Re: Any recommendations for a small inexpensive sailboat?
My sailing experience consists of going out with various friends in an assortment of sailboats from 16 to 24 feet in length. Since I only do this once or twice a year, I can't say that I've ever developed much expertise at this.
I would like to improve my sailing skills, and would like to find a small used sailboat that one person can easily handle, but can carry two to four people if necessary. It should have a fiberglass hull and not require a lot of maintenance.
Does anyone have any suggestions for a particular model of boat to look for?
On the sporty/racing side would be boats like the 420, and up, on the leisure side would be the Capri 14.2 and up.
The boats mentioned are open 14' daysailors that are the minimum size to carry four persons. They are easily handled by one person, both to launch and sail.
As you get into larger craft - 16' and over - you begin to need two people to help rig and launch. Though single-handing is certainly possible for larger trailer-sailors, it's more convenient with two when lengths rise above 20'.
Prices start around $8,000 new, $2,000 used. Of course, "deals" can be found, especially if you don't mind fixing up or refitting an older boat.
Look for a small boat sail course. Most are for keel boats around 25' and up, but you can find the Capri used in some Sailing Club sponsored courses. Any hands-on course is good and don't worry about the training boat being an exact match to what you will be getting.
Lots of credible organizations hold classes -
American Red Cross
ASA
US Sailing
Local Boat Clubs
some Municipalities
Cost ranges from $200 to $1000 a course, depending on the time spent on the water and boat used. Check around your area, Spring classes will fill quickly.
Some sailing schools come with boat rental privileges for graduates. That might be a way to experience different boats before you make a purchase decision.