For decades, shorthanded cruisers have easily managed boats in the 40- to 50-foot range, but two things have contributed to a sudden growth in shorthanding. First, new technology, from engines to electronics, is allowing shorthanders to cruise farther, safer and easier. Second, the growth in adventure travel—partly as a result of the Covid pandemic—is encouraging more twosomes to cast off, knowing they won’t have to give up home-type amenities or careers (with Starlink on board).
What are the main considerations for joining the shorthanded-cruiser community? Here are the key factors.
THE YACHT
The starting point, of course, is choosing the yacht. Many vessels are touted as being cruising yachts when they are best suited for weekend overnighting. Filtering out the hype is your first task: Look for things like top speed (you don’t need it); fuel- and water-tank sizes for range (get lots of both, unless you
