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14 Great Pocket Cruisers in 2023

• By Victor Tan
• Updated: July 20, 2023

Pocket cruisers and mini yachts are generally vessels under 50 feet in length overall, and can include express cruiser designs, flybridge yachts as well as either monohull or catamaran hull forms. They are cruising boats easily handled by a small, or even shorthanded, crew. Pocket cruisers generally have wave-taming hull designs and have the ability to take on sporty seas, offer comfortable accommodations belowdecks with one or two staterooms for extended voyages, “homelike amenities,” and the ability to cruise as slowly or as quickly as an owner desires with inboard- and outboard-power options. These pocket-cruising boats have the range for longer voyages , can pull up in skinny water at the sandbar thanks to shallow drafts, and head over the horizon where cruising adventure awaits. Pocket cruisers are true multitasking yachts. When it comes to family and couples cruising, it’s hard to beat a well-built and well-equipped and pocket cruiser.

Best Cruising Boats Under 50-Feet

The following 14 pocket cruisers and mini yachts are all vessels we’ve seen, been aboard, and tested. They are listed in no particular order.

• Hood 35 LM: high-tech, family-friendly pocket cruiser
• Galeon Yachts 375 GTO: mid-size boat with plenty of below-deck space
• Aquila 42: sleek power catamaran ready to entertain
• Azimut Verve 42 : small, yet mighty yacht ready for open water
• Hinckley Yachts 35: luxury picnic cruiser with range
• Beneteau Gran Turismo 45: sleek cruising yacht with all the amenities
• Solaris Power 48 Open: eye-catching power yacht with 360-degree views
• Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS: luxury cruiser yacht with powerful outboard options
• Back Cove 34O: modern outboard power combined with classic Downeast styling
• Picnic Boat 40: speedy and fuel-efficient vessel with great looks
• Aquila 36: comfortably seat up to 20 guests for fun on the salt
• Boston Whaler 350 Realm: multitasker built for fishing and entertaining
• MJM 35z: sporty, aesthetically pleasing, cruising-conscious features and elegant lines
• Greenline 39: sturdy-looking lines and environmentally-friendly power

When Android co-founder, Rich Miner, wanted a new family-friendly pocket cruiser , he turned to a custom-penned C.W. Hood design and a Lyman-Morse-built 35-footer, which has a timeless Down East profile matched to seriously modern technology under the hood.

This yacht looks like a traditional, cold-molded Down East dayboat, but actually, it has everything, from Hamilton HJX Series water-jet drives to a planned Sea Machines autonomous command-and-control system . Top speed: 40-plus knots.

Quick Specifications

Galeon yachts 375 gto.

Even the remnants of Hurricane Ian, couldn’t dissuade the Galeon Yacht 375 GTO from its cruising mission. The small yacht’s wave-splitting hull form is paired to torque-filled 600 hp Mercury Verado outboards , giving this fun-in-the-sun boat a 47-knot top hop.

The 375 GTO is a speedster, to be sure, but it’s also so much more. Just about every aspect of the main deck seating is transformable and multifunction, from the aft seating to the alfresco dining abaft the helm, and beyond. It also has a family-size and eminently cruise-worthy belowdecks space for four guests, all while providing a foredeck entertaining lounge too.

The Galeon Yachts 375 GTO ticks all the boxes for an easy-to-handle and sporty cruiser.

Aquila 42 Yacht Power Catamaran

Following the success of its 44-, 54- and 70-foot power catamaran models, Aquila has launched the stable-as-a-table, owner-operator-ready Aquila 42 Yacht Power Catamaran .

The Aquila 42 is the entry point into the builder’s yacht line and is noteworthy for its ability to accommodate anywhere from a two- to four-stateroom layout, depending on the owner’s cruising requirements. There are alfresco spaces to manage the sunset cruise with friends and family, including a foredeck lounge area that can be accessed via centerline steps from the flybridge. The Aquila 42 is available with several Volvo Penta diesel-engine options .

Azimut Verve 42

Want to cruise from Florida to Bimini in about an hour? The Azimut Yachts Verve 42 can do that thanks, in part, to triple 450 hp Mercury Racing outboards and a hull designed to dice-and-slice a seaway. Top hop: 45 knots. The Verve 42 also has style for miles with a fine entry, raked hardtop, and a razorlike sheerline accented by sweeping hull glass from bow to stern. It’s striking.

With accommodation for a family of four, the Verve 42 is also solid under the hull tokeep everyone safe on those passages. The Verve 42’s hull is built of fiberglass and uses vinylester resins for blister protection. The yacht’s deck and hardtop are comprised of carbon fiber for strength without added weight. This all means that the Azimut Verve 42 is built to CE Classification Type A , making it suitable for sea voyages where winds can exceed 45 mph and seas to 13 feet.

Hinckley Yachts 35

The Hinckley Yachts 35 takes everything that yachtsmen like about this pedigreed-brand’s classic profile and infuses today’s modern outboard power to create 40 knots of sheer fun wrapped in sheer luxury.

This 35-foot Hinckley is built on a Michael-Peters-penned hull form with a fine entry, wider-than-average chines and a moderate deadrise. While the boat is built to sprint when desired, it’s also a relatively economical cruiser. For instance, a comfortable 24-knot cruise the Hinckley Yachts 35 has a 276-nautical-mile range.

It also has a tech-build thanks to vacuum-infused carbon-fiber composites and epoxy resin. An integrated interior structure is infused with the hull adding rigidity. The hull is then post-cured in an 80-foot oven, further strengthening the structure.

Beneteau Gran Turismo 45

The Beneteau Gran Turismo is the flagship of the builder’s four-model GT series, which also includes 32-, 36- and 41-foot models.

The Gran Turismo 45 ’s cruise-centric layout includes two staterooms and two heads belowdecks, as well as a galley down. There is also a dinette for meals and a settee for rainy-day lounging. Entertaining guests and enjoying the sun is the primary mission of the main deck.

Solaris Power 48 Open

The Solaris Power 48 Open was the first powerboat from this longtime builder known for its sailing yachts, ranging from 40 to 110 feet length overall. The Solaris Power 48 Open is notable for its wave-slicing plumb-bow design, high freeboard forward and 32-knot-plus speed. Power is twin 480 hp Volvo Penta IPS650 diesels.

The high freeboard keeps the deck dry and help creates sizable volume belowdecks with an average 6-foot-6-inch headroom. This enables real estate for either one or two staterooms. With the single-stateroom setup, there is a forepeak master stateroom while an L-shaped settee converts to sleeping accommodations for family or occasional guests. Interior wood options are oak or walnut.

Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS

Outboard-power cruising aficionados will appreciate the triple-engine options for the Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS . The 42 GLS we got aboard had the triple 400 hp Mercury Verados , which produced a top hop of 45 knots, but triple 450 hp Verados are available. Triple 350 hp Mercury Verados are the standard engine option. No matter the power arrangement, this express cruiser can easily be used for wakeboarding and tube towing. The 42 GLS is designed to handle the rough stuff too, with a fine entry and 21-degree transom deadrise.

