best motor yacht for beginners

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Best boats for beginners: 4 affordable options for your first boat

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Our resident used boat expert Nick Burnham picks out four of the best boats for beginners from the likes of Fletcher, Regal, Axopar and Marex…

This morning was spent watching an old video of Smuggler’s Blues 2 (my boat) while finding reasons not to get on with my proper work. I’d filmed it over a weekend aboard with my partner Marianne after an exceptionally busy couple of weeks.

It was a Sunday morning, we’d only just got up, and over breakfast I was opining that boating can be whatever you want it to be: thrilling, adventurous, exciting, sociable, fun, restorative – you choose.

However, you do actually need to buy yourself a boat first. So for those still considering a first step afloat, here are four great examples, from an affordable 22ft cuddy to a fast 37ft weekender with a 31ft Scandi cruiser in between.

The one thing they all have in common is that they are simple, user-friendly beginners boats for first-time buyers to own, drive and maintain.

4 of the best boats for beginners

Fletcher 22 GTS

Built: 2002 Price: £19,950

There’s a lot to be said for starting small and working your way up. Not only does it keep the budget manageable, it keeps the boat manageable too.

At just 22ft, even a novice could soon be managing this little craft single-handed with a modicum of training – helpful if guests (or spouses) are not so enthusiastic about getting hands on.

However, it’s also big enough to extend the horizons beyond merely day boating , and the diesel engine keeps the running costs under control too.

Of course smaller boats come with smaller, well, everything – and it’s in the cabin that you feel the pinch most keenly on the Fletcher 22 GTS. It is basically a cuddy, so there’s not enough height to stand up and there’s not enough space for a separate toilet compartment.

But accept those limitations and it’s a perfectly useable cabin. There’s a nice little dinette where you can tuck yourself out of the weather, and if you drop the table and slot in the infill cushions, you’ve got a very decent double bed.

There is a chemical loo under one of the seats too, so compact though it is, all the important bases are pretty well covered.

The cuddy cabin has a convertible dinette and a portable loo

Outside is where the priority clearly lies in the layout of this boat. Again, it’s compact, but it’s easy for a family to enjoy. There’s a little swim platform with a ladder and the seating wraps sociably around the aft section of the cockpit, with a fridge and a sink to starboard.

It’s also quite high-sided, adding a sense of security that’s vital for those taking their first steps afloat. At the business end, there are two seats for helm and navigator and a walk-through windscreen to access the foredeck.

Performance

Lift the back seat and you’ll discover a Yamaha 370 STI engine. The big news about this is that it’s a diesel. That means it offers lower consumption and running costs, as well as much easier availability of fuel at the dockside.

Churning out about 160hp, it ought to be good to take this affordable family cuddy to a top end of around 30 knots.

As with all Fletcher sports boats, the ride and handling are conspicuous strong points

Norman Fletcher, founder of Fletcher International Sports Boats, was a powerboat racer who understood a good hull. That’s why all Fletcher boats punch well above their weight when out at sea.

Specifications

LOA: 21ft 7in (6.6m) Beam: 8ft 6in (2.6m) Draft: 1ft 8in (0.5m) Displacement: 2 tonnes Fuel capacity: 280 litres Engine: Yamaha 370 STI 164hp diesel Location: Essex Contact: boats.co.uk

Article continues below…

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Regal 28 Express

Built: 2014 Price: £79,995

If you need something that feels a little more like motor cruising and a little less like camping, then the 25ft mark is where it all starts.

Often referred to as ‘pocket cruisers’, this is the size where increased volume creates the space for the basic essentials of comfortable onboard living.

Features like standing headroom, a separate toilet and a dedicated (rather than convertible) bed make all the difference.

The layout on this type of boat is inevitably pretty ubiquitous, simply because it’s what works best. There’s a U-shaped forward seating section that converts to a double berth or creates a dinette for meals.

Further aft, where a rising roofline generates adequate headroom, there is a small galley opposite the toilet compartment. It features a single burner hob, a sink with pressurised hot and cold water and a fridge and microwave.

Move aft again and, beneath the forward end of the cockpit, there is sufficient space for a permanent double berth. That takes the sleeping capacity to four but, more importantly, it means that if you choose to cruise as a couple, you are not continually having to convert the seating before bedding down for the night.

It features a permanent mid cabin, a convertible dinette and a lower galley and heads

A canopy turns the cockpit into quite a versatile living area. Removable sides mean you can use it as a bimini top for shade too. Another neat feature is the twin aft benches, which face each other across the table. The backrest of the aft seat pivots forward, creating an aft sunpad and locking into various positions.

You can lock it up for dining, leave it half way for chaise-longue-style lounging or lie it flat and use it for sunbathing.

A Mercruiser 350MPI V8 petrol engine sits snugly beneath the aft deck. That 350 figure refers to the capacity in cubic inches (5.7 in litres). It puts out a smooth and potent 300hp, which is enough for 30 knots plus and a reasonably economical 25-knot cruise.

With convertible seating and multi-part canopies, the cockpit is pretty versatile

The high, narrow hull requires a little tab work to keep it on an even keel in a crosswind, but this is a decent performer for its size.

LOA: 28ft 8in (8.7m) Beam: 8ft 6in (2.6m) Draft: 3ft 3in (1.0m) Displacement: 3.5 tonnes Fuel capacity: 276 litres Engine: Mercruiser 350 Magnum 300hp petrol engine Location: Torquay Contact: One Marine

Axopar 37 Sun Top

Built: 2017 Price: £154,950

The joy of this (and indeed any) Axopar is its innate practicality. Low-sided and heavily fendered by a chunky grey rubbing strake, it’s surprisingly confidence-inspiring.

The aft end of the Axopar 37 is entirely customisable when ordered new. A raised sunpad is one option, bringing enough height for a small two-berth cabin beneath.

An alternative is the flat aft deck behind the rear cockpit seating, creating a wonderful watersports arena. Whichever option the buyer chooses, you get a forward cabin ahead of the helm.

Duck into here and you’ll discover a wide open-plan environment with a double berth in the bow, a single seat and a galley area. There’s also a proper plumbed-in sea toilet down here, nestling discreetly inside a small wooden cabinet.

The cabin is bright and comfortable for two but lacks a separate heads compartment

It’s clear then that this is not designed to be a dedicated family cruiser. The focus here is alfresco fun. In addition to that impressive aft deck, the long bow space provides a set of sunbathing cushions on the cabin top.

There’s also a central cockpit space with four forward-facing seats opposite another three helm seats that swivel 180 degrees to face aft across the table.

As the sun-top version, this boat features a large hardtop with a fabric opening sunroof but other notable deck options include a cabin version which closes the cockpit off for year-round recreation.

The Axopar 37 is built for twin outboard installations. The smallest option is a pair of 200hp motors for a top speed of around 40 knots.

However, we tested the Axopar 37 with the same option as this boat, a pair of Mercury’s super smooth Verado 350 motors. And in that form, you can expect a 47-knot top end and a very easy 40-knot cruise.

Even on a 2017 model, Axopar’s prowess in day boating practicality is clear

Speed is fun but only if kept firmly under control. That’s particularly true for first-time boaters where crew confidence is paramount, but you need have no worries here.

Our man in Mallorca described the hull as “so adept, so unflappable and so flattering that it’s easy to drive fast in a big sea and still feel utterly safe and in control”.

LOA: 36ft 9in (11.2m) Beam: 10ft 10in (3.3m) Draft: 2ft 9in (0.9m) Displacement: 2.9 tonnes Fuel capacity: 770 litres Engines: Twin Mercury 350 Verado 350hp outboard engines Location: Poole Contact: Salterns Brokerage

Built: 2019 Price: £235,000

Almost a quarter of a million pounds might feel a little steep for a first boat, but it’s important to understand that people have all sorts of different budgets, and this boat works so well as a first boat that if you have the means, it’s actually a very sensible investment.

UK dealer Wessex Marine has confirmed that several have been supplied as first boats, including one to TV presenter James May .

On a Scandinavian designed and built boat, you expect plenty of cruising practicality and you get it.

In addition to a pair of very decent double cabins, plus a heads compartment and galley, the 310 features a really well protected cockpit. In all regards, it is a very safe and capable small cruiser.

Marex’s proven quick-rig canopy system makes the 310 ideal for year-round use

The cleverness of the cockpit arrangement starts with the canopy system. The open-backed hardtop has two manual sliding roofs extending fore and aft from a central bar.

You can open or close these in seconds by simply twisting the release catch and pulling. But the real pièce de résistance is the side canopy system. That hardtop extends almost to the transom, providing the perfect location for hanging the aft canopies.

Once unclipped, a split on the centreline means that both sides slide along what are effectively curtain tracks, disappearing into dedicated vertical lockers. ‘Voila!’ as they say in Norway.

The fact that these are so easy to deploy makes the large comfortable dinette aft of the helm seat particularly handy for year-round use.

A single Volvo Penta 4-cylinder D4-300 was the standard engine, but many buyers (this one included) upgraded to the larger and more powerful 6-cylinder D6-370.

We described it as a “fine match for the 310”, topping out at 35 knots and cruising at just under 30 knots.

As a premium Scandinavian cruiser, the helm is superb

The Scandinavians design their boats to be used pretty much every day and that’s why the helm position is ergonomically so good.

It’s also well protected by large windscreens, enabling the helmsman to fully enjoy “an engaging and lively driving experience”.

LOA: 31ft 0in (9.5m) Beam: 10ft 6in (3.2m) Draft: 3ft 2in (1.0m) Displacement: 4.5 tonnes Fuel capacity: 440 litres Engine: Volvo Penta D6-370 370hp diesel Location: Poole Contact: Wessex Marine

4 more beginners boats from the April 2022 issue

Bayliner 742.

Built: 2014 Price: £40,000

In the 1980s Bayliner sold on price – undercutting the competition and gaining a name for themselves as the cheapest way into a new boat. As is so often the case, however, you got what you paid for or, more accurately, didn’t get what you hadn’t paid for.

It’s fair to say that the reputation was broadly comparable to Skoda’s at the time. But just like Skoda, the company has gone through something of a renaissance, and whilst the prices are no longer bargain basement, neither is the quality – both manufacturers are turning out a pretty solid product these days.

Still the budget end of the market, it’s the frills that are reduced these days, not the quality. It’s why the cabin of this boat, first introduced to the UK at the London Boat Show in 2014, has plenty of smooth gelcoat on show rather than soft vinyl and polished wood.

But it serves its purpose just fine as a space to get out of the weather or enjoy an occasional overnight stay. There’s even a proper plumbed-in sea toilet here.

There’s a fair bit of GRP on show but it’s a perfectly decent cabin for overnighting

The same applies to the cockpit: it might be a little more functional than expensive competitors, but you can’t fault the layout or the facilities. There’s a canopy frame that folds and stows beneath the aft seat, and a cockpit wet bar behind the helm seat includes a proper fridge and a hob.

There are some neat details too, like a section of the sunpad aft that lifts to provide a backrest if required, or folds to create a walk-through from the swim platform. The passenger seat backrest also folds forward to extend the seating along the full length of the cockpit.

Bayliner offers a variety of engines from a two-litre diesel right through to a 6.2 litre V8 350 Magnum. This boat treads the middle ground with a punchy but relatively (it is a boat!) economical Mercruiser 4.3 litre V6 giving 220hp.

Functional cockpit is large, comfortable and equipped with a proper little wet bar

It’s a small, light boat, so don’t expect to be crossing the English Channel in a Force 5, but for coastal cruising in sensible conditions it’s perfectly sufficient.

Length: 24ft 6in (7.5m) Beam: 8ft 4in (2.5m) Draught: 3ft 4in (1.0m) Displacement: 1.9 tonnes Fuel capacity: 196 litres Engines: Mercruiser 4.3 litre V6 220hp Contact: Salterns Brokerage

Sealine S330

Built: 2017 Price: £209,950

Launched in 2014 and designed by Bill Dixon, the S330 was a very important boat for Sealine . When the original Kidderminster company went into administration in 2013, the brand was bought by the Hanse Group in Germany, and whilst the F380 was the first Sealine it launched, that boat was a design inherited from the British company.

The S330 was the first Sealine that Hanse developed from scratch. The boat proved to be a great success, so much so that it spawned a C330 Coupe version that remains in production today as the mildly upgraded Sealine C335 .

Sealine kept the layout traditional inside, with the usual cabin at each end separated by the saloon and galley set-up that has worked for the brand and countless others for years. There is a factory option to lose the forward bulkhead but most got the separate forward cabin.

It’s nicely done though, large hull windows offer both light and view (the former augmented by skylights), and headroom is great. This boat has the popular walnut finish to bulkheads, although oak and cherry were also offered.

The forward cabin is surprisingly light and spacious with good headroom too

The hardtop came as standard, so you won’t find a completely open version, but Sealine has been careful to retain the feeling of being outside. Not only does the roof slide almost all the way back, courtesy of having a fabric centre section, but the aft section slides forward to meet it. You can also remove the clear vinyl panels above the fixed glass sidescreens.

Three forward facing seats at the helm is a great feature, and there is plenty more seating around a table further aft.

Sealine launched this boat with a pair of Volvo Penta D3 220 220hp engines, which is exactly what this boat has got. A single Volvo Penta D6 was an alternative, and more recently Sealine launched a twin outboard engine version called the S335V. When we tested the boat at launch with the 220s, we achieved a credible 33 knots.

Few 33ft boats offer such a good balance of price, accommodation and style

Calm seas made it difficult to assess the seakeeping but we certainly enjoyed the handling, describing it as a ‘brilliant hull and powertrain’.

Length: 33ft 10in (10.3m) Beam: 11ft 6in (3.5m) Draught: 2ft 9in (0.9m) Displacement: 6.7 tonnes Fuel capacity: 570 litres Engines: Twin Volvo Penta D3 200 220hp diesel engines Contact: Boats.co.uk

Doral 250SE

Built: 2003 Price: £47,500

A rare beast in that, although the styling has distinctly American overtones, Doral boats were actually made in Canada. Prevalent in the Nineties and Noughties, Doral actually dates back to 1979 and built a range of craft from speedboats up to 50-footers.

The standout feature of this boat is the finish and the colour of the woodwork in the cabin, which looks both classy and inviting, and a huge step up from the very plain and austere looking interior of the boat we tested in 2000.

The layout is entirely conventional for a boat of this size and type, with a dinette forward, a small galley opposite the heads and a double berth running transversely beneath the cockpit.

There is standing headroom at the bottom of the steps, and although the shape of the boat means that you lose this further forward, the nature of the dinette is that you’d be sitting by this point anyway.

A smattering of wood lifts the look and feel of this Canadian built compact sportscruiser

Almost all mid-20ft sportscruisers are constrained to an 8ft 6in beam in order to maintain the ability to be towed on the road but Doral has been particularly clever in how it ekes out the maximum amount of space.

No side decks is an obvious win, access to the foredeck being granted via steps and an opening windscreen. More intriguingly, Doral has fitted a sliding section of cockpit seating, meaning that if you’re happy to lose a little bathing platform space, you can slide the aft portion out over it and drop in infill cushions. In fact, this example has the extended platform, reclaiming some lost ground.

We tested a 250SE with a 260hp Mercruiser V8 petrol engine and achieved a very sporting 37 knots! Subtract the extra weight of the diesel engine (and the extended bathing platform), add a little back for the extra 40hp of the Mercruiser 300hp diesel and you should still be the right side of 30 knots.

A full beam cockpit with a sliding aft bench makes the most of every inch

We found the handling of the 250SE to be ‘excellent’ apparently, with no heavy slamming. Like all tall narrow boats of this genre, it relies on the trim tabs to maintain an even keel in a crosswind.

Length: 28ft 8in (8.7m) Beam: 8ft 6in (2.6m) Draught: 3ft 5in (1.0m) Displacement: 3 tonnes Fuel capacity: 245 litres Engines: Mercruiser 300hp diesel engine Contact: One Marine

Fairline Targa 30

Built: 2001 Price: £69,950

The Targa 30 is the final evolution of a successful Fairline model that dates back to 1994, when it was introduced as the Targa 28. Two years later it morphed into the Targa 29 with little changing beyond a longer bathing platform.

But the Targa 30 variant introduced a new cockpit layout with a sunpad, and windows (rather than portholes) for the cabin, although bizarrely these were optional extras.

The layout echoes smaller sportscruisers with its U-shaped dinette forward, galley opposite the heads and a mid cabin aft. However, the extra length, and in particular the 10ft beam, make this a far more spacious area.

The galley is an L-shape, with room for a two-burner hob, an oven and a grill. Those hull windows are worth looking out for (although I’ve only ever seen one boat without them so they should be easy to find).

The mid-cabin is fairly tight but it’s a private escape from the open-plan saloon and dinette

A sunpad aft is the big news. Where the 28 and 29 had seating to the transom, the 30 shifts it forwards. However, Fairline cunningly claws space back via a neat swinging backrest to the passenger seating next to the helm, allowing it to be used as forward facing seating under way or join the cockpit dinette at rest. That sunpad also creates space for a very handy deck locker.

When new, you could specify your Targa 30 with a pair of 4.3-litre petrol engines (190hp or 205hp each) or a single 7.4-litre 310hp motor but the vast majority went out with twin diesels.

These 150hp AD31s gave the boat a perfectly respectable 30+ knots, but the KAD32 upgrade that this boat received doesn’t just give higher speed (past 35 knots when new), it gives far lustier acceleration due to superchargers bolstering low-end torque before the turbos spin up at higher revs.

The sunpad was a new feature introduced in the transition from a Targa 29 to a Targa 30

These boats handle brilliantly. Stable and fast, they don’t require excessive trim tab action, and spray management is great. For a 30 foot boat, it punches well above its size and weight.

Length: 31ft 2in (9.5m) Beam: 10ft 2in (3.1m) Draught: 3ft 2in (1.0m) Displacement: 4.1 tonnes Fuel capacity: 418 litres Engines: Twin Volvo Penta KAD 32/dp 170hp diesel engines Contact: boats.co.uk

First published in the April 2022 issue of MBY.

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14 Great Pocket Cruisers in 2023

• By Victor Tan
• Updated: July 20, 2023

Pocket cruisers and mini yachts are generally vessels under 50 feet in length overall, and can include express cruiser designs, flybridge yachts as well as either monohull or catamaran hull forms. They are cruising boats easily handled by a small, or even shorthanded, crew. Pocket cruisers generally have wave-taming hull designs and have the ability to take on sporty seas, offer comfortable accommodations belowdecks with one or two staterooms for extended voyages, “homelike amenities,” and the ability to cruise as slowly or as quickly as an owner desires with inboard- and outboard-power options. These pocket-cruising boats have the range for longer voyages , can pull up in skinny water at the sandbar thanks to shallow drafts, and head over the horizon where cruising adventure awaits. Pocket cruisers are true multitasking yachts. When it comes to family and couples cruising, it’s hard to beat a well-built and well-equipped and pocket cruiser.

Best Cruising Boats Under 50-Feet

The following 14 pocket cruisers and mini yachts are all vessels we’ve seen, been aboard, and tested. They are listed in no particular order.

• Hood 35 LM: high-tech, family-friendly pocket cruiser
• Galeon Yachts 375 GTO: mid-size boat with plenty of below-deck space
• Aquila 42: sleek power catamaran ready to entertain
• Azimut Verve 42 : small, yet mighty yacht ready for open water
• Hinckley Yachts 35: luxury picnic cruiser with range
• Beneteau Gran Turismo 45: sleek cruising yacht with all the amenities
• Solaris Power 48 Open: eye-catching power yacht with 360-degree views
• Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS: luxury cruiser yacht with powerful outboard options
• Back Cove 34O: modern outboard power combined with classic Downeast styling
• Picnic Boat 40: speedy and fuel-efficient vessel with great looks
• Aquila 36: comfortably seat up to 20 guests for fun on the salt
• Boston Whaler 350 Realm: multitasker built for fishing and entertaining
• MJM 35z: sporty, aesthetically pleasing, cruising-conscious features and elegant lines
• Greenline 39: sturdy-looking lines and environmentally-friendly power

When Android co-founder, Rich Miner, wanted a new family-friendly pocket cruiser , he turned to a custom-penned C.W. Hood design and a Lyman-Morse-built 35-footer, which has a timeless Down East profile matched to seriously modern technology under the hood.

