2 man yacht

10 Best Sailboats for Solo Sailing (One Person)

The idea of single-handed sailing or solo sailing appeals to racers and cruisers alike. But what are the best sailboats for solo sailing? Well, let's find out.

Whether you've been thinking of going for a day's sail without assistance or dreaming of a solo passage to Bermuda, the desire and the magic of venturing out alone at the sea is something that any sailor can experience. It doesn't matter if you're cruising or racing, solo sailing, of course, requires you to change your thinking as you'll be solely responsible for the entire operation of the boat. More importantly, choosing a well-founded boat is critical to solo sailing.

When sailing with a crew, things may seem a little easy because you share the responsibilities among the crew and support each other in case of anything. But what happens when you decide to venture out alone or sail single-handedly? Whatever motivates you to go out sailing solo, you should choose a good boat that you can perfectly operate single-handedly.

In this article, we'll highlight 10 best sailboats for solo sailing, their prices, their best rigs, and everything else that you might need to sail them comfortably and safely.

Table of contents

General Features of Best Sailboats for Solo Sailing

Here are the general features to look for when choosing the best sailboat for solo sailing.

The Availability of Automation Systems

The forces that you sometimes have to deal with when out sailing can be extreme, to say the least. It doesn't matter whether you're sailing solo or with a crew, it's always very important not to underestimate the power of the wind and tide. While you can do a lot on your own, having some automation systems in place is an important feature if you're planning to sail single-handedly. In other words, a good sailboat for solo sailing should have various automation systems to make your work a lot simpler.

So if you're planning to go solo sailing, it would be great to consider a boat with the following systems:

• ‍ Autopilot for steering
• Lines running aft (running to the cockpit)
• Roller furling
• Electric windlass
• Hydraulic bow/stern thrusters with remote

Stability and Ease of Use

Again, the best sailboats for solo sailing are generally not known for their speeds. This is because they typically have wide beams and short waterlines, which are vital in providing stability thereby limiting their speeds. In short, the best sailboats for solo sailing usually sacrifice speed and additional performance for ease of use and stability.

Boat Features

When it comes to the structure of the boat itself, it's important to go for a boat that is close to the water, relatively small when compared to the wave height, and has lighter ballast, especially when compared to the displacement ratio. The idea here is that these features can combine to increase the boat's performance when you're sailing solo.

Additionally, a good solo sailing boat should be designed with a flat profiled aft bottom section. This is to ensure that the boat can come up on a plane when the wind conditions are breezy or marginal.

When it comes to the best sails for solo sailing, you can go for the unique sail design that combines both a Bermuda sail and a gaff sail. This can be essential in giving you a more sail area on a shorter mast than is possible when using either a gaff sail or a Bermuda sail. More importantly, the combination of a gaff sail and a Bermuda sail not only gives you a greater sail area on a shorter and easy to control mast but can also reduce the heeling force that's common in boats with taller and narrower sails.

Still on sails, it makes a lot of sense to choose easily operated sail controls. You certainly want a sail that one person can tuck a reef in quickly and be able to easily adjust the sheets. You should, therefore, prioritize the reefing and sail handling systems.

In terms of rigs, the gaff rig is arguably the best when solo sailing. Although the Bermuda rig is the most common, especially in modern sailboats, you can lose some windward abilities because of its lower aspects. As such, you can choose to use the gaff rig thanks to its ease of use and superior downwind performance.

10 Best Sailboats for Solo Sailing

There are numerous sailboats out there that can be easily and properly handled by a skilled and experienced sailor. To make it a lot easier for you, the following boats are great choices when solo sailing. Whether you're just looking to experience how it feels to solo sail or short-handed, they all offer easy, comfortable, and safe sailing.

Jeanneau Sunfast 3200

{{boat-info="/boats/jeanneau-sun-fast-3200"}}

From the outset, it's easy to see that the Jeanneau Sunfast 3200 is designed with offshore short-handed sailing in mind. In addition to being a purist's sailing boat, this boat is a small and light boat that can be easily handled. Even better, it has the stability and strength to handle long passages and that's exactly why it was initially designed with the Trans-Atlantic race in mind.

With this boat, you can easily attain double figures in terms of speed even if you're sailing downwind. In essence, the Sunfast 3200 is designed with some of the latest technology to afford you the best strength-to-weight ratios. It has all the necessary features to allow you to easily adapt it to perform perfectly either as a cruising or racing sailboat. Some of its greatest features include the two double cabins, the chart table, a galley, and a head compartment.

This boat is particularly impressive when sailing off the wind and it's designed to ensure that it's functional and reliable even when solo sailing. This is perhaps because it's designed and set up for racing, so it can be great for you especially if you're looking for a coastal cruiser that can be easily handled.

Using the sloop Marconi can be the best way to go given that this vessel has a keel-stepped mast. Its maximum beam begins at 60% aft of the stem before extending to the transom, which can result in the sled hull being driven by a mainsail-heavy rig. This can then fly the masthead asymmetrical off a short sprit.

Given that the Jeanneau Sunfast 3200 is a very modern boat that's equipped with some of the latest boating technology; it comes with a base price of about $160,000. This is a vessel that's built by one of the world's premier builders and offers an intriguing blend of technology, reliability, functionality, practicality, and performance.

Having been the European Yacht of the Year for 2008, the Sunfast 3200 may just be the godsend boat for your solo sailing dreams.

{{boat-info="/boats/hanse-371"}}

If you're looking for a slippery cruiser-racer that's always ready to sail single-handedly, you might perhaps want to take a serious look at the Hanse 371. Introduced in 2003, the Hanse 371 is a mid-sized boat that was designed in a true blend of old and new boating technology. Thanks to its furling and self- tacking jib, the Hanse 371 becomes an instant single-handed sailing vessel that takes much of the strain out of your solo sailing adventures. That's not all; this boat is more popular as a result of its autopilot system. Press a few buttons and you'll be ready to go.

Although it's a little bigger and not one of the smallest boats out there, it can be a great option if you're planning to sail solo but on a vessel that offers a tremendous amount of space. Whether you love a boat with a shallow or deep center of gravity, the Hanse 371 has a commendable large galley and a spacious cabin layout.

Everything about rigging this boat is designed to be easy. Again, the jib on a roller furler is self-tacking. In essence, everything is standard and easy to use, which makes this boat a dream when sailing single-handed.

Already a classic that's known for its stylish interior, timeless look, and ultimate performance, the Hanse 371 is a coveted vessel that may cost you around $60,000.

Hunter Channel 31

{{boat-info="/boats/hunter-channel-31"}}

Launched in 2001, the Hunter Channel 31 is structured with a hull and keel design that makes it easy to sail single-handed. This is a British-made vessel that has steadily moved from the racing scene to become a well-respected cruiser, especially among the solo sailing community. Thanks to its faultless handling and impressive turn of speed, the Hunter Channel 31 provides near uncomplicated sailing without losing its impeccable handling features.

Its well-balanced hull shape can either be structured with a low or deep center of gravity. It also has an efficient twin keel to give it more stability, which is perfect for solo sailing. This is, without a doubt, one of the main reasons why Hunter Channel 31 has proved popular among solo sailors trying to sail across narrow channels.

The Hunter Channel 31 is also designed with a great standard deck layout, as well as a non-compulsory self-tacking jib that comes with a single line mainsail reefing. That's not all; the tiller steering is also efficient if you're sailing single-handed as you can steer it with your legs while trimming sails.

It should, therefore, not come as a surprise that owners of the Hunter Channel 31 keep them for a long time, so finding them on the market will be a long shot. But if you're lucky enough to find one, you'll be getting a great vessel that will never let you down if you want to sail solo.

Like many Hunter designs, the Hunter 31 can be fractionally rigged given that it has a relatively large mainsail to give it a more sail area in light winds and a small headsail with a lower sheet load. In other words, you can efficiently and easily reef from the cockpit.

At about $35,000, the Hunter Channel 31 is quite affordable and is a great bargain in its category.

{{boat-info="/boats/j-boats-j109"}}

The J/109 is unquestionably one of the best single-handed or double-handed sailboats that money can buy. Whether you're looking for a coastal cruiser or a long-distance single-handed vessel, the J/109 will rarely disappoint. That's essentially why its single-handed offshore capabilities remain popular with sailors looking to make North Atlantic crossings.

Even though it is widely categorized as a planing sailboat, this vessel is too heavy for simple planing. Instead, this is a superb boat that offers an all-round performance. It doesn't matter whether you're solo sailing or sailing with a crew, its performance is always top-notch.

Thanks to its asymmetric spinnaker, you can easily jib it from the cockpit, especially in light wind. But when the wind is on the north of 20 knots, you can pole out the jib to give you a quick downwind speed. No matter which type of rig you choose to use, the J/109 offers a fair degree of control.

