shoal keel sailboats

Best Shallow Water Sailboats

Last Updated by

Jacob Collier

December 28, 2023

When it comes to the best shallow water sailboats, there is plenty of debate between brands. This differs from one person to the next, especially sailing goals.

Shallow water sailing is a unique experience, allowing you to explore lower draft areas where larger boats cannot. So what boats are the best for shallow waters?

The Hinckley Talaria 55, West Wight Potter 19, Catalina 22, and Fountaine Pajot Alegria 67 are excellent options to consider. These cover a wide range of prices, drafts, and space on the boat. Other options include the Pacific Seacraft Dana 24, MJM 53z, and the Outback Yachts 50.

The beauty that most shallow draft boats have is the ability to handle rough waters too. This way you can still explore other areas sailing and go back to shallow waters when you want.

According to expert sailors, there are plenty of places in the world you cannot explore due to the draft limitations. Having a boat that can explore shallow waters is something that larger boats will be unable to do.

Table of contents

‍ 13 Shallow Draft Sailboats to Consider

When looking for the best shallow draft sailboat, a lot of boats fit that criterion. However, each one will need to fit the individual buyer’s needs in size, price, and functionality.

Hinckley Yachts Talaria 55 MKII

While most people think of sailing as strictly using sails, there are boats in use that are powered by motors. For example, the Hinckley Talaria 55 has all of the capabilities of sailing but uses motors for power.

The way the boat has been designed, in addition to the lightweight, allows it to have a shallow draft of about three feet. This will let you explore shallow waters, unlike other larger boats.

If you do not want to compromise luxury and the size of your boat, this is an appealing option to look into. Especially as a larger boat nearing 55 feet long, you have the opportunity to handle shallow waters whenever you want. The prices start at around $750,000 and up.

West Wight Potter 19

You have likely seen this popular boat online for the last decade. It is built by International Marine, which is resilient in creating reliable sailboats.

There have been design changes over the years, allowing it to have more storage and slightly easier to sail. At just 19 feet long, it is a bit easier to handle than other larger boats.

With its rugged build, you can explore harsher waters without giving up any luxury. Due to its design, you can comfortably explore shallow waters, especially with the lifting keel that you can adjust. You can find older versions for around $7,000 and up.

Catalina 22

The Catalina 22 offers a beautiful mix of sport and luxury. With its retractable keel, it makes it easier to haul and to explore shallow waters.

The boat drafts between two and five feet, depending on the extra weight on board. This makes for a great opportunity to explore shallow waters.

With 22 feet of room on board, you can easily have a handful of people on board to travel days at a time. Whether you take it out on the weekends or spend quality time with family, you can go just about anywhere. The prices start around $13,000 for models over 20 years old and go up in price significantly for newer versions.

Fountaine Pajot Alegria 67

One of the more luxurious catamarans out there with a shallow draft is none other than the Fountaine Pajot Alegria 67 . This boat is roughly 70 feet long and has a draft of fewer than six feet.

There are plenty of options available for sailors that want the best of everything when it comes to cruising, living aboard, and exploring shallow waters. The amount of room is enough for large groups and you would not have to worry about “roughing” it.

If you are looking for a larger boat to host parties or enjoy the space, this catamaran has everything you could ask for. The prices start at around $1,200,000 for slightly older models.

Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20

If you want a traditional looking sailboat with the added bonus of a shallow draft, then check out the Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 . As one of the more convenient options out there, you have a lot of features to live aboard or travel whenever you want.

There are plenty of accommodations, such as a pop-up dining table, foldable chart table, and customizable rooms. The only drawback is that there are only 400 of these made, so finding one might prove to be difficult.

For a 20-foot sailboat, there is plenty of room to stretch your legs. If you can get your hands on one, these typically have sold for around $30,000.

Another high quality sailing yacht , the MJM 53z has all the speed and luxury you need. In addition, the maximum draft is just shy of four feet when the outboards are tilted down and the engine is up.

Like the other yachts mentioned, this one has plenty of features to accommodate plenty of people on board. You can find this one around $2,295,000.

Outback Yachts 50

Out of all the sailing yachts mentioned thus far, the Outback 50 offers plenty of room without being too big to handle. It also boasts all luxury accommodations you could ever want, in addition to having just a three foot draft to explore shallow waters.

There are two models you can choose from, either the infinity deck or the extended deckhouse that have slight variations to accommodate your and your guests. They also showcase an unobstructed 360 degree view within the galley, allowing you to have beautiful views no matter where you are. Depending on the year and model, you can expect to pay around $1,200,000.

Laser Pico Dinghy

If you want something a little bit smaller without breaking the bank and great for entry level sailors, try checking out some dinghies. The Laser Pico is a great example of a boat that fits many budgets and can accommodate roughly two people in more shallow waters.

With the daggerboard keel and removable jib and mainsail, you can easily set up your rig before setting sail. It typically drafts between seven and nine feet depending on the weight in the dinghy. You can find used ones for around $1,500 and up depending on condition.

If you have plenty of experience handling a dinghy sailboat, then the RS Aero might be worth some attention. Whether you are racing or cruising in this sailboat, you have the ability to check out some shallow waters too.

It weighs roughly 66 pounds, making it one of the lightest dinghies out there. It also seats just about a foot in the water, making it possible to go anywhere.

For this particular dinghy, you are likely to pay a little more compared to others. You can typically find them for around $10,000.

The Wayfarer is another great option for a dinghy if you feel like cruising on a 16-foot boat. This one in particular is widely used in training schools and has sold over 12,000 boats.

It also has a classic sailing look to it, with a fractional rig sloop and a centerboard keel. It also drafts around three feet, making it plenty capable of exploring shallow waters.

Depending on the year and condition, you can find these for just a few thousand dollars. Newer ones range up to $12,500, but will obviously have all the design upgrades you need.

The 251 XSS , starting at around $112,000, is an excellent option for cruising or fishing in deep water. It is actually one of the first designed boats to handle inshore and offshore fishing, allowing you to experience the best of both worlds.

With just 13 inches in the water, you will likely never have to worry about running aground. In addition, this gives you plenty of luxury to enjoy your fishing or sailing experience.

175 Sport Dorado

Another choice for sailors that enjoy fishing, the 175 Sport Dorado has an even shallower draft compared to others. For around $44,000, you can enjoy cruising along the coast or offshore.

This boat sports a draft of 10 inches, so there is no need to worry about hitting anything. For the price point, it gives you everything you need without hurting your bank account.

The 177 Sport is just a slight step below the 175 in terms of price and features. However, you can still enter shallow waters with its 10-inch draft.

It is priced around $36,000, but you might be able to find it in a slightly cheaper pre-owned market. With the draft, you should never have to worry about scratching the hull.

Why You Should Consider a Shallow Draft Sailboat

The draft of your sailboat will determine what you are able to do on the water. The deeper the draft, the better the stability usually is.

Boats that have a shoal draft are ones that have a shallow draft in comparison to others of the same size. These might have a slightly different keel or other adjustments to make the boat able to enter shallow waters.

The term “shoal draft” is the boat’s ability to check out shallow water near shoals. So it is important to understand certain features when shopping for a shallow draft sailboat.

How to Find the Perfect Shallow Draft Sailboat

While no sailboat is going to be perfect, you can narrow down your search if you know what to look for.

Every sailor has their preferences on what they want for a shallow water sailboat.

This includes the keel type, price range, and even the size of the boat. Depending on your situation, you can break it down to fit your needs.

For starters, the price is going to deter a lot of sailors from certain boats. After all, you can only afford what you have to spend. Setting up a budget or at least knowing how much you can afford to pay for a loan is going to be key.

Your location might make a difference too, as some boats might be in a prime location. Using Florida as an example, they have the most registered boats in the United States. This could be a good opportunity to shop around if you happen to be close by.

Size of Boat

While some shallow boat options can range between 10 and 70 feet, you have to decide what you want to experience. This also reflects in price, as the larger boats will cost more.

If you have a lot of people that you want to include on your boat, you might want to factor that in. If you plan on sailing with just another person, a dinghy might be more up your alley. The larger boats are typically heavier too, so this should be accounted for when looking at the draft.

Advantages of a Shallow Draft Sailboat

There are two main reasons why shallow draft boats are better than deeper draft boats. This would be the ability to navigate shallow waters and less of a chance of damaging your keel or boat in shallow areas.

Pass Through Shallow Waters

It should come as no surprise when buying a boat with a lower draft, as the whole point of buying a shallow draft sailboat is to enter shallow waters. The boat is better equipped to travel through shallow waters due to the keel type and the design.

The keel is the deepest part of the boat, as it sits beneath the boat to provide stability. It is always a good idea to know exactly how deep your boat sits, regardless if you plan on checking out shallow water or not.

Chances of Damaging Your Boat Decrease

Depending on where you sail the most or plan to sail, there could be plenty of areas where the water is not deep. This is true around the Florida keys or even the Caribbean, which have shallow drafts everywhere.

If you have a boat with a shorter keel and a shallow draft, this will decrease the likelihood that you will not encounter damage. Even if you do not plan on encountering shallow waters, you will be less likely to hit anything.

Disadvantages of Shallow Drafts

While there are plenty of reasons why sailors would consider choosing a sailboat with a shallow draft, there are some disadvantages to take note of. These include stability and righting of the boat.

Since there is a shorter keel, there is not the same level of stability as boats that have deeper keels and larger drafts. The longer a keel is, the more stable the boat will be.

You are also limited on the keel type, as most shallow draft boats will either have a lifting keel or something that does not hang as low. While you are capable of taking your sailboat to deeper waters, rough conditions might not be that enjoyable.

Differences in Righting Movement

This is another example of a stability issue, but slightly different. The boat’s ability to maintain “right” or remain stable is very important.

In shallow draft boats, the feeling of being on board during rough conditions might not be the best. Some are equipped with the ability to change the ratio of the ballast, but this could take some practice.

Types of Shallow Draft Keels

The keel can make a huge difference to any sailboat, as it has certain advantages that separate one from another. Depending on the keel type you have, it can help provide stability but also allow for shallow draft areas.

A fin keel is a standard keel type that you will see on many boats, not just shallow water sailboats. These are usually adjustable to add more or less profile to the ballast.

Another variation that you will often see that is similar to a fin keel is a lifting centerboard keel. These are excellent options for sailors wanting to explore shallow waters and not have to worry about running aground.

A wing keel offers plenty of stability without hanging too low underneath the boat. These are often found on boats with shallow drafts, due to their unique design of a wing.

While this keel type has plenty of advantages, the only drawback is that it might create suction in shallow waters. This could cause you to be moved over into mud or currents.

A bulb keel is great for stability and righting movement. They usually have a high aspect ratio with ballast at the bulb, so this is typically a good bet for shallow water boats.

The beautiful thing about this keel is that even if you do get stuck, they are relatively easy to get back out. They can also take a beating, just in case you do happen to overestimate your depth.

Catamarans are not a type of keel, but they should be included since they do not have one. Interestingly enough, these boat types do not need a keel to remain stable.

Every catamaran will have a shallow draft and will be able to enter shallow waters. Without a keel, there is no risk of damaging it or the boat itself.

These boat types have two parallel hulls, sometimes more for trimaran boats, that keep the boat stable. For shallow water boats that include a lot of room and luxury, these are great options.

Best Sailboats For Lakes

Best Bluewater Pocket Sailboats

Born into a family of sailing enthusiasts, words like “ballast” and “jibing” were often a part of dinner conversations. These days Jacob sails a Hallberg-Rassy 44, having covered almost 6000 NM. While he’s made several voyages, his favorite one is the trip from California to Hawaii as it was his first fully independent voyage.

by this author

Best Sailboats

Most Recent

What Does "Sailing By The Lee" Mean?

Daniel Wade

October 3, 2023

The Best Sailing Schools And Programs: Reviews & Ratings

September 26, 2023

Important Legal Info

Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.

Affordable Sailboats You Can Build at Home

September 13, 2023

Best Small Sailboats With Standing Headroom

Best Bluewater Sailboats Under $50K

Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats

Can a Novice Sail Around the World?

Elizabeth O'Malley

June 15, 2022

Best Electric Outboard Motors | Life of Sailing

4 Best Electric Outboard Motors

How Long Did It Take The Vikings To Sail To England?

10 Best Sailboat Brands | Life of Sailing

10 Best Sailboat Brands (And Why)

December 20, 2023

7 Best Places To Liveaboard A Sailboat

Get the best sailing content.

Find Out the Best Shoal Draft Sailboats

Feb 17, 2020

less than a min

re you looking to buy a boat or a yacht? Are you new to the whole naval industry and the marine world? Are you utterly confused right now? It does sound like the beginning of a very random ad, however do not panic! If you are looking to buy a boat and are not sure where to start, know that this is something common for many people. The boating industry is a very interesting and complex one, offering a variety of models and makes with different characteristics that could or could not be appropriate for you. As a result, before buying a boat or settling on a model, make sure to do your research properly . A good first step is to learn the terminology and what different sailboats have to offer.

Let’s start with what a shoal draft sailboat is and what the best shoal draft sailboats can offer you.

A shoal-draft sailboat has a non-centerboard fin keel. They offer the ability to enter very shallow waters and even sail in those waters. That is the main advantage shoal draft sailboats display compared to center-line keels. They are easier to maneuver in complicated situations and their fins take up less interior space. Also, they require less maintenance overall.

