What is the best kind of boat for sailing around the world? I'm thinking it would carry six people.?

Question

Thanks R_Sharp (n U R) So far it's just fiction but I want to make it believable.

Answer 1

Contrary to what some may believe, a sail boat is the perfect choice. The cost of fuel around the world as well as the varying quality of fuel will warrant sails alone. Just get stuck out in the ocean with a broken crank shaft or galled cylinder sleeves and you’ll find out very quickly that the sails are your best option.

Now, as for the size, this will depend on exactly who the six people will be. If I’m taking a long cruise with my wife and kids, I can endure a smaller boat. If I am taking the cruise with other adults, I’ll need a little more space. In fact, everyone will need a little more space. Personally, I wouldn’t want to do a mono-hull much less than about 50’. A catamaran I would be willing to go as small as maybe 42’, but that is just my feelings.

This is not something to take lightly. Long distance cruising requires large amounts of organization and planning. If you are really going to have 6 people on one boat for weeks on end, make sure you can all get along because your friendship will be tested. Everyone will need to be kept busy and I HIGHLY recommend no less than 3 of the people being qualified to pilot the boat. For long stretches over open seas, you will have to have someone at the helm all night long. Get the largest boat you can afford that can still be sailed by 2 people under harsh weather.

I also recommend sloop rigging for the sails. These are the best (IMHO) for ease of operation and repair… AND YOU WILL BE DOING REPAIRS. If you can afford it, a catamaran would also be my first choice for such a voyage. In addition to more living space for Length at Water Line (LWL), you will probably have two small engines. If one engine goes bad, you have the other to putt your way into a port and not have to worry as much about tying off to a mooring ball and using a dingy to get ashore.

If this is your dream, go for it and keep us all updated on how it goes. Best of luck to you and come home safe afterwards.

Answer 2

The best type of boat for sailing around the world is a sail boat. Currently the most popular size is 42. That would fit 6 nd would not be too hard to handle. We chartered a 51 for 7 inn BVI and found that all the gear wa too big. I am 5 foot. The sheets were long and the halyards were heavy. Even the galley was hard to work in. Most round the world sailors are just that sailors. Do take seamansip and navigation courses that include on the water instruction.

Answer 3

Deep hulled, 50 foot or larger. More importantly, all aboard should be experienced sailors, with navigational knowledge. Picking the right time of the year and route would be paramount. Carrying six is not a problem, since only 4 would be sleeping at any one time. Even a 35 foot sloop can usually sleep 6.
Go for a ketch or cutter rigged for more sail area and speed.

Answer 4

R sharp hits the high points quite well...I also answered your other question elsewhere.but being the raging traditionalist I am I forgot the option of a catamaran, for space and privacy and capacity......good point.

While you re dreaming about this, read Cruising World magazine, and start saving your nickles and dimes and come chartering in the US or British Virgin Islands this winter.....dozens of anchorages never more than few hours away, protected waters, and great, safe introduction to see if you and 5 others can actually sail and live together for a week or ten days.....and the anchorages are crowded with sailors going off on or coming back from long trips.....brains to be picked till dawn while you swing at anchor......

Answer 5

Suggested reading Survive the savage sea By Dugal Robertson

Answer 6

A ship is best. Anything built for the open ocean. Certainly not a sailboat.

Answer 7

3D Boat Design Software : http://BoatPlans.NaturallyGo.com/?jOG

Answer 8

A big canoe