blue water yacht company

DISCOVER BLUEWATER

Chartering a luxury yacht is only the beginning…

Exceptional Destinations

Presenting yacht charters to local and exotic destinations around the globe. A conduit for absolute luxury.

Dare to be Different

Blue Water Yacht Company is for those who desire more than a luxury yacht charter. It’s for the adventure seekers, trailblazers, innovators… 

Perfectly Paired

Allow our private chef to create the ultimate in cuisine. For you and your guests…

Experience Where It Matters Most

Nothing is more important than the safety and comfort of you and your guests. Rest easy knowing our experienced yacht crew is taking care of all the details 24/7…

Yacht Fleet

Luxury yachts are available for daily, weekly or monthly charter. Tell us your preferred dates and budget and we’ll secure you the perfect vessel to create the ultimate geteaway…

110' BWYC Astondoa Century

100' bwyc azimut, 94' bwyc pershing, 147' bwyc golden touch, create your own adventure.

Tell us the custom experience you’re looking for and we’ll make it happen…

We look forward to welcoming you aboard…

Yacht Charters

Let us help you plan and charter your next yacht adventure. Click the button below to get started...

Yacht Purchases

We can help you find and purchase your new or pre-owned yacht. Click the button below to get started...

Introducing the All-New 

Bluewater 56.

Photo Gallery

Images marked with a * are of sister-ships from a different manufacturer., exterior gallery, click on image to enlarge.

Interior Gallery

Standard Specifications

And equipment, hull and deck.

Hull is laid up with Twaran, a carbon aramid fiber with alternating FRP glass.  NO CORE with vinylester resins and lsophthalic gel coat.

Two epoxy barrier coats below the waterline for optimal protection.

Two coats of Micron CSC Bottom Paint.

Watertight collision bulkhead forward of forward cabin with independent overboard drainage.

Watertight Stern sections across aft lazarettes and stern locker.

Divided Anchor Locker with separate locker for fenders and docklines.

Large Aft Stern lazarettes, port and starboard with dual Bailey latches for watertight seal.

Stem Garage with dedicated Rule Auto bilge pump with manual over ride in cockpit.

Very Large Step Down Sail Locker with deck hatch access, 5' deep and over 4' long.

Solid Lead Keel with solid 35mm stainless steel keel bolts with transverse mounted 8mm backing plates.

Fully Skegged Rudder for optimal performance, strength and protection.

Bottom of rudder plane in each model above the keel plane for grounding safety.

Solid GRP fiberglass in all areas of deck for deck fittings and stress areas.

Molded contrasting non Skid available in two colors - Linen Beige or Whisper Grey.

Solid stainless steel head fitting with split bow roller with stowage for 55 lb Delta and 55 lb Rocna or Spade anchor.

Solid Stainless striker plates for bow protection.

Salt-water washdown pump for anchor washdown.

Two pair of stainless steel 12" bow cleats, one pair of 12" midship cleats and one pair of 12" stern cleats.

32" high stanchions, 1" in diameter with double lifelines.

Side Boarding ladder with port and starboard side mounting brackets.

Manship 316 stainless overhead hatches and ports throughout.

Winch inventory

Primary Winches           Antal CST 66's

Secondary Winches       Antal CST 54's

Mainsheet Winches        Antal CST 48

Cockpit Winches            Antal CST 48

Halyard Winches           Antal CST 48's

Harken Stand up Staysail Blocks.

Teak Handrails on foredeck coach roof and aft coach roof.

Stainless steel companionway handrails.

Stainless Coachroof handrails.

Whitlock "Hollywood" Pedestal that accomodates Raymarine E120 MFD and four 4" x 4" instruments.

Ritchie 5" Compass

Solid Teak varnished cockpit table with teak drink holders

Four solid stainless Cowl Vents.  One pair forward and one pair aft.

Stainless protective stern plate.

Freshwater hot and cold shower on stern platform.

Fold down stainless stem ladder.

Chainplate for optional inner forestay

Ground Tackle

WC 2200 Maxwell Nilsson Windlass with chain feed and stainless steel plate for chain protection. Bow controls AND remote cockpit windlass controls.

Primary Anchor and tackle: 250' System 40 3/8"Galvanized Hi tensile chain.