In terms of price, the J/109 is one of the relatively expensive sailboats out there, though this is compensated with the high standard equipment and outstanding quality of construction. For about $58,000, you can get a great boat that offers excellent solo sailing adventures.

West Wight Potter 19

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

Designed for safety and easy handling, the West Wight Potter 19 is a great sailboat for solo sailing. Although its name might not be one of the catchiest in the sailing scene, it's been around for over three decades and is steadily becoming a popular pocket cruiser. The original design draws inspiration from the U.K. but is currently built by the International Marine in California.

Over the years, this boat has seen several improvements even though its original look and features still attract a large and dedicated group of followers. This is not only a tough little boat but its hard-chine hull offers incredible stability. This makes it a very easy and ultimately forgiving sailboat. Whether you're looking to sail from California to Hawaii or across the Atlantic, the Potter 19 is outstanding for solo sailing.

This is a Bermuda-rigged sloop. Its sail plan is huge enough to propel the sailboat in various conditions. This makes it a perfect single-handed boat as you can easily set it up or take it down with no special equipment.

This is a remarkably affordable boat. At around $5,000 you can get a superb solo sailing sailboat. But if you want a new Potter 19 with additional features, you could pay about $25,000.

Beneteau 31

{{boat-info="/boats/beneteau-31"}}

As a small cruiser keelboat, this French-designed boat is primarily built of fiberglass and is perfect if you want a vessel that's great for solo sailing while still offering maximum space for comfort. Its galley is equipped with superb stowage and counter space and even a sit-down navigation station with a small table.

Maneuvering this boat under power is quite easy and is well worth it for any solo sailor who is in the market for a coastal cruiser.

It has a fractional sloop rig, which makes in-mast furling a great option. This makes it easy to handle but also powerful in light winds. If you're sailing the boat off the wind, bow pulpit and an optional asymmetric cruising chute can keep things lively.

The new 31 can cost around $115,000, which is quite expensive but certainly worth it if you want to cruise the world in this French masterpiece.

Catalina 315

{{boat-info="/boats/catalina-315"}}

This is a nifty pocket cruiser that raises the quality bar for solo sailors with extreme comfort and performance. With just a 9.45 meter hull, the Catalina 315 has more internal room than most classics and remains superb for solo sailing.

Although it's a much bigger boat, it has little but significant features that make all the difference. For instance, the split backstays are great for balance and functionality. This is one of the main reasons why it won the Cruising World's 2013 Boat of the Year Best Inshore Cruiser award.

With a masthead sloop, rigging the Catalina 315 is a lot easier as it is equipped with both an in-mast roller furling mainsail and a roller furling genoa.

Even though the Catalina 315 will exceed your expectations when sailing solo, it's a high-end sailboat that will cost you north of $175,000. But if that seems expensive, you can look for a used model, which will cost you slightly lower.

{{boat-info="/boats/vanguard-laser"}}

A boat that has become a staple in the Olympics Games, the Laser may be simple and small but a real-go to boat if you want a vessel that will rarely let you down for your solo sailing escapades. As one of the world's most popular single-handed sailboats, its main feature is its sheer simplicity. This might not be the best boat for you if you love those fussy, big boats. But if you're looking for an amazing boat with a two-part free-standing mast and a sleeved sail, the Laser should be on top of your list.

The fact that it has a lightweight hull and is easy to rig makes it one of the most popular racing sailboats in the world with over 200,000 boats in over 140 countries. This is undoubtedly a perfect boat that's specifically designed for solo sailing.

This boat can be rigged using various rigs, so you should go with whatever works for you. We, however, prefer cat rigging the boat since it has no headsail and only has one mainsail. This is a boat that is designed for speed, particularly in high winds. It's also easy to set up, which makes it a marvelous option for solo sailing.

For around $7,000, this is probably one of the most affordable solo sailing sailboats you could ever get your hands on. You should, however, keep in mind that its price may widely vary depending on their availability in your area.

{{boat-info="/boats/oday-rhodes-19"}}

A real classically-styled sailboat, the Rhodes 19 is an ideal family daysailer that can be perfect for you if you're a spirited solo sailor. Whether you're planning to sail in heavy weather or fast, the Rhodes 19 is designed with a forgiving hull and is an accomplished heavy-weather performer. For over 5 decades, and with more than 3,500 boats built, this sailboat has proven time and time again that it has the characters for both beginners and experienced sailors.

With a low center of gravity, this boat remains a classic beauty that's very fast, easy to trailer, and will get many compliments whenever you're solo sailing. No wonder it is still actively raced throughout the United States.

A simple sprit rig can work greatly on this boat but you can also consider Bermuda-Rigged sloop, which is efficient in propelling the boat in various wind conditions.

Its price may vary depending on your location but something around $20,000 will get you a sailboat that's still in tip-top condition.

{{boat-info="/boats/dehler-29"}}

If like most Americans, you have a soft spot for finely engineered German automobiles, the Dehler 29 can be a great option for your solo sailing escapades. Even though the Dehler 29 hasn't attracted a huge following in the American shores, it remains an excellently-structured German sailboat, especially for sailors looking for a stable, agile, adaptable, and comfortable sailboat.

Whether you enjoy a smooth and solo cruise on a breezy afternoon or is energized by speed, the Dehler 29 is one of the most adaptable sailboats. This is certainly why it has received numerous accolades in the boating scene including the 1998 Cruising World Magazine Boat of the Year, as well as Sailing World Boat of the Year award.

Given that it's a single-handed sailboat, you can tiller steer it and cat rig it with ease to give you easy maneuverability, confidence, and absolute versatility.

With powerful dynamics and maximum safety, the Dehler 29 is one of the best German-produced sailboats that will set you back around $55,000.

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Daniel Wade

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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• Dual Voyagers: Mastering the Art of 2-Man Dinghy Sailing

Sailing in a 2-man dinghy offers an unparalleled blend of camaraderie, skill, and interaction with the elements. It's an activity that not only tests your sailing prowess but also strengthens bonds between partners. This guide delves into the essentials of choosing the right dinghy, mastering sailing techniques, and making the most out of your sailing adventures.

Choosing and Mastering Your 2-Man Dinghy

The first step in embarking on a 2-man dinghy sailing journey is selecting the right boat. Factors such as design, durability, and ease of handling play critical roles in ensuring your adventures are both enjoyable and safe. Dinghies like the Laser 2 and the RS Feva are celebrated for their balance between performance and usability, making them ideal choices for both beginners and seasoned sailors. Once you've chosen your vessel, learning to sail it effectively is paramount. Sailing a 2-man dinghy requires a solid understanding of basic sailing principles, such as wind direction, sail adjustment, and maneuvering. However, the true art of dinghy sailing lies in the synergy between the sailors. Effective communication and coordination ensure not only smooth sailing but also enrich the experience, making every challenge a lesson in teamwork and every success a shared joy.

Sailing Gear, Techniques, and Destinations

Equipping yourself with the right gear is as crucial as choosing the right dinghy. Safety gear, navigational tools, and proper attire can make the difference between a good and a great sailing experience. As you become more familiar with your dinghy and the basics of sailing, you'll want to explore advanced techniques and strategies. These include mastering tacks and jibes in synchronization with your partner, understanding how to read changing weather conditions, and optimizing your route for speed and efficiency.

The world is your oyster when it comes to finding the perfect sailing spot. From the serene waters of local lakes to the challenging conditions of coastal areas, each destination offers unique experiences and lessons. Engaging with the local sailing community can open up opportunities for guided adventures, races, and social gatherings, enriching your sailing journey with new friendships and insights.

Read our top notch articles on topics such as sailing, sailing tips and destinations in our Magazine .

Check out our latest sailing content:

Maintenance, safety, and the joy of sailing.

Maintaining your dinghy is crucial for ensuring its longevity and performance. Regular checks and care, including cleaning, inspecting for damage, and proper storage, will keep your boat in prime condition for your next adventure. Safety is paramount in sailing, and being prepared with the right knowledge, equipment, and checks before and after each voyage will ensure that your sailing experiences remain joyous and free from unwanted surprises.

Sailing a 2-man dinghy is more than just a sport or a hobby; it's an adventure that offers endless possibilities for fun, learning, and bonding. Whether you're navigating through calm waters or competing in a race, the experiences shared in a dinghy are unforgettable. It's about the thrill of the chase, the peacefulness of being at one with nature, and the unique bond formed when two people set sail together. As you harness the wind and ride the waves, remember that each journey is a story waiting to be told, with the sea as your canvas and the dinghy your brush.

In conclusion, 2-man dinghy sailing embodies the essence of adventure, teamwork, and the simple joy of being on the water. Whether you are just starting out or looking to deepen your sailing skills, the journey is sure to be filled with excitement, learning, and unforgettable memories. So hoist your sails, coordinate with your partner, and set off on a sailing adventure that promises to be anything but ordinary.

