For over 18 years since the debut of the first Elan Impression model, the Impression line has held a significant position in the family cruising segment. These vessels, often dubbed “modern classics,” have earned multiple awards and are widely recognized for their reliability, ease of maintenance and sailing, safety, rigidity, and durability. They have become synonymous with the idea of enjoying a worry-free, relaxing time on the water while exploring the world with family and friends. Some have even successfully circumnavigated the globe with minimal crew. Additionally, they have remained a favored choice for many investors due to their stable value retention in the world’s largest charter markets.

Although the Elan Impression models have undergone several iterations, redesigns, and modernizations, it has been a considerable amount of time since a completely new Elan Impression model has been introduced. Following the successful launches of the unique Elan GT6 and ambitious Elan E6, the decision was made to unveil a brand-new yacht to carry on the Impression Line’s legacy. Meet the Elan Impression 43, which scored a nomination for “Best Luxury Midsize Cruiser” in CW’s 2024 Boat of the Year competition.

Featuring a modern wide-beam hull, the Impression 43 offers more space compared to its predecessors. It maintains the traditional raised coach roof, referred to as a “semi-deck-salon,” and stands up well against its competitors. The hull and sail plan were designed by Humphreys Yacht Design, promising strong sailing characteristics, even when fully loaded.

Collaborating with the design studio Pininfarina, responsible for the award-winning Elan E6, resulted in appealing aesthetics for the Elan Impression 43.

The hull and sail plan have been optimized to facilitate easy short-handed sailing. Elan’s customary 3D VAIL composite technology has been employed, creating a lightweight, sturdy, and secure construction process. This technology utilizes a vacuum-assisted infusion lamination process (VAIL) to produce a flawless hull without imperfections or air bubbles, coupled with a vinyl ester outer layer to ensure osmosis resistance. The “3D” aspect of this lamination is applied to the vertical and lateral stringers, enhancing the mechanical properties of the hull and rigging, contributing to Elan’s acclaimed hull stiffness. The deck also employs VAIL technology, adding to its lightness and durability. This construction process is not only advantageous for the vessel but also promotes worker safety and reduces environmental impact by minimizing chemical exposure and waste.

The yacht has twin rudders designed by Humphreys Yacht Design, ensuring rigidity, endurance, and precise control. This twin-rudder design facilitates fingertip steering and reduces the risk of broaching.

The cockpit is designed for enjoyment, both at anchor and underway. With ample seating for up to 10 people, comfort is a priority. An optional modular cockpit table can convert into two sunbeds, allowing for lounging and sunbathing in the cockpit. Beautifully designed steering pedestals accommodate 9-inch electronics and a variety of other instruments. The twin helm with composite steering wheels provides freedom of movement aboard.

Numerous cockpit lockers offer ample space for a life raft and other essential equipment. Integrated into the deck are two transom boxes, expanding the seating area for the skipper and guests, and capable of holding a grill and a refrigerator. The yacht comes standard with a small bathing platform that can be upgraded to a larger platform, offering more space, safety, and a closed transom feel. Elan’s iconic transom seats, a hallmark of the Impression line, add a nice touch. The deck can be customized with synthetic or real teak, based on the owner’s preferences. Large, flush hatches and portlights in the coach roof bring in natural light and good ventilation. The yacht comes with a standard self-tacking jib, which can be upgraded to a genoa, among other options.

Moving to the interior, it boasts a “rustic” oak veneer and marine-grade plywood, contrasted with modern gray-colored storage cupboards. To enhance durability, solid oak wood finishes are applied to areas that are subject to the most wear and tear. The salon comfortably seats guests around a center table, flanked by two solid wood chairs that can be stowed in a dedicated space when sailing. The settee can also be easily converted into a double berth.

The long side-galley has a three-ring stove with an oven and a front-opening refrigerator within a convenient L-shaped cabinet. This layout offers abundant surface space and cupboards for storage. The stove area is protected by easy-to-clean panels and is ventilated by a hatch above. Owners can choose between three- or four-cabin versions. The three-cabin version includes an en-suite with an island bed and a spacious head with a separate shower. Opting for the four-cabin version introduces a cabin with bunk beds, ideal for families or groups of friends.

Elan Impression 43 Specifications

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Renewing a popular model is always a daunting task, especially when it’s been a bestseller for almost a decade, as was the case with the Oceanis 38.1. The challenge laid before the designers, Marc Lombard and Nauta Design, was clear: enhance volume and boost performance while preserving the ease of use that has defined the Oceanis line since its inception in 1986.

Beyond the elegant profile, the 37.1’s interior space in the salon is nearly as generous as that of a 40-foot vessel. The hull features a distinctive flare with a rib beneath, not only maintaining graceful lines below the waterline but also delivering increased power and stability. This design tweak also enhances the hull’s structural integrity, adeptly managing weight distribution and creating more interior space in the bow area.

Stepping inside the salon, we find a clever layout, slightly offset to port. It offers tremendous volume, complete with a cozy sofa and a spacious dining table accommodating six. This configuration seamlessly faces the galley, allowing the crew to go about their tasks without disrupting the dining area. Meanwhile, the passageway to the forward cabin is set off, completely obtrusive to guests. Generously sized portholes integrated into the hull side of the forward cabin provides excellent visibility and natural light. In the two-bathroom version, the bed is positioned against the starboard hull. The aft accommodations are equally spacious. In the standard version, there’s a king-size double bed and a substantial sail locker aft of the bathroom, accessible from both inside and out. Even in the three-cabin version, the bedding remains well-proportioned.

The sense of interior volume extends to the expansive and remarkably open cockpit, stretching over three meters in length. The outdoor living areas are designed to create a sense of openness, with a deliberate lack of backstays—a configuration previously employed on the Oceanis 30.1 and 34.1 models. When at anchor, access to the swim platform is easy. Simply lift the helm seats, and a broad walkway leads to the lowered platform, ensuring safety and making it a perfect spot for swimming and watching the world go by.

The large double spreaders (optionally equipped with an in-mast furling system) suggest impressive sailing performance for the Oceanis 37.1. In the standard version with a self-tacking jib, the focus is on making sailing more effortless, while those who relish spirited sailing will adore the First Line version with its square-top mainsail and Genoa (providing an additional 12 percent sail area). To facilitate easy handling by a smaller crew, all the rigging has been directed towards the two aft winches, with only the halyards remaining grouped around the coachroof. All the essential instruments, including a 7-inch plotter, are conveniently located on the starboard helm console.

In a nod to sustainability, the Oceanis 37.1 incorporates Iroko, an African wood that can substitute for teak, for its cockpit decking. This innovative approach, known as Iro-Deck, utilizes laminated layers to create each strip of plywood decking. This method ensures uniform coloration, excellent durability, and eliminates the risk of cracks, a common issue with solid wood decks.

Adapting to contemporary environmental challenges, the design team also addressed the 37.1’s power source. With a growing interest in carbon-free sailing for inland waterway cruising, this model offers an electric engine option featuring a 12 kW pod and 10 kilowatt-hour batteries. This setup provides a motoring range of 2 hours at 5 knots between charges, all while emitting no carbon and maintaining an eco-friendly silence.

Beneteau Oceanis 37.1 Specifications

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Built by sailors for sailors, the Vision 444 was inspired, according to the builder, by thousands of miles spent at sea understanding the demands of a vessel and her crew, years of experience building custom catamarans, and a passion to produce the perfect bluewater cruiser. Boatbuilder James Turner and Vision Yachts have created this 44’4” lightweight performance vessel with unique features and an impressive standard inventory that sets this catamaran above the rest.