Secondary Anchor and tackle: 50' System 40 3/8" Hi tensile chain and 300' of 5/8" anchor rode with 55 lb Rocna

Four New England Rope Premium Braid Docklines: 2 x 35' x 5/8" and 2 x 40' x 5/8' premium braid.

Mechanical & Electrical

Yanmar BY150hp 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine with cockpit controls and complete alarm system.

Morse single lever control system to protect against high RPM gear shifting.

Dual Racor fuel filtration system allowing independent filter and bypass system.

Walborough in line fuel pump allowing engine bypass for filtration and eliminates the need for engine bleeding in the case of loss of fuel supply.

Two-way oil change pump plumbed diredtly to primary engine, genset, and transmission.

Wire is fully tinned and ABYC and CE compliant.

All thru hull fittings are solid bronze and all bonded .

Four AGM 8D House batteries, 840 amp/hr total, All batteries boxed and secured .

Two 8D House Batteries for Windlass and Bow Thruster (if equipped). 675 amp/hr total.

AGM 4D Engine starting battery 1x150 amp.

All batteries are isolated with a built in reverse isolation switch.

Primary High Output 130A Mastervolt Alternator dedicated to house bank. .

Dedicated 60A Alternator for Engine Battery. .

Fire retardant engine room sound insulation .

Shore power connection; 50/amp 125/250V.

Protech 50 amp built in battery charger.

Navigation lights; Running lights, Masthead anchor, Tricolor, Steaming light and Foredeck light.

Raymarine Depth sounder, Speed Log and Windspeed indicator.

Two independent bilge pump systems, one Rule system, one Par System. Total of 2500 gallon/hour with float switches.

Mamba Solid Drive sytem in lieu of chain and cable design

Rig & Rigging

Selden Anodized Aluminum Mast with triple V-spreader rig.

Hasselford Standing Rigging with Sta-lock Mechanical fittings. No swage fittings at deck.

Forward and Aft lowers for rig stability with individual chain plates.

Discontinuous Rigging for optimal strength and increased hardware.

Furlex 400 Series Roller Furling Forestay.

Doyle Sails including Mainsail and 135% Genoa with sunbrella cover.

Primary and secondary Main Halyard.

Primary and secondary Genoa Halyard.

Halyard Bales on forward dorades.

Plumbing & Tankage

275 Gallons of Total Water Tankage in four independent tanks.

280 Gallons of Total Fuel Tankage in four independent tanks.

Options available to increase and/or change balance of total and type of tankage.

All tanks have easy access for inspection with dipsticks, threaded inspection port and larger inspection.

Port for interior inspection and cleaning.

Two independent Shurflow self priming freshwater pump systems.

Third manual freshwater pump, foot activated for freshwater accessed in the galley.

All tankage for water and fuel is stainless stee.l

Two independent holding tanks, one dedicated to each head.

10 gallon hot water heater heated via engine driven system or AC supply.

All through hull fittings are bronze with seacocks or valves and bonded.

Bluewater Locations

• 14 - 18 Avenue Mirabeau
• 06600 Antibes
• [email protected]

Crew Placement and Crew Training

• 7 Boulevard d’Aguillon
• [email protected]
• [email protected]

Charter & Sales

• Level 21, Al Habtoor Business Towers
• Dubai Marina
• PO BOX 29805
• [email protected]

• Fort Lauderdale
• 750 West Sunrise Blvd.
• [email protected]

Administration

• Dominion Centre
• 43-59 Queen’s Road East
• [email protected]

• Sadovnicheskaya street 76/71
• [email protected]

‘La Belle Classe Crew Training

• Yacht Club de Monaco
• Quai Louis II
• [email protected]

• tel: +377 99 90 12 22

• Calle San Juan 4
• 07012 Palma de Mallorca
• [email protected]
• [email protected]

Crew Training

• [email protected]

Crew Placement

• [email protected]

Administration and Finance

• 2nd Floor, Baarerstrasse 14
• Switzerland
• [email protected]

• Embarking on a Seafaring Odyssey: Exploring the World of Bluewater Yachts and Cruising Sailboats

Are you ready to embark on a seafaring odyssey that will take you across the endless expanse of the open ocean? If the thought of navigating the deep blue waters on a luxurious boat has always been a dream, then you're about to set sail on an exciting journey. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into the captivating world of bluewater yachts, sailing on top-tier vessels, and the exhilarating thrill of ocean-going expeditions. Whether you're an experienced sailor seeking new horizons or a novice with a thirst for adventure, this article is your compass to the enchanting realm of maritime exploration.

