As the 2023 sailing season draws to a close, we reflect on a year that saw an unprecedented surge in the popularity of sailing. With over 10,000 customer reviews from over 80 countries, we’ve navigated the seas of opinions to bring you the five boats that made the most significant waves this year.
Boataround’s five most popular boats of 2023 are:
- Bavaria Cruiser 46
- Lagoon 42
- Beneteau Oceanis 46.1
- Bavaria Cruiser 37
- Bavaria Cruiser 41
1. Bavaria Cruiser 46
This versatile sailboat remains a family favourite, winning the European Yacht of the Year 2015 in the family cruisers category. Its design caters to leisure and adventure with a spacious cockpit featuring an open stern and a bathing platform. Dual steering rudders ensure responsive handling even in challenging conditions. The interior is thoughtfully designed with four cabins and three toilets, providing ample space for families or groups. The U-shaped kitchen is perfect for preparing meals at sea, and the yacht’s storage solutions are practical and plentiful. Despite a heavy displacement that affects speed and manoeuvrability, its robust construction and comfortable amenities make it a popular choice among sailors.
Check our latest review of Bavaria Cruiser 46
2. Lagoon 42
Launched in 2016, the Lagoon 42 catamaran has been a hit for its balance of performance and comfort. Sailors were particularly fond of the spacious cockpit, which seamlessly integrates with the surrounding seascape, and the helm station was noted for its superior visibility and sail handling. The interior, featuring a welcoming saloon with a U-shaped galley, was frequently highlighted in reviews for its comfort and ample natural lighting. Customers also appreciated the safety features and the thoughtful design of the deck and living spaces.
Check our latest review of Lagoon 42
3. Beneteau Oceanis 46.1
The Oceanis 46.1, crafted for those who value precision and comfort in their sailing experiences, stands out for its smart design and swift sailing capabilities. Its wide platform with an integrated bathing ladder enhances sea accessibility and onboard leisure. The ergonomically designed cockpit centralizes controls for safety and convenience while providing a spacious area for relaxation. In collaboration with Nauta Design, the interior showcases refined aesthetics and varied finish options, emphasizing comfort, natural light, and storage. Performance-wise, the Oceanis 46.1 impresses with its new hull shape and multiple rigging options, catering to various sailing preferences.
4. Bavaria Cruiser 37
Described as 'small but mighty', the Bavaria Cruiser 37 has been a favourite for those who seek a perfect balance between sporting performance and leisure comfort. It’s notable for its modern twin-wheel setup and the option for solar panels, making it enjoyable and practical. Reviewers have repeatedly praised the innovative storage solutions and the comfortable cabins, making it a top choice for small groups and families.
Check our latest review of Bavaria Cruiser 37
5. Bavaria Cruiser 41
Evolving from its predecessors, the Cruiser 41 has been widely commended for its large swim platform and the redesigned, more open cockpit. The interior, particularly the straight galley and spacious seating area, has received high marks for both functionality and aesthetics. Customers also appreciated the attention to detail in the construction, such as the robust flooring and efficient bilge drainage system, emphasizing the Bavaria brand's commitment to quality.
As we bid farewell to an exciting 2023 sailing season, we thank our sailing community for sharing their experiences and look forward to another year of adventure and discovery on the seas. Fair winds and following seas until we meet again in the next sailing season!