The Vision 444 is constructed with an innovative resin infusion technology with all support struts and davits made from advanced composite and integrated into the hull to create a strong yet lightweight vessel. Key features of the 444 suggest that form follows function. All furniture is structurally bonded to the hull in an ergonomic design. Midship service lockers in each hull offer easy access to shut-off valves, filters, sea strainers, and pumps. Two bilges line each hull, one in the service locker and one in the engine room. Fuel line hoses and electrical wiring have their own dedicated conduits. The lithium ion batteries are under the salon seats, and the engines are under the bunks, allowing safe and easy access. A bench seat in the engine room with dedicated tools, storage for spare parts, ventilation, and lighting make servicing the engines a breeze. Access to the rudder system is in the starboard stern locker. Every locker has ample space for access or storage, and a room in the starboard bow (accessed through the master shower walk-through) contains a complete work bench with a vice and additional storage. And, exhale…

The interior is equally functional, and with a healthy dollop of form mixed in. All windows and hatches in the salon provide superb vision of the horizon. From the forward-facing navigation station in the salon, GPS can link up to the TV for a Spielberg-sized chart-plotter display. Flooring is flush throughout and an L-shaped door between the cockpit and salon doubles the space while open and offers an alfresco ambiance. In the salon, the U-shaped settee is standard with leather. Windows are single-panel flat glass. All vertical finishes are quarter sawn reconstructed oak veneer with an oil finish, which is easy to maintain or to replace without matching wood grains if needed. Quartz composite countertops with stainless steel refrigerator/freezer and all high-end appliances surrounded by stainless grab rails throughout yield a dual sense of openness and safety when underway.

On deck, the side access door is great for boarding, loading and accessibility. Wide, level decks are clear of all running rigging, and the flush mount hatches allow the crew to move around safely. Two standard electric winches and running rigging led back to the helm provide ease of operation for single-handed sailing. The mainsheet bridle system (eliminating the traveler and tracks) is simple to use in conjunction with the self-tacking jib. Atkinson’s-theory-calibrated rudders help to maintain drive when tacking and jibing. The working helm seating for two has a commanding position with a view over both bows and 360-degree visibility.

The deck sole in the cockpit, and on the side decks and foredeck is EVA foam padding, a UV resistant material that is resilient—like a high-quality yoga mat with grip. The cockpit has ample seating with a large teak table. Stainless steel tubing that retracts into the transom bulkhead provides additional safety at sea.

“A sense of certainty in any sailing vessel begins with strength” says a Vision Yachts representative. “We use an innovative resin infusion and gel-coat technology to form the Vision 444’s durable hulls. Decks are extra-tough while still maintaining impressive performance due to the weight-saving process. The result is a better, lighter, faster, stronger and safer vessel which will hold its investment value longer.”

Vision 444 Specifications

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The Berret-Racoupeau-designed Hanse 460 turned heads as a 2022 Boat of the Year nominee with a fresh take on comfort and volume but with an eye better sailing performance. The second model in the new range designed by the Berret-Racoupeau team, the Hanse 510 is set to make its US premiere at the 2023 Annapolis Sailboat Show—again as a Boat of the Year contender. From what our editors saw at the model’s recent showing in Cannes, the 510 is expected to be a formidable opponent in its category during CW’s Boat of the Year judging.

As for dockside demeanor, this new range’s calling card appears to be a marked chine on the bow and an inverted bow to optimize sailing performance. According to the designers, attention was also paid to refining the hull shape to maximize interior space. The result is an easy-on-the-eyes 51-footer that values smooth sailing and fast, comfortable cruising.

According to the builder, the Hanse 510 offers unrivalled volume in the 50-foot class, courtesy of an optimized hull design. Chines at the bow and aft further allow for a slim waterline, ensuring prime performance and easy sailing.

The 510 is equipped with a large, practical dinghy garage, capable of holding an inflated dinghy of up to 8.8 feet; and the optional, newly developed Hanse Smart Tender System makes launching that dinghy as simple as “driving a car out of the garage.” Convenience and style dominate the interior. Even the crew cabin gets in on the volume action, as it’s much more than the typical (read: small) crew sleeping space—it is a room worthy of staying a while. The options list is lengthy, and the boat can be highly customized to meet owners’ needs.

“Expectations were high after the outstandingly successful Hanse 460, which has been awarded European Yacht of the Year,” says Hanjo Runde, CEO of HanseYachts. “The new Hanse 510 is the logical and consistent further development of the new concept. With her impressive volume, tremendously dynamic lines and countless options, she is redefining the 50-foot class. It is an easy to sail and enormously spacious private retreat.” 

The key talking points of the 510 are numerous. A hydrodynamic design with a slender waterline promotes better hull speed. Chines fore and aft allow for a wider hull and more interior space. The reverse, wave-piercing bow makes the yacht pitch less in strong winds, while the pronounced bow chines keep the foredeck as dry as possible. On deck, the strategically placed helm position promotes total control of the Hanse 510 in any situation, with all navigation and performance information easily accessible, as well as all lines and even the electric winches on the port side. An optional hardtop shades the entire cockpit including the steering positions, and it blends seamlessly with the boat’s silhouette. It is also available in several colors and accommodates special lighting and solar panels. A fixed windscreen is another option. 

The novel dinghy garage is capable of holding a dinghy of up to 8.8 ft without having to deflate it. Combined with the optional automatic comfort stairs and the newly developed Hanse Smart Tender System, a single crew member can safely and comfortably deploy the dinghy, including engine, in minutes.

Another novelty on the Hanse 510 is the easy-to-open life raft storage space in the cockpit. Situated just in front of the companionway, it’s easily accessible and has space for standard 8-person life raft containers. An optional wet bar with grill and sink is hinged at the stern so as not to absorb precious cockpit space. 

The boat comes rigged with a self-tacking jib, and all lines run back to the cockpit for simple sail handling of the 710 sq. ft. mainsail and various headsails. The jib is 570 sq. ft. and the reacher measures 1,011 sq. ft., set up using a Solent-style rig on the custom bowsprit. Air draft of the deck-stepped mast is just over 77 feet above the waterline. Optional electric furling systems and winches make light work of handling halyards and sheets for the optimum in performance, short-handed sailing. The standard boat comes with a single, 80 hp saildrive, although an upgraded, optional 110 hp diesel is also available.

Within the interior, 14 well positioned opening hatches and eight opening windows and portholes permit maximum light and ventilation below deck. A long list of layout options are said to be available for the interior arrangement, from an “owner’s yacht” with a best-in-class sized master cabin, to a “charter yacht” with 10 berths, three bathrooms and an additional skipper cabin. The galley can be fully adapted to the owner’s needs as well: In addition to various refrigerator and freezer options, there is room for a wine cooler, dishwasher and a three-burner gas cooker plus an oven in the longitudinal pantry, which can be customized with a vast choice of colors and materials. Another option is a fully equipped navigation area with a forward-facing seat and a large salon table. The extensive options list, ranging from a washing machine in the utility room to flatscreens in the master cabin and salon, is crowned by the Flagship Package, which includes highest-end fabrics and materials, not to mention a “hidden” bar behind the folding backrest in the salon.

At its core, the Hanse 510 emphasizes a roomy cockpit, large but manageable sail plan, and overall performance that is easily managed by a couple, but perhaps what really sets the Hanse 510 apart from other sailboats in its class is the limitless level of customization the builder is willing to offer. The Hanse 510 also comes with a CE rating of A-12, so it is well suited for those who want to venture longer distances. 

Hanse 510 Specifications

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Over the past several years, Jason and Nikki Wynn have become an internet sensation of sorts, documenting their ‘round the world cruising endeavors on their sailing YouTube channel “Gone with the Wynns,” which has grown to over a half a million subscribers, becoming the third most popular (and growing) sailing channel on YouTube today. Beginning this fall, they’ll be broadcasting their adventures from the decks of a sweet new ride—the eco-conscious and carbon-reinforced HH44 by HH Catamarans.

Poised to appeal to early tech adopters, world cruisers and serious sailors alike, the HH44 is a disruptive new entry in the catamaran market, and it’s ready to make waves as a strong 2024 Boat of the Year contender at its US premiere in Annapolis. 