Introduction

Imagine yourself standing at the helm of a majestic vessel, the wind whispering tales of distant shores, and the gentle rhythm of waves inviting you to set forth on a voyage of a lifetime. The allure of bluewater yachts encapsulates the essence of exploration, luxury, and freedom on the open sea.

Unveiling Bluewater Yachts: Masters of the Sea

Bluewater yachts are the maritime marvels designed to conquer the unpredictable waters of the open ocean. These vessels are engineered with a focus on resilience, safety, and comfort, making them the ultimate choice for those with a passion for venturing beyond the horizon.

Sailing Zenith: Reaching the Pinnacle of Seamanship

At the zenith of sailing prowess, a phenomenon known as the "sailing top" awaits the intrepid mariners. This pinnacle of seamanship represents the epitome of skill, where sailors harness the wind's energy to achieve unprecedented speed, precision, and navigational mastery.

Bluewater Yachts: Where Power Meets Elegance

The allure of bluewater yachts lies not only in their capacity to brave the open ocean but also in their opulent interiors and cutting-edge features. These vessels seamlessly blend power and elegance, offering a harmonious blend of performance and comfort.

Conquering the Vastness: Ocean-Going Yachts in Focus

Ocean-going yachts are the true conquerors of the sea, designed to tackle extensive journeys across the world's oceans. These vessels boast advanced technologies, robust construction, and top-notch safety measures, ensuring a smooth and secure passage, even in challenging conditions.

Oyster 56: A Symphony of Luxury and Performance

Amid the realm of bluewater yachts, the Oyster 56 stands as an emblem of sophistication and performance. With its impeccable balance of luxurious interiors and exceptional sailing capabilities, this yacht represents the zenith of modern maritime engineering.

Read   our  top  notch   articles  on  topics  such as  sailing ,  sailing   tips  and  destinations  in  our   Magazine .  

Navigating Blue Water Sailing: A Journey Beyond Horizons

Blue water sailing transcends the ordinary. It's a calling to embrace the unknown, revel in the ebb and flow of the tides, and cultivate a profound connection with nature. It's an experience that fosters self-discovery while immersing sailors in the grandeur of the world's oceans.

Market Insights: Bluewater Boats Await New Captains

For aspiring sailors, the market offers a treasure trove of bluewater boats, each with its unique blend of features and capabilities. From sleek sloops to robust ketches, these vessels cater to varying preferences and aspirations, ensuring a perfect match for every seafarer.

Sailing the UK Waters: Blue Water Yachts on Sale

In the United Kingdom, the dream of owning a bluewater yacht is well within reach. The market showcases an array of blue water yachts available for sale, providing enthusiasts with the opportunity to explore the British coastline and beyond in style.

The Bluewater Dilemma: Making the Perfect Choice

The decision to select the ideal bluewater yacht requires careful consideration. Factors such as size, layout, amenities, and budget play a pivotal role in ensuring that your chosen vessel aligns with your seafaring ambitions.

Sailing Redefined: Thriving Aboard a Blue Water Catamaran

The blue water catamaran introduces a paradigm shift in sailing dynamics. With enhanced stability, spacious living areas, and shallow-water accessibility, these vessels redefine comfort and freedom on the high seas.

Cruising Sailboats: Where Comfort and Exploration Intertwine

Cruising sailboats offer the best of both worlds: the thrill of exploration and the embrace of comfort. These vessels are thoughtfully designed with cozy interiors, expansive cabins, and efficient navigation systems, making extended voyages an absolute pleasure.

Ocean Sailboats: Harnessing Power with Grace

Ocean sailboats epitomize the harmony between human ingenuity and the raw power of nature. Crafted to navigate the vastness of the ocean, these vessels showcase the art of harnessing wind energy to propel them across boundless horizons.

Centre Cockpit Yachts: A Unique Perspective on Navigation

Centre cockpit yachts offer a fresh perspective on sailing. With their distinctive design placing the cockpit amidships, these vessels provide enhanced visibility, protection from the elements, and a strong connection between the sailor and the sea.

