Whether you are looking to embark on America’s Great Loop, putter up and down the Intracoastal Waterway, or cruise to the Bahamas, boat ownership is a dream for many boating enthusiasts. Choosing the right boat is crucial to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Let’s explore the different types of pleasure boats suitable for longer-range cruising.
In the cruising world, there are two distinct groups of boats: Power and Sail. For most boat owners, you are either one or the other! We will save the debate about Sail vs. Power for another article, but suffice it to say before you start boat shopping, you need to make up your mind about which you prefer.
Once you’ve decided whether you are a Blowboater (sail) or a Stinkpot (power), you can start narrowing down your choice of vessel style. If you look online at the boats for sale websites, like Boat Trader, Boats.com, or Yacht World, you will soon see that there are 50 or more Types or Classes of boats listed. While there is a general understanding of what defines each type, the powerboat industry has no hard and fast rules.
Sailboats have slightly more strict naming conventions, with types like Dinghys, Cutters, Slops, Ketches, and Schooners, but again, variations abound.
Another variation in sail and power boats is the number of hulls. In both power and sail categories, boats with a single hull are referred to as monohulls. Boats with more than one hull are commonly referred to as multihulls. These include catamarans (two hulls bridged together) and trimarans (three hulls bridged together).
Our Target Vessels
This article is aimed at new boaters so we won’t delve into the specific nuances of each type of boat. We are focusing on boats suitable for longer-range cruising and will not discuss smaller power or sailboats. Additionally, many boats may fit into multiple categories based on their configuration and individual opinions, and we will address the crossovers where relevant.
For longer-range cruising, we assume that the boat is over 25 feet long and has a sleeping berth (bedroom), a galley (kitchen), and a head (bathroom). These may just be areas in the boat’s interior or, on larger boats, be separate rooms.
Yes, you CAN cruise without these amenities, but we hope you are looking toward pleasure boating, not camping. Additionally, since we are looking at boats that are typically used along the Intracoastal Waterway, The Great Loop, and near-shore sailing, we will also add the additional restriction that they are less than 65 feet in length.
Sailing Vessels
We will loosely define a sailing vessel as any vessel that can be propelled solely by the wind. Most sailing vessels, especially those in the cruising category, will have some axillary power source, such as an inboard or outboard engine. We will break Sailing Vessels into three broad categories…
- Single Masted Sloop
- Two Masted Ketch
- Multihull (catamarans, trimarans)
The Single Masted Sloop
The single-masted Sloop is probably the most common class of Cruising sailboats. Many manufacturers make them, with some of the most popular being Beneteau, Catalina, Danfoth, Hunter, Island Packet, and Jeanneau. These will typically have one to three sails, an open cockpit steering location, and an enclosed salon with a galley, berths, and head. Most Sloops in the cruising class have a small inboard engine capable of propelling the boat at 3-8 knots (4-9 mph).
Dual Masted Ketch
Dual-masted Ketch-style sailboats are less common among cruisers. They are typically slightly larger than Sloops and, with dual masts, take some additional handling skills. Most of the Ketches you see on the waterways are older, typically built before 2008. Some of the more common makers are Allied, Person, Cherubini, Formosa, Gulfstar, Morgan, and Oyster.
You will find that Ketches are more popular for offshore sailing as they have deeper drafts and require more open water for sailing. Looking at online listings, you will find quite a few on the West Coast.
Multihull Sailboats
Catamarans are quite popular among Cruisers due to their extra roomy salons. Their wide beams make Catamarans quite stable, which is another benefit. As with all things boats, there are tradeoffs. First, many catamarans have their berths and heads in the two hulls. These are quite narrow compared to a monohull sailboat so that the space can feel quite cramped. Also, most catamarans have two engines, one in each hull. This means double the maintenance. One other consideration with a catamaran is the extra width. At the same time, monohull sailboats will fit into most marina slips. Catamarans with their extra width may have more difficulty finding docking space as they typically need extra wide slips or docking on the ends of face docks.
Power Vessels
We defined Sailing Vessels as those that the wind can propel. So, we will define Power Vessels as those that can not be powered solely by the wind and are typically powered by dead dinosaurs. (Although electric cruising boats are making some inroads).
