Concerto
Well-known member
I sail singlehanded on a Westerly Fulmar, which at 32ft and being ¾ rigged, is very easy to handle. Sailing singlehanded is easy if all the controls are in the cockpit and you have a powerful autopilot. All my winches are oversize and self tailing.
The difficult bit is the first and last 100 metres or in other words close handling and berthing. Whatever boat you buy, to gain confidence get some training to master berthing. Planning ahead will help avoid many problems, Over time you will gain experience of how your boat handles in particular situations and adds to your confidence. Berthing in any marina, you should be able to ask for a marina staff member to assist your berthing.
Personally I would advise to buy the smallest boat that provides the accomodation to suit your wife. As you go larger then costs escalate for berthing, maintenance plus, you need more strength for sail handling and lifting things like sails, ropes and fenders.
As to size you should find what you like within the 32 to 36ft range. Personally I prefer a tiller as the cockpit is not divided by a wheel and you can steer with it between your legs whilst winching. I also prefer a shaft driven propeller over a sail drive, more because the propeller is closer to the rudder which can assist in berthing using prop wash. This is something you cannot do with twin rudders, so try and avoid them.
Bellinos, you should provide some more information as to where you intend to sail, your rough budget, expected cruising range, your accomadation must haves and your age group so forum members are better able to advise.
Just to show what you can do singlehanded, have a look at this video of mine sailing singlehanded under spinnaker.
The difficult bit is the first and last 100 metres or in other words close handling and berthing. Whatever boat you buy, to gain confidence get some training to master berthing. Planning ahead will help avoid many problems, Over time you will gain experience of how your boat handles in particular situations and adds to your confidence. Berthing in any marina, you should be able to ask for a marina staff member to assist your berthing.
Personally I would advise to buy the smallest boat that provides the accomodation to suit your wife. As you go larger then costs escalate for berthing, maintenance plus, you need more strength for sail handling and lifting things like sails, ropes and fenders.
As to size you should find what you like within the 32 to 36ft range. Personally I prefer a tiller as the cockpit is not divided by a wheel and you can steer with it between your legs whilst winching. I also prefer a shaft driven propeller over a sail drive, more because the propeller is closer to the rudder which can assist in berthing using prop wash. This is something you cannot do with twin rudders, so try and avoid them.
Bellinos, you should provide some more information as to where you intend to sail, your rough budget, expected cruising range, your accomadation must haves and your age group so forum members are better able to advise.
Just to show what you can do singlehanded, have a look at this video of mine sailing singlehanded under spinnaker.