Ocean Sailing Essentials: Navigating the High Seas

Embarking on an ocean sailing adventure demands a comprehensive understanding of essential skills and knowledge. From celestial navigation to weather forecasting, mastering these elements is key to a successful and safe voyage.

Bluewater Yacht Lifestyle: Where Luxury Meets Freedom

The bluewater yacht lifestyle is synonymous with opulence, exploration, and liberation. It's a lifestyle that invites you to roam the world's most captivating destinations while indulging in the opulence of a meticulously designed yacht.

Navigating Choices: Finding Your Ideal Blue Water Cruiser

Selecting the perfect blue water cruiser involves aligning your aspirations with the characteristics of different vessels. Whether you prioritize speed, comfort, or versatility, there's a cruiser tailored to fulfill your maritime dreams.

Exploring Boundless Horizons: The Allure of Bluewater Yachts

In closing, the realm of bluewater yachts invites intrepid souls to embrace the call of the sea. The allure of navigating boundless horizons, the thrill of encountering nature's grandeur, and the serenity of sailing await those who are ready to embark on this extraordinary maritime journey.

So  what  are  you   waiting   for ?  Take  a  look   at   our   range   of  charter  boats  and  head  to  some   of   our  favourite     sailing   destinations .  

Faqs: bluewater yacht adventure: your questions answered.

Bluewater yachts are meticulously designed to handle long ocean voyages and challenging conditions, emphasizing durability, safety, and comfort.

Ocean-going yachts are best suited for experienced sailors due to their robust construction and advanced navigational systems.

The bluewater yacht lifestyle offers a unique blend of luxury, exploration, and the freedom to navigate the world's oceans at your leisure.

A perfect ride every time

Building the toughest, most balanced and smoothest riding center console fishing boats for over 27 years

The Bluewater Difference

For more than two decades, Bluewater Sportfishing Boats has established a reputation for building the toughest and best riding center consoles out there. Beyond superior performance and fishability, no two Bluewater boats are the same – with endless options and customizations, we’re able to build a boat to meet your unique wants and needs and make sure you get exactly what you want from your vessel. Let's talk numbers – our Bluewater model names follow the old rules, when boats were tough and built to be ran hard, before the corporations and marketers took over most boat companies. We don't include the bracket in our Length Overall (LOA) measurements. This means that our boats are seriously roomier and pack a bigger punch than their names might suggest. For example, the Bluewater 2850 with the bracket stretches to a whopping 31 feet. So when you're sizing things up, think of it as competing with the 31-footers from other brands. We've gone all in on quality during construction. We're talking premium materials and methods that might be more time-consuming, but the results speak for themselves. Unlike assembly-line production boats, our employees are skilled boat builders whose passion shows through the craftsmanship put into each vessel, setting us apart from the crowd. So whether you're aiming to conquer the open ocean or just chill on a sandbar, we're ready to make your Bluewater boat fit your lifestyle. From offshore expeditions to fun-filled family days snorkeling in crystal water, your Bluewater boat is a guarantee of good times ahead and designed to bring you joy for years on end. You’ve heard good things – now experience it for yourself

Offshore Models

Our offshore sportfishing boats are designed for serious anglers who seek big-game adventures. With spacious decks, advanced fish-finding technology, and comfortable amenities, these boats are your ticket to deep-sea success.

Inshore Models

For those who prefer inshore fishing, our lineup of versatile boats offers the agility and performance needed to navigate shallower waters while maintaining the same level of craftsmanship and innovation.

SeaKeeper Systems

Looking to upgrade your Bluewater for the smoothest ride you've ever experienced? Check out the Seakeeper RIDE

Boats to Last a Lifetime Join the bluewater family

Our Open Door Policy:  Step into our world of boat craftsmanship and experience the passion and precision that make our boats truly exceptional. Whether you call Florida home or will be traveling to see the shop, we extend a warm invitation for you to join us for a shop tour. Simply reach out to us via phone or email, and we'll ensure your visit is unforgettable.  Come be a part of the Bluewater Family.

Join our Owners Group

Don't just take our word for it - join over 8,400+ Bluewater fans in the Bluewater Owners Group on Facebook to learn more about our boats and the people living the Bluewater lifestyle.

upcoming events

In 2018 I shopped and sea trialed every boat in the 30’ class and the decision to purchase a 2850 Bluewater was easy. There is not another boat in this class that provides the cockpit space, range, and ride that we need to fish the Mid-Atlantic canyons.