Powerboat Classes
As with sailboats, the classes or types of power vessels are broad, with many highbreds and exceptions. When talking with other boaters, you will find that there are some generally recognized classes of power boats. In alphabetical order…
- Cruiser – Variations: Cabin Cruisers, Sports Cruisers
- Cuddy Cabin
- Downeast
- Houseboat
- Motorsailer
- Motor Yacht
- Power Cat
- Trawler – Variations: Expedition Trawler, Fast Trawler
- Tugs
Again, this article focuses on longer-range Cruising boats, so we will skip all of the day boat classes (bowriders, bass boats, jet boats, pontoon boats, sportfishing boats, walkarounds, and the rest) and refer to these as Powered Cruisers.
Common Variations
There are a few common variations among many Powered Cruisers classes. Some will consider these to be in their own class, but to keep this article at a reasonable length, we will consider these variations. These are:
Aft-Cabin – Having the master berth (bedroom) in the stern of the boat. Again, many Cruisers and Trawlers are designed with aft-cabins. An aft-cabin has the advantage of usually being roomier and quieter as they don’t get as much wave slap on the hull. The disadvantage to an Aft-Cabin is that if you can’t get off from the rear swim platform because you are on a short dock or a dinghy blocks your stairs/ladder, it can require a step ladder to get on and off the boat.
Cruisers
Cruisers are the quintessential pleasure boats, providing comfort and speed. These versatile vessels can easily navigate faster waters, often exceeding 10 knots, and provide luxurious amenities. SeaRay is arguably the most common cruiser-style boat you will see on the water. Some other popular manufacturers are Azimut, Bayliner, Beneteau, Carver, Cruisers Yachts, Formula, Hatteras, Meridian, Princess, Regal, and Tiara.
Common naming variations are the “Cabin Cruiser” and the “Sport Cruiser. ” Modern Cruisers with twin engines are typically considered “Fast” boats or Sport Cruisers. Cabin Cruisers are typically older, larger boats that, while equipped with twin engines, have displacement hulls and top speeds under ten mph.
A Flybridge is also a common option on many cruiser-type boats. However, many cruisers, especially older models with a flybridge, may have only a steering station on the flybridge and no lower steering station. This is commonly called a “Sedan Bridge” or “Command Bridge”.
The advantage of the Sedan Bridge design is that you have more living space in the salon by not having a steering station in the lower portion of the boat. It also reduces complexity and cost as you only deal with one set of control and navigation electronics. The downside to the Sedan Bridge is that unless you are a hardy soul, you will want to enclose the flybridge to operate in wet or cold conditions.
Cruisers offer a unique blend of luxury and functionality, making them popular with many cruising enthusiasts. One of the primary advantages of the cruiser style is their versatility; these vessels are designed for both day trips and extended voyages, accommodating a range of activities, from fishing to leisurely cruising. With comfortable sleeping quarters, a galley, and a bathroom, cabin cruisers provide the comforts of home on the water, allowing families and groups to spend extended periods without needing to return to shore. These boats typically feature spacious decks, making them ideal for socializing and entertaining guests.
On the downside, cabin cruisers tend to be taller and have a lot of windage (large flat surfaces for the wind to push against), making them harder to handle in windy conditions. With Aft-Cabin designs, the height is also a factor in getting on and off the boat, as you can have 6 feet between the deck and the dock, meaning that ladders or stairs are required. If you have mobility issues, an aft-cabin Cruiser is probably not for you.
Cuddy Cabin
A Cuddy Cabin is probably the smallest class of boat that is acceptable for longer-range cruising. A cuddy cabin is a boat with a small enclosed cabin, usually in the bow, that provides a space for the basic galley, berth, and usually a head. Cutwater is the most recognized Cuddy Cabin brand. Other common Cuddy Cabin style boats seen cruising are the Albin, Boston-Whaler, Evans, Grady-White, and Jeanneau NC Series. Some of the smaller Tug-style boat models, such as Ranger, American, and Nordic Tugs, also fall into the Cuddy Cabin class.
Many manufacturers have boats with small berths in the bow. However, we are concentrating on those who are comfortable with extended cruising.
Many Cuddy Cabin class boats are equipped with outboard motors as they tend to be smaller and have limited interior space. Cuddy Cabin class boats are usually under 35 feet in length. Due to their small size, flybridges and aft cabins are uncommon.
