Sailboat Blog

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Aug 22, 2025

The Ultimate Guide to Sailboats: Sloops, Ketches & More

A comprehensive guide to sailboat types. Learn the differences between monohulls and multihulls, sloops, cutters, ketches, yawls and schooners.

Continue reading "The Ultimate Guide to Sailboats: Sloops, Ketches & More"

Aug 22, 2025

Understanding Cruising Catamarans: A Comprehensive Sailor's Guide

As an RYA 'Offshore Yachtmaster' & member of the YJA, I share expert insights on what you need to know about cruising catamarans. Discover key considerations on accommodation, performance, & maintenance.

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Aug 22, 2025

Unstayed Rigs & Cat Ketch Sailboats: A Sailor's Guide to Why They Work

Explore the unique advantages and performance characteristics of unstayed rigs, including cat ketches and single-masted catboats.

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Aug 21, 2025

Does a Ketch Sailboat Make a Good Cruising Boat?

Discover why a ketch sailboat is an exceptional cruising vessel. This comprehensive guide covers their advantages, sailing performance, and how they offer a manageable, versatile experience for short-handed crews.

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Aug 21, 2025

Cutter Rig vs. Solent Rig: The Ultimate Guide for Offshore Cruising

Which is better for offshore sailing? This guide provides an in-depth comparison of the cutter rig and the solent rig, covering everything from sail handling and performance to technical pros & cons.

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Aug 20, 2025

Why the Cutter Rig Sailboat is the Best Choice for Offshore Cruising

An experienced offshore sailor and RYA Yachtmaster shares insights on why the versatile cutter rig is the top choice for safe, comfortable, and efficient long-distance cruising.

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Aug 11, 2025

Sailing Sloop Rigs for Cruising: Are They the Best for You?

An experienced RYA Offshore Yachtmaster and YJA member breaks down the sailing sloop rig. Discover if a sloop is the ideal choice for your cruising ambitions by understanding the types, advantages, disadvantages, and costs.

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Aug 10, 2025

Trimarans vs. Catamarans: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Choosing between a trimaran & catamaran for your next cruising yacht? This guide, from an RYA Offshore Yachtmaster, breaks down the key differences in design, performance, and liveability to help you make the right choice for your sailing style.

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Aug 10, 2025

Rival Yachts: A Guide to These Legendary British Bluewater Cruisers

Explore the legacy of Rival Yachts, from the design philosophy of founder Peter Brett to the key models like the Rival 34, 36, 38 & 41. A complete guide for sailors and liveaboards.

Continue reading "Rival Yachts: A Guide to These Legendary British Bluewater Cruisers"

Aug 09, 2025

Running Rigging Explained: Performance Trim & Material Choice

Go beyond the basics of running rigging. Our guide for experienced sailors delves into advanced trim techniques, material choices & safety considerations.

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Aug 08, 2025

Essential Sailing Knots & Splicing: The Ultimate Guide

Master essential sailing knots & splicing with our comprehensive guide. Learn their uses, history, and the anatomy of a perfect knot.

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Aug 08, 2025

Mastering the Clove Hitch: Your Go-To Knot for Sailors

Learn the clove hitch, the versatile knot for sailors. Our guide covers how to tie it, its best uses for fenders & mooring, and expert tips.

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Aug 08, 2025

Master the Sheet Bend Knot: Your Guide to Joining Ropes & Lines

Learn how to tie the sheet bend—the essential knot for joining lines of different sizes. Master this critical skill for any sailing adventure.

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Aug 08, 2025

Mastering the Reef Knot for Sailing & Beyond

Learn how to tie a proper reef knot for sailing with our simple guide. Discover its key applications & crucial safety tips to avoid a dangerous mistake.

Continue reading "Mastering the Reef Knot for Sailing & Beyond"

Aug 08, 2025

How to Tie a Bowline: The Sailor's "King of Knots" Explained

Master the essential bowline knot with our easy-to-follow guide. Learn the "rabbit and the hole" method, when to use it, & why it’s the most trusted knot on the water.

Continue reading "How to Tie a Bowline: The Sailor's "King of Knots" Explained"