We chose the 2350 Bluewater because it had the best ride in its class while offering the ability to carry a significant amount of scuba tanks and gear in the front fish box. We are continually impressed by the ride quality, fishability, and build quality of the 2350 Bluewater as we put this little boat through several tournaments a year.

We’ve always been confident in the boat and are constantly impressed with the ride and capability. There are simply no other builders currently making an offshore 21 footer that can compete in this category as far as size, ride, deadrise, closed transom and cockpit space, in deck boxes, and overall performance and build quality.

We started out with the 2550 Bluewater. We caught everything you can imagine on that boat from hundreds of Mahi, lots of Kingfish, Sailfish, and even a Blue Marlin. We ran the 2550 boat across to the Bahamas multiple times, and really enjoyed some of the Bluewater rendezvous, giving us a chance to meet many other proud Bluewater owners.

eXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

Bluewater cruising insurance – what you need to know

• April 13, 2022

Janneke Kuysters looks at bluewater cruising insurance and explains what you need to know and why it's become increasingly difficult to insure your yacht for long distance cruising

There’s no getting around the fact it has become a lot harder to get boat insurance, particularly bluewater cruising insurance. However, there are still ways to secure good coverage – you just need to know what makes insurers tick.

If you want to ruin any cruising sailors’ potluck party on a tropical beach, just drop in a question about boat insurance. Many boat owners have stories to tell. Just about every aspect of the process has become more complicated for bluewater cruising insurance, it takes a bigger chunk out of the cruising budget every year and the rising deductibles make it more and more tempting to go uninsured. So, what is going on in the market and how do you get proper insurance to match your cruising plans?

How bluewater cruising insurance works

First, let’s look at who you are dealing with when you try to get your yacht insured for a trip to the Med, the Caribbean or a circumnavigation.

The insurance company covers your yacht: they write the cheque when there are damages to it or when you’ve caused damage. All this depends on the conditions that you agreed to when taking the policy, but in general, you don’t deal with the insurance company directly when you try to get insurance for a bluewater itinerary. Unlike car insurance, boat insurance is a very specific product and it requires a tailor made approach. Most likely you’ll do business with a broker or an underwriting agent.

Uninsured yacht owners could face enormous salvage, repair and environmental damage costs if the worst should happen. Photo: Ben Welsh Premium/Alamy

The broker considers you, your boat and your plans and presents this ‘package’ to several insurance companies. A single insurance company may want to insure you, but it could also be a syndicate of insurers: each insurer accepting a certain percentage of the risk presented by your package.

There are different kinds of brokers; the difference lies in the amount of work they take off the hands of the insurance companies. If the broker is just helping you to get cover for your beautiful blue water itinerary, you’ll get a policy with the header of the insurance company. If the broker does a lot more work, for instance manning phone lines for 24/7 assistance and handling of claims, you may find their company name at the top of your policy. Brokers that take the most work off the hands of the insurers are called managing general agents (MGAs).

What has changed?

Why has it become more complicated to get yacht insurance for blue water voyages? Mike Wimbridge, managing director of Pantaenius UK, explains: “Yacht insurance for offshore itineraries has always been a tailor made market. And we see that, in recent years, there has been less appetite from the insurance companies when it comes to yacht insurance in general. For coastal cruising in UK waters, things are still fairly easy to insure. But for more bespoke risks like insuring a bluewater cruise, we see that the market is nervous.”

There are several reasons behind this change, Wimbridge says. “Up until 2017 this was a highly competitive market, so prices were as low as possible. It then became untenable for many insurers, especially when a few big windstorms tore through areas where lots of yachts were stored.

“Insurance companies and their reinsurance companies pulled out of the market, leaving a few behind who needed to safeguard their financial situation. So the premiums and deductibles rose. Things are stabilising now, but we still see slight increases annually.”

There are other factors at play. The effects of climate change mean extreme weather events happen more often.

Sailing off the beaten track can be challenging to insure. Photo: Janneke Kuysters

The typical consumer profile has also changed. In the past, yacht owners usually set off on passage armed with sextants, paper charts and a wealth of experience. Nowadays it has become a lot easier to get started – thanks to everything from computer-based navigation systems to powered sail handling – so owners can set off on a bluewater cruise with less experience.

