you considering solar to run you boats dc I know your fridge is AC . If you break down engine wise do you have a kicker motor onboard ? thanks for today Giligan

Sorry for the late reply Giligan but I’ll post our answers in case it helps someone else.

“You speak about you needed a trawler to cruise the keys main issue is fuel.” Actually you can cruise the Keys in a sailboat or trawler. We only mention that when cruising to the Dry Tortugas, it’s nice to have a trawler for the extra fuel it requires to visit dive and fishing spots once you get there. Many sailboats and smaller boats cruise there but they would have to carry extra fuel in order to do any additional dive/fishing cruising once you are there since there is no fuel available in the Dry Tortugas.

“Also we have a dog who does he/she handle long trips and how to you allow him to go to the bathroom? a big litter box?” We trained our dog as a puppy to go on a potty patch. See our article “Living aboard with a boat dog” ( https://blueturtlecruising.com/living-aboard-with-boat-dog/ ).

“Are you considering solar to run you boats dc I know your fridge is AC?” No, we have an invert system which runs our fridge while away from the dock. The generator then charges to the inverter batteries.

“If you break down engine wise do you have a kicker motor onboard?” No we do not. Randy has become quite the mechanic at troubleshooting most engine issues if we break down. In rare cases he can’t solve it or we don’t have a part, there’s always Sea Tow. We’ve only been towed 2 times in almost 8 years and the issue was fuel, not the engine. Even if we had 2 engines we still would have had the same issue.

Hope this helps!

Loved reading about your boat! That’s what we’re planning to do

Thanks Loretta! Hope we can provide some useful info to you from time to time. If you have any questions feel free to ask.

We’almost ready to make the jump. Sold the Rentals, House is for sale, we both had great boss’s who are friends so they laid us off so we can collect unemployment (great friends) , Put in a bid for a GB 36 keeping our fingers crossed…. See you hopefully at the Fest

I agree that you would want to consider what type of boat you have when choosing a motor. It would be good to consider if it is a sail or a motorboat as well. My brother wants to get a boat, so he’ll have to consider the type before he buys it.

Put me on your mailing list.

I have been told by y sailing friends that trawlers roll like crazy offshore and everybody gets sick. What is it like offshore? Thanks.

It’s no different than any boat in big seas. Otherwise our trawler is very stable in normal seas and no one has been sick in the six years cruising (knocks on wood).

Our biggest challenge right now is deciding where to liveaboard! Thinking North Carolina or Alabama but really have no clue how to decide. I do know we will choose a houseboat. Any tips on picking a location?

I would research marinas in areas of interest and call to get rates, availability, etc. Look for areas that have close proximity to shopping, parks, and other areas of interest. You could also schedule a trip to visit a few favorite spots to check out the marinas and get a feel for the community. Hope this helps.

Kim, thank you for being available, and helpful. I’ve been boating all my life, Ohio and Pensacola. 7 knot maximum, always, makes me nervous. Long crossings, storms, emergencies included. Have you wished you could go faster very often? Benetau’s swift trawler can supposedly do both well, but maybe not as economically. Any thoughts? Thank you, Steve

A swift trawler would be the best of both worlds but I imagine fuel costs would be higher. If your budget allows for purchasing one and the additional fuel that would be ideal. We’ve only been in a few storms and have been ok. We normally wouldn’t cruise without an ideal weather window and the afternoon showers that pop up in the afternoon around here are usually pretty quick. I think it really boils down to your budget and comfort level in the end.

Thanks for the info!

I would like to be added to your mailing list please.

You mentioned not liking the ising glass in Florida… are you saying you prefer to not have any enclosure on the fly deck? What if it rains (as it does a lot in Florida) when traveling? I thought it was a must-have… but now learning to pay attention where the people are from when taking any advice. 😉

In Florida, you can pretty much predict the afternoon showers. We have a lower helm so if we run into an afternoon thunderstorm while cruising, Randy steers from inside below on the lower helm. The ising glass, to us, ended up being a very costly ($7,000 to replace new) thing that we didn’t really need. It also constantly got battered and ripped with every tropical storm or hurricane so we decided to remove it. We realized cruising to the Keys in especially calm water that it blocks a lot of the breeze you could get without it.

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Catamaran Vs. Trawler (A Complete Comparison)

Posted on June 17, 2022

Catamarans and trawlers are two wonderful sailing vessels for your holiday. While they are both wonderful boats, they have different characteristics that make them better for different purposes.

I’m not here to tell you to choose one over the other, but rather to give you an in-depth look at both vessels so you can make an informed decision.

A catamaran is a two-hulled sailboat that you can power by either a sailor or a propeller (two diesel engines). Trawlers, on the other hand, are single-hulled, diesel-powered displacement boats. Even if trawlers are more adept at loading, cats are more efficient and reliable.

So, what’s the difference between the two, and which one should you pick?

Catamarans Vs. Trawlers

As mentioned earlier, we’re going to deep dive into both vessel types. Let’s first look at what each vessel is and does.

Catamarans Defined

There are two hulls on a catamaran , and they are parallel to one another.

With its massive base of two evenly sized hulls, it is more robust than a monohull.

Most people utilize them for recreational purposes, such as a vacation or a fishing excursion.

Trawlers Defined

Boats known as trawlers are designed for long-distance travel and, in some cases, permanent habitation on board. Trawlers began their beginnings as commercial fishing vessels like trawlers.

Nowadays, trawlers are equipped with all the comforts of home, and you may find many trawlers that will treat you like royalty.

Many people utilize trawlers to cruise from one port to another for long periods for the best trawler to live aboard and then relocate is also common.

Catamarans Vs. Trawlers: Pros

Catamarans are nimble, and they go at high speeds . This is because they have greater water longer than a typical monohull. – They’re also a lot lighter because they don’t have heavy lead keels. 15 knots is the maximum speed of most cruising cats.

New performance catamarans, on the other hand, emphasize speed over space in their structural construction. In terms of speed, monohulls can travel 25–50 percent faster than their contemporaries.

These boats are intriguing because of their exceptional performance. Nevertheless, they are slowed down by heavyweights. An overworked cat will take much longer to complete tasks.

Catamarans are sturdily flat platforms when anchored at sea. Unlike monohulls, cats don’t have a keel that’s ballasted, therefore they rely on their wide beam for stability.

With its flat surface and natural stability, a cat is an excellent choice for a family on the hunt for maximum convenience while on vacation. Because divers can readily get their gear on, jump into, and depart the water, making cats ideal for scuba diving vacations.

Huge vessels with a lot of space are known as catamarans. I like that we can set up dining and lounge areas in the space between the two boats’ hulls. The kitchen is usually state-of-the-art. On both decks of the yacht, there are additional spots to rest. Because of the many relaxation areas on a catamaran, guests can enjoy some privacy.

When sailing, catamarans don’t heel at all. Heeling and wave-induced movement are prevented by their broad stance on the water. Cats are equally at home at sea as they are ashore. You may have a drink on the balcony without worrying about spilling it.

As a result of the cat’s twin motors and balanced hulls, catamarans are more maneuverable than monohulls. With practice, navigating into small marinas becomes less of a challenge. Because of the catamaran’s fluid motion, it is possible to sail it alone .

Catamarans are less capable than monohulls in terms of displacement, capacity, and draft depth. You can take the cat into shallow water more safely if only a smaller portion of it is submerged. Using this method, you can anchor much nearer to the coast, where it’s much safer, secure, and pleasurable to do so.

Catamarans, with their twin-hull design, have lower hydrodynamic resistance. Since the vessels don’t require as much motor or sail power to get moving, they use less petrol. Catamarans’ operating expenses are reduced as a result.

A catamaran sinking is almost impossible. With today’s lightweight foam-based cruising catamaran, they are virtually unsinkable. Any sailor can rest easy knowing that this feature alone will keep them safe at sea.

Luxury and comfort are top priorities when designing recreational trawlers. Thus, they are equipped with elegant cabins and other amenities to achieve this end. Boats can be extremely pleasant in calm weather conditions, but when the waves are choppy, they tend to roll to one side or the other.

Since trawlers are so large, they can comfortably accommodate two or even eight people for several days. As a result, they are also able to make a permanent residence. With plenty of counter space, it’s easy to make dishes for your friends and family onboard the vessels. They have a pilothouse, staterooms, a freezer compartment, and big galleys with tons of height below decks.

There’s no need to go light when traveling on a trawler boat because there’s plenty of storage space. Both the inside and outside of the vessel are home to a helm station for a trawler’s two pilots. It’s possible to navigate the boat from within the cabin if the weather is terrible, as the flybridge offers a decent observation position. The flybridge offers spectacular river views while underway.

Trawlers, as opposed to catamarans, are designed to haul a lot of weight. The effect of this is that you may fully load your boat without having to worry about it losing performance. It’s not uncommon for trawlers to tow a large dinghy behind them.

Since they hold a large amount of fuel and a compact, fuel-efficient engine, trawlers can cruise for long distances without having to replenish their fuel tanks. Combined with the slower speed of a displacement hull and superior fuel efficiency, these boats have a longer range and more fuel efficiency.

Displacement hulls on trawlers enable them to move fast and effortlessly through the water. The bow and stern of the boat are shaped like a teardrop, while the bottom of the hull is rounded. A full-displacement hull with a ballasted bottom is good for rough seas.

As far as speed and efficiency are concerned, however, the semi-displacement semi-trawler is the way to go. Trawlers are ideal for traversing bays and large bodies of water due to their short learning curve.

You could also use them in every kind of weather because the boats are powered by an engine. If you’re worried about sailing at nighttime, a trawler can be safely controlled from inside the helm, so don’t be.

Catamarans Vs. Trawlers: Cons

A catamaran is costly to obtain or charter. It’s not uncommon for prices to be more than double what you’d pay on a boat of similar size. Cats, on the other hand, deliver quality bang for the buck thanks to their unrivaled comfort, spaciousness, and versatility. To put it another way, a catamaran sailing vacation makes economic sense.

Cats are expensive to maintain . Two rudders, hulls, engines, many sails, and rigging translate to substantial repair and maintenance costs, as something is continually breaking.

Catamarans’ marina costs are a bit on the pricier side. Sailing vessels of equivalent length are charged up to 150 percent extra at most marinas due to their size. It’s also harder to acquire room at marinas since cats demand two nearby spots. Some ports are unable to handle large catamarans. This is a serious problem.

Due to the higher need for dock spots, catamarans are widely known watercraft. As a result, given the serious lack of room, it’s a smart option to reserve the port well ahead of your arrival. Cats have a hard time going upwind when sailing.

As a result, they sail at a broader angle to the wind than monohulls. Most cats are capable of a high rate of speed when sailing on a reach. If you fall a few degrees off course, a monohull can keep up if you accelerate. This is the case, despite having to go across the greater ground.

Trawlers aren’t known for their speed. As opposed to catamarans, they travel at a more leisurely pace. Rather, they take their time and sail calmly. The boats typically go at a speed between 7 and 9 mph. However, they are capable of 12 knots if needed.

Since your trawler can’t avoid a storm, you’ll need to check up on the forecast at all times. Maintaining a trawler can be pricey.

It’s crucial to maintain cruising trawlers like our homes, as they have several luxurious amenities. The plumbing, electrical, and air-conditioning/heating systems on the boat must all be checked regularly.

Having a trawler’s full tanks can also be a big cost because of the fluctuating and uncertain gas prices. Due to repeated and constant use, trawlers also have higher repair costs than most other boats of the same size and kind.

