Sailboat Reviews

Decked Out

One can learn a lot about yacht design and construction by just walking the docks. Here are some features we admire, and a few others we don't.

Hunter 410

The 410 is billed as an offshore cruiser, something of a departure for a company that has otherwise concentrated on comparatively inexpensive coastal cruisers.

C&C 27

This fast and handsome racer/cruiser from the 1970s is an excellent example of what made C&C Yachts such a successful company.

CS 36

From the recently resurrected Canadian Sailcraft company, this early 80's racer/cruiser is well built, with a fair turn of speed. Its few shortcomings include a shallow bilge, difficult engine access and marginal stowage.

Wauquiez Pretorien 35

This well-made French cruiser has a fairly contemporary underbody and is strong enough to venture offshore. Finding one is the problem.

Hunter 320

A good looking mid-size cruiser that beginners will find comfortable and forgiving.

Hunter 310

This innovative family boat typifies Hunter’s design philosophy with its B&R rig, radar arch, circular cockpit and good value, but owners cite numerous niggling problems.

Bavaria 38 Ocean

This German-built production cruiser has first-class construction and is favorably priced. For serious cruising, however, she does have a few drawbacks such as a small galley and marginal sea berths.

Ericson 380

The Pacific Seacraft Ericson 380 began life in 1980 during one of the iterations of the Ericson Yacht Company. A proven West Coast performer...

Herreshoff Cat Ketch 31

The short-lived Cat Ketch Corporation built some unique cruising auxiliaries. They were all called Herreshoffs after their designer, Halsey Herreshoff. Built between about 1982...

Morgan 382 – The $30K Boat Nobody Talks About

The Morgan 382 might be one of the most overlooked cruising sailboats ever built. Designed by legendary naval architect Ted Brewer and produced between...

Latest Sailboat Review

Jeanneau 55 Boat Review

This recent sailboat from Jeanneau may as well be a spaceship. They’ve taken all the time-honored designs of a monohull aft cockpit and turned...