So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our range of charter boats and head to some of our favourite  sailing destinations.

I am ready to help you with booking a boat for your dream vacation. Contact me.

Denisa Kliner Nguyenová

Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Best inflatable boats: 6 affordable options for getting on the water

• Drew Maglio
• March 9, 2023

The best inflatable boats encompass a wide array of vessels with varied abilities that are suited to a myriad of purposes…

As a result, it is necessary to offer the following caveat and disclaimer: the term ‘inflatable boat’ can be confusing as there are some large RIBs (Rigid-hulled Inflatable Boats) with multiple high-powered engines that are designed to perform search and rescue operations in the most demanding coastal conditions imaginable, while other inflatable boats are suitable only for playing in a swimming pool or on a calm lake or river.

This guide highlights some of the best inflatable boats for various common and specific uses. Even the best inflatable kayak will be wholly unsuited to acting as a yacht tender ( see explainer below ), while the best yacht tender will likely not make an ideal inflatable fishing platform.

With so many designs available, it’s crucial to select the right inflatable boat for the job.

At a glance:

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

6 of the best inflatable boats.

Inflatable Sport Boats Killer Whale

Best inflatable boat for use as a tender

First up on our list is arguably the best value, fully-modular PVC tender that can currently be purchased on the market. Featuring an 1,100 denier thread count and heat-welded seams backed by a 3-year warranty, this inflatable boat is sure to last a long time.

Coming in three different sizes with both modular aluminum and air floor options, there is an option to fit the requirements of most cruisers looking for a fully storable tender – a huge benefit for owners of sub-40ft boats.

While there are many options available, I would advise buyers to go with one of the 9.8’ or 10.8’ models with the solid, modular aluminum floor, as these have the best performance-to-price ratio. These models will also handle the best when blasting along in chop with up to a 15hp outboard.

While the 8.8’ model will be fine for lighter use, the 10.8’ is a lot more boat for not a lot more money or storage space onboard. However, if speed of set-up is your priority, the easiest models to set up and break down are without a doubt the air floor models.

Reasons to buy

– Heat-welded seams – 3-year warranty – Semi-rigid floor – Includes all necessary accessories like bag, pump, oars, bench, etc. – Some air floor models feature EVA faux teak decking

Reasons to avoid

– Fairly expensive for a PVC tender (close to some cheaper glued Hypalon options) – Not as rigid as a true RIB – Can only take up to a 15hp outboard – Modular aluminum floor options can be more difficult to install than air floor models – Wide, light inflatable boats without a keel such as these tend to row very poorly

Specifications 

– Size: 10.8 feet

– Weight: 80 pounds

– Material: h eat-welded re-enforced UV and puncture resistant PVC

– Capacity: 5 person

West Marine RIB 350

– Tremendous value – Quality materials – Very robust and capable

– Big and heavy – Requires serious storage/lifting capabilities – Fiberglass floor will require more maintenance and is also heavier – Still nearly $4,000

– Size:  Length: 11 feet 5 inches

– Weight: 161 pounds

– Material:  Floor:  fiberglass |  Transom construction:  fiberglass and birch marine plywood

– Capacity: 1320 pounds./4 person

Next up on our list is a premium but affordable RIB option for cruisers with either davits or a spot on the foredeck of their yacht, looking for a tender with a lot of capability.

This model features a double-floor, lift points, and an integrated anchor locker. At 161lbs and 11’6”, this model is hefty, but this sturdy construction allows the RIB to sport up to a 25hp outboard.

Coming in at under $4,000, the RIB-350 is priced well below many of the other offerings on the market, and is of sound construction and materials.

While the RIB-350 is a very good and affordable dinghy option for serious cruisers, I would like to see a double aluminum floor option in the future.

Buy it now on West Marine

Inflatable kayaks and other inflatable row boats

While the boats above are undoubtedly some of the best fully inflatable boats on the market, they are ill-suited to applications where rowing is preferred or required. For the sake of exploring rivers, streams, or even lakes by paddle, an inflatable kayak is a much better option.

Unlike their solid cousins, inflatable kayaks are surprisingly stable, while retaining many of the unique properties of a solid kayak — such as exceptional tracking through the water, good speed, inertia, etc.

Inflatable kayaks tend to accomplish these things by having a completely flat bottom, with the exception of a rigid fin that typically slides into place on a stitched track that is integral to the bottom of the kayak. From there, there are many unique and proprietary features that differentiate one inflatable kayak offering from another.

For small boats of 20-28’ without the ability to launch or store a proper tender, an inflatable kayak can often be a way to add versatility without many of the downsides that come with owning and operating what is essentially another vessel (i.e. cost, storage space and additional fuel storage).

Intex Explorer K2 Kayak

– Very directionally stable thanks to the included skeg – Lightweight and easy to carry – Fast – Comfortable to sit in

– Only comes in one color – No storage nets or bin

– Size: Display length: 58.74 centimetres

– Weight: 13.4 kilograms

– Material: vinyl

– Capacity: 350 pounds / 2 person

The Intex Explorer is the company’s no-frills, functional inflatable kayak that is designed for two people.

Although not as stiff and robust as more premium options, the Index Explorer will work wonderfully well for exploring lakes and rivers and may even be used in some very calm coastal areas.

Intex Challenger K2

Best tried and tested inflatable kayak

– Affordable – Has cargo net to hold gear – Nicer color than Explorer

– Not as rigid as the Excursion Pro – Low bow makes it susceptible to splashing

– Size:  Inflated size: 11 feet 6 inches X 2 feet 6 inches X 1 foot 3 inches

– Weight: 36.4 pounds

– Capacity: 2 person

The Intex Challenger K2 is the company’s mid-range inflatable kayak and the one that I have owned and enjoyed for years.

Like the other models, the Challenger K2 features a fully-inflatable construction, detachable skeg that slides into place, and inflatable seats that are actually very comfortable.

Despite the similar cost, the Challenger K2 has one benefit over the Explorer that is noteworthy: the cargo net is actually surprisingly useful as I always find myself stowing gear like life jackets, waterproof cameras, etc. underneath it.

Buy it now on Amazon

Buy it now on Target

Intex Excursion Pro K2

Best inflatable boat for rowing

– Higher pressure air tubes to increase rigidity – Integrated foot rests and rod holders – Comes with two different skegs for shallow and deep water

– Only comes in one colour – No dedicated storage solution for gear

– Size: Inflated size: 12 feet 7 inches x 3 feet 1 inch x 1 foot 6 inches

– Weight: 19.77 kilograms

– Material: plastic

The Excursion Pro is Intex’s premium inflatable kayak, although it is still very affordable. This model features a more rugged construction and numerous creature comforts like foot rests and integrated rod holders.

More pronounced coverings also create small storage cubbies at either end of the kayak, although it would be nice to see a dedicated storage bag on future models.

Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat

Best inflatable boat for fishing

– Rugged steel frame construction – Abrasion-resistant bottom – Elevated seat allows for better visibility and functionality – Pontoon design makes boat more stable – Lots of integrated storage

– Fairly expensive for what is essentially an inflatable fishing raft – Cannot accept an outboard motor – Steel frame could rust over time if used in salt water

– Size: Assembled size: 108 inches L x 56 inches W x 28 inches H

– Weight: 77 pounds

– Material: PVC bottom, tough nylon top, powder-coated steel tube frame, bronze oar locks, cold and heat-resistant bladders and rugged 7-foot two-piece aluminum oars

– Capacity: one person

The final inflatable boat on our list is the Colorado, offered by Classic Accessories, which has been designed primarily as an epic river fishing platform for a single user.

With an abrasion-resistant bottom, this river raft was made for navigating the craggy shallows that trout and other freshwater fish tend to inhabit.

With a rugged steel frame and a wealth of storage, including rod holders, this pontoon boat is the mountain angler’s ultimate tool. This raft can also be fitted with a trolling motor.

What makes an inflatable boat a tender?

In the context of inflatable boats, a tender is a small inflatable boat designed to be an auxiliary vessel to a larger boat or yacht. There are many types of tenders, including those with rigid bottoms as well as wholly inflatable and storable models.

Tenders may be very expensive or very cheap depending on the design. Typically, the most expensive tenders are constructed with painted aluminum bottoms and double floors, where the walking surface is covered with some type of faux teak vinyl or foam decking.

On these more expensive tenders, the tubes are typically constructed of heat-welded (rather than glued) hypalon, which is far more durable to UV than PVC.

Therefore, fully-fledged tenders are typically the preserve of wealthy liveaboard cruisers who spend most of their time in tropical regions where their tender is in use nearly all of the time and is therefore constantly exposed to UV radiation.

