The cost of fuel is soaring, which frustrates boaters, especially those who own powerboats. And the yacht owners are hit the hardest with the rising cost of gasoline as their fuel costs can be in the thousands of dollars. But fortunately for sailboat owners, gasoline isn't that much of a priority, because wind power is still free from taxation, as far as we all know.

Although many small sailboats carry small outboard motors (kickers) with engine output less than ten horsepower, most of the real travel distance is done through open sailing. While a gas tank might cost ten dollars to fill, and will most likely be necessary around docks, inlets, marinas, and around tidal waters, sailing is much cheaper on the open water than its motorized counterparts.

Yes, a powerboat can reach its destination much quicker than a sailboat, but sailing is half of the fun, and the savings in the pocketbook and to the environment makes sailing a much more satisfying and less guilty experience than cruising along in a yacht.

While I'm not trying to create an argument between sailboat owners and powerboat owners, there is no question that when it comes to gasoline and the wallet, the sailboat owner is going to win. Only the rowboat owner is going to beat the sailboat in this challenge.