This yacht looks like a traditional, cold-molded Down East dayboat, but actually, it has everything, from Hamilton HJX Series water-jet drives to a planned Sea Machines autonomous command-and-control system . Top speed: 40-plus knots.

Quick Specifications

Galeon yachts 375 gto.

Even the remnants of Hurricane Ian, couldn’t dissuade the Galeon Yacht 375 GTO from its cruising mission. The small yacht’s wave-splitting hull form is paired to torque-filled 600 hp Mercury Verado outboards , giving this fun-in-the-sun boat a 47-knot top hop.

The 375 GTO is a speedster, to be sure, but it’s also so much more. Just about every aspect of the main deck seating is transformable and multifunction, from the aft seating to the alfresco dining abaft the helm, and beyond. It also has a family-size and eminently cruise-worthy belowdecks space for four guests, all while providing a foredeck entertaining lounge too.

The Galeon Yachts 375 GTO ticks all the boxes for an easy-to-handle and sporty cruiser.

Aquila 42 Yacht Power Catamaran

Following the success of its 44-, 54- and 70-foot power catamaran models, Aquila has launched the stable-as-a-table, owner-operator-ready Aquila 42 Yacht Power Catamaran .

The Aquila 42 is the entry point into the builder’s yacht line and is noteworthy for its ability to accommodate anywhere from a two- to four-stateroom layout, depending on the owner’s cruising requirements. There are alfresco spaces to manage the sunset cruise with friends and family, including a foredeck lounge area that can be accessed via centerline steps from the flybridge. The Aquila 42 is available with several Volvo Penta diesel-engine options .

Azimut Verve 42

Want to cruise from Florida to Bimini in about an hour? The Azimut Yachts Verve 42 can do that thanks, in part, to triple 450 hp Mercury Racing outboards and a hull designed to dice-and-slice a seaway. Top hop: 45 knots. The Verve 42 also has style for miles with a fine entry, raked hardtop, and a razorlike sheerline accented by sweeping hull glass from bow to stern. It’s striking.

With accommodation for a family of four, the Verve 42 is also solid under the hull tokeep everyone safe on those passages. The Verve 42’s hull is built of fiberglass and uses vinylester resins for blister protection. The yacht’s deck and hardtop are comprised of carbon fiber for strength without added weight. This all means that the Azimut Verve 42 is built to CE Classification Type A , making it suitable for sea voyages where winds can exceed 45 mph and seas to 13 feet.

Hinckley Yachts 35

The Hinckley Yachts 35 takes everything that yachtsmen like about this pedigreed-brand’s classic profile and infuses today’s modern outboard power to create 40 knots of sheer fun wrapped in sheer luxury.

This 35-foot Hinckley is built on a Michael-Peters-penned hull form with a fine entry, wider-than-average chines and a moderate deadrise. While the boat is built to sprint when desired, it’s also a relatively economical cruiser. For instance, a comfortable 24-knot cruise the Hinckley Yachts 35 has a 276-nautical-mile range.

It also has a tech-build thanks to vacuum-infused carbon-fiber composites and epoxy resin. An integrated interior structure is infused with the hull adding rigidity. The hull is then post-cured in an 80-foot oven, further strengthening the structure.

Beneteau Gran Turismo 45

The Beneteau Gran Turismo is the flagship of the builder’s four-model GT series, which also includes 32-, 36- and 41-foot models.

The Gran Turismo 45 ’s cruise-centric layout includes two staterooms and two heads belowdecks, as well as a galley down. There is also a dinette for meals and a settee for rainy-day lounging. Entertaining guests and enjoying the sun is the primary mission of the main deck.

Solaris Power 48 Open

The Solaris Power 48 Open was the first powerboat from this longtime builder known for its sailing yachts, ranging from 40 to 110 feet length overall. The Solaris Power 48 Open is notable for its wave-slicing plumb-bow design, high freeboard forward and 32-knot-plus speed. Power is twin 480 hp Volvo Penta IPS650 diesels.

The high freeboard keeps the deck dry and help creates sizable volume belowdecks with an average 6-foot-6-inch headroom. This enables real estate for either one or two staterooms. With the single-stateroom setup, there is a forepeak master stateroom while an L-shaped settee converts to sleeping accommodations for family or occasional guests. Interior wood options are oak or walnut.

Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS

Outboard-power cruising aficionados will appreciate the triple-engine options for the Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS . The 42 GLS we got aboard had the triple 400 hp Mercury Verados , which produced a top hop of 45 knots, but triple 450 hp Verados are available. Triple 350 hp Mercury Verados are the standard engine option. No matter the power arrangement, this express cruiser can easily be used for wakeboarding and tube towing. The 42 GLS is designed to handle the rough stuff too, with a fine entry and 21-degree transom deadrise.

For cruising enthusiasts, the 42 GLS has a master stateroom with an athwartships and a nearly queen-size berth, and the lower salon’s U-shaped dinette converts to a queen-size berth for the kids.

Back Cove 34O

Combining modern outboard power with classic Downeast styling, the Back Cove 34O touts award-winning standards with cruising in mind. The 34O is equipped with twin 300 hp Yamaha outboards, engines that allow the Newport International Boat Show’s 2018 Best Powerboat Under 35 Feet winner to travel up to 214 nautical miles at 24 knots on a 250-gallon fuel tank.

Belowdecks, the 34O has an island double berth and a split-head arrangement with the toilet to port and a separate shower stall to starboard. On the main deck, a U-shape dinette to port accommodates four or more guests on the Back Cove Yachts vessel. The 34O’s galley is equipped with a Cuisinart microwave, a two-burner Kenyon electric cooktop and a Vitrifrigo fridge and freezer.

Picnic Boat 40

Hinckley Yachts unveiled its first Picnic Boat more than two decades ago. Now, after two previous, sub-40-foot models, the Maine-based boatbuilder has developed its largest and most advanced model to date: the Picnic Boat 40.

Twin 480 hp Cummins diesel engines paired to twin Hamilton 322 jet drives propel the yacht to a 30-knot cruising speed and 34 knots on the pins. With optional twin 550 hp Cummins diesels, cruise and top-end speeds jump to 35 and 38 knots, respectively.

There is an L-shaped settee with a table and a wet bar on the main deck to port. The helm station is forward and to starboard with a benchseat for two. There is also a companion seat across from the helm. Belowdecks, there is 6-foot-2-inch headroom, and the dinette table drops to form a California-king berth for overnights and weekending.

Aquila Power Catamarans started its line with 44- and 48-footers, and now the builder’s Aquila 36 takes the line into the midsize market.

The 36 features a single, main-living area from bow to stern, helped in part by the vessel’s 14-foot, 7-inch beam. The boat can comfortably seat up to 20 guests for fun on the salt. Several Mercury Verado engine options are available for the Aquila 36, including twin 250-, 300- and 350-hp four-strokes. With the 350s, the Aquila has a top-end speed of 37 knots.

Other notable features include a fiberglass hardtop, a dinette, a cooktop, a fridge, a sink and a smokeless grill. Belowdecks, there are two staterooms with nearly queen-size berths, en suite heads and 6-foot-6-inch headroom in each.

Boston Whaler 350 Realm

From fishing and entertaining guests to diving and overnight cruising, Boston Whaler ‘s 350 Realm is a multitasker. And it’s fast, too. It’s powered with either triple 300 hp or triple 350 hp Mercury Verados. The 350 Realm can reach a top speed of 46 knots.

At the helm, two Raymarine displays provide vital navigation data. The captain can take in the displays’ view from a doublewide helm seat. There’s a flip-down platform for standing when needed and a footrest when desired.

There is a V-shaped berth that converts into a double berth with a filler cushion. The separated head has a VacuFlush MSD and a hot-and-cold shower. Owners also have the option to add a microwave and a flat-screen TV.

The MJM 35z can reach a top speed of 44 knots and a cruising speed of 33 knots on its optional 350 hp Mercury Verado outboards; twin 300 hp outboards are standard on this MJM Yachts vessel. Additionally, the 35z can travel up to 304 nautical miles on its 250-gallon fuel tank.

The 35z has a flush-deck layout and to port is space for an electric grill, a baitwell, a sink, an ice maker and a fridge. There are two Stidd helm seats—one for the helmsman and the other for a copilot—that rotate to face the rest of the seating aft. In the cabin is V-shaped seating forward that can be converted to a berth.

Owners also have the option of adding a Seakeeper 3 gyrostabilizer and a full-length Bimini top to shade the cockpit.

Greenline 39

Greenline Yachts ‘ vessels are aptly named for their environmentally friendly means of moving about; the Greenline 39 is no different. The Slovenian yacht manufacturer produces two types of this model: hybrid and solar.

If owners opt for the latter, the 39’s four solar panels atop the salon power all of the vessel’s systems for three hours. With the power of the sun, the 39 can achieve a max speed of 6.5 knots and a cruising speed of 4 knots. The hybrid type uses those same panels to help power a 220 hp Volvo Penta D3 with a Mahle electric-drive system. Owners have the option of replacing the standard engine with a 370 hp Yanmar 8LV diesel.

Belowdecks, scissor berths provide accommodations for long weekends.

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Best Boats for Beginners

But first, let's look at some of the best boat types for new boaters.

5 Best Starter Boats

• Aluminum Fishing Boat
• Pontoon Boat
• Fish-and-Ski

Explore All Boat Types

Keep It Simple (KISS) Boating

When it comes to choosing the best boats for beginners, one overall theme should be in your mind: keep it simple. This naturally means different things to different people, but what’s important is that a beginner boater doesn’t bite off more than he or she can chew. Start with a large motor yacht or power cruiser , for example, and you’ll need to learn how to operate complex propulsion and electrical systems, electronics, and accessories. At the same time you’ll have to get your feet wet when it comes to things like docking a boat (see our step-by-step guide for the basics), marine navigation , and boat maintenance . That doesn’t mean first-time boat buyers never start off big—sometimes they do—but the learning curve can be very steep and if you go that route you should be confident you have the time and ability to handle it.

Start off with a very simple boat, however, and you’ll be able to master captaining it in no time. At the far end of the KISS spectrum consider a dinghy , for example. Its propulsion system can be as simple as a small outboard engine, a sail, or even a pair of oars. There’s nothing more to take care of than a hull and some seats, and while your capabilities may be limited, you should feel comfortable operating the boat after just a few trips. Of course, many of us will want to experience a bit more flexibility on when, where, and how we go boating than a dinghy can afford. There are still plenty of relatively simple boats to choose from, like aluminum fishing boats or small pontoon boats , which take no more than a season or two to learn from stem to stern.

Costs of Boats for Beginners

Another major thing to consider is the cost of boat ownership . While boating on the whole is surprisingly affordable compared to many other recreational activities, there can be some expenses beginner boaters don’t necessarily foresee. Variables like maintenance costs, insurance, and off-season storage can come into play, and no one likes to be surprised by unexpected expenditures.

For some people this will be a non-issue. But if you have a family on a budget, be sure to calculate out as many potential costs as you can before choosing a specific boat to begin with. That way, the surprises can be kept to a minimum.

Learn More About the Costs of Boat Ownership

All-Purpose Boats for Beginners

Beginner boaters may also want to consider flexibility and versatility as an important factor. Let’s say you know you love watersports , and you’re looking at dedicated ski or wake boats . That may well be the best move for you. But on the other hand, if you haven’t experienced other waterborne activities like fishing, and you think that may be of interest down the line, a fish-and-ski might be a better choice. Now let’s broaden things out ever farther. Let’s say you went wakeboarding once and enjoyed it, tried fishing another time and enjoyed that too, and are intrigued by the idea of taking the family out for a swim in the lake or taking a bunch of friends out for a day of coving. In that case, an even more versatile boat like a bowrider or a deck boat might be a smart pick.

The bottom line? As someone new to boating there’s a good chance you’re about to be exposed to a world of possibilities you never knew existed. And the best boats for beginners will allow that to happen quickly, easily, and economically. Before you know it, you won’t be a beginner boater anymore and when you decide to upgrade, you’ll have a much better idea of which size and type of boat is perfect for your needs and desires. And yes, we’re sure that you will, in fact, decide to upgrade and buy another new boat down the line. Because like we said, this is going to be fun – really fun.

Read Next: First-Time Boat Owner's Checklist

You Might Also Like:

• Best Boats for Families
• Best Small Sailboats for Beginners
• When is the Best Time to Buy a Boat?
• The Ultimate Boat Buyer's Guide
• Small Boats: What Are My Options?

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5 Best Boats for Beginners for 2022

Table of Contents

Here’s our best advice for any new prospective boat buyer or owner: Don’t let the boat get in the way of learning how to be a boater. The easiest way to get frustrated or overwhelmed by boating is to start in a boat that’s too big, too expensive, or too complicated, or with a boat that’s unreliable. Instead, choose a starter boat that will help you ease your way into boat ownership .

Here’s our short list of the five best beginner boats to help you narrow down your options:

• Pontoon Boat
• Aluminum Fishing Boat
• Center Console

Already Own a Boat? Learn How to Offset the Cost of Ownership by Listing on Boatsetter

How to Choose the Best Starter Boat for Your Family

As you start to browse online boat marketplaces or visit local dealers, you’ll find a variety of entry-level boats to choose from. Here’s a few tips to keep in mind when selecting the best beginner boat for you and your needs:

Keep it simple

Larger and high-end boats are often equipped complex propulsion and electrical systems, electronics, and accessories. As a beginning boat owner, you need to focus on learning the rules of the road, basic boat-handling skills, how to launch a retrieve the boat from a trailer; in other words, Boating 101.

A boat with basic systems will let you stay focused on developing these skills.

Try before you buy

Would you buy a new car without taking it for a test drive? Didn’t think so—and the same idea should be true for boats. Most dealers will offer sea trials for serious boat shoppers, as long as inventory is in stock.

If you’re not ready to speak to a dealer just yet, or if you’re still weighing your options between different brands and models, a better alternative is to book a rental on a peer-to-peer marketplace like Boatsetter. With over 50,000 boats made up of over 20,000 different makes and models, you’ll be able to find a rental that’s comparable to the boat you’re eyeing to purchase.

Stick to a budget

Before you buy a boat, establish a budget that includes the cost of buying and financing the boat, fuel , maintenance and storage. Then stick too that budget.

Too often new boat owners underestimate the cost of a season on the water, or stretch that budget too thin. Boating is no fun if it’s taking too big a bite out of your wallet.

Get educated

Safe boating is always fun boating for everyone. Consider taking a boating safety and education course such as those offered by the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary , BoatUS , or by your state or local authorities.

Top Beginner Boats Options

1. pontoon boat.

Stable and easy to handle, a pontoon is a great way to get started on the water. Pontoons cover a huge spectrum of size and features, so it will be easy to pick a model that fits your budget, the water you’ll be boating on, and the activities that appeal to you.

Boatsetter Examples: The Manitou Aurora LE line is an example of a pontoon series that is designed to be easy to buy and to own.

2. Jet Boat

A jet boat offers the ultimate in powerboat simplicity. Its jet propulsion system eliminates a propeller, so there’s nothing to ding on the bottom. The jet drive also requires less maintenance than an outboard or a sterndrive powertrain, and is self-draining so it’s easy to prep for off-season storage. Operation is as simple as steering and controlling the throttle.

Boatsetter Examples: The best-selling Yamaha jet boat line includes runabouts, watersports and center console models.

3. Aluminum Fishing Boat

A good all-around aluminum fishing boat can be used for almost any kind of freshwater angling, including bass fishing . Choose a size that matches your budget and the type of water you’ll be fishing. These boats are easy to tow and launch, and can be upgraded with accessories as you gain experience.

Boatsetter Examples: A mod V hull aluminum model like the Bass Tracker XL is ideal for rivers and calmer water. For bigger water where choppy conditions are likely an aluminum boat with a deep vee hull like a Tracker Deep-V model is the better choice.

4. Center Console Boat

A popular choice for coastal boating, a center console model can be set up for fishing or with more seating and comfort amenities for day-cruising. Outboard power and a deep-vee hull are ideal for salt water boating, and center console models cover a wide range of size and price.

Boatsetter Examples: Wellcraft Fisherman and Bayliner Trophy center console models are a good entry point in this category.

5. Runabout Boat

A runabout, or bowrider , is a great choice for all-around family boating, and known to be one of the best beginner boats that can suit a variety of needs. A runabout can be used for watersports, for casual angling, for day-cruising and for just lounging at a cove or beach. Runabout models cover a huge range of size and price point. A dealer can help you choose a boat length that’s a good match for the body of water on which you’ll usually be boating.

Boatsetter Examples: Top entry-level runabout models are offered by Bayliner and Glastron .

Earn an Average of $20,000 or More by Listing Your Boat for Rent on Boatsetter

Charles Plueddeman  is a self-employed writer and photographer based in Wisconsin. A staff editor and contributor to  Boating Magazine  since 1986, he is the author of its “Off My Dock” column. In the marine realm he specializes in engine technology and trailerable boats. His editorial work has appeared in many national publications, including  Popular Mechanics, Men’s Journal, Playboy, Popular Science, Cycle World,  and  Harley-Davidson Enthuisast .

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Best Boats For Beginners

This post is a beginners guide to buying your first boat. When I first started to dig deep into the research and figure out what the best types of boats for beginners were, I had no idea that there were so many different types of boats to choose from.

There are so many different choices that I was both excited and nerves at the same time, trying to make sure that I make the right decision.

I put together a list of questions that I had when I first began my search, and I want to share with you the list of questions and answers that I found to be helpful. I hope this information helps you as much as it helped me.

What Type of Boat Should I Buy?

After doing a lot of research on the different types of boats out there, I figured out what my needs were, and I narrowed my search down to these six types of boats:

• Bowrider boat
• Cruiser boat
• Dual Console boat
• Pontoon boat
• Runabout boat
• Walkarounds boat

With so many great choices to choose from, I wanted to take my time and make sure that I got it right, and that is the biggest piece of advice I can offer you as well.

Before you begin your search you need to ask yourself a few questions and be honest when you answer them.

• Am I looking for a big boat or a small boat?
• Do I want a boat that I can haul behind my vehicle to different watering holes?
• Will I be entertaining friends or family on the boat?
• Can I afford to buy this boat and keep up with the maintenance on it?
• What type of maintenance would this boat require every year?
• Do I need something that will have a lot of extra storage space onboard?
• Will I be towing the kids around in this boat?
• Do I need a cabin below deck so the kids can take a nap or we can spend the night on the boat?

Once you’ve answered these questions to yourself honestly, take a good look at what each type of boat has to offer and see if that boat will fill your needs.

What Types of Boats Are There?

There are several different types of boats which makes it difficult to list them all. It’s much easier to list them into three main categories, such as;

• Man-powered boats (pedal boats, kayaks, rafts, paddle boats, canoes, gondolas, etc.)
• Sailboats (boats that rely on wind power to move)
• Motorboats (boats that run on an engine)

Different Types of Boats and Their Uses

Bass Boat Just like in the name, bass boats are primarily used for bass fishing or other types of sports fishing. Bass boats are typically used in freshwaters such as lakes, rivers, and streams. Two ways usually propel bass boats; the first way is by an outboard motor which can move the boat quickly from place to place, and the second way is from a trolling motor that helps guide the vessel slowly where the angler is fishing.

Bay or flats Boat These type of boats are favorable for fisherman since the boat has many features they look for, such as rod racks, fish boxes, rod holders and livewells. Most also come with fore and aft casting decks, which elevate your position while fishing. Bay boats usually range between 18 to 24 feet in length.

Bowrider Boat The bowrider is an excellent choice for families who want to get together and enjoy cruising around the open waters. These boats can fit 8 or more passengers in the main “cockpit” area as well as in the front V section also known as the “bow cockpit.”

Catamaran Boats Catamarans range in size from small (personal vessel) to very large (naval ships or car ferries). There are two types of catamarans to choose from, a powered catamaran or a sailing style catamaran. They feature two parallel hulls of equal size and are excellent for fishing or leisurely trips.

Center Console Boats As the name would suggest, a center console boat is a type of single decked, open hull boat with the console being in the center of the ship. This center console option makes it easier for people to walk all around the ship from the stern to the bow with ease. Some center console boats even have a cabin located in the bow of the ship which could hold small berths for sleeping.

Cruiser – or Cabin Cruiser Boats Cabin cruisers are perfect for those who want to cruise around all day on the water with all of the amenities you can find at home. These are also great for people who want to spend a couple of days out at sea, as they come with a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters. They also have both air conditioning and heating for those hot days, and cold nights. Typically cruisers range between 25′ to 45′.