For casual part-time and/or temperate cruisers, more affordable but equally suitable, tender options exist. For less demanding applications where stowage ability and modularity takes precedence, fully-inflatable boats with an aluminum floor are often preferred, though a model with a rigid air floor may also be used.

In terms of rigidity while underway, expect boats with an aluminum hull and double floor to be the most rigid, while air-floor models are typically the least rigid and therefore the worst option for handling coastal chop and outboards above 10hp.

RIBs with fiberglass hulls and floors also exist, but these are typically heavier, not as rigid, and also prone to degradation from constant immersion in water (blisters) and UV radiation (chalking).

While fiberglass is a wonderful material for larger vessels, I do not recommend it for RIBs as aluminum tends to be a much more performant and long-lasting choice.

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Head to Amazon’s dedicated sailing page for more marine products.

Practical Boat Owner

• Digital edition

Best inflatable boat: 9 compact tenders put to the test

• Robert Melotti
• September 9, 2021

Rob Melotti and the PBO test team put some lightweight, portable inflatable dinghies through their paces in Lymington to find the best inflatable boat

Inflatables are everywhere: paddleboards , canoes, kayaks , tents, kites and wings – and inflatable boat technology has long been a practical option for tenders, RIBs, liferafts and lifejackets .

But what the ‘new wave’ of inflatable boats brings to the practical boating landscape is the air floor, which makes very stable, very lightweight tenders a very practical option for people with limited stowage ie owners of cruising boats under 30ft.

And the market has responded with a selection of offerings under 2.4m weighing under 20kg. So which is the best and what should you be looking for to get the most for your money?

We tested nine models sold by eight different brand names. The inflatable boats were superficially quite similar, but in the accumulation of small details it was possible to pick a few favourites.

We rowed and motored all of the inflatable boats solo, and most of them with two aboard. We weighed and measured them and found a lot to like.

What’s the best inflatable boat? 9 options tested

3D Twin V Shape 230 Air Deck Tender was a good all-round performer – and best on test

3D Twin V Shape 230 Air deck tender

French manufacturer 3D Tender was one of the earliest producers of ultralight inflatable tenders. This model sports premium touches, such as davit rings and the most high-spec pump of all the inflatable boats on test.

In terms of convenience it is a rucksack carry bag with a large front pocket for the pump and accessories. The zips will need maintenance though.

The V floor is a single chamber, keeping set-up time to a minimum and keeping the weight down. The lack of safety lines on the side makes carrying as a two-person team a little less convenient than some of the other inflatable boats, but the keel strip will help preserve this boat.

The rowlocks double as cleats and the rubbing strake will provide strength but little in the way of splashproofing for passengers.

Buy it now on oceanfirstmarine.co.uk

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Force 4 02Lite was the lightest on test

Force 4 02Lite

This model is very similar to the Seago Go Lite (also tested), including the rucksack, which was our favourite on test for carrying comfort, although you do have to beware of any loose objects inside the bag dropping out of the side enclosure flap.

The Force 4 02Lite was the lightest package overall and packed down to just 90cm long.

The oars were the smallest on test, which affected the rowing performance, but it was the only inflatable boat with open rowlocks – so you can use your own oars.

The bench is adjustable, but I wasn’t able to position it far enough aft to brace my feet against the transom under oars.

There are three D-rings for making a towing bridle on the bow but no ergonomic carry handle.

The rubbing strake is minimal with no splash guard and there are no davit lifting eyes.

Buy it now on force4.co.uk

Crewsaver Air Deck 230 is solidly built and joint cheapest, but is outclassed by 3D Tender’s lightweight V floor design

Crewsaver Air Deck 230

Best cheap inflatable boat

The pack we were sent for testing had the incorrect seat included, but we were able to substitute a seat from one of the other inflatable boats on test without difficulty.

The rucksack doesn’t have a front pocket, but there are no zips to corrode and the adjustable webbing buckles mean the top opening of the bag is quite forgiving for repacking.

The safety lines are robustly attached to the hull, which is a feature that will pay dividends long-term, but adds a bit of weight.

The rubbing strake is also weighty, but the splash guards will keep water out of the boat.

The coned aft sponson caps are hard plastic, enabling vertical storage without damage and the rowlocks double as cleats.

There are davit rings in the bow and through the thick transom board, plus the bow handle is wide for ergonomic carrying.

Buy it now on crewsaver.com

Excel Ventura SL200

From a Midlands-based company that specialises in inflatable boats, this came with a great double-action hand pump and was the only boat on test with an over-pressure valve – a useful feature for exposure to the hot sun.

The safety lines are sturdily attached and splash guards make up part of the rubbing strake protecting the sides and keeping water out of the boat.

The rowlocks double as cleats and the bow handle is wide enough for a proper grip.

Excel Ventura SL200’s double action hand pump made short work of inflation

Davit fittings are supplied and the sponsons are shaped to add waterline length and buoyancy aft. The duffel carry bag was the sturdiest on test.

This inflatable boat comes with a good long set of oars, although we had to sit side-by-side to make any progress under oars with two adults on board.

Buy it now on excel-inflatables.co.uk

Quicksilver was big – but also heavy

Quicksilver Tendy Airfloor 240

This boat has an inflatable keel as well as a removable inflatable floor. There was also a rigid slat athwartship between the floor and keel, which increases the weight overall.

This is one of the priciest and heaviest inflatable boats on the test and one of the largest in packed dimensions.

It features a fuel tank strap, a decent keel strip to prevent damage on slipways, a decent bow carry handle and rowlock cleats.

The rubbing strake is quite meaty as well without being particularly splashproof.

The carry bag is very forgiving – opening flat like a groundsheet.

There were no carry handles on the sponsons and the safety rope fixings aren’t as solid as many of the other inflatable boats on test, although there are rowlock cleats and the seat is fully adjustable.

Buy it now on eBay

Light weight makes for easy handling on land and in the water

Seago Go Lite 230

Seago is a distributor, supplying UK chandleries and there are similarities between this model and the 02Lite from Force 4.

This model is very light and compact – just 0.5kg heavier than Force 4, but packs down to the same 90cm length.

The oars are very short, but are fixed using a pin and thole system which some may prefer over the Force 4’s rowlocks.

The PVC material is described as 1100 Decitex (Force 4 is 800 Decitex) and the backpacks of the two were identical: comfortable to carry and forgiving to repack due to their large side aperture rather than a narrow top.

The rubbing strake is minimal and there is no ergonomic bow handle.

Buy it now on seagoyachting.co.uk

YAM 200T is not rated for two adults

This 2m inflatable boat has a fixed seat and was unique on the test for having wooden slats to reinforce the floor. This means less pumping up, but slightly increased weight.

Like the 3D tender there is no safety rope so carrying between two crew involves spreading your arms wide from bow handle to stern handle placed on the sponsons. It is rated for one adult and one child – the smallest by rating on the test.

There is a hefty rubbing strake with raised levels to block spray and the rowlocks double as cleats. The oars are miniature and the bow has three D-rings for rigging a towing bridle but no ergonomic handle for carrying. With two adults aboard we would have been better rowing side by side – but it was no slouch under engine.

Buy it now on bhg-marine.co.uk

The nicest boat on test to row

YAM 240 (STI) Air Floor Sport Tender

This is the most expensive model on test and features an inflatable keel as well as a floor section, plus two sponsons to inflate.

With that much to inflate a high quality pump would have been better, but there is a pressure gauge included in the package to get everything sufficiently firm.

The seat is fixed but the oars were nice and long, which made it the nicest boat to row. As with the YAM 200T there were no safety lines fitted and carry handles are spread far apart, which makes carrying more difficult.

But there is a good, ergonomic bow carry handle and the inflatable boat is rated to carry 400kg, the highest rating on test. The rowlocks double as cleats and the rounded aft end of the sponsons have protective, hard plastic caps.

Smaller diameter sponsons means more space aboard – but less freeboard

Talamex Superlight SLA230

Talamex is a Dutch brand imported by EP Barrus. This inflatable boat had the narrowest diameter sponsons on test, which creates more internal space, but less freeboard.

It’s an extremely lightweight package, with a thin transom board, but nice long oars and a good carrying handle on the bow.

The pump supplied is a single-action hand pump and the bag folds out completely flat like a groundsheet, which is very forgiving for repacking.

The bag has nice carrying handles on the narrow ends. The seat was massively adjustable and the rubbing strake is generous without offering very much splash guarding.

The safety rope attachments look a bit vulnerable and there are no other handles on the sponsons.

Launching the Seago 320

Verdict: Which was the best inflatable boat on test?

This group of inflatable boats can be subdivided in a few different ways: by length, by price and by weight (note there is also a group of rucksack boats and a trio of air-keel boats).

I think the best on test goes to the 3D Tender, which manages to keep the weight down, comes complete with a very high-spec pump, a very user-friendly rucksack bag with a big front pocket and a ‘slight V form floor’ that inflates as a single chamber.

