Motorsailer Sailboats to Purchase: Top Picks for 2023
Motorsailer sailboats provide the best of both worlds for sailing enthusiasts who love the feeling of being powered by the wind, but also want the ability to rely on a fuel-efficient engine when necessary. These versatile vessels are designed with both sails and motors, offering the perfect combination of performance, comfort, and ease of use for a wide range of sailing adventures.
When considering the purchase of a motorsailer, there is a broad range of models and price points available, from affordable options around $9,600, up to luxury yachts priced at nearly $11 million (YachtWorld). Regardless of your budget, there are several key factors to consider when choosing the right motorsailer for your needs, including size, style, and performance capabilities.
Since motorsailers prioritize both sailing and motoring abilities, they come in various designs to suit specific preferences. For example, some models may focus on maximizing sailing performance, while others might put more emphasis on motoring efficiency and comfort at sea. It's essential to understand your personal preferences and requirements before making a purchasing decision, ensuring that your chosen motorsailer will provide the ultimate sailing experience.
Types of Motorsailer Sailboats
Motorsailer sailboats offer a versatile combination of sailing and motoring abilities, making them an excellent choice for those looking for flexibility and convenience. There are several types of motorsailer sailboats to consider when buying one.
The most common motorsailer sailboat is the sloop, which is simple to operate and versatile in various sailing conditions. The sloop features a single mast and two sails, making it an easy-to-handle option for many sailors (Life of Sailing).
Catamarans are another popular choice for motorsailer sailboats. With their two hulls, catamaran motorsailers offer greater stability, spacious living quarters, and excellent performance under both sail and power. Their unique design provides the advantage of reduced drag, resulting in greater efficiency and speed.
Ketches and schooners are other types of motorsailer sailboats that feature multiple masts. Ketches have two masts, with the aft mast being smaller than the mainmast. Schooners, on the other hand, have at least two masts, with the aft mast being taller. Both ketches and schooners allow for better sail management and improved performance in various conditions.
Besides these common types of motorsailer sailboats, other variations exist, such as pocket cruisers, displacement hulls, and shoal-draft vessels (Life of Sailing). Pocket cruisers are compact yet capable of long-distance cruising, while displacement hulls are designed for efficient use of engine power. Shoal-draft vessels, as the name suggests, have shallow drafts, making them ideal for navigating shallow waters.
When selecting a motorsailer sailboat, consider factors such as the desired sailing performances, living space requirements, and intended usage to guide your decision-making process. Each type of motorsailer sailboat offers distinct advantages and drawbacks, so take the time to research and compare various models to find the best fit for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When considering a motorsailer sailboat for purchase, there are several key features to keep in mind. These features will ensure the boat meets your sailing and motoring needs, while providing comfort and functionality.
One important aspect to look for is the hull design. Motorsailers can have different hull types such as monohull, displacement, catamaran, semi-displacement, among others, which affect performance and stability both under sail and motor (YachtWorld).
The keel type is another important feature. Traditional motorsailers based on fishing boats often have long keels, which provide excellent directional stability at sea but can be less responsive under sail and more difficult to manoeuvre in harbour (boats.com).
Sail area and engine power are two crucial elements for motorsailers. Most sailboats have an auxiliary engine, while motorsailers should have a more powerful engine to achieve better speed and fuel efficiency when motoring (Life of Sailing). It's also essential to consider the sail area, ensuring that the boat can perform well under sail.
Lastly, don't forget about the construction materials and build quality. A well-built motorsailer should have a strong hull made of materials such as fiberglass with additional layers and resin in load-bearing areas, as well as reinforced bottom structures for superior strength (PassageMaker).
To summarize, when selecting a motorsailer sailboat, prioritize hull design and keel type, sail area and engine power, and construction materials and build quality. Each of these aspects will greatly impact the overall performance, versatility, and durability of the vessel.
Top Motorsailer Brands
When it comes to motorsailer sailboats, there are several well-known and respected brands to consider. Some of the top motorsailer brands include Custom, Nauticat, Beneteau, Fisher, and Jeanneau.(source) Each of these manufacturers has a proven track record of designing and crafting high-quality motorsailer sailing vessels with various propulsion systems and fuel options.
Custom creates bespoke motorsailer sailboats tailored to the needs and preferences of each owner. Their models often feature elegant designs that incorporate the latest technology and best materials available.
Nauticat is a Finnish brand renowned for its comfortable and seaworthy motorsailers. The Nauticat 331, for example, is based on their iconic Nauticat 33 model, delivering a reliable and practical sailing experience.
Beneteau is a French company with a long history of producing sailboats, including motorsailers. Their innovative designs offer the perfect balance between sailing performance and motor-powered capabilities, combining luxury and efficiency.
Fisher specializes in rugged, sturdy motorsailers designed for long-distance cruising in various weather conditions. Their boats often feature traditional, classic lines, making them a popular choice among sailors who appreciate timeless designs.
