What Is a Sailboat?

A sailboat is a boat whose propulsion is derived from the force of wind blowing on its sails. It may also be powered by engine, generator, or by other means.

The word sailboat has been in use since the 16th century, when it was first used to refer to ships with a single mast. The word carries with it the image of a graceful vessel, and it’s not surprising that many people dream of sailing one someday.

There are plenty of things to love about living on a sailboat full-time. Spotting dolphins frolicking in the water, watching sunrises and sunsets, and the millions of shades of blue that dance across the sea are all incredible experiences. But there are some things that you must prepare for before embarking on a long trip on a sailboat.

These include the need to learn mechanical skills and the fact that a boat isn’t always a place where you can take a long hot shower every day (especially on trips lasting more than a few days). Additionally, it’s common for annual maintenance costs to add up to 10-20% of a boat’s purchase price – particularly when a sailboat is owned by an individual rather than an institution.

When deciding on a sailboat to buy, you’ll need to determine what kind of sailor you want to be and what your biggest sailing goals are. Then you can choose a boat that’s well-suited to your goals. The type of sailboat you decide on will also have a big impact on your experience.