The 3 best shoal draft sailboats

Shoal draft sailboats have become quite popular in the last few years due to their undeniable advantages. Here are the three best shoal draft sailboats that you should have a look at before making a purchase.

BENETEAU FIRST 435

The Beneteau First 435 is a 1980s construction that became popular quite fast. It features a big hull that allows for ample accommodation space. It includes a three-cabin/three-head layout as well as an aft cabin with a peninsula bed. As a result, during the 80s and 90s this yacht was considered a large one. It also came with the opportunity to choose between a shallow or deep keel, or even three keels, a 2.3-meter draught fin, a 1.9-meter shallow fin and a centerboard, however this model was not much in demand.

The Bavaria 40 Cruiser is a big boat featuring a large space at a convenient price due to its design and engineering. It was first built in 2000, with two types of keels, the deep iron, a 1.95-meter draught, and a shallow iron, a 1.65-meter draught. It has a three-cabin and a two-heads layout. In addition, the interior space is well lit and aerated.

JEANNEAU SUN ODYSSEY 36.2

The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 36.2 is a shallow fin sailboat with a 1.37-meter fin. The boat still remains stable when on water due to an increased ballast. The hull of this model is well proportioned and allows for comfortable accommodation space. It also features a big fore-cabin, aft cabin, and a large aft heads compartment area. All in all, this is a good model for those looking for a comfortable cruise boat rather than a race boat.

You can compare these three boats with other models on TheBoatDB and decide for yourself which one is the most appropriate for you!

You might like these too

Sailboat or Motorboat – Learn the pros and cons lg ...

Aug 24, 2022

Types of Catamaran Boats: Sailing, Power, and Luxury Catamarans lg ...

Feb 10, 2023

Which is better a wooden boat or fiberglass boat lg ...

What are the main types of sail rigs for sailboats lg ...

Which is the Best Economical Catamaran lg ...

Oct 04, 2021

What is a Chine on a Boat lg ...

Oct 01, 2021

Types Of Shoal Draft Boat & The Benefits Of A Shoal Keel

A shoal draft boat out of the water showing shorter keel

The draft of a boat determines the depth of water that the boat can be used in. You may be aware of a shallow draft boat, that is used to navigate very shallow waters, and a deep draft boat, that can be used in the ocean and deep turbulent waters.

What Is A Shoal Draft Boat?

Why a boat can benefit from a shoal draft keel, 1. shoal draft yachts, 2. shoal draft sailboats, 3. shoal draft catamarans.

Summary: What A Shoal Draft Boat Is & Its Main Uses

A shoal draft boat is one which has a shallower draft than other boats of comparable size.

For example, a sailboat, which usually has a full length keel, may be said to have a shoal draft if it is fitted with a shorter keel.

A shoal draft boat can be used to navigate waters that are too shallow for a similar sized deep draft boat.

Thus a shoal draft boat can be used closer to shore and near shoals.

Boats that usually need a shoal draft are ones that are used to sail through both shallow and deep bodies of water.

These boats are usually sailboats, catamarans, and yachts.

Shoal draft is usually used to refer to the draft of sailboat that is capable of being used in the ocean and in shallow areas near the shore or close to shoals. Shoal draft is achieved through the use of a shorter keel, sometimes called a shoal draft keel or simply a shoal keel .

Having a shoal draft allows a sailboat to navigate through fairly shallow bodies of water, such as near shoals or close to the shoreline, as well as giving it the ability to remain fairly safe when out in deep open waters.

Mariners who regularly use their boats to navigate shallow water areas or areas with submerged banks benefit the most from a shoal draft boat.

Boats with shoal drafts give the mariner the ability to traverse shallower waters without running the risk of damaging the boat’s keel and/or grounding the boat.

Three Common Types Of Shoal Draft Boats

Below are the three most common types of boat that have can have a shoal draft:

Catamarans.

Yachts are normally used for cruising, racing, and recreational purposes. This is a type of boat is known for being a luxurious cruiser that is used in fairly local waters.

There are two types of yachts:

Sailing yachts.
Motor-powered yachts.

Many yachts will have a shoal draft because they are so often used near shorelines.

Many manufacturers offer the option of a full length keel, for those yacht owners who like long-haul ocean excursions and would benefit from having a deep draft vessel.

But, they also offer a shorter “shoal keel”, in order to give the boat a shoal draft, to those mariners who like to cruise around gulfs, shoals and shorelines and other shallow areas of open water.

Sailing yachts have two more sub-classes which are:

Racing sailing yachts.
Cruising sailing yachts.

The main difference between the two above mentioned yachts is that the first favors better performance over comfort and the second is more focused on comfort rather than performance.

These types of yachts are oftentimes fitted with shorter keels so the boat has a shoal draft.

A motorized yacht can also be fitted with a shorter keel so the boat has a shoal draft for the same reasons a sailing yacht would need one.

The most common type of shoal draft keels are bilge keels, fin keels, and lifting keels.

3 examples of shoal draft sailing yachts with bilge keels are:

Hunter Duette.

3 examples of shoal draft sailing yachts with lifting keels are:

Feeling 326
Super Seal 26.

3 examples of shoal draft sailing yachts with fin keels are:

Bavaria 40.
Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 36.2.

Sailboats are usually small sized boats that use wind power.

Not as luxurious as yachts, sailboats are often working boats used or fishing though they are commonly used for racing and recreational activities as well.

Sailboats are usually equipped with a shoal draft keel because it makes it easier to navigate the boat through shallower waters.

Giving a sailboat a shoal draft allows the boat to be more versatile in the water and opens up much more areas to the mariner.

Having a shoal draft on a sailboat gives the advantage of creating minimal dredging in shallow waters.

This capacity to navigate shallow waters is useful but not so much so that it comes at the expense of being able to the ability to traverse safely through an ocean.

Shoal draft boats cannot access the same type of very shallow water as a flat bottom or shallow draft boat .

There is a lot of variety and many different models to choose from when looking for a sailboat with a shoal draft.

Examples of shoal draft sailboats:

Morgan 28-1.

These are in fact two of the cheapest shoal draft sailboats on the market currently, both of which have a draft of 3 feet and cost around $15,000 apiece.

A shoal draft catamaran is designed with two hulls.

This unique design results in a boat that has much more stability and balance over a traditional single hulled vessel.

The first catamarans were constructed of two logs lashed together like a sort of small makeshift raft , and later two canoes were lashed together to form the same type of vessel.

This type of primitive catamaran was originally designed as a fishing vessel and fashioned in a double-hull manner for extra stability on the water but over time their purpose has expanded.

Nowadays, you can see catamarans being used as ferry boats, as well as for recreational offshore and ocean-going sailing.

A cruising catamaran usually has a draft of less than 3 feet which allows it access to areas that are not usually accessible to traditional monohull boats.

Unlike other shoal draft boats, that have a shorter than normal keel (a shoal keel), a catamaran has no keel at all.

Some examples of cruising catamarans with a shoal draft are:

Seawind 1160.
Seawind 1260.

Although catamarans are considered to be ocean-going vessels the lack of a keel means that in very rough seas and very bad weather conditions, a catamaran may not fare well as a boat with a keel.

Summary: What A Shoal Draft Boat Is & Its Main Uses

In most cases shoal draft boats are boats that have a shoal keel that is slightly shorter than the standard keel of a similar sized boat.

This feature allows the shoal draft boat to navigate both fairly shallow water and deep choppy water.

Although a shoal draft boat is not capable of navigating the type of inland shallow waters that a flat bottom boat can, like a Jon boat for example, it does have the ability to navigate shallower areas than a deep draft boat can.

This is an advantage for people who want the capability of navigating through shallower parts of the water such as near shorelines, shoals or submerged banks but who do not want lose their ability to navigate ocean waters.

Usually the type of boats that have a shoal draft are sailboats, catamarans and yachts.

Yachts are usually used for cruising and recreational purposes near shorelines and thus need a shallower draft than ocean-going vessels of a similar size.

A sailing yacht. although capable of long-haul journeys, is a boat that is also usually used near shorelines or not that far out to sea.

These yachts therefore also benefit from having a shoal draft for the same reasons their motorized cousins do.

Shoal draft yachts usually have either fin keels, bilge keels, wing keels, or lifting keels. We covered these keel types in more detail in the article what is shoal draft .

Another type of a shoal draft boat is the sailboat.

Sailboats are usually used for racing, recreational cruising or as a working fishing boat.

A lot of people who own sailboats opt for a boat with a shoal boat because it offers a wider variety of water bodies to navigate and can be used close to the shoreline.

Catamarans are a type of sailboat that have no keel at all.

Due to the lack of keel, and fairly flat bottom hull which allows a catamaran to navigate shallow waters, it is said to be a shoal draft boat.

The two hull design of a catamaran gives the boat a lot of stability in the water and with a draft that is less than 3 feet, it is ideal for shallower open water areas.

A downside to a catamaran’s shoal draft is that it not as stable in very turbulent waters when far out to sea.

Mick McGrath

Recent Content

DIY Boat Restoration: Tips and Tricks for a Budget-Friendly Makeover

Restoring an old boat can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to breathe new life into a beloved vessel. While it may seem like a daunting task, with the right tips and tricks, you can embark on...

518 Illustrated Boat Plans

518 boat plans for less than the price of your lunch! MyBoatPlans Reviews MyBoatPlans is a comprehensive collection of 518 boat plans, 40 videos and about 500 pages of boat building guides. I've...

Yachting World

Digital Edition

Jeanneau SO410 review: lift keel opens up options

Toby Hodges
October 21, 2021

With its lift keel option, the Jeanneau SO410 has a potent trump card: It has the draught of a Class 40, yet can also nose into the shallows. Toby Hodges was intrigued

Product Overview

Manufacturer:, price as reviewed:.

If you sail in tidal harbours or shallow waters, your choice of midsize new production yachts is more limited than you may realise. While most manufacturers offer a shallow draught version of their fixed keels by adding more weight to the bulb to compensate for the reduction in righting moment, this is not a compromise all sailors are willing to make. Jeanneau, on the other hand, has long offered a lift keel on its smaller models, yet by doing so on something the size of the new Jeanneau SO410, it has established a clever niche.

The Vendée yard certainly didn’t follow the status quo when it developed its eighth-generation Sun Odyssey line three years ago and the Jeanneau SO410 adds to a string of innovations for this latest range.

First came the groundbreaking bow and hull shape, together with the walkaround deck design on the SO440 and SO490. Now comes this lift keel option, which is technically a hinging ballasted keel. It is a similar concept to that employed by Pogo for its performance yachts, yet Jeanneau is the only large scale cruising yacht manufacturer to offer such a system.

Consider the fact that the standard draught of a Jeanneau SO410 is a conservative 2.25m and the shoal keel version just 1.6m deep. Alternatively, this lift keel version reaches down to 2.97m/9ft 8in, which is the draught of a Class 40 race boat and a substantial difference in potential pointing ability. Then, at the push of a button at the helm, this swings up to reduce it to just 1.37m/4ft 5in.

This €20,000 option is therefore a prospective game-changer for those wanting to sail efficiently to windward. For example the owner of the test boat, which is the first lift keel version of this model in the UK, wants to sail regularly from Falmouth to the Isles of Scilly with his large family. So he wants to cut passage times when sailing against the prevailing westerlies yet be able to tuck into the coves on arrival.

We had a brief opportunity to sail his new boat with agents Atlantic Yachts in Plymouth before it was handed over the following day.

Jeanneau SO410 under sail

The SO440 and SO490 were the forerunners for this modern trend in hull shapes and first impressions of the Jeanneau SO410 are of another contemporary, powerful, aggressive-looking design.

This Marc Lombard interpretation continues and refines that full bow, chined and chamfered look – elements which help give maximum internal volume yet keep the wetted surface narrow. The forefoot and first 0.5m below the dreadnought bow is also noticeably dry.

Chines help create volume and stability, while twin rudders give the beamy hull plenty of grip. Photo: Josh Tarr

A bow thruster is an option most owners reportedly take and while that sounds like overkill for this length of boat, I can understand why. The light, voluminous bow gets taken by the wind easily when under motor, which makes manoeuvring tricky, particularly in reverse.

Typical British summer conditions greeted us in Plymouth Sound, with 15-20 knots westerly winds that were really puffy under the dark clouds. It was the first time the boat had sailed, so I was surprised and impressed with how quickly and easily the Jeanneau SO410 found its groove. It never felt pressed and was easy to maintain good speeds (very close to the polars in fact).

We averaged 7 knots beating and 9 reaching. It was also a fun yacht to sail off the wind, deep reaching with the swell, where we nudged 9.5 knots with the Code sail. I was left wanting more, which is always a good sign.

The bowsprit integrates the bow roller, an option needed to keep the anchor clear of the reverse stem. Photo: Josh Tarr

Worthy of note were the form stability of the hull shape and the ability this keel gives you to point high to the wind (tacking through 70°). It remained very light on the helm, yet with enjoyable and direct control. Marc Lombard is a veteran designer of race yachts around this length, so the performance and handling of the SO410 should perhaps come as no surprise.