While catamarans are more stable, trawlers tend to roll more sideways. This might happen while sailing or anchoring. Inconvenient, particularly if you’re trying to sleep. It might also be harder to control a vessel in rough weather.

The engines of trawlers can be quite noisy, which might make it difficult to sleep.

Catamarans are excellent cruising vessels for couples and families seeking a stress-free vacation. In contrast, trawlers offer all the comforts of home, making them suitable for a lengthy vacation or journey.

While both vessels have their pros and limitations, your pick could most certainly be dependent on your budget, trip plans, or personal preferences.

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sailboat v. trawler

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I am considering my first large boat-32-36 ft- that I would moor in the Seattle area and sail/motor to the San Juan islands. There are a lot of things that I like about sailboats. However I have reservations about somethings that I would appreciate hearing from the forum about. One thing to keep in mind is that my wife and daughters have never sailed and it is important that they want to go out on the boat on a regular basis. Also my sailing experience is limited to very small day sailers. 1. What I have learned is that in the PS area much of a sailboats time underway is on the engine not the sails. 2. Being in the cabin while underway can be claustrophobic with virtually no ability to enjoy the sights especially if the weather is wet or cold. 3. Being at the helm in cold wet weather is not fun. 4. Manning the sails for changing winds or direction can take a lot of time and make the time on the water much less fun and relaxing. 5. Finally any thoughts on a sailboat compared with a trawler wouldbe appreciated. Many thanks.

I'm also very interested in everyones opinion.

Sounds like you are a "boater" which is to say you want to enjoy yourselves comfortably with minimal effort while on the water. Contrast this with being a "sailor" who wants to manage sails, likes quiet , manage the weather while in the cockpit and is there for the journey, not the destination. Regardless of anyone's opinion, only your preference matters.

Well said, k1vsk! The things that recommend a sailboat are things one has to appreciate first. But they won't win a contest for practicality unless one values fuel savings over all else.

CalypsoP35 said: As K1 points out what you need to ask yourself, is it about the journey or the destination? A power boater says I can get to point x in 40 minutes and point y in 50 minutes. The sailor just looks at the powerboater and says when I'm on my sailboat I'm already where I want to be. Click to expand...

Trawler advantages- arguably more room. Arguably higher speed. Arguably simpler to operate. Shallower draft. Sailboat advantages- lower running cost. More comfortable motion. The silence of sailing. The higher speed aspect of running a trawler is quickly mitigated by the fact that most trawlers see HUGE increases in fuel consumption if you try to go faster than 8-10 knots. Really, if you're looking at gunkholing, the difference between a sailboat travelling at 6 knots and a trawler travelling at 8 knots is minimal A pilothouse is a great way to travel in the NW.

I work on power boats and relax on sailboats.... Any questions??

I've had both I've had both so here are a couple of things. Trawler more expensive to buy more expensive to insure less seaworthy (large windows, etc.) mine had 39 holes at or below the waterline more complex machinery religious zeal required in engine maintenace most don't track very well in large following seas reminds me alot of driving a bus lots of room inside great view from flybridge very easy to dock, maneuver (once you get used to it - I had twin engines) takes much more ground tackle because a lot more windage goes to windward really, really well much faster cruises much less likely to take this boat on a day sail better fishing platform 300 gallons of diesel is just topping off the tanks. easy to carry a dinghy Sailboat cheaper to buy redundant get home power (sails or engine) rolls less, more stable, weight lower more seaworthy (I'd rather be offshore in 50 knots of air and big waves on a well found sailboat) more fun just to operate day sails are fun slow, quiet, peacefull more sporty (opportunity to race) lots more to do on a 12 hour passage (tweak sails, get up spinnaker) 300 gallons of fuel would last 3 years All in all, I'd say a 40 foot trawler and a 40 foot sailboat would have about the same annual operating costs. The trawler would be in fuel and engine maintenance. The sailboat would be in sails, cordage, blocks, and much less fuel and engine maintenance. The sailboat would be even more if you raced her.

The stability & roll characteristics of a trawler are worth looking into. In choppy beam seas the trawler will be MUCH more uncomfortable. Operating costs can be similar over the long run, depending on how much you cruise and how much you sail. The fuel is a small part of overall cost of operation. I'll second the notion that going out for a daysail is fun but going out for a day motor isn't quite the same. Roller furling makes sail handling pretty easy

As others have said, its only your preferences that matter when it comes to enjoying yourself on the water. For me, there is an art and beauty to sailing that isn't there with a powerboat. My wife has never come out and said it but the truth is she might prefer a trawler type power boat, but I plan to sail as long as I find it rewarding and she'll indulge me. If it was a choice between a powerboat and staying on shore, I'd be a powerboater in a minute. As others have said, I find I'm on a skinny trawler with a stick, more than I'd like, but my available leisure time doesn't allow me to wait for the wind to visit the places I want to go so sometimes I end up motoring. However, there are few things as rewarding as that perfect day where the winds clock perfectly and you sail all day to your planned destination with one tack making the same speed you would under power. Its just an amazing sense of accomplishment.

You - and your mate - have to really WANT to sail to justify getting a sailboat. WANTING to sail means not minding sitting in the rain some days, dressing for the weather when necessary, and enjoying and being able to abide rougher conditions. Here's the major knock on powerboats from what I've seen... those days when the sailing is great and a lot of fun are the same days the trawlers and Searays stay in port because it's too 'rough'. Aside from the obvious speed/running cost differences is the motion and comfort when things get breezed up a bit. Someone prone to motion sickness will likely have it worse with power vs sail. Sailing in the PNW does indeed include a lot of motoring, esp in summer, esp in Desolation Sound. For many people (and I suspect yourselves) as already mentioned the pilothouse style boat may be the compromise. Nauticat, Fisher, Cooper, Seabird, Fraser and others offered pilothouse style boats that might be just this side of "motorsailor". With no disrespect, Rusty, you sound like a trawler owner in waiting.

Rustyf said: I am considering my first large boat-32-36 ft- that I would moor in the Seattle area and sail/motor to the San Juan islands. There are a lot of things that I like about sailboats. However I have reservations about somethings that I would appreciate hearing from the forum about. One thing to keep in mind is that my wife and daughters have never sailed and it is important that they want to go out on the boat on a regular basis. Also my sailing experience is limited to very small day sailers. 1. What I have learned is that in the PS area much of a sailboats time underway is on the engine not the sails. 2. Being in the cabin while underway can be claustrophobic with virtually no ability to enjoy the sights especially if the weather is wet or cold. Click to expand...

3. Being at the helm in cold wet weather is not fun. 4. Manning the sails for changing winds or direction can take a lot of time and make the time on the water much less fun and relaxing. Click to expand...

5. Finally any thoughts on a sailboat compared with a trawler wouldbe appreciated. Many thanks. Click to expand...

tdw said: Click to expand...

I'm thinking a nauticat, ie a pilot house tpe motor sailer, or one of the older Fisher MS's running around. Also pilot housed. OR< you will need a sailboat with an enclosure potentially, or, heck, Have to agree with faster, and say look at trawler styles. Lots of those around too, a few being made around here as well! Edmonds has a number of trawler in the YC here. Camino trolls, a few grand banks. Rangers, American Tugs are a few others that are common here in Edmonds, along with elsewhere around the sound! Pickup a 48north for sailboats, yachting if you want the local more power oriented freebe rag at any marina, or marine oriented store. Marty

blt2ski said: I'm thinking a nauticat, ie a pilot house tpe motor sailer, or one of the older Fisher MS's running around. Also pilot housed. OR< you will need a sailboat with an enclosure potentially, or, heck, Have to agree with faster, and say look at trawler styles. Lots of those around too, a few being made around here as well! Edmonds has a number of trawler in the YC here. Camino trolls, a few grand banks. Rangers, American Tugs are a few others that are common here in Edmonds, along with elsewhere around the sound! Pickup a 48north for sailboats, yachting if you want the local more power oriented freebe rag at any marina, or marine oriented store. Marty Click to expand...

FOWL! or is that FOUL! TD, you double fuzzy rug rat you! this is NOT the "sorry""ignore" thread! So keep that stinkpotish multihull something or other what ever you said for real! Ok, back to your regularly scheduled harASSment of folks!LOL marty

Don't forget On a trawler you have the three biggest disadvantages. The cost of fuel, the stink of fuel being burned in large quantities, and the constant noise of the engine. Sailboat is slower, quieter, and should have more easy and comfortable motion.

trawler please i want to keep the contents of my stomach in there now a sailboat emmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm memories

Glad I read this thread! I always wondered what I would like to go boating on if I was to upgrade from my current sailboat or if health impacted my decisions. I always imagined it would be a Trawler, but now I know if/when, it will be a PilotHouse motorsailer. Sure hope I can find one here in the PNW, most folks tend to hang onto them. Amazing the criteria we don't consider until someone else points them out to us. Read some thoughts on Trawlers that either never occurred to me or I just was not aware of.

HEHE! You guys know I have to comment on this thread!!! I put down and lost offers on 2 Nordhavn 46's (one was in Washington) and at least two Kadey Krogen 42's. Got po'd at the process and bought my beloved C400. And for those that think I am a traitor you can bite Sailingdog. HEHE!! To be clear, a trawler like a Nordhavn, a Cape Horn, and to a lesser extent a Selene or Krogen (IMHO) are absolutely as safe and solid as about any sailboat I can think of or have been on. The Nordhavn 40 went around the world right out of the box. How many sailboats can go around the world right out of the box? Now a Grand Banks, Albin, Marine Trader or some of the other trawlers are not meant for that and would never make it... but they are not meant for that as stated. They are SDisp's and more for coastal and short jaunts. As a live aboard for a family, I would certainly consider a trawler. They are very roomy. For those of you that do not have kids, let me tell you that kids really eat up a lot of room on a sailboat - more than you can imagine. However, the great drawbakc for trawlers is not in my opinion their fuel consuption (as we do end up motoring all the time and try to avoid going to weather under sail if we can help it), the great drawback is that your entire means of propulsion is based upon a mechanical apparatus that can and will break down. The high end trawlers are failry bullet-proof with a backup (nordhavn carries a wing engine), but that still cannot compare to being able to sail back in to port... assuming you are in a place that you can sail. Because trawler or sailboat, your engine breaks down in the ICW and you are calling Sea Tow. If you enjoy getting to a place, anchoring, and exploring in your tender from there, a trawler may be for you. If you enjoy moving around more frequently, enjoy sailing (it is fun), do not mind the many limitations of a sailboat (space, systems access, systems availability, and others), and you cannot get comfortable with the thought you are dependent on a engine (possibly for survival), then a sailboat may be for you. I bet the OP, who has spent little time on sailboats, will have a hard time convincing the family on a sailboat to that of a WELL MADE trawler (don't buy junk). However, I hope he does. I think sailing forces you to learn seamanship and about boats than a tralwer or any motorboat does. It forces you to learn how to sail, how it works, how to motor (which is very hard in most sailboats, incidentally), etc. In that time, he will learn the effects of tides and wind on docking, he will be more aware of weather and its patters, and he will have a endeavor his kids can learn while they are getting from A:B. Unlike much of this forum, I am not at all against well made trawlers. They are great for many people, where I think a sailboat would burn them out. And hey, if it gets you out on the water and gets you spending time with your family one-on-one, who cares what it is? That's all that matters. But don't discount a sailboat until someone has taken you for a sail. It has a way of getting in your blood more than diesel fumes. All the best, Brian PS JRD has spent a lot of time on a N46, IIRC. It would be worth considering his opinion.