There are no safety lines or a bow handle, so carrying the boat when inflated is less natural than some of the others and it’s the second most expensive.

The best bargain buy is probably the lightest, smallest package: Force 4, for me, is preferable to the very similar Seago model because of its ‘open’ rowlocks. But if you prefer captive oars, the Seago is slightly cheaper.

The Crewsaver is the same low price and probably more robust and seaworthy than the Force 4 or the Seago while being easier to carry when inflated than the 3D Tender. But without the V floor I think it’s a less versatile performer.

I didn’t see the benefit of the two 200cm dinghies we tested: both were noticeably small in use without being smaller to pack and stow or lighter to carry.

The 240cm V Floor models can carry bigger loads at greater speed, but if you really need that level of performance you have to accept the extra set-up time, weight and stowage.

Best inflatable boats – key facts and figures

What makes the best inflatable boat for you?

Rucksack bags were easiest to carry

The bag details matter when one of the main selling points of a product is its portability. We looked at handles, zips and overall design. Metal zips will corrode without a regular rinse in fresh water, but as long as the zipper track is plastic, then replacement zipper trucks can be fitted relatively cheaply.

Carry handles at the narrow ends are very useful and half of the inflatable boats tested can be carried as rucksacks. A few of the boats pack away in bags that deconstruct on all four sides like groundsheets, with webbing straps and adjustable buckles crossways and lengthways.

These are very forgiving and yet still pack up tightly and securely. We also looked at the quality of the bag material: is the bag likely to survive chafing, stretching, damp or UV exposure for as long as the dinghy itself?

We weighed each of the inflatable boats in their carry bags and found quite a variation in boat weights

Size, weight and price

Our facts table will quickly show you the lightest and smallest packs and there are four tenders priced under £500.

The two longest inflatable boats in the test (YAM 240 and Quicksilver 240) were in the biggest bags (110cm and 120cm respectively), and were the heaviest packs weighing over 20kg even without any accessories.

Only three of the nine tested boats weighed in at under 20kg straight out of the box. There was an 11kg difference between the lightest (Force 4 02Lite) and the heaviest (Quicksilver Tendy Airfloor 240).

The Force 4 comes in a rucksack bag that is 20cm shorter in length than the Quicksilver and over £100 cheaper.

But unless size, weight and price are your only criteria, then a simple numerical comparison could miss some important details.

Article continues below…

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Pumps and pressure

Some of the air floors are rated for 1psi; others at 11psi. Most of the sponsons were rated at 3.6psi, which shouldn’t require too much brow mopping for foot- or hand-pump operators.

Five of the inflatable boats came with foot pumps, but the double-action hand pumps with the 3D and the Quicksilver were a joy to use.

All the boats were easily carried by two when inflated

Manual handling

It’s an ironic linguistic quirk that a tender should be so regularly treated without much tenderness. Even a few hours’ use on a clean slipway incurred scuffs, dings, grubby marks and a few minor tears to the carry bags.

Grass is far kinder than concrete for inflating, but is in short supply at busy locations. We looked at keel strips, rubbing strakes, safety line attachment points, bow handles and more… including the relationship between price, weight and fit-out.

First published in the September 2021 issue of Practical Boat Owner.

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Yachts are available in a wide array of sizes and styles in gorgeous places all over the world. You and your loved one might enjoy scuba diving in the warm Caribbean Sea , the sights of the Mediterranean coastline, or the frigid tranquility of the Far North. The possibilities are as endless as the sea.

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There’s nothing we love more than playing a part in creating experiences that bring people together. Chartered yachts offer an intimate setting that encourages closeness. Available activities are practically limitless as different parts of the world will change the focus of your charter. If you want to travel the length of France’s coast, we can make it happen. If you want to experience the culture of isolated South American tribes, you can. If you just want to relax while safely anchored behind miles of reef with no land in sight, Regency can help you make it happen. We want to make sure that your shared experience is unique and special for you, so we make sure to have a full understanding of your desires before we start to plan anything.

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You and your partner have a unique relationship and likely are looking for a trip that will reflect your unique preferences. We specialize in using the information you give us on your needs and preferences to find a vessel that perfectly meets all of your requirements. Some of you may be looking for a couple’s adventure, others may be looking for relaxing second honeymoon, but we believe that each and every one of our clients deserves nothing less than the best personal care when it comes to planning their getaway.

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serecovery New Member

I've been very interested in the purchase of a larger boat, anywhere from 68ft to maybe even 86ft, but I love boating I just don't want to have a captain for my boat. What would be the largest boat anyone would reccomend that 2 people could take out on extended cruising. I live in North Miami and have always had the idea of crusing the Caribbean going island hopping, but have no desire to do so on with a captained boat. I've been reasearching the Marquis 65 and the Azimut 68s Open with a possible dream of perhaps an Azimut 86s, but feel that may be too big for 2 people to use with no captain. David

lucid484 New Member

my grandfather and his buddy never had a problem with his 60 footer...You can prolly handle an 80' with 2 people just a person to drive the boat and a person on the sides to throw lines to people at the dock.....do you really need more people than that?

AMG YF Moderator

I have handled an 85´yacht with just one deckhand. However this is the easy part. To maintain and keep a boat of this size is a halftime job or more, so the time to enjoy the yachting becomes limited if you are on your own. I shouldn´t recommend bigger than 50-60´ if you are not happy to spend half the day washing down, repairing and maintaining all the stuff that comes with a larger yacht...

Ken Bracewell Senior Member

I agree with Lars. My wife and I can easily handle a 100' but we are professional crew whose job it is to maintain the boat. I wouldn't dream of having anything larger than 60' for personal use because of the workload it would demand in order to keep it well.

Castlerock Senior Member

I agree with Lars and Ken, we had a 54 foot trawler and before that we had a C&C 40. The difference in work load for the extra 14 feet is more than double. We had 2 of everything to fix and clean not to mention all of the plumbing, electric, washer and dryer, disposal, dishwasher etc... And when your done working on those things it takes the better part of a day to just clean the boat. I hired a local kid to work on the boat to help clean and give me a hand with things.

yachtbrokerguy Guest

When you travel in the Bahamas and the Carribean, often a local guy will come down to the dock and ask if you want your boat washed. Usually they know what to do, and if they are good you can have them do maintenance jobs. That takes some of the pressure off, as the boat handling for two people is easy, but the care of it is not. Those boats you mention in the 65' - 68' range will be big enough to spend extended time on board, carry enough fuel for longer distances, be comfortable in 2-4' sea conditions and will not need crew. Your insurance company might not like the no crew part if you have not had much experience. Then you might have to have some crew on board for awhile. Tucker Fallon

CaptTom Senior Member

Serecovery, If yuou plan to run a large yacht with just two crew (with you at the wheel and the other setting lines and fenders and the such) then equip the vessel with a bow and stern thruster. This way you can control the positioning of the bot while the crew does their work properly. I had both on a 61 footer and they were a real treat to use and keep the boat in place. 68-70 feet may be okay, 86 may be pushing it. Good luck. Capt Tom PS Some of us captains are fun to travel with. LoL

Heather_Rae New Member

My husband and I have a 45 foot yacht, and think that is the perfect size for two people to handle. I suppose we could go up to 60 feet, but we really wouldn't want to go much bigger than that because we don't want to have a crew. A 45 footer, even, is lots of maintenance for two people when my husband works long hours.

crossingoceans New Member

Depending on the type of yacht and the equipment on board it is possible to go up to 70 feet comfortably. Most livaboard ocean crossing vessels are comfortable for a couple to handle as they come with all the appropriate items and design characteristics needed

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BLUE II Motor yacht for charter

• Length: 55.9m (183.4ft)
• 12 guests in 6 cabins
• Built: 2020, Turquoise Yachts, Turkey

Designed to evoke the carefree heyday of gentlemen's yachting, this modern classic will turn heads and win hearts in any anchorage. However, her retro chic disguises a yacht at the cutting edge of comfort and technology, with hybrid propulsion for lower emissions, vibration and fuel costs. She is an exquisite blend of yachting's spirit of freedom and state of the art features.

• 2021 World Superyacht Awards winner of best displacement yacht between 500 and 999 GT
• Winner of 2021 BOAT Design & Innovation Awards for outstanding exterior design
• Two beautifully appointed master cabins
• Spa area with a sauna, steam room and exercise equipment
• Timeless interior styling by Vickers Studio and Hoek Design
• Hydraulic swim platform for ease of accessing the water
• Two large tenders and wide array of watersports
• Hybrid propulsion ensuring reduced emissions

About BLUE II

Designed to evoke the carefree heyday of gentlemen's yachting, this modern classic will turn heads and win hearts in any anchorage. However, her retro chic disguises a yacht at the cutting edge of comfort and technology, with hybrid propulsion for lower emissions, vibration and fuel costs. She is an exquisite blend of yachting's spirit of freedom and state of the art features.