At the same time, boats have become larger and potential claims more expensive: a single lightning strike can destroy tens of thousands of pounds worth of electronics, so it’s perhaps understandable insurers can be nervous to write bespoke policies.

However, there are signs that the market is rebalancing. Ric De Cristofano, director of underwriting with Topsail Insurance, says: “The good news is that the insurance market is cyclical: it will bounce back. I think we have the worst time behind us and we’ll see that insurers become more open to write policies for bluewater cruising yachts.”

How to get bluewater cruising insurance

If you are looking for insurance for a bluewater itinerary, Wimbridge says, “Getting a quote is getting harder and harder. You have to ‘pitch’ yourself, your boat and your plans to the insurer. The broker can help you to do this or you can select a carrier that has staff on hand who are experienced in this area. Things like your sailing CV, diplomas and those of your crew, previous long passages that you have successfully undertaken, and technical or managerial skills that will benefit your sailing, are very important to mention.

“When it comes to the boat: the more seaworthy, the better. There is no real threshold when it comes to boat value, but a well found yacht that is suitable for offshore cruising is paramount to get insurance.”

“We have added a maintenance log to our ‘pitch’ to get insurance,” say American cruisers Jason and Nicky Wynn (see gonewiththewynns.com). “This has added to the success of securing insurance for our boat.” Keep receipts and take photographs as proof of upgrades and repairs, and record a log of routine maintenance.

“The third element in your ‘pitch’ is your itinerary,” continues Wimbridge. “The Atlantic and Pacific are well-cruised areas where insurers can assess the risk they are writing. But if you’re heading around Cape Horn or further afield in the Indian Ocean, premiums will rise. So with your choice of itinerary you can influence the height of your premium and insurance conditions.”

Hurricane damaged yacht. Photo: Pantaenius

In general, insurers are not keen to cover your yacht if you sail in areas with a cyclone/hurricane risk. They have predefined areas and dates which are important to adhere to if you want to stay insured. You will also have a very hard time finding insurance to sail in areas with political instability, war or threats of terrorism. War Risk zones are internationally acknowledged areas where even large commercial ships pay breathtaking insurance premiums.

De Cristofano adds: “Start looking for an insurer at least six months before you plan to leave. Have a chat with your broker to see if they will be able to find insurers that will cover your itinerary. Give yourself ample time to put your ‘pitch’ together and to discuss possible alternatives with your insurer that will lead to a policy that fits your budget.

“It pays to negotiate about the deductible: if you are willing to accept a higher deductible, this may make a significant difference in the premium you will be paying, because it signals to the insurer that you have confidence in your yacht and your skills to maintain it properly.”

However, Wimbridge warns: “Price is not all; think of insurance as a partnership with the insurer. The cheapest policy may not do what you need it to do when you are in trouble on the other side of the planet. You need an insurer who has the knowledge and the capacity to get help to you where you are: spare parts, technical assistance or even worst case, salvage. A lot of the cheaper insurance options will require hiring a third party provider locally, which may present all sorts of cultural and language barriers. So look at the quality of the policy.”

Real world solutions

Bill Garlick is a well known name in the cruising community: many boat owners who have sailed to the other side of the world and run into trouble with their insurance get help from Bill at The Marina Shop in Opua, New Zealand.

“The marine insurance market had a monumental dislocation at the end of 2018 when many Lloyds pleasure craft syndicates closed their books,” Garlick explains. “The lost capacity created a worldwide shortage of marine insurance for pleasure craft. Cover was difficult to find and premiums started rising. Around 95% of our clients were insured with Lloyds at the end of 2018 and those now with Lloyds can be counted on one hand. A number of insurers stepped in to fill the abyss which meant brokers and clients had to deal with new policy wordings and cruising parameters. By the end of 2019 most clients were placed with new insurers.

Keeping a log of regular maintenance can be helpful. Photo: Janneke Kuysters

“A consequence of the contracting market is that marine insurers have tighter criteria and marine insurance is more difficult to secure. Older (30 years-plus), smaller (under 40ft) and low value boats (less than US$100,000) are difficult and sometimes impossible to insure. Standing rigging must be no more than 10 years old (a rig inspection and report is no longer acceptable), surveys are generally required when an insurer takes on a new risk unless the vessel is a relatively new factory production model.”