Cruisingdad said: The Nordhavn 40 went around the world right out of the box. How many sailboats can go around the world right out of the box? Click to expand...

Rustyf said: 2. Being in the cabin while underway can be claustrophobic with virtually no ability to enjoy the sights especially if the weather is wet or cold. No claustrophobia here - As a matter of fact that's where my wife goes when she doesn't feel like being outside...... and also she actually tolerates the healing better kicking back on the setee 3. Being at the helm in cold wet weather is not fun. Here's a nice warm helm for ya - Click to expand...

DONT TRUST STAN (ChristyLeigh)! HE HAS BEEN SECRETLY DREAMING OF A CATALINA 320. I tell ya.... the advice you get on forums sometimes!!! HEHE! You knew I had to razz ya a little, Stan. Brian

Cruisingdad said: DONT TRUST STAN (ChristyLeigh)! HE HAS BEEN SECRETLY DREAMING OF A CATALINA 320. I tell ya.... the advice you get on forums sometimes!!! HEHE! You knew I had to razz ya a little, Stan. Brian Click to expand...

Regardless, my friend, the NC is a beautiful boat. I can see why a mortgage would be worth it!! Brian

I'm currently looking at the same question, along with planning on living aboard. While powerboats can be faster and have more room, I like the broader functionality of a powered sailboat. I like sailing and I like the fact that I have *two* economical engines. So, I know I don't want a power boat. I'm looking for a pilot house sailboat or something like a Hunter with a great bimini. Good luck in your search.

For years, I have always been a Sailboat guy but two years ago we traded up to a 50' powerboat. But something is missing and it's taken me a while to figure it out. The powerboat doesn't stir my soul the way the sailboat did. I used to feel a real connection with 'the universe' when we were sailing - almost like a religious experience. No such connection with the powerboat (although admittedly it's a lot of fun!), it's is up for sale after this summer. Sailboat vs. Trawler? For me, no question, it's a sailboat!

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The Ultimate Trawler Boat Buying Guide

ultimate guide to buying a trawler yacht

I have been writing about trawlers and powerboat cruising for many years. It is both an obsession and a fascination for me, as I witness hundreds of people, mostly couples, embrace the trawler lifestyle as a healthy alternative to routine living on land. While the last several years certainly got a lot of people and families to escape from a confined existence, choosing a freer life on the water away from so many imposed restrictions, the trawler lifestyle was already alive and well in North America.

(Below: "Growler", a Custom Zimmerman 36 Trawler once owned by Bill Parlatore, founder of Passagemaker Magazine.)

What is the appeal of this lifestyle? For me, living aboard and operating trawler yachts represents a quality of life that embraces the values of self-sufficiency and independence, and adventure without sacrificing comfort. One is free to move as the mood dictates, finding a balance of nature while engaging as much—or as little—in society, careers, and other activities that compensate with convenience, glittery things, nice cars and houses, and other material things. Many come to realize at some point they are but distractions from a more grounded existence.

Operating a trawler does not demand the skills and experience required from a similar size sailboat . And it is relatively easy to learn the nuances of engine and vessel maintenance, navigation, and proper seamanship. Depending on what kind of powerboat one chooses, they can be economical to own and operate, and offer a pleasant home experience that often rivals luxury living ashore. And a point often missed when discussing this lifestyle, the skills needed to competently run a trawler offer stimulating physical and mental challenges that are immensely valuable at the stage of life when most of us pursue this life direction.

It is rewarding to gain confidence and a sense of accomplishment with every new port, every new challenge. Dealing with the vagaries of life on the water makes one stronger, more resilient, and better able to deal with just about anything life throws at us. A t-shirt captured that sentiment: “Calm seas never made a skilled sailor.”

And a final note before I begin. While we’ll look at the cost of admission into this life, most of us are at a point in life where we have more financial worth than time, so the cost of getting into this lifestyle is more than made up by a quality of life that most agree is hard to beat.

This guide to buying a trawler yacht serves several functions, and I hope to satisfy them in the following pages. We will discuss the choices one has in the trawler market, and hopefully explain the value of each type as it relates to selecting the right boat. At the same time, I hope to underscore this discussion with a greater appreciation for what I believe is often missed. Choosing the right boat is only the beginning. There is much more to the selection process than simply choosing a layout that seems comfortable or a boat that comes with all the bells and whistles. Walking through a boat during a boat show is only the first taste of what a boat has to offer. I trust my guide will help people avoid falling in love with the wrong boat. If I am successful, we will keep such misplaced passion to a minimum.

TRAWLER BUYER'S GUIDE - TABLE OF CONTENTS

What Is A Trawler?
What Are The Different Types Of Trawler Boats?
What's The Difference Between Trawlers & Cruising Boats?
What About Catamarans?
Hybrid & EV Powerboats
How Many People To Take On Your Trawler?
Where Should You Take Your Trawler?
How Long Should You Cruise On Your Trawler?
What Does A Trawler Boat Cost?
Completing The Process Of Buying A Trawler

I. What is a Trawler Anyway?

I looked back at some of the references and definitions I offered over the years, as well as those presented by our editors. I keep coming back to the one that still resonates best with me, even as I look over the current field of trawlers and cruising yachts out there. Some are very similar to what was sold years ago, but not all, and each supports a lifestyle that is capable, comfortable, and relatively easy.

I am confident that, as we get ready to start 2024, the word “trawler” is best considered a metaphor for the cruising lifestyle it so well represents. Yacht brokers may disagree with me, but I stand firm. Back in the 1960s, power cruising pioneer Robert Beebe suggested that boats aren’t good for “voyaging” under power if they do not strongly resemble “true” trawlers. He referred, of course, to those husky fishing vessels that remain at sea for long periods, surviving anything the weather and sea throws at them, and safely bringing the catch and crew home when the job is done.

Today that analogy is not even remotely fitting for many powerboats that can capably make passages at sea, complete extended coastal and inland cruises, and serve as comfortable and safe homes for their owners. There has been a continuous evolution of the cruising powerboat genre for years now, and they now come in an assortment of styles, hull shapes, and sizes. And there is no better time than now to look at the field of available trawler choices.

In addition to traditional yacht designs that continue to be refined, we now also have new choices that really push the envelope beyond traditional shapes and concepts. And the introduction of powerful and reliable outboard propulsion has brought along a new category of cruising boats that simply did not exist before.

It is all very exciting. I once observed that comparing the cruising characteristics of a full displacement steel trawler to a displacement power catamaran or a larger Downeast cruiser is pure folly. Each can make a superb cruising boat for owners. Which is the better athlete: a football player, a hockey goalie, or a ballet dancer?

Once you understand the many kinds of boats on the market today, and the choices you have, given your budget and other considerations, it is important to match whatever boat you choose to your style of cruising. This is at the heart of this buyer’s guide. Yes, it is vital to know what is out there to choose from, but it is even more critical to understand your needs and what kind of boat will best fit those needs. While this may be a challenge for some, hasty mistakes can lead to broken plans, create unnecessary anxiety, and put an unfortunate end to one’s dream cruising plans. All of which is totally avoidable.

Let’s begin with a practical look at the main types of hull shapes to understand the positive and negative aspects of each as they relate to cruising. Then we’ll look into how they may fit your needs.

(Below: Trawler owners meet up during the Pacific Northwest Nordic Tug Owners Rendezvous. Also called PANNTOA .)

II. Choices Come in All Shapes

Full Displacement

What was once the only real choice for those intending to cruise under power is the full displacement hull shape. It is the earliest form of powerboat and most commercial and fishing vessels are of this type. It is the most seaworthy and efficient hull shape. Many popular cruising boats are full displacement, such as:

Northern Marine
Hatteras LRC
And dozens of custom steel and fiberglass trawlers.

These vessels travel efficiently through the water, with no unnecessary energy spent trying to lift the hull up onto the wave in front. They are well matched to lower horsepower engines, as they offer minimal resistance going through the water.

These boats are very forgiving at sea, which makes them very seaworthy. Rather than resist wave action, they give way, and roll to let the wave energy pass by rather than resist it, which keeps them safe at sea.

The full hull shape has the most volume for a given length, which translates into superior inside dimensions for accommodations, large tankage, and exceptional storage. They make fantastic liveaboard boats and for long distance cruising these small ships can carry all your stuff. Onboard weight is not an issue compared to any other type of hull shape.

(Below: A Northern Marine 57 is a good example of a full-displacement trawler yacht.)

northern marine 57 full displacement trawler

Again, the low energy requirements to travel through the water, rather than try to get on top of it, means they are best powered by relatively small diesel engines to run at the displacement speeds within the maximum hull speed of 1.34 times the square root of the waterline length. This is Froude’s Law and is the limit of their speed potential. Combine this lower horsepower engine with huge fuel tankage and owners have the range to travel long distance. In some of these full displacement trawlers, one can make across-and-back ocean crossings, or enjoy a full year of cruising, without stopping to buy fuel.

For efficient and economical cruising, a full displacement trawler is the way to go, for many reasons. Rather than bother with the generally tedious sailboat mentality of electrical and battery load management, owners of full displacement trawlers just don’t worry about it. The boat is fitted with one, two, or even three generators that supply all the electrical power needed to run even a full suite of domestic galley appliances, HVAC, and pilothouse electronics.

Not only do these gensets make for relatively unlimited self-sufficiency whenever the trawlers remain at anchor, but the better builders take advantage of the hull volume to thoughtfully plan accommodations during construction. Generators are then strategically located to minimize noise and vibration throughout the boat. Just like being on a small ship, one is vaguely aware that a generator is running somewhere. The boat is designed and built around that concept, so there is always plenty of quiet, available electrical power. Whatever sense that one has of distant humming from running machinery, it is nothing more than evidence of shipboard activity. I have always loved the sense of independence and freedom it provides. On the right boat, it is so muted that it does not detract from the feeling of being one with nature, as when alone in a quiet anchorage tucked inside a rugged Alaskan island coastline.

Some high-end expedition trawlers go one step further. Northern Marine, for example, often designs the boat around a pair of identical 20kW generators to share generating duty. There might also be a small third unit for nighttime use when loads are much reduced. And much like the commercial and working vessels that are the heritage behind the company, nothing is hidden or tucked away. Serious business demands serious access.

(Below: The Northern Marine 57 has two 20kW generators for long-distance adventures.)

There is always a downside, of course. Full displacement boats are limited in speed, and cruising at 7-10 knots is about all one can expect no matter how much horsepower one theoretically adds. It is simply a full shape traveling in its sweet spot in the water. But in conditions where lesser yachts need to slow down to handle the rough seas, these boats just continue on at their normal cruising speed, no big deal and perfectly safe.

The other issue is that such seaworthiness comes at the expense of rolling in a seaway. Yes, it is why these boats are so safe. But it can be uncomfortable for crew, and over time can wear down even the hardiest crew.

That is why most full displacement boats have some form of stabilization. They lack sails to remain steady. These trawlers instead rely on some form of stabilizing technology, either active or passive, and they are quite effective reducing rolling at sea. Active fin stabilizers, flopperstoppers, gyrostabilizers, even flume tanks, have been used with varying degrees of success to manage the roll of a full displacement yacht. And active systems keep getting better, with more sensitive electronic controls and sensors to reduce movement. The current generation of gyro systems, such as the SeaKeeper, are proving popular in the trawler community and for good reason.

Full displacement boats are not the best for close quarter maneuvering, especially as many have a single diesel engine. Learning to drive a big displacement trawler is a worthy skill to develop as it builds confidence. One must understand the ship’s main rudder is designed and sized for optimum performance at sea, not close quarter maneuvering. That is why these boats have bow and stern thrusters. Just like every commercial ship out there. The right tools for the job.