The grip of the deep twin rudders and deep keel gave me plenty of confidence to sail around the moored yachts in Cawsand Bay. Sailing heeled and powered up on the wind is addictive. The mainsheet and genoa sheets are on neat bridle systems and while the latter allows for adjustment to lead the sheets inboard for tight pointing, the lack of a traveller option means it’s almost impossible to trim the main to a similar high angle.

The deep swing keel lifted. Photo: Josh Tarr

Managing the sheets from the two aft winches is a little fiddly. You need to pre-plan tacks to ensure the new working genoa sheet will be on the correct winch, swapping it with the German-led mainsheet. However, a real benefit the ramped side deck design brings is the option to stand outboard to work the winch yet with the security of over 1ft of bulwark to brace against.

Both sheets on the test boat had clutches, which allow you to free up the winch, but can cause issues for genoa sheets during tacks if accidentally left on. We also found these sheets consistently snagged the forward mast base cleat during tacks, so moving or covering that cleat would be prudent.

The winches and pedestals are positioned right aft to maximise cockpit space, leaving a compact space behind the helms. However, you do have the option to either sit athwartships, or take the unique position of sitting facing forward with your legs outstretched on the side deck.

The resultant cockpit size is impressive, as is the protection afforded by the deep coamings and large sprayhood. There is no stowage for sheet tails so bags would need to be fitted to keep things tidy. Elsewhere, deck stowage is adequate in two shallow bench lockers, a quarter locker and a sail locker.

Jeanneau SO490 down below

The SO410 offers plenty of accommodation options, from two cabins and one heads to three cabins with two heads, and it is arguably the excellent proportions and the amount of space it provides in all areas that help it stand out from the competition.

Spacious, light and airy in the main saloon with a practical C-shaped galley. Photo: Bertrand Duquenne

This space allows for the inclusion of a proper navstation, ample aft cabins and an impressive en-suite owner’s forecabin. The slab topsides between the upper and lower chines helps create the beam in the galley, saloon and forward cabin.

Rectangular berth in the huge forward cabin. The lift keel version angles this berth. Photo: Bertrand Duquenne

Below decks has a modern apartment feel and I liked the fabric on the bulkheads and neat stowage solutions throughout. The central galley configuration, which has a practical C-shape for working at heel, is one of the main differences over the old SO409. It includes a deep fridge and ample stowage.

The door to the forward cabin has been offset to allow space for the keel box, which removes the option of a convertible double berth in the saloon. The central chaise longue is a great feature and makes clever use of the keel box. A very comfortable seat in the heart of the boat, it also extends out flat to make a nice child’s berth. The manual pump for the keel ram is mounted below and there is a spy glass for checking the ram position.

The forward cabin has an intelligent layout too. By angling the headboard and berth against the forward bulkhead it creates room for a proper rectangular berth (as opposed to a typical V-shape) as well as a good en-suite heads and shower compartment offset to port, which is the same size and configuration as the aft heads.

There is also plenty of space and light in the near identical aft cabins, which have low berths, modest stowage, and large side access panels into the engine room. The curved and fiddled joinerwork, notably the central stowage unit between navstation and galley, provide good support when walking around at heel. Dampeners and spacers are used on the soleboards to prevent some creaking, but unfortunately much of the plywood endgrain has been left exposed and unsealed.

If you enjoyed this….

Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.

The SO410 has a smart modern hull shape which offers good sailing manners and behaviour, and has been used wisely to create an appealing accommodation layout. It’s another versatile model from Jeanneau, and one with an added twist – a proper trump card option. If you want a 40ft+ production yacht with shoal draught but deep keel performance, this is the only option. It will allow you to effectively take the competition at the traffic lights and claim the inside track, then when you get to your destination you’ll be able to pick the best parking place too.

6 Most Popular Types of Sailboat Keels

If you’re new to sailing, you might be wondering what that wing-like object is doing attached to the bottom of your sailboat. Well, that would be called the keel and it serves some important functions so that your sailboat can… sail!

So what are the different types of sailboat keels? The most common types of sailboat keels include full-length, fin, short, wing/bulb, bilge, and centerboard keels.

There’s a lot of useful knowledge when it comes to understanding keels since they take such a considerable role in making a sailboat a sailboat.

Knowing the different types of sailboat keels can really make a difference when heading out on the water for a nice sailing session.

Quick Keel Knowledge

Having a sailboat without a keel means you don’t have a sailboat.

As a matter of fact, when a sailboat is first constructed and tipped on its side to attach the keel, or laying the keel, this is considered the “birthday” of a sailboat and thus the initial time of construction.

One of the more interesting facts about keels is they find their origins all the way back in ancient China, which allowed them to expand their naval presence all around the world.

Of the different types of keels discovered were the use of adjustable centerboards and bilge keels.

Now, a keel is an important part of a sailboat because it provides two very important functions:

Converts the sideways force of the wind into forward motion.
Provides ballast (i.e., keeps your sailboat from tipping).

We’ll get into these important functions of a sailboat’s keel later on. For now, let’s dive into the different types of sailboat keels!

Different Types of Sailboat Keels

There are several common setups for sailboats when it comes to keels. Even though these types of keels differ from one another, they ultimately serve the same purposes.

However, it’s important to differentiate them based on use cases and other unique characteristics.

1. Full-Length Keel

A common type of sailboat keel is a full-length keel, which uses length rather than depth to provide a sailboat with a proper amount of life and ballast.

When it comes to the location of the rudder on a sailboat with a full-length keel, it’s often attached to the aft (rear) of the keel.

There are several advantages of having a full-length keel. One is that they’re well known for keeping a straight and steady course more easily due to the length and surface area, which makes for a relatively comfortable ride.

Also, if your keel runs aground (the keel touches the sea floor), there’s less likely to be a lot of damage due to a spread of the load.

However, there are some disadvantages to a sailboat that has a full-length keel. Due to the advantage of it staying straight and steady more easily, it’s also slower to turn (tack) when the rudder is moving.

This means you’ll have a longer delay between the turn of the rudder and the turn of the sailboat. Also, sailboats with a full-length keel are a bit slower than others due to the larger surface area dragging against the water.

2. Fin Keel

Another very common type of sailboat keel is a fin keel, which you’ll most likely find on more modern sailboats.

A fin keel has less surface area touching the water when compared to a full-length keel due to it taking on the shape of a… well a fin! This fin, however, sticks out of the bottom of the boat.

Just like the full-length keel, there are some advantages to having a fin keel on your sailboat.

The most obvious one when sailing on a boat with a fin keel is the speed since the fin keel has less surface area and a better airfoil shape just like a wing on an airplane.

A fin keel also provides for a faster response when tacking, which is great if you need to turn quickly.

There are also some issues with having a sailboat with a fin keel. One is that if you have high-powered winds hitting your sails, it’s likely you’ll feel the tilt of your sailboat relatively more than with a full-length keel. This is especially true for different types of sails .

Also, since the tacking is more responsive, you’ll need to spend extra attention on the track of the sailboat as you sail along. With a fin keel, you definitely need to be on high alert at times.

3. Wing/Bulb Keel

Wing/bulb keels are another type of sailboat keel that can be found.

As the name suggests, they take the shape of a wing at the very bottom of the keel and also can have a fat bulb centered at the middle-bottom of the wing. These types of sailboat keels are more often found are longer and heavier boats.

A boat that uses a wing or bulb keel has several advantages that other boats don’t have. For one, it provides a boat with greater efficiency due to a modified water flow that benefits the forward motion of larger boats.

It’s also relatively smaller in terms of surface area and quite hydrodynamic, so there’s reduced friction between the keel and the dragging water.

Similar to the fin keel, the wing or bulb keel has disadvantages related to having to spend greater attention when at the help due to a more responsive tack as well as being susceptible to heavy tilting during relatively strong incoming winds.

4. Shoal Keel

The shoal keel is a type of sailboat keel that’s virtually the same as a fin keel, only it’s a bit more shallow.

Due to it being less deep than a fin keel, it has the advantage of being better able at maneuvering around shallow areas. However, since it does have a smaller surface area it’s much more likely to tilt easier when the wind starts to pick up.

5. Bilge Keel

Bilge keels are a special type of sailboat keel due to them coming in pairs.

When a sailboat has a bilge keel, there will be two fins that stick out at the same angle from the bottom of the hull. Think of the fins of a shark and how they stick out at an angle from the bottom of the body.

There are some nice advantages of having a bilge keel on your sailboat. For one, they allow your sailboat to traverse through shallow water without going aground.

Also, if you let the boat dry out on land, it’s very convenient to simply let your sailboat sit on the fins of the bilge keel.

Some of the disadvantages of having a bilge keel on your sailboat include being difficult to free if ever aground since they might get stuck and not being as effective in reducing sideways slippage (leeway) underwater.

They also produce a lot of drag due to having a large wetted surface, which makes it difficult to sail at greater speeds.

6. Centerboard

Centerboards are another special type of sailboat keel because they can be lowered and raised mechanically. Being able to extend or retract a sailboat’s keel means your sailboat’s less likely to run aground, which makes it a fantastic option for coastal and offshore sailing.

One of the main advantages to having a centerboard is having the ability to retract it when entering shallow water, removing the chance of running aground.

Since you can effectively increase or decrease the surface area of your keel at will, you’ll be able to reduce draft and wetted surface resulting in finer control of the lateral resistance of your keel.

However, there are a few downsides to having a centerboard compared to virtually every other type of sailboat keel. One issue is that they’re rather difficult to maintain.

Another is that they have a ballast that is closer to the core of the boat resulting in the need to increase your sailboat’s ballast displacement. All of this ends up being a headache!

Keels Move a Sailboat Forward

How a keel is able to convert the force of sideways winds to forward motion is based in the science of hydrodynamics, similar to how airplane wings work based on aerodynamics . Essentially what happens is:

The wind hits the sails at an angle
The wind force causes the sailboat to tip
The keel resists the lateral part of the wind force
Energy from the angle portion of the wind force transfers to forward motion

This explanation is pretty basic, but should hopefully provide a clear insight into how a sailboat is able to produce forward motion thanks to the keel.

Sailing Ballast

One of the most important purposes of a keel is to provide ballast for a boat. Essentially, sailing ballast is the ability to resist the lateral forces of the wind based on the weight and size of the keel. As a matter of fact, this is a major reason why step 4 in the above list is able to produce forward motion.

Now, most keels are known to be made out of cast iron, steel, lead, and even concrete due to these materials being high in density. Back in the day during “olden times”, decent keels were made out of stone and sand.

When a keel has too little ballast, a sailboat tends to tip (heel) too much during high winds. However, if the keel has too much ballast, the sailboat is at risk of capsizing. That’s why a proper amount of ballast is required for light and heavy winds.

There are multiple ways of creating ballast on a sailboat. Apart from having a high-density keel, your sailboat could have a water ballast which allows you to adjust a certain amount of water sitting in your hull.

Another way is “live ballast”, which pretty much means the excess weight on the sailboat produced by us sailors.

Positioning dense weight below the hull to produce good ballast is important, which is why keels are the perfect place to put it.

In the end, proper ballast provides stability and speed for all types of sailboats and is an essential function of a keel.

Get the very best sailing stuff straight to your inbox

Nomadic sailing.

At Nomadic Sailing, we're all about helping the community learn all there is to know about sailing. From learning how to sail to popular and lesser-known destinations to essential sailing gear and more.

Quick Links

Business address.

1200 Fourth Street #1141 Key West, FL 33040 United States

Copyright © 2024 Nomadic Sailing. All rights reserved. Nomadic Sailing is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Sign In or Register
Boats for Sale
Research Boats
Sell a Boat
Search Alerts
My Listings
Account Settings
Dealer Advertising
Shoal Keel Sailboats