This new model from HH Catamarans is available in two versions: OC (Ocean Cruising) and SC (Sports Cruising). The HH44-OC is a fast, comfortable, family-friendly cruiser that skews toward ease of operation for bluewater cruising. It shares the same hull and interior fit and finish quality as the sportier HH44-SC but features an aluminum mast, e-glass longeron, white gelcoat finish and mini-keels as standard instead of daggerboards. The HH44-SC integrates the very latest in race boat technology but remains equally as comfortable as a family cruiser. This is a “no-compromise-boat” with C-shaped carbon daggerboards, a carbon rig, a painted hull finish, emissions-free motoring, cutting-edge solar integration and an EcoDrive as standard equipment.

Designed for hybrid propulsion and solar power, the HH44 was conceived from the ground up to work with a parallel electric/diesel hybrid, a 4,232 watt solar array on the cabin top and hydro-regeneration while sailing. HH’s EcoDrive provides all the benefits of an electric boat: silent fume-free motoring at 7.5kts, instant torque for maneuvering, and hydro-regeneration while sailing, while also providing the reliability of trusty diesel engines as a backup. For technology shy owners, traditional standalone diesel engines with shaft drives are also offered.

The 4,232 watts of custom integrated solar come standard, as does an electric parallel hybrid with shaft drives, folding transoms, dual swing helm stations, forward opening salon windows, line tunnels, EVA foam decking and carbon fiber design detailing throughout.

Steer the boat from the outboard position with the wind in your hair and increased visibility of your sail plan. A fold-down helm seat stows out of the way or easily deploys when needed. Or, rotate the helm(s) inboard and steer from the protection of the three-seat sofa on the aft beam.

An angular cabin allows the two large, forward-facing windows to open fully from inside the 187 square-foot salon. Ceiling height is over 6’6” throughout. Comfort underfoot has been enhanced with non-skid EVA foam decking as standard.

Carbon and epoxy construction creates the strongest yacht possible without adding weight. All lines run under the deck to create an uncluttered walkway. Stanchions are 900mm tall for safety underway, and a continuous, unbroken toe rail runs the length of the deck with all hull and deck-joints fused and hidden.

An emphasis on craftsmanship and fit-and-finish is evident throughout, with foam core furniture and meticulous joinery, top of the line fixtures and Bosch electric appliances standard. Cabinet locks are cleverly hidden in the modern design and an optional pocket TV can deploy and spin to face the viewer. Optional RGB rope lighting throughout can be dimmed or change colors depending on your vision needs while night sailing or for setting the mood at anchor.

HH Catamarans HH44 Specifications

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For nearly 25 years, Cruising World’s annual Boat of the Year program has been the recognized leader in inspecting, testing and rewarding the best sailboats introduced into the US market by boatbuilders the world over. 

Over the course of this year, fifteen boats were thoroughly vetted and received official nominations for 2024 Boat of the Year contention. Judging and testing for the awards will take place during and after the Annapolis Sailboat Show in Annapolis, Maryland, which begins October 12. 

Beneteau Oceanis 37.1

Dufour 41

Elan Impression 43

Hanse 510

HH Catamarans 44

Jeanneau 55

Vision 444

Herb McCormick

Over the course of his career as a sailor and yachting journalist, award-winning marine writer Herb McCormick has written hundreds of boat reviews and raced and cruised tens of thousands of miles, including the Newport Bermuda Race, the Sydney-Hobart Race, the Pacific Cup and the Transpac. His offshore resume includes a voyage to Antarctica, a successful transit of the Northwest Passage, and two roundings of Cape Horn. The author of five nautical books, he’s owned and maintained several sailboats, including his current Pearson 365 and Pearson Ensign. As a Boat of the Year judge, he concentrates on sailing performance, safety, and deck layouts.

Mark Pillsbury

Mark Pillsbury is a die-hard sailor who has owned and maintained a number of sailboats, including a Sabre 34, on which he lived aboard for 15 years in various harbors around Rhode Island’s Narragansett Bay. He has been involved with Cruising World’s Boat of the Year program in various roles for many years and has reviewed scores of new sailboats for the magazine. He is currently a Cruising World editor-at-large. As a judge, his purview is interior plans, systems and build quality.

Tim Murphy

Longtime CW contributor, editor-at-large and award-winning marine journalist and author Tim Murphy currently serves as education project manager with the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC). Having been involved with ABYC since 1998, Murphy supported the rollout of ABYC’s Marine Electrical Certification; designed and edited ABYC certification study guides as a contractor; and co-authored (with Ed Sherman) Fundamentals of Marine Service Technology, a marine-trades textbook for secondary and post-secondary education. Now a full-time staff member, Murphy has taken on the role of education project manager to oversee the creation of ABYC curriculum and certification materials, and other key responsibilities to grow ABYC’s technical education and content creation capabilities.

2023 Overall Winning Boats of the Year

In ideal conditions on Chesapeake Bay, a taut fleet of 17 contestants vied for top honors in the 2023 edition of Cruising World’s annual Boat of the Year competition.

Best Midsize Cruiser

It was terrific to see a trio of boats in the mid-30-foot division, but also to discover that all three yachts in the class were exemplary sailboats.

Best Performance Cruiser

This division truly lived up to its name, with a solid lineup of five nominees that lit up under sail.

Best Cruising Multihull

The popularity of boats with more than one hull, especially catamarans, is more evident with each passing year.

Best Full-Size Cruiser

This Euro-centric class had one important factor in common: The sailing performance across the quartet was top-notch.

Judges’ Special Recognition

As deliberations wrapped up Cruising World’s team of expert judges handed out two more prizes to boats that stood apart from the fleet.

Meet the Judges

This year’s team of judges put 17 sensational new models through their paces, under multiple points of sail and power, after dockside inspections in Annapolis, Maryland.

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In the maritime world, an enduring bond is forged between boaters and their trusted vessels, steeped in shared stories and cherished memories. Yet, amid this reverence for tradition, the arrival of new-boat models ignites an undeniable thrill. While older boats embody history, new builds bring the allure of innovation, cutting-edge technology and visionary design, beckoning enthusiasts to dream anew. 

The following pages offer a preview of significant launches you’re likely to stumble across on the docks this fall and in the coming year. Several of these vessels are scheduled to be included in the judging for Cruising World’s 2024 Boat of the Year. You can follow the URLs for a deeper dive into boats that pique your interest, and inspect them in person at a show near you or at private showings arranged by dealers. 

Bali Catsmart 38

Designed by Piaton Yacht Design, the Catsmart (pictured above) offers comfort and relaxation with a spacious galley, an ­ergonomic chart table, and panoramic sea views from a well-lit, open space. This 38-footer maintains the brand’s signature features, such as the Bali door and the rigid deck of the forward cockpit. There are twin helm stations for easy sailing maneuvers, and the layout is well-suited for leisure sailing and family time at anchor. As the smallest model in the Bali catamarans range, it incorporates the brand’s latest innovations: The Catsmart has a forward cockpit with lounging and sunbathing areas, a platform connecting the transoms with seating and stowage, a practical davit system, and sliding side windows that open to create an entertaining space that spans the galley, salon, and cockpit. bali-catamarans.com

Contest 49CS/50CS

After a pandemic pause, Contest Yachts has reemerged with two new models, both drawn by judel/vrolijk & co. The Contest 49CS and 50CS are both 50-foot sailboats but with quite ­different layouts. The 49CS has spacious twin staterooms aft, a rarity in this size ­sailboat, while the ­center-­cockpit 50CS replaces its predecessor, emphasizing boathandling and stowage. Both models balance topside height and beam aft for standing ­headroom while integrating ­natural lighting and inventive ­features such as the 50CS’s transom window with a molded stairway for tender access. Both models also offer a choice of ­all-electric propulsion with a Torqeedo or ­BMW-based system for true ­bluewater range. ­contestyachts.com

