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.
Morgan 46
Lots of room at relatively low cost makes this aging center-cockpit cruiser a prime candidate for upgrading.
Pearson Renegade
This late 70’s racer/cruiser, designed by Bill Shaw, was Pearson’s first boat with a split underbody. Though a bit small for family cruising, she sails smartly.
J/32
Alan Johnstone’s first design for J Boats is a roomy performance cruiser that suffers only from a lack of organized stowage.
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Latest Sailboat Review
Island Packet Estero Used Boat Review
Florida-based Island Packet targets a relatively narrow niche, so the toughest competitors to its new boats are often older Island Packets. Introduced in 2010, the 36-foot, shoal-draft Estero is the company’s latest attempt to introduce a distinctive model that doesn’t stray too far from the company’s proven formula for success: moderate displacement, full-keel cruisers designed to be lived on, sailed far and in comfort, and endure the bumps, scrapes, and storms that cruising boats inevitably encounter. After sailing the Estero on Florida’s Sarasota Bay and inspecting its interior, construction, and systems, Practical Sailor testers noted that the shoal-water cruiser will appeal strongest to Island Packet fans who’ve been waiting for a shoal-draft, easy-to-sail boat that compares to the IP37 in terms of interior space. These strengths will be most apparent on intracoastal or riverine adventures like the Great Loop.