Shoal Keel Sailboats Boats for sale

1980 C&C 34 Swing Keel - Shoal Draft

Chesapeake City, Maryland

Make C&C

Model 34 Swing Keel - Shoal Draft

Category Sloop Sailboats

Posted Over 1 Month

We have owned "Surprise" since 2011. We have campaigned the boat successfully on the Bohemia River and upper Chesapeake Bay. The swing keel draws only 4’ when up and 6’10” when the board is down, making it prefect for the upper Chesapeake. Last season she won the ERYC Bohemia Bay Wednesday Night Racing series and the Gene McCord Memorial Race. “Surprise” continues to be a fast and competitive racer. The 150 genoa is on its second season. Sail inventory includes a main, #1 genoa, 1 spinnaker, 1 asymmetric drifter, … In addition, she has proved a comfortable cruiser for those times when we weren't racing. This 1980 C&C 34 Sloop offers a great deal of comfortable cruising for a very reasonable price. She has beautiful lines and is a great all-round boat with a good turn of speed. She is roomy below decks with over 6 feet of headroom and accommodations for six. Side decks are large permitting easy movement around the boat, and forward is a large anchor locker. Her bottom was painted in spring of 2022. The boat is in very good shape with a large V-Berth, Convertible Settee that sleeps 2 and a Port Aft Bunk that sleeps 1. Galley has a 3-burner stove/oven, sink and top loading ice chest. A single head to port and large hanging locker before the V-Berth. She has a Yanmar 2QM20 20 HP Diesel, 2 - 12V batteries + Inverter, Keel stepped mast, Furling Jib, two Danforth Anchors + 50 feet chain and 200 foot of rope, Maroon Sail Cover that matches Bimini, Dodger and wench covers. All lines led into the cockpit, sailing instruments in cockpit, 3 bumpers, and 50-foot Shore power cable. She has a custom cover for the winter. The new owner gets all this plus the equipment and accessories listed below. The 34 is considered one of C&C's better designs, equipped for racing and cruising. Call for a showing today. Contact Information: Paul Fruehauf 302-690-1929 (cell) - [email protected] Dave Schnelle 302-562-9318 (cell) - [email protected] Deck & Rigging: Four Large 2 speed (jib or spin sheet) winches in cockpit One Large 2 speed self-tailing winches on cabin top (main sheet) 2 Additional winches on cabin top 1 small winch on boom for outhaul Harken roller furling headstay All spinnaker gear (Spinnaker pole, launce bag, blocks and sheets) 4 to1 boom vang Pedestal steering with large SS Destroyer wheel Teak Cockpit table Teak drink holder on pedestal Traveler in cockpit at bridge deck Two Large Danforth Anchors with Rode Lifelines, gates P&S double rail bow and stern pulpits Track on mast for mainsail luff White painted mast & boom, double spreader, SS rod standing rigging Cockpit cushions Opening Transom gate with SS Swim Ladder Interior: Teak woodwork V berth with filler Settees P&S in salon Center dropleaf table Custom interior cushions, white plush fabric Teak & holly floorboards Galley aft to starboard with 3 burner propane stove and oven Pressure water Quarter berth aft to port Enclosed head/shower forward to port Marine toilet with holding tank Engine: Yanmar 2QM20 Diesel with service manual 16x10 folding propeller installed, spare 3 blade fixed prop Electrical & Electronics: 110-volt shore power with cord Two 12v batteries VHF radio Stereo with speakers Navman Electronics Knotmeter Depthsounder Windspeed & direction Compass GPS Sails & Canvas: Matching Mainsail cover, Bimini, Dodger and Wench Covers Mainsail #1 Genoa Furling Full size spinnaker Asymmetric drifter Winter Cover Other Equipment: Life sling Horseshoe Life Ring Dock lines Fenders Fire extinguishers Misc. Safety Gear Bolt cutters Radar reflector Wind scoop Screens Emergency tiller Binoculars Solar heated showers

1998 Catalina Wing Keel Shoal Draft 36 Mk II

Annapolis, Maryland

Make Catalina Wing Keel Shoal Draft

Model 36 Mk II

Category Sailboats

1998 Catalina Wing Keel Shoal Draft 36 Mk II The Catalina Mk II is spacious and offers a large cockpit as well as plenty of room below decks. The interior layout includes a fold up table, which allows a lot of space to move about and on the starboard side there are 2 chairs with cocktail table between. Moonshadow is very well equipped with:JRC RadarRadar poleDavitsOutboard motor mountApex dinghyElectric motorSirius/XM radio capabilitiesTVAirconNettle protection pool and more Come and take a look at Moonshadow.

1987 Catalina Yachts Shoal Draft Wing Keel

New Port Richey, Florida

Make Catalina Yachts

Model Shoal Draft Wing Keel

Features include aluminum mast and boom stainless steel standing rigging and self-tailing winches. the galley is equipped with cabinets with solid surface countertop stainless steel two-burner range with oven top loading ice box and stainless steel double sinks. Sails include full batten main sail and roller furling 135 jib. Forward is the main cabin with v-berth filler under-berth storage hanging locker with drawer and shelf storage and enclosed head with shower. Accommodations V-Berth Forward with Insert Enclosed Head with Vanity and Shower Open Salon Single Settee to Starboard Nav Station with Chart Table Double Berth Aft Convertible Settee to Port Foldaway Dining Table Full Galley Aft Galley Stainless Steel Double Sink Two-Burner Propane Range with Oven Ice Box Sharp Microwave Oven Six Gallon Water Heater Deck & Hull Danforth Anchor with 150' Rode Spare Danforth Anchor Three Opening Hatches Fiberglass Bimini Pedestal Steering with Engine Controls Standard Horizon VHF Radio with Remote 5" Ritchie Compass Folding Cockpit Table Bottom was painted 06/04/2009 with Nighthawk Tropicote Plus Biocide Sails & Rigging Main Sail with Reef Points and Cover Hood Roller Furler 135 Jib Whisker Pole Stainless Steel Rigging and Lifelines Two Lewmar 30 Winches Two Lewmar 16T Winches Mechanical & Electrical 14-hp Universal Model 18 Diesel Engine 120V Shore Power with Cabin Outlets Guest Battery Charger Deep Cycle House Battery Engine Starting Battery Disclaimer the Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale price change or withdrawal without notice. She has all the necessary accommodations for a family getaway. A buyer should instruct his agents or his surveyors to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. Auxiliary power is provided by a 14-hp Universal diesel engine. the wing keel allows for shallow draft cruising in Florida and the Bahamas. One of the most popular cruising sloops built she is easy to sail with roller furling jib battened main sail self-trailing winches cockpit controls and diesel engine. She features a roomy cockpit and comfortable interior with room for four. Call now to schedule a showing of this wonderful 30' Catalina Shoal Draft Wing Keel Sloop. the salon is open with L-shaped dinette foldaway dining table settee and chart table with storage and full galley. Built to accentuate style performance and comfort this Catalina has become the choice of sailors worldwide. 1987 Catalina Yachts Shoal Draft Wing Keel Location: Sarasota FL US (LOCATION: Sarasota FL) the Catalina 30 has earned an international reputation as the leader in her class. On deck we have a spacious cockpit with fiberglass top ample seating and centerline pedestal helm. There are comfortable accommodations for four people. Aft to starboard is a double berth. the interior is open and extremely comfortable. Overview This 30' Catalina is a one owner boat. Sailboats Cruiser 8536 PSN . Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a cruise to the islands this 30 footer is ready to accommodate...

Catalina 30 MK 2, 1988, Diesel, Wing Keel, Shoal Draft

Indiantown, Florida

Make Catalina

Model 30 MK II

Length 30.0

For sale is a very clean, 1988 Catalina 30 Mk II, with standard sloop rig, 3' 10" draft, and wing keel. The SHOAL DRAFT is perfect for Florida and Bahamas!Interior amenities include air conditioning by Eastern Marine, Hiller 2-burner propane stove with oven, 2 basin sink with pressure hot / cold water and refrigerator. Upholstery was all redone 2 years ago. The boat is powered by a 23 HP Universal Diesel, in excellent running condition and with approximately 1,400 hrs. Also included are dodger, bimini, full set of cockpit cushions and much more. Extra water tank yields total capacity of 50 gallons. Two extra 12V batteries (4 total).The Catalina 30 is one of the most popular sailboats built world-wide. Over 7,000 Catalina 30's have been built over a span of 30 years, and for good reason. The interior of the C30 has as much room as many 34 footers plus a full 6'3" headroom.Local pickup in Indiantown, FL. Buyer makes own arrangements for any other shipping requirements.Call Terry for more information or viewing. 772-485-5236.

28 ft cheoy lee offshore pocket cruiser.shoal draft sailboat with swing keel.

Solomons, Maryland

Make Cheoy Lee

Model Offshore 28

Length 28.0

Up for your consideration we have a pretty little pocket cruiser.big for 28'.needs some tlc.boat . this boat has been sailed all over chesapeake bay sailed from florida to solomons Md.. storage fee is $160.00 per month. shole draft would be great for the keys or bahamas the boat is dry docked in solomons ,md. please feel free to contact me via email [email protected] & if interested i can give you my phone #.. im located in wv & will meet @ the marina when auction has closed.. A depost of $ 500.00 will be made @ auctions end thanks for looking & good luck bidding....

2007 Colgate 26 Shoal Draft

Jersey City, New Jersey

Make Colgate

Model 26 Shoal Draft

2007 Colgate 26 Shoal Draft Fast, handsome, well maintained example of a beautiful flag blue (repainted 2012), shoal draft Colgate 26. Designed by the formidable team of Steve Colgate and Naval Architect Jim Taylor, this versatile keel boat has proven to be popular for day sailors, racers and pocket cruisers.The same model the US Naval Academy selected as its sail trainer, and Cruising World magazine named best pocket cruiser. Performs well and is easy to sail with newer sails and engine!

1987 Catalina 30 MkII Shoal Draft

Cortez, Florida

Model 30 MkII Shoal Draft

1987 Catalina 30 MkII Shoal Draft The Catalina 30 was the best selling sailboat of all time with more models produced than any other sailboat model and with good reason. Our 1987 model is very clean with good basic equipment and with a small investment in some electronics will provide many years of coastal cruising both in the US and the Bahamas. She is a standard rig and has a wing keel drawing 3'10" as well as an Inboard Diesel Engine.If you are looking for budget cruising and need a 30 footer with two double staterooms look no further. This Catalina 30 just may be your boat. Call now for your private showing.

1988 Pearson 31-2 Wing Keel

St Petersburg, Florida

Make Pearson

Model 31-2 Wing Keel

1988 Pearson 31-2 Wing Keel This 1988 Pearson 31-2 is the 3'8" shallow draft, wing-keel version of this popular sloop that is small enough for daysailing and large enough and sea-worthy for comfortable coastal cruising. Self-tailing Lewmar winches, quality Doyle sails, with Roller Furling 145% 2004 Genoa and 2006 Mainsail with Lazy Jacks, a Garmin GPSMap 440 color Chartplotter, Autopilot with remote, and a reliable and well-maintained Yanmar 2GM-20F 16hp engine all add up to a well-designed boat by Bill Shaw that has passed the test of time and perfect for the shoal waters of Florida, the Keys, and the Bahamas. The Seller has owned Naueika'a since 2003 and has a complete folder of maintenance records and upgrades done over the past 13 years. She needs some new upholstery and a new Bimini, but if you want a well-built boat with many other quality upgrades that will continue to hold its value and provide many years of fun sailing; schedule your personal inspection today.

1983 Irwin 34 Shoal Draft

Model 34 Shoal Draft

A stereo provides your background music. She features large cockpit and comfortable interior. the forward head compartment has vanity with shower. Auxiliary power is provided by a Yanmar 27-hp diesel engine. Day cruising is enhance by a spacious cockpit with pedestal helm with stainless steel wheel cushioned seating cockpit table and room for cocktails or alfresco dining. There is a stainless steel ladder for easy boarding after a refreshing swim. She is well equipped carefully maintained and ready to cruise in style. Sailboats Cruiser 8536 PSN . Call now to schedule a showing of this wonderful Irwin 34. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a cruise to the islands this beauty is ready to accommodate. the forward stateroom features v-berth under-berth storage bulkhead storage and hanging locker. the open salon has facing settees with dining table provide an area for relaxation entertainment or dining. Her four foot draft allows access to shallow water destinations. the dinette converts to provide a double berth. A buyer should instruct his agents or his surveyors to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. Wide side decks allow easy movement. Cockpit electronics include Autohelm along with speed wind and depth displays. 1983 Irwin 34 Shoal Draft Location: Fall River MA US (LOCATION: Fall River MA) This Irwin 34 has classic good looks comfortable accommodations and is designed to cruise in style. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale price change or withdrawal without notice. Across from the galley is a nav station with chart table electronics and chart storage. An eight-foot sailing dinghy provides access to thin water beaches. She is equipped with aluminum mast and boom with stainless steel rigging. Aft to starboard is a full galley with teak cabinets solid surface counter top stainless steel sink a three-burner gas range with oven ice box and ample storage for all your galley necessities. the roomy interior is designed for comfortable overnight and weekend getaways. Accommodations Forward cabin with v-berth ample storage and head with vanity and shower Open salon with sofa to port and a wraparound dinette to starboard Teak cabinets lots of storage Propane cabin heater Nav station with chart table electronics and electrical panel Full galley with gimballed 3-burner propane range with oven Cockpit Aft cockpit Bimini and dodger with new frames Cushioned seating Fold-away cockpit table Helm pedestal with wheel and wheel cover Two self-draining propane lockers with 11# tanks Helm & Nav Station HELM: Wheel steering with Autohelm Compass Wind Depth and Speed displays GPS Remote VHF radio NAV STATION: Chart table with swivel seat Depth sounder Radar Two VHF radios GPS Compass Chart storage Deck & Hull Shoal draft fin keel Anchor roller 35# CQR anchor with 35' chain and nylon rode 25# Danforth anchor with 35' chain and nylon rode 8' sailing dinghy Three-person inflatable dining Side-mount stainless steel boarding ladder Sails & Rigging Mainsail Roller-furling Jib & flasher Staysail Sail cover Lazy jacks Jib pole Mechanical & Electrical 1998 Yanmar 27-hp diesel engine New instrument panel in 2008 Three-blade propeller Four 6V batteries 30-amp shore power Electric head Propane water heater Disclaimer the Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. On deck we have bow and cockpit stainless steel rails...