Jeanneau, another leading French boat builder, offers a wide range of sailboats, including some attractive motorsailer options. Known for their innovation, quality, and performance, Jeanneau brings together style and functionality in their motorsailer sailboats.
New vs. Used Motorsailers
When considering a motorsailer sailboat, prospective buyers have the option to choose between new and used boats. Each choice comes with its unique set of advantages and drawbacks.
New Motorsailers:
Purchasing a new motorsailer offers the advantage of having the latest technology, design, and features. Typically, new boats have a manufacturer's warranty, which gives buyers peace of mind regarding potential issues that may arise. Additionally, customization options for a new boat give buyers the flexibility to tailor their motorsailer to their specific needs and preferences. However, new boats often come with a higher price tag. Pricing for new motorsailers will depend on the model, size, and brand of the boat. YachtWorld provides a comprehensive list of available motorsailers for sale, with pricing ranging from $9,600 for smaller, simpler vessels to $10,981,340 for high-end, luxurious motorsailers.
Used Motorsailers:
In contrast, used motorsailers generally come at a lower price point, making them more budget-friendly. Experienced boat owners may find it easier to upgrade or modify a pre-owned boat. However, the condition of the boat and its equipment may be a concern. A thorough survey and inspection will help identify any issues or necessary repairs. Buyers can find used boats on various platforms such as Boat Trader or YATCO, which offer an extensive range of used motorsailers in different locations and at varying prices.
When making a decision between purchasing a new or used motorsailer, potential buyers should take into account their budget, desired features, and personal preferences. Researching different types of motorsailers, reading reviews, and comparing prices on YachtWorld, Boat Trader, and YATCO can help shoppers make a well-informed decision that best meets their needs and expectations.
Budgeting and Financing
When looking to purchase a Motorsailer Sailboat, it's important to consider your budget and financing options. Motorsailer sailboats are available for a range of prices from $9,600 on the lower-cost segment of yachts all the way up to $10,981,340 for the most luxurious yachts (YachtWorld). It's crucial to determine how much you're willing to spend and if you need financing to make the purchase.
Before choosing a specific boat, it's necessary to take into consideration additional costs such as maintenance, insurance, docking fees, fuel, and other expenses associated with owning a sailboat. Create a monthly budget that accounts for these ongoing costs in order to make an informed decision.
If you require financing, lenders will assess your credit history and liquidity to determine your eligibility for a boat loan. Boat financing lenders typically use a percentage to evaluate how well you're managing your finances and if you can truly afford to repay the loan amount (YachtWorld). Ensure you have a solid credit score and demonstrate your ability to make the monthly repayments on the loan.
When acquiring financing, it's recommended to compare offers from multiple lenders. This can help you find the best possible loan terms and interest rates suited to your financial situation. Moreover, keep in mind that some lenders may offer specialized boat loans that cater specifically to sailboat purchases.
Where to Buy
When looking for Motorsailer Sailboats to purchase, there are several online platforms where you can find a wide range of options to suit your preferences and budget. One of the most popular websites to find Motorsailer Sailboats for sale is YachtWorld. Here, you can find boats with prices ranging from $9,600 up to $10,981,340 for the most luxurious yachts.
Another reliable platform to browse and buy Motorsailer Sailboats is boats.com. This website features Motorsailer Sailboats ideal for overnight cruising and day sailing, varying in length from 23ft to 143ft and carrying 4 to 29 passengers. The average price of a Motorsailer Sailboat on boats.com is $140,843, with 31 new and 410 used boats available for purchase.
Boat Trader is another excellent choice for buying Motorsailer Sailboats from dealers. The platform offers a variety of boats, including detailed information about prices, photos, and locations. Additionally, if you prefer to buy from private sellers, you can visit Boat Trader's listings for Motorsailer Sailboats for sale by owner.
Finally, for those who are specifically looking for pre-owned Motorsailer Sailboats, Sailboat Listings is a resourceful website where you can find sailboats for sale by owner. This platform focuses on listing used boats, allowing buyers to find more affordable options that still fulfill their sailing needs.
Conclusion
Motorsailer sailboats offer versatility and practicality to sailing enthusiasts. These vessels combine the advantages of both motor and sail propulsion, allowing for increased speed and fuel efficiency. Various models and designs are available, catering to different preferences and budgets.
When considering a motorsailer for purchase, factors such as fuel consumption, cruising speed, and overall performance should be taken into account. An economical cruise is typically achieved at around 7 knots and 1500 rpm, providing a balance between speed and fuel efficiency.
Prices for motorsailer sailboats vary significantly, with options available from as low as $9,600 to the more luxurious models priced up to $10,981,340, according to YachtWorld.
Lastly, it is essential to research and compare various makes and models before making a decision. Potential buyers can explore listings through online platforms like Boat Trader and boats.com. With careful consideration, interested parties can find a motorsailer sailboat that best suits their needs, ensuring an enjoyable and satisfying sailing experience.