The main advantage of the Cuddy Cabin style is the small size. They are easier to afford, easy to operate, and economical, yet they still provide some common comforts. We’ve met several people who have made the Great Loop in a cuddy cabin and enjoyed it. Another advantage is that due to its small size, it can be trailered between locations, giving you options on where and when you can cruise. If you plan on cruising single-handed (one person), the ease of operation and small footprint are a definite advantage.
The downside is pretty much the same as the upside. They are small. A Cuddy is like living in a tiny house. If you are stuck inside for a few days in bad weather, cabin fever can develop quickly. Also, being small, cuddy cabins won’t handle heavy weather well, so you must monitor wave heights and wind conditions. Also, while you might squeeze three people on for an overnight, you’d better be close friends, as there is not a lot of interior room.
Downeast
The Downeast style refers to the style of lobster boats in Downeast Maine. The design features a long, low cabin and a large open cockpit for hauling up lobster pots. These also are referred to as Picnic Boats. There has been a recent resurgence of this style, especially in the high-end market. Manufacturers like Back Cove, Grand Banks, Hinkley, MJM, and Sabre.
The design typically features a shallow draft, a gentle sheer line, and a broad beam, which promotes stability and comfort on the water. One of the defining characteristics of Downeast boats is their traditional, often semi-displacement or planing hull, which allows for efficient cruising at moderate speeds while providing a smooth ride in choppy waters.
Downeast boats are known for their spacious cockpits, comfortable cabins, and ample storage, making them ideal for day trips or extended voyages. Many models come equipped with powerful diesel engines, offering efficiency and longevity. Additionally, the high-quality materials used in their construction, such as wood and fiberglass, contribute to their durability and elegance.
Downeast boats have excellent stability and seaworthiness, making them perfect for families and recreational boaters. They are also relatively easy to handle, which makes them accessible for less experienced operators. However, Downeast boats may come with a higher price tag compared to more modern motorboats. Their performance is generally optimized for cruising rather than speed, which may not appeal to all boaters. Additionally, the maintenance of traditional materials can require significant upkeep to preserve their aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
Houseboat
Initially, I had decided to skip houseboats as a longer-range cruiser. Then Brenda reminded me that we have seen several on the Great Loop, especially the Canadian Canals. There are lots of them on the western lakes as well.
Let me start by saying that houseboats generally don’t have any business in the open waters of the ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, or even the Great Lakes or the major river systems. While they are great on lakes and canals, their lack of power, lack of maneuverability, and overall windage make them a dangerous choice for larger open water. It’s sort of like, “Can you jump out of an airplane with an umbrella and survive?” well, “Maybe.” “Should you jump out of an airplane with an umbrella?” definitely “No!”
Houseboats are charming floating homes that provide a unique living experience right on the water! These cozy abodes often come equipped with the comforts of traditional houses, including kitchens, bathrooms, and spacious living areas, making them perfect for both full-time living and vacations. Common features of houseboats typically include large windows for stunning views, outdoor decks for lounging, and sometimes even rooftop terraces. The pros of living on a houseboat include a tranquil lifestyle surrounded by nature and leisurely exploring waterways.
Houseboats are designed for families and groups. They typically have multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, and extensive relaxation space, including built-in grills, hot tubs, fireplaces, and bars.
Think of a Houseboat as a Pontoon boat on steroids. Most of them feature multiple air-filled chambers for flotation and are powered by outboard motors. The interiors of houseboats can rival elegant condos! In protected waters with little current, houseboats are excellent leisurely vacation homes. However, introduce some wind, current, or waves, and they quickly go from houseboats to houses of horror! Those with internal engines are typically gas-powered and are expensive to run and maintain.
As we mentioned, we met a few houseboats out on the Great Loop. However, they were frequently stuck in port for weeks waiting for the rare “Perfect Weather Day.” If you are looking for a longer-duration cruiser, we recommend giving Houseboats a miss. A houseboat may be for you if you are on a lake or protected waterway like the Canadian Canals. If you want a week or a weekend on the water, renting a houseboat is a great idea.
Motorsailer
A motorsailer is a type of boat that combines the features of a traditional sailing vessel with the functionality of a motorboat, allowing it to utilize both sail and engine power for propulsion. The motorsailer concept emerged in the early 20th century when boatbuilders sought to create vessels that could offer the advantages of both sailing and motoring, particularly in varying weather conditions. Historically, motorsailers gained popularity during the 1970s and 1980s, especially as advancements in engine technology made them more reliable for cruising and long-distance voyages. These boats typically feature a larger engine than traditional sailboats, along with a mainsail and often a foresail, allowing for versatile performance on the water.