2013 Beneteau 37

Riverside, New Jersey

Make Beneteau

2013 Beneteau 37 2013 Beneteau 37$186,900."Neverland"Neverland is a one owner , like new Oceanis 37 that has been well cared for and shows like new.• Bow Thruster• Full Canvas• Air Conditioning• In Mast Furling• Shoal Keel

1982 Bristol Ketch

Williamsburg, Virginia

Make Bristol

Model Ketch

1982 Bristol Ketch,1982 Bristol 32' Ketch. Good to Very Good condition. Shoal Draft (3'6" keel up - 7'8" keel down). New canvas all around, 24hp Diesel Universal engine freshly tuned up with new impeller, fuel filter, oil change and belt. 6'2 headspace in cabin. Wheel steering, sleeps 4 adults comfortably. Moving - Must Sell. $14,500 OBO. Includes paid slip fees until 1 Jan 2017. Will consider trade or partial trade for the right powerboat with trailer.Additional features;-Propane Stove, Oven and rail mounted BBQ-Coast Guard Registered # with all required rescue equipment-Garmin GPS 541s with two mounts. (one above wheel and one at cabin Nav Station)- Spotlight / deck light / running lights-Marine Band Radio-Cutter Rig installs easily when you want it-Roller furling on Jib-Full Bathroom, shower and sink-Sink (power or manually operated), icebox in cabin-Cabin fans, heater / fold down table in cabin-plenty of storage area in cabin and V berth-Solar Battery Charger with voltage cutoff-8' inflatable PRU-3 dinghy w/ Mercury 3.3hp outboard (runs great)-60 gallons of H20 holding tanks-30 gallon internal gas tank-anchor line snubber-bottom paint in Apr 2015-many spare parts, fenders and life jackets-Boat Survey in July 2012 (appraised at $32k)-$85/month (pull thru) slip available if you wish to keep the boat in the Williamsburg/Yorktown area. Slip fees paid up til 1 Jan 2017.This is a turn key sailboat - she's ready for your next adventure. $14500

2000 Hunter 290

Make Hunter

2000 Hunter 290 2000 Hunter 290If you're looking for a well maintained cruising sailboat, this should be the first on your list. The well thought out interior layout of the Hunter 290 makes for some surprisingly spacious and comfortable accommodations. The 290's deck layout and cockpit configuration make it a breeze to sail. This Hunter would make a excellent daysailer and coastal cruiser.• Garmin Chart Plotter• Yanmar 18HP Diesel - Low Hours• Sleeps 6•Shoal Keel

2001 Beneteau 331

2001 Beneteau 331 2001 Beneteau 3311 Owner Boat Sold New By: G.W.S.C.• 27 Westerbeke Diesel (581hrs)• In Mast Furling Main Sail• Roller Furling 140% Head Sail• Optional Shoal Lea Keel 4'4" Draft• Raymarine ST60 Tri Data (Depth, Speed, Log)• ST60 Wind Speed / Direction• ST4000 & Auto Pilot

2009 Morris M29

Dunedin, Florida

Make Morris

2009 Morris M29 GRACE was custom built for her knowledgeable owner with the shoal draft keel of 3' 8" draft. These beautiful Sparkman & Stephens designed 29' daysailers are built to a very high standard by Morris Yachts of Bass Harbor Maine. GRACE is being offered for sale due to a change in the original owner's plans.

1992 Beneteau Oceanis 370

Miami, Florida

Model Oceanis 370

1992 Beneteau Oceanis 370 TWO OWNER BOAT"Rock and Role" is a nice Beneteau Oceanis 370 with the desirable shoal draft wing keel (4'2") and in-mast roller furling mainsail. She is a well kept yacht featuring two ample cabins, a huge head w/separate stall shower, large and clean galley, abundant storage, huge cockpit with a very large built-in fiberglass table and an impressive deep and wide cockpit locker. She is nicely equipped with autopilot, central A/C, good quality ocean dodger and custom bimini top, inverter, 12V refrigeration system, and much more.

Narrow Results

Current search reset all.

Keyword: shoal keel sailboats
Hunter (12)
Beneteau (11)
Catalina (6)
Jeanneau (5)
Pearson (5)
Com-Pac (3)
Precision (3)
Endeavour (2)
Ericson (2)
Gulfstar (2)
Precision Boat Works (2)
American Fiberglass (1)
Andrews (1)
Bristol (1)
C & C Yachts (1)
Catalina Wing Keel Shoal Draft (1)
Catalina Yachts (1)
Cheoy Lee (1)
Cherubini (1)
Colgate (1)
Freedom Yachts (1)
Hunter Marine (1)
Mark 25 (1)
Seaward (1)
Tartan 37 (1)
WD Schock (1)
Warrior (1)
Sailboats (43)
Sloop Sailboats (26)
Cruiser Sailboats (6)
Daysailer Sailboats (6)
Pilothouse (1)
Florida (34)
Michigan (9)
New Jersey (8)
Maryland (6)
Massachusetts (6)
New York (6)
North Carolina (4)
Virginia (4)
South Carolina (3)
Colorado (2)
Connecticut (2)
Indiana (2)
Rhode Island (1)
POP Yachts (1)
Search Title Only
Has Picture
Include Sold Listings

Showcase Ads

2001 Hurricane Fun Deck

Carrabelle, FL

2003 S.A.F.E. BOAT DEFENDER

2004 Hewescraft 220

Hillsboro, OR

2005 Bayliner 275

Chicago, IL

2004 Malibu Wakesetter Sunscape 21 LSV

Columbia, SC

2017 Sea Ray 310 SLX

Marblehead, MA

2015 Chaparral 21 Sport H20

Crescent, MO

Create Alert

Please, name this search

Select Interval

Alert Successfully Created

Yachting Monthly

Digital edition

How keel type affects performance

Chris Beeson
December 2, 2016

James Jermain looks at the main keel types, their typical performance and the pros and cons of each

A fin keel and spade rudder configuration gives high pointing but can be sensitive on the helm Credit: Graham Snook/YM

James Jermain has tested hundreds of yachts in his 30 years as Yachting Monthly’s chief boat tester

The performance and handling of a yacht depends on many things, but perhaps the most important single feature is the shape of the hull and the profile of the keel. Over the years hulls have become shallower and keels narrower, but for many types of sailing this progression is not necessarily progress. Of the various shapes that have evolved, each has its own advantages in different circumstances. Here is a run-down of how they may fit your sort of sailing.

FIN KEEL WITH SPADE RUDDER

A low wetted surface area and aerofoil shape means speed and agility

The most common modern option, usually combined with light but beamy hulls with high freeboard.

GENERAL AND TO WINDWARD

Low wetted surface and good aerofoil shape means good speed, high pointing and quick tacking
Light steering
Best designs can slice through heavy seas in reasonable comfort
High volume, light-weight designs can be lively and tiring in heavy weather
Flat sections can cause slamming
Less steady on the helm, requiring more work and concentration
Strong tendency to round-up when hard pressed
Generally require earlier reefing
Can be unstable when hove to
Quick to surf and may even plane
Can broach easily and suddenly
Can be directionally unstable and hard to control in heavy conditions

UNDER POWER

Handling is precise and turns tight and quick
Some handle almost as well astern as ahead
Limited lateral area so susceptible to beam winds at low speeds
An unattended helm can slam over suddenly

FIN KEEL WITH SKEG RUDDER

The skeg running aft protects the rudder and improves tracking under sail and power

Similar to above but with some key differences.

Skeg provides better support for the rudder
Tracking under sail or power is improved
There is less chance of damage
More wetted surface so potentially slower
Objects can get stuck between rudder and skeg
Limited balancing can make helm heavier

The mass of a long keel is often more seakindly and will carry way well.

The traditional option, usually found on pre-1970s designs.

Good tracking
Slow, soft, comfortable motion
Drive powerfully through short seas but can be wet
Carry way through tacks
Resist rounding-up
Heave-to well
High wetted surface area and a poor aerofoil shape, so speed reduced, tacking slow, leeway increased and pointing ability reduced
Long ends can cause hobby-horsing
An unbalanced hull or rig can cause heavy helm
Track well and very resistant to broaching
Very stable in heavy conditions
Reluctant to surf (a mixed blessing)
Carry way well
Track straight
Heavy construction can reduce vibration and noise
Large turning circle ahead
Unpredictable and hard to control astern

LIFTING OR SWING KEEL

A lifting keel enables beaching, but beware of stones jamming the plate

The ultimate shallow-draught option.

A fully retracting keel offers shallowest draught
A well-designed lifting keel can be very efficient and fast
Grounding on anything other than soft mud or sand can damage an unprotected hull
Stub keels offer better protection but are less efficient and prevent level drying out, except in soft mud
Stones and dried mud can jam the lifting plate
Internal keel boxes reduce accommodation space
Directional stability is poor
Early surfing and planing
Control can easily be lost in strong winds
Good performance and handling with keel down
Directional control increasingly poor as the keel is raised

TWIN OR BILGE KEEL

A bilge-keeler will dry out upright on a flat bottom

A popular shoal-draught option in Britain, less so abroad.

Shallower draught
Dry out upright on a flat bottom
Good protection when grounding
Good designs are better to windward than long keels, almost as good as fins
Pointing and speed to windward is reduced, considerably so in older designs
When well heeled, waves can slap under the windward keel
Can topple over if one keel finds a hole or soft ground

Modified water flow over the wing keel foot can give the motion of a longer, heavier boat

Once popular, now largely replaced with various types of bulb.

Reduced draught
Low CoG means good righting moment
Modified water flow over keel foot means greater efficiency and gives the motion of a longer, heavier boat
More likely to pick up lobster pots, etc
Risky drying out
Weed and barnacle growth under wings difficult to remove

Enjoyed reading this?

A subscription to Yachting Monthly magazine costs around 40% less than the cover price .

Print and digital editions are available through Magazines Direct – where you can also find the latest deals .

YM is packed with information to help you get the most from your time on the water.

Take your seamanship to the next level with tips, advice and skills from our experts
Impartial in-depth reviews of the latest yachts and equipment
Cruising guides to help you reach those dream destinations

Unlock the Secrets: Top 10 Sailboat Keels for Smooth Sailing

Set sail on knowledge with our deep-dive into the hidden heroes of the high seas—the keels! Discover which type can steer your next aquatic adventure to smoother waters.

Every component of a sailboat affects the cost, handling, and safety of the vessel. Perhaps none of these components are as overlooked as keels. So, how many types of sailboat keels are there and how do they differ?

The most common types of sailboat keels are bilge, bulb, and fin keels which are beloved for their speed. Full keels offer the most stability and make them best-suited for ocean sailing compared to shoal and daggerboard keels. Lifting, twin, and bilge keels are all popular as well and are known for providing a smooth ride.

Factors such as the size of your sailboat and where you intend to take it to help determine which type of keels you should consider. Some types of sailboat keels, such as full keels are great for ocean sailing whereas shoal keels are ideal for shallow waters. Follow along as we explore the 10 types of sailboat keels and see what the best practical use is for each one.

Sailboat Keel Types

Each of the types of sailboat keel is different in style, application, and ideal use. For example, fin keels are great for racing sailboats whereas shoal keels are better for cruising. You also need to consider how far you plan to go from shore and which type of water you are sailing through .

For example, some keels can easily cut through choppy water without suffering stability. On the other hand, some sailboat keels are only suited for smooth and shallow waters. Let’s take a look at the 10 types of sailboat keels.

Canting keels are among the most practical and impressive types of sailboat keels. They come in a wide variety of sizes that are proportionate to the size of the boat in question. Canting keels are attached to a strut underneath the boat and they are designed to extend as low as possible .

This dynamic keel isn’t fixed, so you can adjust it based on the wind and the direction of your boat. Many boaters look for this in a sailboat because it lets you react accordingly under different weather and water conditions. Ideally, you should be able to adjust a canting keel while onboard so that you can go as fast as possible.

Bilge keels refer to multiple fins that extend from the bottom of a sailboat. Neither of the 2 fins sticks out too far, so you won’t have to worry about damage when you come close to shore or sail through shallow water. They aren’t the fasted type of keel, but they are quite easy to maintain because of their relatively small size and simple design .

Arguably the biggest benefit of bilge keels is that they offer superior roll stability. This provides a smoother ride which is essential if you sail through rough waters or easily get seasick. You will most commonly find sailboats with bilge keys in areas with shallow water around a coastline.

A bilge keel should last for years to come as long as you properly maintain it. Dry your bilge out every few months and clean it so that it continues to work well and doesn’t suffer algae damage.

Boat Design Net

Consider a sailboat with a bulb keel if you value stability and safety . Also known as wing keels, bulb keels are perfect for large sailboats and can help keep them on track. That can be difficult to do with a massive sailboat, especially in inclement weather conditions or in rough water.

A bulb keel can use its weight to balance a large or long sailboat when it shifts from one side to another. As the name suggests, bulb keels are shaped like a standard bulb, and they look almost like teardrops. They are low-maintenance as long as you can dry and clean your bulb keel’s surface every few months if you use it often.

4. Daggerboard

Practical Sailor

Daggerboards are a unique variety of keels that are removable and easy to maintain. They are easy to use for beginners and seasoned sailors alike. However, you should only use a daggerboard keel with a small boat because it may not be strong enough to sway one that is long and heavy .

A sailboat with a daggerboard can sail up to 2 knots faster than other sailboats under the right conditions. Daggerboards make it easy to steady and balance your sailboat because you can easily adjust the boards themselves. With that said, the presence of a daggerboard can add a lot of money to the cost of a sailboat.

They can add up to $15,000 or more to the cost of a boat, especially if you get one with a dual daggerboard which offers more control. Daggerboards are also cumbersome and can reduce some of the storage space on your boat depending on which type of hull you have.

