Crusing Yachts ???

[Jacothebrave]

From Namibia(south west side of Africa) and have noticed during the time we get visiting cruisers (Jan-April) that about 70% of these yachts are Ketch’s or Yawl’s and rest Sloop’s. Most of these yachts are from Indian Ocean around Cape of Good Hope (well travelled cruisers)
My question is there any specific reason for this.

[Celestialsailor]

Usually as a boat get to a certain Length/Displacement which requires a large amount of sail to push her through the water, it is easier for a limited crew (sometimes only 1 or 2) to handle the sails if she is a split rig like a Ketch. There are draw backs...Generally does not point as well as a cutter or sloop. I use to have an Ingrid 38 Ketch. With the bowsprit she was 46 ft. over-all. She could be a handful at times. I usually had myself and 2 others. Generally I like single handing. This is one of the reasons I went to a smaller boat. The sails are easier to handle and I can come and go as I please.