With their robust construction, fuel efficiency, and spacious interiors, trawlers are ideal boats for long-range cruising and liveaboard use. This complete guide provides an in-depth look at the many benefits of trawler boats and yachts.
What is a Trawler?
A trawler is a type of power boat designed for slow, steady cruising. Trawlers trace their origins to commercial fishing vessels used for trawling – dragging large nets behind the boat.
Today’s trawler yachts have evolved into comfortable cruisers perfect for extended voyages. Modern trawlers come in a range of sizes from 35 to over 100 feet.
There are two main types of trawler boats:
- Displacement trawlers – Hull moves through water by displacing or pushing it out of the way. More seaworthy at slower speeds.
- Semi-displacement trawlers – Hull is designed to plane at higher speeds. Compromise between displacement hull and planing boat.
In addition to recreational use, trawlers are still employed as commercial fishing boats, research vessels, and cargo ships.
Brief History of Trawlers
Trawlers grew out of commercial fishing boats in the 19th century. These early sailing trawlers used nets dragged behind the boat to catch fish. Steam trawlers then enabled fishing vessels to tow much larger nets.
Diesel engines further revolutionized trawling in the early 20th century. Larger steel-hulled trawlers were built for offshore and deep sea fishing.
After World War II, companies began converting commercial trawler hulls into more comfortable leisure boats. This launched the trawler yacht we know today.
As recreational trawlers grew in popularity, boat builders began designing models specifically for pleasure cruising. Today trawlers make excellent long-range cruisers.
Common Uses for Trawlers
Thanks to their seaworthiness, efficiency and liveaboard comfort, trawlers excel in these popular roles:
- Long-range cruising – With their range and load capacity, trawlers are ideal for extended coastal or offshore cruising.
- Full-time liveaboards – Their spacious interiors provide comfortable full-time accommodations.
- Expedition cruising – Trawlers are well-suited to exploring remote areas given their self-sufficiency.
- Second homes – Many trawler owners use them as vacation homes moored in desirable locales.
- Snowbirds – Cruising “snowbirds” head south in trawlers each winter to warmer climates.
While slower than most power boats, trawlers make up for it with their offshore capabilities and livable interiors.
Key Features of Trawlers
Trawlers have distinct characteristics that make them so well-suited for serious cruisers and liveaboards.
Hull Design
- Displacement or semi-displacement hull for optimal stability and seakeeping
- Full keel for tracking and directional stability in heavy seas
- Bulbous bow to increase buoyancy and fuel efficiency
Power and Propulsion
- Single or twin inboard diesel engines with high torque output
- Lower horsepower relative to vessel size, favoring range over speed
- Propellers optimized for thrust at trawling speeds
Deck Layout
- Bow platform and side boarding doors ease line handling
- Clear side decks surrounding enclosed wheelhouse for safe passage fore and aft
- Aft cockpit with additional steering and controls
Accommodations
- Spacious interior volume for expansive galley, saloon, and staterooms
- Low profile simplifies moving around below decks
- Panoramic windows and skylights provide natural light and visibility
These attributes make trawlers stable and seaworthy passagemakers perfect for enjoying life at sea.
Benefits of Owning a Trawler
Beyond their great looks, trawlers offer many practical advantages for cruiser owners.
Seaworthiness and Safety
- Proven hull designs provide comfort and keep you safe in rough conditions
- Stability and redundant systems give peace of mind far offshore
- Low decks and wide side decks prevent falls overboard
Fuel Efficiency
- Displacement hulls and optimized power need less fuel to cruise
- Smaller engines provide better mileage compared to planing boats
Range and Cruising Capability
- Large fuel tanks (up to 1,500+ gallons) allow cruising range up to 4,000 nautical miles
- Capacity for extended provisioning for weeks or months away
Comfort and Livability
- Thoughtful layouts make the most of interior space for living aboard
- Well-insulated interiors lower noise and keep comfortable in any climate
- Many include amenities like washers/dryers and watermakers
All of these factors make trawlers extremely capable cruisers ready for adventure.
Popular Trawler Models
Many manufacturers offer proven trawler models. Here are specifications on some of the most popular designs:
Kadey-Krogen 39
- Loa: 42 ft
- Beam: 14 ft
- Draft: 5 ft
- Displacement: 38 tons
- Fuel Capacity: 800 gallons
- Top Speed: 10 knots
- Cruise Speed: 7-8 knots
- Range: 1,500 nm
Nordhavn 40
- Loa: 45 ft
- Beam: 15 ft
- Draft: 5 ft
- Displacement: 69 tons
- Fuel Capacity: 1,200 gallons
- Top Speed: 10 knots
- Cruise Speed: 7-8 knots
- Range: 3,000 nm
Grand Banks 43 Heritage EU
- Loa: 44 ft
- Beam: 15 ft
- Draft: 4 ft
- Displacement: 37 tons
- Fuel Capacity: 800 gallons
- Top Speed: 11 knots
- Cruise Speed: 8 knots
- Range: 1,000 nm
Mainship Pilot 31
- Loa: 35 ft
- Beam: 13 ft
- Draft: 3.5 ft
- Displacement: 16 tons
- Fuel Capacity: 300 gallons
- Top Speed: 12 knots
- Cruise Speed: 8 knots
- Range: 1,000 nm
This sampling shows the range of proven trawler models on the market from leading manufacturers. Visit trawler dealers to explore additional models and find the perfect trawler yacht for your needs.
Conclusion
For boaters seeking supreme seaworthiness, economy, and livability for long voyages, trawlers can’t be beat. Their proven hull designs provide stability and comfort offshore while their efficient engines offer excellent range. Plus, trawlers boast spacious, thoughtfully-designed interiors perfect for extended time aboard.
With models available from 35 to 100+ feet, there’s a trawler for any cruising lifestyle. Given their many benefits, it’s no wonder trawlers have become a top choice among serious cruisers and liveaboard boaters. For your next adventure, consider making it a trawler!
