Best Boats For Circumnavigating The Globe

There are many factors to consider when choosing a boat to sail around the world. The size of the boat is an important factor, as boats that are too large can be difficult to operate and maintain, while boats that are too small may not have enough space or storage. The type of hull is also a key consideration, with catamarans offering more interior space and stability but being more sensitive to weight and prone to overturning in high waves. The material of the hull is another factor, with aluminium being lighter and more durable but more expensive, and steel being strong but susceptible to corrosion. It is also important to consider the fittings and safety equipment on board, such as a satellite phone, GPS, and lifeboat. Finally, the itinerary and budget for the trip should be carefully planned, taking into account factors such as weather conditions, visa requirements, and boat maintenance.

Catamarans vs. Monohulls: Catamarans are faster and more stable, but monohulls are faster upwind and cheaper

When it comes to sailing around the world, there are two main types of boats that people consider: catamarans and monohulls. While both have their pros and cons, understanding the differences between the two is crucial in choosing the right boat for your needs. Here is a detailed comparison between catamarans and monohulls to help you make an informed decision.

Catamarans vs. Monohulls:

Speed and Performance:

Catamarans are generally faster than monohulls, especially on downwind runs, reaches, and broad reaches. They can reach impressive speeds and are about 20% faster than monohulls. This speed advantage allows catamarans to outrun bad weather and arrive at destinations quicker. However, monohulls have the upper hand when sailing upwind as they can point higher into the wind. Catamarans may need to sail at a slightly wider angle to the wind and cover more distance to reach the same destination.

Stability:

One of the biggest advantages of catamarans is their superior stability. Catamarans have two hulls, providing a very stable platform when sailing. They don't heel over like monohulls, reducing crew fatigue and seasickness. The stable platform makes sail changes and reefing safer and easier for the crew. On the other hand, monohulls have a narrower beam and rely on lead ballast for stability, resulting in more rolling and pitching.

Comfort:

Catamarans offer significantly more comfort, both while sailing and at anchor. The lack of heeling and reduced motion on a catamaran make for a smoother and more enjoyable experience. At anchor, catamarans provide a wide and stable platform, eliminating the rolling motion commonly associated with monohulls. The increased comfort reduces crew fatigue and enhances overall well-being.

Living Space:

Catamarans typically offer more living space, including larger salons, galleys, and cockpits. The cabins on catamarans are often more spacious, providing greater privacy and separation for guests. The layout of a catamaran allows for better flow-through ventilation, reducing the need for air conditioning during daylight hours.

Safety:

Catamarans are considered safer by some due to their inherent stability and buoyancy. They are less prone to capsizing and are challenging to sink, even if holed. Monohulls, on the other hand, can get rolled in heavy seas but usually right themselves due to their heavy lead keel. However, a capsized catamaran will remain upside down and will not self-right, which is a significant concern for some sailors.

Cost:

Monohulls are generally more affordable than catamarans. They are cheaper to build, buy, and maintain. The cost of getting into a catamaran is significantly higher, which can be a significant factor when considering a purchase. Additionally, docking fees for catamarans are often higher due to their wider beam.

Manoeuvrability:

Monohulls excel in manoeuvrability and responsiveness. They are faster to respond to the helm and can tack more sharply than catamarans. Catamarans have a wider turning circle and may require more space to manoeuvre, especially in close quarters. However, catamarans benefit from having two engines and rudders, making docking easier in many cases.

Suitability for Beginners:

Monohulls are generally considered more suitable for beginners. Catamarans, with their superior speed and stability, can be more challenging to manoeuvre for novice sailors. Monohulls provide a more traditional sailing experience and are often preferred by experienced sailors.

In conclusion, both catamarans and monohulls have their strengths and weaknesses. Catamarans offer speed, stability, and comfort, making them ideal for long-distance cruising and living aboard. On the other hand, monohulls are more affordable, manoeuvrable, and better suited for sailing upwind. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your specific needs, budget, and sailing experience.