Cuddy Cabin Cuddy cabin boats are great for those who want a boat that is versatile regarding the type of usage. For example, they are great for anyone who is looking to fish, sail, water sports and of course yachting.

Deck Boat A deck boat is like a bowrider, but instead of a V-shape front seating area, it’s more rounded and can seat a few more people. The width of the deck boat is also a little bigger than the bowrider as well.

Dinghy This type of boat is much smaller and customarily towed or carried on larger vessels as a lifeboat or tender.

Downeast Cruiser This type of boat can seat six to eight people with a large cockpit. These boats were used mainly by lobster and commercial fisherman. They contain a lower living section on board for those long days at sea.

Dual Console Dual console boats are an excellent choice for anyone who’s looking to do some water sports such as, waterskiing, or wakeboarding. But they are also an excellent choice for those who want to do some fishing.

High-Performance Boat These are the boats that get you from point A to point B, FAST. The high-performance boat was designed for the boater who has a real need for speed and wants to look good while doing it. High-performance boats are often used in races.

Houseboat Houseboats are just like an apartment on the water, and some even come with more amenities then you would find in an apartment on land. Some of the amenities they feature are: Hot tub and fireplace, shower, sink, toilet, propane BBQ, beds, T.V.s, and the list could go on. These are great boats if you want to get the family together and enjoy several nights out on the water. There are lots of people who call these boats their home on the water.

Inflatable Boat Inflatable boats can either be used to tow behind larger vessels for some fun on the water or rigged with an outboard engine, steering wheel and seats to patrol around the water.

Jet Boat Jet boats are great for going fast and still gives you a sense of control, and can be used in much shallower water because of the inboard design. You’ll typically see these boats being used by tour companies who offer jet boating experiences along a river. They are great for towing behind skiers or wakeboarders.

Jon Boat A Jon boat is a flat-bottomed boat made out of either aluminum, wood or fiberglass. Depending on the length of Jon boat, they would typically have one, two or three bench seats. They range in size between 8 to 24 feet long, and 32 to 60 inches wide. These boats are great for fishing or hunter. An outboard motor could even get mounted to the rear.

Pilothouse Boat These are great cruising, fishing, and diving boats. The design and layout allow the crew to be able to remain safe within the boat but with visibility to see what’s going outside.

Pontoon Boat Similar to the catamaran, pontoon boats are designed to accommodate many people, with its flat top and multiple seating wrapping around the boat. Pontoon boats are great for leisure or fishing, with plenty of storage space on board. They are typically cheaper to insure than other types of boats. The length of a pontoon boat range from 15 to 30 feet. The larger you go, the more seating you get.

PWC (Personal Watercraft) Personal watercraft are otherwise known as a jet ski or water scooter. There are two styles, such as a sit-down or a stand-up. The sit-down style can generally seat two or three people, while the stand-up style is meant for a solo rider.

Rigid-hulled Inflatable (RHIB) or Rigid-Inflatable boat (RIB) These are lightweight, high-performance, and solidly constructed vessels. They are built for the sea and designed to maintain its buoyancy. These boats are popular among trades that operate on the water, as well as military craft who use them to transport troops between vessels and shore.

Runabout A runabout boat is a name for any small motorboat that holds between four and eight people. Some of the traditional runabout boats would be the bow rider, cuddy boat, center console boat, and the walkaround boat. Runabout boats could be used as a ship’s tender for larger vessels.

Ski and Wakeboard Boat These boats are typically any inboard board with the engine being in the back, and V-shaped front end hull, because these boats will create a large, specially shaped wake, for the skiers or wakeboarders to jump the waves from side to side.

Skiff Boat A skiff boat is a style of small boat used for leisure, such as fishing, and they have room for either one person or a minimal crew.

Utility Boat These boats get built tough, and are great for fishing or just getting from one spot to another. They don’t have a lot of space, but they are great for taking a friend or two with you on the water. You can get utility boats with either bench seating or build in chairs. There’s usually only three benches or 2 chairs.

Walkarounds This boat is a cross between a center console boat and a cuddy boat or express, and like those two types of boats, the walkaround boat is also an excellent choice for fishing.

Kayak A kayak is a small, narrow boat with one or more cockpits, where each cockpit seats one paddler. Kayaks get propelled by a double-bladed paddle that each passenger would use. Kayaks are designed to flip back side up if they tip over.

Gondola Gondolas have a flat bottom and traditionally used on the Venetian lagoons in Venice. It is propelled by a gondolier utilizing a rowing oar.

Canoe A canoe is a long lightweight, narrow boat with bench seating that fit multiple people at once. The boat is typically pointed at both ends, so it doesn’t matter which way you are facing to row forward. You can find canoes with one end pointed and the other end flat. A single-bladed paddle propels canoes.

How Much Should I Spend on My First Boat?

Deciding how much to spend on my first boat was the toughest question that I kept asking myself. When I first started to look into the different types of boats, there were I didn’t even have a clue at how much a boat would cost. Now that I’ve narrowed down my search on what type of boat I wanted to buy, it was time to price these boats out. I knew I didn’t want to spend a lot of money on my first boat so I looked around and gathered the prices I could find online. I was surprised to learn exactly how expensive boats were to buy brand new. The prices ranged from $18,000+ (Express Fishing boat) to $250,000+ (Cabin Cruiser).

So after learning what a brand new boat was going to cost me, I decided to buy a used boat as my first boat to stay on the side of caution. After all, I had never owned a boat before, and I wanted to make sure this was something that my family and I would enjoy doing together throughout the summer months. The prices for a used boat ranged from $3,000+ (older model Express Fishing boat) to $35,000+ (much older models of Cabin Cruiser).

When is The Best Time to Purchase a New Boat?

A lot of people tend to wait until the end of the season, like September or October to begin shopping around for a new boat. A lot of dealerships might be more likely to give you a better deal because waiting until the end of the season makes sense, that’s when the demand for a boat tends to slow way, way down.

Does a Trailer Come With My New Boat Purchase?

Trailers normally get sold separately. You can try to negotiate a better price on the trailer when buying a new boat or see if they will throw one in with the deal. You might also find package deals offered by the dealership which would include the trailer with the boat.

Recommended

Buyer’s Guide For a First Time Boat Purchase

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Motor boats for beginners: Everything you need to know

• Isobel Smith

Looking to get into motor boats? Discover the options available that’ll see you out on the water in no time

Speed, comfort and style – these are the mantras of motor boat fans. You can go from flying through the waves at 35 knots to lying on a sunpad at some remote anchorage, drink in hand, and still make it home in time for tea.

Motor boats are a great way to get out on the water and it’s fairly easy to pick up the basics. Read our guide to find out more…

Boat training

The first step to enjoying motor boats is taking the necessary boat training that’ll teach you everything you need to know about boat handling.

The RYA has a number of courses on offer , ranging from complete beginners, all the way through to those looking to test their motor boat skills in more demanding conditions.

The RYA’s level 1 course is a great place to start for a complete beginner, but if you have some experience already, then taking the RYA level 2 course may be a better option. Either course is no longer than two days, with level 1 costing around £200 and level 2 around £340.

There are hundreds of RYA training centres throughout the UK that offer the necessary training and you can use the RYA’s online tool to find your nearest venue .

Hiring motor boats

Once you’ve developed a love of boating, it’s not surprising that you’ll want to spend more and more time out on the water. Hiring a boat is a commitment-free way to enjoy the sport without costs such as maintenance and mooring fees.

Many centres across the UK will allow you to hire a small RIB for either a few hours or up to a week. You can expect to pay up to £50 per hour for motor boat hire, depending on the make and model and around £140 for a full day.

Buying a boat

Many people dream of buying a motor boat and depending on what you’re looking for, you can pick up some models of smaller boats on the market for just a few thousand pounds.

Take a look at an online brokerage site to see average prices and search MBY’s boat reviews to find a model that suits your needs. If you’re not sure which boat would be best for your needs you can ask our motor boat forum community for recommendations.

Boat membership

Boat membership schemes are a great alternative to owning a boat as you can get experience out on the water without the financial commitment. All you have to do is pay a joining fee and then a fixed monthly sum to use a boat.

The majority of boats involved in boat memberships will have one owner member and up to seven memberships per boat. Once signed up, you can use an online calendar to book your time on board.

There are three different types of membership boating: single, flexible and crewed. If you want to use the same boat then single boat membership is a good option, while flexible gives you the chance to skipper a boat of your choice when you want.

On a crewed membership scheme you can join a skippered boat with similar people for 10 days throughout the year or make private crewing arrangements.

Prices will vary but RIBs will set you back around £300 per month, while a 40ft sportscruiser  could cost you up to £1,000 a month, in addition to fuel costs.

Boat sharing

Another alternative is shared boat ownership , whereby you share the purchase and running costs of a vessel with others, making it significantly cheaper than buying a motor boat outright on your own.

The boat is managed for you so you can focus on being out on the water rather than administration and maintenance.

Chartering motor boats

Chartering a yacht is essentially hiring a boat for a fixed period of time in a specific location, ranging from exotic destinations halfway across the world to holiday spots in UK waters.

Countries such as Greece, Turkey and Croatia are extremely popular charter destinations but there are hundreds to choose from.

Depending on the size of boat, location and whether your charter includes crew you can pay anything from £500 pp upwards.

My Cruiser Life Magazine

Best Boat for Beginners – Starter Boats for Cruisers and Liveaboards

Embarking on the maritime journey of boating can be an exhilarating adventure, especially for beginners eager to explore the vast beauty of the waters. Choosing the best boat for starters is crucial, as it lays the foundation for a safe, enjoyable, and fulfilling experience on the waves. Dive into the world of boating with confidence, as we explore the best starter boats for cruisers and liveaboards, setting sail towards your aquatic adventures.

Table of Contents

6 best beginner boats for traveling and living aboard, what to consider when choosing beginner boats, easiest boats to drive, the trailerable pocket cruiser – ranger tug 25, coastal cruising sailboat, the classic best first boat – catalina 30.

• Trusty Trawlers That Make Good Boats for Beginners – Island Gyspy 32

Best Starter Boat That’s a Solid Bluewater Sailboat – Pacific Seacraft Crealock 34

Best starter boat for family, the small cruising sail catamaran – pdq 32, small cruising power catamaran – pdq 32/34 mv, 1. dinghies, 2. bowriders, 3. pontoon boats, 4. center console boats, 5. inflatable boats, 6. day sailers, a simple boat makes the best first boat, boats for beginners cost, size and length of your starter boat, insurance for first time boater buyers, choosing the right boat, best boats for beginners – where will it take you, beginner boats faqs.

Here’s our list of the top six best boats for beginners.

• Ranger Tug 25
• Catalina 30
• Island Gyspy 32
• Pacific Seacraft Crealock 34
• PDQ 32/34 MV

Of course, any list like this will always leave off a few gems. The purpose is not to point you towards a specific model but to give you some ideas of the cruising boats out there.

Remember, there’s no perfect boat for everyone for every situation. Boats are romantic, but they’re just tools. So start thinking about where you want to take your boat and what you want to do with it before settling on the perfect starter boat.

There are two schools of thought when picking your first boat. Either start small and work up to the big dream boat you want. Or dive in head first.

For example, what’s the point of owning an 18-foot jet boat or ski boat if you want a 36-footer to do the Great Loop in?

Of course, the reality is more complicated than either of these options. If your dream boat is circumnavigating in a 50-foot sailing catamaran and you’ve never set foot on a boat before, you’ll have a tough time getting insurance.

So, a good boat for beginners represents a compromise – like all boats do. They need to be small enough to be easy to learn, easy to drive, and easy to own. But they also need to give you the capability you want, or else what’s the point of buying the boat?

Best Beginner Boats

How did we pick these boats? With the theme of taking your home with you, traveling long distances, and living aboard, these boats allow you to do all that while keeping it simple and reliable.

If you’re looking for a trailerable cruising boat, Ranger Tugs need to be on your shortlist. The company made a name with the well-regarded 25, a tiny tug that seemingly packs in everything you need. Galley, private head, large stateroom, and plenty of living space are all inside a boat that is, quite frankly, one of the cutest things you’ll ever see on the water. Ranger Tugs have personality, and their owners a fanatical about them. Check out their owner’s group for more information, the Tug Nuts .

A boat on a trailer is an excellent compromise in many ways. Ranger Tugs are pricey–you could probably get a 34-foot trawler for less money. But that boat would require you to haul out for maintenance and pay slip fees. On the other hand, a Ranger Tug could live in your backyard, conceivably, and be driven to the mechanic. If you have the time, it could also be trailered over land to cruise to distant destinations too far for the average boat. Imagine being able to commute from the Keys or Bahamas in the winter and Maine in the summer, or even move to Washington State for a few months?

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Other similar options include the trailerable Rosborough 246 or the not-so-trailerable Nordic Tug 26 and 32. The Camino Troll is also worth a look.

Catalina has made a lot of great sailboats over the years, but the 30 has always stood out. It’s the perfect size for a beginner and still big enough to live aboard for extended periods. It has a surprising amount of interior volume, but it still sails well and is a popular racer. Catalina offered many rig heights and keel designs over the years, so research your options carefully. Best of all, there are plenty of the 30s on the used market, so you should be able to find a reasonable price on one in good condition and equipped well.

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There are plenty of options in the coast cruiser market. You can pick any Catalina between 25 and 35 feet and get a winner. Check out our list of the 25 best sailboat manufacturers for even more options. These boats are inexpensive and simple, and many were built, so it’s easier to find some bargains.

Trusty Trawlers That Make Good Boats for Beginners – Island Gyspy 32

Trawlers don’t get enough attention on lists like this one. The Island Gypsy is a popular make that competes with the high-end Grand Banks trawlers. They have voluminous interiors with huge windows and comfortable living spaces. Smaller trawlers like this usually have a single engine, an important factor in keeping maintenance and operating costs low. Operating at slow speeds, and boat like this will run economically with a fuel burn of only a few gallons an hour.

Maintenance-wise, you’ll want to consider your options carefully for a boat like this. These boats were nearly all built in Taiwan in the 1970s and 80s, and the quality of various boatyards can be shocking. Common problems include corrosion in the tanks and leaking windows. Teak decks of that age are also nearly always a problem. Older wooden trawlers should only be considered by enthusiasts and never beginners. Some trawler brands had more problems than others, and we chose Island Gypsy for their reputation for building quality vessels.

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The DeFever Passagemaker is another popular choice for a small trawler. If you’d like something a little newer, check out the Mainship 34, Monk 36, or Beneteau Swift Trawlers .

Speaking of quality vessels, if you’re eyeing getting into serious passage making and want a boat that can go anywhere, Pacific Seacraft should be on your list. It’s a stout vessel that is exceptionally well built and has space for a cruising couple to take it anywhere in comfort. It has a big boat feel lacking in most pocket cruiser sailboat designs.

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There are plenty of other bluewater sailboats, but the focus is on the small size and simple operation. Consider also the Pacific Seacraft Orion 27, Cabo Rico 34, Hans Christian 33, Baba 30/Toshiba 31, Cape Dory 28, Halbery-Rassy 35, or Shannon 28. Most folks will find these boats on the small side as long-term cruisers, but they’re great boats that are an awesome place to start.

PDQ was a Canadian-built multihull brand that was very popular in the 1990s and early 2000s. Their most popular model was the Capella 36, but the 32 is an even more interesting vessel. PDQ had a reputation for building well-thought-out boats to a high standard. Compared to most of the new multihulls on the market today, a well-cared-for PDQ is still an exceptional value.

Features that make the 32 exceptionally attractive include the large and functional galley and wrap-around salon windows on the bridge deck. Most boats were built with bridgedeck mounted outboard motors, a huge benefit regarding maintenance costs and operational complexity. The LRC (long-range cruiser) models have inboard diesels, significantly adding to the boat’s complexity. https://www.practical-sailor.com/sailboat-reviews/used_sailboats/the-pdq-32-a-comfortable-cruising-cat

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There aren’t many other well-built cruising cats of this size out there, and PDQ didn’t make very many 32s. One similar boat is the Gemini 105MC, a much more popular boat that has similar capabilities but a lower build quality. The Maine Cat 30 is a better choice, although much newer and more expensive. The Endeavorcat 30 and 35 are also worth considering.

PDQ also produced a popular motor multihull, the 34. This trawler-looking design packs a big punch in a small space. With twin diesel engines, it’s one of the easiest to drive boats on our list. It has an upper bridge deck for driving outside and an inner helm for bad weather.

There aren’t many power catamarans that compete with the PDQ in terms of this size. Most you will find are either much newer and larger, or are geared toward fishing more than cruising.

Best Types of Boats for Beginners

The best types of boats for beginners often combine ease of use, stability, and manageability. Some highly recommended options:

Small, lightweight boats that can be sailed, rowed, or powered by a small outboard motor.

• Pros: Affordable, easy to handle, and great for learning the basics of sailing and boating. They’re also easy to transport and store.
• Ideal For: Learning to sail, short day trips, and inland waters.

Open bow area boats with seating; they often come with inboard or outboard engines.

• Pros: Versatile, good for a variety of activities like fishing, watersports, and cruising. They offer a balance of comfort and performance.
• Ideal For: Families and beginners looking for a multipurpose boat for lakes and calm coastal waters.

Flat-deck boats mounted on two or more metal tubes (pontoons), offering stability and lots of space.

• Pros: Very stable, spacious, and comfortable, making them perfect for leisurely outings, fishing, and entertaining.
• Ideal For: Lakes and calm, inland waterways; great for social outings and family trips.

Boats with a steering station in the center, providing an open deck plan and 360-degree access around the boat.

• Pros: Easy to maneuver, offering good visibility and versatility for fishing, diving, and day cruising.
• Ideal For: Beginners interested in fishing and coastal cruising who want more mobility around the boat.

Boats made from flexible tubes with pressurized gas; can be rigid (RIB) or soft-bottomed.

• Pros: Portable, lightweight, and easy to store. They’re stable, making them good for calm waters and short excursions.
• Ideal For: Short trips, tender for a larger boat, or when storage space is limited.

Small sailing boats designed for daytime use, not equipped with overnight accommodations.

• Pros: Simple to operate and maintain, offering a pure sailing experience. They’re great for learning the fundamentals of sailing.
• Ideal For: Aspiring sailors and those interested in day trips on lakes or protected waters.

Pro Tips When Picking a Starter Boat

There is an immense range of boat types that you can consider. As previously stated, there’s no perfect boat for every situation. Even once you have the “perfect boat,” you might then decide you want to change where you cruise or how long you stay. Doing so might mean that your perfect boat isn’t so perfect.

Your first boat should be able to do what you want. Cruise Chesapeake Bay? Travel the ICW from New York to the Florida Keys? Spend winters aboard on the Gulf Coast? Liveaboard year-round on San Francisco Bay? Complete America’s Great Loop ?

Related: Best Boat for the Great Loop

In addition to meeting your goals, it also needs to teach you about boating. It’s a learning platform more than anything else. And there’s already so much to learn about boating that starting with the simplest boat is best.

There’s also nothing wrong with starting with small cuddy cabin sail or powerboats, a pontoon boat, or ski boats as a beginner boater. Something like this can introduce you to the boating world and help get your feet wet. It just depends if this is also a boat that you will enjoy owning, even if only temporarily.

What Makes the Best Beginner Boat?

So, why did these boats make it on the list and others didn’t? What exactly makes a good first boat? It boils down to these four factors when picking your first boat.

During the first year of owning any boat, you will experience a steep learning curve. If it’s your first boat, the curve is all the steeper. Boating can be challenging, and diving into traveling by boat or living aboard is doubly so.

Simplicity is often discussed as it relates to cost. Sure, you’d like a boat with a generator and air conditioning, but those boats cost more than the boat that doesn’t have it. But those systems add complexity and difficulty to your boating experience more than the cost alone. Every piece of equipment you add to your boat is another thing to learn and another thing that needs maintenance. So keep this in mind when looking at boats with complex propulsion systems and advanced electrical systems.

Of course, other factors will weigh you down as you pick your boat. For one thing, a budget will limit you.

As a general rule of thumb, spending your entire budget on purchasing the vessel is a bad idea. You’ll need a little left over for upgrades, unplanned repairs, and maintenance. Boat ownership is nearly always more expensive than we imagine. A good rule of thumb is to take your budget, spend half on the boat, and save half for future expenses.