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You awake in one of two master suites, one on the upper deck with 180 degree views forward and the other on the main deck. Head for the upper deck aft for a delicious breakfast before settling in the sun lounge aft to discuss the day's plans with the captain. If the morning heat is too intense, start the day in the air conditioned main saloon at the formal dining table and make plans in the lounge opposite.

After breakfast, the children race eagerly down to the portside swim platform where the deck crew has prepared all the watertoys for a morning adrenaline rush. Other guests may choose to work out in the gym, or for an easier start to the day, head for the sauna and hammam where there is a massage table too.

In the afternoon, while the captain sails you to the next amazing destination, enjoy a movie in the main deck cinema lounge or catch up on some emails in the private owner's office on the bridge deck.

As dusk falls in your new anchorage, take in the spectacular sunset with a sundowner in the foredeck lounge and toast another amazing day before sampling the chef's gastronomic extravaganza on the upper deck aft.

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Rate from EUR 350,000 per week

• Length: 60m (196.9ft)
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On Some Boats for the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, Three’s a Crowd

Smaller vessels with two-man crews are competing for the first time. But, thanks to their use of autopilots, they can’t win the top trophy.

By David Schmidt

There’s a beautiful simplicity to two-handed offshore sailboat racing: two sailors, one boat and a lot of blue.

For many offshore sailors, participating in the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race aboard a fully crewed boat is a serious undertaking. But the 18 two-handed teams competing in this year’s edition of this 628-nautical-mile race are sharing an entire team’s worth of adventure — and responsibility — with just one other person.

In 2019, the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, which organizes the race, announced a new two-handed division for the 2020 race. The decision was driven by a global surge in the popularity of short-handed sailing and the prospect of a mixed two-person keelboat offshore event at the Paris 2024 Olympics in Paris.

But the 2020 Sydney Hobart race was canceled because of the pandemic, and then the International Olympic Committee did not add the keelboat event to the Paris Games.

Still, the Sydney Hobart’s newest class has become popular and accounts for 19 percent of the 94-boat fleet at the starting line on Sunday.

“I am a big fan of the double-handed sailing concept, and it is great to see the Rolex Sydney to Hobart organizers embracing this side of the sport,” said Stu Bannatyne of New Zealand, an experienced offshore sailor who has won the Volvo Ocean Race four times. “The race for sure has inherent risks as we all well know, and double-handing it just means the crew needs to be very aware of the limitations of themselves and the boat.”

Wendy Tuck, a veteran of 13 Sydney Hobart races, is on a two-handed boat this year.

“I wanted a new adventure,” said Tuck, the only female sailor to have won an around-the-world race as skipper. Tuck is sailing with her co-skipper Campbell Geeves aboard Speedwell , a Beneteau 34.7. “It’s the smallest boat that I’ve gone south on,” she said, referring to Hobart. She added that while she has done a lot of short-handed sailing, she is still new to two-handed racing.

Rob Gough, a veteran of the 2019 race and an accomplished dinghy sailor, said it was the challenge that attracted him to two-handed racing. He and John Saul, a veteran of the 1998 race that killed six sailors and sank five boats, are sailing their Akilaria Class 40, Sidewinder.

“We both like being really involved,” Gough said, adding that with two-handed racing both sailors get to be “skipper, cook, trimmer, tactician, radio operator and navigator.”

Serious offshore sailors often say that races are really won during the boat preparation before the race. Two-handed sailing is no different, except that there are fewer crew members to tackle the details.

Given the race’s tough reputation, organizers require teams to complete qualifications, including first-aid certification, radio-operator training and survival-at-sea instruction. Aboard fully crewed boats, only some of the sailors need to complete this training. In the two-handed division, both skippers must fulfill these requirements, in addition to completing previous (and specific) offshore races and a 24-hour passage together on their boats.

Then there is the task of outfitting a boat to potentially withstand more than 50-knot winds and massive seas.

“The boat has done 30,000-odd miles of two-handed sailing, so it’s all set up,” said Rod Smallman, who is racing aboard Maverick, a Jeanneau Sun Fast 3600, with his co-skipper Leeton Hulley. This is Smallman’s second Sydney Hobart race and Hulley’s seventh. “Once it’s set up, it’s all tinkering and maintenance.”

One decision about two-handed racing equipment has been controversial.

Autopilot systems, which steer a boat to a specified compass course or wind angle, free the crew to trim sails, perform other duties or rest. Unlike fully crewed boats, two-handed teams can use autopilots in this year’s race.

However, the yacht club announced last year that two-handed teams would not qualify for the Tattersall Cup, which is awarded to the race’s overall corrected-time (handicap) winner. The two-handed division is competing for its own trophy.

“We need to better understand the level of advantage that autopilots might provide to yachts of differing types,” Noel Cornish, the club’s commodore, who officiates for the club, said last year. “The status and prestige of the Tattersall Cup in world sailing requires a thorough understanding of all the issues before any new division is granted eligibility.”

Not surprisingly, some two-handed teams were not pleased.

“I’d be lying if I didn’t say that I was really disappointed that we’re not racing for the Tattersall,” Tuck said, noting that some crewed boats use powered winches to trim their sails and hydraulic systems to swing their canting keels. “But at the end of the day, I’m really happy we can enter as a two-handed boat.”

Smallman was also disappointed and noted that other international races allowed these teams to compete for the same top-shelf trophy as fully crewed boats.

Unlike human drivers, whose ability to steer a precise course typically wanes after 20 or 30 minutes, autopilots never tire. But Matt Eeles, product director for the autopilot manufacturer B&G, said that when sailing in big waves, autopilots were purely reactionary, not predictive, as they cannot see ahead or behind the yacht. “I think a human would outperform an autopilot in these conditions,” he said.

Some high-budget round-the-world sailing teams have recently developed autopilots that incorporate sophisticated gyro-stabilized compasses, secondary processing computers, custom software and sensor networks, but this is not the technology that Gough, Smallman and Tuck are using.

“It’s a bit rich to suggest that autopilots will give us an advantage to fully crewed boats,” Gough said, explaining that Sidewinder has a B&G autopilot.

Critically, the race crosses Bass Strait , a section of about 160 nautical miles that separates southern Australia and Tasmania. Average water depth is roughly 200 feet. Couple these shallow waters with the generally south-flowing East Australia Current and the strong southerly weather fronts — “busters” in race parlance — that oppose the current, and the seas can, and regularly do, become ferocious.

“If you’ve got the skills to put your boat where the wind is, it’s going to beat having a better autopilot every single day of the week,” Smallman said, adding that he still planned to let the autopilot drive whenever possible. “Boat handling. Seamanship. There’s just a list as long as your arm that’s going to outperform the importance of a pilot.”

Other two-handed skippers, including Tuck and Geeves, also plan to predominantly use their autopilot and focus on sail trim and tactics.

Regardless, sleep deprivation is a concern for two-handed teams in the multiday race.

“We’ll get into our rest cycle two or three hours after the start,” said Gough, explaining that he and Saul would alternate between sailing and resting every two hours.

Smallman and Hulley plan to run a similar schedule, weather depending, with roughly 15-minute crossovers at the below-decks navigation table, looking at their charts, weather forecasts and their tactical racing software. “We sort of tend to play little games,” Smallman said. “We might try to make a mile on the boat in front of us within our shifts.”

Then there is changing sails or reducing the amount of sail area alone or with the other sailor. “Getting the spinnaker down is the toughest part,” Tuck said. While more modern boats have spinnakers that can be furled into snakelike rolls using winches and then lowered in a controlled manner, Speedwell is old-school.

“We have to get the spinnaker down while it’s still set,” she said, describing wrestling with the huge, still-inflated sail. “It’s a big challenge.”

This challenge will be greatly magnified if the weather turns serious.

While the bigger, faster boats can sometimes out sail the worst storms, Tuck expects to see at least two busters en route to Hobart. “Hopefully no more,” she said. “The Hobart can be so rough, and we’re in a tiny little boat.”

Others note that, while the changing climate has recently delivered relatively mild Sydney Hobart races, all bull markets end. “There hasn’t been a rough race for a few years,” Gough said. “We’re well and truly due in for one.”

Should that happen, it will be seamanship, experience and preparation, not autopilots, that will dictate the results. “It’s all in the wind gods and each team’s decisions,” Tuck said. “And that word, luck.”

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Man of Steel

• Amenities & Toys
• Rates & Regions
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MAN OF STEEL YACHT CHARTER

86m  /  282'2   oceanco   2010 / 2023.