Boat size: Smaller boats are easier to handle, but bigger boats are faster, more stable, and can carry more

When choosing a boat to sail around the world, there are several factors to consider, including budget, crew size, and personal preferences. One of the most important considerations is the size of the boat. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, as it depends on individual needs and circumstances, understanding the advantages and disadvantages of different boat sizes can help in making an informed decision.

Smaller boats are generally easier to handle and manoeuvre, especially in close quarters or during challenging weather conditions. They have less momentum when moving, smaller sails and loads, and can often be managed by one or two people. Additionally, small boats are more affordable to buy and operate, and they can access smaller waterways that larger boats cannot. The physical proximity to the water and the simplicity of smaller boats can offer a unique and enjoyable boating experience.

On the other hand, bigger boats have their own set of advantages. They tend to be faster due to their longer waterline length, which increases the theoretical top speed. This speed advantage can make a significant difference when crossing long distances, helping to dodge unfavourable weather conditions and reducing the need for extensive stores. Larger boats also provide greater stability, especially monohulls, as they weigh more and have a larger keel, resulting in a more comfortable journey through waves.

The increased size of bigger boats allows for more storage capacity, accommodating more water, fuel, food, and personal gear. They also offer more living space, making them ideal for larger groups or families. Additionally, bigger boats can accommodate more complex systems, providing greater comfort and capability. However, this complexity can also make them more challenging to handle and more expensive to buy and maintain.

Ultimately, the decision between a smaller or bigger boat depends on various factors, such as budget, crew size, and personal preferences. Smaller boats excel in ease of handling and affordability, while bigger boats offer speed, stability, and increased storage and living space. Considering these factors, along with individual needs and sailing style, will help in choosing the right boat size for sailing around the world.

Boat type: Steel boats are impact-resistant, aluminium boats are strong and lightweight, fibreglass boats are affordable and low-maintenance, and wooden boats are rare

When it comes to sailing around the world, there are several boat types to consider, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a detailed overview of four common boat types: steel boats, aluminium boats, fibreglass boats, and wooden boats.

Steel boats are known for their strength and security, making them a popular choice for those seeking a sturdy vessel. They are highly impact-resistant, with the ability to withstand collisions and navigate through icy waters with ease. Steel is an "orthotropic" material, meaning it possesses equal strength in all directions, making it exceptionally durable. While steel boats may be heavier than other options, they offer a comfortable and smooth ride, providing a sense of security for those on board. Their robust construction also makes them ideal for customisation, allowing for unique features such as clipper bows, canoe sterns, and deep fin keels. However, steel boats require careful maintenance due to the risk of corrosion and rust, and older steel boats may be devalued due to these concerns.

Aluminium boats offer a combination of strength and lightweight construction. They are known for their durability and ability to withstand impact, similar to steel boats. Aluminium is a lightweight material, making it comparable to fibreglass in terms of performance without the hassle of deck leaks. However, aluminium boats require extra care to maintain cosmetic maintenance, as they don't hold paint very well. Additionally, aluminium boats need to be monitored for potential issues like battery corrosion and the growth of organisms on the hull, which can lead to leaks.

Fibreglass boats are a popular choice for those seeking an affordable and low-maintenance option. Fibreglass is known for its affordability, making it a cost-effective way to get out on the water. While fibreglass boats may not be as strong as steel or aluminium, they are still capable of sailing around the world and offer good performance, especially for smaller crews. However, one drawback of fibreglass is the potential for deck leaks, which can be a common issue that requires ongoing maintenance.

Wooden boats are the classic choice for boating enthusiasts, offering a blend of traditional design and modern technology. Wooden boats have been favoured by kings and movie stars for their prestige and elegant craftsmanship. Modern wooden boats often feature the latest engines and hull designs, combining the beauty of classic materials with contemporary functionality. Wooden boats are known for providing a soft and comfortable ride due to the natural properties of the wood. However, wooden boats are becoming rarer, as other materials like fibreglass and aluminium have gained popularity.

Hull type: Long keels are reliable and protective, but short keels are more manoeuvrable

When it comes to sailing around the world, the type of hull you choose is an important consideration. Long keels and short keels each have their own advantages and disadvantages that can significantly impact your journey.