Sailboat Cruising

Your sailboat likely has a fin keel if it was made in the last 10-15 years. Fin keels are commonly praised for being precise and fast which is useful in fresh water and saltwater . A fin sticks out of the bottom of the sailboat in the perfect shape that doesn’t reduce your sailboat’s hydrodynamic nature.

You get more speed with a fin keel than most of the alternatives because they aren’t cumbersome. Their shape is meant to easily cut through the water without any trouble. Fin keels can also easily steady a sailboat as it sways even if the waters are rough or the weather is bad.

They also appeal to beginners because fin keels make it all too easy to steer sailboats of any size . Storage isn’t a problem for sailboats with fin keels because they don’t take up too much internal space that could be used for cargo. You can find fin keels on everything from casual cruisers to professional-grade racing sailboats.

6. Full-Length

Rigging Doctor

Full-length keels are a popular alternative to fin keels, even if they are somewhat slower and less modern. With that said, sailboats with full keels make up for the lack of speed and precision with stability. The stability that a sailboat with a full keel has to offer is unparalleled in the world of marine technology .

That is large because the keel starts at the front and continues all the way through the aft. Unlike some other varieties, full keels are a part of the hull itself. This makes them large and heavy which can limit the speed but also makes it much easier to control your sailboat.

Life of Sailing

Shoal keel sailboats are unique in that they have a limited draft which makes them perfect for drifting . However, you aren’t limited to any particular style or activity with a shoal keel unless you take your boat out far into rough waters. They aren’t as stable as full keel sailboats which put you at a higher risk of capsizing if an emergency occurs.

You wouldn’t necessarily want to take a shoal keel sailboat out for a long-distance trip. They are best suited for fun excursions that don’t take you too far from shore or into choppy waters. Even still, sailboats with shoal keels can easily handle a trip close to shore or even within shallow lagoons.

Sirius-Yachts

Twin keels are a type of bilge keel that has 2 keels and they have recently become popular again. Their rise in popularity is mainly because of their handling and how smooth they are. You can easily make a wide turn with a sailboat equipped with a twin keel and maintain a similar speed .

Another major benefit of sailboats with twin keels is that they can stand when you bring them to shore. This makes it easy to connect your sailboat to a trailer, perform routine maintenance, and transport it. Great performance aside, this is a major selling point of twin keels because it can otherwise be difficult to maintain and transport a sailboat.

Yacht Harbor

Sailboats with quad keels particularly come in handy if you need to make several tight turns on a single trip. Quad keels are designed so that you won’t have to fight to steady your sailboat once you’ve made a turn. Of course, you will need to adjust based on the situation, but the additional keels make it all too easy to navigate tight passages .

10. Lifting

Owen Clarke Design

Lifting keels, or swing keels, are retractable, stable, and easy to use. You can even beach a boat with a lifting keel without worrying about causing damage. They are retractable and your boat can operate well whether your lifting keel is up or down .

You get more variety with a lifting keel than you would get with one that is in a fixed position and unable to move. Speed isn’t necessarily the main appeal of boats with lifting keels, but they are lightweight nonetheless. All that you need to do is raise or lower the keel via a lever attached to ropes or a pulley.

With that said, you need to keep an eye on several key components of your lifting keel so that it stays in good shape. Lifting keels require a system that includes a winch, turning ball, and cable which are all necessary to function. Otherwise, there aren’t any downsides to a lifting keel as long as you keep up with the maintenance.

Best Keel For Ocean Sailing

Full-length keels are the best option for ocean sailing because they are reliable. They don’t offer as much speed as a fin keel, but they are much more reliable. Full keels are the most comfortable option for ocean sailing because of their smooth and easy-to-control nature .

You can support from a full keel throughout the majority of your sailboat’s hull. This is invaluable while ocean sailing because there will always be an element of waves and choppiness. It also doesn’t hurt that you won’t have to worry about your sailboat changing course while ocean sailing.

With that said, some boaters prefer fin keels for ocean sailing because of their speed and maneuverability. The right choice for you comes down to whether or not you want to cruise casually or enjoy a speedy journey at sea. Personally, the stability of a full keel is more appealing than the extra speed of fin keels because you need a stable vessel on the ocean.

Best Sailboat Keel For Fishing

Bilge keels and shoal keels are the best sailboat keels for fishing. They can both handle shallow waters quite well and can easily navigate tight passages. That is often necessary when fishing, especially if you visit small coves and lagoons and need as much control as possible .

Sailboats aren’t always thought of as the best types of boats for fishing, but choosing the right keel can make a huge difference. Bilge and shoal keels both have shallow drafts which give you more control in areas where you’d be likely to stop and catch some fish. A bilge keel or shoal can make the difference between a sailboat that is suitable for fishing and one that is meant for racing and cruising.

Sailboat Keel Material

Sailboat keels are made of several types of materials, but the most common are lead and cast iron . Each of these materials is durable enough to withstand prolonged exposure to water which is unavoidable with sailboat keels. Typically, sailboat keels are made of a combination of several materials in small concentrations.

For example, many sailboat keels feature a combination of cast iron, lead, and concrete infused with iron. The mixture gives the keel stability and protects the metals from quickly corroding from water. Many boaters and enthusiasts are reasonably apprehensive about the presence of lead, but lead isn’t in every keel.

The presence of lead typically only applies to sailboat keels that have a ballast, but not all keels with ballasts even have lead . With that said, you will find lead in many of the most popular types of sailboat keels, such as fin keels. You can typically count on the presence of cast iron, however, because it is superior to other types of iron in terms of durability.

What is an Encapsulated Keel?

Grabau International

An encapsulated keel is a keel that is part of the hull itself. You can encapsulate several different types of keels, especially if you customize a sailboat or yacht. This will come at an extra cost, but many sailors find the money worthwhile given the added stability .

Encapsulated keels have become more common and are now often available as stock parts of new boats. The keel is molded to the hull instead of attached with hardware such as rivets. This is essential to the stability of an encapsulated keel because you won’t have to worry about hardware suffering water damage.

Can You Sail Without a Keel?

You can sail without a keel if you have a dinghy, and that is an affordable alternative to a standard sailboat. They are tiny sailboats that don’t have a ballast or keel and measure under 20 feet long . Dinghies are safe to sail with, but you shouldn’t go out more than 1-2 miles from shore.

Otherwise, you risk losing your course because of the lack of a keel that can help keep your vessel on the right path. The further you take a boat out, the easier it is to stray from your path even with modern navigation technology.

You should never attempt to sail a boat that is over 20 feet long without a keel whether it is damaged or you removed it. This will take away much of the control that you need to safely sail whether your distance is short or long. Your sailboat needs a keel whether it’s a monohull or multi-hull vessel if it’s over 20 feet long .

So, What Are The Types of Sailboat Keels?

The best types of sailboat keels are fin keels, full keels, and bilge keels . They all offer a great mixture of precision and maneuverability, but full keels in particular offer the most stability of them all. Bulb keels are another great option if you want a sailboat keel that is stable and safe.

However, you need to especially keep an eye on bulb keels because they can easily carry scum and algae. Lifting sailboat keels are great because they are retractable so you don’t need to worry about your approach to shore. Full keels are the most well-rounded and best suited for ocean sailing, but fin keels are the fastest and most precise.

Win a $500 Flight!

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime! Enter our Dream Journey Sweepstakes for a chance to win a $500 travel voucher, redeemable with any major US airline. Whether it's sandy beaches, bustling cities, or tranquil mountains, your dream destination is just an email away!*

Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco: Top Eats, Sites, and Local Hacks

Imagine uncovering San Francisco's seaside heartbeat at Fisherman's Wharf—where adventures bob with the tides, flavors beckon, and parking secrets await your discovery. Dive into the ultimate Wharf wanderer's guide.

Beverly Hills Elite: 35 Star-Studded Mansions Revealed

Ever wondered where the stars align and sleep at night? Buckle up, as we take you on an exclusive zip code safari to unveil the plush pads of Beverly Hills' most glittering residents!

2024 Seville Safety Guide: Sun, Siestas & Secure Travels!

Ever dodged a wayward flamenco dancer or a rogue tapa? Fear not in Seville! Let's unravel the mysteries of safety in Spain's city of sun, siestas, and street charm. Stay tuned!

Jet-Setter on a Budget: Unlock Half-Price Student Airfares

Many airlines understand the financial constraints of students and offer special fares to make globetrotting more accessible. In this article, I'll dive into the airlines that provide these coveted student discounts.

Unlock Greek Bliss: Ideal Season Secrets & Fest Frenzy

Discover the best time to visit Greece's whitewashed villages, explore azure seas, immerse in rich history, and delight in Greek cuisine. Plan your dream trip now!

The travel site inspired by travelers and locals alike. Find amazing destinations, unique trip ideas, the best hotels, and most comfortable resorts.

The Best Shallow Draft Liveaboard Sailboat 2024

Looking for the best shallow draft liveaboard sailboat.

If you’re looking for the best shallow draft liveaboard sailboat then look no further.

After four years of living aboard our super shallow draft monohull, we are shallow draft boat connoisseurs and we can’t imagine being happy in anything other than a shallow keeled boat.

There are many different types of sailboats, and the best shallow draft liveaboard sailboat may not be the same for everyone. Some factors you might want to consider when choosing a sailboat include size, type of sailing, comfort, and cost.

One thing is fir sure, when choosing a vessel you will want to take into account the draft of a boat to make sure you can access the waterways you intend on cruising.

In this post, we will take a look at some of the best shallow keel liveaboard sailboats on the market today. So if you are in the market for a new sailboat, keep reading!

The best large shallow draft sailboats.

The best small shallow keel sailboats

Shallow water sailing

The best spot in the anchorage, less chance of grounding, extra moving parts.

How To Find The Perfect Liveaboard Sailboat For You

We’ve got some great suggestions for shallow draft liveaboard sailboats that are 38ft or above. Boats of this size are usually more practical for ocean crossings and have enough living space for a couple who expect to have guests regularly, or for a family.

#1 Kadey Krogen 38

The Kadey Krogen 38 is one of the best large shallow draft sailboats on the market today, offering plenty of space and comfort for all your sailing adventures (and we’re not just saying that because we live on one!)

With a maximum draft of just 3 feet, it can easily go where other boats cannot, making it perfect for exploring shallow waters. We have often entered a busy anchorage, snuck in shallow, and had all the room in the world.

The Kadey Krogen 38s are quite unique. All the ballast is in the tiny keel, and she has two centreboards that help performance. The large centreboard in the middle of the boat helps it point closer to the wind.

After a year of sailing without a functional centreboard we did find our upwind performance improved with the centreboard and tacking and heaving to was easier as well.

The after board helps with weather helm in heavy seas. It does make the steering handle a lot easier and is a great thing to have at your disposal, but we have also been in heavy seas and forgotten to lower it and the boat still tracked fine.

The perfect shallow draft sailboat in the sunset

What we really love about this design is the flexibility. As there is no weight in the boards we aren’t worried about losing them, and therefore losing the keel. The keel is fully encapsulated and going nowhere!

As a liveaboard sailboat, the Kadey Krogen 38s are extremely roomy. They have a wide beam and really make the most of the space. In fact, you could almost say they were designed for liveaboard, as the space is that cleverly laid out.

The cockpit is spacious which is perfect for entertaining. We have regularly seated 8 people in the cockpit and it has never felt like a squeeze. The locker lids are large enough to sleep on and we regularly do in the summer months when it’s stuffy below.

Saying that, we have never felt unsafe in big seas as there is coving all the way around and plenty of handholds and clip-in points.

The interior is slightly different on each different boat, but they all have a separate shower in the head which is super handy, and the cabins have their own sinks. The owner’s bed is a full-sized double so you can use an off-the-shelf mattress, and there is storage for days.

One of the biggest drawbacks of this small keeled liveaboard sailboat is the compromise in steerage astern. She doesn’t do well with Med-mooring!

If you’re looking for a great shallow draft liveaboard sailboat that offers plenty of space and comfort, be sure to check out the Kadey Krogen 38.

Check it out on Sailboat Data

#2 Freedom Cat 40 Centreboard

If you’re looking for a great liveaboard sailboat with a shallow draft that offers plenty of space and comfort, be sure to check out the Freedom Cat 40 Centreboard. With a maximum draft of just 4 feet, this boat has no problem exploring the shallow waters of your favorite cruising grounds.

This boat sails well, especially on a reach, and is easy enough to handle as a couple or even a solo sailor.

Like the Kadey Krogen 38, this sailboat has a large cockpit but the Freedom 40 has a centre cockpit, which many prefer.

The Freedom 40 is a great liveaboard sailboat

Another standout feature of the Freedom Cat 40 is its spacious and well-designed interior. This boat is a great size for a liveaboard couple, with a large double bed aft as well as a v-berth forward.

While it does have some drawbacks–like poor maneuverability in reverse – there’s no doubt that the Freedom Cat 40 Centreboard is one of the best shallow draft liveaboard sailboats on the market today.

So if you’re looking for comfort, space, and flexibility, be sure to check out this amazing liveaboard sailboat!

#3 C&C 40 Centreboard Version

If you’re looking for an amazing shallow draft sailboat to live on that offers plenty of space and comfort, then the C&C 40 Centreboard Version is definitely worth considering.

With a maximum draft of just over 4 feet, this boat has no problem exploring the shallow waters of your favorite cruising grounds.