The boat length you choose affects nearly every aspect of your boating. If you buy too small a boat, you’ll feel cramped and won’t enjoy the experience. If you buy too big a boat, you’ll be intimidated to drive it and feel overwhelmed. The length of the boat is also tied to its complexity. The bigger the boat, the harder it is to learn how to operate and maintain it.

If you can get by with a starter boat small enough that it can be stored out of the water, you’ll save a ton of money on maintenance, dockage fees, and off season storage. Trailerable boats are great if you have a tow vehicle and room to store them. Even if you don’t, in-out storage facilities make ownership much easier.

Finally, none of these choices are yours to make alone–your insurance agent will have some say. There once was a time when anyone could buy pretty much any boat and sail away. Some will tell you it’s still like that, that you just need to forgo insurance.

But neither of those are realistic choices today. First, you’ll need insurance to visit many marinas and boatyards. But even if you don’t plan on using those facilities, the risk of damaging a multi-million-dollar yacht when you drag anchor in a storm is very real. The tragic possibilities are endless at sea, and it’s simply irresponsible to travel by boat without insurance in this day and age.

So before getting too serious about boat shopping, it’s a good idea to speak with an insurance agent familiar with your type of vessel. They may require you to get experience with a smaller boat first. Or they might be okay with you getting trained by a professional captain for a few weeks before going it alone.

When selecting a boat, beginners should consider:

• Usage: Determine the primary activity (fishing, sailing, cruising) to find a boat that best suits your interests.
• Size: Start with a manageable size that’s easy to control and maintain.
• Budget: Consider not only the purchase price but also ongoing costs like maintenance, storage, and fuel.
• Waterways: Choose a boat suitable for the water bodies you plan to navigate, whether inland lakes, rivers, or coastal waters.

Starting with a boat that matches your skill level and intended use can make the learning process more enjoyable and ensure a safer boating experience.

In years of cruising, we have noticed one repeating pattern. Most people who set sail give up boating after a year or so. For many, it’s simply that the lifestyle wasn’t what they thought it would be. For some, that’s because they bought the wrong boat.

Picking a good starter boat is an enormous topic. Before you set out on your dream at sea, consider why you’re buying a boat and what your mission is. Then talk to folks, work with a good buyer’s broker, and do as much research as possible.

To learn more about other boats before starting, check out:

• Catamaran vs Pontoon
• Yacht vs Sailboat

What is the easiest type of boat to drive?

Nearly every type of vessel takes training and practice to learn how to drive. Boats are deceivingly easy to drive in open water, away from obstacles. But in tight spaces, like in marinas and around docks, boats have quirks that take experience to pick up on.

The question isn’t which is easiest since none are difficult, but many are tricky. The best rule of thumb is to get training from a professional instructor before you set out. Most boats are easy enough that someone can show you everything you need to know in a few hours.

What size boat should I start with?

When you first start boating, you’ll have to find a balance between the smallest and simplest boat you can afford that is sufficient to do with it what you want to do. Keeping it small and simple makes learning easier, which will go a long way in ensuring that you enjoy your boating experiences. The only limits you may find on the size of the boat will come from your insurance company. They may require you to get training from a captain if you purchase a larger boat without much boating experience.

How do I pick my first boat?

Your first boat should represent a balance between simplicity and ease of use but large enough to do what you want to do with it. Boating is complicated, so the best course of action is to take a hands-on training class like those from ASA (American Sailing Association) or the US Power Squadron. Then, you’ll know what boating is like and what you want to get into.

If you’re considering getting a boat longer than 25 feet, start your boat search by looking for insurance first. Shop around because some companies will place limits on the length or age of the boat you might be able to choose.

What is the simplest boat?

Generally, the smaller the boat is, the simpler the boat. Larger boats have more complex systems, bigger engines, and more stuff, making them complicated. The simplest boat is a johnboat, a canoe, or an open daysailer with no electrical system, toilet, or cabin. Outboard-powered boats are simpler than inboard-powered boats. Every option you add to your boat wishlist adds complexity and moves away from the “simple” end of the spectrum.

Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay.

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The 5 Best Sailboats For Beginners

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 27, 2023

Sailing is a fun activity for people of all experience levels. In fact, learning to sail a basic boat is relatively easy—in the right environment, you can start cruising with minimal experience.

However, the idea of a beginner commanding a 55-foot ketch in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean is a bit ridiculous. Even though virtually everyone can sail, beginners should learn the basics in a controlled environment—and on the correct boat.

Boat size doesn’t necessarily affect its beginner-friendliness, because sailors need to take into account factors such as rig simplicity and handling characteristics. 

Many beginners make the mistake of picking the wrong boat to begin with, which can lead to frustration and turn them off of sailing forever.

To mitigate these issues, this article will cover the best sailboats for beginners —so you can get on the water and start sailing safely and comfortably.

Table of contents

‍ Best Rigs for Beginners 

There are many types of sailboat rigging , and some are more beginner-friendly than others. Unfortunately, some of the most aesthetically pleasing rigs are also the most complicated. 

Eventually, sailors can acquire enough skill to master complex rigs, but it’s best to start simple. 

Arguably, one of the simplest sailing rigs is the Lateen Rig. This rig consists of a mast, boom, and spar, along with a single halyard and mainsheet. With only two ropes in its simplest configuration, the Lateen Rig makes an excellent starter sailboat, and it will be featured on this list. 

For larger boats, the Bermuda Sloop rig is an excellent choice. This rig is quite common and includes a jib for a larger sail plan.

For those who desire a slightly more robust (but single sail) layout, the gaff-rigged catboat is also an excellent choice. This versatile craft (and rig) has a large and relatively simple single sail, which is easier to handle than multiple sails.

Top Five Sailboats for Beginners 

Now, we’ll go over the top five sailboats for beginners . These boats will descend in order from smallest to largest, but not by the level of experience needed.  

Remember, just because you’re new to sailing doesn’t mean you have to settle for a boat that’s too small. Beginners can handle larger boats with some training, and some are easier to handle than their smaller counterparts.  ‍

The following boats were chosen because of their handling characteristics, low cost-of-ownership, and simplicity, as all of these factors are important for choosing the best beginner sailboat.

5) Sailing Dinghy

The sailing dinghy is the quintessential starter sailboat. These tiny, lightweight, popular, and highly affordable little craft is easy to operate and relatively difficult to capsize. The popular Optimist Sailing Dinghy, while designed for children up to the age of about 15, can be used (sometimes hilariously) by adults as well. An Optimist-style dingy is a great option for beginners over the age of 15, as boats of this style can be found in a variety of sizes. The sailing dinghy is a very popular youth racing sailboat, especially in the United States and the United Kingdom. While it’s not particularly fast, this little boat has wonderful handling characteristics and is relatively difficult to capsize. This open-cockpit boat uses a centerboard and detachable tiller and can be beached or carried atop a car without much hassle. The mast is removable, and all parts are easily stowed. Overall, the Optimist and its copycats are a remarkable little craft, equally useful as a tender for a larger boat or a standalone beginner sailboat.

Dinghy rigs vary between builders, but many use the simple Spirit Rig. The rig consists of a single sail and mainsheet, along with one mast, boom, and spar. The leech is stiffened by battens, and ties along the luff secure it all to the mast. Hoisting and securing the rig is easy, and lines are secured to the boat by a cleat. This simple rig has plenty of sail area for most places, and sailors can secure the mainsheet to a block or simply hold it in their hands.

The price of sailing dinghies can vary widely depending on multiple factors. Professionally-made sailing dinghies start around $3,500 new, and plywood kits are available for around $1,000 to $2,000. Used dinghies (including Optimist sailing dinghies) can be found on Craigslist for as low as a few hundred dollars. 

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

The Sunfish is a brilliant little sailboat, and a very fast boat indeed. This little racing dinghy, while only 13 feet in length, can be an enormous amount of fun for beginners and experienced sailors alike. The best way to describe the handling of a Sunfish is, ‘tender,’ though it’s not difficult to master this little boat. For its size, the Sunfish has a relatively large sail area and a very shallow draft. This boat has a small cockpit and can be controlled easily by a single person. The large sail plan of the Lateen-Rigged Sunfish makes for excellent performance in light winds and amazing speed on windy days. The Sunfish is a lightweight fiberglass boat with a simple rig and is a great step-up from a sailing dinghy. It’s possible to learn how to sail on this boat, but every sailor who’s spent time on a Sunfish will probably recommend bringing a towel. The boat is relatively easy to capsize for beginners and it heels aggressively, but these characteristics can teach sailors some important lessons. The heeling characteristics of the Sunfish can help beginners get accustomed to the feeling and help them understand the limits of a sailboat and how to avoid capsizing.

The Sunfish features a Lateen Rig, which has some shared characteristics with the simple Spirit Rig. The Lateen Rig has a single spar, mast, and boom, and is easy to set up and dismantle. The mast is removable as well, making stowing and transportation relatively easy. The large sail plan of the Sunfish makes it ideal for lakes and other areas where the wind is sporadic or very low, and the boat can be safely handled in many conditions. The boat is great for racing and learning and is also available in a Bermuda rig. The Sunfish is recognizable by the distinctive fish logo in the top corner of the sail, and the classic rainbow sails striping.

The Sunfish is still commercially manufactured. You can purchase one new from the factory for around $5,000 today, and options are available to make the boat your own. While the boat is designed to be sailed by a single person, two adults can purchase this boat and use it together comfortably. Used Sunfish prices vary, but a fully-outfitted boat in good condition can cost upwards of $1,000. They hold their value well, and they’re a great choice for beginners. 

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

The Laser is considered by many to be the Sunfish’s main competitor. The two boats are the same length (13 feet 9 inches) and share many of the same handling characteristics. However, the boats do have some notable differences. Many people consider the Laser to be a step-up from the Sunfish in difficulty, as the boat handles much more like a racer. The Laser has been used in the Olympics for racing. The laser is small and simple enough for beginners but requires skill to operate. Beginners can learn a lot from sailing a Laser and have an enormous amount of fun in the process. This fast little boat is simple and easy to set up but handles like a racecar.  If you’re a beginner on a laser, you’ll probably capsize at some point—which isn’t always a problem if you’re in a controlled environment, as the boat can be righted easily.

The laser is a Cat Rigged boat. This means it has only one mainsail and no headsails. The simple rig has a mast and a boom and is very easy to set up. The sail area of the laser is relatively large and designed for speed in high winds. The rig combined with the overall design of the sailboat makes it handle tenderly, which may be off-putting to some beginners. Regardless, it’s still a blast to sail for beginners with some experience.

New Laser sailboats start around $6,000 which is slightly more than the Sunfish. This simple centerboard cruiser is constructed as a race boat, which can explain some of the price increase. Used Laser sailboats are available on the market, though usually not as common as the Sunfish. Used Laser prices vary widely.

2) Gaff-Rigged Catboat

The gaff-rigged catboat isn’t a brand of boat—it’s a style of a sailboat that was once a popular workboat on the New England coast. This boat, which has only one mainsail and no headsails, is available in a wide range of designs. Catboats are famous for their handling and power and make a great sailboat for beginners. These vessels are available with centerboards, keels, cabins, and in open designs. Most catboats range from 15 to 19-feet long and can be built from wood or fiberglass. Catboats are easy to handle, and one who learns on a small catboat can easily transition to a larger one. Besides being one of the most easily recognizable sailboats, catboats are also some of the most versatile. A catboat can be just as suitable for lake cruising as it is for coastal waters.

The most common type of catboat rig is the Gaff Rig. This classic and robust rig is more complex than the simple Spirit and Lateen rig, but it’s more suitable for a ‘proper ship.’ The Gaff Rig can provide similar power as an equivalent Bermuda Rig, with much more elegance and a shorter mast. Many sailors prefer the classic Gaff Rig for its handling characteristics and durability.

It’s impossible to specify the price of catboats because they vary so much in design and size. New catboats (between 15 and 25-feet) can be purchased for less than $20,000, and used boats are numerous and varied. Cabin catboats tend to cost more, especially new—some run for more than $50,000 with a high level of amenities, including a head and galley. Numerous catboat plans are available online, and sailors report constructing them (usually of plywood) for just a few thousand dollars.

1) West Wight Potter 19

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

The West Wight Potter 19 is a fiberglass sailboat designed for safety, easy handling, and beginner-friendliness. This 19-foot trailer-sailor features a cabin with a vee-berth, a simple rig, and a retractable keel. The West Wight Potter 19 could potentially be the best cabin sailboat for beginners, and certainly one of the safest—the West Wight Potter 19, according to the manufacturer, is quite literally unsinkable. The hull is filled with buoyant materials, allowing the boat to be flooded and remain afloat. However, unsinkability isn’t the only characteristic of this boat that makes it ideal for beginners. The rig is simple and easy to set up, and the handling characteristics are excellent. The boat is not prone to aggressive heeling and handles confidently in a variety of conditions. While one generally wouldn’t consider it to be a blue-water cruiser, it’s still extremely capable—one sailor even sailed this vessel from California to Hawaii , which is over 2,000 nautical miles. The theoretical hull speed of this boat is around 5.4 knots, but it actually has a tendency to plane and achieve higher speeds. It’s a flat-bottomed cruiser, making it easy to beach and transport with its retractable keel and removable rudder. The West Wight Potter 19 is a great introduction to large sailboats and carries amenities normally reserved for boats at least 1/3 larger.

The West Wight Potter 19 is a Bermuda-Rigged sloop. The sail plan is sufficiently large to propel the boat in a variety of conditions, but not so large that it overpowers the boat. Sailors can single-hand the boat with ease, and set up and takedown are easy and require no special tools. The boat handles well in a variety of conditions and is well-known for its superior stability. The rig comes apart easily and can be stowed and trailered by one person.

The West Wight Potter 19 has been produced and sold commercially since the 1970s, and the used market has plenty of boats available, generally starting around $5,000. New West Wight Potter 19 sailboats are remarkably affordable compared to other boats with comparable characteristics. The West Wight Potter 19 is manufactured by International Marine in California. New sailboats start at just shy of $25,000. Owners can add an enormous range of extra features to their boats, including a hull-strengthening ‘blue water’ package, a stove, a head, electrical power, spare parts, and much more. The boats are highly customizable and can be outfitted for weekender sailing or long-term liveaboard cruising.

How to Pick a Sailboat

Picking a sailboat for beginners doesn’t have to be difficult.  Before deciding on a boat, consider your experience level and location.

If you only have access to rough ocean, it may not be the best idea to get an open dinghy.

If you live near a lake, a Sunfish could be a great way to start.

Also, consider your budget. If you’re looking for a $50 sailboat, you can probably find one, but it won’t be ideal.

If you have just a few thousand dollars to spend, you can set yourself up nicely with a little research .

Also, consider what you want to do with the sailboat. Recreation, fishing , cruising , and exploration are options, and require different kinds of boats.

Whichever you end up choosing, make sure you try it out and can sail it comfortably.

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Choosing the Best Beginner Sailboat

9th jun 2023 by samantha wilson.

Sailing dates back thousands of years and is still one of the best-loved pastimes in the United States and across the world. Learning to sail brings many benefits, from gaining a whole new skillset, to getting out into the fresh air, improving your fitness, meeting like-minded people, and spending quality time with your family. If you’re considering learning to sail, start by checking out our guide on Getting into Sailing . 

We all need to start somewhere and getting into sailing on the wrong type of boat for your experience level can leave you feeling frustrated. While the temptation to buy something filled with gadgets and plenty of space is there, remember that your love for sailing will come from feeling in control and at one with the ocean as you learn its every move. Simplicity is the key to that.

In this post we are focusing on the frequently asked question: "What are the best sailboats for beginners?" In short, all you really need is a hull, mast, rudder, and sail and you can be soaring along the coast or lake soaking up the sense of freedom that sailing brings. But of course buying a boat is never quite that simple, and with so much choice out there we have narrowed down the options.

Don’t forget, this doesn’t have to be your forever boat. As your skills improve and your horizons widen, you can upgrade to larger or more complex sailboats, but for this moment, consider the here and now and what boat will suit it. 

A comfortable daysailer, the Marlow Hunter 18. Photo credit: Marlow Hunter

What Makes a Sailboat Good for Beginners?

As a general rule, the smaller the boat, the easier it will be to handle, although there are exceptions. The simplicity of the boat's sails and sail controls will also affect its beginner-friendliness. To start, we recommend choosing a boat that's easy to rig, lightweight, transportable, and simple to sail. From sailing dinghies to daysailers, weekender sailboats and trailerable boats, beginner boats are nifty and a lot of fun. 

While safety and ease of handling are the main considerations for most beginners, there are several other factors that make a good beginner’s sailboat;

• An easily manageable size : A larger sailboat might feel more stable and allow you to venture farther or accommodate more people on board, but a smaller sailboat will certainly be easier to handle. Larger sailing yachts will need more complex rigs too, and as a beginner you want to be keeping everything as easy as you can while you get to grips with the act of sailing. Start off small and work your way up to bigger boats as your experience and confidence grows. 
• A stable and comfortable ride over beauty : While you gain experience sailing, having a stable and safe sailboat under you will give you confidence. There will be bumps and scrapes and wrong maneuvers, and having a boat that can withstand these without expensive repairs will make them less stressful when they inevitably happen. Both dinghies and small keelboats make good starter boats; dinghies tend to be light and responsive, teaching lessons by feel as well as by eye; keelboats are more stable and can easily carry more and larger adults.  
• A tiller for steering instead of a wheel: Having a tiller to steer with takes sailing back to the basics and allows you to get a better feel for the movement of the boat as you learn. The tiller is connected directly to the rudder, providing more feel for the flow of water past the boat. Unlike a steering wheel, you have to learn to move the tiller in the opposite direction that you want to turn, but you will quickly develop a more intuitive sense of the boat’s changes in speed and direction.
• An easy rig and simple sails: Again, simpler is always better for your first boat, and that goes for the rig and sails too. Sailing has a steep learning curve, so if you'll be sailing alone, we recommend that you choose a boat with a single mastand only one sail that you can set up by yourself quickly. You’ll have more on-the-water time and less setup and takedown time. If you’re storing your boat via trailer, be sure the mast is light enough to hoist into place by yourself. When it comes to the rigging, a halyard to hoist the mainsail and a sheet to control it are all you need. It’s possible to learn on a sloop-rigged with two sails, but it will be easier in that case if there are two of you learning together.
• Widely available model: By choosing a popular sailboat with lots on the used market you’ll find it easier to buy spares and parts as well as online resources to help you maintain it. 
• Don’t spend too much: This is your first sailboat, and if you catch the sailing bug, it’ll most likely not be your last. As your skills improve you’ll want to get bigger models that will allow you to cruise farther and do more. The used boat market is huge, with online boat selling marketplaces such as Rightboat offering thousands of listings, so there are plenty of inexpensive, good quality small sailboats to be found. 

The Laser, a sporty dinghy that can also be raced

20 of the Best Beginner Sailboat Brands

There are quite literally hundreds of brands and models of new and used small sailboats on the market and whittling it down to 20 of the best isn’t easy. But there are some sailboats which have stood the test of time and which remain today some of the best loved beginner sailboats out there. In no particular order, these are some of our favorites:

• Wayfarer sailboats
• Catalina sailboats
• Dart sailboats  
• Sprint sailboats  
• West Wight Potter sailboats
• Hobie sailboats
• Marlow-Hunter sailboats
• Skipper Craft sailboats
• Sabre sailboats
• Cape Dory sailboats
• Dufour sailboats
• Hurley sailboats
• MacGregor sailboats
• Beneteau sailboats
• Seaclipper sailboats
• Island Packet sailboats
• Jeanneau sailboats

The Best Beginner Sailboat Types

There are so many types of sailboats on the market that it’s hard to narrow down the best ones for a beginner. From dinghies to multihulls you have plenty of choice:

• Sailing Dinghies : These small, lightweight sailboats are a good choice for a very first sailboat, their simplicity and ease of handling allowing beginners to get to grips with the skills they would need to advance to a more complex rig system. Accommodating one or two people with a single sail and single mast, these inexpensive boats offer the simplest back-to-basics sailing experience there is, and they can be easily taken apart for cheap storage or trailering. Their only downside is their easy ability to capsize but because of their weight they can be righted easily. The Optimist is the best known choice for children under 15 years of age, these bath-tub sized boats offering a lot of fun as well as safety and a great learning experience. For adults wanting to learn to sail, there are many similar boats on the market. The Pico, Sabot, Harteley 10 and RS Quba are commonly seen zipping across the waves near sailing clubs, while the Laser Bahia, Laser Vago, Topper Xenon and Topper Topaz are popular models for those looking for slightly bigger dinghies.