For cruising enthusiasts, the 42 GLS has a master stateroom with an athwartships and a nearly queen-size berth, and the lower salon’s U-shaped dinette converts to a queen-size berth for the kids.

Back Cove 34O

Combining modern outboard power with classic Downeast styling, the Back Cove 34O touts award-winning standards with cruising in mind. The 34O is equipped with twin 300 hp Yamaha outboards, engines that allow the Newport International Boat Show’s 2018 Best Powerboat Under 35 Feet winner to travel up to 214 nautical miles at 24 knots on a 250-gallon fuel tank.

Belowdecks, the 34O has an island double berth and a split-head arrangement with the toilet to port and a separate shower stall to starboard. On the main deck, a U-shape dinette to port accommodates four or more guests on the Back Cove Yachts vessel. The 34O’s galley is equipped with a Cuisinart microwave, a two-burner Kenyon electric cooktop and a Vitrifrigo fridge and freezer.

Picnic Boat 40

Hinckley Yachts unveiled its first Picnic Boat more than two decades ago. Now, after two previous, sub-40-foot models, the Maine-based boatbuilder has developed its largest and most advanced model to date: the Picnic Boat 40.

Twin 480 hp Cummins diesel engines paired to twin Hamilton 322 jet drives propel the yacht to a 30-knot cruising speed and 34 knots on the pins. With optional twin 550 hp Cummins diesels, cruise and top-end speeds jump to 35 and 38 knots, respectively.

There is an L-shaped settee with a table and a wet bar on the main deck to port. The helm station is forward and to starboard with a benchseat for two. There is also a companion seat across from the helm. Belowdecks, there is 6-foot-2-inch headroom, and the dinette table drops to form a California-king berth for overnights and weekending.

Aquila Power Catamarans started its line with 44- and 48-footers, and now the builder’s Aquila 36 takes the line into the midsize market.

The 36 features a single, main-living area from bow to stern, helped in part by the vessel’s 14-foot, 7-inch beam. The boat can comfortably seat up to 20 guests for fun on the salt. Several Mercury Verado engine options are available for the Aquila 36, including twin 250-, 300- and 350-hp four-strokes. With the 350s, the Aquila has a top-end speed of 37 knots.

Other notable features include a fiberglass hardtop, a dinette, a cooktop, a fridge, a sink and a smokeless grill. Belowdecks, there are two staterooms with nearly queen-size berths, en suite heads and 6-foot-6-inch headroom in each.

Boston Whaler 350 Realm

From fishing and entertaining guests to diving and overnight cruising, Boston Whaler ‘s 350 Realm is a multitasker. And it’s fast, too. It’s powered with either triple 300 hp or triple 350 hp Mercury Verados. The 350 Realm can reach a top speed of 46 knots.

At the helm, two Raymarine displays provide vital navigation data. The captain can take in the displays’ view from a doublewide helm seat. There’s a flip-down platform for standing when needed and a footrest when desired.

There is a V-shaped berth that converts into a double berth with a filler cushion. The separated head has a VacuFlush MSD and a hot-and-cold shower. Owners also have the option to add a microwave and a flat-screen TV.

The MJM 35z can reach a top speed of 44 knots and a cruising speed of 33 knots on its optional 350 hp Mercury Verado outboards; twin 300 hp outboards are standard on this MJM Yachts vessel. Additionally, the 35z can travel up to 304 nautical miles on its 250-gallon fuel tank.

The 35z has a flush-deck layout and to port is space for an electric grill, a baitwell, a sink, an ice maker and a fridge. There are two Stidd helm seats—one for the helmsman and the other for a copilot—that rotate to face the rest of the seating aft. In the cabin is V-shaped seating forward that can be converted to a berth.

Owners also have the option of adding a Seakeeper 3 gyrostabilizer and a full-length Bimini top to shade the cockpit.

Greenline 39

Greenline Yachts ‘ vessels are aptly named for their environmentally friendly means of moving about; the Greenline 39 is no different. The Slovenian yacht manufacturer produces two types of this model: hybrid and solar.

If owners opt for the latter, the 39’s four solar panels atop the salon power all of the vessel’s systems for three hours. With the power of the sun, the 39 can achieve a max speed of 6.5 knots and a cruising speed of 4 knots. The hybrid type uses those same panels to help power a 220 hp Volvo Penta D3 with a Mahle electric-drive system. Owners have the option of replacing the standard engine with a 370 hp Yanmar 8LV diesel.

Belowdecks, scissor berths provide accommodations for long weekends.

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Small Yachts For Sale

Finding the right small yacht, or mini yacht, takes the expertise of a professional yacht broker. There are hundreds of yachts under 65-feet available, which is what our team considers a small yacht. Utilizing our professional brokerage services can assist you in your research with finding the perfect boat to purchase. To get started, simply select the boat you like below, or give our main office a call at 1-772-463-3131.

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9 Small Sailboats Under 30 Ft We Love

Our editorial staff selected 9 small sailboats under 30′ from all over the world. Today small sailboats have electronics for navigation and entertainment, an engine for light wind and accomodations to sleep onboard. Which is your preferred one between these 9 small sailboats?

Albin Vega 27

The Albin Vega 27 is a fiberglass sailboat that was produced by the Albin Motor Boat Company in the 1970s. It is a small, versatile vessel that is popular with sailors due to its good performance and comfortable interior. The Albin Vega 27 has a length of 27 feet (8.2 meters) and a beam (width) of 8.1 feet (2.46 meters). It is designed to be sailed single-handed, but can accommodate up to six people.

• Hull Type:  Long fin keel
• Hull Material:   GRP (fibreglass)
• Length Overall:  27′ 1″ / 8.25m
• Waterline Length:  23′ 0″ / 7.01m
• Beam:  8′ 1″ / 2.46m
• Draft:  3′ 8″ / 1.12m
• Rig Type:  Masthead sloop
• Displacement:  5,070lb / 2,300kg
• Designer:  Per Brohall
• Builder:  Albin Marine AB (Sweden)
• Year First Built:  1965
• Year Last Built:  1979
• Number Built:  3,450

Alpin Ballad 

• Hull Type:  Fin with skeg-hung rudder
• Length Overall:  29′ 11″ / 9.12m
• Waterline Length:  22′ 7″ / 6.88m
• Beam:  9′ 8″ / 2.95m
• Draft:  5′ 1″ / 1.55m
• Rig Type:  Masthead Sloop
• Displacement:  7,276lb / 3,300kg
• Designer:  Rolf Magnusson
• Builder:  Albin Marine (Sweden)
• Year First Built:  1971
• Year Last Built:  1982
• Number Built:  1500

The Bristol 24 has a length of 24.6 feet (7.5 meters) and a beam (width) of 8 feet (2.4 meters). It is designed to be sailed by a small crew, but can accommodate up to four people. The boat has a displacement of 4,920 lb (2,685 kilograms) and is equipped with a standard keel.