Dufour 41

The Dufour 41 introduces a fresh perspective on outdoor living with its spacious cockpit and proven design that’s fast and responsive to sail. This 41-foot-10-inch cruiser offers a sense of space comparable to larger vessels. Sailing performance is courtesy of the shipyard’s relationship with designer Umberto Felci. The Dufour 41 blends modernity and light while keeping the Dufour brand’s DNA intact. The design’s attention to space and flow allows effortless movement on board, while its robust build promises agility on the ocean. The 41 offers options for living areas: The three-stateroom version has an expansive owner’s space, and each stateroom has a bathroom. In the four-stateroom model, which can host up to 10 guests, the Dufour 41 has two forward staterooms with soundproofing. Both versions have long-term stowage and a large galley. dufour-yachts.com

Elan Impression 43

The Elan Impression 43 is the epitome of a modern family ­cruiser. Designed by Humphreys Yacht Design and styled in collaboration with Pininfarina, this yacht has a wide-beam hull that maximizes interior space. Its 3D VAIL composite technology is used to create superior sailing ­characteristics, while the ­twin-­rudder design maximizes control and stability, reducing broaching tendencies. The spacious cockpit has seating and a modular table that can be transformed into sun beds for ­relaxation. Inside are a ­well-appointed salon and a galley. With options for three or four staterooms, the Impression 43 is versatile enough to accommodate families or groups. elan-yachts.com

Fountaine-Pajot 80

The Fountaine-Pajot 80 sailboat combines function and sophistication. Its forward and aft cockpits connect to the salon, providing expansive relaxation areas. The staterooms, resembling refined suites, feature leather upholstery and wood accents. The heads, including a hot tub in the owner’s cabin, offer a spa-like experience. The salon has open circulation, large glass windows, a lounge, a bar and a chart table. Additional features include side cockpits with opening wings, a sea-view beach club, and toy stowage. The glazed coachroof and windows provide broad views, while the flybridge offers dedicated relaxation and navigation zones. Twin helm stations and strategic winch placement separate crew areas from leisure spaces. fountaine-pajot.com

Grand Soleil 65 LC, 72 LC

Cantiere del Pardo’s Grand Soleil 65 Long Cruise embodies performance, style and innovation. Designed by Franco Corazza, a seasoned racer, its epoxy-based vacuum vinylester resin hull combines biaxial fiberglass and unidirectional carbon fabrics for lightness and strength. The Long Cruise version places the salon closer to the cockpit, enhancing views and beam, and prioritizing cruising while maintaining performance. The Italian design and subtle interiors exude elegance. The salon splits into relaxation and dining spaces, with a stateroom area aft and an open galley amidships. Also launched this year, the flagship Grand Soleil 72 Long Cruise has a deckhouse with a widened, shortened and raised 270-degree window compared with the Performance model. grandsoleil.net

Gunboat 80

The Gunboat 80 builds on the 68’s design, with a racing-­focused layout and luxurious features. Sporting large, ­asymmetrical boards and T-foil rudders, its lightweight, 28-ton build emphasizes performance. The boat can reach 14 to 15 knots in moderate winds, and nearly 30 knots in strong breezes. Designed by VPLP with Chedal Anglay Design’s minimalist style, the yacht has an owner’s stateroom with a private companionway. ­Customizable guest staterooms, en suite bathrooms and separate crew quarters are available. Sliding doors connect the cockpit to the salon, creating an expansive open space. With two helm stations and the potential for a forward nacelle helm, the boat blends practicality and versatility. Another Gunboat 80, set to sail as a family-cruising model, is under construction for a summer 2024 debut. gunboat.com

Hallberg-Rassy HR 40C, HR 57

The Hallberg-Rassy 40C follows the Hallberg-Rassy 44’s legacy. Embodying comfort, performance and aesthetics, it replicates attributes in the salon, galley and aft stateroom. The cockpit mirrors the 44’s dimensions for exceptional sailing. Two galley choices are offered, one with expanded workspace and stowage, and with room for a dishwasher and microwave. ­Aft-stateroom options include twin berths or a centerline berth with a settee and makeup table. The interior features African khaya mahogany or European oak, with ample ventilation. Exterior design integrates modernity with hallmark features. A user-friendly rig and optional hardtop dodger enhance the sailing experience. The model offers small or foldout swim platforms and a concealed electric windlass. The HR 57, designed by Germán Frers, will also debut in the United States this fall with a streamlined sail plan. hallberg-rassy.com

Hanse 510

The Hanse 510 is a ­collaboration with Berret-­Racoupeau’s designers. This yacht introduces a hull design with bow and aft chines for improved ­waterline efficiency and performance. The vessel offers notable interior space and has a garage capable of holding an inflated dinghy more than 8 feet long, with the Hanse Smart Tender System for launching. The options list ­varies from a washing machine in the utility room to flat-screen TVs in the master stateroom and salon. The builder’s Flagship Package includes fine fabrics and materials, as well as a hidden bar behind a folding backrest. hanseyachts.com

HH44

The HH44 is a catamaran with electrification and carbon reinforcement for tech-savvy sailors, cruisers, and racers. The HH44-OC is intended for family bluewater cruising with an aluminum mast and mini keels, while the sportier HH44-SC has carbon daggerboards, a carbon rig, and solar panels for race-level performance. Designed for hybrid propulsion and solar power, it offers emissions-free motoring. Folding transoms enhance safety and living space. Clean decks, an enclosed cockpit, and hidden lines ensure security. An angular cabin design, forward-facing windows, and EVA-foam decking add comfort. Self-tacking staysails and adaptable helm positions are other notable features. ­hhcatamarans.com

Jeanneau 55

The Jeanneau 55—a ­collaboration between Philippe Briand Yacht Design, Winch Design and Jeanneau—finds ­inspiration in catamarans for space optimization. At 40,878 pounds with a D/L of 125.5 and a 26 percent ­ballast-to-­displacement ratio, it extends its beam throughout, ­emphasizing a topside chine for interior volume. DWL measures 52 feet, 7 inches; overall length reaches 52 feet, 11 inches with minimal overhang. Twin ­rudders align with draft choices of 8 feet, 4 inches and 6 feet, 5 inches. The layout includes three staterooms and an unusual galley-salon ­setup. The cockpit has flanking settees aft of the twin helms. An optional, retractable hardtop arch covers the cockpit. Versatile rig options ­accompany the yacht’s elegant blend of performance, comfort and style, catering to ­globe-trotting sailors. jeanneau.com

Knysna 550

The Knysna 550 (top) is a 55-foot sailing catamaran that merges luxury and performance. Evolving from the Knysna 440, 480 and 500, it balances opulence and capability. With a flybridge for enhanced visibility and diverse layouts, the model elevates high-performance sailing while ensuring comfort. Intuitive flybridge helm control complements its sporty design. The Knysna 550 also has customizable interiors with premium finishes. knysnayachtco.com

Beneteau Oceanis 37.1

The Oceanis 37.1 (bottom), the pinnacle of the seventh ­Oceanis Cruiser generation, retains the line’s hallmark traits while prioritizing eco-friendly sailing. Resembling the Oceanis 30.1 and 34.1, it has an open, backstay-free deck with double spreaders for improved performance. Aft winches enable easier shorthanded handling, accompanied by instruments including a 7-inch plotter at the starboard helm. Stability and power are enhanced through the flared-hull design with integrated ribs, without compromising volume. The interior has a roomy salon offset to port and a forward stateroom with large portholes. The Oceanis 37.1 comes in cruising and performance versions, and an eco-conscious approach is highlighted by electric ­propulsion, as well as Iroko wood decks ­suitable for serene inland waters and open seas. beneteau.com

