Mooring costs vary significantly across not only various clubs and marinas, but also, how the charges are calculated. Some will have a fixed price for a “30 foot slip”, while others charge per sqf..

While both “Best” and “Budget” are subject to interpretation, “Cruisers”, in this case, are simply defined as; Sailboats with suitable accommodations for multi-day trips. (Head, Galley, Water, Standing Headroom.) SailSavvy.org’s own definition adds: …and with recognizable priority of space and livability over performance. As for budget, the first category, “Stingy Sub-Compact” may satisfy the most cost-adverse of sailors. “Best” is best suited for you to decide, after all, it’s your boat!

Savings come in more ways than the cost of acquiring a safe boat for your intended purpose. The TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) over a time period will likely far exceed the value of said boat. In this article, “total” is approached with attention to detail and with significant research conducted prior to authoring. For example; Many home insurance policies in the USA and Canada can be extended to cover a watercraft up to 26 feet and with no more than 50 HP. (May vary by Provider) Sometimes at a fraction, yes an actual, literal fraction, of what a separate Marine Insurance policy would cost. The difference can easily be $400 or more per year. Which is quite significant considering that boats in this range can be had for under $2000. Free isn’t unheard of even! -and that’s for “turn key” ready-to-sail-away boats!