• Hull Type:  Long Keel
• Hull Material:  GRP (Fibreglass)
• Length Overall:  24′ 6″ / 7.5m
• Waterline Length:  18′ 1″ / 5.5m
• Beam:  8′ 0″ / 2.4m
• Draft:  3′ 5″ / 1.0m
• Displacement:  5,920lb / 2,685kg
• Designer:  Paul Coble
• Builder:  Bristol Yachts inc (US)
• Year First Built:  1969
• Year Last Built:  1972
• Number Built:  800

Contessa 28

The Contessa 24 is a fiberglass sailboat that was designed by David Sadler and produced by the Contessa Yachts company in the 1970s. The Contessa 24 has a length of 27.8 feet (8.43 meters) and a beam (width) of 9.5 feet (2.87 meters). It is designed to be sailed by a small crew, but can accommodate up to four people. The boat has a displacement of 3,162 kilograms and is equipped with a fin keel, which provides stability and improves its performance in a range of wind and sea conditions.

• Hull Type:  fin keel with spade rudder
• Hull Material:  GRP (Fiberglass)
• Length Overall:  27′ 8″ / 8.43m
• Waterline Length:  22′ 0″ / 6.71m
• Beam:  9′ 5″ / 2.87m
• Draft:  4′ 10″ / 1.47m
• Rig Type:  Masthead sloop
• Displacement:  6,970lb / 3,162kg
• Designer:  Doug Peterson
• Builder:  Jeremy Rogers
• Year First Built:  1977

The Dufour 29 is a fiberglass sailboat that was produced by the Dufour Yachts company in the 1970s. The Dufour 29 has a length of 29.4 feet (8.94 meters) and a beam (width) of 9.8 feet (2.95 meters). It is designed to be sailed by a small crew but can accommodate up to six people. The boat has a displacement of 7,250 pounds (3,289 kilograms) and is equipped with a fin keel.

• Length Overall:  29′ 4″ / 8.94m
• Waterline Length:  25′ 1″ / 7.64m
• Draft:  5′ 3″ / 1.60m
• Displacement:  7,250lb / 3,289kg
• Designer:  Michael Dufour
• Builder:   Dufour (France)
• Year First Built:  1975
• Year Last Built:  1984

Great Dane 28

The Great Dane 28 is a fiberglass sailboat that was produced by the Great Dane Yachts company in the 1970s. The Great Dane 28 has a length of 28 feet (8.5 meters) and a beam (width) of 10.4 feet (3.2 meters). It is designed to be sailed by a small crew, but can accommodate up to six people. The boat has a displacement of 8,500 pounds (3,856 kilograms) and is equipped with a fin keel.

• Hull Type:  Long keel with transom-hung rudder
• Length Overall:  28′ 0″ / 8.5m
• Waterline Length:  21′ 4″ / 6.5m
• Beam:  10′ 4″ / 3.2m
• Draft:  4′ 6″ / 1.4m
• Displacement:  8,500lb / 3,856kg
• Designer:  Aage Utzon in conjunction with Klaus Baess
• Builder:  Klauss Baess, Copenhagen (Denmark)
• Year Last Built:  1989
• Number Built:  300

The Sabre 27 is a fiberglass sailboat that was produced by the Sabre Yachts company in the 1970s. The Sabre 27 has a length of 27 feet (8.2 meters) and a beam (width) of 9 feet (2.6 meters). The boat has a displacement of 6,800 pounds (3,084 kilograms) and is equipped with a fin keel.

• Hull Type:  Fin and skeg-hung rudder
• Hull Material:  GRP (fibreglass)
• Length Overall:  27′ 0″ / 8.2m
• Waterline Length:  22′ 2″ / 6.8m
• Beam:  9′ 0″ / 2.7m
• Displacement:  6,800lb / 3,084kg
• Designer:  Alan Hill
• Builder:  Marine Construction Ltd (UK)
• Number Built:  400

• Hull Type:  Long keel with transom-hung rudder
• Length Overall:  28′ 3″ / 8.6m
• Waterline Length:  21′ 6″ / 6.6m
• Beam:  8′ 1″ / 2.5m
• Draft:  5′ 0″ / 1.5m
• Rig Type:  masthead sloop
• Displacement:  9,968lb / 4,521kg
• Designer:  Kim Holman
• Builder:  Uphams (UK) and Tyler (UK)
• Year First Built:  1964
• Year Last Built:  1983
• Number Built:  200

Westerly 22

The Westerly 22 is a fiberglass sailboat that was produced by the Westerly Yachts company in the 1970s. The Westerly 22 has a length of 22 feet (6.8 meters) and a beam (width) of 7.6 feet (2.3 meters).

• Hull Type:~  Bilge keel and skeg-hung rudder
• Hull Material:~  GRP (fibreglass)
• Length Overall:~  22′ 3″ / 6.8m
• Waterline Length:~  18′ 4″ / 5.6m
• Beam:~  7′ 6″ / 2.3m
• Draft:~  2′ 3″ / 0.7m
• Rig Type:~  Masthead Sloop
• Displacement:~  4,150lb / 1,429kg
• Sail Area/Displacement Ratio: ~ 16.95
• Displacement/Length Ratio: ~ 228
• Designer:~  Denis Rayner
• Builder:~  Westerly Marine Ltd (UK)
• Year First Built:~  1963
• Year Last Built:~  1967
• Number Built:~  332

The First Hybrid Electric Nautor’s Swan 88 Launched

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WTH?!? why there is no boat which started it all? Pearson Triton 1959 first GRP production boat? many circumnavigated I with mine singlehandedly crossed Atlantic few times.

And no Westsail 28? :O who made this list must do better homework! ! your list is garbage!

8 Best Catamarans That Are 30 Feet or Less

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Large-sized catamarans are appealing due to their ample spacing and comfort. Therefore, a cruising family or couple looking to buy a boat is more likely to go for one of these. But are there small cruising catamarans that provide the performance, comfort, and amenities found in larger boats?  

The best catamarans under 30 feet (9.14 m) include the TomCat 6.2, Cadillac 27and 30, Gemini 30, Endeavour 30, and Maine Cat. These time-tested cruising cats are easy to handle, premium built, and are great for daytime sailing, overnight trips, and some even suitable for long-range sea passages. 

In this article, you’ll find a list of the best cruising catamarans below 30 feet (9.14 m). Keep reading to discover which catamarans make this list, what they have to offer, their pros and cons, and how much they cost.

If you are unsure whether or not 30ft is too small for your needs, then I suggest you check out another article I wrote named Best Size Catamaran , it will discuss why length matters and how it affects safety.

