When it comes to cruising yachts, size matters—but it’s not just about luxury and opulence. Smaller cruising yachts offer an ideal balance of comfort, maneuverability, and efficiency. Whether you’re a solo sailor, a couple, or a small family, a small cruising yacht can provide an excellent experience on the water without the excessive maintenance and space requirements of larger yachts.
In this article, we’ll review 9 of the best small cruising yachts available today, each offering unique features suited for various sailing preferences and budgets. From cozy cabins to innovative designs, these yachts have become favorites among sailing enthusiasts worldwide.
9 Best Small Cruising Yacht
1. Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349
The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349 is a perfect balance of performance and comfort. With a sleek design and stable sailing capabilities, it’s ideal for both beginners and experienced sailors. This 34-foot yacht boasts spacious interiors, offering two or three cabin configurations, and provides excellent stability even in rough weather.
Key Features:
- Length: 34′ 5″ (10.5 meters)
- Beam: 11′ 1″ (3.38 meters)
- Draft: 5′ 4″ (1.63 meters)
- Sail Area: 452 sq. ft. (42 m²)
- Engine: 21 HP
Why Choose It:
- Easy to handle, even for solo sailors
- Efficient interior layout, providing comfort without compromising on space
- Highly regarded for its seaworthiness
The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349 is a fantastic choice for sailors who want a well-rounded yacht for both day sailing and longer voyages.
2. Beneteau Oceanis 30.1
The Beneteau Oceanis 30.1 is designed for those seeking the perfect cruising experience with a focus on ease of handling and stability. With a modern look and generous cockpit space, this 30-foot yacht ensures comfortable living aboard without feeling cramped.
Key Features:
- Length: 30′ 5″ (9.27 meters)
- Beam: 10′ 7″ (3.24 meters)
- Draft: 4′ 6″ (1.37 meters)
- Sail Area: 419 sq. ft. (39 m²)
- Engine: 14 HP
Why Choose It:
- Excellent interior space and storage
- Perfect for coastal cruising and light offshore passages
- Easy to sail, even with a small crew
Ideal for short-to-medium cruising, this yacht brings Beneteau’s reputation for high-quality craftsmanship to a manageable size.
3. Catalina 30 MKII
The Catalina 30 MKII has been a favorite in the cruising yacht community for decades. This 30-foot yacht offers excellent stability and space for a yacht of its size. Its wide beam provides a spacious interior, perfect for extended trips.
Key Features:
- Length: 30′ 0″ (9.14 meters)
- Beam: 10′ 10″ (3.3 meters)
- Draft: 5′ 3″ (1.6 meters)
- Sail Area: 408 sq. ft. (37.9 m²)
- Engine: 21 HP
Why Choose It:
- One of the most popular small cruising yachts ever built
- Roomy interior with plenty of headroom
- Strong track record for durability and longevity
The Catalina 30 MKII is a timeless classic for cruisers who want a dependable yacht with spacious accommodations.
4. Dufour 360 Grand Large
The Dufour 360 Grand Large offers incredible balance between performance and comfort, making it a perfect choice for cruisers seeking both speed and luxury. With a modern, sharp look and an intelligent layout, this 36-footer is a joy to sail.
Key Features:
- Length: 35′ 11″ (10.95 meters)
- Beam: 12′ 3″ (3.73 meters)
- Draft: 5′ 6″ (1.68 meters)
- Sail Area: 506 sq. ft. (47 m²)
- Engine: 30 HP
Why Choose It:
- Spacious cockpit and well-designed deck layout
- High-quality build and excellent sailing performance
- Ideal for coastal cruising and some offshore adventures
For sailors looking for a performance-oriented yet comfortable cruising yacht, the Dufour 360 Grand Large checks all the boxes.
5. Hunter 31
The Hunter 31 is a classic 31-foot cruising yacht that combines comfort and practicality. Known for its solid build and spacious cabin, it’s a great choice for couples or small families who want a reliable yacht for weekend getaways or longer trips.