• Previous Yacht

Cabin Configuration

Special Features:

• Elevator for easy access between floors
• Master cabin with dressing room and study
• Impressive 5,200nm range
• Premium beauty and wellness amenities, including spa and beach club
• Recent refit in 2023

Man of Steel is spacious and packed with things to do making her fully primed for guests seeking a luxury charter at sea.

The 86.01m/282'2" 'Man of Steel' motor yacht built by the Dutch shipyard Oceanco is available for charter for up to 12 guests in 7 cabins. This yacht features interior styling by Italian designer Nuvolari Lenard.

Built in 2010, Man of Steel is designed for exquisite indoor/outdoor living and boasts voluminous interior and exterior spaces across several decks: ideal for bronzing, lounging or entertaining. Her features include a dancefloor, spa, elevator, underwater lights, beach club and gym.

Exterior Design

Seven Seas features a trademark Oceanco design concept – an infinity pool on the aft deck that can be conveniently transformed into a helipad or entertaining area, fist seen on the multi-award winning superyacht Alfa Nero.

Interior Design

Seven Seas has a contemporary interior blending walnut, teak and rosewood interspersed with natural materials, fabrics and colours. The upper deck forward of the atrium, exclusively for the owner’s use, extends outside past a plunge pool to a foredeck which, thanks to a mooring deck below, is free of any equipment. This area is totally private with access only from the owner’s suite. The main salon is fully equipped with a professional projection system and a 5 x 2m screen which, coupled with two rows of raked seating, will transform into a screening theatre. Adjacent to the main salon is an imposing 250m² area which can host everything from casual al fresco dining to a black-tie gala. Whilst using this dining area, guests enjoy a skylight which may be dimmed by LCD. On the main deck there are four large guest suites and a full width VIP stateroom; separate on the terrace deck is a secluded VIP stateroom. Formal circular dining seats 14 located on aft upper deck. She also has a fully equipped gym/spa.

Guest Accommodation

Man of Steel offers guest accommodation for up to 12 guests in 7 suites comprising a master suite, two VIP cabins, three double cabins and one twin cabin. The master suite incorporates its own study and dressing room. A crew of twenty-eight, who specialize in creating exceptional charters, are on hand to provide guests with a yacht charter vacation to remember.

Onboard Comfort & Entertainment

You and your guests can enjoy a variety of experiences on Man of Steel such as a dancefloor where you and your guests can celebrate in style. Elsewhere Man of Steel boasts a movie theatre, perfect to relax after a long day on the water. For the ultimate relaxation experience, she plays host to a luxury spa or the swimming pool is perfect for exercising or admiring a romantic sunrise. Head to the beach club and take advantage of indoor-outdoor living and entertaining and a gym with all the latest equipment is available for a good work out. Sit back with a glass of champagne in the deck jacuzzi.

Whatever your activities on your charter, you'll find some impressive features are seamlessly integrated to help you such as an elevator, making any part of the yacht quickly and easily accessible. Soak up the atmosphere after dark with dramatic underwater lights or with Wi-Fi connectivity you don't have to lose contact with the outside world, unless you want to. Guests will experience complete comfort while chartering thanks to air conditioning.

Performance & Range

Built with a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, she offers greater on-board space and is more stable when at anchor thanks to her full-displacement hull. Powered by twin MTU engines, she comfortably cruises at 15 knots, reaches a maximum speed of 19 knots with a range of up to 5,200 nautical miles from her 292,000 litre fuel tanks at cruising speed. Man of Steel features at-anchor stabilizers providing exceptional comfort levels.

Man of Steel knows a thing or two about fun on the water, with a selection of water toys and accessories for you and your guests to enjoy whilst on charter. You'll be loving the huge adrenaline rush as you zip over the water on one of the four SeaDoo GTX 300 WaveRunners. Discover the world beneath the surface of the ocean with the dive gear and compressor. In addition there are four F5 SEABOBs providing agile cruising and diving. When it comes to Tenders, Man of Steel has you covered - with four tenders, including a 10.5m/34'5" Hodgdon Limo Tender.

Special Features

A tempting feature is a projector which will throw an image onto the glass wall of the aft infinity pool allowing one to take in the latest movie.

Book your next the Mediterranean luxury yacht charter aboard Man of Steel this summer. She is already accepting bookings this winter for cruising in Bermuda and the Caribbean.

Luxury motor yacht Man of Steel is one of a kind, offering world-class onboard amenities coupled with an overflowing toy box full of the latest water sports gear for unforgettable yacht charters wherever you are.

TESTIMONIALS

There are currently no testimonials for Man of Steel, please provide .

Man of Steel Photos

Amenities & Entertainment

For your relaxation and entertainment Man of Steel has the following facilities, for more details please speak to your yacht charter broker.

Man of Steel is reported to be available to Charter with the following recreation facilities:

• 1 x 10.5m  /  34'5 Hodgdon Custom Limo Tender
• 1 x 9.5m  /  31'2 Hodgdon Custom Sports Tender open sport boat
• 1 x 10.5m  /  34'5 Euro Offshore Tender
• 1 x Zodiac Rib 420 Rescue Boat

For a full list of all available amenities & entertainment facilities, or price to hire additional equipment please contact your broker.

• + shortlist

For a full list of all available amenities & entertainment facilities, or price to hire additional equipment please contact your broker.

'Man of Steel' Charter Rates & Destinations

Summer Season

May - September

€1,200,000 p/week + expenses Approx $1,334,000

High Season

Cruising Regions

Mediterranean France, Italy, Monaco

HOT SPOTS:   Amalfi Coast, Corsica, French Riviera, Sardinia

Winter Season

October - April

$1,000,000 p/week + expenses

Bermuda Caribbean Antigua, Bahamas, Saint Martin, St Barts

Charter Man of Steel

To charter this luxury yacht contact your charter broker , or we can help you.

To charter this luxury yacht contact your charter broker or

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Yacht Owner, Captain or Central Agents - Send us latest Photos, Charter Rates or Corrections Send Updates

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Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Man overboard: tactics that really work for couples

• Toby Heppell
• June 12, 2020

The YM team get wet to see how well the MOB process works for shorthanded sailing. Here are our findings...

A man overboard is one of the biggest fears for most sailors. Are you prepared for a shorthanded retrieval? Credit: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Even close to shore this can be a potentially fatal situation, which is why MOB manoeuvres are included in many training courses and exam situations.

Though many examiners for Yachtmaster have their own areas they like to focus on in an exam – the syllabus being too wide-ranging to cover everything in a single exam setting – MOB always features.

It’s also a good demonstration of boat-handling ability as well as a key safety manoeuvre.

Many of the suggested steps to get back to an MOB, however, assume more than one crew left aboard, which is of little use to the vast majority of us who spend our time sailing two-up.

We decided to test the MOB process on a relatively calm day in the Solent. Credit: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

The question is, what happens when there is just one person left on board?

Is it possible to carry out the whole procedure to the letter, or are there non-essential or even dangerously distracting elements that should be omitted from your man overboard procedure if it’s just you on the boat?

We decided to spend a day on the water interrogating the MOB process from incident to having the casualty safely alongside.

Of course once an MOB is alongside there is still work to be done to recover them fully back onboard, which we will address in another article, but for the purposes of this article we are going to examine the boathandling procedure and techniques that are often overlooked by shorthanded crews.

AIS/MOB options: It is worth considering an AIS MOB beacon on your lifejacket if you are sailing shorthanded. Credit: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Ahead of the day, the key areas we were interested in were: the speed in which we were able to return to the casualty; distance between the casualty and the boat at any given time; and suggested actions that might hinder returning to the casualty if needing to return to them singlehanded.

Most of us will be familiar with the basic steps suggested to get back to a MOB, to sail away on a beam reach and return to the casualty on a close reach, controlling the sails and raising the alarm at the same time.

However, as each step of the process is laid out in so much detail, we wondered if this level of detail is in itself a hindrance, being overcomplicated for a situation that is, by its nature, fluid and stressful for a single sailor left on board.

When in the midst of a manuoeuvre to return to a casualty, there is a lot of information that needs to be remembered in a time of high stress.

We wondered if there were any steps that could be dropped or simplified to make things more intuitive for a lone crew member.

Starting point

To ensure we were using a robust man overboard procedure that most sailors will find familiar, we turned to the RYA recommended method for Yachtmaster candidates.

Pointing at the MOB is one of the key processes of MOB recovery. Credit: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

This broadly breaks down into two sets of instructions; one for the skipper of the yacht and one for the remaining crew, as follows:

MOB process – Skipper

• Sheet in the mainsail and heave-to in order to take the way off your boat.
• Pass buoyancy to the casualty and mark with a dan buoy.
• Instruct a crewmember to point at MOB.
• Retrieve any warps from the water and start the engine.
• Furl or drop the headsail.
• Make ready the throwing line.
• Manoeuvre the boat downwind of the MOB, keeping the MOB in sight.
• Approach the MOB into the wind, so that the mainsail is de-powered.
• Pick up the MOB on the leeward side, aft of the mast.