Unlike most catamarans designed for racing purposes, the TomCat 6.2 is a medium-sized cat that’s well-suited to daytime cruising. It boasts high-quality construction, vacuum-bagged hulls, and a plywood-reinforced deck.

This 20 footer (6.09 m) comes with an 11-foot (3.35 m) beam and not only offers you safety and comfort but performance and versatility as well. 

This boat has a centrally placed outboard engine and two rudders that allow it to turn quickly and maneuver confidently into and out of marina slips. The 9.9 hp outboard propels it to speeds of around 8 knots (9.21 mph or 14.8 kph), though the boat has the potential to move faster if desired.

This simpler type of cat (just one engine as an example) also allows for cheaper and easier maintenance. Maintenance costs are something most people underestimate when getting a cat, if you want to get some real numbers from actual sailors then I suggest you read this article (How much does it cost to maintain a cat).

The boat sails with minimal heeling, comfortably accommodate 6-8 people, and you can sail it single-handed or take a crew. 

High and narrow hulls bearing arched bottoms allow for a low wetted surface. The hull design provides low resistance and a great deal of reserved buoyancy and also enables you to drive through closely spaced waves.

On most 20-footers (6.1 m), driving through waves generates a smooth but wet ride, but with the TomCat’s enclosed deck (link to parts names explained here ), you are safe and protected behind a windshield and the high bulwark.

The TomCat makes an excellent cruiser because it performs impressively well both under sail and power. It combines the performance of a modern sailing cat with the comfort, style, and convenience of a powerboat. It’s also trailerable since you can detach the hulls from the deck , winch up the deck on a trailer, and slide the hulls underneath.

But the best part is that it’s easy on the pocket, with the price ranging between $36,750 and $44,580 .

Catalac 30 (9M)

The Catalac brand consists of strongly built vessels that sport thick hulls, glass windows, narrow beams, and vertical transoms . Catalac 30 was the first vessel in this popular British cruising line designed by Tom Lack in the late 60s. The boat’s appeal was attributed to its safety, ample spacing, well-built interior, and load-carrying abilities.

These characteristics are extremely important on a safe catamaran, overloading your cat makes it sit lower in the water, increases drag, reduces handling and speed, there is stuff you should know about this (so that you can make an educated buy). I have created an article where I try to explain the basics of a safe cat ( link here )

Sporting 5 berths, a massive galley, plus a cockpit with a sheltered steering position, the 30-foot (9.1 m) Catalac makes an excellent floating home for a cruising family. It sails exceptionally well, doesn’t heel ( heeling explained here ), and delivers a reasonable motor-sailer level of performance.

Furthermore, the hulls provide adequate headroom, allowing those on board to move around comfortably, and there’s enough space on the deck for sunbathing. 

The Catalac’s structure features solid fiberglass, chined hulls, and a staggered sheerline that allows easy aft access. With a modest rig that’s easy to handle, the Catalac can deliver top speeds of up to 12-14 knots (13.81-16.11 mph / 22.22-25.9 kph) under sail.

Given that the boat’s design focuses more on comfort than speed, this is a spectacular performance.  

Catalac 9M requires a skilled hand when turning into the wind as it is prone to blowing sideways. This is because the boat lacks ballast (which helps in keeping momentum during a tack) but also centerboards ( explained here ).

Skills are always the most essential things to bring aboard and you can acquire them in many ways, my two favorite ways are through NauticEd courses (two free courses here ) or by reading books (my top 15 books here )

Back to the boat! This model came in two versions; the standard layout contained a 30-40hp outboard, while the second option had duo engines. The latter is easier to maneuver into a marina. 

These cats retain their value pretty well. However, they might not be easy to come by since most owners find it challenging to get their hands on a larger boat with similar qualities and performance.

A Catalac 30 (9M) goes for between $33,000 and $55,000.

Catalac 27 (8M)

The Catalac 27 8M is a pocket cruiser that boasts a strong reputation for high quality, durability, and strength. Besides, the boat’s design makes it somewhat suitable for bluewater sailing ( understand why the small size is an offshore problem).

Built like a battleship, the boat contains solid fiberglass hulls. Additionally, it comes with double engines, a large cockpit fitted with cushions all around, and features standing headroom in each hull.

Like the Catalac 9M, this boat comes with two different layouts; a twin inboard diesel engine or an outboard engine. The twin-engine models can motor up to 1000 km (621 miles, read more on cat fuel consumption here ) without needing to refuel, while the 70 amps of charge plus water tanks (70 gallons / 265 liters) make these vessels remarkable coastal cruisers. 

Catalacs equipped with outboard engines sail faster since you can raise the engine during sailing and are also lighter. This helps to minimize drag . Catalac 8M sports a short but thick mast that helps make the boat stable. 

Though small in size, this catamaran packs a lot of features in its small frame. It has a full-sized berth, a large galley that’s almost 8 feet (2.4 m) long, a quarter berth, head, and navigation station.

What’s more, the cockpit is as large as that of a 38 to 40-foot (11.5 to 12.1 m) cat.

Catalac 27 costs about $31,836.

The Endeavour 30 

The Endeavour 30 catamaran is a boat characterized by stability, ample deck space, and a spacious interior. It boasts fast cruising speeds under both sail and power.

The boat has mini keels and rudders plus symmetrical hulls separated by a hydra-cell. The latter is a center section with a characteristic V-shape. 

The boat’s vacuum-bagged construction helps enhance strength and stiffness while reducing weight. Furthermore, the interior has a fiberglass mold, providing extra strength and rigidity. With sufficient breeze, this vessel can deliver reasonable off-the-wind and doable upwind speeds.

As such, you can expect to attain speeds of about ~10 knots (11.51 mph or 18.5 kph) on power reaches. Below is a video showing a panoramic tour of the Endeavour 30:

This vessel has the internal capacity of a 40-foot (12.1 m) monohull. And you can tell this from the unique layout merging the cabin and cockpit with wide doors to the numerous features packed into this 30-foot (9.14 m) vessel.

It has a spacious salon, an enormous galley, two queen berth staterooms with plenty of storage space, a head with separate showers, and a sizable U-shaped dinette. 

You can get this boat for under $50,000 .

The Geminis by Tony Smith were the United States’s first production cruising cats. Today, these vessels remain the most appealing American-built cruising catamarans. Built between 1981 and 1990, the Gemini 30 does not have a contemporary design, but it works remarkably well for cruisers desiring generous living space in a small affordable sailboat.

At only 14 feet (4.2 m) across, Gemini cats are somewhat narrow. But this mean s they can easily fit into most of the regular marina berths.

Besides, the boats still contain enough interior space for a queen-size double berth and two smaller doubles housed in separate guest rooms.

There’s also a modest but serviceable saloon with duo settees and a collapsible table that can transform into an additional double berth.

