Why Don’t More People Like Sailboats? Unpacking the 5 Big Myths

Sailboats—romantic, serene, timeless. So why do they make up less than 1% of all boats in the U.S., and even fewer of new boat sales? Despite their charm, the sailboat lifestyle hasn’t exactly taken America by storm. In fact, their popularity has been sailing downhill since the 1980s.

So what’s the deal? Let’s unpack five of the biggest reasons people shy away from sailing—and why those reasons might not be as valid as they seem.

1. “Sailboats Are Way Too Complicated”

At first glance, sailboats can look like a spaghetti monster of ropes and pulleys (known as “lines” in sailor-speak). Even a relatively simple 32-foot cruising sailboat has lines running all over the deck—from the mast to the stern, to the cockpit and cabin top.

This setup can look intimidating if you don’t know what you’re looking at. But here’s the truth: you rarely need to touch more than a few of those lines at once. The rest? They’re just there for flexibility in different wind conditions.

Compared to a same-sized powerboat with twin V8 engines, complex dashboards, and mechanical systems like trim tabs and power steering, sailboats actually offer a different kind of simplicity. Fewer engine parts mean fewer things to break—and usually fewer maintenance headaches.

2. “Learning to Sail Is Too Hard”

Yes, there’s a learning curve—but it’s not Everest.

Learning to sail can be as easy (and cheap) as renting a Sunfish on a local lake after a quick $25 class. But some modern yacht clubs have turned sailing into a lengthy and expensive certification process. Multi-week courses can run hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars, with some students needing multiple summers to get certified.

No wonder people get discouraged.

But here’s the secret: You don’t need all that. A small, used sailboat and a few hours of YouTube videos can teach you enough to start cruising around safely. It’s more about curiosity and confidence than credentials.

3. “Sailboats Are a Lot of Work”

Sure, sailing takes a little more effort than pressing a throttle. But is it really that much more work?

Not really. You motor out of the marina just like a powerboat, raise the sails (takes about five minutes), and enjoy the ride. For most of your sail, you’re relaxing, autopilot on, soaking in the breeze. Maybe you tack once or twice. Then it’s another five minutes to lower the sails and head back in.

And as for single-handing a sailboat? Totally doable. With a smart setup and the right line routing, even boats up to 28 feet can be handled solo. Some folks even race 60-footers around the globe alone. It’s more about the setup than the sailboat itself.

Even cleanup time is comparable. Powerboaters spend just as much time zipping up canvas, covering electronics, and hosing things down. The difference is minutes—not hours.

4. “Sailboats Are Too Expensive”

Here’s a surprise: sailboats and powerboats are generally priced about the same when you compare apples to apples.

A 30-foot sailboat from the 1980s? Around $15,000–$25,000. Same goes for a 30-foot powerboat from the same era. And if you’re going smaller, the gap shrinks even more—used jet skis and tiny trailer-sailers both start around $500–$1,500.

At the marina, dockage fees don’t care whether you’ve got sails or motors. A 30-footer pays the same either way.

But here’s where sailboats shine: fuel. A sailboat’s main fuel source is the wind. You might fill the diesel tank once a season. Compare that to hundreds of dollars per outing in gas for a big powerboat.

Add in lower engine maintenance, longer-lasting gear (like sails), and fewer moving parts, and sailboats actually win the cost race over time.

5. “Sailboats Are Too Slow”

Okay, this one’s true.

A 30-foot sailboat typically tops out at around 6–7 knots (about 7–8 mph). You’re not getting anywhere in a hurry. A powerboat of the same size? It’ll do 25–30 knots no problem, turning a six-hour trip into one.

That’s a real limitation for weekend warriors with limited time.

But here’s the flip side: if you enjoy the journey, there’s nothing like a sailboat. It’s peaceful, quiet, and you’re actually doing something—not just sitting behind a throttle. And when the wind’s up and the waves are big, a sailboat handles it all with grace and adventure. On days when most powerboats stay docked, sailboats can thrive.

So… Who Is Sailing For?

Sailing isn’t for everyone. If you want to go fast, get somewhere in a hurry, or don’t have time to tinker or learn a new skill, powerboating probably fits better.

But if you’re okay with going a little slower… if you find peace in the wind and waves… if you love the idea of harnessing nature to travel… then sailing might just be the best decision you ever make.

Final Thoughts: Is It Time to Raise Your Own Sails?

Sailboats get a bad rap—but when you separate myth from fact, they hold up surprisingly well. They’re not more expensive. They’re not harder to handle. And they’re not necessarily more work.

They’re just different.

So, if you’ve ever looked at a sailboat and thought, “maybe someday,” then maybe today is the day to give it a real shot.

Curious about sailing? Share your story or questions in the comments—and don’t forget to hit subscribe. There’s always more wind on the horizon.