Another potential downside of this hull shape has to do with where one cruises. These boats typically have deeper draft and so would not be ideal for shallow water cruising as one is finds in the Florida Keys, the ICW, and the Bahamas and Caribbean.

Having gone many thousands of miles on full displacement trawlers, I have great respect and appreciation of the beauty of this hull shape. Once out of sight of land, speed becomes the speed du jour, no big deal without reference on land. And a stabilized full displacement trawler is a great ride at sea, easy running and comfortable. Even in heavy weather there is generally little cause for concern…if at all.

One more comment on the speed of travel. I always found the underway travel and motion quickly settles crew into a normal routine, with everyone going about their day as if they were in a marina or back on land. Laundry gets done, writing takes place, leisurely cooking in the galley, maybe a brisket in the crockpot. There is always the need for some maintenance, catching up with cruising guides, email with family and friends, and other activities. This is in sharp contrast to traveling at speed, where the motion forces one to hold on, firmly seated at the saloon table, or wedged into a corner cushion. Baking cookies was a favorite memory and one the rest of that crew surely remembers. The boat smelled fantastic, even if I could barely keep up with the disappearing cookies off the cooling rack.

For many reasons, life on a small ship has much to recommend it.

Semi-Displacement

The other hull shape that defines the trawler style cruising boat is the semi-displacement hull. It is perfect for those who don’t need the fuel and storage capabilities of the full displacement trawler, and do not intend to spend a great deal of time making passages, cruising remote areas, or going all season without buying fuel. The semi-displacement trawler is a fabulous compromise. Designers have come up with ways to get more performance, reduce draft, and still serve as a comfortable home while traveling or living aboard.

One way to improve performance is to lose weight in the form of fuel and water tankage, reducing both the size and number of tanks in the boat. They may also cut back on some of the backup redundant equipment and tighten up accommodations. Going on a diet is definitely a path to higher performance. While those granite counters and flooring seem right at home in a full displacement trawler yacht, substituting lighter weight materials will result in a higher speed potential in a semi-displacement yacht. With less weight there is less boat in the water, less draft, wetted surface, and resistance, especially without a deep keel.

Changes to the hull shape come from modifying the typically rounded stern into a flatter hull form aft with hard chines. The flatter hull form will reach higher speeds when adding more horsepower to drive the boat up onto the leading wave. And the flatter stern adds stability, taking out some of the inherent roll associated with a full displacement trawler.

While these boats are quite happy to run along at displacement speeds, the semi-displacement cruiser can also really get up and go, if there is enough horsepower. With bigger engines pushing the boat, it can break free of the water, traveling at 12-15 knots or higher, depending on how much horsepower is in the boat.

This is by far the most popular trawler hull shape primarily for this reason. It can be powered by a variety of engines, still has good load carrying and accommodations, has reduced draft, and provides many—if not all—of the benefits of the full displacement trawler yacht.

Most trawlers in our cruising community are of the semi-displacement type, and brands like:

Grand Banks
Nordic Tugs
Ocean Alexander
American Tug
And dozens more prove it is a wonderful all-around platform for cruising

(Interestingly, almost all the trawlers built in Asia during the 1970s and ‘80s were semi-displacement trawlers. But they were powered by low horsepower diesels, often the venerable Lehman Ford 120hp and 135hp engines, so they were priced to sell and provide the economical trawler experience to a wide range of buyers. The fact that these boats could only run at displacement speeds gave many the impression that they were full displacement trawlers, a confusion that continues to exist today.)

(Below: The Nordic Tug 40 is a good example of a semi-displacement trawler.)

The top speed of a semi-displacement trawler is limited by how much horsepower the builder reasons is sellable in the new boats. In my opinion, it was downright shameful when the management of the high-quality Grand Banks brand, the hands down bullseye of the trawler market for many years, decided at one point that all its models had to be capable of cruising speeds above 18 knots. The phenomenally successful and classic beauty of the original GB hull did not lend itself to a pair of high horsepower engines. It was painful to watch the amount of water pushed by a Grand Banks making 22 knots, made worse by the fuel burn to achieve that performance.

To some extent, larger semi-displacement trawlers also take advantage of generators to supply onboard electrical power, as there is not enough room for dozens of dedicated house batteries for the boat’s electrical needs. In most cases a running generator is not as quiet or unobtrusive as one comes to expect on a full displacement trawler, but a modern installation with underwater exhaust does much to reduce the impact of a running generator.

The benefits of the semi-displacement trawler clearly explain why it remains the most popular choice for most people. It has reasonable storage and fuel capacity, comfortable accommodations, and can run at higher speeds. All things considered, for most people it is the best package of features one looks for.

But it is not perfect. One of the disadvantages of the hull form is its less-than-ideal handling in rough seas. Some of these boats have small rudders to allow better control at higher speeds. The boat’s motion tends to lose its normal composure in rough water, when the boat must slow down, and the rudders are less effective.

(On modern boats, this is somewhat negated by stabilizers and gyrostabilizer systems. They do a remarkable job of reducing the rolling motion in these boats, and owners are more than satisfied to have motion under control on their semi-displacement trawlers.)

Owners of semi-displacement boats really appreciate being able to run faster to their next destination. The difference between eight knots and 11 knots is readily apparent when one can see the destination ahead and the crew is anxious to get there.

One of the tradeoffs of the semi-displacement trawler is that when they achieve high speed, they burn obscene amounts of fuel, and quickly. To own a large, semi-displacement trawler capable of 20+ knots is an exercise in balancing economy with distance and time. Those who don’t have the time will spend more at the fuel dock. It is just that simple.

Everything considered, the semi-displacement trawler is justifiably very popular for most cruising, even when that includes long distance travel. Flexibility is its best feature.

Big and small, fast or slow, the full displacement and semi-displacement hull shapes are what we talk about when we talk about trawlers and the trawler lifestyle. Motoryachts most often fit into the semi-displacement category, and one will find them cruising along with the trawler crowd. But the motoryacht is much better staying at a luxury marina will full shorepower and other hookups. One rarely finds motoryachts anchored out for days on end, where trawlers often spend their time. It isn’t what motoryachts are designed to do.

For many years, the cruising scene consisted of sailboats and trawlers, and that was it. Visit any popular cruising destination, from Marsh Harbour to Roche Harbor, and the anchorage and marinas were full of sailboats and trawlers. Both excel at life on the hook, and the constant scurrying of crew, dogs, provisions, and gear by speedy dinghies are as much a part of the cruising life as sundowners on the beach watching for the Green Flash.

III. Not All Cruising Powerboats Today Are Trawlers

There are two other kinds of powerboats that we find cruising in North America today. And they have really grown in popularity in recent years.

One has taken the world by storm, in my opinion. Almost every sailing couple I know who came to the Dark Side has gone in this direction, but they are certainly not the only ones who choose these boats. For many people, the lure of being on the water, even if it is only for weekends, must be satisfied in short order. People with limited time have a need for speed that full-time cruisers do not. These people want efficient, high-speed running, and it is more desirable than load-carrying ability or accommodations. Without a planing hull, they can’t go.

The planing hull quickly moves from hull speed up on top of the water. A burst of horsepower drives the boat up, and it doesn’t take as much power to stay there. It is an efficient speed machine. Some boats in our niche can really blast along in calm water, cruising efficiently at 25 knots…or higher. Some examples are:

Nimbus Boats

A planing hull has a shallow draft, with a sharp entry and a flat, minimal underbody. This allows a planing boat to reach its destination quickly and then slow down if owners choose to gunkhole in skinny water. But watch that running gear, as there is nothing to protect the props and rudders designed for minimal drag.

This boat is best suited for those in a hurry. But they are still cruising boats, and they open up possibilities for those with only so much available time. The Great Loop becomes possible for those who can’t spare a year or more. Boaters headed to Florida for the winter and don’t have months to do the ICW. Puget Sound owners with weeks instead of months to explore the Inside Passage, or East Coast boaters who want to experience the Abacos but don’t have all winter to do so.

Get there quickly, then slow down and smell the flowers. Sounds like a plan to me.

(Below: Sidonia & Fred kept their 62-foot trawler, but purchased this Nimbus 405 to complete the Great Loop. Read their story .)

couple cruising the great loop on their nimbus boat

One potential disadvantage of the planing boat is that high-speed efficiency is directly tied to weight. Given that many of these boats are built with the latest infused fiberglass construction, often using high-tech cored material, the goal is to save weight where possible. Keeping weight down is important. And limited bilge and accommodations spaces don’t offer much general storage anyway.

But this is not a problem for owners not planning to live aboard. They are not spending weeks on the hook, nor are they expecting guests to accompany them on their Great Loop. They are bringing along just what they need to enjoy the boat as is, and no more. (Our recent series following a couple doing the Loop on their Nimbus 405 Coupe showed this lifestyle perfectly. A great trip on the Great Loop.)

Unfortunately, when the weather turns sour, any boat designed for efficient, high-speed running will be at a decided disadvantage when it is time to slow down, where they experience less control. Some handle this transition better than others, but generally small rudders do not have enough surface area to be effective at slow speed. But these boats are still all-around great cruising boats which explains they popularity and growing numbers out cruising. If the weather is bad, they don’t go anywhere. Their speed potential allows them to pick their travel when the weather window improves.

A relatively recent move is to power these boats with outboard engines. Using one or two large outboards (or up to four engines on some of the more extreme machines) makes a statement about using technology to advance boat design. The area in the hull usually dedicated for machinery and propulsion is now open for tanks, storage, and a more relaxed interior for accommodations.

The move to outboards eliminates the need for rudders and traditional steering systems, which removes complexity from the boats. Modern outboards are quiet and smooth, and this translates into a better running experience under way. Many find it a worthy tradeoff to the longer engine life offered by diesels. The access on outboard engines makes maintenance easier, and systems integration simplifies the boats at the same time.

Some builders tell me how easy life becomes when one can lift the engines out of the water when they are tied up in a marina. No more worries about underwater growth on running gear, eliminating corrosion issues, and fouled surfaces that require frequent cleaning.

During those times where one is living on a planing boat at anchor or without shorepower, the smaller house battery bank means one must run a generator more frequently, often several times a day. That assumes there is a genset on the boat, which is usually required if the boat has air conditioning.

The degree of self-sufficiency on a planing boat is directly tied to the need to keep things light and only having the essential systems, tankage, and accommodations. If your cruising involves staying at nice marinas with great facilities, who needs all that storage and extra staterooms? For Loopers, it offers flexibility and travel at a different level than chugging along, mile after mile, seeing the same landscape all day long.

The motion on a boat doing 20+ knots does not allow much activity on the boat and crew is restricted in what they can do while making miles to the next destination. That is not to say it isn’t thrilling to blast along, threading the needle among the San Juan Islands. Heading down Chesapeake Bay at speed is satisfying in ways that eight knots just doesn’t cut it. The same is true along Hawk Channel, Biscayne Bay, or Lake Ontario.

IV. Catamarans

The second type of cruising powerboat that does not fit the description of a trawler is the power catamaran. A somewhat fringe boat within the cruising powerboat category, power cats are nevertheless a great platform for anyone looking for a cruiser that offers space, outstanding maneuverability from widely spaced engines, and excellent shallow water cruise ability.

Power cat builders have evolved mostly from builders of sailing cats, so it is not surprising that the early boats were nothing more than sailing cats without masts. But more companies came out with boats design as powerboats. (The compromises of creating a power cat from a boat designed for sailing went away for the most part.)

