The size of your trailer sailer will be restricted by the width limits placed on road vehicles by the authorities in various countries or individual states. In general the width limit is 8 ft (2.43 m) however in some places it is a little more generous but usually never exceeding 9 ft ( 2.74 m) without special permits. As far as the length is concerned, a boat with 8 ft (2.43 m) beam should not exceed 28 ft (8.53 m) in overall length. Before you restrict yourself to the local legal trailer width, you may want to consider just how often you really intend to move the boat by road. Many people find it is easier to leave their 'trailer sailer' in the water all season and just bring it home for winter storage; if this is your situation then it may be more useful to exceed the trailerable width limit by owning what is a 'Pocket cruiser' and obtain a permit to move the boat to and from the water twice a year.

   If you intend to use your boat as a true cruising trailer sailer then you will need to check width limits and other requirements for the areas where you operate the boat. In the EU (European Union) these regulations are being harmonised so that you can trail your boat across borders using one set of rules. This agreement will make trailer sailing much more attractive; you can take your boat from the UK by ferry and trail it anywhere in Europe (using it as a camper or caravan along the way) and commence your cruising from some desirable location. You could even leave your boat and trailer safely tucked up in a boat yard ready for the following season. If you can not afford a large boat at this time or if you prefer some of the benefits of owning a smaller vessel including lower initial investment and less maintenance, then a trailer sailer or pocket cruiser may suit you best.