Italia 12.98, 14.98

Italia Yachts’ 12.98 and 14.98 hulls are designed for cruising and racing enthusiasts. The IY 12.98 is a sleek design built for speed. Its ergonomic deck layout and balanced hull combine comfort and performance. Notable hydrodynamic features include variable aft waterline sections for dynamic length, and reduced wetted surfaces for improved light-wind performance. The interior is ecology-driven with wicker, cotton and linen, emphasizing habitability and comfort. The IY 14.98 targets extended cruising but retains a racing DNA, merging it with a family-oriented exterior that includes multiple heads and a good amount of stowage. italiayachtsinternational.com

Seawind 1170, 1370

The Seawind 1170 blends classic Seawind features into a contemporary design that’s suited for coastal cruising and offshore sailing. Its spacious layout, trifold doors and enclosed twin helms define the boat’s essence. The base model includes inboard 29 hp diesel engines, mini keels, and spade rudders. Notable features include an extended solar-panel-friendly cockpit roof, added headroom, a longeron with an optional bowsprit, and an aft-facing portlight for improved cabin ventilation. Rainwater collection, helm-seat stowage and a telescopic transom ladder enhance functionality. Also debuting this year, the Seawind 1370 is a cruising catamaran with panoramic windows, a forward-facing nav station, a large galley and a sheltered cockpit. With solar panels and twin helm stations, it’s a boat intended to allow for ­self-sufficiency. seawindcats.com

Solaris 44

The Solaris 44 is all about fast cruising or racing with a ­reduced crew. For ­easier ­handling, all lines lead to ­accessible winches. The boat also has a recessed mainsail traveler and coaming winches for ­asymmetrical spinnaker deployment. An efficient aft beam with twin rudders enhances performance. Spacious sail and cockpit lockers, separate life raft stowage, and a nearly ­14-foot beam characterize the deck layout. Twin berths are in the stern stateroom, which highlights the simplicity of design by Javier Soto Acebal and the ­Solaris design team. An oak interior with three staterooms, two heads, and a separate shower is standard, with deck options including hydraulic systems and various sail ­configurations. ­solarisyachts.com

X-Yachts Xc 47

The X-Yachts Xc 47 expands the builder’s XCruising line of offshore-cruising yachts. With a length just shy of 50 feet and a beam of nearly 15 feet, the boat is intended for long-distance cruising with a smaller crew. The cockpit layout prioritizes helmsman maneuvers, positioning winches forward of steering wheels and routing sheet lines below the deck. A repositioned mainsheet track and a deep, secure cockpit enhance comfort and maneuverability. The aft deck has full-width seating and a sun deck. The semideck salon design of the superstructure maximizes views and natural light, and allows for a multilevel layout with improved stowage. The hull has slim forward sections, ample rocker, and a modern stern for stability. Built using vacuum-infused epoxy and fiberglass sandwich construction with carbon-fiber reinforcement, the XC 47 is scheduled to launch in early 2024. x-yachts.com

Island Spirit 525

The Island Spirit 525 incorporates a slew of client preferences with a walk-through salon, ­trampoline-equipped forward seating, a spacious flybridge, communal aft seating, a sizable galley, a dining area aft, and en-suite-stateroom layouts, including crew quarters. Its sail plan complements the light displacement for robust sailing performance. The boat also has an electric drive system with a 55 kWh range extender, 65 kW drive motors, 210 kWh E-drive storage, and up to 4.8 kW of solar supplemental charging. (The design requires only 37 kW to achieve 8 knots.) Flexible configurations for three to six staterooms and optional ­forepeak staterooms include en suite facilities and queen-size berths with stowage. ­navigare-yachting.com

Pegasus 50

The Pegasus 50 is a shorthanded bluewater-sailing yacht that combines safety, speed, ease of handling, and comfort. Penned by Marine Designs, the vessel has robust construction and advanced technologies. The 360-degree-window design floods the salon, galley and nav station with light. That space connects via a sliding safety-glass door to the cockpit. Additional safety features include a windshield, a solid roof, sturdy railings, and well-placed handholds. Modern hull lines, twin rudders, a tandem keel, an optimized sail plan, and lightweight, strong construction should allow for swift sailing for racing enthusiasts and cruisers alike. Inside, a gimbaled dinette, forward-facing nav station, galley, three berths, and two heads with showers enhance onboard ­comfort. pegasus-yachts.com

The post 2024 New Boat Showcase appeared first on Cruising World.

Cruising World magazine today announced its roster of nominees for the 2024 Boat of the Year awards. Judging and testing for the awards will take place during and after the Annapolis Sailboat Show in Annapolis, Maryland, which begins October 12.

Seventeen boats were vetted and officially received nominations for 2024 Boat of the Year honors. The annual awards, selected by an independent judging team, recognize the best new production cruising boats and multihulls laid out and equipped for coastal and offshore sailing and voyaging. This year’s judging panel is comprised of systems expert Tim Murphy of the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), and previous CW editors-in-chief Mark Pillsbury and Herb McCormick. 

For nearly 25 years, Cruising World’s annual Boat of the Year program has been the recognized leader in inspecting, testing and rewarding the best sailboats introduced into the US market by boatbuilders the world over. Throughout the history of the competition, the rotating crew of judges has sailed hundreds of boats, and in doing so, helped the Boat of the Year program earn its reputation as the gold standard of international sailboat awards.

The 2024 Boat of the Year winners will be announced in the January issue of Cruising World. Here is the complete list of nominees. 

Beneteau Oceanis 37.1

The Oceanis 37.1 (photo at the top of the page), the pinnacle of the seventh Oceanis Cruiser generation, retains the line’s hallmark traits while prioritizing eco-friendly sailing. Resembling the Oceanis 30.1 and 34.1, it has an open, backstay-free deck with double spreaders for improved performance. Aft winches enable easier shorthanded handling, accompanied by instruments including a 7-inch plotter at the starboard helm. Stability and power are enhanced through the flared-hull design with integrated ribs, without compromising volume. The interior has a roomy salon offset to port and a forward stateroom with large portholes. The Oceanis 37.1 comes in cruising and performance versions, and an eco-conscious approach is highlighted by electric propulsion, as well as Iroko wood decks suitable for serene inland waters and open seas. beneteau.com

Dufour 41

The Dufour 41 introduces a fresh perspective on outdoor living with its spacious cockpit and proven design that’s fast and responsive to sail. This 41-foot-10-inch cruiser offers a sense of space comparable to larger vessels. Sailing performance is courtesy of the shipyard’s relationship with designer Umberto Felci. The Dufour 41 blends modernity and light while keeping the Dufour brand’s DNA intact. The design’s attention to space and flow allows effortless movement on board, while its robust build promises agility on the ocean. The 41 offers options for living areas: The three-stateroom version has an expansive owner’s space, and each stateroom has a bathroom. In the four-stateroom model, which can host up to 10 guests, the Dufour 41 has two forward staterooms with soundproofing. Both versions have long-term stowage and a large galley. dufour-yachts.com

Elan Impression 43

The Elan Impression 43 is the epitome of a modern family cruiser. Designed by Humphreys Yacht Design and styled in collaboration with Pininfarina, this yacht has a wide-beam hull that maximizes interior space. Its 3D VAIL composite technology is used to create superior sailing characteristics, while the twin-rudder design maximizes control and stability, reducing broaching tendencies. The spacious cockpit has seating and a modular table that can be transformed into sun beds for relaxation. Inside are a well-appointed salon and a galley. With options for three or four staterooms, the Impression 43 is versatile enough to accommodate families or groups. elan-yachts.com

Hallberg-Rassy HR 40C and HR 57

The Hallberg-Rassy 40C follows the Hallberg-Rassy 44’s legacy. Embodying comfort, performance and aesthetics, it replicates attributes in the salon, galley and aft stateroom. The cockpit mirrors the 44’s dimensions for exceptional sailing. Two galley choices are offered, one with expanded workspace and stowage, and with room for a dishwasher and microwave. Aft-stateroom options include twin berths or a centerline berth with a settee and makeup table. The interior features African khaya mahogany or European oak, with ample ventilation. Exterior design integrates modernity with hallmark features. A user-friendly rig and optional hardtop dodger enhance the sailing experience. The model offers small or foldout swim platforms and a concealed electric windlass.