Companies that offer (or did offer) power cats included:

Fountaine Pajot

Some of these companies are no longer in business but made enough boats that they are usually available on the used market.

There is a lot to be said for a cruising catamaran. Economical cruising at 15-18 knots is the domain of the displacement catamaran, while planing cats, which are not suited for liveaboard cruising, can run quite well at 30+ knots.

The advantages of power cats include relatively shallow draft, great initial stability, and open interiors. The bridgedeck adds great living spaces, where one might find extra accommodations.

Many cats can be safely beached without a problem, which is a unique ability for any cruising boat.

(Below: Example of an Endeavor Power Catamaran.)

The economy of running a power catamaran is quite addicting. I owned a 41-foot power cat that would run along at 18 knots with hardly any wake, while getting exceptional fuel burn at that speed. The wide platform made for great living aboard, and the separation of the twin diesels, particularly when running at speed from the flybridge, seemed magical. It was quiet with lack of vibration, and quite relaxing as we reeled mile after mile on calm seas. It was a great cruising boat with outstanding maneuverability from widely spaced engines. I could literally walk the boat sideways using the two engines, while everyone on the dock assumed I used bow and stern thrusters to make it happen. (The boat had neither.)

The only issue I have with the power cat is the height of the bridgedeck between hulls. If it is too low, it can slap in head seas with an unnerving bang and motion that feels most unsettling, as if the boat is going to break. Multihull pioneer Malcom Tennant took me around several waterfront marinas in New Zealand to show me various interpretations of power catamaran bridgedeck design. When the bridgedeck nacelle stayed 36 inches or more above the water, the power cat would not slap under any conditions. The buoyancy of the hulls took over long before the bridgedeck met waves. And I reminded myself this was in New Zealand, where going to sea invariably involves rough seas and strong winds. (From my limited experience, the definition of pleasure boating in New Zealand has a decidedly different definition from anywhere else!)

While the displacement power catamaran has reasonable load carrying ability, it is generally prudent for a power cat owner to still keep an eye on weight and its distribution around the boat. While the larger power cats (one Tennant 20-meter cat comes to mind) can take 3,600 gallons of fuel for extremely long legs, cats under 48 feet are best kept light when possible.

I am quite smitten with the concept of the power cat for general cruising. I wish more builders would enter this market with well-engineered, lighter weight designs that showcase the benefits of the concept rather than simply building stable platforms that can hold a crowd. But unfortunately, heavy party barges are what one sees at the boat shows.

V. Hybrid and EV Powerboats

I suppose I would be negligent to not mention the push for electric and hybrid boats to mirror the somewhat political trend in the automotive world. To be honest, we own a Prius, but I much prefer driving my older Porsche. I also happen to like the smell of a diesel engine. In automobiles, I’m just not sold on a concept that requires such major (and overwhelmingly expensive) changes to our nation’s infrastructure.

As it relates to recreational boating, electric and hybrid power has come and gone in a variety of prototype cruisers, from Reuben Trane’s early solar catamaran to Greenline’s models of hybrid powerboats. I know the sailing community is generally united in their campaign to ditch the diesel engine, and YouTube influencers are falling all over each other trying to get the first serious system that offers a viable solution.

As well articulated by experienced broker, Seattle Yachts’ Dan Bacot, we won’t see much interest in this form of power cruising until someone builds a boat that can honestly make 100 miles in a day at six knots under electric power. That will make it feasible for the Great Loop and other cruising plans.

Until that milestone is reached (and I’m sure they will) such alternatives are just not worth serious consideration.

The Lifestyle

Now that we have looked at the various hull shapes and categories that define the trawler and other cruising boats, let’s see how to find a match from these different platforms to fit your plans.

It is important to think through this process with as much honesty as possible. It is so easy to slip into the unrealistic world of the ultimate boat. But most eventually agree these are more fantasy than anything remotely close to what any of us will do. Buying a boat that is capable of crossing oceans to reach exotic places like Tahiti is just not appropriate if you really intend to do the Great Loop in the next few years. That is also true if the idea of spending winters (or summers) in the tropics or the rugged Northwest Territories isn’t ever going to happen because you can only take a couple of weeks off at a time.

VI. How Many People Will be Aboard?

Is it just the two of you for most of the time? Will you have guests or family only occasionally, or do you expect to have others with you for most of the cruise? Families with growing children will have different needs than retired empty nesters who rarely have company.

The answer to this question will help determine the size of the boat, its layout and accommodations, and help define the boundaries of your search.

(Below: Obviously this image from the Mid-Atlantic Nordic Tug Owners Get-Together would be a little much!)

A word of advice from the stories of many cruising couples: Don’t buy a boat bigger than you need and make the assumption you will always have company to share your adventure. As I’ve heard many, many times, couples go ahead and buy a boat with multiple staterooms with the above assumption. Once they leave home and begin cruising, however, they make lots of new friends, all on their own boats. After a couple of years, they realize they don’t use those extra staterooms very often. And they can accommodate occasional family members with other arrangements, such as setting up the saloon. They eventually downsize to a smaller boat because they don’t need that extra room and a smaller boat is easier to handle and less expensive to own.

Two people can comfortably cruise on a boat that is 36 feet or so. This is certainly true for people who are down in the islands for the winter on a Monk 36, or cruising north on a Nordic Tug 37. No problem. But they are not living full time on the boat, or cruising with friends enough to require separate cabins. Both will drive up the space needs considerably. And it is not just about space. A water and holding tank large enough for two people will seem much smaller after only so many days. And I’m not talking about rationing water or limiting showers. This is cruising, after all, not minimalist camping.

A boat’s layout is as important as size, at least until one reaches the greater flexibility afforded by larger boats. There is a classic separation of living spaces in some boats, such as the Grand Banks 42 and the Selene 40. They have two nice staterooms, with the master in the stern and guest stateroom in the bow. That works great, offers privacy, and people share common spaces in the saloon and galley. Other boats group all staterooms forward, with the master and one or more guest cabins located near the bow. This is what one finds on the Nordic and American Tugs, Fleming, Krogen, Northwest Yachts, and most others. And all have proven successful, especially when extra people are family.

VII. Where are You Going?

I am not going to spend time with trawlers best suited for crossing oceans, as so few people really intend to do that these days. The world is a different place, the changing climate has more severe weather, and the relative ease of shipping one’s boat worldwide makes this a lot less desirable than it was decades ago. And a boat designed to cross the Atlantic to explore Europe is not the best type of boat for exploring Europe once you arrive, particularly if you want to head into the extensive canal systems.

Not to get off the point, and before anyone questions why I am such a fan of full displacement boats like the Northern Marine when I admit having no plan to cross oceans, let me clarify that the joy of owning such a great yacht is much more than being able to cross an ocean. All the benefits that make these great boats are just as valid for living aboard and coastal cruising, and many other adventures. One does not need to spend two weeks at sea to enjoy them.

The majority of people have plans that include the Great Loop, British Columbia and Alaska, the ICW on the East Coast, the Bahamas and the Caribbean, Mexico, the Great Lakes, Gulf of Mexico, Chesapeake Bay, Canadian Maritimes, and New England. One can spend several lifetimes exploring right here in North America. Doable, affordable, and close enough to family, friends, and support.

The best boats for many coastal and inland adventures are more about ease of operation and maneuverability, and keeping the draft down and the height within whatever restrictions exist for the chosen cruise.

It is quite possible to travel from Alaska to Maine as one big extended coastal cruise, although that would be a long trip. And all of it is within sight of land with very few and short exceptions. If you consider the new SeaPiper 35, add a truck and suitable trailer and you are good to go!

(Below: The Triangle Loop is a great trip for trawler boat owners.)

VIII. For How Long?

Which brings up how long one expects to be on the boat. Obviously, a full-time liveaboard couple will have space requirements unlike those planning a month on the boat. And the need for creature comforts is also a sliding scale, as occasional cruisers can live without comforts that would be unacceptable if the same people were to spend several months on the boat.

For example, if you use a dishwasher at home, you might be fine with hand washing dishes after each meal on the boat…for a time. But after a while that might seem too much like camping and not what you had in mind when you dreamed of cruising. The same goes for a separate shower versus the wet head found on smaller boats. (Definitely consult your spouse on these points!)

Again, I feel that 36 feet is about the minimum for full-time living aboard and cruising. Some have gone smaller, or somewhat bigger on a planing boat, but it is accepted because the duration of the planned cruise is short. The couple who did the Great Loop on their Nimbus 405 Coupe had plenty of space because they had what they needed, and nothing more. It served their needs for this trip. They take their longer cruises aboard their other boat, a 62-foot custom trawler.

Some couples expect to have the same creature comforts on their trawler as they enjoy ashore. But that usually means a generator, air conditioning, and/or a diesel furnace. While they may not know it, they also require large water tanks as they are not thinking about water management, and they want space for all the provisions and personal possessions. If they are liveaboards, where do they plan to store holiday decorations?

For most people, the length of time they expect to be aboard dictates comfort levels and determines which compromises they are willing to make.

These points also point to their style of cruising.

The diversity of cruising is its chief attraction, and each day brings something new, something different. Anchor out or stay in a marina…or even reserve a slip at a luxury marina with lots of facilities? Eat aboard or enjoy local cuisine? Wait for a perfect weather window or go no matter what? Move from one location to the next or stay in one place for a long time and take lots of small side trips?

As should be obvious, your style of cruising will have a huge impact on selecting the right boat. If you tend to be the sort who has a plan and follows the plan no matter what, then you will be far happier with a more seaworthy boat that can take whatever conditions come up each day. That is quite different from the fair-weather cruiser who waits for ideal weather and is content to wait.

If you like the idea of keeping on the move rather than staying in one place, then you will likely be more interested in the underway characteristics of the boat than one that is most livable when tied up at a marina.

Boat speed figures into this question as well. I know successful cruisers who swear the best plan is to get under way as early as possible and run the boat at speed for four or five hours. On a faster boat this gets them miles down the road, but then they stop early in the afternoon. They refuel, wash everything down and then play tourist for the rest of the afternoon. It is far more leisurely than nonstop travel. And they also take days off. Three days running, then two days off, staying put wherever they stopped. It keeps the cruise from becoming a blur.

Those who lust to spend weeks on the hook in paradise are going to be very unhappy if they must run the generator twice a day to keep the refrigerator running, and which requires them to refill their water tanks frequently. As for the holding tank, that is obvious as well.

On the flip side, if you love the energy and varied activities of resort marinas, you will be thrilled with the conveniences of an all-electric boat that relies on shorepower facilities, using the generator only when away from the dock.

IX. What Does A Trawler Boat Cost?

This is where an experienced broker can make all the difference. One can expect to pay anywhere from between several hundred thousand dollars to a couple of million to find a suitable boat. It may not be close to home, and a good broker will use the available resources to identify the right boat and then find one that fits and is in the condition one is willing to pay for.

New boat prices are high, and I don’t see that changing. Working with a broker is vital to success here, even after you have done your homework and know (or think you know) what you want. The broker will help locate boats that may be close enough to what you are looking for, and he or she may even steer you in a slightly different direction if they think it may serve you better for what you describe as your ideal trawler.

I strongly recommend buying a new or newer boat whenever possible. It just makes sense, and I would go down in size rather than get an older boat. A newer boat will be less problematic than an older boat with vintage systems, engines, wiring, plumbing, and construction. Leaks are a pain to deal with, and you are not buying a boat as a project.