The International Optimist Dinghy, a youth learn-to-sail and racing boat

• Small Catamarans : Multi-hulls are renowned for their stability and therefore make excellent first sailboats. But size is a big factor and ‘small’ is the keyword here. Catamarans are fast and easy to maneuver, and the trampoline between the hulls makes for a fun sailing experience. The risk of capsizing with a catamaran is markedly lower than a monohull, but they’re also harder to upright if, in the unlikely event, they do go over. If there are cons to a catamaran it’s that they tend to cost more than monohulls and a marina berth will certainly cost more. 
• Small Sloops : While slightly more advanced than a dinghy, a small sloop is a great sailboat to learn with and to develop your skills on. It will still have one mast but can have up to three sails (usually one or two) which is good for perfecting your sailing techniques. 
• Trailerable Sailboats : Ok, so this is necessarily a type of sailboat, but it’s certainly a major consideration when buying your first one. Being able to trailer your sailboat allows you to sail in different locations and conditions, therefore improving your skills. Of course the flip side is that you have to spend time setting it up each time you want go out on the water as opposed to have a ready rigged boat in a marina. 

The Best Small Sailboats for Beginners

There are many models to choose from, with brand-new designs being launched each year alongside ever-popular models which have stood the test of time. Here we take a look at some best-loved beginner sailboats on the market. 

The Best Beginner Sailboat with a Cabin: Catalina 16.5 and 22

Catalina is one of the best-known manufacturers of weekend sailboats and their range is extensive. The mid-range 16.5 and slightly larger Catalina 22 models both offer a simple set-up, fiberglass hull and deck, and a retractable keel for easy trailering. The 22 model offers a cabin which can sleep four, making it a cozy family boat for overnight trips. A large cockpit and swim ladder are added luxuries, but the real benefits for beginners is the simple fractional rig with a mainsail and a roller-furling jib.

A sloop-rigged daysailer, the Catalina 16.5.   Photo credit: Catalina Yachts

The Best Beginner Cruising Sailboat: Hunter 15 and 22

These comfortable daysailer or weekend sailboats by popular manufacturer Hunter offer plenty of space with their large, open-transom cockpit, easy handling and fiberglass hulls. Whether you opt for the Hunter 15, 18 or the larger 22 with its twin bunks, they’re a great choice for teaching a child to sail, or for adult beginners to gain their confidence. But don’t be fooled into thinking it can’t get a real move on! A molded, anti-skid fiberglass and foam flotation hull means they have added safety and can easily be manned by one person. 

The Best Beginner Sailboat for Coastal Sailing: Cape Dory 28

This is the largest beginner sailboat on our list, but if you’re planning long coastal cruises then you wouldn’t want to be doing so with anything much smaller. While it will take a bit more experience, the Cape Dory 28 is a solidly built and reliable vessel perfect for beginners. It has a full keel for stability in big seas, and it handles exceptionally well. Down below you’ve got the benefit of a small cabin, galley and head, and space to eat both inside and out. Because of their popularity and the sheer number of them built you can pick up one for a good price on the used market. 

The Best Beach Sailboats for Beginners: Hobie Wave and Hobie 16

Hobie catamarans have been sailing off beaches all over the world for many years. The trailerable, sporty  Hobie 16 sailboat is celebrating 50 years in manufacture—some 100,000 have been built during this time, a true testament to their popularity. As a multihull with a fiberglass and foam hull and a kick-up rudder board, the Hobie 16 can be sailed right up to the beach, and its trampoline allows for plenty of space to move around while learning new skills. Its newer little sister, the Hobie Wave, is even more rugged and simpler for beginners. Built with a rotomolded hull that's extremely durable, the Wave is just 13 feet long, has one sail, and is easily managed by one or two people. 

The most popular beach catamaran ever, the Hobie 16. Photo credit: Hobie

The Best Liveaboard Sailboats for Beginners: West Wight Potter P 19

While liveaboard boats tend to be slightly larger than most beginner boats, if you want something relatively simple but with enough space for short-term living/cruising, the West Wight Potter P19 is a great option. For a weekend sailboat it packs a lot into a compact space, with berths for four people as well as a galley equipped with cooler, sink and cooker. Its retractable keel and flat-bottomed hull means you can explore virtually anywhere without even getting your feet wet, and it’s a great choice for trailering. For beginners, the West Wight Potter P19 is ideal thanks to its simple rig, good handling characteristics, easy handling and safety features—foam fore and aft means even if it is flooded the boat is unsinkable. 

Common Challenges for Sailboat Beginners

It’s inevitable that things won’t always be smooth sailing when you’re starting out, but that’s also part of the fun of learning a new skill. Don’t forget to ask for help and advice along the way from those who have been sailing for a while, be kind to yourself when you don’t get things right, and enjoy the process and sense of achievement as you improve. Some of main hurdles to overcome include:

• Understanding the laws and regulations: It can seem like a complicated minefield in the beginning understanding what the boating laws are and which licenses and paperwork you need in order to sail in different parts of the U.S. and beyond. As well as taking sailing courses, there are lots of official online resources these days to give you a state-by-state overview. A good starting point are our guides on what qualifications you need as a first time boater , and which licenses you need to drive or sail a boat . 
• Learning boating jargon: It can often sound like learning a whole new language and it’s easy to feel confused or frustrated by all the terminology there is to learn in boating. But it’s fun too, and soon you’ll be part of the club and using words that land-lubbers don’t understand. Taking a sailing course can help to speed up this learning process. 
• Getting comfortable being on a sailboat: This might sound strange, but getting your sea legs is a big part of learning to sail and one that can take some people longer than others. While seasickness can rear its head at times, for most it's learning to get around on a moving vessel with ease and safety that takes a while to master. 
• Tying knots: This can either be one of the most fun new things to learn or one of the most frustrating, but either way knots are a vital part of sailing for safety reasons. Start off easily with a few simple, common knots and just keep practicing. You’ll get the hang of it and be able to do them in your sleep in no time. 
• Knowing the minimum amount of information to be safe and competent . In 2017 the US Coast Guard developed the American National Standards for Sailing Training (EDU-3). They then acknowledged sailing education bodies that teach to this standard. To date, NauticEd is the only education body meeting the standard. The course that meets the standard for small keelboats (up to 25 feet) is the NauticEd Skipper Small Keelboat Course. For an even more basic getting started course, NauticEd developed a 3-hour online course that covers the basics called Introduction to Sailing.

Related articles:

What are the Different Types of Sailboats?

Small Sailboat Types

This article was most recently updated in June 2023 by John Burnham

Written By: Samantha Wilson

Samantha Wilson has spent her entire life on and around boats, from tiny sailing dinghies all the way up to superyachts. She writes for many boating and yachting publications, top charter agencies, and some of the largest travel businesses in the industry, combining her knowledge and passion of boating, travel and writing to create topical, useful and engaging content.

More from: Samantha Wilson

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Best Yachts – Top 15 Picks for 2024

Carver 52 Command Bridge

Hatteras M75 Panacera

Sabre 58 Salon Express

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a yacht? Probably those huge luxury cruisers reserved for the high society folks, right? Well, that’s true, but those are a special group of ships referred to as luxury yachts.

The questions you need to be asking are – What is a yacht? At what point is a yacht regarded as a ship? And, what exactly makes a yacht a yacht? Here’s a little boating lesson for you.

A yacht is any fast cruising watercraft used for pleasure or sport. Yachts can be classified into cruisers, superyachts, and mega yachts. The difference between them all boils down to their respective sizes.

Luxury vessels that are less than 12 meters long fall in the class of cabin cruiser yachts – or simply, cruisers. Those that measure more than 24 meters are classified as superyachts. Anything that’s 50+ meters long is a mega yacht. Anything larger than a mega yacht is generally referred to as a ship and generally describes a working vessel as opposed to something recreational.

So, as you can see, you don’t necessarily have to be swimming in a ton of money to become a yacht owner. The only difference will be in the size of the craft you get. Clear enough?

Without further ado, here are the 15 best yachts, as well as a few useful tips on how to choose the best one.

Top on our list of best yachts is the Carver 52 Command Bridge. Its unique design, spacious salon, expansive foredeck seating area, and well-thought-out amenities make this one the best yachts bar-none.

It comes with a master head, a spacious stall shower, and a full-beam master stateroom that even has its own private entrance. It doesn’t get any better than that.

 Carver  →

● Designed for long-range cruising ● Ample living space ● Comes with loads of convenience amenities

● Not ideal for use in icy waters

The Hatteras M75 Panacera yacht is the perfect embodiment of superior craftsmanship and timeless elegance. One look at it, and you can tell that it was built with impeccable attention to detail.

Everything from the galley layout and the open-concept deckhouse salon to the 360-degree panoramic windows and state-of-the-art amenities adds a completely new dimension to luxury yachting.

 Hatteras  →

● Ample space ● Exquisite interiors and exteriors ● Fully-customizable

● High maintenance

Yachts don’t exactly come cheap. So, the term “budget” yacht might be a bit of a stretch when referring to the price. Nonetheless, if you’re shopping for a watercraft that delivers excellent value for money, the Sabre 58 Salon Express is a great option to consider.

It has an open yacht design that seamlessly merges the interior with the exterior and has large windows that flood the interior spaces with lots of natural light. The Sabre also has three en-suite cabins, abundant storage, and several other great features that make it stand out from other boats in its class.

 Sabre Yachts  →

● Great value for money ● Spacious interior ● Ample storage

● Not ideal for use in the high seas

Tiara Yachts 53 Coupe

The Tiara Yachts 53 Coupe is the perfect family watercraft. It is designed for indoor and outdoor living. The bridge deck space and salon offer breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the ocean. It also has comfortable living quarters below deck that are guaranteed to give the entire family an exceptional cruising experience.

 Tiara  →

● Great for making memories ● Comfortable living quarters ● Offers panoramic views all round

● High maintenance costs

The 60 Cantius from Cruiser was built for long-distance passages. It has spacious living quarters both above and below deck, as well as lots of comfort and convenience amenities that allow you to spend extended periods out on the water.

You’ll particularly enjoy the retractable sunroof that allows you to bask in the sun while enjoying breathtaking panoramic ocean views as you cruise along.

 Cruisers Yachts  →

● Ideal for long-distance passages ● Beautiful, elegant design ● Spacious living areas above and below deck

● Pricier than other boats in its class

93 Motor Yacht

If you’re looking for a watercraft that can go the distance, it doesn’t get any better than the 93 Motor Yacht from Viking Yachts. First impressions: It is gorgeous.

Its beauty isn’t skin-deep either. The 93MY was built to navigate the rough, choppy waters of the high seas, making it the perfect vessel for anyone who wants to go on an ocean-crossing adventure of a lifetime.

 Viking Yachts  →

● Stunning exterior and interior design ● Built to navigate rough water conditions ● It is pretty massive

● Requires a small crew to operate it

Jeanneau NC 37

The Jeanneau NC 37 is an excellent beginner boat. Its fluid layout and ergonomic design make movement in this yacht a breeze. It comes with large panoramic windows with an open sunroof that bathe the living space in lots of natural light.

There’s an owner’s cabin, as well as a guest cabin that both offer ample standing headroom. Its well-proportioned interior alongside the multitude of comfort and convenience amenities it comes with makes it one of the best beginner yachts in the market today.

 Jeanneau  →

● Ample living space and storage ● Great value for money ● Open ergonomic layout

● Not ideal for ocean crossing

Regal 36 XO

If you’re looking for a yacht that combines both comfort and functionality, the Regal 36 XO delivers on both fronts. This beauty is powered by two outboard engines and offers multi-bow seating that also doubles up as casting decks.

It has a spacious cabin, open-air salon, seamless galley that integrates the aft seating area with the roomy saloon, and a windshield walk-through that provides easy access to the bow.

 Regal  →

● Versatile ● Spacious interiors and exteriors ● Fully-customizable

Back Cove 390

If you thought yachts were reserved for ocean-use only, that couldn’t be further from the truth. There are several models specially designed for lakes. The Back Cove 390 yacht is the perfect example.

Its smaller size makes it ideal for lake cruising. It has a fully-enclosed helm, as well as an owner and guest cabin below-deck, making it perfect for overnight stay.

 Back Cove Yachts  →

● Perfect size for lakes ● Ideal for entertaining ● Delivers optimal handling and maneuverability

● May not be ideal for a long extended stay

Formula 45 Yacht

The Formula 45 Yacht is the perfect liveaboard watercraft. It has all the comfort and convenience amenities you would expect to find in any standard land-based home. It is spacious with a well-thought-out practical layout that makes movement on the yacht easy. It has enough room to comfortably accommodate a small family of four.

 Formula  →

● Best yacht for the money ● Spacious interior ● Comes with lots of convenience amenities

Ocean Alexander 36L

If you’re thinking of venturing out into the rough seas, you’re going to need a yacht that can hold its own in the sloppiest of weather conditions. The Ocean Alexander 36L is built to do just that.

Beyond its stunning exterior and interiors, this yacht’s overall rugged construction is focused on giving passengers the smoothest ride possible regardless of the water conditions outside. Its deep V-hull design and its 324,500 lbs. displacement capacity are largely responsible for the exceptional stability it displays when cruising through the high seas.

 Ocean Alexander  →

● Exceptionally stable ● Packed with loads of comfort and convenience amenities ● Expansive interior and exterior

● Needs a crew to run it

Westport 112 Motor Yacht

As far as luxury yachts go, the Westport 112 Motor Yacht is in a class of its own. This 111 ft. 8 in. long watercraft is built to deliver extraordinary performance inside and out.

It has four en-suite staterooms that sleep eight individuals and can accommodate up to five crew members, including the captain. The interior oozes luxury, sophistication, and a timeless elegance that’s hard to come by these days.

 Westport Yachts  →

● Spacious indoor and outdoor living areas ● Exquisite interiors ● Suitable for cruising the high seas

● Expensive

Beneteau Oceanis 60

The Beneteau Oceanis 60 is by far the best sailing yacht we’ve come across. It is built on a hull that guarantees safety and unmatched performance at every turn.

This luxury sailing yacht has a unique deck plan that allows for single-handed maneuvering across the water. The glossy woodwork, cozy upholstery, and the spacious living quarters below-deck make it the perfect sailing yacht for your ocean getaway.

 Beneteau  →

● Exceptional fuel economy ● Spacious living areas ● Ideal for single-handed sailing

● May not be as fast as other non-sailboat yachts

Having a crew is great and all, but it’s also nice to have a yacht that you can operate on your own for that measure of added privacy when you need it. The Antares 9 is the perfect owner operator yacht.

It is modern, stylish, and compact, allowing you to run it on your own and discreetly slip away from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life anytime you need to.

● Elegant design ● Can be operated solo ● Comfortable and safe navigation

● Not ideal for the rough, choppy waters of the high seas

Prestige 690

Let’s get to what yachts are best known for – hosting memorable parties. The Prestige 690 has everything you need to keep the party going all day and all night.

Its open design layout and its expansive deck make it the perfect yacht for entertaining. The elegant, timeless design of its exterior, alongside the breathtaking finishing, are just a few of the 690’s attributes that add to its appeal.

 Prestige  →

● Massive open deck ● Comes with lots of comfort and convenience features ● Sleeps up to 10 people

How to Choose the Best Yachts – Buyer’s Guide

A yacht is a pretty big purchase. So, you need to know what to look for when choosing the right one for your needs. Here are a couple of pointers that might come in handy.

Type of Yacht

The type of yacht you buy depends in large part on your intended use for it. Most yachts tend to fall into one of three categories – For water sports like wakeboarding , fishing motor yachts, or the overnight cruising variety. Once you know what kind of recreational activities you plan on engaging in, that should help narrow down your choices.

Next, you need to consider what size of yacht you should get. Do you have a young family that you intend to expand in the coming years? Do you plan to use the vessel for day cruising, or do you intend to spend a couple of nights on board from time to time?

Will the yacht be just for you and your significant other, or do you plan to frequently entertain several guests on board? This will advise whether you should buy a cabin cruiser yacht, a superyacht, or a mega yacht.

In a perfect world, you would have all the money you need to buy any kind of watercraft you want. Sadly, that’s not the reality we live in. Keep in mind that yachts don’t exactly come cheap. So, even if you’re planning to purchase a small yacht, you’ll still need to spend quite a bit of cash to get it.

The best thing to do would be to set a budget and compare the different models on offer from different manufacturers . Aside from the boat’s purchase price, you also need to think about the costs associated with owning a yacht. These include insurance, repairs, maintenance, cleaning, and the vessel’s general servicing.

Figure out what kind of comfort and convenience features are a must-have for you. How many cabins should it have? Do you need it to have a summer grill up top? Or will the one in the mini kitchen below-deck suffice? Ensure that the yacht you get has all the amenities you need.

Last but not least, before you sign any purchase contract, ensure that you schedule a sea trial with the dealer. That way, you get a true feel for the boat before you buy it.

Look Before You Leap

If you’re in the market for a shiny new yacht, any of the 15 vessels we’ve detailed in this guide will make an excellent choice. Do your homework beforehand, and make sure your desired craft has all the features and amenities you seek.

Use the tips we’ve outlined in this guide to help you choose the best yachts from all the different options that are hot on the market right now. Happy yachting!

In the meantime, if you’re looking for the best aluminum fishing boat , we’ve got you covered. Check out our review for our top picks.

About Chris

Outdoors, I’m in my element, especially in the water. I know the importance of being geared up for anything. I do the deep digital dive, researching gear, boats and knowhow and love keeping my readership at the helm of their passions.

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The best small cruising yachts in 2023

• Theo Stocker
• September 29, 2023

Despite bigger yachts dominating the new boat scene in recent decades, there are still any number of builders making new smaller cruisers. Here's our pick of the best small cruising yachts in 2023

We have seen a surprisingly large number of builders going against the grain to bring small cruising yachts to market in the last year or so, ranging from trailer0-sailers to smaller traditionally-styled options. Here, we’ve rounded up 4 of the best small cruising yachts launched in the last year.

Typically this size of yacht appeals to those who are looking for a day sailer or weekender and will often offer reduced draught in able to allow you to go creek crawling or nose your way into otherwise hard to get to anchorages.

The best small cruising yachts 2023

Once you’ve seen one, Bente yachts are unmistakable. We revisited the brand’s first boat, the Bente 24 , a couple of issues ago, which has been around for 10 years or so. The brand then launched the striking Bente 39 which was immensely innovative, but the company ran into financial difficulties. Now under new owners and a more stable footing, a third model has been launched, which I can’t wait to test sail. The Bente 28 is unlike any other 28-footer.

The hull is cutting edge with wide transom, double rudders and full bows providing a powerful hull form as well as volume below. Construction is polyester GRP foam sandwich, with the basic version being heavier hand lamination, and the more expensive Edition version being vacuum infused. While this is a boat designed to be fast, it’s a long way from a wild racing boat.

Displacement is a not outlandish 3.2 tonnes and draught is 1.6m (there’s an option for a 1.95m performance T-keel with lead bulb that’s 100kg lighter), so it fits well within the scope of a sensible cruising boat.

The Tide 25, built by MFH in north Germany – began its life as a Dehler SQ25, but the mould was sold off when that company hit hard times. Plumb bows and stern with a long hull chine, bevelled deck edge and twin rudders put her on trend, and maximise performance under sail and accommodation on board.

On deck, she has a large cockpit with benches forward and four decent lockers. Under the cockpit sole there’s access to what would be engine space for a diesel inboard, now housing batteries for the electric motors.

Opt for the sport version, and you’ll get beefed up deck hardware and a minimalist fit out, with the mainsheet traveller across the transom, while the comfort version has a smaller main with the mainsheet coming to a fixed point on the cockpit sole forward of the helm. The rig has aft-swept spreaders and no backstay.

The fact that the accommodation of the Pointer 30 is designed around a Nespresso machine, enshrined in glory, tells you a lot about this boat. It was conceived as a comfortable, fast and stylish weekend cruiser that you can take your friends down to for a coffee before a nice sail to somewhere for lunch. This is a boat that knows what it is about. Tea drinkers, don’t worry; there’s still a gas hob to boil a kettle.