For the Gemini 30, this translates to a cruising cat with standing headroom that can comfortably accommodate 3 couples in private cabins or a family with small children. A good-sized galley, a spacious head with a shower, nav desk, and a large comfy cockpit make up the Gemini 30’s cruising palace.

Catamaran layout is highly personal and if you want to learn more about different characteristics then I suggest you read my article Designing the perfect catamaran layout ( Link )

While not that fast, the Gemini 30 will easily outsail the Endeavor 30 discussed above. Its daggerboards (which are explained in detail here ) can point well, and if you keep it light, it can do 7-8 knots (12.9-14.8 km/hr) under sail.

Besides, raising the daggerboards reduces the wetted surface area, and increases the speed downwind.

The Gemini 30 tends to pound and hobbyhorse a little when sailing in choppy waters – particularly when overloaded (more on load carrying capabilities in this article ), but the deep pivoting daggerboards provide stability and lift underwater.

Furthermore, the Gemini’s retractable rudders enable it to venture into shallow waters.

This is a very popular cruising cat that’ll give you a lot of bang for your bucks.

You can find a Gemini for less than $65,000.

Maine Cat 30 

The Maine Cat 30 combines premium quality construction materials with the most advanced building techniques to create a lightweight vessel capable of handling most offshore conditions. What’s more, this boat can remain trouble-free for years on end with little effort.

If you are in the market for a simple liveaboard cruiser that you can use for a short weekend getaway or a cruising voyage, this is it.

The boat has a sizable primary stateroom berth with ample overhead space and a dresser fitted with a hanging storage cabinet. The enormous head includes a toilet, sink, 20-gallon (75.71 L) holding tank, vanity, and a pressurized shower.

Covering the open bridgedeck is a permanent hardtop. This spacious bridgedeck can hold quite a crowd and comes with a convertible dinette that turns into an extra berth. If need be, you can even enclose the entire space using acrylic windows or screens. Gabo

The 360-degree visibility from the cockpit allows the captain plus the crew a panoramic view, and all sail controls go back to the cockpit, which is very useful if wanting to sail single-handedly.

I believe that most boats should be set up in this way since sooner or later you might be in a situation where there is only one person to handle the controls, such as in an emergency. But more on that in another article ( Link ).

The Maine Cat 30 is a classic boat that delivers on high-performance multihull sailing. Designed to offer much better performance than catamarans bearing tall and heavy bridge decks, this cat weighs less and suffers less windage thanks to the acrylic windows.

The boat’s interior layout allows for easy cleaning as surfaces sport a smooth gel coat and satin-finished cherry trim. The solid but lightweight furniture bears the same Core-Cell foam core employed on the hull, deck, and hardtop. Plus, there’s ample storage for all your sailing equipment, cleaning supplies, and provisions.

A Maine Cat 30 can cost up to $110,000.

Heavenly Twins 27

The overall design of this well-equipped catamaran makes it a superb pocket cruiser.

Heavenly Twins 27 manages to fit not one but two coachroofs on hulls that are only 27 feet (8.20 m) long. Canoe sterns and a central cockpit separating the duo coachroofs form the boat’s other prominent features. 

Famous for their excellent build quality, medium-depth draft, and narrow beams, Heavenly Twins 27 appeals to a wide range of boating enthusiasts.

These include solo sailors, weekend sailors, cruising families, circumnavigators, beginner sailors, and experienced liveaboards such as this famous Youtube channel “Kittiwake”.

The vessels house double cabins in the hulls while the forward starboard contains the heads and, to port, the galley. You can easily access the bar from the well-protected cockpit while the Comfordesk accommodation converts into a double dock. 

A stoop through allows access from below-deck to the aft compartment without going through the cockpit. There’s ample storage space throughout the boat, plus you can section off the large stateroom into smaller double compartments if desired.

The price range for this boat is $ 20,098 to $24,193. (I believe that kittiwake is for sale too)

The last cruising catamaran on my list is the Aquilon 26 . This French-built cruising vessel is light in weight and trailerable, which means you can disassemble it in a few hours or transport it as-is.

Designing a boat that is possible to disassemble usually means that it is structurally less strong, which by no means is a problem during coastal sailing but the Aquilon 26 is mostly attractive to sailors who prefer inland lake sailing. It’s also suitable for beginner sailors.

Although there are no real “beginner cats” there are specs to consider if you are a beginner with catamarans, most of them I have listed in another article ( here ). Gabo

This 26-footer (7.92 m) has the potential for good speed though its layout is anything but conventional- which forms part of its appeal.

The cockpit works as the saloon, and a full bimini protects the crew from lousy weather. The starboard hull contains a dinette and galley, and the port has a double berth stateroom. The windows are quite unusual, but they provide lots of light, remarkably enhancing interior visibility.

Aquilon 26 can deliver an average cruising speed of 10knots (11.51 mph or 18.5 kph).

On a beam reach, you can expect around 25 knots (28.77 mph or 46.3 kph) with an adequate breeze ( I have never sailed at 25knots but researching this boat supposedly it is possible).

You can get this boat for under $50,000.

What Makes Small Cruising Cats Attractive?

Small cruising cats are ideal for sailing along the coast. But that’s not all. Under capable hands, properly fitted smaller cats can also deliver spectacular offshore passages similar to their larger counterpart (Heres a list of full-sized bluewater cats).

They can operate over long cruise ranges, cross oceans , and circumnavigate the globe . Smaller cats are also suitable for day sailing, overnight trips, and coastal or inland voyages. 

For most sailors, comfort on board is crucial, so they’ll look for a vessel that guarantees a comfortable cruising experience. The good thing is that smaller vessels provide almost the same qualities and amenities that bigger vessels offer. Plus, you can do quite a bit with the available space, especially if it’s well laid out.  

You’ll find that most 30-footer (9.14 m) or more miniature cruising cats comprise a galley, head, bunks, navigation and entertainment electronics, and refrigeration.

Sailors usually talk about these benefits of smaller cats:

• They’re less expensive. Large boats are costly to buy. They also cost more to hire, maintain, and dock. You can buy a small-sized boat at a much lower price, and parts tend to cost less too. Besides, you get to use smaller sails, winches, and lighter lines than those applicable on a larger boat. And since marine services such as moorings and haul-outs get billed via boat length, a smaller cat makes sailing more affordable.
• They boast superior builds. Most cruising boats under 30 feet (9.14 m) feature designs that are 30+ years old. In those days, weather forecasts were hard to come by and not as accurate, so boat builders used hulls with thicker fiberglass than the type found in today’s builds. Furthermore, everything in the boat, including rigs, rudders, hulls, keels and decks, was designed to withstand strong winds and high waves. 
• They have simpler systems. This means less time spent fixing and maintaining your boat. For instance, most small cruising cats often lack water-makers, hot water systems, or electric anchor windlasses. 
• They’re easier to handle. Smaller cats are simpler to sail than larger cats. It’s also easier to sail one single-handed or with a small crew.

