No doubt about it, aesthetics are a big part of our love affair with sailboats. With the squared off (or rounded) end aft and the pointy end forward, sailboats look sleek, fast and powerful... especially with a big, towering rig. Then there’s the "bling:" stainless steel hardware, exotic high tech sails, and color-matched canvas. But sometimes we need comforts and convenience that mess up those wonderful lines. Davits, arches, dodgers, life rafts, radar mounts, jerry cans, etc. Where do you draw the line on aesthetics versus comfort and safety? Make your choice then vote in the Quick Quiz on the home page. (Discussion and quiz by Trevor MacLachlan)
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Aesthetics vs COST!
My STARGAZER might be almost a quarter of a century old now - but she's as beautiful (to me!) as when she was new! I try to keep the "look" of the boat as new - and with the exception of some updated sailing instruments on the wheel pedestal - she's notably bare of Bimini, dodger, davits, and all of the other things cluttering up the deck of a "cruiser." It's cheaper - and i like it that way!
My STARGAZER might be almost a quarter of a century old now - but she's as beautiful (to me!) as when she was new! I try to keep the "look" of the boat as new - and with the exception of some updated sailing instruments on the wheel pedestal - she's notably bare of Bimini, dodger, davits, and all of the other things cluttering up the deck of a "cruiser." It's cheaper - and i like it that way!
Equipment more Important than Aesthetics
I do not see why anyone would consider normal equipment use on a sailboat to make the boat non aesthetic. The absence of proper cruising equipment (dingheys, radar, VHF antennas, and other normal and needed safety, navigation, bimini tops and other equipment) clearly show that the owner has no idea of what boating is all about. To even think that a clean, slick, equpment-free vessel is more attractive than than a well equipped boat is crazy.
I do not see why anyone would consider normal equipment use on a sailboat to make the boat non aesthetic. The absence of proper cruising equipment (dingheys, radar, VHF antennas, and other normal and needed safety, navigation, bimini tops and other equipment) clearly show that the owner has no idea of what boating is all about. To even think that a clean, slick, equpment-free vessel is more attractive than than a well equipped boat is crazy.
Safety on the deck, comfort in the cabin
I prefer the simplicity of a good, old sailboat. If I wanted "bling", I would have a noisy, flashy powerboat. That said, comfort and safety are the most important things for me and the Admiral. DreamBoat has a Bimini, lifelines, cockpit speakers, roller furling main and jib, and a swim ladder. A Bimini is REQUIRED in south Alabama in the summer and winter, and lifelines are just common sense safety items. I do like for the stanchions to be clean and shiny. In the cabin, comfort is most important. Lighting and ventilation get top priority on DreamBoat.
I prefer the simplicity of a good, old sailboat. If I wanted "bling", I would have a noisy, flashy powerboat. That said, comfort and safety are the most important things for me and the Admiral. DreamBoat has a Bimini, lifelines, cockpit speakers, roller furling main and jib, and a swim ladder. A Bimini is REQUIRED in south Alabama in the summer and winter, and lifelines are just common sense safety items. I do like for the stanchions to be clean and shiny. In the cabin, comfort is most important. Lighting and ventilation get top priority on DreamBoat.
Great Lakes cruising
If you head off into the North Channel of Lake Huron in July and August and you don't have screened enclosure then you'd better schedule a trip to the blood bank for a WITHDRAWAL when you get back because the bugs are gonna eat you alive. It's true that the aesthetics of an enclosure makes the boat look less sleek but SWMBO is either gonna' be comfy or there is nothing but gloom in Mudville. Also on those rainy, chilly Michigan days it's nice to "button up" the cockpit while at anchor and enjoy an evening on the hook without being cooped up in the salon. In the end it's a matter of taste and of course $$$. But then, it IS nautical.
If you head off into the North Channel of Lake Huron in July and August and you don't have screened enclosure then you'd better schedule a trip to the blood bank for a WITHDRAWAL when you get back because the bugs are gonna eat you alive. It's true that the aesthetics of an enclosure makes the boat look less sleek but SWMBO is either gonna' be comfy or there is nothing but gloom in Mudville. Also on those rainy, chilly Michigan days it's nice to "button up" the cockpit while at anchor and enjoy an evening on the hook without being cooped up in the salon. In the end it's a matter of taste and of course $$$. But then, it IS nautical.
Start with a boat that has the lines I like ...