The sail area isn’t vast, but this looks to be an easily driven hull. A below-deck furler setting a genoa that sheets to tracks on the coachroof is standard, with a self-tacker being optional.

The fixed bowsprit houses a bow roller, and a tack point for furling offwind sails – the gennaker takes her offwind sail area up to 100m2, set from an aluminium twin-spreader rig with adjustable backstay. She has a powerful kicker, but no traveller for the main, which is sheeted to a raised plinth in the cockpit sole.

Below deck the layout is simple, clean and quietly stylish. Headroom is restricted, dictated by the low freeboard and elegant lines.

To port, the heart of the boat is the ‘coffee bar’ on a shelf in the moulded hull liner, next to a small dinette-style table with two leather swivel armchairs. The forward of these chairs spins round to face a neat lift-top desk (though the drawer below isn’t large enough for a chart).

Swallow Yachts 32

Aimed at sailors who may have owned larger yachts before but want to downsize, Swallow Yachts owner Matt Newland explained that he ‘wanted to build a boat that was fun and easy to sail, simple to maintain and had timeless looks with as low an environmental impact as possible.’

Though not a true launch-and-sail trailer sailer, a four-by-four will still be able to tow the 32 on her own trailer, as boat and trailer come in at under 3.5 tonnes, and within the 2.9m overhang limit.

With a keel-down draught of 2.8m, a fine entry at the bow and broad aft sections, this boat promises to be a good performer. You can sail with the lifting keel in any position for shoal waters, but lift it all the way and you’ve got a draught of just 40cm for creek crawling and drying out.

Newland has tried to draw lines that are timeless rather than trendy while a retractable bowsprit, backstayless carbon rig and square-top mainsail ensure she is right up there in terms of her contemporary design and latest tech.

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13 Best Liveaboard Sailboats (under 30 & 50 ft)

Choosing a boat to live on is a big deal — something you definitely want to get right. There are plenty of options to pick from, which can make the choosing process a bit daunting. So to help you navigate those deep waters (no pun intended), here is an article summarizing the 13 best liveaboard sailboats under 30 and 50 feet.

So what are the 13 best liveaboard sailboats?

Catalina 30, pacific seacraft flicka 20, nonsuch ultra 30, aventura 34, island packet 35, peterson 44, prout snowgoose 37, gulfstar 44, beneteau oceanis 50.

Beautiful lineup, isn't it? Let me explain what makes these so special.

Picking the Right One Matters

Picking a liveaboard sailboat belongs among those kinds of decisions that require months, if not years of research and testing.

It is not like choosing a car - those are more or less the same, and although they vary widely in terms of comfort, feeling, and performance, rarely you would encounter one that wouldn't get you from point A to B reasonably.

The same goes for a house or an apartment. Regardless of if you get a 200 square foot condo or a 30,000 square feet mansion, it will most of the time provide a warm shelter with a shower and a kitchen and a bed, fulfilling its basic functions.

But this is only the case because there is extensive infrastructure in place helping cars and houses. A car can only get you from A to B thanks to roads. A house can only have a shower and a kitchen if it is connected to a grid.

But on a boat, you are on your own.

The sea doesn't adjust its waves for your comfort. If something breaks, there is usually not a repair shop nearby. You aren't always connected to water or electricity. And if you don't like what you see around yourself, it's not like you can just leave.

So a liveaboard boat needs to provide what a house does, what a vehicle does, and more, plus it needs to provide this regardless of if you are docked in a marina or in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. That is a lot to ask, especially if we are talking about boats around 30 or 50 feet.

Fortunately, every single boat on this list is an all-star that ticks all the right boxes. Let's see why.

I know, I hear you, it isn't exciting enough as it doesn't perform that well. Sure. But we are talking about a boat that is supposed to be a house too. So why is it on the list?

This boat has been in production since 1975, which means that it has been extraordinarily well-refined according to the suggestions of thousands of owners. And this manufacturer is known for listening to the sailors' feedback. It is a very popular model, so finding spare parts for it will always be easy. Its famous well thought through the salon, and cabin layout is generous and spacious, so Catalinas are comfortable boats to live on. Plus, the boat has quite a wide beam, great ballast/displacement ratio as well as low sail area/displacement ratio, making it a stiff boat under sail, which adds to stability and comfort.

Good condition MkIII Catalinas can be found for about $35,000, but given the volume of these on the market, you can find a usable one even for around $15,000.

This one is a hero. I'd be hesitant to call such a small boat a comfortable liveaboard if it wasn't for this model. For its size, the interior is very spacious. It is also made for comfort since it seems to be inspired by the aforementioned Catalina 30. In fact, after reading some reviews, I am confident in saying that you will not find a significantly more comfortable 27 footer out there.

It also has a talent very uncommon for liveaboard boats - you can put it on a trailer, which can make your life easier when it comes to certain trips. But most importantly, it is a beauty. Just look at it.

Pricing this boat is a tricky task. You can buy nearly new ones (2015) for around $140,000, but even for $50,000, you can stumble upon models from both the 80s and the 2000s. This means the condition is a big factor, and you gotta inspect your choice well. The good news is that whatever your price in that range, you will find a boat for that money. The bad news is that the cheaper you go, the more effort will the potential repairs take.

I thought the Nor'Sea 27 is gonna be it, but let's push the size limit even more with the 20 foot Flicka, this tiny, towable, but seaworthy beast that accomplished several circumnavigations. Upon entering, you will be amazed at how spacious and equipped with amenities the interior is. Its designer lived on this boat with his partner (who too was a naval architect) for years and cruised all around the world - and what a proof of confidence in his own design that is.

Truth be told, there is a lack of deck space, but underneath it has the comfort and size of a boat a few meters larger, a space you can comfortably live in. Due to its size, it is easy to operate, tow, and sails better than what you would expect from a boat this length.

This boat is incredibly charming, and so its owners rarely sell it. In fact, it has amassed quite a following since it was designed into existence. So expect to spend quite some time searching for one for sale. Once you do find one, it will cost you around $30,000 - $40,000.

This one's a weird one. But because of it, a very spacious one. It is structured as a catboat, that is, with the mast being all the way on the front of the boat, which makes for impressive space below the deck. It has all the necessary amenities, including a shower, so for the liveaboard lifestyle, this boat definitely deserves to make this list.

The single sail catboat design also means it is easy to handle single-handed, which makes for great solitary passages.

Expect to pay around $40,000 to $60,000 for this one.

Though I am trying to keep this list in lower price ranges, I have to put this one in. If you don't mind the price tag of around $170,000, this boat is marketed as the currently cheapest liveaboard catamaran. As previously mentioned, cats offer the most in terms of space, and this model is a brand new one. Thus when it comes to service troubles and costs, you wouldn't pay much. The look is modern, relatively minimalistic and sleek, so for those of you who would like to give the liveaboard lifestyle a go but get cold feet upon seeing boats from the 80s, this is a way to make sure things remain stylish.

The modernity, space, and attention to practicality when it comes to using this as your home, make this a great entry-level liveaboard choice.

Again, this is no performance vehicle. Rather it focuses on the usual cruiser aspects - space, stability, sturdiness, and convenience, which makes it an ideal candidate for your choice when looking for a new floating home. Aside from the spacious interior, this boat also has an unusually large cockpit, great for those lunches on the deck.

As if the designers knew this might be used by the liveaboard people, this boat is easy to handle, which means even under sail, you won't have issues focusing on what you came for in the first place - sea living.

This boat can be found on the market for around $75,000 - $100,000.

The great thing about the Hunter 33 is that it was designed as more of a house than a sailboat. The attention to accommodation details is great here; there is plenty of space for sleeping the owners as well as the occasional visitors, it has a fantastic headroom throughout the boat and one of the most spacious and comfortable dining spaces seen on boats this size.

Food preparation and consumption was probably high on the priority list of the makers; the kitchen has an L shape, which adds to the convenience.

The price spread on these is quite large, with the bottom around $55,000 for the 2004 models and the top around $95,000 for the 2013 models.

This one is for those who don't mind sacrificing luxury for space. If in the middle of the ocean, it makes sense that one would want as much of usable space as possible, so if you are okay with the simplicity that will inevitably come with a system like this, you have found your match.

An undeniable advantage of such a design approach is that the storage space is maximized. Long passages with the need for plenty of room for equipment and provisions won't be a problem here. The simplicity of this boat is not just in terms of design, but even the electrics and plumbing. Thus if something breaks, you will have an easier time fixing it.

This being an older model, you can get your hands on one for around $30,000.

Since we are mostly looking at cheaper boats here, most of them aren't new - in fact, they likely have quite a few years behind them. The build quality is thus important. You want to go for builds that will last. Peterson is known for this, so it's gotta be on the list. As far as this list goes, it is quite a large boat. Moreover, it is one that has been built with spaciousness in mind, both when it comes to living spaces and storage.

A neat thing about this boat is its attention to performance. It isn't a racer; rather, it fits in the performance cruiser category, but they haven't made too many speed-related compromises here.

Peterson 44 can usually be found for $80,000 - $100,000.

There needs to be a catamaran on this list - they are, by definition, more spacious than monohulls, providing a large living area, which is, of course, an attractive characteristic for a liveaboard boat. Especially if they have a solid bridge deck, creating yet more square feet of usable space, which Snowgoose has. Unfortunately, they tend to be costly. While it is easy to recommend a bunch of half a million dollar cats, to make this list more within reach of the average sailor, I've found this beauty that you can get for around $100,000.

Aside from the extra space, this model is a true bluewater cruiser, meaning you won't be limited by its abilities when planning your journeys.

Those of you who had the pleasure of sailing this boat know why it needs to be here. It was built for a liveaboard lifestyle. Its wide body makes for one spacious interior which is well ventilated, (a very important aspect) with a beautiful galley and it has a large aft cabin with a huge bed. It was made with comfort, practicality, and convenience in mind.

Not to sound like a salesman, but believe me when I say this boat is a genuine pleasure to be on. If you want the homey feeling, you don't get much closer than this in this size range.

Expect to pay around $80,000 - $100,000 for this one, though some digging around and 'fixing her up' can knock this number down significantly.

This is another easy choice, space being the reason. Not only does it have an extra-large main cabin and salon with a kitchen, many small Parisian apartments could envy, but it is also very generous in terms of storage space. Stocking up for longer crossings will be a pleasure on this one.

Also, it was built as a racer-cruiser, so you won't be making many compromises in terms of performance, as is often the case with comfortable boats.

All of this comes for a price, though. You might be able to find one for around $100,000 if you put some time into your search and won't mind a bit of travel to see it, but otherwise, the average price is around $130,000.

Let's end this list by stretching the ceiling too with this fifty-footer. It was designed as a holiday cruiser, and it is a popular choice among charter companies. The designers know that there are places in Europe where it is very easy to get a sailing license, so many inexperienced people who don't want to give up the comforts of their home end up on these boats. Oceanis 50 is thus comfortable, spacious, easy to sail, and the attention to accommodation details, amenities, and practicality, is very high.

As such, it is designed to house whole families, so if you live there as a couple, you will have a floating house for yourself, and if kids come, no need to buy a new boat. Even on the deck, this boat is designed for pleasure cruises, so as far as that goes, you will be taken care of. As far as their seaworthiness goes, some consider Beneteau an entry-level holiday brand, and some models are indeed more designed for coastal hopping than large crossings. But that can be fixed with some proper fitting.

If you fancy a new one, you will find yourself paying above the $500,000 mark, but older models start a bit above $100,000. Which is something a person who just sold all their possessions to escape to the sea is more likely to have. Just be a bit careful with boats sold by charter companies. Their previous owners serviced them regularly, but you can be sure the hundreds of sailors that touched the helm weren't necessarily skilled or kind to them.

So there you have it. $15,000 - $50,0000 range, 20 - 50-foot sizes, from cozy towable boats to large sailing houses. A range anybody can choose from to pursue the liveaboard dream. Nothing is stopping you now, so hit the yachtworld.com website and start browsing.

Know though that if you really want to take advantage of the boat market, you might have to travel quite a bit. If you are an American, the strong dollar will make it enticing to look for a boat in European countries without the EUR currency. Or you might find plenty of cheap models in Turkey, for instance. It requires more effort, but in return, it might save you tens of thousands of dollars.

Fair winds!

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Sailing Boats For Beginners

Learning to sail can be a serious challenge. It's the bedrock of world exploration that offers sailors an attuned sense of nature and its power. So, whether you're looking for a new family hobby or ticking off a sailor bucket list, there are many benefits to sailing. If you've just taken up the hobby or want to purchase your first boat, there are countless routes to take. You can lease and learn to sail or take the plunge with a new or second-hand boat purchase. A starter boat needs to teach the essentials without compromising on the bigger picture. So, from sailing dinghies to racing yachts , this guide will help you take your first sailing steps. We'll look at the best sailboats for beginners and features to look out for.

What size sailboat is good for a beginner?

While you might think that the smaller the vessel, the more beginner-friendly, that isn't the complete story. Sure, the smaller and lighter the boat, the simpler it is to control, but you also have to look at other aspects like handling. This includes all aspects of the rigging. Handling is just as important as a boat's size. That's what makes a basic sailing dinghy, for example, so useful for beginners. As your skills improve, you may look to update your boat for a more advanced model. For now, we'll look at what makes a boat easy to sail so you can make your first choice with confidence.

What sailboat features should I look for?

You can learn to sail on any vessel with sails. However, some boats are better teachers simply because they react quickly to your actions onboard. Small boats, in general, tend to be more reactive as they are immediately affected by commands on the tiller, wheel and sails, as well as the wind and crew weight. Immediacy is important for beginners as it gives you the intuition required when starting without throwing you in the deep end. The fewer hands required to handle things, the better for first-timers.  There are plenty of recommended beginner boats advocated by local yacht clubs, societies and courses. These cover classics like the child-friendly Optimist and modern high-tech sailboats with all the bells and whistles. Without talking about models, let's look at what makes a boat easy to sail.

Starting small

Small sailboats are far easier to manage. If you are a complete beginner, they make the perfect teachers. While a larger boat may provide more stability and comfort, it's far more tricky to control. If you have sailing experience already, it makes sense to increase the size of your boat to match your skillset. However, first-time learners need something small and manageable. It will also teach you the general jargon that comes with sailing culture, as well as the basic anatomy of your vessel. 

Tiller steering

Tiller steering boats provide you with up-close knowledge of basic navigation principles. With no wheel or high-tech mechanics involved, the tiller connects directly to your rudder so that you can feel the immediacy of your actions on the boat. This instinct will become useful when you move up to wheel steering, which has more of a delay.

Stable, sturdy build

A good starter boat is sturdy and strong. After all, beginners will make mistakes. It all comes with the process of learning. Opting for a boat that can deal with the bumps is a great choice. Rotationally moulded plastic, for instance, is hardy and functional. It's cheap and cheerful, making it ideal for a beginner. Save fibre-glass or wood finishes for further down the line.

Choose cleats 

Most small sailboats come with cleats. These are far easier to handle than winches, making them a true asset for first-timers. Cleats will make handling sheets and halyards much easier and provide less force on sails or rigging.

Trailer sailer

These are sailboats that can be trailered from location to location. This is a real asset for beginners who shouldn't be wasting resources on a marina or storage. Ideally, these boats can be kept in your backyard or garage and taken out as needed. You'll also be able to take them for detailed training in specific conditions and locations. 

Fewer sails

The less complex the rigging, the easier your boat will be to handle. Most newcomers learn the ropes with a single mast. You want something easy to rig with just one person. The choice is yours, but rudimentary single-mast sailboats with just a mainsail are a great way to learn the basics of handling before opting for a more advanced setup. 

What is the easiest type of sailboat to sail?

We've seen what features are easier to handle for beginners, but what sailboats should you look for? Unfortunately, there is no single best starter boat as we all have different wants and needs. A sailboat is also a huge commitment with significant costs and upkeep. As such, a second-hand boat is always advised as a first purchase. Other than that, here are some types to consider when learning to sail.

Sailing dinghies

The archetypal small sailboat is a favourite for a reason. Perfect for single and two-person use, it utilises a single mast for simplicity and can often be trailered around. The compact size of sailing dinghies make them perfect for learning with a teacher, as well as reinforcing lessons on your own. They are cheap, light and less likely to capsize, making them the perfect beginner boats. You can also take them out on shallow waters - so they're versatile and nimble choices.

The Wayfarer is one of the world's most popular sailing dinghies. This stable dinghy consists of a Bermuda (triangular) rig with a main, jib and symmetrical spinnaker. A recommended option is the Hartley 16, one of the safest sailboats on the market. 

The Sunfish is a small, personal-sized sailing dinghy of about 14ft that was first developed in the 1950s. Easy to sail, they consist of a mainsail with a flat deck to sit on. They are so ubiquitous that, despite being a brand name, Sunfish has come to refer to any board-style boat with a crab claw sail. More sailors have learnt the ropes on the Sunfish than any other type, so it's tried and tested!

Similar to a Sunfish, the Laser is a small, 1 to 2-person sailboat of 14ft that's widely used in racing. Complete with its own Olympic category, Lasers are a little more difficult to sail than Sunfish but are faster with more intuitive performance. Too much wind with improper control, however, and you may find yourself capsizing. While manageable for beginners, some basic experience is recommended with a Laser.

With a single mast, mainsail and headsail, a small sloop is a great choice for beginners. Easily mastered with a single sailor in light windy conditions or 2 in more windy conditions, they are sturdy and easy to handle. They come in a wide variety of sizes and include popular favourites like the Catalina 16.5. This is one of the most beloved weekend sailboats with a simple setup and fibre-glass hull. The larger 24ft model comes with a cabin.

Catamarans are stable options that are great for beginners to learn to sail with. With two hulls yet a light build, they respond quickly to handling. Look for small 15 -16ft catamarans as a first-time sailor, like the lightweight Sprint 15 or Hobie 16.

Keelboats are among the largest in the small sailing boat category and are more stable and secure. They start at around 20ft, but you're more likely to see a 35ft-long keelboat like the J/105. The keel is fixed where smaller rudimentary sailboats tend to have removable centreboards. They are excellent boats to learn on as they're unlikely to capsize - but they have to be kept at a marina as trailering them is tricky.

How to pick a sailboat?

Hopefully, we've given you some useful food for thought on what to look for in sailboats for beginners. While you don't have to choose any of the aforementioned sailboat types, think about the guidance above for size, handling and steering. With that said, we still have some final takeaways to help you choose your next dinghy or keelboat. For starters, choose a boat under 28ft. A small hull is more manageable for docking and navigation. Next, think about the price. A good starter sailboat should cost you no more than £10,000. It would be foolish to make an even larger investment on a beginner sailboat. With that said, only you know your must-haves, so isolate the features you want most and look for a boat that matches.

Welcome to the world of sailing

Taking up sailing is a lifetime dream for many. Take the plunge by booking yourself some lessons. While learning with experts is important, you'll also want time to yourself. That's what makes a smaller setup so important. While it's cheaper to invest in a sailboat than renting one out for every practice session, you'll still want some experience before buying your first sailboat. So, whether you're looking for dinghy cruising boats, recreational day trips or racing, you'll now know what to look for to choose the best sailboat for beginners.

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7 Best Golf Club Sets for Beginners in 2024

Skip the garage sale hunting and buy new.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

THERE COMES A time in every man's life when he discovers the glory of golf and chooses to dedicate his time and energy to getting better at the game. No matter if you got into golf because of your friends, your family, or by yourself (golfers born from the Pandemic raise a hand), your growing fondness for the links means you need a proper golf club set.

The Best Golf Clubs for Beginners

BEST OVERALL GOLF CLUBS FOR BEGINNERS

Callaway xr complete set.

BEST GOLF CLUBS FOR PLAYING MULTIPLE TIMES A WEEK

Taylormade rbz speedlite set.

BEST SET FOR ABSOLUTE FIRST TIMERS

Precise top line men's m5 golf club set.

Best Set for Beginners who Love a Golf Cart

Cobra golf mens fly xl golf package set.

BEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK

Wilson men's profile complete set with stand bag.

Best Golf Club Set for Beginners on Amazon

Callaway men's strata intro complete 9-piece set.

BEST SET FOR RAPID IMPROVEMENT

Stix golf perform series.

MOST STREAMLINED GOLF CLUB SET

Robin golf men's essentials 9-club golf set.