The inside of a motorsailer is similar in design to that of a sailboat; however, they typically have a wider beam like a trawler, so there is more room internally. Also, an enclosed pilot house is common on motorsailers, which provides more protection during bad weather.
The primary advantages of motorsailers include their versatility, smooth navigation regardless of wind conditions, and the ability to cover long distances quickly when necessary, thanks to their engines. They are also quite stable when sailing due to their larger hull designs, providing comfort for passengers. However, there are some drawbacks; motorsailers can be more complex to operate than pure sailboats, requiring knowledge of both sailing and motoring techniques. Additionally, maintaining a motorsailer can involve higher costs, given the need to care for both the rigging and the engine, and they consume more fuel compared to dedicated sailboats when not under sail.
Most of the newer motorsailers are custom-built designs that fit an individual’s specifications. The only manufacturer we are aware of that has a production Motorsailer is Nordhaven, which has a 56-foot model.
Motor Yacht
The Motor Yacht is a high-bred of the Trawler and Cruiser class of boats. That said, the Motor Yacht style historically preceded the Cruiser class. The Chris-Craft and the Hatteras Motor Yachts are the two most recognizable Motor Yachts.
The classic Motor Yacht is typically an aft-cabin design with a displacement hull and a top speed under ten mph. Many Hatteras Motor Yachts still have their old Detroit Diesel engines plying the Intracoastal Waterway. They are truly classic boats with large interior spaces similar to modern aft-cabin cruisers.
Hatteras still builds motor yachts as a custom order. However, they are currently focused on the Sportfish style of boat. Chris Craft also no longer manufactures motor yachts. They have focused on smaller day boats.
Today, the Motor Yacht typically refers to vessels 75 feet and up, which are too large to be appropriate for coastal cruising or looping. The Cruiser and Trawler class covers the space formerly occupied by the Motor Yacht.
Power Catamaran
Power Catamarans are an exciting and versatile type of boat, gaining popularity among boating enthusiasts for their unique design and practicality. Unlike traditional monohull boats, Power Cats feature two parallel hulls, offering a stable platform and a generous amount of space on board. This dual-hull design helps reduce rolling in rough waters, making them ideal for leisure cruising. Popular Power Cat manufacturers include Aquila, Horizon, Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot, and Prestige, each known for their quality craftsmanship and innovative designs.
One of the standout features of power catamarans is their spaciousness. Two hulls provide ample room for decks, living areas, and cabins, providing comfort for families and friends. Plus, many models have modern amenities, such as full kitchens, spacious lounges, and multiple bedrooms, ensuring you’re never short on comfort during your voyages.
However, like any boat type, power catamarans come with their own set of pros and cons. On the upside, their stability and fuel efficiency make them a favorite among long-distance cruisers. However, the initial cost of purchasing a power catamaran can be higher than that of a traditional single-hull boat, and they may require more upkeep. Also, as with sailing catamarans, the wide beam, 21 feet for the Aquila, can limit docking options in marinas as many have few slips that can accommodate wide vessels.
Trawlers
The concept of recreational trawlers originated from the adaptation of commercial fishing boat designs for pleasure use. Some of the most well-known naval architects who did this include Art DeFever, Bill Garden, Ed Monk Sr., Hugh Angelman, and Kenneth Smith. Some of the more recognized manufacturers of Trawlers are Albin, Beneteau, DeFever, Grand Banks, Great Harbor, Jefferson, Kadie-Krogen, Mainship, Marine Trader, Monk, North Pacific, and Selene.
Trawlers are a popular choice for longer-range cruising due to their efficiency, comfort, and seaworthiness. They are designed for long, leisurely trips with their stable design and offer classic designs with ample living space.
Aside from their distinctive appearance, the basic characteristics defining a trawler are…
- Full displacement or semi-displacement hulls
- A larger fuel capacity
- Slow but efficient cruising speeds, typically under ten mph
- Large cabins
- Windows and side access doors
- Walk around decks often covered.