He adds: “Registration is now the key factor in securing marine insurance. Many insurers are not registered in all countries/jurisdictions so they can only offer cover to certain flags. Choosing a flag is now the decision that determines which – if any – insurers can offer terms.”

Claudia Masson, CEO of the specialised German yacht insurance broker Preuss, says Brexit has also had an impact on European brokers: “Since Brexit, it is no longer possible for us to insure a UK registered yacht with a UK owner. We’ve had to cancel all the policies of our UK clients; this has limited the amount of alternatives there are for UK boat owners.”

“Lightning, windstorm and saltwater damage to electronics and electrical systems are problematic,” adds Garlick. “Many marine insurers simply refuse to offer cover for these risks and others mitigate their exposure by offering high excesses/deductibles.”

Go uninsured?

Every year a number of cruising yacht owners decide to sail uninsured. There are several reasons for this, but usually it’s because of budget constraints or simply because they cannot find an insurer.

But there are considerable risks to going uninsured. First of all, some countries will not let you enter or leave without at least liability insurance – Panama being one example. The same applies to most harbours or marinas.

But the most important thing to consider when you sail uninsured is whether you can afford to lose your boat and equipment. Would being uninsured likely change your behaviour – would it make you less likely to issue a Mayday? In the case that you hit a reef, could you finance the cost of salvage and repairing environmental damage? Or the liability if you accidentally hit another yacht or a swimmer in the water?

“If you are considering sailing uninsured, there are insurers in the UK that will accept yachts for just the liability insurance,” says Ric De Cristofano of Topsail Insurance.

If you enjoyed this….

Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.

Safe Harbor Partners with Bluewater Yacht Sales

May 13, 2022 | Featured , News | 0 comments

Changed but Still the Same

The Jarrett Bay and Bluewater marina and service facilities joined the Safe Harbor network early in the Spring of 2022, and improvements to these properties are already underway. Although the names of these facilities have changed, customers will see the same familiar faces and that their top-notch services all remain.

Tate Lawrence will continue to run service operations in Beaufort, NC with the oversight of Safe Harbor Vice President of Operations Randy Ramsey and Regional Vice President Ron Gift. At Safe Harbor Bluewater, Guy Moorman, Bob Hoste, and Megan Rausch will be the General Managers of the facilities in Hampton, Wanchese, and Annapolis respectively. Reporting directly to Moorman in Hampton, Craig Messick will continue running operations at the service yard and Dave Farlow the marina.

Randy Ramsey and Jud Black will oversee the day-to-day operations and long-term growth of Bluewater Yacht Sales, while continuing to lead our current team members throughout management and the sales offices. As this relationship continues to evolve, the Bluewater Yacht Sales team is excited for the opportunities for our company and affiliates. If the past few months are any indication of the future, then we are at the beginning of something extraordinary.

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Home » Blog » Bluewater sailboats » The best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet (we analyzed 2,000 boats to find out)

The best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet (we analyzed 2,000 boats to find out)

By Author Fiona McGlynn

Posted on Last updated: August 17, 2023

What are the best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet?

Last year we analyzed 2,000 offshore designs to bring you a list of the most popular bluewater sailboats .

However, most people are searching for a boat in a particular size class. So, we decided to do a double-click and look at the best sailboats under 40 feet for offshore sailing.

If you’re interested in an even smaller boat, there are plenty of great options under 30 feet in our list of the best small sailboats for sailing around the world .

The characteristics that make a sailboat a bluewater sailboat are a hotly debated topic, so we wanted to use real-world data and find out what cruisers are using to cross oceans and sail around the world.

We looked at 2,000 boats that entered the Pacific Puddle Jump  (PPJ) over the last 12 years. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the PPJ, it’s a rally that crosses the Pacific ocean.  We took part in 2017 and had a ball!

Also, if you’re looking to buy one of the bluewater boats on this list, you might want to check out our post on the best places to buy used boats and how to find free or cheap boats for sale .

Just be aware that a bluewater boat isn’t necessarily offshore-ready. Our top five picks are all older boats and will undoubtedly require work.

Every cruiser we know made substantial repairs and additions before going offshore: adding watermakers , life rafts, solar panels, and more.

Also, always have a boat inspected by a professional and accredited marine surveyor before buying it or taking it offshore.

So, without further preamble, here are the best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet.

