Choosing the Right Boat Size: Complete Buyer’s Guide

Choosing the right size boat isn’t just about how many feet fit into a berth — it’s about finding the perfect match for how you plan to use your boat, where you’ll keep it, and who you’ll share it with. With so many models and configurations available, narrowing down the right size can simplify your entire buying journey.

Before you get lost comparing dozens of options, ask yourself this: What do I want to do on the water? Once you answer that, you can begin to define the size that suits your needs.

This guide explores the core aspects of choosing the right boat size through the “ABCD” lens: Activity, Berths and Berthing, Cabins and Comfort, and Driving (transportation). It’s designed to help you focus your search, eliminate unsuitable options, and move confidently toward your ideal vessel.

A — Activity and How You’ll Use the Boat

The type of boating you plan to do is the number one factor in determining size. Your activities will define how much space you need on deck, below, and in storage.

Examples:

• If you're aiming for big-game offshore fishing or want a boat ready for extended cruising with gear and guests, you’ll likely be looking in the 15–20 meter (50–65 ft) range. This offers enough space for equipment, comfort, and fuel range.

• For a young family planning weekend cruising or protected coastal trips, a 10 to 11 meter (33–36 ft) boat is often ideal. These boats typically have two cabins, safe walkarounds, and a single-level deck for sunbathing, dining, or handling lines with children onboard.

A compact boat with thoughtful deck layout and enclosed helm can go a long way for first-time owners, especially when comfort and practicality are priorities.

B — Berths and Berthing

Where you plan to keep the boat — and how you plan to handle it — will also impact your choice of size.

Mooring Limitations

Many marinas and dry storage facilities have maximum allowable dimensions for berths, especially when it comes to length and beam. Before purchasing, always verify:

• The maximum size allowed at your preferred berth
• Seasonal or long-term contract terms
• Transferability if you’re buying a boat with a current berth included

If you’re planning to berth your boat at home on a private dock, or on a mooring ball, tidal variations and local regulations may also affect what's feasible.

Handling the Boat Solo or with a Small Crew

If you expect to operate the boat yourself or with one other person, then handling characteristics and systems become just as important as interior layout. A boat that's too large to control comfortably in tight spaces or windy conditions can be stressful.

Real-world example:

In areas with katabatic winds (strong, descending gusts common in mountainous coastal regions), ease of docking becomes critical. Look for boats with:

• Good helm visibility and access to bow/stern lines
• Bow or stern thrusters
• Intuitive control systems

For couples or short-handed crews, a boat in the 9 to 12 meter (30–40 ft) range often offers the ideal balance of comfort and control.

C — Cabins and Comfort

When choosing the right boat size, interior layout matters just as much as overall length. Comfort is personal — and depends heavily on how many people will stay on board, and how long your trips will be.

For couples or families:

A boat with one main cabin and a secondary bunk room is often sufficient. Many cruisers in the 10–12 meter (33–40 ft) range offer space-saving solutions like convertible saloons, fold-down (Pullman) berths, and compact galleys — perfect for short trips and weekend cruising.

For cruising with friends or guests:

If you plan to travel regularly with other adults, separate sleeping cabins and at least two heads (bathrooms) will make a significant difference. Boats in the 12–15 meter (40–50 ft) range typically provide two or three cabins, larger social zones, and greater overall privacy.

For long-distance cruising or living aboard:

If you're planning extended time at sea or seasonal onboard living, you'll need:

• Full-beam master suites with standing headroom
• Ample storage for clothing, provisions, and equipment
• A fully equipped galley with room for appliances
• Optional crew quarters with private head and shower

At this level — typically 15 meters (50 ft) and above — yachts begin to offer residential-style comfort, with dedicated spaces for living, entertaining, and extended cruising. These needs are best met by larger, more capable models such as those from the Squadron, Azimut, or Sunseeker ranges.

Tip: Many entry-level cruisers feature convertible layouts, such as a saloon that transforms into a berth. This helps maximize utility without inflating the size or cost of the boat.

D — Driving: Transport and Trailerability

If road transport is part of your boating plan — whether for winter storage, changing coasts, or avoiding marina fees — then physical transport limits must be factored in.

Key limitations for trailering:

• Length: Most boats over 10 meters (33 ft) require special permits when towed. The combined boat and trailer length is often limited to 12 meters (40 ft) in many regions.

• Width: The standard legal towing width without escort in many countries is 2.55–2.6 meters (8.5 ft). Wider boats require special wide-load permits and may be restricted to certain roads or times.

• Height: Including the trailer, total height should not exceed 4.3 meters (14 ft) to pass under bridges and overpasses. Boats with radar arches or flybridges may exceed this.

• Weight: Total mass determines the size of the towing vehicle, trailer rating, and braking requirements.

If your priority is mobility, and you want to tow the boat to different destinations or store it on land, then a boat in the up to 9 meter (30 ft) range is the practical limit for standard trailers.

Example Models by Size and Purpose

Fairline Targa 45 Open (2023) – A mid-size sport cruiser approximately 14 meters in length, featuring an open cockpit and spacious layout. With two cabins, a comfortable saloon, and excellent handling, it’s ideal for both family cruising and entertaining friends. A perfect choice for owners seeking a stylish, performance-oriented yacht that can be easily handled short-handed.

Fairline Phantom 65 (2023) – A premium-class yacht measuring around 20 meters, designed for long-distance cruising and luxurious onboard living. It offers three or four cabins, a full-beam master suite, a large flybridge, and dedicated relaxation zones including fold-down balconies and a beach club. Ideal for experienced owners who value space, autonomy, and high-end finishes.

Fairline Targa 53 Open (2018) – A versatile open-style yacht measuring 16.2 meters, with three cabins, a light-filled saloon, and an expansive swim platform. Suitable for both day trips and extended stays on the water. This model offers a well-balanced mix of size, power, and comfort — making it a great step up for owners moving from compact cruisers to larger, liveaboard-capable yachts.

Final Thoughts: Size Is About Fit, Not Just Length

Choosing the right boat size isn’t about going as big as you can afford — it’s about finding a vessel that fits your lifestyle, skills, and future plans.

To recap:

• For family day trips or beginners: Boats around 9–11 meters (30–36 ft) offer comfort, simplicity, and affordability.
• For group cruising or more amenities: The 12–15 meter (40–50 ft) range allows for multiple cabins and luxury features.
• For long-term cruising, entertaining, or crewed operation: Look at boats 15–21 meters (50–68 ft) with space for guests, crew, and equipment.
• For mobility and overland transport: Stick to boats under 9 meters (30 ft) and within road-legal dimensions.

Once you’ve clarified how you’ll use the boat, where it will be stored, and who will be onboard, the right size often becomes obvious. Don’t choose based on ego or assumptions — choose based on purpose.

And remember:

You can always upgrade later. Many owners start small, gain experience, and grow into larger vessels as their needs evolve.