Then it would be really difficult to mess it up. I have to admit that the aesthetics are important. So I have sail covers, a wheel cover, winch covers, and a bimini that match my burgundy boot stripe. The boat should have some wood trim on the exterior, even if varnishing is a chore. Once you have those basics, I don't think any of the accouterments of cruising detract in the least bit. A bimini this weekend was absolutely necessary! Even though it was windy, any time spent at anchor was only pleasant with an opportunity to get out of the sun!
Then it would be really difficult to mess it up. I have to admit that the aesthetics are important. So I have sail covers, a wheel cover, winch covers, and a bimini that match my burgundy boot stripe. The boat should have some wood trim on the exterior, even if varnishing is a chore. Once you have those basics, I don't think any of the accouterments of cruising detract in the least bit. A bimini this weekend was absolutely necessary! Even though it was windy, any time spent at anchor was only pleasant with an opportunity to get out of the sun!
function
I don't see a need to draw a line. First, I think we all love sailing because our sailboats function like sailboats. Second to that comes appearance. I think that smooth and clean appearance looks great, but there are also gadgets and add-ons and convenience featues might also add sophistication to the look of a boat. I wouldn't own any add-ons I don't have a real use for, but I think that's the case for most of us. And on weekends like this one just past, I couldn't imagine spending more than a couple of hours still or moving without the protection of a bimini.
I don't see a need to draw a line. First, I think we all love sailing because our sailboats function like sailboats. Second to that comes appearance. I think that smooth and clean appearance looks great, but there are also gadgets and add-ons and convenience featues might also add sophistication to the look of a boat. I wouldn't own any add-ons I don't have a real use for, but I think that's the case for most of us. And on weekends like this one just past, I couldn't imagine spending more than a couple of hours still or moving without the protection of a bimini.
Ain't she a beauty
Someone very wise once said "Never buy any boat that you can't say every time you see her, my...ain't she a beauty!"
Someone very wise once said "Never buy any boat that you can't say every time you see her, my...ain't she a beauty!"
Complicated Gagetry
As the complicated gagetry on your boat approaches infinity, the mean time between failures approaches zero. Never put anything on a boat that you do not need or want to learn the skills to operate. If you can afford it, use it, and maintain it, go for it!
As the complicated gagetry on your boat approaches infinity, the mean time between failures approaches zero. Never put anything on a boat that you do not need or want to learn the skills to operate. If you can afford it, use it, and maintain it, go for it!
I dont really see the compromise.
If given enough thought, aesthetics should not mess up the lines of a boat. Life rafts on proper supports or davits should not detract from the looks. The same holds true for biminis and dodgers. As a matter of fact, some of these items can add to the 'saltyness' in appearance if done properly. A line should not have to be drawn between aesthetics, safety and comfort. Usually a sailboat will look like a garbage barge when functionality gets too carried away. Thats when things are added that dont blend in with the hull shape. Usually by someone trying to be too creative or has no eye for beauty. This includes the too tall - too large bimini and dodger for the shape of the boat oftentimes salvaged from another boat or built from 'spare parts'. I have seen dodgers on similar boats to mine that looked good. Mine in particular. was built by the PO and looks like the ass end of a Stuedebaker. I just havent gotten around to replacing it yet. Tony B
If given enough thought, aesthetics should not mess up the lines of a boat. Life rafts on proper supports or davits should not detract from the looks. The same holds true for biminis and dodgers. As a matter of fact, some of these items can add to the 'saltyness' in appearance if done properly. A line should not have to be drawn between aesthetics, safety and comfort. Usually a sailboat will look like a garbage barge when functionality gets too carried away. Thats when things are added that dont blend in with the hull shape. Usually by someone trying to be too creative or has no eye for beauty. This includes the too tall - too large bimini and dodger for the shape of the boat oftentimes salvaged from another boat or built from 'spare parts'. I have seen dodgers on similar boats to mine that looked good. Mine in particular. was built by the PO and looks like the ass end of a Stuedebaker. I just havent gotten around to replacing it yet. Tony B
Looks vs. comfort
I agree with those who think that safety items don't discount the essential good looks of a boat that much. For me, the big issue has always been comfort/practicality vs. good looks. I love the look of the CCA-inspired boats: long overhangs, spoon bows, wineglass transoms. In other words, older, full keel boats with small cockpits. The "older" part doesn't really bug me, but the rest of those design elements, as beautiful as they are, translate into boats that are a handful to manuever under power in a tight marina, have small cockpits, deep drafts, hard to swim off of, and with small, dark cabins. The exact opposite of how I sail and what I like to do. Oh, and all that brightwork is breathtaking, but I don't have the time to refinish the coachrails on my boat now, let alone coamings, seats, toerails, hatch slides, etc.
