Sailing on a small sailboat means enjoying the sea and the coastline with ease while reducing financial constraints, without ruling out the horizon. Here are the 10 best sailboats under 7 meters, according to us.
Sailing on a sailboat under 7 meters offers much more freedom than on a larger vessel. Owners of small sailboats will all tell you the same. These compact yet seaworthy boats are perfect for coastal cruising, solo outings, small crews, and even more ambitious journeys. Their maneuverability, low maintenance costs, and accessibility make them stand out in the secondhand market.
Here is a selection of ten small sailboats that have made history, recognized for their build quality and ability to handle the seas, while remaining simple to maneuver.
Folkboat: The Timeless Classic
Designed in 1942, the Folkboat is an iconic reference among seaworthy sailboats. This Nordic sloop is renowned for its sturdiness and ability to sail offshore despite its small size. With its long and slender hull, it provides exceptional seakeeping qualities. It remains the most-built sailboat in the world today, with a very active owner association.
Strengths:
- Excellent sea-handling capabilities.
- Ideal for long coastal voyages and adventurous cruises.
- Strong user community.
Points to Check:
- Condition of the wood for traditional versions.
- Wear on the standing and running rigging.
Specifications:
- Overall Length (LOA): 7.64 m
- Beam: 2.20 m
- Draft: 1.20 m
- Weight: 2,050 kg
First 210: Modern Versatility
This small cruiser from Bénéteau, the First 210 (and its evolutions, such as the First 21.7), is known for its speed, seaworthiness, and surprising habitability for its size. Likely one of the best sailboats of its generation in its size category, this FINOT design is suitable for both racing and coastal cruising.
Strengths:
- Excellent sailing performance.
- Bright and optimized interior.
- Trailerable thanks to its lifting keel.
Points to Check:
- Lifting keel mechanism.
- Condition of the sails.
Specifications:
- Overall Length (LOA): 6.40 m
- Beam: 2.48 m
- Draft: 0.70 to 1.80 m
- Weight: 1,210 kg
Surprise: The Racing Champion
Created in 1977 by Archambault and designed by Michel Joubert, the Surprise is a racing-cruiser sailboat renowned for its performance and simplicity. Ideal for sporty outings or fast cruising, it has left its mark on sailing history.
Strengths:
- Generous and efficient sail plan.
- Sturdy and well-built.
- Handles well in challenging conditions.
Points to Check:
- Deck deformations (often under stress).
- Wear and attachment of the keel.
Specifications:
- Overall Length (LOA): 7.65 m
- Beam: 2.48 m
- Draft: 1.50 m
- Weight: 1,200 kg
Catalina 22: The American Favorite
Launched in the 1970s, this American sailboat is one of the most-sold small cruisers worldwide (second only to the Folkboat). Simple, reliable, and economical, it is especially appreciated for relaxed sailing.
Strengths:
- Accessible and easy to sail.
- Comfortable interior for its size.
- Widely available on the secondhand market.
Points to Check:
- Condition of the pivoting centerboard.
- Moisture in the hull and deck.
Specifications:
- Overall Length (LOA): 6.60 m
- Beam: 2.34 m
- Draft: 0.70 to 1.20 m
- Weight: 1,150 kg
Etap 20: The Unsinkable One
Known for its safety, the Etap 20 is an unsinkable sailboat thanks to its double-hull construction. Suitable for family coastal cruising, this sailboat from the renowned Belgian yard remains performant despite its compact size.
Strengths:
- Enhanced safety (unsinkability).
- Well-thought-out layout.
- Excellent stability.
Points to Check:
- Joints between the double hulls.
- Condition of the portholes.
Specifications:
- Overall Length (LOA): 6.65 m
- Beam: 2.45 m
- Draft: 1.20 m
- Weight: 1,200 kg
Dehler 25: The Sporty Cruiser
This German sailboat combines comfort and performance. With its lifting keel, it allows access to shallow areas while providing solid sailing qualities.
Strengths:
- Spacious and bright interior.
- Trailerable thanks to its lifting keel.
- Good speed at all points of sail.
Points to Check:
- Lifting keel mechanism.
- Waterproofing of the keel housing.
Specifications:
- Overall Length (LOA): 7.50 m
- Beam: 2.50 m
- Draft: 0.60 to 1.40 m
- Weight: 2,200 kg
Crabber 24: Traditional Charm
The Crabber 24 is a neo-classic sailboat evoking traditional English fishing boats. Ideal for relaxed cruising and peaceful coastal exploration.
Strengths:
- Traditional aesthetics.
- Comfortable for coastal cruises.
- Easy to handle.
Points to Check:
- Condition of the wood and varnish.
- Aging of the sails.
Specifications:
- Overall Length (LOA): 7.32 m
- Beam: 2.44 m
- Draft: 0.76 to 1.50 m
- Weight: 2,300 kg
Django 670: Modernity Meets Performance
This modern small cruiser from France is fast and stable. Designed for the joy of sailing, it appeals to both racing enthusiasts and coastal cruisers.
Strengths:
- Modern and efficient design.
- Functional and bright interior.
- Excellent stability.
Points to Check:
- Lifting keel system.
- Condition of electronic equipment.
Specifications:
- Overall Length (LOA): 6.70 m
- Beam: 2.50 m
- Draft: 0.70 to 1.50 m
- Weight: 1,500 kg
Maxus 22: Efficient Simplicity
This modern Polish sailboat is compact and comfortable. Perfect for families, it offers enjoyable sailing even in strong winds.
Strengths:
- Good balance under sail.
- Modular interior.
- Widely available on the market.
Points to Check:
- Condition of the interior finishes.
- Wear on the sails.
Specifications:
- Overall Length (LOA): 6.35 m
- Beam: 2.48 m
- Draft: 0.30 to 1.25 m
- Weight: 1,250 kg
Wharram Tiki 26: The Minimalist Catamaran
The Tiki 26 is a small catamaran designed for adventurers. Light, simple, and robust, it can sail long distances while offering minimal living space.
Strengths:
- Excellent stability.
- Perfect for exploring shallow areas.
- Potential for amateur construction.
Points to Check:
- Assembly of the cross beams.
- Condition of the hulls.
Specifications:
- Overall Length (LOA): 7.90 m
- Beam: 4.40 m
- Draft: 0.50 m
- Weight: 450 kg