The HR 57, designed by Germán Frers, will also debut in the United States this fall with a streamlined sail plan. hallberg-rassy.com

Hanse 510

The Hanse 510 is a collaboration with Berret-Racoupeau’s designers. This yacht introduces a hull design with bow and aft chines for improved waterline efficiency and performance. The vessel offers notable interior space and has a garage capable of holding an inflated dinghy more than 8 feet long, with the Hanse Smart Tender System for launching. The options list varies from a washing machine in the utility room to flat-screen TVs in the master stateroom and saloon. The builder’s Flagship Package includes fine fabrics and materials, as well as a hidden bar behind a folding backrest. hanseyachts.com

HH44

The HH44 is a catamaran with electrification and carbon reinforcement for tech-savvy sailors, cruisers, and racers. The HH44-OC is intended for family bluewater cruising with an aluminum mast and mini keels, while the sportier HH44-SC has carbon daggerboards, a carbon rig, and solar panels for race-level performance. Designed for hybrid propulsion and solar power, it offers emissions-free motoring. Folding transoms enhance safety and living space. Clean decks, an enclosed cockpit, and hidden lines ensure security. An angular cabin design, forward-facing windows, and EVA foam decking add comfort. Self-tacking staysails and adaptable helm positions are other notable features. hhcatamarans.com

Italia Yachts 14.98

Italia Yachts’ mission at the outset of designing the 14.98 was to create a boat that was equally stylish and seaworthy. The result was a fusion that will surely appeal as much to long-range cruisers as it should to racing enthusiasts. The 14.98’s lines show a boat with racing DNA but well suited for cruising as well, with vast exterior spaces for family entertainment with a “Made in Italy” flair and style, where aerodynamics blends with functionality. The flat stern features a comfortable one-step swimming platform, while an ergonomic deck layout with embedded recesses in the cockpit keep the make for smooth sailing and clean decks while underway. The interior layout comes in three different options, with two or three heads and ample stowage space for family cruising. In the standard version the salon is fitted with a dining table and a U-shaped settee, and a second sofa on the opposite side. The galley, to starboard, is fully equipped and seamlessly integrated into the living space. italiayachtsinternational.com

Jeanneau 55

The Jeanneau 55—a collaboration between Philippe Briand Yacht Design, Winch Design and Jeanneau—finds inspiration in catamarans for space optimization. At 40,878 pounds with a D/L of 125.5 and a 26 percent ballast-to-displacement ratio, it extends its beam throughout, emphasizing a topside chine for interior volume. DWL measures 52 feet, 7 inches; overall length reaches 52 feet, 11 inches with minimal overhang. Twin rudders align with draft choices of 8 feet, 4 inches and 6 feet, 5 inches. The layout includes three staterooms and an unusual galley-salon setup. The cockpit has flanking settees aft of the twin helms. An optional, retractable hardtop arch covers the cockpit. Versatile rig options accompany the yacht’s elegant blend of performance, comfort and style, catering to globe-trotting sailors. jeanneau.com

Rapido 40

With a self-tacking jib, carbon spreaderless mast and an option for a rolling furl boom, the Rapido 40 is designed and engineered as a high-tech, all-carbon performance cruiser. Penned by acclaimed designers Morrelli & Melvin, the all-carbon and folding 40 borrows DNA from the Rapido 60, designed for fast passagemaking and classic cruising for couples or singlehanders. Interiors are lightweight yet extremely durable (even the countertops are carbon), and the flooring is made of cork. The 40 employs carbon-foam construction, with watertight bulkheads (including the engine compartment containment) and bulkheads with no through penetrations below the waterline. rapidotrimarans.com

Seawind 1170

The Seawind 1170 blends classic Seawind features into a contemporary design that’s suited for coastal cruising and offshore sailing. Its spacious layout, trifold doors and enclosed twin helms define the boat’s essence. The base model includes inboard 29 hp diesel engines, mini keels, and spade rudders. Notable features include an extended solar-panel-friendly cockpit roof, added headroom, a longeron with an optional bowsprit, and an aft-facing portlight for improved cabin ventilation. Rainwater collection, helm seat stowage and a telescopic transom ladder enhance functionality. seawindcats.com

Solaris 44

The Solaris 44 is all about fast cruising or racing with a reduced crew. For easier handling, all lines lead to accessible winches. The boat also has a recessed mainsail traveler and coaming winches for asymmetrical spinnaker deployment. An efficient aft beam with twin rudders enhances performance. Spacious sail and cockpit lockers, separate life raft stowage, and a nearly 14-foot beam characterize the deck layout. Twin berths are in the stern stateroom, which highlights the simplicity of design by Javier Soto Acebal and the Solaris design team. An oak interior with three staterooms, two heads, and a separate shower is standard, with deck options including hydraulic systems and various sail configurations. solarisyachts.com

Vision 444

The Vision 444 combines design and functionality for sailors. Level, uncluttered decks, calibrated rudders and smart cockpit access enhance performance. A dedicated locker system makes for easy through-hull access, while engine rooms and navigation stations are laid out for convenience. Cockpit lockers allow for extra stowage. Exterior features include a wind-protected sunbathing area. Weight-distributed engine placement and a 24-volt DC electrical system are part of the package, with optional Oceanvolt electric propulsion available. With advanced resin-infusion and gelcoat technology, the yacht has stronger, lighter hulls and streamlined production, allowing for quicker delivery times while maintaining quality. visionyachts.com

Lagoon 51

Created to make long crossings in comfort, the Lagoon 51 (the newest in a long line of Lagoon siblings) aims to be the first production-model catamaran to integrate multiple environmental solutions. Employing woodwork from FSC-certified forests and upholstery entirely created from recycled materials—along with its 2.7 kilowatts of solar panels—the Lagoon 51 emphasizes sustainable building practices and eco-conscious cruising. The flybridge has a modular layout featuring a clever ergonomic design, while the unique aft transoms ensure easy, safe movement on board. Overall length spans 50 feet, 4 inches, with a beam of 26 feet, 7 inches, and a draft of 4 feet, 7 inches. Light displacement weighs in at 34,773 pounds. This bluewater-ready cruising cat carries an upwind sail area of 1,647 square feet, with an optional code zero of 1,087 square feet. Multiple layouts are available including four, five and six cabins. catamarans-lagoon.com

Excess 14

When Groupe Beneteau’s Excess Catamarans introduced its first model in 2019, a test sail in winds approaching 40 knots made it abundantly clear that the 38-foot-7-inch Excess 12 wasn’t just another pretty new face in the ever-growing cat crowd. That boat could sail. A recent outing aboard the company’s newest model, the Excess 14, was equally revealing. On the 14, Excess gave naval architects at VPLP Design some liberty in terms of hull design in their quest for better performance. One revelation of that liberty is highly-efficient, deep, thin fixed foils that make the hull a trendsetter, especially in light winds. Lighter carbon-fiber cloth is employed in key structural areas for strength, and key bulkheads are infused using foam coring. In line with Groupe Beneteau’s emphasis on sustainable boatbuilding, laminates used for the performance mainsail and genoa are recycled material, and hemp fibers are used in place of fiberglass in some nonstructural parts. Buyers can choose between a four-stateroom version (ideal for charter) or various three-stateroom options. The salon gets lots of sunlight and fridge and freezer space is abundant in the galley. Dining tables are indoors, at the front of the salon, and in the cockpit. Davits are available, as are canvas Biminis over the wheels for shade, and the boat has an optional seating area on the flybridge. excess-catamarans.com