Honestly, spending your time looking for discontinued parts and then repairing a boat when you and your spouse are supposed to be out cruising is no fun. It sucks. And it quickly wears down the excitement of the adventure, even if you like to tinker on the boat. And your spouse will get tired of reading books on the settee while you make another repair. This is not what you both planned. I’ve seen it over and over, enough to be 100-percent convinced.

Buy a new or newer boat and just enjoy the adventure.

Keep in mind there are other costs beyond the purchase price, and your broker will be very helpful, flushing them out and identifying some you may have missed. There is annual maintenance, for example, insurance, dockage, and the need for occasional repairs. Parts wear out, which will happen most often on an older boat. The mindset of “out of sight, out of mind” doesn’t make it go away. That hidden cutless bearing needs replacing on occasion, as do many other moving parts on a boat.

There is a ballpark figure that floats around the cruising community. Some suggest 10 percent of the cost of the boat is about right for these annual expenses. I have never verified that to be accurate with my own boats, but it is worth considering.

(Below: Currently a pre-owned Nordic Tug like this can range from $250,000 - $600,000 and more.)

X. Putting It All Together

From my experience, validated by many owners over the years, it is easy to spend too much time agonizing about what kind of boat to buy. If it allows you to enjoy your time on the water, it can be made to work. No boat is perfect. They all represent compromises in one way or another.

Besides your efforts to find the right boat for the kind of cruise you intend, there are two other key factors that contribute to a successful ownership experience. The first, and one that I have been making throughout this guide, is to buy a boat that is as new as possible, even if it means you might have to downsize a bit with your available budget. If it will work for you otherwise, but you must lose the hot tub on the flybridge, it is a worthy tradeoff. You will still have a genuine cruising boat.

The horror stories of old Asian trawlers built to low standards are now mostly irrelevant, as these examples of boats to avoid are now so old one should not even consider them. Besides, there is the reality of today’s marine insurance industry, hit by the large number of damage claims from named storms in recent years. One will find it difficult to get insurance for boats even at 20 years old, let alone 50+ years.

There is another factor that should figure into this buying equation, and it will make all the difference between wonderful and satisfying ownership and a money pit that needs continuous repair by outside services wherever one travels.

That is accessibility. If you can’t get to everything easily, things will be neglected, and system parts will wear out and break. Being able to see, touch, inspect, and take apart every major component on the boat is vital, no matter if it is a Nordic Tug, a lavish Hampton motoryacht, or an expedition trawler. It is even more important on a planing boat like the Nimbus or Back Cove, where available space is at a premium and the builder had to be creative during construction to fit it all in.

Owning a boat with a non-working stern thruster that can’t be inspected, serviced, or repaired without removing the genset shoehorned just above it would cause me great distress, to put it mildly.

If you study the differences, pros and cons, and other considerations, you will be much better equipped to step aboard boats at a boat show. All lined up with brokers standing by to answer your questions, it will feel good to examine each boat on your list to see how it feels, and whether it might fit the needs of what you hope to do. This process can take a couple of years, which is fine. In fact, I know folks now searching for their retirement trawler that is still five years away. There is nothing wrong with taking one’s time.

I would caution, however, not to take too long. Because life goes on, and things happen. Reality changes. Aging parents, volatile portfolios, world stability, and inevitable family medical issues are all things that command our attention at some point.

In addition to the above issues, it is good to remember that nothing in life remains static. When you find your plans or goals change, it is okay if that perfect boat is no longer the right choice. Edits may be needed to the original blueprint. It is very important to realize and accept this.

The notion that there is only one boat to satisfy every dream is totally wrong. But there is a boat for everyone looking to go cruising, that fits every plan, purpose, or budget.

My purpose for this guide is to help you find a boat that brings you the most fun and adventure, in comfort and safety and within your budget. Successful cruising can happen on most any boat.

The key to this adventure is to get started and go!

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A Complete Guide to Liveaboard Trawlers: All You Need to Know

Are you thinking about spending a few days at sea on a boating adventure? Living out on the ocean on a dive trip or an extended deep-sea fishing journey is an experience you’ll never forget.

Some boats allow you to live permanently out on the water. Liveaboard trawlers are an example of a vessel equipped to spend days or weeks at sea without the need to return to land.

Trawlers also make popular liveaboard boats for marinas, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle, and the expense, of living in the city. Liveaboard trawlers suit everything from student accommodation in a marina to a research vessel for marine scientists.

The liveaboard trawler gives you all the conveniences of living in an apartment. Sure, you might not have the floor space you get with an apartment, but not everyone needs that in their life. Liveaboard trawlers provide you with a snug, comfortable living space.

This post unpacks everything you need to know about liveaboard trawlers.

What Are Liveaboard Trawlers?

Trawlers typically feature displacement hulls and wide beams, with single or twin outboard or inboard motors powering the boat . Trawlers are one of the more popular fishing boats , and they work well as liveaboard dive boats.

A liveaboard trawler is ideal for traveling long distances up and down the east or west coast or around the Great Loop. They make sturdy vessels for deep-sea conditions and can handle rough weather.

What Is the Layout of a Liveaboard Trawler?

The trawler layout comes in many designs and setups, and they are highly customizable if you’re buying a new model from a dealership. If you’re buying pre-owned, it pays to shop around, and you might find an owner with plenty of additional customizations to their boat.

The good news for buyers is that pre-owned boats don’t fetch any extra market value for the accessories and extras included in the vessel. So, there’s a chance you could find a fully-kitted boat at a great price on the secondary market.

Regardless of the layout, most trawlers come with the following design features.

Berths and Cabins

The large displacement hull of the trawler means that there is plenty of room for a large berth. The size of the berth depends largely on the length of the boat. Depending on the boat manufacturing brand and the layout, a 40-foot trawler may accommodate up to eight to six people.

The berth usually features four small living quarters with bunk beds or full-size queen beds. The range of finishes and fittings varies depending on the price of the boat and the manufacturing brand .

Most trawlers under 40-feet come with a center cockpit and aft cabin layout. You’ll find a standard-sized bedroom and queen size bed in the aft, separated from the other living quarters.

These berths are far more spacious and accommodative than v-berths, and the cabin with Pullman berth, typically in the bow of the boat, provides a standard size bed with enough room to sit up in bed.

Dining and Entertainment Salon

The salon is the lounge and dining area of the boat, and it’s where people hang out during the day. Salons vary widely in design, depending on the manufacturer.

Some features, such as a drop-leaf folding table in the salon center, might make no sense to the design, making it hard to walk around the table. Some plans also offer you better natural lighting than others.

Look at the positioning of the port hatches and lights to get an idea of the light you’ll get inside the salon. You don’t want to feel like you’re living in a cold basement. Most trawler designs offer better lighting in the salon compared to other styles of boats.

Many have panoramic windows and other features to bring in more natural light. However, the more glass on the boat, the higher the price tag.

If you’re out at sea for a few days, you’re going to need somewhere to cook your meals. The galley is a small kitchen in the boa, usually in an L-shape design. The design allows the chef to wedge themselves into the L to give them stability when cooking in rough weather conditions.

Look for features like double-sinks, plenty of counter space, burners, refrigerators, and electrical outlets. Don’t forget about the dedicated storage space for your dinnerware and cookware. If the stove features a propane burner, check to see that you have enough space to fit a 50lbs tank, at minimum.

Captains Cockpit

The captain’s cockpit sits high up on the trawler, overlooking the ocean, giving the driver a 360-degree view of the water. Most cockpits come sealed from the elements, with sides and walls. Some boats may have an open-back design to the cockpit, while others come with folding doors.

A few models come with an open cockpit design featuring waterproof consoles and a windshield. The issue with this design is that it’s not very weather-friendly. You’ll need to invest in a Bimini top for shade and rain protection when driving the boat.

If you’re regularly operating the vessel in cold and rainy conditions, we recommend going with a canvas bridge and full enclosure if you have the budget.

Storage Systems

Boats’ storage space comes at a premium, and the more you have, the better. The galley should feature cupboards for your plates and dry goods, the bedrooms should have closets and drawers for your clothes, and the captain’s area and salon should have enough storage to accommodate your fishing and dive gear.

Older boat models tend to have more storage space than newer designs. The cost of having a streamlined design with spacious living areas means that you have less storage space on modern models.

If you need extra storage space for your boat, consider purchasing dock boxes and using one of the cabins as a storage area.

The head, or the bathroom, differs between boats. The higher the price tag, the better the bathroom. Regardless of the price of the vessel, the head should include a shower, basin, and toilet.

Many boats don’t come with showers, but we recommend going for one with a shower if you can find it; it helps with rinsing the salt from your skin after a dive or swim.

The shower should connect to the water heater, and the boat should come with enough capacity for storing fresh water for a long trip at sea. The larger boats come with two heads on board.

Benefits of Liveaboard Trawlers

The liveaboard trawler offers you a unique on-the-water living experience compared to sailboats and other common watercraft choices for long trips at sea.

Here are the top advantages of buying a liveaboard trawler.

Wide Hulls and Roomy Interiors

As mentioned, the wide displacement hull of the boat means the trawler comes with plenty of generous space below the deck . You get bigger sleeping accommodations and better finishes and fittings than small boats.

Plenty of Headroom

The trawler comes with plenty of headroom, and you’ll find it easy to stand up straight in the bedrooms, kitchen, and salon. They are the ideal entertainment vessel, and they also have plenty of deck space for having a party in great weather.

Superior Stability

The hard chines of the trawler bring exceptional stability to the boat. As a result, there is less rocking effect than in other boat designs using rounded chines.

Shallow Draft

The trawler has a shallow draft, thanks to its displacement hull design. As a result, it’s the ideal choice for navigating through shallow waters where yachts and sailboats can’t go. It’s a great choice for waterways around the Florida Keys, where the water can get shallow fast.

Good Bridge Clearance

Most trawlers are bridge-friendly, and they can sail under without raising the bridge.

Drawbacks of Liveaboard Trawlers

Liveaboard trawlers have a few drawbacks compared to other liveaboard options on the market.

Slow Cruising Speeds

Trawlers are not performance vessels. Most of them reach speeds of between six to seven knots, and they don’t benefit from the wind.

Noisy Engines

The trawler’s engines are noisy, and they can detract from the experience on the vessel.

Trawlers are Thirsty

Trawlers have one of the highest fuel consumption rates of any boat design.

High Maintenance Requirements

The larger the trawler, the larger the maintenance bill.

Hard to Handle in Rough Weather Conditions

The displacement hull in the trawler makes it more suitable for calm weather conditions, and they tend to “slap” on the water in rough weather conditions. Sailboats and other designs will slice through the water.

What Is the Suggested Length for My Liveaboard Trawler?

If you’re looking at sizing your trawler, follow these guidelines.

25-35 feet for singles.
35-45 feet for couples.
40+ feet for four or more people.

Take the Liveaboard Trawler for a Sea Test

We recommend downloading the Boatsetter app. This app is like the Airbnb of the boating industry, and you can rent a trawler directly from its owner. It’s a great way to see if you like the trawler layout and design before finalizing a purchase.

If you get out on the water and find that you don’t like the boat’s handling or the noisy engines , a test drive could end up saving you from making a big mistake. The reality is liveaboard trawlers are expensive boats, and you don’t want to spend all that money to end up with a vessel you don’t like.

Affordable Trawlers Under 40-Feet

Nordhavn 40.

This trawler is an excellent example of a 40 footer that’s a great choice for cruising. The Nordhavn is an established sea-faring brand with a reputation for high-quality builds and designs. It successfully completed a global circumnavigation and the Atlantic crossing.