- A hoist and boat deck for a tender
- A pilothouse or flybridge
- Deep keels
Most traditional trawlers have a single engine and offer excellent fuel economy. Similar to the Cruiser type, Trawlers have evolved over time, and the term now covers a wide variety of styles, including Fast Trawlers, Expedition Trawlers, Pocket Trawlers, and Tugs (we will cover tugs in a separate section below). Trawlers come in many configurations, including open cockpits, covered cockpits, aft cabins, flybridges, and pilothouses.
Most trawlers have a classic varnished wood interior with ample storage and a well-appointed galley area. Some more modern offerings have switched to lighter European-style interiors with laminates and chrome finishes.
Expedition Trawlers
Expedition or “Blue Water” trawlers are a distinct class of vessels. These trawlers are larger in size, usually 45 to 80+ feet, and are specifically designed for open ocean cruising. They feature single-engine configurations and large fuel capacities, allowing for extended cruising ranges of 1,500 to 2,000 miles on a single fuel tank (many can hold over 1,000 gallons). Additionally, they are constructed with watertight doors and built to withstand larger waves and higher winds. Many of these trawlers are equipped with either fin or outrigger-style stabilizers. Expedition trawlers are usually certified under CE Category A or B.
- Category A: Designed for long ocean voyages in winds over 40 knots and waves over 13 feet
- Category B: Can Operate offshore in winds up to 40 knots and waves up to 13 feet
- Category C: Coastal waters, bays, & lakes in winds up to 27 knots and waves up to 7 feet
- Category D: Small lakes and rivers in winds up to 16 knots and waves up to 18 inches
Expedition Trawlers include brands like Bearing, Marlow, Nordhaven, and Selene.
Fast Trawlers
Fast Trawlers are ideal for those who desire the traditional features of a Trawler but with added speed. These boats can exceed 25 knots and usually provide a balance between speed and the benefits of a conventional Trawler. Brands like Beneteau and Mainship offer fast Trawlers that maintain efficiency while allowing you to cover more ground when needed. The main advantage is the increased speed without a significant increase in fuel consumption, though they may be pricier than standard Trawlers.
Our boat, Kissed Some Frogs, is a 2006 Beneteau Swift Trawler 42. Its top speed is 26 knots (30 mph). We normally cruise at 8 to 10 knots to keep our fuel costs in check. However, on long open water crossings, when the waves are choppy and uncomfortable at lower speeds, or when we are trying to make a 100+ mile day, the ability to “go fast” is handy!
Tugs
Many people consider tugs to be funny-looking trawlers. On boats-for-sale websites, most group tugs into the trawler category as they typically have the same features and layout of trawlers, just with a slightly different look. If you talk to a tug owner and call their boat a trawler, well… get ready for a fight!
The most common Tug style manufacturers are American, Nordic, and Ranger Tugs.
The Tug class tends to be smaller boats. Sizes range from 23 to 54 feet, with shorter models equipped with outboard engines. One advantage of the smaller tug design is that, like the Cuddy Cabins, it can be loaded on a trailer and moved from place to place.
The tug design features spacious interiors, large open salons, and open or covered cockpits. Many models come with a Flybridge configuration. The wide, high bow of the Tug design provides stability in the water and excellent maneuverability. Most models are single-engine, but many have semi-displacement or planing hulls, allowing them to reach speeds of 15 knots or more easily.
If you desire a new boat and want to keep within a budget, a Tug style may be for you. They are also excellent for the occasional cruiser, as given their small size, they are economical to operate and maintain. Keep in mind that like the Cuddy Cabin style, the smaller Tugs are not suitable for heavy-weather boating.
We’ve seen many Tugs on the Great Loop, and they are popular options for the cruising couple.
What Boat Is Right For Me?
Your choice of boat should reflect your priorities and budget—be it speed, comfort, luxury, or economy. Whether you want the leisurely pace of a classic Trawler or the speed of a Cruiser Yacht, there’s a vessel out there that’s perfect for your adventure.
Before making a quick decision or ruling out a particular boat type, take the time to look at, and preferably take a cruise in, that type. You may be surprised at how much your opinion of a certain type of boat will change once you have had the chance to get on board. Choosing a boat involves compromise. Do your research and make a list of your “must-have” features, but don’t expect to find everything in your perfect boat.
Bon voyage!
What’s your Dream Boat? Sail or Power? What Style?
Share it in the comments below! 
Leave a Comment