Fountaine Pajot Aura 51

New to the US audience from this French builder of sailing cats is the Aura 51, which has an open living arrangement that connects the salon, galley and cockpit. The flybridge is big enough to accommodate 2,000 watts’ worth of flush-deck solar panels for sustainable ­cruising. The Aura 51, which makes its US debut at the Annapolis Sailboat Show, is available in four layouts, including a “full maestro” version that dedicates the port hull to an owner’s ­stateroom. fountaine-pajot.com 

Dragonfly 40 Performance Cruiser

Making its first US splash at the 2023 Annapolis Sailboat Show, the Dragonfly 40 Performance Cruiser sports cutting edge aesthetics with a focus on easy handling and shorthanded sailing. With a spacious cockpit and a stylish modern interior, the Dragonfly 40 is available in four versions: the standard Touring version with self-tacking jib; the Ultimate version has a taller and more powerful rig and larger overlapping furling headsail for higher performance; the C Ultimate Carbon version employing a carbon Pre-Preg system cured in Autoclave; and the C Performance version, which is similar to the C Ultimate version, but with an even taller and more powerful rig and sails. The Dragonfly 40 accommodates a crew of 6 to 8 persons. dragonfly.dk

More details on featured nominees of the 2024 Boat of the Year field coming soon!

The post Nominees Announced for Cruising World’s 2024 Boat of the Year Competition appeared first on Cruising World.

As the first sliver of sunlight peeked over the edge of the horizon, I cocked my head to face it, hoping for any ounce of warmth that might counter the chill from the overnight cold front. The stiff northerly blowing 15 knots on the nose wasn’t about to relinquish its grip on my chattering teeth. Adrenaline finally began to warm my soul as I, along with the rest of our crew, zipped across the harbor toward the gorgeous new Lyman-Morse 46—the first boat scheduled for test sails in the Cruising World Boat of the Year contest. 

It was at that moment I realized two things: One, the warm-blooded Florida kid in me was tragically ill-prepared for these elements; and two, I’d probably just signed myself up for what would be the most intensive week of sailing I’d ever done. 

Having edited dozens of “Best Of” features for various magazines through the years, I’ve learned that when it comes to awards programs, all that glimmers is not always gold. Vanity awards programs have long been a profitable cog of the public-relations wheel, which is probably why nearly every media outlet has awards of some form or another. Personally, I think there are too many bogus awards. It has become difficult for readers to put any trust in awards at all nowadays.

Cruising World‘s Boat of the Year awards, and the expert panelists who decide the winners, are very much the real deal.

So, when I arrived at Cruising World last year, I fully immersed myself in the Boat of the Year process, wanting to make sure that it wasn’t yet another imitation of the real thing. (The opportunity to sail 17 sensational new sailboat models had nothing to do with it, I swear.) 

I learned an important lesson: This magazine’s annual contest is different. Seriously different.

Each year, the contest is judged by a revolving, independent panel of marine experts who evaluate the fleet in two stages: dockside during the United States Sailboat Show in Annapolis, Maryland, and then in dedicated sea trials on Chesapeake Bay. This year’s panel of judges—Herb McCormick, Mark Pillsbury and Ed Sherman—set a pretty high bar. In fact, no other program I’ve been a part of puts boats through such rigorous trials. These judges measure every spec, inspect every inch of rigging, unscrew every electrical panel to examine the wiring behind it, scrutinize every element of construction, and question every layout option. Basically, they unbutton everything that boat-show exhibitors spend days buttoning up, all in service to the legitimacy of the CW Boat of the Year awards. 

No wonder so many winning boatbuilders proudly display blue triangle Boat of the Year awards banners at their boat-show booths. For nearly 25 years, Cruising World’s annual Boat of the Year program has been the recognized leader in inspecting, testing and rewarding the best sailboats introduced into the US market by boatbuilders the world over. Throughout the history of the competition, the rotating crew of judges has sailed hundreds of boats, and in doing so, helped the Boat of the Year program earn its reputation as the gold standard of international sailboat awards. 

Congratulations to the 2023 CW Boat of the Year winners (that are profiled in this issue. And to our readers, I hope you continue to get as much out of our annual reconnaissance mission as our team continues to put into it. 

I hope you’ll find the rest of our January/February issue as well-rounded as this year’s fleet of Boat of the Year nominees. In this issue, join us off-grid in the remote cruising grounds of Greenland aboard the Stevens 47 Polar Sun, where adventurer Ben Zartman finds that sailing in Greenland is not what he thought it would be—turns out “it’s even better.”  

Then, prepare to leave your comfort zone on a wild 2,850 nautical-mile Pacific Ocean passage with Michael Pschorr, who, at 78 years old decided that he wasn’t going to let his age get in the way of making memories of a lifetime with his son. It’s a heartwarming story that every parent can relate to, though few get the opportunity to make it happen. 

Other January/February issue features CW’s newest column, where longtime contributing editor Jim Carrier gives our once-popular Classic Plastic column new life as This Ol’ Boat. In the first installment, you’ll meet a charming couple who turned a Little Harbor 44 once owned by designed Ted Hood into a years-long home for adventure. Also in the issue, we’ll take a look at several big rallies happening in 2023, how you can get involved, and why you should; the story of a costly lesson in do-it-yourself engine repair by veteran mariner Roger Hughes; inside tips on how to change a raw water pump; and how having the right buddy boat can make your cruising experience even more fun, educational and memorable.  On Watch columnist Fatty Goodlander pleads his case that everyday situations that come from cruising with safety harnesses are more complicated that we might think. Electronics guru David Schmidt reviews the latest, greatest PFDs to keep your head above water in an emergency. And CW’s charter guru Chris Caswell reveals his tried and true ways to avoid painful, cancer-causing sunburns on a charter (or on any boat)—and how to treat them if the rays get the best of you.  

The January/February issue is in mailboxes and available at newsstands now. If you don’t have one, grab one. If you’re not currently a subscriber, I hope you’ll consider becoming one. On behalf of the Cruising World crew, thanks for reading. As always, don’t hesitate to let us know your thoughts.

Most of all, on behalf of the entire Cruising World crew, I want to wish you a glorious holiday season of peace, fair seas and a steady breeze. 

—Andrew Parkinson, editor-in-chief 

The post Best of the Best appeared first on Cruising World.

The arrival of the cold front could not possibly have been more surreal. At precisely 5 p.m. this past October 17, coinciding exactly with the official pronouncement that the annual US Sailboat Show in Annapolis, Maryland, had concluded, a fierce thunderstorm rolled over Chesapeake Bay, generating sideways rain and powerful gusts. Chaos ensued. Exhibitors on land breaking down tents and packing up displays were left doused and scrambling. The crews on boats untying lines to depart the docks ducked for cover. It was a mess for everyone. 

Except, that is, for our team of judges for the 2023 Boat of the Year contest, the sea trials for which were scheduled to begin early the next day. For us, hiding out from the fray, the timing couldn’t have been better.

We knew that the front was also bringing a fresh breeze—a couple of days of pumping northerlies before a welcome swing to solid southerlies. Game on.

Full disclosure: It’s not every year that every nominee in our yearly BOTY competition gets tested in superb conditions. Chesapeake Bay can be a fickle test bed in mid-October, particularly on flat-calm mornings, when it takes some time for the capricious sea breeze to fill in. Truthfully, sometimes it never does. But not this year. And while the winds did fluctuate somewhat over the next 72 hours, when our panel conducted sea trials for this year’s fleet of 17 entries, overall the conditions were almost ideal—some of the best, most consistent pressure in the 20-odd-year history of the event. Each entry got a fair opportunity to strut its stuff. 

And it was a great year for that to happen, because while the fleet may not have been the largest ever, in terms of sailing prowess and performance, it was exemplary across the board. The sailing, quite simply, was outstanding. 