Read more: Train Like Dustin Johnson

What Brand of Golf Clubs Are Best for Beginners?

All of the major companies now sell beginner sets, and the quality of them are significantly better than what was available years ago. They usually come with a moderately full set, 4 iron to sand wedge and the putter. Generally a full set is 14 clubs, that includes the putter. “I tell everyone the same thing in the beginning, find a few clubs that you can hit—a hybrid, a 5 iron, a 7 iron, a pitching wedge, a putter," says Sliva. "You can learn to do a lot with those things, especially in the beginning; you don’t need to worry so much about distance," says Sliva.

How Much Should You Spend on Your First Set of Golf Clubs?

Really, the choice is up to you. If you’ve got cash to splash and don’t want to buy a new set for a while, you can anticipate spending around $1,000 for a beginner set of sticks. For those who are unsure, though, there’s no issue with spending less—you can still make leaps in progress by keeping cash in your pocket for more rounds or lessons.

When asked about pricing, Sliva said, “I have a ton of people who come to me for lessons, and they always say, ‘I don't have a club, what should I buy?’ And I'm like, don't spend any money.” You can find something that’s pretty inexpensive online, anywhere from $400-700, and it will last you five years and help you decide whether or not you like the game.

If you are having trouble figuring out how much you want to spend, all you have to do is break it down. Let’s say you play 10 times a season over five years (or 15-20 times a season over 10 years). How much did it really cost you for your clubs per round? Your average rental set is going to be $35-$40 a round these days.” Once you decide you are serious about golf, then it’s worth getting fitted for a set. A fitted set should last you at least a decade of regular play.

Read more: Best Golf Gifts

How Do I Choose Golf Clubs as a Beginner?

Beginners to golf do not need to go and get a custom fitting on their clubs, but if you have the money and want to go all in on your new hobby then we won't stop you from hitting your local PGA Superstore or indoor golf center to get fitted on a simulator . Sliva says that the brand doesn’t matter that much, but new golfers should absolutely consider their height before making a big purchase. “The only initial adjustments you need to make as a beginner is if you are tall or short. If you are over 6'2", consider sizing a half-inch or more length adjustment on your clubs. You can also just opt for a set that has a "Tall" set available. If you are under 5'5", you'll likely want a half-inch decrease in length adjustment.”

If you like to go by feel, swinging your friends clubs or talking to a pro at your local course will help confirm the sizing you need. As you progress in your game sizing can be pinpointed down further to personalized club sizing, if you choose.

How We Selected

Aside from writing about exercises to improve golf fitness for over 10 years, the editors and writers of Men's Health have been heads-down on the best golf gear for over four years. When it comes to golf club sets, we took into account factors like price, club design, number of clubs, and the design of the golf bag. Most of these golf club sets come from brands you already know, but we also highlighted some lesser known, direct-to-consumer brands that provide a ton of value. Ready to see the list?

When it comes to the game of golf, not many brands can boast expertise in every single category. One that can, though, is Callaway. The brand behind elite golf balls, top-tier putters, pro-worthy irons and drivers, Callaway is no slouch when it comes to making high-quality gear for beginners.

The mallet putter is made by Odyssey and fashioned in its iconic #7 shape, which is ultra-forgiving and provides an excellent touch—two elements you’re rarely going to find in an entry level putter. The irons are classics, based on decades of stellar game-improvement technology, while the hybrids, 3 wood and driver are modeled after one of golf’s most exciting new weapons, the Paradym. This set will set you back more than most, but don’t be surprised if you tote these clubs along with you for the next ten years.

While one of the most expensive of the bunch, this TaylorMade set is certifiably legit. We're talking about a beast of a driver with a 460cc titanium head, a beautiful set of high-performance irons, and a stylish golf bag that will protect your investment with aplomb.

This is a set for those who are getting serious and playing several times per week. The barrier to entry is higher than the rest of the options on our list, but when you consider the pedigree of a brand like TaylorMade, you’ll find that the long lifespan of the clubs and golf bag make it a set you can grow into and not have to replace for years.

For someone just getting into the game or hitting the range for the very first time, this set is a great to start with. With every club you’ll need to get from the tee box to the green (and probably everywhere in between), this set won’t leave you without an option, no matter how wayward your shots get.

The set has a solid 4.3 out of 5 star rating on Amazon, with reviewers lauding the set’s value and high level of forgiveness. Odds are high you’ll want to upgrade sooner than later, but if you or someone you know likes to pick up new hobbies, this set will help decide if golf is a lifelong commitment or just a phase.

Another set from one of the most prestigious equipment brands in golf, the Cobra Fly XL set is the ideal set for someone who knows they’re going to be consistently hitting the golf course in a golf cart. The cart bag is big, sturdy, and spacious, while the wide range of clubs gives you options in every part of the course.

The Cobra brand is well-recognized, and these striking clubs will fit in with any other sets on the course, ensuring that your skills do the talking, not your equipment. If your skills are lacking, that’s okay, too, because each club in this set is super forgiving thanks to excellent weight distribution and optimized shape, from the driver right down through the putter.

This Wilson set features two premium features we love. The first are the irons. They're accurate and balanced, making them a solid set to build the base of your arsenal for years to come. The second is the golf bag: it's highly comfortable thanks to the dual carrying strap and comes with ample pocket space.

Wilson is a brand with immense golf pedigree—no player worth their salt will scoff at the brand’s gear, whether you’re shooting even par or twenty-over. The set is immensely affordable, so while it will probably long outlast your golf career, it won’t make you feel bad about upgrading once you start to improve.

This Strata set from Callaway is a perennial best-seller for a reason. For under $300 you get six essential clubs to take your game to the next level without having to worry about keeping tabs on all the others that go in-between. Sure you sacrifice not having an entire set of irons, but beginners do not need to worry about using the exact suggested iron on every shot—sticking to the 7i and 9i in the bag will help you stay competitive on the course while learning the game. With the set you also get a loaded golf bag that features a stand, five compartment pockets, a cooler pocket, and a rain hood.

Over 5,900 five-star Amazon reviews are attributed to this set, with many individuals praising the club's balance and overall value. We hold the same opinion to be true.

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Picking up on the game quicker than you thought? You can skip the early stages and go for a complete set that allows you to learn how to optimize your shot-making skills. The Stix Perform Set is a complete 12-club set that will provide you with all the tools you need, all for under $1,000.

The Perform set is the brand’s first set with the option for irons with a steel shaft, a boon for mid-high handicap players whose higher swing speeds may be a bit too much for the extra flex of graphite. Clubs that benefit from the flex, the driver, 3 wood and 4 hybrid still come standard with graphite, but having the choice when selecting irons is going to greatly increase the amount of time you’ll stick with your Stix.

Read more: Best Compression Socks

Launched during the start of the Pandemic, Robin Golf came right into the picture as the game boomed. The brand helps eliminate the confusion of buying clubs for new players and also helps cut costs by selling direct to consumers.

The Essentials Set gives you high-performance clubs that have a big sweet spot and come in a sleek matte black design that won’t single you out as a newbie on the golf course. Lest we forget to mention you get an all-black stand bag plus head covers.

Meet the Expert

• Paul Sliva , Head Golf Professional at Van Cortlandt Golf Course in the Bronx, NY, the oldest public golf course in the U.S.

How To Find the Right Size of Golf Clubs

Beginners to golf do not need get a custom fitting for clubs, but if you have the money and want to go all in on your new hobby then we won't stop you. Really the main measurement you want to get right when buying is proper club sizing (not too tall or too short), and the good news is most of these clubs will have a solid fit for just starting out.

The only initial adjustments you need to make as a beginner is if you are exceptionally tall or short. If you are over 6'2", consider sizing a half-inch or more length adjustment on your clubs. You can also just opt for a set that has a "Tall" set available. If you are under 5'5", you'll likely want a half-inch decrease in length adjustment.

Should I Buy Pre-Owned Golf Clubs?

There's nothing wrong with buying pre-owned clubs to serve as your first beginner set. Sometimes you can even buy really nice pre-owned clubs for a solid price. Yet the downside is, you guessed it, they were somebody else's. There's wear and tear on them.

Instead of buying pre-owned, opt for new. A new set will give you the proper tools to get acclimated on the course and really give you the opportunity to learn the game. Golf is a lot about feel . Your clubs should be your best friend out on the links, not some raggedy set who's best days are long gone.

Buying a new set also gives you something to build off of. As you get better you'll want to make upgrades. Maybe you want a more precise sand wedge or a driver with more power? What you'll do next is swap out single clubs one at a time until you find a set that fits your game to a T.

Read More About the Best Golf Gear

Best Golf Watches | Best Golf Gifts | Best Golf Shoes | Best Golf Bags | Best Golf Watches | Best Golf Gadgets | Best Golf Shorts | Best Golf Shoes

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Best pickleball paddles for beginners: Start playing with confidence in 2024

From vatic to wilson, these are the most balanced and easy-to-use pickleball paddles for beginners..

While they might all look the same, minor variations in shape, size and weight can dramatically impact the way a pickleball  paddle performs. Some are built for power; some for spin. But the best pickleball  paddles for beginners are more balanced. Since you don't know your preferred playing style yet and you may not even have a solid grasp of form and technique, you want a paddle that's a jack of all trades but a master of none.

With that said, recommend opting for a relatively lightweight paddle that's on the wider end of the spectrum. These tend to be easier to control and a little more forgiving of mishits -- which you'll have a lot of as a beginner.

If all of that sounded like jibberish to you, don't worry: We've rounded up our five favorite pickleball paddles for beginners to help you find the best fit for you.

Best pickleball paddle for beginners overall: Vatic Pro Prism Flash

The Vatic Pro Prism Flash is an investment, but it's worth it. Weighing in at 8 ounces, it's a midweight paddle that offers a good balance of power and control. Adding to that power and control is the carbon fiber face and standard 7.7-inch width.

All of this makes the premium paddle one of the best picks to help you feel confident in your swing from day one. With the balance of power and spin, you can use this paddle to start honing your technique by practicing hard drives and lobs, as well as dinks and spins.

If your end goal is to play pickleball casually with friends, the performance of this paddle will serve you well for years. By the time you do finally need to upgrade, you'll know exactly whether you're more of a power player or spin doctor.

Top features of the Vatic Pro Prism Flash:

• The lightweight yet thick (16 mm) paddle is easy to control for beginners.
• The wider carbon fiber face offers enough control and power to practice a wide range of playing styles.
• The balanced design and premium construction will be just as enjoyable to play with as your skill develops, so you can use the same paddle for years. 

Easiest pickleball paddle to control: Wilson Echo Energy     

Wilson's  Echo Energy  paddle boasts a wide paddle face (8 inches) to maximize control and create a larger sweet spot. That wide sweet spot is great for beginners as it means you have a better chance of landing the perfect hit for an accurate, powerful shot.

At 7.7 ounces, it's a lightweight paddle that's easier to control than bigger pickleball paddles. Add the softer fiberglass composite face that helps you add spin or accurately hit the ball from awkward angles, and this paddle becomes one of the best picks for beginners who want to practice spins and other tricky shots that throw off your opponent.

With that said, it's not as powerful as some of the other paddles on this list. But that can be a good thing for beginners who can get overwhelmed with a paddle that launches the ball at the slightest tap. While you're still learning the proper form and technique, a less powerful paddle can be easier to use for practicing both hard and soft shots.

Get it while it's on sale at Amazon for $70 (reduced from $120). If you miss the sale, you can also get it directly from Wilson for $120.

Top features of the Wilson Echo Energy:

• The 8-inch wide paddle offers a similarly wide sweet spot so you can still pull off accurate shots even at bad angles.
• The fiberglass face dampens the power but makes this paddle easier to control.
• Short and lightweight, the Wilson pickleball paddle is easy to wield even if you've never played before.

Best pickleball paddle for beginners with big hands: Rokne Curve Classic

With a 5.5-inch long handle that's 4.25 inches thick, this pickleball paddle is the perfect size for someone with larger hands or who prefers to do double-handed swings. It's also a good option for tennis  players who are coming to pickleball as the longer, wider handle will feel more familiar.

Aside from the larger handle, the Rokne Curve Classic pickleball paddle offers a textured fiberglass face for better control and more spin opportunities. That's balanced out by a mid-range width of 7.5 inches and weight of 8 ounces -- both of which add some power to each hit. That makes it a balanced paddle suitable for beginners who want to practice different playing styles.

Get the versatile pickleball paddle on Amazon for $90. It's available in a wide range of colorways.

Top features of the Rokne Curve Classic:

• The long and wide handle offers a comfortable grip for large hands or double-handed playing styles.
• The textured fiberglass face makes it easier to control your shots and add spin when you want.
• The standard width and midweight design help deliver extra oomph to each shot to make hard drives and lobs easier.

Best pickleball paddle for beginners on a budget: Joola Essentials

Regularly priced at $60, the Joola Essentials is one of the best pickleball paddles you can find at this price point. The premium design includes a 7.9-inch wide paddle with a reinforced fiberglass face that's more powerful than a standard fiberglass paddle.

Other beginner-friendly features include the shorter 4.75-inch handle, mid-range 4-inch grip circumference and textured handle for a comfortable, confident grip on your paddle. It's an all-around well-balanced design that will let you get a feel for the game and different playing styles without feeling overwhelmed by explosive power or out-of-control spin.

Plus, you can get it right now for an even more beginner-friendly price of $38 while it's on sale at Amazon.

Top features of the Joola Essentials:

• The handle is 4.75 inches long and 4 inches thick, making it easy to control and comfortable to hold for most players.
• The 7.9-inch paddle width adds even more control to help beginners feel confident from day one.
• At 8.2 ounces, this paddle is a good balance of controllable weight with just enough heft to add some power behind your serves.

Best pickleball paddle set for beginners: YC Dgycasi

This pickleball set comes with two honeycomb polymer core paddles, which are lightweight and durable, four balls (two for outdoor use and two for indoor use) and a carrying case. These soft paddles offer a comfortable grip with a carbon fiber-based composite surface that reduces ball deflection and improves gameplay.

For beginners, we also love the shorter handle (4.9 inches long) and wider paddle (7.8 inches). Together, this shape and size are easier to control than longer paddles.

Even more beginner-friendly is the price. The budget set includes two paddles, four balls and a carrying case so you and a friend can get everything you need to start practicing for under $50, all in.

Regularly priced at $40 for the set, you can get it for just $32 after coupon at Amazon.

Top features of the YC Dgycasi pickleball set:

• Weighing just 7.5 ounces per paddle, these are lightweight beginner-friendly paddles.
• This is one of the best prices you'll find for carbon fiber pickleball paddles.
• The wider 7.8-inch paddle and shorter (4.9-inch) handle give beginners better control of their swing.
• Since everything you need is included, this set is a convenient, inexpensive way to get started with the game.

Shop more top-rated pickleball paddles for beginners:

• A premium graphite pickleball for under $100: Onix Graphite Z5, $70 (reduced from $90)
• A beginner-friendly set you'll still enjoy down the road: SLK Neo 2.0 by Selkirk, set of 2, $60 (reduced from $80)
• Get your first pickleball paddle for $25: GoSports GS1, $25
• A generous sweet spot at a bargain price: PCKL Launch Series, $60 (reduced from $65)

How do you pick a pickleball paddle for beginners?

The best pickleball paddle for beginners is one that's relatively easy to control and more forgiving when you hit at a bad angle. In practical terms, that usually means lightweight (nothing over 8.2 ounces), a thicker core (typically 13 mm or higher), and the shortest handle you can comfortably hold given your hand size.

If you're willing to spend more, opt for a carbon fiber or graphite face because these materials tend to offer more control and a wider sweet spot -- the area on the paddle face where you'll get the most power and accuracy in your shot.

If you'd prefer a more budget-friendly option, opt for fiberglass. It's not as stiff as carbon fiber or graphite so you won't get as much power and control, but it's still a reliable, beginner-friendly material. It usually comes at a fraction of the price of a carbon fiber or graphite paddle.

How do I know what size pickleball paddle I need?

Choosing a pickleball paddle size can be tricky, but in general, longer paddles will have more power while wider options have a larger sweet spot that makes it easier to get a good hit. If you're a beginner or just want a more forgiving paddle for casual playing, opt for a wider (closer to 8 inches) paddle.

The handle, which typically ranges from 4.5 inches to 5.5 inches long, should be as short as possible so your grip is closer to the paddle itself for better control of your swing. With that said, you also have to consider your hand size. For larger hands, a handle that's too short can make it hard to get a good grip.

Another exception to the short-handle rule is anyone who's coming to pickleball from tennis. You might feel more comfortable and more in control of your swing with a longer handle since you're used to handling a larger, longer tennis racket. 

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The best Thief build for beginners in Dragon’s Dogma 2

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The Thief vocation is undoubtedly the most unorthodox vocation in Dragon’s Dogma 2 , at least among the four starting vocations.

However, don’t let that deter you. Beyond the fact that you can change vocations if you don’t like it, the Thief is a lot of fun in combat and can deal plenty of damage with its acrobatic tricks. In fact, we even named it as the best vocation to choose at the start of Dragon’s Dogma 2 .

When you’ve ranked up the Thief vocation a few times, more weapon skills, core skills, and augments will become available to you for purchase at any Vocation Guild, bolstering its nimble playstyle. You’ll also need to consider which equipment to use.

It’s all a lot to juggle, so here’s the best Thief build for beginners in Dragon’s Dogma 2 .

Best Thief weapon skills to get first in Dragon’s Dogma 2

With the Thief, there are two viable playstyle options. You can either focus on the stealth aspect, darting about in the shadows and striking when the time is right as your foes focus on your pawns, or you can go on the all-out offensive with constant dodges to avoid taking too much damage. Our build mostly focuses on the latter because it’s a little more beginner-friendly, but you can easily adapt it to include one stealth-minded skill if needed. Also, make sure you upgrade each skill to the advanced variant as soon as you can.

• Biting Wind
• Helm Splitter
• Powder Charge

Biting Wind (and its advanced variant, Cutting Wind) is an absolute must no matter how you construct your Thief build. It should be your primary attack, because it consumes next to no stamina and allows you to close the gap between yourself and an enemy in an instant, slashing them with your daggers as you pass. You’re also nearly impossible to hit while in this state. The only worry is if you’re fighting near a cliff or in a tight space and you accidentally Biting Wind yourself too far, because you glide and dance around the battlefield without too much control over the direction.

When you’re taking on any flying or enormous foes, Helm Splitter is a godsend — it’s one of the only ways you can reliably harm large enemies as a Thief. The move sends you flying into the sky directly where you stand, rolling forward in mid-air like a Droideka to deal a flurry of hits. Timed well, you can take down flying enemies like this, but it’s especially useful against ogres, cyclopes, and the like.

Powder Charge is the only area-of-effect attack the Thief has, allowing you to plant an explosive in the ground then remotely trigger it from afar. This is useful against big groups of smaller enemies, or perhaps even more impressive is that the Thief is renowned for its ability to climb upon the backs of bigger foes. You can stick the Powder Charge into an ogre, leap off, then detonate the charge and send the big guy flying.

Finally, we have Ensnare , which is the only skill here that doesn’t deal direct damage. Instead, this is your most reliable tactic against flying enemies, as you can essentially stick a rope on them then pull them to the ground, where you can unleash melee attacks. However, much like Powder Charge, this can also be used on larger targets to knock them off balance.

Best Thief core skills and augments in Dragon’s Dogma 2

There are four core skills for the Thief, one of which is an absolute necessity and should come pre-unlocked as soon as you get your hands on the vocation: Scarlet Kisses . This is your basic attack, but it allows you to deal lots of reliable damage in quick succession. Controlled Fall is also very useful when you get knocked over, if you can react quick enough.

When it comes to augments , Subtlety is by far the best Thief choice, because it means you’re less likely to be the target of your foes. You’re somewhat of a glass cannon as a Thief, so limiting the amount of damage you’re likely to take is helpful. If you’ve ranked up your Fighter vocation, the Mettle and Thew augments are also incredibly useful to the Thief. Mettle increases your defense stat, while Thew increases inventory size , as you naturally have less capacity being a nimble Thief.

Best Thief equipment in Dragon’s Dogma 2

As this build is aimed at beginners in Dragon’s Dogma 2, it’s tough to recommend very specific pieces that will elevate the build massively because your options are limited. Eventually you’ll find bits and pieces through exploration and completing side quests, but at the start you’re better off forking out some cash at Bjorn’s Armory and Roderick’s Smithy in Vernworth. These are the best armor and weapons available there for the Thief vocation.

