Sailboat Types
Sailboats are mainly distinguished by the construction of their hull and by the way they are stabilized against heeling. The choice of boat type depends on the intended use, the sailing area, and the desired size.
Dinghy
The dinghy is an open, keel-less sailing boat. Instead of a ballast keel it has a retractable centreboard that prevents leeway. Since dinghies are not self-righting, they must be balanced by the weight of the crew (e.g. by hiking or trapezing). They are light, sporty, and well suited for beginners.
Keelboat
The keelboat carries a heavy ballast keel under the hull. This ensures that the boat rights itself after heeling. Keelboats are therefore much more stable than dinghies, but also heavier and have a deeper draft.
Keel-Centreboarder
The keel-centreboarder combines the properties of both types: it has a small ballast keel and an additional retractable centreboard. As a result it is self-righting but can also navigate shallow waters.
Multihulls
Multihulls generate their stability through their large beam rather than through a ballast keel.
- Catamaran: two parallel hulls. High speed at low heel.
- Trimaran: a main hull with two smaller side hulls (floats).
Multihulls are very fast but are difficult to right after a capsize.
Yacht
A yacht is a larger keelboat with a cabin, designed for longer trips and overnight stays on board. Yachts come as pure sailing yachts or as motor-sailers with an additional auxiliary engine.