I agree with those who think that safety items don't discount the essential good looks of a boat that much. For me, the big issue has always been comfort/practicality vs. good looks. I love the look of the CCA-inspired boats: long overhangs, spoon bows, wineglass transoms. In other words, older, full keel boats with small cockpits. The "older" part doesn't really bug me, but the rest of those design elements, as beautiful as they are, translate into boats that are a handful to manuever under power in a tight marina, have small cockpits, deep drafts, hard to swim off of, and with small, dark cabins. The exact opposite of how I sail and what I like to do. Oh, and all that brightwork is breathtaking, but I don't have the time to refinish the coachrails on my boat now, let alone coamings, seats, toerails, hatch slides, etc.
Varnish vrs Veracity
Gave up on the 'varnishing' at about 25. If you keep a vessel fully functional, and survival ready, well, you have no time to impress folks with the niceities; if the yacht stays put in the harbor, where hunters, bennies and jenniuies belong, then fine, this is what they were manufactured for. Function is the only smart consideration for a cruising vessel of any size. Jerries, solar-panels, jack-lines, harnesses, through-bolted pad-eyes, heat shrunk conductor connections, monitor windvane, blue-sea switches, fixed fire 1301 extinguishers in the engine bay, CO monitiors...this 'looks' good to me on a vessel, but beauty is in the eyes of the beholder + we all have our cross to bear, expecially if we're married....;-)
Gave up on the 'varnishing' at about 25. If you keep a vessel fully functional, and survival ready, well, you have no time to impress folks with the niceities; if the yacht stays put in the harbor, where hunters, bennies and jenniuies belong, then fine, this is what they were manufactured for. Function is the only smart consideration for a cruising vessel of any size. Jerries, solar-panels, jack-lines, harnesses, through-bolted pad-eyes, heat shrunk conductor connections, monitor windvane, blue-sea switches, fixed fire 1301 extinguishers in the engine bay, CO monitiors...this 'looks' good to me on a vessel, but beauty is in the eyes of the beholder + we all have our cross to bear, expecially if we're married....;-)
Cap'n Ron..
Quote: " if the yacht stays put in the harbor, where hunters, bennies and jenniuies belong, then fine, this is what they were manufactured for." Please do us a favor and try to refrain from attacks on boat brands that are unwarranted. If you have nothing nice to say please DON'T!! Remember this is a forum that was originally designed and created for, as the header of the site states: "Beneteau, Catalina, C&C, Hunter SHARED FORUM MacGregor, O'day".. The rest of your post is spot on but you often seem to throw in a boat brand attack and it gets old. There was no need for your comment and it added nothing to the good comments in your post of which there were many.. Disclaimer: I DO NOT OWN ANY OF THE BOATS ATTACKED
Quote: " if the yacht stays put in the harbor, where hunters, bennies and jenniuies belong, then fine, this is what they were manufactured for." Please do us a favor and try to refrain from attacks on boat brands that are unwarranted. If you have nothing nice to say please DON'T!! Remember this is a forum that was originally designed and created for, as the header of the site states: "Beneteau, Catalina, C&C, Hunter SHARED FORUM MacGregor, O'day".. The rest of your post is spot on but you often seem to throw in a boat brand attack and it gets old. There was no need for your comment and it added nothing to the good comments in your post of which there were many.. Disclaimer: I DO NOT OWN ANY OF THE BOATS ATTACKED
Thanks for not mentioning Catalinas Ron
You would have hurt my feeling. I was going to buy a Super Amel or an Oyster but it didn't fit at my dock or in the budget. ;-) I have made a major compromise in aesthetics by adding an enclosure and then to make matters worse I put a couple of solar panels on top of it. I do draw the line at davits though. We bought the boat new with no canvas on board and spent the last half of September and all of October travelling between Bellingham, Seattle and Port Townsend meeting with the broker and various professionals who installed the needed equipment. She did look sleek with no canvas, radar dome and all that other stuff but I would not want to cruise with her set up like that. Up here in the PNW we need our canvas so that we can use the boat 12 months of the year.
