Power-Boating Or Sailing?
Fueling The Debate Between “Stink Potters” And “Rag Baggers”
When it comes to choosing between power-boating or sailing, there is no telling which is better. Of course, a power-boat is more convenient as you can practically sit back, operate the boat, and enjoy the water instead of continually adjusting the sail. However, there are other factors to consider as well.
Take stability, for instance. Power boats are usually lighter than sailboats of the same size. They are faster as well, but in heavy waters, a power boat is less stable than a sailboat. That doesn’t mean powerboats are always topsy turvy. A big powerboat will obviously handle the weather better than a small sailboat.
A lot depends on your purpose of sailing as well. If you want to sail in the lake for calm and serenity, then the motor noise on a power boat can be a problem. But if you love speed and power, then engine noise will not bother you.
Safety is crucial, and this is where sailboats appear to be better. Many couples go out for a sail on twin powerboats, but it takes only a single engine failure to ruin the trip for both. Sailboats offer a safety envelope even if the engine stops running.
Finally, we have the cost factor, which for many is the most important one. On longer journeys especially, fuel costs for a powerboat will typically be higher than a sailboat. Sailboats, hence, are the better economic choice.
Ultimately it depends on your preference. While both power and sailboats require sailors to have considerable mastery over essentials (anchoring, weather, safety etc.), treading the waters on sailboats requires more dedication. Sailboats offer you a challenge and a ‘hands-on’ experience, but power boats are more popular among the two in the US. Take your pick!
Fatima M.
Freelance Blogger
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