The N40 is the shortest vessel in the Nordhavn range of ocean-crossing trawlers, and it comes with a real pedigree backing it. You get a full displacement hull design with a 900-gallon fuel capacity providing a range of up to 2,400 nautical miles per tank .

The boat features a buoyant bow design with a dry ride, and the forefoot in the bow design helps the boat cut through the water like a sailboat to avoid slap in choppy conditions. We like the Seakeeper gyro-stabilization system that minimizes rocking and rolling.

With the N40, you get an amazing vessel and one of the highest-quality trawler designs available.

Affordable Trawlers Over 40-Feet

Beneteau swift trawler 44.

The Beneteau “fast” trawler range, including the “Swift Trawler 44,” debuted back in 2011, and it’s one of the top-selling trawlers of the last decade.

You get twin Volvo Penta 300-HP diesel engines, providing a top speed of up to 23+ knots, which is far above the seven to eight knots you’re going to get with most other trawler models. The boat has one of the best cruising speeds in the market, and it comes with an elegant look.

You’ll find plenty of room topside on the deck, and a spacious cockpit in the aft, loaded with teak trim. There’s a large foredeck on the boat ideal for dancing, fishing, or any other activity where you need plenty of room.

The cabin top and sun pad area feature a large flybridge deck and plenty of seating with storage available for an inflatable dinghy. Drop anchor and paddle to the shore of an island for some exploring. The boat’s interior features a two-stateroom design plan, with a master bedroom in the bow and guest accommodation in the aft.

It’s an amazing boat, but it comes with a heavy price tag. The base model starts at $500,000, and you could end up adding another $200,000 in accessories.

Wrapping Up – Get the Best Liveaboard Experience with a Trawler

Whether you’re going out on the ocean for a liveaboard dive trip, or you need the boat for a few days to go on a deep-sea fishing trip, the trawler is a great choice. This boat is a cruiser’s dream with plenty of space, luxury accommodations, and living quarters.

John is an experienced journalist and veteran boater. He heads up the content team at BoatingBeast and aims to share his many years experience of the marine world with our readers.

A Complete Guide to Micro Skiffs: All You Need to Know!

A complete guide to narrow boats: all you need to know, a guide to aluminum fishing boats.

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Trawlers are a very distinct type of powerboat, designed for long-distance cruising and in many cases, living aboard for significant stretches of time. The origin of trawlers can be traced back to commercial fishing trawler boats.

In this day and age, most trawlers have all the comforts of home—and there are plenty of trawler yachts that place you squarely in the lap of luxury.

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Activities with Trawlers

GREAT FOR Overnight Cruising • Day Cruising

Trawlers are intended for cruising, and many people spend extended vacations taking a trawler boat from port to port. There are also a lot of people who search high and low for the best trawler to live on, and then move aboard.

Long-distance cruising at a leisurely pace

Because trawlers are designed with private staterooms, full kitchens (though we call them the “galley,” aboard a boat), and spacious living rooms (the nautical name for them is “saloon”), trawlers are ideal for people who believe that when it comes to long-distance cruising, half the fun is getting there. Most are designed to cruise in a slow and economical way, so you can enjoy the ride from start to finish.

Cruising the intercoastal waterway

The trawler design is very popular among “snow-birds” who take their boats south down the intercoastal waterway in the winter, then cruise back up it for the summer months. Many people (often retirees) make this trip season after season.

Consuming less fuel—providing exception range

Since the best trawlers for slow and steady voyages need to be fuel-efficient, many builders design them with relatively small powerplants and displacement hulls (boat bottoms which merely slice through the water, rather than using lots of power to break free of the water and skim across the surface at high speed). This gives them exceptional range and if you want a real super trawler, it’s even possible to find some with ocean-crossing abilities. However, if you want the ability to get where you’re going in short order there’s also more than one fast trawler manufacturer out there. Though there’s always a trade-off between speed and efficiency, even a fast trawler often has better fuel economy than many other types of powerboats.

Spacious interior layouts for a great weekend escape

Since trawlers are designed for spending lots of time aboard, even a small trawler usually has the maximum amount of cabin space possible for its size. Some have “aft cabins” built under the rear of the boat, and larger models often have multiple deck levels.

Ownership Costs of Trawlers

The size of the trawler you buy will be the biggest determining factor, when it comes to ownership cost. Remember that the larger the boat is, the more it will cost to rent or lease a slip, too. Finding the best trawler for the money really depends on your personal budget, and how much room you feel you need to live comfortably. Visit our Boat Loan Calculator to learn more about the costs of ownership fitting with into your budget.

Since trawlers tend to get used extensively and sometimes continually, they may have slightly higher maintenance costs than some other types of boats. They also have many of the same systems a house would (like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC). However, these systems are smaller and more contained than those of a house. So, in the long run, maintenance costs likely to be far less than they would with an abode you live in on dry land.

Thanks to their efficiency, unlike many types of powerboats fuel costs associated with a trawler are usually minimal. Instead, the main operation cost is general living expenses – things like food and drink supplies – since so many people spend extended periods of time aboard. In addition, you should also plan in insurance costs (see Insuring Your Boat for more info).

Trawler Boat Technology/Materials/Features

You might guess that their traditional design and heritage means that trawlers haven’t changed much over the years, but that would be a mistake. New hull designs developed an entire genre of trawler dubbed the “slow-fast,” which has the ability to cruise at slow speeds with relatively good fuel efficiency, but can also jump on plane (when most of the boat rises out of the water and skims on the surface), when and if necessary. In other cases, advancements in construction materials has allowed trawler manufacturers to reduce a boat’s weight, without giving up one bit of strength. Modern lighter weight construction techniques have also made it possible to build trailerable trawlers that may be relatively small, but still have all the comforts of home and can be towed by many pick-up trucks and SUVs.

Explore Similar Boat Types

Motor Yacht/Power Cruiser

Cabin Cruiser

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6 ultimate island-hopping itineraries for 2024

Explore the world from the deck of your own yacht with a skippered charter, bareboat or flotilla holiday. Whether you’re a first-timer, a foodie or a family, there’s a sailing itinerary to suit every type of traveller.

Craving a holiday with the freedom to escape the crowds and explore hidden coves, secluded bays and uninhabited islands? Dreaming of anchoring somewhere to take a dip without another person in sight? Sailing enables you to access remote spots that are often inaccessible by land and to experience the diversity of a region, exploring islands, villages and resorts in a single trip. Whether you're just starting out, or keen to set out with little ones in tow, these itineraries suit every type of sailor.

1. Best for first timers: British Virgin Islands (BVIs)

Calm seas, sheltered anchorages, reliable steady trade winds and easy line-of-sight sailing make the BVIs one of the world’s best sailing destinations for less experienced sailors. The proximity of its islands also means you only need to sail for an hour or two to gain a sense of adventure and achievement as you successfully navigate to the next port of call. Set sail in Tortola and continue on to Virgin Gorda to witness The Baths, a geological wonder made up of granite boulders that stretch down the beach into the sea. Look out for hawksbill turtles as you sail on to tiny specks of land such as the idyllic Saba Rock, and be sure to end the day with a rum cocktail or two at one of the region’s many laid-back bars, which are often perched on unblemished stretches of white sand.

2. Best for families: Croatia

The calm, clear waters of the Adriatic combined with favourable weather conditions in summer provide easy sailing for families and, with more than 1,000 islands dotted along the Dalmatian Coast, there’s a range of activities and attractions with short hops to keep kids engaged. Set sail from the picturesque marina village of Agana and cruise gently to islands such as Brač, Šolta and Hvar, encouraging children to help out on board while keeping an eye out for passing dolphins. With their sheltered bays and clear waters, these islands are ideal stops for families. Spend an afternoon paddling in Brač’s Bobovišća Bay, before setting sail for the remote islands of the Kornati Archipelago, a wild and beautiful national park known for its empty hiking trails. Sailing stops here can be educational, too, with a plethora of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and picturesque port towns steeped in history.

3. Best for food-lovers: Italy

Why base yourself on land to sample Italy’s incredible gastronomy when you can sail from region to region tasting the very best food and wine at numerous ports of call? Sunsail’s SailEatalia’s Italian Cuisine Procida Flotilla departs from the glamourous port town of Procida and sails to the Pontine Islands along the sun-soaked Amalfi Coast, offering stops to taste local cuisine, from classic dishes to regional delicacies as well as the country’s finest wine. Sample Ischia's iconic stewed rabbit in an independent restaurant at the top of a mountain or try the Italian coastal delicacy alici da portare (pasta with anchovies, olives and capers) in the quaint fishing village of Cetara.

4. Best for winter sun: Antigua

Gloriously warm weather between December and May and around 365 powdery white beaches lapped by clear waters make Antigua a popular winter sun destination for British travellers. Sailors can also relax knowing the region has consistent trade winds, safe anchorages and fairly short distances between ports, giving you more time to explore a variety of attractions at your own pace. Drop anchor in Deep Bay to snorkel around the famous shipwreck the Andes , discover uninhabited islands and visit famous places like Nelson’s Dockyard to sip cocktails and dance to the lively music of traditional steel bands.

5. Best for culture vultures: Croatia

A cultural treasure trove with 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites ranging from Roman fortresses to hilltop castles, Croatia is a mecca for sailors with a penchant for history and art. Start and finish a week’s charter in Dubrovnik to explore one of the best-preserved medieval walled cities on Earth, touring ancient citadels and Renaissance palaces, and be sure to include Lokrum, home to the ruins of a Benedictine monastery. Sail north and discover Mljet National Park and the island getaway of Korčula, thought to be the birthplace of famed explorer Marco Polo, where museums, galleries and excellent restaurants line the beautiful cobbled streets and defensive walls of the town.

6. Best for island-hopping: Greece

With thousands of islands scattered fairly close together, sailing from one to another is a breeze with the promise of a remote white sand or perfect pebble beach around every headland. Sailors are spoilt for choice, but the Ionian Islands, off the west coast of the mainland, are ideal for beginners looking for tranquil stretches of gin-clear water with light winds and warm temperatures in summer. Sail to Ithaca or Kefaloni in the south or to Lefkas, Paxos, Antipaxos and Corfu. While Corfu is known for its party vibe and high-end beach bars, others, like tiny Antipaxos, feature just a scattering of houses, no proper roads and a couple of charming waterside tavernas where you can watch local fishermen bring in the day's catch.

How to plan the ultimate island-hopping adventure in the Philippines

A Caribbean island-hopping adventure in St Vincent & the Grenadines

A guide to island-hopping in the Seychelles

A break in Llandudno, a vintage Welsh beachside resort with enduring appeal

Why Pensacola is Florida’s ultimate coastal escape

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Florida News | Go inside research boat that studies…

Breaking News

Florida news | rep. carolina amesty notarized document that teacher says he never signed | special report, florida news, subscriber only, florida news | go inside research boat that studies florida’s overheated corals.

The Coral Reef II is docked in Miami on March 13, 2024. The research team left that morning for Key Largo.(Tampa Bay Times)

While you might first notice the glossy super yachts or a fishing trawler on the Miami River, there’s also an 80-foot vessel packed not with partiers, but scientists, trying to protect the coral offshore.

Bridget Coughlin, the CEO of the Chicago-based Shedd Aquarium, said their research vessel named the Coral Reef II is docked in Miami because of the diversity of marine life in the area.

“We teach climate change through empathy with animals,” said Coughlin. “If you talk about how otters are starving, that empathy for that otter is going to catalyze you to act.”