But about those numbers: It’s safe to say that the effect of the pandemic on worldwide sailboat manufacturing is lingering. Last year in Annapolis, builders were inundated with orders, and for some companies, order books were full for the following two or three years, or more. Which meant that if you laid down a deposit for a new boat in 2021, it was by no means unusual for delivery to be scheduled for 2023, or later. That trend is slowing, but it has not ceased. What seems to have been shelved for many brands is the R&D that goes into new models. It makes sense. In the meantime, many marine-industry stalwarts from whom we’re accustomed to reviewing new boats on an almost yearly basis (Jeanneau and Leopard leap immediately to mind) were absent for 2023. Almost everyone is still playing catch-up. 

All that said, even in years with two dozen entries or more, it’s rare to be presented with a fleet with such a resounding international presence. The 17 boats that comprise the BOTY ’23 field were produced in nine different nations: Denmark, France, Germany, Poland, South Africa, Slovenia, Sweden, the United States…and even Ukraine, where the manufacturing of a sweet, trailerable pocket racer/cruiser, the L30, has continued despite the ongoing conflict. Whoa. Sailors by nature are known to be a resilient lot, but so too are those who create the craft we sail. We salute them.

The makeup of the entry list was also noteworthy. In recent years, we’ve seen a proliferation of large monohulls, in the 55- to 65-foot range, many with price tags in the hefty seven figures. But there was no Luxury Class for the high-end set in 2023 (though the cost of several entries did crest the million-dollar mark). In fact, unprecedentedly, the largest monohull we reviewed this year was the Elan Impression 50.1 (the Lagoon 55 catamaran was the biggest multihull among the competitors).

And there were a couple of exceptionally strong classes, which certainly reflects the current state of the market. Both the Performance Cruiser division of dual-purpose racer/cruiser and the Multihull class drew a quintet of entries (the latter with four cats and a trimaran). Neither was particularly surprising because versatile boats that serve multiple purposes are always in fashion, and the trend toward multihulls is one that has seemingly become stronger for more than a decade and shows no sign of reversal. But it did not make the judges’ tasks any easier; both classes were formidable from top to bottom. 

Another happy occurrence was a pair of excellent homegrown entries from the USA—once a powerhouse in the boatbuilding world but more of a footnote in recent years. The fine entries from Maine builder Lyman-Morse and a new Tartan from the resilient Midwest crew were heartening additions. 

There was one final, unique aspect to the Boat of the Year 2023 competition: the number of owners aboard the yachts that we tested for the sea trials. Manufacturers reps and designers are our usual presenters, but having the sailors who purchased and commissioned the vessels always adds a new and fascinating dimension. Hearing what they chose and why is valuable input.

In that vein, we’d like to recognize Erik Asgeirsson on the J/45, a lifelong sailor who’s the very definition of a racer and cruiser. He enjoys competing aboard the boat but also sailed it across the windswept English Channel after taking delivery, and he cruises with his wife and four girls all over New England. Jim Eisenhart, aboard his Moody DS41, was about to swap sailboats for a trawler until he took one look at the yacht’s sweet deck saloon and realized it would extend his years as a sailor. Chantal and Denis Rosa’s Impression 50.1 is the couple’s second boat from the Slovenian builder, and this year they’ll be sailing it to Grenada to visit their daughter and her new baby.

It was fascinating listening to Bob Frantz and learning about the choices he made with gear and charging systems on his Hallberg-Rassy 400; an avid ambassador for the brand, he circumnavigated on an earlier model from the Swedish builder. Of course, Drew Lyman loved his Lyman-Morse LM46; his company built it. He’ll be rolling down to the Bahamas aboard the awesome performance cruiser this winter with his clan. And a special tip of the cap to Ukrainian sailor and entrepreneur Alexander Ivanov, the importer and force behind the one-design L30, who took us on one of our best sails of the week on the windswept bay.

Spoiler alert: These boats largely did very well in the competition, and it probably was not a coincidence.  

As always, the contest was conducted in two parts, with a series of dockside inspections of overall build, systems and layout preceding the sail trials. And, as always, we want to thank all the participants, who were gracious with their time and very accessible, even when we closed down their boats for viewing at busy periods during the Annapolis boat show. 

Eventually, as they invariably do, the winds calmed and Chesapeake Bay was placid. Which meant it was time to convene, deliberate and choose some winners. This year, in particular, that was the hard part. What follows is a roll call of the winners, and a closer look at each and every nominee. For our team who puts it together, our Boat of the Year program is always some of the best sailing we ever get to do. And this year, breeze on, was special indeed.

 2023 Boat of the Year: Best Overall Winner

Two for the Blue

When the spray had settled, at the top of the leader board was a pair of yachts destined for blue water and beyond: the Lyman-Morse LM46, the Domestic Boat of the Year, and the Hallberg-Rassy 400, the Import Boat of the Year.

Domestic Boat of the Year: Lyman-Morse LM46

It’s an understatement to say that Drew Lyman, president of Lyman-Morse Boatbuilding Company—the estimable midcoast Maine semicustom builder with facilities in Thomaston and Camden—knows a thing or two about cruising boats. After all, his father, Cabot, founded the firm in the late 1970s, and several years later, circumnavigated with his family on a Sparkman & Stephens-designed Sequin 49 produced in his yard called Chewink, with Drew aboard for significant legs of the journey. Many lessons were learned; many memories were lasting.

When Drew decided he required a boat for a similar rite of passage with his own family, at first he was drawn to the notion of a cruising catamaran, and for a while, he leaned heavily in that direction. But when push came to shove, he decided to move forward with a monohull; one in size and in spirit was a descendant of the Sequin 49 of his youth.

That yacht is the Lyman-Morse LM46, a striking performance cruiser from renowned New Zealand naval architect Kevin Dibley, who created a light, fast sailboat that’s both strong and sleek, and a testament to the skilled craftsmen who built it. Lyman then added his own personal touches, including many features he borrowed from legendary skipper Stan Honey, whose Cal 40 took overall honors in this past summer’s Newport Bermuda Race after a refit at—where else?—Lyman-Morse.

Our judging panel was thunderstruck by both the formidable sailing prowess and the exacting level of execution, and unanimously awarded it the title of Domestic Boat of the Year. Judge Mark Pillsbury sums up the collective opinion of the judges: “Cold-molded construction, top-notch systems, a powerful sail plan, and an interior that is both practical and lovely at the same time. Wow! The Lyman-Morse LM 46 is a heck of a boat. Purpose-built for an experienced owner, for sure, but in terms of a pure sailing machine, the 46 was the standout boat in this year’s lineup of new models.”

Import Boat of the Year: Hallberg-Rassy 400

As cruising sailors, we’ve long been enamored with Swedish builder Hallberg-Rassy, and that respect has been reflected in past editions of our Boat of the Year contest, where the company has enjoyed numerous successes. The latest offering continues a trend introduced since noted Argentine naval architect German Frers has become the line’s principal designer. It’s oftentimes not easy for a company with proven results to change what’s already a successful formula. But this latest 40-footer is a yacht that has certainly evolved, and in doing so, it’s the 2023 Import Boat of the Year.

The cockpit windshield is a feature that warms the heart of every Hallberg-Rassy owner, and it’s continued here. But the aft-cockpit configuration is certainly a departure from the brand’s earlier iterations (including the yacht the 400 succeeds in the line, the center-cockpit 40C), and so too are the twin wheels and corresponding twin rudders. Those matching helms provided the judges with one of the best sails of the contest, a jaunt that began in light airs, and just got better and better as the wind filled. It was a winning performance.

The versatile layout, with a variety of options, is also unusual in a 40 footer, and it sealed the deal. As judge Herb McCormick said during deliberations: “This ain’t your old man’s Hallberg-Rassy. It’s a lot better. It just is.”

View all of the winners by category, meet the judges, and more…

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