What is the largest cat on person can sail?

The Disadvantages of Smaller Cruising Cats

Below are some of the most discussed downsides of small cats:

• They have limited living space, storage, and amenities.
• Though they don’t heel much, they are less comfortable than larger boats since they get tossed around much more easily in big ocean swells.
• It’s not easy to accommodate crew for extended periods; hence there are fewer hands to share work.
• They are slower and take longer to get to their destination.

Though fewer are on the cruising trails than their larger counterparts, small catamarans make ideal cruisers because they are simple, seaworthy, and pocket-friendly.

When choosing the best cat for your needs, focus on quality rather than size. A well-planned 30-footer (9.14 m) is reliable and provides ample space for your accommodation, dining, and relaxation, plus a storage room for provisions and any spare parts you might need. 

And if you want even more info than I have presented to you in this article I would recommend a book from Serj, he makes it easy to understand why size matters and how to find a cat suited for your needs (amazon link )

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Extraordinary boats: Scow-bowed Ace 30

• Rupert Holmes
• December 22, 2022

The Ace 30 is a new design intended to bring the scow bow concept, popular among offshore racing machines, to IRC yachts

Scow bow designs are still very rare in the UK and mostly elsewhere in northern Europe. The exception is France, especially on the Atlantic coast, where their distinctive spatula-shaped forward sections are an increasingly common sight on Mini 650s, Class 40 s and IMOCA 60 s, and now the new Ace 30.

Scow designs are now even pushing into the cruising domain. The Mojito 650, for instance, is a detuned version of the phenomenally successful Maxi 650 that took five of the top nine places in the last Mini Transat, with demand outstripping the rate at which builder IDB Marine can produce them. The Mojito 650 offers huge accommodation volume for a 21-footer, along with distinctive style, yet still offers planing performance downwind and a surprising turn of speed close hauled.

With the explosion of interest in short-handed offshore racing on both sides of the English Channel, it’s perhaps no surprise to find a new scow bowed yacht aimed at IRC racing, even though that’s a much harder challenge to overcome. While planing designs now dominate among new IRC boats launched in the 40-45ft and upwards sector, the opposite is the case for smaller boats, where heavier displacement designs still dominate.

Scow hulls aim to keep the boat going above the waves rather than through them. Photo: Photo Ludovic Fruchaud/EYOTY

The problem is that getting a decent IRC rating for a smaller lightweight boat is seen as being next to impossible. As a result, some of the most successful designs this season, such as the JPK 10.10 and Jeanneau Sun Fast 3600 – between them accounting for all of the top four places in the 2022 RORC overall season’s points, weigh 4 or 5 tonnes and therefore have relatively heavy displacement length ratios.

Attempting to disrupt the status quo with a radical lightweight design is a brave move, but that’s what the new Ace 30 is hoping to achieve. At the same time, the boat is intended to appeal to former Mini 650 owners – this class has a huge number of alumni, many of which continue to seek fast and innovative new boats.

Downwind performance should be impressive. Photo: Ludovic Fruchaud/EYOTY

Ace 30 – a tardis concept

When viewed from the dock the Ace 30 looks like a small boat with slab sides and a big chunky coachroof. However, once on board, whether above or below decks, it feels like a much larger vessel with very impressive stability. The reverse sheer is not a style statement. It increases the intrinsic stiffness of the hull, increases volume in the central parts of the accommodation and reduces weight in the ends of the boat.

The deck layout is very similar to that of JPKs and Sun Fasts, although the benches forward lack even the smallest of coamings. Even so, anyone who has sailed these or similar boats will feel instantly at home.

My sail on board wasn’t in optimal conditions for the boat, with true wind of mostly 5-6 knots. Nevertheless, it immediately proved to be quick, with boat speed of 6-7.5 knots even when VMG running at 140° true wind angle in these light airs. Upwind 5-6 knots was possible, though you have to sail at wide angles of around 50° TWA and it’s important not to pinch too close. Bearing away as little as 5° can increase boat speeds by 1 knot and markedly reduces slamming.

The cockpit layout of the Ace 30 is broadly similar to that of Sun Fasts, JPKs and similar boats of this size. Photo: Ludovic Fruchaud/EYOTY

In stronger winds during the European Yacht of the Year trials at La Rochelle, we could see the boat matching the close hauled speeds of around 7 knots achieved by the much larger Linjett 39 and First 36, albeit sailing noticeably lower.

Like other scows it’s when power-reaching and downwind in a blow that this boat will really come into its own. A very different setup and sail trim are required compared to conventional boats. The mast is very well aft in the boat and needs a lot of both mast rake and bend.

Transom-hung rudders reduce weight and complexity, while also allowing easy adjustment of toe-in angle. Photo: Ludovic Fruchaud/EYOTY

Designer and builder Antoine Mainfray of Atelier Interface in La Rochelle says he worked hard to keep the IRC rating down, while also keeping the weight of the boat low. During the design process he applied for three trial certificates, with the last of these coming in at a respectable 1.014. During the build he moved the engine back slightly to trim the stern down, made the interior more comfortable, and further tweaked sail sizes.

The final rating of 1.001 also reflects the setup of the first boat, which is optimised for transatlantic races such as the Transquadra, Cap Martinique, and RORC Transatlantic. It therefore has a very short luff J2 jib and is not rated with the J1 that would be needed on shorter offshore races, where more light air upwind sailing is likely to be experienced. Nevertheless, this is a figure very close to that of older successful and heavier designs such as the JPK 10.10 – and several per cent lower than the Sun Fast 3300.

The stability of this boat is such that the J4 doesn’t need to be used until the true wind speed is greater than 25 knots. Equally, the 100m2 A2 spinnaker – a very large sail for a boat of this length and weight – is intended for use in true wind of up to 25 knots, after which you switch to the A5.

Eco footprint

Sustainability is also an important element of the concept and Mainfray, who has also recently delivered a foiling Mini 650 that uses bamboo – “a material that can have a negative carbon footprint” – in the structure, appears to do as much as possible to live by his values.

This is one of the reasons for the plywood build of the Ace 30. The carbon footprint of this boat is 1.9 tonnes, whereas an equivalent GRP hull would be over 6 tonnes, even before making allowance for building moulds.

Plywood is also inherently lightweight and stiff, making it ideal for building one-off raceboats and small production runs without a mould. This boat also includes carbon reinforcement, primarily around the chainplates and a spider of unidirectional fibres on the coachroof.

The okoume ply used for the hull is mostly 12mm thick, with 15mm used for some parts of the structure. Outside of this are two layers of biaxial rovings, plus a third at 45°. These are laid up using bio resins and increase strength, particularly around the keel, where the lay-up is thicker, while also providing impact resistance to protect the timber. Inside the boat, the ply is coated and impregnated with epoxy, but is not sheathed with glass.