There’s only one feasible choice for the helmet, and that’s the Unseen Shadow (4500 gold). The other option, the Hard-Leather Helm, is subpar in every regard. For the body armor, go for the Ranger’s Vest (7900 gold) because it’s half a kilo lighter than the more expensive Scaled Jacket, and offers more resistances. Finally, the Sprinter’s Boots (7900 gold) are the best option for leg armor, because even though they’re a little heavier than the other options, they offer impressive knockdown resistance which is a huge help for the Thief.

When it comes to weaponry, both the Stilettos (5300 gold) and the Snagdaggers (14800 gold) are worthy options. The Snagdaggers deal much more damage, but they’re considerably heavier, so it’s worth weighing up the options if you’ll pardon the pun.

Without giving away any spoilers however, if you do choose to play as the Thief vocation, you should prioritize the main quest, in particular the tasks Captain Brant asks of you. You’ll eventually stumble upon some very nice Thief gear indeed.

For more Dragon’s Dogma 2 guides , see our suggestions for the best Fighter build , best Archer build , and best Mage build for beginners. We also have explainers on how to unlock the Warrior , Sorcerer , Mystic Spearhand , Magick Archer , Trickster , and Warfarer vocations, how to change your vocation , and a list of all vocations .

• Dragon’s Dogma 2 guides
• Sphinx riddle solutions
• How to unlock all vocations
• Seeker’s Token locations
• Best augments

Dragon’s Dogma 2 guides, walkthroughs, and explainers

• How to import a pre-made character
• Beginner’s tips before starting
• How to hire and use pawns
• Combat tips for new players
• How to delete your Dragon’s Dogma 2 save files (PC only)
• What vocation to pick + all vocations list
• All pawn specializations
• Best augments and augments list
• How to change your vocation
• How to unlock the Warrior vocation
• How to unlock the Sorcerer vocation
• How to unlock the Magick Archer vocation
• How to unlock the Mystic Spearhand vocation
• How to unlock the Trickster vocation
• How to unlock the Warfarer vocation
• The best Archer build for beginners
• The best Fighter build for beginners
• The best Mage build for beginners
• How to change your appearance
• How to fast travel
• How to change the time of day
• How to buy a house
• How to increase inventory size
• How to get more Wakestones
• How to get out of gaol
• Where to find 30 Seeker’s Tokens
• Best portcrystal locations
• How to reach the Nameless Village
• How to get into Battahl
• How to get to Agamen Volcanic Island
• Best quest order for Captain Brant
• When to go to the ‘Feast of Deception’ coronation
• All Sphinx riddle solutions (for ‘A Game of Wits’)
• ‘The Arisen’s Shadow’ quest walkthrough
• ‘A Beggar’s Tale’ quest walkthrough
• ‘The Caged Magistrate’ quest walkthrough
• ‘Hunt for the Jadeite Orb’ quest walkthrough
• ‘The Ornate Box’ quest walkthrough
• ‘Oxcart Courier’ quest walkthrough
• ‘The Phantom Oxcart’ quest walkthrough
• ‘Prey for the Pack’ quest walkthrough
• ‘Readvent of Calamity’ quest walkthrough
• ‘Saint of the Slums’ quest walkthrough
• ‘Shadowed Prayers’ quest walkthrough
• ‘Tensions on the High Road’ quest walkthrough
• ‘A Veil of Gossamer Clouds’ quest walkthrough

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7 Best Vanguard Funds for Beginner Investors

Beginner investors looking for maximum diversification and minimum fees can turn to these top Vanguard funds.

Vanguard Funds for Beginners

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These Vanguard funds simplify the process of creating a diversified portfolio.

Slick marketing and promises of high returns can easily draw many new investors toward exotic-sounding asset classes.

The allure of investments like private equity, commodities , hedge funds, private credit, sector-specific funds, leveraged funds and real estate is undeniable on the surface. However, the drawbacks of these alternatives often include high fees, illiquidity and complexity.

There's a compelling simplicity in building a diversified investment portfolio consisting of stocks, bonds and cash. Stocks offer growth potential, bonds provide income and stability, and cash acts as a buffer for liquidity and safety.

Today, beginners can construct a comprehensive portfolio covering all three of these asset classes through Vanguard's fund lineup, which includes 352 mutual funds and exchange-traded funds, or ETFs .

While some options are institutional-only, the majority are accessible to retail investors. In true Vanguard fashion, most of these funds are broadly diversified across sectors and geographies, and they're known for their low cost, with expense ratios dipping as low as 0.03%.

"Beginner investors should consider Vanguard funds for their low costs, diversification across asset classes and regions, simplicity, and robust investor education resources," says Sean August, CEO of August Wealth Management Group. "In addition, Vanguard's reputable status and client-owned mutual structure help instill trust and prioritize investor interests."

Here are seven of the best Vanguard funds for beginner investors:

Vanguard S&P 500 ETF ( VOO )

To help beginner investors avoid "analysis paralysis," August recommends a two-part process for fund selection. "Firstly, assessing the fund's investment objective is crucial to ensure alignment with personal investment goals, whether it involves growth, income or a combination of both," August says. "Next, evaluate the fund's risk profile to match it with your risk tolerance, and compare expense ratios."

For example, a young investor looking for long-term growth may pick a low-cost U.S. equity ETF like VOO, which tracks the S&P 500 index . Historically, this index has delivered excellent performance, but has also been quite volatile, so a high risk tolerance is essential. VOO costs a low 0.03% expense ratio and is also available as a mutual fund in the form of the Vanguard 500 Index Fund Admiral Shares ( VFIAX ).

Vanguard Total Stock Market Index Fund Admiral Shares ( VTSAX )

"We believe investors can benefit from the diversification of a market-weighted portfolio that provides exposure to the broader market," says Sophoan Prak, a certified financial planner at Vanguard. "For example, investors who buy VTSAX obtain broad exposure to large-, mid- and small-cap U.S. companies, providing a good representation of the broader domestic market."

The CRSP U.S. Total Market Index tracked by VTSAX delivers exposure to over 3,700 domestic stocks. This index is weighted by market capitalization, which means that larger companies are assigned greater allocations. As a result, VTSAX's top holdings are very similar to that of VOO, and both funds have performed virtually identically. VTSAX charges a 0.04% expense ratio.

Vanguard Total International Stock ETF ( VXUS )

"For even broader diversification, investors can benefit from including international stocks in their portfolio mix," Prak says. "Vanguard's research supports having approximately a 40% exposure to international stocks in order to create a portfolio that is less volatile over the long term." This generally encompasses an allocation to both developed and emerging market countries.

Examples of the former include the U.K., Japan, Canada, Australia, France and Germany, whereas the latter encompasses China, India, Taiwan, Saudi Arabia and more. An ETF like VXUS, which tracks the FTSE Global All Cap ex U.S. Index, delivers exposure to all the aforementioned countries and more, holding over 8,500 stocks. VXUS charges a 0.08% expense ratio.

Vanguard Total World Stock Index Fund Admiral Shares ( VTWAX )

To put Vanguard's suggestion of holding 40% in international stocks in practice, investors can combine VXUS with VOO or VTSAX. Alternatively, they can opt for a globally diversified mutual fund like VTWAX, which tracks the FTSE Global All Cap Index. This fund currently holds over 9,800 market-cap-weighted stocks from U.S., developed and emerging markets for a 0.1% expense ratio.

VTWAX's portfolio is designed to reflect the relative weighted proportions of each country's stock market. Currently, this means around 62% to U.S. stocks, 3% in Canada, 25.6% in developed markets and 9.4% in emerging markets. However, these weights can change over time as various markets outperform or underperform, making VTWAX a dynamic representation of the global equity market's average.

Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF ( BND )

"Your investment goals, time horizon and risk tolerance should be the driver for your portfolio's overall stock and bond asset mix," Prak says. "If you're closer to retirement, consider adding some bonds to the asset mix to reduce the volatility of the portfolio." For low-cost exposure to a diversified portfolio of domestic-issued bonds, Vanguard offers BND at a competitive 0.03% expense ratio.

BND tracks the Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Float Adjusted Index, which consists of over 11,000 U.S. government Treasurys, mortgage-backed securities and investment-grade corporate bonds averaging 8.5 years in maturity. It pays distributions on a monthly basis, and currently sits at a 4.5% 30-day SEC yield. It is also available as the Vanguard Total Bond Market Index Fund Admiral Shares ( VBTLX ).

Vanguard Target Retirement 2060 Fund ( VTTSX )

"Mutual funds offer a great way to gain broad exposure to a basket of securities," Prak says. "The average person may not have the time or expertise to analyze and build a portfolio of individual stocks and bonds to reap the diversification benefits mutual funds can provide." Instead of combining BND with an equity fund, investors can opt for a managed solution like VTTSX.

This target-date fund is intended for investors looking to retire around 2060. Currently, its portfolio consists of roughly 90% in global stocks and 10% in global bonds. However, it will gradually adjust to become more bond-heavy and conservative as time goes on, in order to reduce risk and match an investor's shortening time horizon. VTTSX charges a 0.08% expense ratio.

Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF ( VIG )

"Less experienced investors may benefit from focusing on well-diversified funds with an emphasis on higher-quality securities," says David James, managing director at Coastal Bridge Advisors. "Inevitably, the markets will correct at some point and that is likely to touch any newbie's nerves, but knowing that you own high-quality securities can help them get through a tough period of time."

A notable Vanguard ETF that offers exposure to quality blue-chip stocks is VIG. This ETF tracks the S&P U.S. Dividend Growers Index, which requires holdings to have a 10-year history of dividend growth while excluding the top 25% yielding stocks. The result is a portfolio of robust, long-standing companies like Microsoft Corp. (MSFT), JPMorgan Chase & Co. ( JPM ) and Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) for a 0.06% expense ratio.

7 Best Vanguard Funds to Buy and Hold

Tony Dong March 4, 2024

Tags: investing , stock market , Vanguard , exchange traded funds , mutual funds , Microsoft , JPMorgan Chase , Johnson & Johnson

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The 12 Best Beginner Motorcycles For Long Road Trips

I t's easy to romanticize the idea of setting off on a long road trip, especially when it concerns doing it on two wheels . It's a chance to revel in the freedom the open roads give you, explore, and, quite importantly, get to know the vehicle enabling this experience. Given that, though, it's critical to get the right kind of machine along for this trip.

UPDATE: 2024/01/26 16:17 EST BY RAUNAK AJINKYA

Road trips, in general, can be tough if you don't have the right motorcycle along for the ride, especially if you are a novice rider. Given that, we have updated this list to include a few more entries of motorcycles perfectly suited for the job.

This is especially true if you're a rider devoid of a lot of seat time. The last thing you want to do is bring someone's sportbike along because while it may have a lot of power and consume miles rapidly, it's something you'll tire of rather quickly because of the compromised riding triangle. Luckily, this list should help you get through that selection process. It features beginner-friendly motorcycles you can legitimately rely on for long road trips by the likes of Suzuki , Harley-Davidson , Yamaha , and even Ducati, among others.

How we got our model selections: To compile this list, HotCars made a list of all the appropriate motorcycles on offer that enable long trips. While power was considered a criterion to narrow the list down, the motorcycles also needed to be beginner-friendly, meaning priority was given to motorcycles with comfortable ergonomics, impressive fuel tank capacity, and easy-to-handle curb weight figures. It should be noted that this list is a mix of motorcycles currently in production and those that have been discontinued but can be readily found in the used market. Also, the motorcycles have been organized in increasing order of the current market values.

Top 10 Beginner Motorcycles Under 500cc

Suzuki boulevard s40, used price range: $2,000-$6,000.

Suzuki's cheapest Boulevard doesn't leave you wanting for much. The 652cc engine is strong but not too strong for the bike's weight. It's not quite as long as other cruisers, which is nice for a beginner, and it's got a fairly affordable used price range, too. The seating is relaxed, with handles a little closer to you.

The newer ones come in a cool street-color gray and a classic blue. The way it features less chrome with a blacked-out engine and black finish on the wheels makes it look sporty and simple. A single speedometer over the gas tank is analog, and it has plates on the sides for saddlebags if you need cargo space.

2019 Suzuki Boulevard S40 Specs

(Specs sourced from Motorcycle Specs )

Harley-Davidson Iron 883

Used price range: $2,000-$10,000.

This Harley-Davidson gets 833 America-made ccs of power and goes for well under $10k in the used market. It's one of the best Harleys to start with, and you won't get kicked out of a biker bar for owning one. The Iron 883 has a V-Twin engine. If you don't know, this is a cool thing to have if you wear a leather jacket with patches unironically.

Admittedly, you don't get quite as much for your investment as an Indian Scout Sixty, and both will always be less reliable than a Honda or Kawasaki, but there are some things that just don't compare, like the trademark Harley rumble! Plus, with motorcycles, there's always less to fix than with cars so that you can do a lot of the work yourself.

2008 Harley-Davidson Iron 883 Specs

Yamaha v star 250, starting msrp: $4,699.

The Yamaha V-Star 250 is one of the very best for uneasy beginners looking to road trip . A new one costs just $4,699, and it gets 78 MPG. That means 195 miles between stops, which is pretty decent for a motorcycle. If you haven't figured it out, most of the time, the numbers by the name represent the ccs in a bike, so this has 249 (thus, 250). That means it's a very comfortable beginner's bike that won't scare you but can still get up to cruising speed faster than most cars. It also means the bike is lighter and easier to control.

It has a decent rear seat for passengers and a good base for saddlebags and packs. The speedometer is analog, and the styling is classic, so you might get confused if you park by any V-Star from the past 40 years. Despite the timeless look, the bike holds up to aging well and won't feel rough or uncomfortable on a long trip.

2024 Yamaha V-Star 250 Specs

(Specs sourced from WebBikeWorld )

These Are The Best Cheap Beginner Motorcycles From Japan

Ducati scrambler sixty2, used price range: $5,000-$7,000.

The Scrambler Sixty2 is a 399cc sportbike marketed more towards women. It weighs less than any on this list at just 403 lbs, which is great for people worried about laying it down on accident. It may look like a "naked" (a sportbike with no fairings or extra body covers), but this bike gets just shy of 250 miles of range, and even though the seat is a little more aggressive and won't hug your buns, the way it's shaped actually is relaxing and won't rub your behind the wrong way like a dirt bike (for men and women).

This bike won't be able to hold saddlebags, but the Sixty2 makes a great road trip bike for someone who won't spend more than three days riding in a row and wants a good in-town motorcycle the rest of the time. Surprisingly, for its size (but not for Ducati's standards), it can go up to 100 mph, so you'll never be left wanting more power on the freeway.

2018 Ducati Scrambler Sixty2 Specs

Bmw g 310 gs, starting msrp: $5,890.

The BMW G 310 GS is an adventure bike , meaning with some knobby tires, it makes a decent dirt bike for trails as well. With an adventure bike, you get way more travel (7.5 inches) for smoother rides, a more comfortable seat than a dirt bike, and a more upright seating position than dirt or bullet bikes. The 310 GS is one of the cheapest Beamers you can buy new for just $5,890. That being said, it is a Beamer. This won't win any awards for reliability.

The 310 GS makes a comfortable 313cc that won't get you up any hill climbs but will easily take you up to 90 miles per hour. With 71 MPG, it has a range of 213 miles. The digital display shows gas, gear, and speed in bold fashion, and the LED light makes for a great off-road light in bright mode.

2024 BMW G 310 GS Specs

Honda rebel 500, starting msrp: $6,499.

The Rebel 500 is an affordable and comfortable bike that will last you your whole life. It has 471ccs, which won't let you do any wheelies but does get you up to cruising speed sooner than you need. To keep yourself from locking up your brakes (a significant factor in motorcycle crashes), you can and should get the ABS option. The blacked-out bike may mimic a Harley, but the low seat height makes it ideal for women and the height-challenged. It is also surprisingly fitting for full-height people.

The Rebel has been around for years, so used ones aren't hard to find, and a new one will run for just $6,499. The digital cluster is simple and includes a fuel gauge (not included on all motorcycles). Honda’s slip/assist clutch makes shifting easy for the uninitiated, but sadly, this doesn't come with an automatic transmission. The manual is very forgiving, easy to learn, and worth it, in our opinion. This bike is ideal for beginners who don't plan on switching bikes for years to come.

2024 Honda Rebel 500 Specs

These are the best beginner motorcycles money can buy, kawasaki vulcan s, starting msrp: $7,349.

According to their official website, Kawasaki advertises the Vulcan as being able to fit a wide range of people. The 649cc engine has a good kick at low to mid-range for city stops, but it can also get up to 100 mph. For $7,349, it will feel sportier and quicker than other bikes, but it's also reportedly fun to sit on on the freeway! It has one of the most natural seating positions of any bike under $10,000, probably because it's adjustable.

It may look nothing like a beginner's bike, but it is what Kawasaki offers as their entry-level cruiser . If you're not worried about the bike weighing a little more, it is a very forgiving and comfortable ride. ABS is available, features like a windshield and back support are easy to add, and they are a massive plus on long rides.

2024 Kawasaki Vulcan S Specs

Honda nc750x, starting msrp: $9,499.

If there were a contender for the bike on this list that you could buy with your eyes closed, the Honda NC750X would be right up there at the top of that list.

It's easy on the eyes, great for beginners in terms of the riding ergonomics, is affordable enough, has a great ride, and the DCT on it is the cherry on the icing. It even includes riding modes, a windshield, and a low seat height. That the NC750X often gets discounted is a puzzle.

2024 Honda NC750X Specs

Triumph tiger 660, starting msrp: $9,695.

The star of the show here is, of course, Triumph's lovely 3-cylinder engine, but the Tiger 660 is no one-trick pony. This is about as close to ideal for beginners to get on and go on a long trip .

Tack on luggage and load it up, and the excellent tractability of the motor will still pull you along comfortably. You can even add optional extras that will make the journey more comfortable, like additional lighting and heated grips. Hard to fault the Tiger 660, really.

2023 Triumph Tiger 660 Specs

10 best beginner motorcycles money can buy, bmw f 750 gs.

BMW's GS motorcycle lineup is legendary . The F 750 GS is a natural at completing longer journeys in absolute comfort. One of the most important factors is, of course, the seat, and the F 750 GS makes do with one that's ideally suited to road trips.

At 32.1 inches, it's much lower than you'd expect for a bike this size, but if that's not enough, BMW will also sell you a suspension lowering kit and soft seat, bringing the seat height down further to 30.3 inches. In addition to that, it also gets dynamic traction control, ride modes, and adjustable brake and clutch levers, among others. For the money, it's quite a deal.

2023 BMW F 750 GS Specs

Indian scout sixty, starting msrp: $11,749.

The Indian Scout Sixty is one "beginner" bike that will earn you a lot of respect . It starts at $11,749 and is pretty long and wide but isn't necessarily heavy. The wider handlebars give you better in-city control around corners, and ABS is an option. The engine is 1000ccs, the most of any on this list, but not something an average-fit person couldn't handle easily.

While this is more of a luxury option, it allows for things like a windshield (don't discount how useful one of these is after just two hours of 60+ mph wind in your face) and genuine leather saddlebags. The seat is wide, which benefits the narrow-waisted as well as larger people.

2024 Indian Scout Sixty Specs

Energica eva esseesse9+, starting msrp: $16,110.

This electric bike warrants some cautionary tales: First, do not listen to music until you are comfortable with traffic flow and riding defensively! Cars cannot hear you at all, and they can't see you too well either. Also, its range is 143 miles combined, which is not the best for long trips but is still passable with some planning.

With that out of the way, you get an 80% charge in 40 minutes with a fast charge! All you need to do is stop for a meal by a power station, and you're as well off as any ICE bike. The EsseEsse9 has a nice, upright position , but you're also working with a lot of torque, so make sure you take it slow, or you can pop a wheelie. Otherwise, unlike combustion bikes, it's small and simple and won't have any mechanical issues to stump you. The gauge is simple and can tell the range so you won't be left without power.

2020 Energica EVA EsseEsse9+ Specs

(Specs sourced from Bikez )

• Source for features: Respective manufacturers' websites
• Source for technical specifications: Motorcycle Specs, Bikez, WebBikeWorld
• Source for used prices: Cycle Trader