Design Tips Gleaned from Long Voyaging

Tips and suggestions you might consider for your own perfect small boat

by Stephen Ladd

Find Steve’s books here and here.

When I return from a long voyage my zest for remote lands is quenched, but my “next boat” obsesses me intellectually. So I design and eventually build something for my next adventure, whenever the urge should return. I enjoy this design work. Finally, I can right all those tedious wrongs imposed by my previous boat! Here is an assortment of humble opinions that have risen from much stewing over the perfect small cruiser. Many of them pertain especially to warm waters, since I have traveled much in the tropics. I offer them that they may help someone looking for the right boat, or wondering how to modify their boat for serious travel.

Steve Ladd has managed to campaign his boats to places few other sailors have ever been. Above is his custom-cabined Sea Pearl 21.

Size and shape

1. A boat light enough to be dragged up a beach, like an ocean kayak, has a huge advantage: the ability to escape onto dry land can save your life and your boat. Unfortunately, it’s an option open only to the fairly athletic and the boat must be very small because weight increases to the third power (I believe that’s right!) of length. Also, obviously, such a light boat is less comfortable afloat. A miniscule boat can be just as seaworthy as a large one, but you must be more disciplined in keeping hatches closed and gear well stowed.

2. Whatever the size, for short voyages a tubby shape is fine. For long adventures, when time drags, a lean boat is preferred.