To maintain the same stability as the deeper keel versions of this sailboat, the centerboard boat carries an additional 885 pounds of ballast, making her noticeably slower in light air.

In tests, she was shown to be about 4 seconds slower per mile than the normal keel version in about 8 knots of wind, but basically identical in speed with 15+ knots of wind. For most cruisers, this won’t be an issue, but if you’re planning on using this sailboat for racing too then you might opt for the standard keel instead.

Another standout feature of this liveaboard sailboat is its spacious interior, designed for long-term living aboard. This boat can easily accommodate a couple, with a large v-berth forward as well as plenty of storage space throughout the interior.

there’s no doubt that the C&C 40 Centreboard Version is an incredibly comfortable and practical boat to sail.

#4 Privilege 435 Catamaran

The Privilege 435 is built for performance and comfort, making it the perfect shallow keel liveaboard sailboat.

Most of these sailboats were built relatively recently, so while you might not be able to bag a bargain, you will find the latest navigation and safety equipment on board.

The fit and finish of these catamarans are excellent. You can expect high-quality materials and smart storage solutions. There are four separate cabins with their own heads, making it a great liveaboard sailboat for a family.

#5 Lagoon 40

✅ Buy your liveaboard guidebook now

If you’re looking for a great shallow draft liveaboard sailboat that’s packed with top-of-the-line features, then the Lagoon 40 is definitely worth considering.

With a maximum draft of 1.35m, this boat offers plenty of space and comfort while being able to explore the shallow waters of your favorite cruising grounds.

One of the biggest benefits of this amazing sailboat is its spacious and well-designed interior. With plenty of room for a couple or even a solo sailor, you’ll love spending long days at sea aboard the Lagoon 40.

One of the biggest downsides of catamarans is usually their upwind performance, but the Lagoon 40 will keep her speed even at a 50-degree apparent wind angle.

So if you’re looking for comfort, space, and flexibility, be sure to check out this amazing liveaboard sailboat today!

#6 Prout Snowgoose 37

Prout catamarans have a great reputation among liveaboard sailors, and the Snowgoose is one of the most popular designs.

Prout no longer exists as a company, as it was bought by Broadblue in the 90s. Broadblue still makes catamarans today, and they have very similar features to the original Prouts, though obviously they are far fancier and have all the benefits of a more modern design!

The Snowgoose catamaran benefits from a shallow draft of 2.08ft, meaning you won’t have any trouble at all in shallow waters. It sails well and is a suitable bluewater sailboat, however, a low bridge deck clearance makes the boat slam in waves, both at anchor and underway.

The best small shallow draft sailboats to live on

As these are still liveaboard sailboats, we haven’t added any under 30ft. If you’re living aboard solo then 30ft is probably the smallest you will want to go before the sailing lifestyle starts to feel a bit too much like camping!

Here are our top picks for small small keel liveaboard sailboats.

#7 Columbia 31

If you’re looking for a compact, high-quality shallow keel sailboat that’s perfect for both recreational sailing and liveaboard cruising, then the Columbia 31 is definitely worth checking out.

With a maximum draft of just over 3 feet, this sailboat will be able to sneak into shallow anchorages with ease. It sails adequately and will be more than good enough for coastal cruising.

With its small size comes some definite compromises – while it may be great for traveling in sheltered waters and coastal areas, the Columbia 31 doesn’t have much in the way of speed or stability when going offshore.

That said, this little sailboat is incredibly well-built and carries all the hallmarks of quality craftsmanship. Its solid fiberglass hull and spacious interior for a boat of this size make the Columbia 31 a great option for both recreational and liveaboard sailing.

So whether you’re looking to sail in shallow water, explore coastal areas, or just spend some time living aboard, the Columbia 31 is definitely worth considering!

#8 Pearson 35

Pearson makes some great sailboats and is mostly well-regarded within the sailing community. The Pearson 35 is no exception and boasts the longest production run of any other Pearson model.

Boasting a shallow draft of just under 4 feet and a surprisingly spacious interior for a boat of this size, the Pearson 35 is an excellent small-sized liveaboard sailboat that won’t disappoint.

Due to its relatively simple construction, however, there are some definite downsides – while you’ll be able to find older models at great prices, they often have several issues that will need to be repaired before setting off on your next sailing adventure.

That said, if you’re looking for a dependable little sailboat that will allow you to explore shallow waters and coastal areas, the Pearson 35 is definitely worth considering.

#9 Gemini 105Mc (34ft)

The Gemini 105Mc is still in production in the US, which speaks to its popularity.

If you’re looking for a small keel sailboat on the smaller side, that still has plenty of space for living aboard, then this might be the perfect compromise. Many of these small catamarans have completed ocean passages so you won’t be limited on cruising grounds.

It has two double cabins, good headroom throughout, and nice finishes too.

A significant negative to this boat is the bridge deck clearance which isn’t amazing so you may experience some slamming. But that aside, this is a great small draft sailboat for anyone wanting to live aboard.

#10 Prout Event 34

These multihulls are quite hard to find, but if you like the Snowgoose but are on a tighter budget then they might be just what you’re looking for. These shallow draft catamarans share lots of features with the popular Snowgoose designs, just on a smaller scale.

There are three cabins, one head, a salon, and a galley, only they are rather squeezed in compared to the larger model.

The Prout Event 34 sails well and has crossed oceans, though it is also known for its slamming so if this is something that bothers you then you might want to think again before buying this liveaboard sailboat.

These shallow draft catamarans have an excellent reputation among cruisers because of their solid build and use of decent materials.

The boat has three cabins, a galley, saloon, and a head, so it’s perfect for slightly larger crews, though it’s obviously on the smaller side compared to some of the large shallow draft liveaboard boats on this list.

This catamaran sails well and people have crossed oceans in them, though they are probably better suited to coastal cruising

The bridge deck clearance is good on this catamaran so you shouldn’t experience too much slamming.

Why buy a narrow keel sailboat to live on?

There are many reasons why someone might choose to buy a sailboat with a small draft as a liveaboard.

Perhaps you don’t want the hassle of anchoring in deep water or dealing with the challenges that come with mooring, or maybe you simply enjoy being able to explore shallow coastal areas where other boats can’t go.

We’ll explore some of the reasons in more depth below.

Shallow water sailing refers to cruising in coastal areas where other boats cannot go.

The shallow draft of a sailboat means that you can easily explore coves, anchorages, and bays off the beaten track. Even if it’s just for an afternoon, there is something really special about being able to truly get away from it all by sailing away from the crowds in a secluded cove or anchorage.

One of the great things about living aboard a sailboat is that you have the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want. You can easily move on if you find somewhere that better suits your needs, or stay put and enjoy all the great amenities at your favorite anchorage.

While many people love big marinas with all their facilities and good ground tackle, many others prefer the peace and quiet of a secluded anchorage. If you’re one of those people who simply love finding the best spot in an anchorage then living aboard a shallow draft sailboat is perfect for you.

You will be able to sneak into bays that no one else can reach, or anchor in shallow waters of busier anchorages when there is seemingly no space.

a shallow draft sailboat anchored between rocks

On a sailboat with a lifting centreboard you have lowered odds of damaging your boat.

In fact, we have even heard of experienced sailors using their centreboard as a worst-case depth sounder, allowing you to risk sneaking into unchartered shallow waters without any significant risk of damaging your boat.

If you hit rock bottom (literally) then at best your centreboard will be knocked higher into its slot, and at worst you might damage the centreboard a little, but either way, your keel will remain unharmed!

The disadvantages of a shallow draft liveaboard sailboat

the sunset with a sailboat in the foreground

As always, alongside the advantages of shallow draft sailboats are some disadvantages to make you question your decision.

For us, after four years of living aboard, we would say the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, but it is so depending on personal opinion and taste.

Here are the main disadvantages of shallow keel liveaboard sailboats.

One reason that many people choose not to live aboard a sailboat with a small draft is the reduced stability.

Compared to a deeper draft boat, your centre of gravity is lower on a shallow draft sailboat which can be worrying when you are in open water, particularly if there are swells or high winds.

On our Kadey Krogen 38 we haven’t found this to be a problem. She handles brilliantly in big seas and we have always felt very safe and stable. In swelly anchorages, she doesn’t fair so well and is usually one of the more rolly boats in the anchorages (though interestingly quite often not the worst!)

Another disadvantage of a shallow draft sailboat is that they are not always easy to steer, especially when going astern.

Our sailboats prop walk is quite impressive! Getting into mooring slips astern is very tricky indeed. This is a problem on a lot of deep, full-keeled sailboats so we aren’t alone in our troubles! One way around this is to just enter mooring slips forward and drop an anchor astern.

A sailboat with a centreboard is not as simple to maintain as one without.

In the four years that we’ve owned our boat, we have replaced both her swing keel bearing and the cable that connects it to the winch on deck. For some people, this might be more than they are willing or able to deal with, but for us, it has been simple to do and is part of the reason we love our boat.

How To Find The Perfect Liveaboard Sailboat With A Shallow Draft

If you’re looking to buy a shallow keel sailboat then you’ll need to take a few things into consideration.

Budget is key for most people when buying a boat to live in. You will need to compromise between size, age of the boat, and budget. Smaller, older monohulls tend to be cheaper than larger, newer multihulls.

One of the most convenient ways to decide where to search for sailboats is to look in the location you will be cruising in. This is easy enough if your cruising grounds are popular and large, like in Europe or the USA.

You will find it much harder to find the right boat for you if you’re only prepared to buy in a very specific place or on cruising grounds that are tricky to reach, like remote islands. That being said, if you can find the right boat for you in one of these places then you are more likely to get a great deal.

Size of Sailboat

As mentioned earlier, the bigger the boat the more you are likely to pay. That being said, if you’re looking for a liveaboard sailboat then the last thing you want to do is buy a boat that is far too small to meet your requirements.

Consider how many people will be living aboard full time, or almost full time. For a couple, a 38ft boat is usually a comfortable size, though there are couples living on 34-36ft boats (and they’re still together!)

For a family, or if you plan on having crew on for longer periods of time, you might consider getting a larger monohull or a catamaran so that everyone can have their own private space on board.

Larger boats tend to be more comfortable at sea too, so make sure you go for something a little bigger if you plan on crossing oceans.

Conclusion: The Best Shallow Draft Liveaboard Sailboats

Ultimately, finding the perfect boat will depend on what is important to you and what kind of experience you want to have while living on board.

The best shallow keel liveaboard sailboat is one that meets all of your needs and requirements. Whether you are looking for something large or small, budget-friendly or luxurious, there is sure to be a boat out there that will fit the bill.

So do your research, talk to other boaters in your area, and make sure you find the perfect vessel for your unique needs. Happy hunting!

Catamaran Vs. Monohull: Which Is Better?

Sailing The Peloponnese In Greece

What Is A Catamaran? All Your Questions Answered 2024

What Is Capsize Ratio And How Is It Calculated?

How Long Does It Take To Sail Across The Atlantic 2024?

Sailing Greece In October: Why You Should Go

Search Search Hi! We’re Emily, Adam and Tiny Cat, liveaboard sailors travelling the world on our 38ft sailboat and writing about it as we go. We hope we can inspire you to live the life you’ve always dreamed, whether that’s exploring the world or living a more simple way of life in a tiny home. Find out more. Patreon
Privacy Policy

Forums New posts Unanswered threads Register Top Posts Email
What's new New posts New Posts (legacy) Latest activity New media
Media New media New comments
Boat Info Downloads Weekly Quiz Topic FAQ 10000boatnames.com
Classifieds Sell Your Boat Used Gear for Sale
Parts General Marine Parts Hunter Beneteau Catalina MacGregor Oday
Help Terms of Use Monday Mail Subscribe Monday Mail Unsubscribe

Deep Keel vs Shoal Keel

Thread starter keithdeller
Start date Dec 4, 2014
Beneteau Owner Forums
Ask A Beneteau Owner

keithdeller

Is there a noticeable difference in performance between a standard Deep k Keel vs a Shoal Keel. I am looking at several Beneteau First 310 to purchase primarily for higher performance cruising, and not solely for racing. Most listed 310s have the Shoal Keel option, with only a couple with the Deep Keel. One First 310 I am interested has the Tall rig, but with the Shoal Keel. Will there be a sacrifice in performance with this arrangement? Thank you, Keithdeller

Yes. There are no shoal keel racing boats. The keel is a huge part of what makes the boat perform and what makes it point. A shoal keel boat is all about cruising convenience.

Thank you markwbird, Some sellers are stating that the shoal winged keel is as effective as deep keel. They say that the wing increases the counter force to be equivalent to a deep keel..?.. I am doubtful.

keithdeller said: Thank you markwbird, Some sellers are stating that the shoal winged keel is as effective as deep keel. They say that the wing increases the counter force to be equivalent to a deep keel..?.. I am doubtful. Click to expand

The purpose of the winged keel was to keep the underwater foil engaged in the flow and the boat on it's feet (upright) so that the sails can lift the boat to windward. The winged keel is a foil aspect multiplier. Everything is a compromise, including the value of your desire to boat into shoal water.

What about shoal keels that have a bulb at the keel base. Is it used only for additional leverage?

keithdeller said: What about shoal keels that have a bulb at the keel base. Is it used only for additional leverage? Click to expand

I bit like the base of a golf wedge iron...which 'bounces' when sticking the ground. So, there should not be a significant difference in performance when sailing upwind, between a bulb shoal keel vs a deeper fin keel...