Long keels are known for their reliability and protection. They provide greater directional stability, keeping your boat on course with less effort. This is because they have a longer straight plane, which reduces leeway and improves the boat's ability to hold its course. Long keels are also advantageous if you run aground, as they spread the load over a larger area, reducing the likelihood of damage. Additionally, the longer keel acts as a heavy ballast, providing more stability and stiffness to the boat, allowing it to move more comfortably through waves and at anchor.

On the other hand, short keels offer greater manoeuvrability. They are more common in modern yacht designs and are often referred to as fin keels. Short keels have less drag, resulting in reduced leeway and faster sailing speeds. They also allow for better sail efficiency, taking advantage of modern sail plans and materials. However, short keels have less directional stability, so your boat may wander more under sail and require more frequent course corrections.

When choosing between long and short keels, it's important to consider your sailing experience, the weather conditions you'll encounter, and your personal preferences. Long keels are reliable and provide a smoother ride, while short keels offer more speed and agility. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your specific needs and sailing style.

Additionally, it's worth noting that the hull type is just one aspect of choosing a boat for sailing around the world. Other factors to consider include the size of the boat, the number of crew members, your budget, and the level of comfort and stability you desire.

Boat brand: Examples of boat brands for sailing around the world include Nauticat, Hallberg-Rassy, Garcia Yachts, and Contest

When it comes to sailing around the world, there are various boat brands and types to consider, each with its own unique features and advantages. Let's take a closer look at Nauticat, Hallberg-Rassy, Garcia Yachts, and Contest as examples of boat brands that can provide a safe and enjoyable global sailing experience.

Nauticat

Nauticat is a well-known boat brand with a rich history that began in 1961 when the Finnish yachtsman and engineer Pentti Siltala founded a family shipyard. Over the years, Nauticat has built a range of sailing yachts, motorsailers, and traditional sailboats, with models ranging from 33 to 53 feet in length. One of their signature features is the enclosed wheelhouse (pilothouse), which offers protection from the elements while providing excellent visibility. Nauticat yachts are known for their seaworthiness, comfort, and habitability, making them well-suited for long-distance cruising. The company prioritises safety and durability, utilising state-of-the-art technology and traditional methods to create a reliable sailing experience.

Hallberg-Rassy

Hallberg-Rassy is a Swedish boat brand that has built a reputation for sturdy construction, well-protected cockpits, and powerful engines. Their yachts are designed with comfort and easy handling in mind, making them a popular choice among sailors. Hallberg-Rassy offers a range of models, including the Hallberg-Rassy 69, their largest and grandest yacht, and the Hallberg-Rassy 40C, a modern design that upholds the brand's high standards. Their yachts are easily recognisable, with a distinct style that stands the test of time. Hallberg-Rassy also has a separate company, Hallberg-Rassy Parts AB, dedicated to providing original spare parts and accessories for their yachts worldwide.

Garcia Yachts

Garcia Yachts specialises in aluminium blue water cruising sailing boats, offering models such as the Garcia Exploration 45, 52, and 60. These boats are designed for adventurers seeking to explore remote regions of the planet in comfort and style. The Garcia Exploration series combines radical approaches with luxurious features, ensuring that sailors can explore without compromising their comfort. Additionally, Garcia Yachts offers the Explocat 52, a unique combination of a catamaran and exploration boat, providing a new way to discover the world.

Contest

Contest yachts, designed and built in the Netherlands, are known for their sleek lines, exceptional performance, and luxurious interiors. While Contest offers a range of models, their blue water cruisers are particularly well-suited for sailing around the world. These yachts are designed with strength, stability, and comfort in mind, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. Contest yachts are often equipped with advanced technology and innovative features, enhancing the sailing experience. The brand's attention to detail, craftsmanship, and focus on quality have earned them a reputation for building world-class sailing vessels.

When choosing a boat brand for sailing around the world, it's important to consider factors such as size, comfort, performance, and reliability. Each brand has its own unique offerings, so it's essential to research and select a boat that aligns with your specific needs and sailing goals.

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