What Is A Small Sailing Boat Called?

A dinghy is a small sailboat typically between 8 to 15 feet in length, with some being slightly larger. These boats can be powered by a motor, sailed with a removable mast, or moved with oars. Most small sailboats under 20 feet are time-tested, easy to rig, and perfect for solo sailing or with friends and family. Common types of small sailboats include dinghies, daysailers, sloops, and catamarans.

Dinghy sailing is a bit different from traditional bluewater sailing, as it is smaller, easier to launch and sail, and requires fewer crew members to operate. They are popular in youth sailing programs for their short LOA, simple operation, and minimal maintenance. Some of the best small sailboats for beginners include boats with tillers steering, boats with no winches, sailing dinghies, small sloops, small catamarans, rotomolded boats, trailerable sailboats, and multihull (catamarans and trimarans).

Daysailers, also known as dayboats, are larger than sailing boats. The Optimist dinghy, also known as the Opti, is a globally recognized sailboat that has introduced countless young sailors to the sport. A sailboat is a relatively small boat that uses wind power to propel it forward, and when the wind is strong enough, sailboats can move very quickly. Cruising in sailing boats is by far the most popular activity and is enjoyed in many locations.