The best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet

1. the westsail 32.

The Westsail 32 is one of the most iconic bluewater cruisers. Built by the Westsail Corporation in the 1970s, this plucky, small sailboat has developed a cult following over the decades. Since 2009, 19 have set out to cross the Pacific in the PPJ rallies.

The Westsail 32 is known for its sturdy construction, seaworthiness, and classic looks. In fact, it set the standard for what a real bluewater cruiser should look like. In 1973, the Westsail 32 was featured in Time magazine and inspired many Americans to go cruising.

Though popular, this boat has earned the unenviable nickname “ Wetsnail 32″, a reference to its poor ability to windward and sluggish performance. But Westsail 32 owners don’t care that they won’t be winning any races.

What the boat lacks in speed it makes up for in classic looks and excellent offshore cruising characteristics. Many owners have crossed oceans and circumnavigated the globe in their Westsail 32s.

2. Tayana 37

The Tayana 37 is a wildly popular Bob Perry design. It first rolled off the production line in 1976 and there are now several hundred of them sailing the world’s oceans.

Above the waterline, the Tayana 37 boasts beautiful traditional lines. However, Perry wanted to avoid the unenviable (read: sluggish) performance characteristics, associated with double-enders.

So, he designed the Tayana 37 with a cut-away long keel and moderate displacement, maintaining the classic look, while achieving reasonable performance.

The Tayana 37 has a devoted following of offshore enthusiasts. Since 2009, 12 Tayana 37s have set out to cross the Pacific in the PPJ rallies.

Read more about the Tayana 37 in this Practical Sailor review .

3. Hans Christian 38T

The Hans Christian 38T is a full-keeled, heavy displacement bluewater boat with a long bowsprit and a clipper bow, giving it a distinctive appearance. It was first introduced in 1976 and was produced until the early 1990s.

If you hadn’t already guessed, the “T” in the name stands for “Traditional”. Like many boats on this list, it takes a cue from Crealock’s famous Westsail 32 which sparked a craze in the 1970s and 80s for Scandinavian-style doubled-enders.

It’s gained a reputation as a capable and seaworthy cruising yacht. Many owners have crossed oceans and completed circumnavigations in Hans Christian 38Ts.

By our count, eight Hans Christian 38Ts have participated in Pacific Puddle Jump rallies over the last 12 years.

4. Island Packet 380

I’ve always considered Island Packets the Rolls-Royce of the bluewater boat world. Their distinctive cream-colored topsides make them easy to spot and their robust bluewater construction makes them the envy of many far-flung anchorages.

Designed by Bob Johnson and built by Island Packet Yachts in Florida, the Island Packet 380 was first introduced in 1998. 169 were built before 2004, over which time it gained a reputation as a capable and comfortable offshore cruiser.

Having been built in the ’90s and early 2000s, this is a relatively newer boat. In many ways, it offers the best of both worlds, a classic-looking boat with all the modern cruising conveniences.

The Island Packet 380 design prioritizes safety and stability. It also has several offshore features including standard twin bow rollers, a divided anchor locker, and ample storage for cruising gear.

Life below deck is comfortable too. With a 13-foot (4 meter) beam there’s plenty of room for liveaboard amenities.

The Island Packet 380 is a popular choice for long-distance cruising and offshore passages. Since 2009, six Island Packet 380s have set out to cross the Pacific in PPJ rallies.

Read more about the Island Packet 380 in this review by Yachting Monthly .

5. Ingrid 38

The Ingrid 38 is a double-ended sailboat that was originally designed for wood construction in 1938.

In 1971, Bluewater Boat Co. began building a fiberglass version. The design proved hugely popular and more than 140 were built.

With a full keep and heavy displacement, the Ingrid 38 epitomizes the traditional bluewater cruiser. Yet, it remains a well-loved design today. Since 2009, six Ingrid 38s have set out to cross the Pacific in PPJ rallies.

Description

Fiona McGlynn is an award-winning boating writer who created Waterborne as a place to learn about living aboard and traveling the world by sailboat. She has written for boating magazines including BoatUS, SAIL, Cruising World, and Good Old Boat. She’s also a contributing editor at Good Old Boat and BoatUS Magazine. In 2017, Fiona and her husband completed a 3-year, 13,000-mile voyage from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia on their 35-foot sailboat.

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