SAILING SKILLS Big dreams

Over the last couple of decades, we’ve seen cruising yachts get longer and wider, and more owners trading up to these more modern designs. Marinas have had to respond by creating bigger berths and there seem to be fewer 25 to 35 footers being sold new.

Traditionally, many people started sailing in dinghies, then moved up to a small cabin cruiser, and subsequently upgraded to a larger boat as experience, families and budgets grew. Now, we are also seeing a regular trend of first-time cruiser owners being attracted straight into buying the larger 50 to 60ft+ yachts.

At Universal Yachting sea school and yacht sales we’ve observed that this new breed of owner is usually coming from a different place. Often with busy professional lives, the dream to own a yacht starts to become a reality towards the latter part of their careers. They are attracted by the larger, more sumptuous yachts which tick both the creature comfort and aspirational boxes. Modern yachts are generally easier to sail, and the spacious cockpits and luxurious living areas below decks means these boats have