MOB process – Crew

• Shout ‘man overboard’ to alert crew.
• Press the MOB button on the GPS.
• Throw a life buoy and dan buoy to the MOB. Mark the MOB with a buoyant smoke flare.
• Allocate a crewmember to point at the MOB in the water.
• Send a DSC distress alert and a Mayday.
• Keep pointing; don’t lose sight of the MOB.
• If the motor has been started,
• Prepare a throwing line.
• The skipper will bring the boat alongside the MOB, with the boat pointing into the wind and the propeller stopped.
• Get a line around the MOB and get them aboard.

Even a cursory glance at this list of processes reveals it would be nigh-on impossible for a single person to perform them all.

• 1. Starting point
• 2. Finding a process that works

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Watch: 2 men escape after car crashes into yacht, plunges into Al Jaddaf water canal in Dubai

In the video, a recovery crane can be seen retrieving the heavily tinted white sedan.

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Published: Mon 16 Sep 2024, 3:17 PM

Last updated: Mon 16 Sep 2024, 10:46 PM

Divers from the Marine Rescue Division at Dubai Ports Police have recovered a sedan that plunged off the dockside in the Al Jaddaf area at Bur Dubai. In a video released on Monday, September 16, several officers and marine rescue divers can be seen salvaging the vehicle at the accident site.

The car skidded off the pier in the Al Jaddaf area and plunged into the water, crashing into a parked yacht. The impact caused the vehicle to overturn and sink to the bottom of the sea.

The two young men, the driver and passenger, reportedly survived the incident. They managed to escape the submerged car through its shattered windshield, which broke after collision with the yacht.

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Col Ali Abdullah Al Naqbi, Deputy Director of the Ports Police Station, said that the Command and Control Centre in the General Department of Operations received a report at 2.20pm about a car that had collided with a yacht and fallen into the water, with two people inside.

Col Ali said, "Marine rescue patrols, maritime security units, and a local area patrol quickly rushed to the scene. Fortunately, the two young men had escaped from the car, and their safety was ensured, with no one else found inside."

The divers went to the seabed, assessed the car's position, and secured it with ropes. Marine rescue divers then deployed a recovery crane, ensuring all safety protocols were followed, to retrieve the heavily tinted white sedan from the water and onto the dockside.

Captain Abdul Rahman Bourguiba, Head of the Marine Rescue Division, reiterated the importance of vehicle maintenance, urging motorists to regularly check the condition of their vehicles and conduct routine inspections. He stressed the responsibility of being cautious while driving, following all safety measures, and strictly adhering to traffic laws and regulations, including adhering to speed limits.

He also encouraged the public to contact the Command and Control Centre in the General Department of Operations at 999 for emergencies and at 901 for non-emergency situations. Additionally, he advised marine users to take advantage of the 'Sail Safely' service that reports marine incidents and shares locations promptly.

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Man, au pair charged in double murder of wife, man months apart

The family au pair, who he was having an affair with, was previously charged.

A grand jury has indicted 39-year-old Brendan Banfield in the stabbing death of his wife and murder of another man in the couple's bedroom 19 months after the killing, according to Virginia's Fairfax County Commonwealth's Attorney Office.

Banfield is accused of fatally stabbing 37-year-old Christine Banfield and shooting Joseph Ryan, 38, in February 2023.

Banfield's charging in the case comes months after the family's 24-year-old live-in au pair was charged in the case.

"We know Brendan Banfield and Juliana Magalhaes, the family au pair, were involved in a romantic relationship at the time of the murders," Fairfax Police Chief Kevin Davis said at a press conference Monday.

Banfield was indicted on four charges of aggravated murder and one charge for the use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. He is accused of the premeditated murder of the two.

MORE: Customer fatally shoots 18-year-old Waffle House employee, suspect at large: Police

If convicted, he could face a life sentence without the possibility of parole. For the firearm charge, he could face a mandatory minimum of three years. He is being held without bail, the Associated Press reported.

"The great investigative work of the Fairfax County Police Department led us to new information which was instrumental in securing today's indictment," Fairfax County Commonwealth's Attorney Steve Descano said during the press conference.

Investigators would not reveal what new information led to Monday's arrest.

ABC News has reached out to an attorney for Brendan Banfield for comment.

MORE: Teen screamed he was 'going to die' after being shot in face while looking for place to take homecoming pictures

The Banfield couple were married and living in their family home with their then-4-year-old daughter at the time of the murders.

Police responded to a 911 call from the home on Feb. 24, 2023, and found Ryan dead in an upstairs bedroom as a result of gunshot wounds. Christine Banfield was stabbed.

She was taken to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead, according to police.

Police said they recovered two firearms and a knife from the home at the time of the murder.

MORE: Who is 'Asian Doe'? New Gilgo Beach victim sketches released

Police also carried out another search warrant at Banfield's house on Monday.

Magalhaes has been in custody since her arrest, according to police. Her trial is scheduled to begin in November.

The two are being held in the same adult detention center, according to Descano.

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Bodycam footage key in trial of man accused of shooting two Baltimore County officers

by REBECCA PRYOR | FOX45 News

Baltimore County, MD — John Linthicum was silent and sick to his stomach as he exited the Baltimore County Courthouse on the first day of his son’s attempted murder trial.

When taking the stand, a court clerk brought him a trash can as he struggled to emotionally and physically relive the day 25-year-old David Linthicum allegedly opened fire on four Baltimore County police officers, striking two of them.

During opening arguments, the father’s 911 call that started it all played in the courtroom.

“I have a son who is being suicidal, and he has a gun,” he told dispatch.

Police body camera footage played next, showing three responding officers following John Linthicum to the basement, where David Linthicum was sitting with a gun.

“You’re going to shoot me?” the father asked. Almost immediately after, back-to-back gunshots rang out along with screams for his son to stop. Police say one of the officers was hit with shrapnel on both of his hips. No one else appeared to be injured in the house.

Prosecutors say Linthicum fled with his AR-15 rifle, then shot a second officer nearby. Body camera footage from Detective Jonathan Chih shows him alone in his truck pulling over to confront Linthicum on the side of the road. Within seconds, more than a dozen rounds fire off, and Chih can be heard crying out in agonizing pain.

“I’m shot, I’m shot,” he screamed, “In my leg, in my arm.”

According to the state, a bullet also, “struck his face, traveled through him, and out his back.”

The officer survived after 10 days in shock trauma and Linthicum was captured in Fallston after a two-day manhunt.

“Our community is safer this morning with this individual in custody where he belongs,” said Sheriff Jeffery Gahler after the arrest last February.

But while the prosecution calls Linthicum dangerous, the defense calls law enforcement reckless.

“Sometimes they don’t make the appropriate call to the mobile crisis unit,” said Former FBI agent, Tyrone Powers.

Powers plans to testify as an expert witness for the defense, barring him from speaking with FOX45 on Tuesday. However, he previously raised concerns surrounding how police responded to the standoff situation, questioning why armed officers arrived instead of mental health experts.

“The emphasis is to call mobile crisis, especially in these situations so you don’t escalate, so officers don’t get hurt, other individuals don’t get hurt, and even the individual you’re calling for who’s going through the mental health crisis don’t get hurt.”

“David is a sad person who was having a crisis,” said the defense. “Police made mistakes that day. Everyone should be accountable for what happened.”

Who was in the wrong will be debated in court over the coming days, and ultimately, up for a jury to decide.

Linthicum is facing life behind bars for more than two dozen criminal counts. Testimony in the case will continue tomorrow.

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Bodycam video of deadly crash in lancaster county shown during truck driver's trial.

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Testimony continued Tuesday in the trial of a Florida man charged in connection with the deaths of two Lancaster County siblings in a 2021 crash.

It was an emotional day for the family members of the victims. They cried as police bodycam video of the fiery crash was shown in the courtroom.

Brandie Kasper, 21, and Lenny Kasper, 18, were driving home the night of May 22, 2021, when their pickup truck collided with a tractor-trailer at Route 72 and Graystone Road in East Petersburg.

Investigators said the driver, 40-year-old Cesar Torres, was taking a car carrier filled with vehicles from the Manheim Auto Auction to Florida.

Torres sat quietly in the courtroom and showed little emotion as four Northern Lancaster County Regional police officers took the stand and testified about what they call a horrific accident.

Those officers said Torres told them that night that the light was green when he entered the intersection.

Also on the stand was a crash reconstruction expert from the Lancaster County District Attorney's Office. Det. Gregory Wahl said, "The investigation determined the tractor-trailer failed to stop for a red light and his speed was higher than the posted limit."

Torres' attorney maintains this is a tragic accident, but Torres is not responsible.

The trial will continue Wednesday at 9 a.m.