Interior is functional but spacious and light and includes a settee each side, central table, nav station and galley. Photo: Ludovic Fruchaud/EYOTY

The coachroof is partly made of GRP, using bio epoxies and recycled PET cores, but again without a mould.

Mainfray says that in areas without much curvature the sandwich can be laminated and infused in one go. Where complex curves are required he moulds one skin on a jig or template, then adds the core material and the second laminate in another phase.

The computer monitor is on a big swing arm, so can be moved to each side of the boat or viewed through the companionway when on deck. Photo: Ludovic Fruchaud/EYOTY

Roomy interior

Below decks is functional, but surprisingly spacious, with enough volume to make a reasonable ultra-fast cruiser. The low freeboard means there are no sole boards, so you stand on the hull and have to step over the structural members to get around. This gives reasonable 1.75m (5ft 9in) headroom near the table, increasing to well over 6ft under the cuddy.

The saloon has a long settee each side, with sitting headroom under the very wide side decks, plus a central table that houses the diesel tank, keeping weight central and low down. There are twin open plan double berths aft, and seats each side for taking a nap near the companionway.

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• 30 SportCat
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Certified pre-owned yachts.

Xquisite In-House Bahamas Boat Show on May 10-11, 2024

Certified Pre-Owned 2018 X5 “VANQUISH” is now on sale!

Certified Pre-Owned 2020 X5 “SHELL SHOCKED X” is now on sale!

• Model: X5 Sail - VANQUISH
• Year Built: 2018
• Location: Freeport, Bahamas
• Price: $ 1,150,000

• Model: X5 Sail - SHELL SHOCKED X
• Year Built: 2020
• Price: $ 1,350,000

Designed for fast and fun sailing, island and beach hopping and occasional overnighting.

Xquisite 30 Sportcat

The Xquisite 30 Sportcat innovative and trailer transportable, designed to deliver the ultimate sailing experience. Easily handled by even non-seasoned sailors, and it can accommodate up to 8 persons onboard.

Very light weight construction, carbon beams, rotating carbon mast and high performance sails are part of the standard package and assures the sporty sailing experience.

The mini keels offer a convenient solution to navigate shallow waters while the optional dagger boards boost the performance even further.

The Xquisite 30 Sportcat: A Trailer-Transportable Catamaran for Ultimate Sailing Fun

30 Sportcat Gallery

Xquisite 30 Sportcat Specifications & Extras

• E-Glass and Vinyl Ester Composite with Carbon Reinforcement Made by Infusion Method
• Flexiteek Sinthetic Decking
• Carbon Fibre Cross Beams
• Rotating Carbon Mast by Ag+
• Antifouling on Waterline Level on Hulls
• Carbon Bow Pipes
• Carbon Pipe Rudder Connectors and Fins
• Harken Sailing Hardware
• Carbon Stanchions
• Chemical Toilet
• Led Battery Light in Cabins
• 2x Mattresses in Cabins
• Black Mooring Cleats
• Large Trampolines
• Deck Windows 2x
• Outboard Engine Bracket
• Navigation Lights
• Square Top Mainsail 3Di ENDURANCE 760 14,700 Dp by NORTH SAILS
• Jib Medium 3Di ENDURANCE 760 14,700 Dpi by NORTH SAILS
• G Zero Gennaker NPL Code Xi Xi06 CDT by NORTH SAILS

• Exterior Hull Paint
• Carbon Fibre Epoxy Dagger Boards
• Ipad With Waterproof Case and Navigation App
• Carbon Gangway
• Electric Outboard Motor
• Trailer for Easy Transportation
• Safety Pack With Pneumatic Vests, Falres, etc.
• Solar Panels and Battery Pack
• Parasailor Downwind Sail With Hardware
• Shipping and Commissioning

Used Yachts For Sale Below 40 Feet

Listed below are used yachts for sale worldwide below 40 feet. Use the search tools to narrow your exploration. SYS Yacht Sales offers a wide range of used yachts for sale, including motor yachts, center consoles, trawlers, express cruisers, sportfish yachts, sailboats and everything in between. Search top brands like Riviera, Boston Whaler, Tiara, Yellowfin, Beneteau and much more. Need assistance? Contact our experienced yacht brokers. We look forward to helping you find the yacht that's right for you.

Marquis 40 SC

Pacific Seacraft 40

Cabo 40 Hardtop Express

Intrepid 407 Panacea

Intrepid 407 Cuddy

Best life ii.

Beneteau 40

Vanquish Yachts VQ40

Galeon 400 Fly

LADY SUPERFINE

Monterey 400 Sport Yacht

VanDutch 40

Hinckley Sport Boats Sport Boat 40x

Sabre 40 Hardback Express

Press On Regardless

Formula 40 PC

Invincible 40 Catamaran

Formula 400 FX

Vento V40 Retro Classic Open

Beneteau Oceanis 40

Intrepid 407

Regal Commordore 4060

• Event Details

Power Boats 25ft > 30ft | Used Boats For Sale

USS Florida rumoured to have used her Dry Deck Shelter operationally in the Middle East

The Ohio class SSGNs are an ideal platform for extremely covert maritime missions

When Ohio-class submarine USS Florida slipped south out of the Mediterranean into the Red Sea last April, the US Navy took the highly unusual step of announcing it. A similar announcement was made when she transited back through the Suez Canal in November, issued complete with a photograph of her.

Naval commentators immediately spotted the hefty metal cylinder fitted to the sub’s hull. While innocuous to the casual observer, this ‘Dry Deck Shelter’ is a highly significant piece of equipment and one set to become an ever more vital capability in the future.

Both Great Britain and the United States have been highly-skilled at secretly inserting and extracting elite forces from enemy territory by sea since World War Two. The submarine used for the British Operation Frankton – a story better known under the title ‘the Cockleshell Heroes’ – surfaced to deploy her commandos, who then paddled their canoes through perilously rough seas to enter French enemy territory in the winter of 1942. Such operations remained standard practice for some time.

But if there’s one thing a submarine captain dislikes intensely, it’s having his sub is on the surface and therefore vulnerable and easy to spot. They’re quite literally a sitting duck. There can also be serious accidents when hatches into the sub’s main hull are opened when out at sea, especially if the boat is not fully surfaced.

With the improvement of scuba gear, it became possible for a boat to remain under the surface while launching frogmen through a small lock-out compartment built inside the hull, which was flooded for their departure and return. But a submerged submarine often cannot get near to a target coast or other objective without running aground: and frogmen are limited in how far they can swim, especially in unfavourable conditions. This led to the introduction of Swimmer Delivery Vehicles (SDVs), powered mini submarines able to deploy from a mother sub underwater and carry frogmen to their objective.