You would have hurt my feeling. I was going to buy a Super Amel or an Oyster but it didn't fit at my dock or in the budget. ;-) I have made a major compromise in aesthetics by adding an enclosure and then to make matters worse I put a couple of solar panels on top of it. I do draw the line at davits though. We bought the boat new with no canvas on board and spent the last half of September and all of October travelling between Bellingham, Seattle and Port Townsend meeting with the broker and various professionals who installed the needed equipment. She did look sleek with no canvas, radar dome and all that other stuff but I would not want to cruise with her set up like that. Up here in the PNW we need our canvas so that we can use the boat 12 months of the year.
Function is beauty
I like simplicity but I also think useful and well-built gear is attractive. In the PNW we don't need biminis so I removed ours including the mounting hardware. It served no purpose. I have added a pedestal guard with fold down table, drinkholders and a support for my chartplotter. Some think it is overkill for a small craft but it improves our comfort and our safety. Plus it is well built. I think it looks great. The best thing about my boat - NO EXTERIOR TEAK! ;D ;D ;D Give me stainless steel any day!
I like simplicity but I also think useful and well-built gear is attractive. In the PNW we don't need biminis so I removed ours including the mounting hardware. It served no purpose. I have added a pedestal guard with fold down table, drinkholders and a support for my chartplotter. Some think it is overkill for a small craft but it improves our comfort and our safety. Plus it is well built. I think it looks great. The best thing about my boat - NO EXTERIOR TEAK! ;D ;D ;D Give me stainless steel any day!
Isn't beauty in the eye of the beholder?
What looks beautiful to one, is just OK to another. I prefer function to beauty. Much to the chagrin of my wife and my dock mates. The wife must have it look just perfect. I need it to be function and be accessible. I say I don't care if the "color" matches, but I really do, not that I'll do anything to change it though. If it works. It's good. I try to stay within the overall lines of the vessel. To me, a well rode vessel is more important, than a vessel that sits and looks perfect and is not used. Organization is the key to functionality. A well organised, well used vessel is a good vessel. Looks are unimportant, at least to me. Keep it up, Ctskip "never judge a book by it's cover"
What looks beautiful to one, is just OK to another. I prefer function to beauty. Much to the chagrin of my wife and my dock mates. The wife must have it look just perfect. I need it to be function and be accessible. I say I don't care if the "color" matches, but I really do, not that I'll do anything to change it though. If it works. It's good. I try to stay within the overall lines of the vessel. To me, a well rode vessel is more important, than a vessel that sits and looks perfect and is not used. Organization is the key to functionality. A well organised, well used vessel is a good vessel. Looks are unimportant, at least to me. Keep it up, Ctskip "never judge a book by it's cover"
Does anyone remember
who said "Life is too short to own an uly boat"? I believe it was a famous boat designer. Might have been John Cherubini. Tony B
who said "Life is too short to own an uly boat"? I believe it was a famous boat designer. Might have been John Cherubini. Tony B
A sailboats looks
A boat designed by a qualified naval architect usually looks nice and sails nicely problems arise when too many gadgets and comforts of home are added to a vessel to small for all these bells and whistles. Down harbor from me is a 27ft bucaneer this boat so ive been told has lenolium on the cabin sole. With Its short stumpy mast mast and shallow draft the boat is just plain ugly and sails that way too. There are others boats that are not pleasing to the eye but beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
A boat designed by a qualified naval architect usually looks nice and sails nicely problems arise when too many gadgets and comforts of home are added to a vessel to small for all these bells and whistles. Down harbor from me is a 27ft bucaneer this boat so ive been told has lenolium on the cabin sole. With Its short stumpy mast mast and shallow draft the boat is just plain ugly and sails that way too. There are others boats that are not pleasing to the eye but beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Funny thing about boats.
I wanted new technology, fast, efficient and easy to maintain. What I got was old, full of mahogany and a challenge to keep bristol. After one sail though, I was hooked! Nothing sails like a wooden yacht, especially to weather. No boom, boom when ya plow into waves, just the sound of the waves parting and rushing past the boat. Is she a handful? At times but the joys of sailing her far outweigh that.
I wanted new technology, fast, efficient and easy to maintain. What I got was old, full of mahogany and a challenge to keep bristol. After one sail though, I was hooked! Nothing sails like a wooden yacht, especially to weather. No boom, boom when ya plow into waves, just the sound of the waves parting and rushing past the boat. Is she a handful? At times but the joys of sailing her far outweigh that.
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