Is It Better for an Older Novice to Learn Sailing or Powerboating for Long-Term Sea Cruising?
Introduction
Long-term sea and ocean cruising can be an exhilarating experience, but choosing the right vessel is crucial for both comfort and safety. Whether one opts for a sailboat or a power boat depends on several factors, including the type of cruising you intend to undertake and personal preferences. This article explores the pros and cons of both options for older sailing novices, offering insights based on practical experience and historical context.
The Case for Sailing
Historical Context and Design
A significant advantage of sailing is the rich heritage and design philosophy of sailing vessels. Traditional boats like the Bluenose, a renowned fishing vessel from Newfoundland, were built for a purpose, often with a full keel and self-righting characteristics. These features contribute to stability and safety in rough weather conditions. The full keel provides a heavy lead along the bottom of the hull, which helps to keep the boat stable and correctly positioned in the water, even in adverse conditions.
The use of a full keel and self-righting capability remains essential in modern long-distance sailing. However, the oscillation of the boat over long distances can be physically demanding. The traditional sway of a sailing boat, with occupants constantly adjusting to the motion, can be tiring. For individuals seeking extended periods of sea travel, modern fast planning sailing boats may not be the ideal choice due to their harsher motion.
Pros of Sailing
Harmony with Nature
One of the primary reasons many seasoned cruisers prefer sailing is the deep connection with nature. Sailing boats designed for long-term ocean travel, such as catamarans and trimarans, offer a smooth and consistent movement, relatively free from the harsh pounding of waves. A key consideration is the frequency of oscillation. A boat that oscillates too much can lead to physical discomfort, particularly for older sailors whose bodies may not adapt quickly to this motion.
Stability and Control
Another significant advantage is the ability to maintain a steady sail, which is crucial for long-haul cruising. A sail too tall can significantly compromise control and comfort. The oscillation frequency, combined with the height of the sail, must be carefully managed to ensure the best possible experience. Sailing boats with an auxiliary inboard engine provide a compromise between the traditional and modern, offering the stability and control needed for long-distance travel without sacrificing too much on physical comfort.
The Case for Powerboating
Comfort and Control
Powerboats, especially those with inboard engines, offer a different level of comfort and control. Modern powerboats are designed to handle rough sea conditions more gracefully, thanks to advancements in hull design and propulsion technology. The reduced oscillation and wave slamming experienced in powerboats can be more comfortable for those who are not used to constant motion.
Practicality and Durability
Powerboats also offer greater maneuverability and speed, allowing for more practical and efficient navigation. The ability to travel long distances quickly can be crucial, especially when meeting up with other enthusiasts in remote locations. Additionally, modern powerboats are often more robust and easier to maintain, making them a practical choice for extended cruising.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision between sailing and powerboating for long-term sea cruising depends on individual preferences, experience, and the specific cruising plans. For a seasoned sailing novice, the wisdom of seasoned ocean travelers suggests that full keel self-righting sailboats with auxiliary engines offer the best of both worlds – the comfort and control of modern design, combined with the harmony with nature and traditional practice.
Choosing a boat where the hull shape and design are optimized for long-distance travel, and where the occupants can enjoy a relatively smooth motion, is crucial. While it's true that some traditional rowing designs are specifically tailored to face the harshest conditions, the modern designs still offer significant advantages in terms of comfort and safety.
Those considering long-term sea and ocean cruising should try various boats under different conditions, not just rely on brochures. Understanding the physical demands of sea travel and the characteristics of different boat designs will help in making a well-informed decision.
Keywords
sailing, powerboating, long-term sea cruising, full keel, self-righting boat