With the contemporary world’s hectic scheduling and ever-blurred lines between work and personal life, we all need to find our own sense of escapism – not least for those of you operating in the upper echelons of the corporate world. Perhaps, that’s why the hobby of sailing has become increasingly popular in contemporary times. In 2015, 11.87 million sailing vessels were registered in the United States alone.
Here at Luxury Lifestyle Magazine, though, we’re always keen to ensure that our readers are finding additional ways to enhance their status. Which is why, in our view, you could do a lot worse than combine the relaxing hobby of sailing on the deep blue, with the status symbol of owning your own sailboat.
Think about it, logically. We’re not necessarily advocating owning a small fishing vessel, but properly committing to a luxury sailboat that’s fit not only for relaxing private voyages on long weekends, but also for hosting exclusive events, parties, business meetings and much more. By purchasing your own sailboat, you can scratch that escapist itch, as well as add another string to your bow in the business world. After all, as Ernest Hemingway once wrote, “a man is never lost at sea.”
Not sure where to begin? Don’t worry, Luxury Lifestyle Magazine will be your First Mate as you navigate the choppy waters of purchasing your first sailboat. After all, there are so many variations and sizes available now, alongside modifications and luxury fit-outs, that you want to make sure you purchase the right option for you, personally.
What Type of Sailor Are You?
Perhaps the most important starting point for you as an individual, is to consider which type of sailor you’re likely to be. The plethora of options available in the luxury sailboat market means that manufacturers cater for a vast array of would-be captains. The right boat for you depends on what sort of experience you are seeking.
For example, if you are a quiet sailor that enjoys the solitude of the open water and the freedom that owning your own boat brings, you may only desire a smaller sailboat. In this case, you’re probably looking for a vessel that’s approximately 15 metres and can accommodate between 2 to 6 people. 15-metre boats usually possess two or three cabins and are perfect for traveling in smaller rivers and canals as well as traveling much further distances.
If you have a large family, or simply enjoy the buzz and social capital that comes with entertaining on the water, you obviously need to consider the more grandiose options.
Sailboats of up to 30 or 40 metres would likely be perfect for the more sociable sailor. Vessels of this nature usually have a minimum of three cabins and can sleep more than 10 people.
Sailboat Hulls
Next to consider is the type of hull your sailboat ought to have, as this dictates how effective it will be for different types of functions. For example, flat-bottom hulls are perfect for people who like to fish or travel around on calm, small bodies of water. The flat-bottomed shape provides enhanced stability in waters of this nature, but have diminishing returns in other bodies of water. Conversely, a v-shaped hull is all about speed. The ‘v’ shape allows the sailboat to aerodynamically cut through the top of the water, which is why you’ll generally see this style employed in small boats, or powerboats, for the thrill-seeking sailor. Somewhere in-between are the round-bottomed and multi-hulled options, which are more versatile in their use.
Trust your gut
Only you will know if a ship is truly right for you, and sometimes, that involves listening to your heart, as well as your head. Purchasing a proper, luxury sailboat is an occasion you want to be proud of, and, ideally, it will be a conversation-starter among your friends. You want something that reflects your personality, your style, and your wealth.
When engaging with a vendor, make sure you’re armed with information on the market. Once you’ve identified your dream-boat, scour the market and check the pricing of similar vessels in your region – there can often be quite a bit of negotiation involved in the procurement of a sailboat, so don’t sell yourself short. You have an entrepreneurial reputation to protect, after all.
Take the plunge
When purchasing a sailboat, it’s perhaps worth remembering that no two vessels are the same, and we can’t emphasise enough, that knowing yourself, and your sailboat’s purpose, is key to ensuring you acquire the right boat for your needs. Size and hull shape are the two key elements to ensure that your vessel is best-equipped for your needs, but also pay a good amount of attention to condition, fit-out, style and design. After all, there’s absolutely no point in cutting corners when investing in your dream sailboat.
Feel like you’re ready to take the plunge and start seeking out your vehicle for the high seas? Why not check out these tall ships for sale.
