By Bill Springer

During years of keeping my finger on the pulse of the new-boat market, I’ve seen boats get bigger and more complicated. I’ve seen construction materials and techniques evolve to produce lighter and stronger hulls. And I’ve seen the word “daysailer” used for everything from a 15-foot trailersailer to a sumptuous cruising boat measuring well over 40 feet. As this year’s fleet of new boats shows, the new ideas that have been gaining momentum over the past several years are becoming mainstream. The most obvious change is powered by a growing segment of the sailing population who want boats that are suited to the time constraints of our modern American lives. New “daysailers” of all shapes and sizes have never been more popular, because that’s what the majority of us have time for. So it should come as no surprise that some of the most interesting designs in this year’s fleet fall into the “daysailer/weekender” category. But the fresh thinking doesn’t stop there. There are new and innovative designs among the cruisers, racers, and multihulls as well. MORE