The vessel can go out to sea for three weeks at a time and can travel as far south as the Dominican Republic. The researchers study a plethora of animals including queen conch, endangered rock iguanas, sharks and climate change’s impact on the coral reef. From March through October, the crew often works days that stretch from 7 a.m. to midnight.

How to come aboard the research vessel

The Coral Reef II also acts as a live-in laboratory for aspiring marine biologists. High school and college students can go on a weeks-long journey that includes snorkeling in crystal-clear water with Caribbean reef sharks and working side-by-side with scientists. Chuck Knapp, a 30-year employee of Shedd and the head of conservation on the vessel, said he got his start that way.

Rep. Carolina Amesty notarized document that teacher says he never signed

“I was originally a high school marine biology student back on the boat as a 17-year-old in the late ‘80s so it’s been a thrill of a lifetime to come back,” Knapp, who gave a tour of the vessel in the video said.

This summer, high schoolers will be taking a trip to the Bahamas to learn about how to protect dolphins, snorkel shipwrecks and observe firsthand from Shedd’s shark research biologist.

Conducting research on coral reefs bleaching

One of the most unique parts of the vessel is its live well system, which consists of large built-in tanks at the front of the boat filled with seawater.

These mini aquariums are a safe harbor for wildlife that scientists are trying to study or move. The live well system makes it easy to scoop marine life like coral up, perform heat stress tests and return them back to sea in hours.

Ross Cunning, a coral biologist with Shedd, said researchers can use technology onboard to test how well the coral absorbs sunlight and observe what temperature and speed cause corals to bleach.

Mark Schick, the senior director of animal operations on the Coral Reef II research vessel owned by Shedd aquarium, dumps water overboard. (Tampa Bay Times)

Even two corals of the same species might bleach at different speeds, and they’re looking for the most heat tolerant coral, Cunning said.

Last summer he worked alongside South Florida research groups, like the University of Miami, the Coral Restoration Foundation, and Reef Renewal to test snippets of these baby corals in nurseries that have been growing in higher water temperatures.

“Finding interventions to boost the heat tolerance in coral reefs is more important than ever,” Cunning said. “But the most critical thing we need to do is stop climate change.

“All the research in the world will not boost coral heat tolerance enough to cope with oceans that continue warming. We must stop the root of the problem and stop greenhouse gas emissions as quickly as possible.”

More in Florida News

The “free kill” provision of Florida’s Wrongful Death Act makes it so if a doctor’s mistake kills someone who’s over 25, unmarried, and without children under 25, no one can sue the doctor on their behalf.

Health | Despite momentum, ‘free kill’ malpractice repeal fails in Florida this year

The new Apple TV+ series “Palm Royale,” streaming now, is set in Palm Beach and is about a woman’s efforts to enter high society.

Carol Burnett, Ricky Martin star in new Florida-based TV show

With the Florida Supreme Court deciding whether an abortion-rights constitutional amendment should go on the November ballot, Attorney General Ashley Moody's office and abortion opponents are urging justices to consider another part of the state Constitution that they say could apply to "unborn children."

Politics | Abortion opponents urge Florida Supreme Court to consider ‘unborn children’

More than 13,000 acres of agricultural land in Osceola and Highlands County will never be developed under two conservation easements made final on Monday by the Florida Department of Agriculture.

Florida News | State preserves 13,000 acres of Osceola, Highlands County land

IMAGES

Differences living aboard a trawler vs. a sailboat
TRAWLER VS SAILBOAT Which Is Better For Live-aboard And Cruising?
newly introduced canadian built trawler yacht (cape sable grace ) built
The Evolution of the Trawler Yacht
1950's converted trawler. Perfect live-aboard.
TRAWLER YACHT 48, trawlers, passagemakers, live-aboard, Bruce Roberts

VIDEO

😃 Million Dollar 🛥s
A closer look at the BENETEAU Grand Trawler 62
Nomadic Trawler Short #thegreatloop #boat
DIESEL DUCK
Sailboat to Trawler/Shanty Conversion (ep9) Steering
Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 at the Paris Boat Show

COMMENTS

Sailboat vs. Trawler: What's the Difference?
Cons of Sailboats. The costs of maintaining a sailboat increase with its age, and in general, they require more routine maintenance compared to other vessels. Sailboats do not offer a lot of speed compared to engine-based vessels like trawlers. On average, they may reach a max speed of 7 knots (13 km/h).
Trawler vs. Sail
Trawler vs. Sail. Trawler versus sail—a comparison that is often dismissed as an old-person versus young-person, apples-to-oranges argument. It's assumed that a sailor will sail until his hands are too crippled to manage a line any longer, then buy a trawler that will sit dockside, until one day a dockmaster is notified of a disturbing smell coming from "that boat the old guy lives in."
Differences living aboard a trawler vs. a sailboat
Storage. Our sailboat has ample storage room like under the settee cushions. The trawler may win the space category, but it's the sailboat for the win in the storage category. Our sailboat doesn't have all that extra open space like a trawler, but it certainly makes the most use of the space it has. In the galley, my cabinet space was tiny ...
Trawler Vs Yacht Guide 2023
Small trawler boats can range from $50,000 to $200,000, while larger trawler yachts can cost several million dollars. It's important to consider your budget and specific requirements when determining the price range that suits you best. In conclusion, trawlers and yachts offer distinct advantages depending on your boating preferences.
TRAWLER VS SAILBOAT Which Is Better For Live-aboard And Cruising
http://tulasendlesssummer.com Which is better for cruising and live aboard, a Trawler or a Sailboat. We get this question all the time since we have lived fu...
The Liveaboard Trawler: Is It the Best Boat for Your Nautical Life?
Trawlers need more maintenance. There are more things that can go wrong or break on a trawler, such as electronics, propellers and engines. The physical size of a trawler necessitates more boat soap, cleaning products and routine maintenance than a sailboat. Trawlers are harder to handle in bad weather.
Trawlers: A Comprehensive Guide
What is a Trawler. Trawlers are boats with relatively large cabins designed for extended stays aboard and long voyages. Most offer slow but efficient displacement cruising speeds, and while few older trawlers could plane, many new ones do have a bit more "get home power" and speed which can be used when maximizing efficiency isn't the primary concern.
A Complete Guide to Trawler Boats: All You Need to Know!
A Trawler is an ocean-going fishing boat provides a full or semi-displacement hull ideal with a ballasted design offering you excellent economy as the boat planes through the water. As a result, they are suitable for long trips, spending days or weeks out on the water between refueling. The trawler is ideal for slow cursing along the coastline ...
A Journey from Sailboat to Trawler
A trawler requires major preventative maintenance on its diesel engine. While they are work horses, diesels are very unforgiving if neglected, and 80 percent of owners do just that, according to marine surveyors. On this subject, we were naïve and if we had it to do over we would get a separate engine survey.
Choosing the right liveaboard boat
We learned from them that trawler style boats are made for longer passages (larger fuel and water tanks), living aboard and offer good living and storage space. Motor Yachts are similar to trawlers but typically they have 2 engines and a planing hull, so they aren't as fuel efficient or economical. They do typically have more living space ...
Catamaran Vs. Trawler (A Complete Comparison)
A catamaran is a two-hulled sailboat that you can power by either a sailor or a propeller (two diesel engines). Trawlers, on the other hand, are single-hulled, diesel-powered displacement boats. Even if trawlers are more adept at loading, cats are more efficient and reliable.
What's the BEST Boat to Live on? || Trawler VS. Sailboat VS. Catamaran
Why did we buy a trawler? What are the benefits of a catamaran? What are the cost differences between the 3 types of boats? What kind of boat should my famil...
Coming To The Dark Side: Moving From A Sailboat To A Trawler
Trawlers also offer improved visibility from inside and outside the boat, compared to the sight lines from the cockpit of a sailboat. Running along in the pilothouse of a Northern Marine , Endurance , or Northwest yacht , the watch is both comfortable and situationally aware of the waterways, other boats in the area, even the marine life.
sailboat v. trawler
The higher speed aspect of running a trawler is quickly mitigated by the fact that most trawlers see HUGE increases in fuel consumption if you try to go faster than 8-10 knots. Really, if you're looking at gunkholing, the difference between a sailboat travelling at 6 knots and a trawler travelling at 8 knots is minimal.
The Ultimate Trawler Boat Buying Guide
The Ultimate Trawler Boat Buying Guide. I have been writing about trawlers and powerboat cruising for many years. It is both an obsession and a fascination for me, as I witness hundreds of people, mostly couples, embrace the trawler lifestyle as a healthy alternative to routine living on land. While the last several years certainly got a lot of ...
Sailboat or trawler?
A trawler is certainly doable. If you throttle back to sailboat speeds, you won't see much difference in fuel consumption while motoring. . . You will see a significant difference in fuel consumption, sailboats and powerboats have fundamentally different hull shapes except in a few cases. I have acquaintances that took a Nordhaven RTW, averaged ...
A Complete Guide to Liveaboard Trawlers: All You Need to Know
The reality is liveaboard trawlers are expensive boats, and you don't want to spend all that money to end up with a vessel you don't like. Affordable Trawlers Under 40-Feet NordHavn 40. This trawler is an excellent example of a 40 footer that's a great choice for cruising. The Nordhavn is an established sea-faring brand with a reputation ...
Trawler Boat Buying Guide 2023
A trawler boat for sale has the seaworthiness, ability, and range to reach remote anchorages, provide extended accommodations, and be able to carry, launch, and retrieve a tender. A full-displacement hull form boat for sale can be also a functional boat, with wide interior spaces and can be ideal for overnight cruising or day boating.
Sailboat vs Trawler: When To Use Each One In Writing?
A sailboat is a type of boat that is propelled by sails, while a trawler is a type of boat that is typically powered by an engine and used for fishing or cruising. While both boats have their advantages and disadvantages, the choice ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs.
Trawler Boats Guide
Trawlers are designed for function first, which makes them excellent boats for beginners or experienced sailors. The proven design of a trawler yacht means that it's easy to drive and can stay stable in rough weather. The stability comes from a wide, ballasted hull which keeps the boat balanced in high seas or strong winds.
Trawler or sailboat?
A friend of mine is retiring, and knowing that I had a sailboat and now have a trawler, confided that he is strongly considering selling or renting his house, buying a boat, and doing the cruising life. His question to me was whether I would advise him to get a trawler or a sailboat. I found this a rather hard question to answer.
Trawler
Trawler. 10 passengers max. 26 - 50 ft long. Not Trailerable. Trawlers are a very distinct type of powerboat, designed for long-distance cruising and in many cases, living aboard for significant stretches of time. The origin of trawlers can be traced back to commercial fishing trawler boats. In this day and age, most trawlers have all the ...
Sailboat to Trawler
Tom offers up a succinct comparison: "A trawler is a powerboat, but it is just a slightly faster sailboat that does not have to wait for bridges.". Tadhana, Tom Hale's Helmsman Pilothouse 38. The couple typically cruise at six to 7.2 knots. Although at faster speeds, fuel consumption ramps up dramatically, at their cruising norm, they ...
6 ultimate island-hopping itineraries for 2024
Explore the world from the deck of your own yacht with a skippered charter, bareboat or flotilla holiday. Whether you're a first-timer, a foodie or a family, there's a sailing itinerary to ...
Go inside research boat that studies Florida's overheated corals
While you might first notice the glossy super yachts or a fishing trawler on the Miami River, there's also an 80-foot vessel packed not with partiers, but scientists, trying to protect the coral ...