In 1968 the submarine USS Grayback was converted to an amphibious transport submarine, with auxiliary tanks added to the engine room and former missile chambers used to accommodate US Navy SEAL special operations frogmen and their SDVs. After the Grayback was retired, the US Navy moved to using Dry Deck Shelters which can be fitted to different submarines as may be required. The first US submarine to be fitted with one was Sturgeon Class attack boat USS Cavella in 1982.

Today the US Navy has six DDSs. The four 19,000-tonne Ohio Class guided missile boats – SSGNs, converted from ballistic missile submarines – are capable of carrying two DDSs at once.

It takes roughly half a week to attach the 12 by two and a half metre module to the submarine, seal the hatches and connect air, water and electricity supplies. Then the sub is ready to use it for various kind of mission.

Most simply, when the mother sub has gone as far as it can go, frogmen swim out of the flooded compartment equipped with hand-held motors, or Zodiac Combat Rubber Raiding Craft.

Or they just swim. SEALs learn Combat Sidestroke, a blend of breaststroke, sidestroke and front crawl.

The body is streamlined and carried parallel to the water’s surface for maximum propulsion, enabling the men to swim swiftly but with minimal surface disturbance.

They must be able to cover 500 yards in under ten minutes.

The SEALs then train to not only combat swim, but at night in freezing winter seas, for at least a kilometre (possibly much more), carrying the up to 60lb kit required for their mission.

But surface swimming would be unlikely in a real operation. Normally the SEALs – or British Special Boat Service commandos – would remain underwater using breathing sets for as long as possible. Special-forces divers typically use rebreather sets filled with pure oxygen: the diver is thus breathing in and out of a bag (the ‘counterlung’) full of oxygen, through a container of soda-lime CO2 absorbent. Such a set emits no tell-tale bubbles to give away the frogman’s position.

Finding your position by putting a GPS aerial above the water is another giveaway and avoided where possible. Traditional compass navigation is nowadays aided by such technologies as inertial guidance and doppler sonar.

But attack swimming is hard work, especially when pulling along a load of combat equipment, and even the best swimmers can’t overcome ocean currents of any strength, or cover long distances. Hence the need for SDVs.

SDVs as used until recently, however, have been free flooding: the special operators riding in them are still immersed in the surrounding water and breathing from diving sets, though they may be hooked up to the SDV for additional gas supplies. This can mean, in the case of a long SDV transit, that the frogmen arrive at their destination too chilled by the sea to remain effective.

Thus the SEALs have long had an aspiration to acquire a ‘dry’ SDV, one in which they could ride in comfort and finish the journey in fighting shape. The ill-starred Advanced SEAL Delivery System (ASDS) was the proposed answer. Too large to fit in a DDS, it was planned that the ASDS would dock directly on to the mother sub.

Unfortunately the ASDS reportedly used to get damaged if the mother sub went at any speed, and it also suffered from various other problems. The programme was cancelled, and the sole prototype caught fire and was destroyed while stored ashore in 2008. It was announced that the USN would continue with a new class of wet SDVs.

However the SEALs’ aspirations towards a dry mini-sub had not gone away. In 2010, federal documents showed that the SEALs had leased a six metre S301 dry lock-out mini-submersible, developed by British firm MSubs, which would “be used by field units for doctrinal, operational, and organizational purposes”. The S301 was small enough to operate from a DDS. MSubs also offers refined S302 and S303 versions of this – the latter is specified as being able to be carried in a “ballistic missile tube”.

In June 2016, Lockheed Martin and The Submergence Group, which uses MSubs’ designs, were awarded a $166m, five-year initial contract to develop and build three S351 Nemesis Dry Combat Submersibles . That figure rose to $236m by 2018. Initially deployed from surface ships, the shift to integrate Nemesis into US Navy submarines – possibly Virginia-class boats – began in 2020. Two submersibles were completed and delivered to the US Navy in 2023. All three are set to be in service by 2026.

Twelve metres long and with a beam and height of 2.4m, the mini-submersible has three compartments, one for troops, a swimmer lock-in/lock-out chamber and an aft command pod for the pilot and co-pilot. Weighing 28 tonnes, with a range of 60 nautical miles and an endurance of more than 24 hours, it is an undoubted top performer in its field.

Britain for its part has just one DDS which can be fitted to its Astute class attack submarines , and some ordinary wet SDVs.

However exceptional the kit, the capability is all in the people and the hard graft of pre-deployment training.

There must be exceptional levels of communication and understanding between the team on board the submarine, divers working in the DDS and the SDV crew.

The mother submarine must be held exactly the right depth as the DDS hatch is opened and the submersible leaves.

But all the effort is worthwhile to keep the submarine dived.

For the British, whilst our deterrent boats have a hover system to keep them sitting in the water when firing a missile, our Astute hunter killers don’t. Royal Navy captains deploying the SBS must manoeuvre the ship to keep it in the correct position and at the correct depth.

American Ohio-class SSGNs , being former ballistic missile boats, have a hover system, which makes depth control far easier, despite their huge size.

Extracting special forces is as challenging as insertion.

Radio can’t be used for fear of revealing your position and the troops may be the middle of a firefight.

Both parties must be at the exact same place at the right time and, by now, the special operators will not only be spent but some possibly badly injured.

Yet in the SSGNs, which came online in 2006, the Americans have the perfect vessel for such operations, with sufficient space for a large force of SEALs, the latest sensors for intelligence gathering and the ability to launch Tomahawk bombardment to provide SEALs ashore with fire support.

Former Royal Navy submarine CO Ryan Ramsey , who worked closely with the American submarine service, says the Dry Deck Shelter is “a gamechanger for 21 st century warfare and the type of operations required these days… and one we probably need more of”.

Yet, it could be argued, that its significance goes further still, into realms that are only beginning to be discussed.

If the naval war between Russia and Ukraine has taught us anything, it’s that all surface and airborne assets are now vulnerable to increasingly sophisticated armed drone attacks. Drone warfare is still in its comparative infancy, with the potential to proliferate in a plethora of ways we cannot yet imagine. Missile technology is also proliferating.

But a nuclear powered mother submarine can stay beneath the waves for months on end, unfindable and invulnerable to drones and missiles. Only specialised anti-submarine ships, aircraft and sensors – or another nuclear sub – are any threat to her. Nations with nuclear subs, DDSs, SDVs or similar technologies can make a group of their special forces emerge from any body of water connected to the sea, even if the location is hundreds of miles inside a hostile air-defence system which would easily prevent insertion by helicopter, parachute or other means.

USS Florida is rumoured to have successfully used her DDS last year, but it’ll probably be a long time before we hear the details. We know that she fired Tomahawk cruise missiles at Houthi military targets in January , but how the intelligence was gathered which led to the selection of targets will no doubt remain highly classified.

• Israel-Hamas War,
• Royal Navy Submarine Service,
• Navy SEALs,
• Special Boat Service (SBS),
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