Key Features:
- Length: 31′ 0″ (9.45 meters)
- Beam: 10′ 7″ (3.23 meters)
- Draft: 4′ 6″ (1.37 meters)
- Sail Area: 385 sq. ft. (35.8 m²)
- Engine: 15 HP
Why Choose It:
- Easy to handle with a small crew
- Large interior with ample storage for extended trips
- Reliable performance under a variety of conditions
The Hunter 31 stands out for its comfortable interior and affordability, making it a great option for cruisers on a budget.
6. Lagoon 380 S2
For those considering a small catamaran for cruising, the Lagoon 380 S2 is an excellent option. It offers ample space, stability, and speed, making it one of the best small cruising catamarans available.
Key Features:
- Length: 37′ 2″ (11.33 meters)
- Beam: 21′ 4″ (6.5 meters)
- Draft: 3′ 11″ (1.2 meters)
- Sail Area: 828 sq. ft. (77 m²)
- Engine: 2 x 20 HP
Why Choose It:
- Stable and comfortable under most conditions
- Large, open spaces and great deck layout for entertainment
- Excellent for family cruising and chartering
With a spacious interior and twin hulls for added stability, the Lagoon 380 S2 is perfect for those seeking a more luxurious, stable cruising experience.
7. Bavaria Cruiser 33
The Bavaria Cruiser 33 is a versatile cruising yacht that provides a comfortable interior and excellent sailing performance. It’s an ideal choice for couples or families who want to sail in both calm and challenging conditions.
Key Features:
- Length: 32′ 10″ (10 meters)
- Beam: 10′ 10″ (3.3 meters)
- Draft: 5′ 2″ (1.58 meters)
- Sail Area: 463 sq. ft. (43 m²)
- Engine: 18 HP
Why Choose It:
- Impressive interior space with comfortable sleeping quarters
- Solid performance even in harsher conditions
- Easily handled by a small crew
The Bavaria Cruiser 33 is perfect for those who want a well-rounded, comfortable yacht for long-term cruising.
8. Elan Impression 40
The Elan Impression 40 is a larger option within the small cruising yacht category. Despite its larger size, it is designed for easy handling and offers excellent performance on the water. This yacht is a great option for sailors who want a combination of space and speed.
Key Features:
- Length: 40′ 0″ (12.19 meters)
- Beam: 12′ 5″ (3.8 meters)
- Draft: 6′ 4″ (1.93 meters)
- Sail Area: 581 sq. ft. (54 m²)
- Engine: 40 HP
Why Choose It:
- Spacious interior with modern design
- High-performance sailing abilities
- Excellent for both coastal cruising and long offshore passages
While on the larger end of the “small yacht” category, the Elan Impression 40 offers a premium experience without being too overwhelming to manage.
9. Tartan 3400
The Tartan 3400 is a high-performance yacht designed for those who want to combine speed with comfort. Its sleek lines and powerful sail plan make it one of the most sought-after cruising yachts in its class.
Key Features:
- Length: 34′ 0″ (10.36 meters)
- Beam: 11′ 0″ (3.35 meters)
- Draft: 5′ 6″ (1.68 meters)
- Sail Area: 500 sq. ft. (46.5 m²)
- Engine: 18 HP
Why Choose It:
- Impressive performance under both light and strong winds
- Comfortable cabin and well-thought-out deck space
- Great for sailors who value both speed and comfort
The Tartan 3400 is a perfect option for those who love performance sailing but don’t want to sacrifice comfort.
Conclusion
Selecting the right small cruising yacht depends on your specific needs, preferences, and the type of sailing you plan to do. Whether you’re looking for performance, comfort, or versatility, the yachts listed above represent some of the best options available in the market today. From the classic and reliable Catalina 30 MKII to the innovative and stable Lagoon 380 S2 catamaran, each of these yachts has been designed to provide a great balance of features and sailing capabilities.
As a potential cruiser, you’ll want to consider factors such as interior space, ease of handling, sailing performance, and overall build quality. It’s important to think about how much space you need, whether you’ll be sailing solo or with a crew, and how much offshore sailing you intend to do.
No matter which yacht you choose, a small cruising yacht offers the opportunity to explore new places, enjoy scenic views, and experience the freedom of the open water without the need for a large, cumbersome vessel. With the right yacht, your cruising adventures can be comfortable, efficient, and unforgettable.