I have a 310 WITH THE SHORT KEEL - that's my only complaint with the boat. Doesn't point worth a darn. I got the short keel because we have depth issues here - droughts drop the lake levels. My preference was to have the deep keel. If water depth isn't an issue and you want to be able to point well get the deep keeled boat.

keithdeller said: ..So, there should not be a significant difference in performance when sailing upwind, between a bulb shoal keel vs a deeper fin keel... Click to expand

The only fallacy in all this discussion is how good a sailor is skippering that wing keel! It's kinda like the guy who thought you didn't really need a boom vang to sail well. Chief

Ah, topics near and dear to my heart. First, a deep keel will give better performace than a shoal or wing keel, full stop. Better windward because it generates more lift. And better on all points of sail because the deep keel boat will be lighter than a more shoal boat, always. Deep, high aspect keels are the lift champs. Like low speed airplane wings. Long and narrow. Think U2 spy plane. Ever see one of those take off? BUT, given the choice, I might take a tall rig 310 over a deep keel 310. Bepends on local weather. The big rig will always give more horsepower. The keel helps mostly going pure upwind. And the standard 310 is slightly underpowered. We race against a regular 310 and in light airs we simply crush it, by way more that the 50 seconds difference in handicap. Minutes difference. Deep vs shoal matters most on direct boat on boat (One Design) racing. No way a shoal 36.7 sails with us. We spit them out the back. But in a handicap race, a shoal boat sailing it's own race will do OK. Now saying all that, I see there is a deep keel 310 with a tall rig and a TILLER on yachtworld. That's pure sex with sails. I'll send you a case of beer of you buy that one!

JohnShannon

phrf ratings will give you a clue as to the performance impact of various options like tall rig or shoal keel lower number = faster

JohnShannon said: phrf ratings will give you a clue as to the performance impact of various options like tall rig or shoal keel lower number = faster Click to expand

The PHRF certainly clarifies performance rating of different configurations. Another thought... Can the First 310 shoal bulb keel be modified to a wing configuration?

Jackdaw: It is interesting you mentioned a tall rig, wing keel as I have one. I have no interest in racing or would not have bought this boat but am aware that it can do 7 knots and that did impress me. Chief

Chief RA, How does the First 310 tall rig / wing keel point into wind?

Keith, I figure that the 310s shoal bulb is equal or better than a wing on the same draft. I've owned wing keels; they really are another way to get ballast low without the draft. Just like a bulb. They offer nothing in terms of extra lift. That's why nobody makes them any more. But they DO catch stuff! ;^) Chief, my thinking is that any boat can make 7 knots on a reach, given a reasonable enough breeze. The measure of how 'quick' a boat is is measured by its ability to make progress to windward (VMG) in a wide range of breeze. Some boats are a lot better at that. Your boat rates PHRF 222, not bad for a 25 foot mostly-cruiser. A month or so ago I was bored and wrote a post on this stuff. http://forums.sbo.sailboatowners.com/showthread.php?p=1151452

Thanks Jackdaw, Looking at the PHRF ratings, the Beneteau 310 has a median rating of 138, whereas the 310 SD is 159, (a difference of +21). The 310 Tall is 132, so one would factor +21 for the 310 Tall w/ SD to be approx 153. Correct? Apologies for harping on this subject, as I need to make a decision whether to purchase a First 310 with deep fin keel, or a First 310 tall with Shoal bulb keel. As I will be sailing on the west coast, either keel will work. My sailing will be mixed, with cruising and racing. When cruising, I enjoy tweaking for higher performance... Which one would you choose?

keithdeller said: Thanks Jackdaw, Looking at the PHRF ratings, the Beneteau 310 has a median rating of 138, whereas the 310 SD is 159, (a difference of +21). The 310 Tall is 132, so one would factor +21 for the 310 Tall w/ SD to be approx 153. Correct? Apologies for harping on this subject, as I need to make a decision whether to purchase a First 310 with deep fin keel, or a First 310 tall with Shoal bulb keel. As I will be sailing on the west coast, either keel will work. My sailing will be mixed, with cruising and racing. When cruising, I enjoy tweaking for higher performance... Which one would you choose? Click to expand

This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies. Accept Learn more…

New Sailboats
Sailboats 21-30ft
Sailboats 31-35ft
Sailboats 36-40ft
Sailboats Over 40ft
Sailboats Under 21feet
used_sailboats
Apps and Computer Programs
Communications
Fishfinders
Handheld Electronics
Plotters MFDS Rradar
Wind, Speed & Depth Instruments
Anchoring Mooring
Running Rigging
Sails Canvas
Standing Rigging
Diesel Engines
Off Grid Energy
Cleaning Waxing
DIY Projects
Repair, Tools & Materials
Spare Parts
Tools & Gadgets
Cabin Comfort
Ventilation
Footwear Apparel
Foul Weather Gear
Mailport & PS Advisor
Inside Practical Sailor Blog
Activate My Web Access
Reset Password
Pay My Bill
Customer Service

Free Newsletter
Give a Gift

How to Sell Your Boat

Cal 2-46: A Venerable Lapworth Design Brought Up to Date

Rhumb Lines: Show Highlights from Annapolis

Open Transom Pros and Cons

Leaping Into Lithium

The Importance of Sea State in Weather Planning

Do-it-yourself Electrical System Survey and Inspection

Install a Standalone Sounder Without Drilling

Rethinking MOB Prevention

Top-notch Wind Indicators

The Everlasting Multihull Trampoline

In Search of the Snag-free Clew

A lithium conversion requires a willing owner and a capable craft. Enter the Prestige 345 catamaran Confianza.

What’s Involved in Setting Up a Lithium Battery System?

Reducing Engine Room Noise

Breaking Point: What Can Go Wrong With Your Yanmar?

Mildew-resistant Caulks for Boats

Can We Trust Plastic Boat Parts?

Repairing Molded Plastics

Mailport: Marine plywood, fuel additives, through bolt options, winch handle holders

The Day Sailor’s First-Aid Kit

Choosing and Securing Seat Cushions

Cockpit Drains on Race Boats

Rhumb Lines: Livin’ the Wharf Rat Life

Resurrecting Slippery Boat Shoes

Shoe Goo’s Gift to Sailors

Tricks and Tips to Forming Do-it-yourself Rigging Terminals

Marine Toilet Maintenance Tips

Learning to Live with Plastic Boat Bits

The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Clear Plastic

Sailboat Reviews

O’Day 22

A nice cockpit, a touch of privacy and good looks, but performance is not a strong suit here..

O’Day Boats was around a long time by fiberglass boatbuilding standards—about 30 years. Originally O’Day was a leader in small boats typified by the Fox-designed Day Sailer.

By the early ’70s O’Day had moved into the trailerable cruising boat market. In the meantime the firm was acquired by Bangor Punta along with such other major boat builders as Cal and Ranger Yachts. In later years, with the decline in volume sales of small boats, O’Day had problems. To help alleviate these, O’Day produced larger and larger boats, first a 30, then a 32, and more recently a 34 and a 37.

All the cruising size boats in the O’Day line were designed by C. Raymond Hunt Associates in one of the most enduring designer-builder relationships in the industry (rivaled, in fact, only by Bill Lapworth’s tenure as Cal’s house designer and Bruce King’s with Ericson Yachts). The result of the relationship is a family resemblance in the O’Day line that is more than superficial. What proves popular in one boat is apt to be adopted in subsequent kin. Therefore, any study of the O’Day offerings over the years reflects a process of evolution.

When it was introduced, the O’Day 22 was touted as a competitive contender on the race course, a contrasting companion to the rather hazy 23-footer which it would soon phase out. The 22 had a masthead rig, a stylish rake to the transom, shallow (23″) draft with a short stub keel and no centerboard, light weight (advertised 1,800 lbs) for trailering, and a price under $3,000.

Later, the 22 acquired a fractional rig, a centerboard, 300 advertised pounds and a price tag almost $7,000 higher.

Construction

O’Day once set a standard for small boat construction and styling. That was before on and off labor problems in its plant, management changes under Bangor Punta, the decline in sales of boats in its size range, and increasingly fierce competition for buyers who became more cost than quality conscious. The later O’Day 22s were, frankly, a mixed bag of quality and shabbiness.

The spars, rigging, and hardware are as high quality as we have seen in comparable boats. Our only reservation is with the stamped stainless steel hinged mast step that we know from personal experience requires a steady hand and boat when raising or lowering a mast.

We also think that a mainsheet which terminates in a cam action cleat 16″ up the single backstay may be economical and simple but it is neither efficient nor handy, again a reflection of scrimping to keep price low.

The quality of O’Day fiberglass laminates was historically high but there have been reader reports of gelcoat voids and there is consistent evidence of print through (pattern of laminate in gelcoat). Exterior styling and proportions are superb, an opinion iterated by owners who have returned the PS Boat Owners’ Questionnaires. The O’Day 22, despite her age, is still not outdated.

On a boat of this size and price, a minimum of exterior trim is understandable. What is less understandable is the poor quality of the interior finish and decor. Belowdecks the O’Day 22 epitomizes the pejorative label Clorox bottle , used to describe fiberglass boats. Sloppily fitted bits of teak trim are matched against teak-printed Formica, at best a tacky combination. Cabinetry, such as there is, is flimsy, and in general the whole impression is of lackluster attention to details.

Performance

Without a centerboard the O’Day 22 simply did not have the performance to go with her racy image. Even with the centerboard she is hardly a ball of fire under sail. She does not point well; tacking through 100 degrees is not uncommon and she is tender, with a disconcerting desire to round up when a puff hits. In light air, with her 3/4 fore triangle and working jib she is under-canvassed and sluggish. In such conditions a genoa with substantial overlap is essential.

Since changing jibs is at best a dicey exercise on a 22 footer, the first step in reducing sail is to reef the mainsail. Jiffy reefing is standard and owners of the O’Day should have a system in good working order and know how to use it. Owners of the boat in waters where squalls are a threat may also want to consider roller furling for the larger jib, trading off the loss of performance and added cost for such a rig for the convenience and, in the case of this boat, the safety.

The O’Day is most hurt in light air downwind and most owners will want either an 8′-or-so whisker pole for winging the jib, or a spinnaker. It is a fun boat on which to learn spinnaker handling. With her fractional rig the spinnaker is relatively small and yet the boat is big enough to provide a foredeck platform for setting the sail.

The trouble is that the O’Day 22 scrimps on the hardware needed for ease of handling with or without a spinnaker. The two #10 Barient sheet winches are, in our opinion, inadequate for anything larger than a working jib and we suggest replacing them with optional #16s. Similarly, the working jib sheets lead to fixed blocks whereas lengths of track with adjustable blocks (fitted to some boats as an option) are far better for optimizing sail trim.

The O’Day did not come with halyard winches as standard. It is a large boat for setting and reefing sails with hand tension alone. Most owners will want at least one small winch (#10) on the cabin roof, with the jib and main halyards led aft through jam cleats or stoppers to the winch.

The fairing of the O’Day 22 underwater is better than average, helped by the fact that the lead ballast is encapsulated in the fiberglass hull molding. The centerboard will, however, be difficult to maintain.

Like many other boats of her size on the market, the O’Day 22 is basically a daysailer with incidental overnight accommodations, notwithstanding that her builder (or its ad agency) made much of its questionable comfort, privacy, and space.

The cockpit of the O’Day is almost perfect: a spacious 6-1/2′ long, the seats are spaced to allow bracing of feet on the one opposite, and the coaming provides a feeling of security and serves as a comfortable arm rest. It is also self-bailing although the low sill at the companionway means that the lower hatch board must be in place to prevent water going below in the event of a knockdown.

Seat locker space is excellent for a boat of this size with quarterberth below and we like the separate sealed well for the outboard remote gas tank (but not the fact that the hose can be pinched in use).

O’Day literature boasts berths for two couples in “absolute privacy.” Privacy in a 22 footer has to be one of the more relative features. A sliding door encloses the forward cabin and another, the head.

The layout of the O’Day 22 is a noteworthy example of the tradeoff between an enclosed head and berth space. It does indeed have a head area that can be enclosed, a rare feature indeed on a boat of this size. With a conventional marine toilet and throughhull discharge where permitted, this would be a most serviceable facility.

The tradeoff is a pair of terrible vee berths forward. Coming to a point at the forward end, there is simply not enough room for two adults on even the most intimate terms. They are thus suitable only for a pair of small children who do not suffer from sibling rivalry.

By contrast the two settee berths in the main cabin are a bit narrow but a fit place for two adults to sleep. In contrast to the dinette layout of other boats, we think the more traditional layout of the O’Day would be the choice for most owners, especially those cruising with children. However, the settees are not comfortable to sit on, lacking as they do backrests.

The initial version of the O’Day had the then fashionable dinette arrangement but this was quickly replaced by a pair of opposing settees. We doubt if many owners would bother setting up the portable cabin table between the berths, as it prevents the fore and aft passage through the cabin.

The galley with its small sink and space for a twoburner stove is rudimentary but adequate for a boat of this size, Inadequate is the bin/hanging locker opposite the head. Its usefulness escapes us. Enclosed, it could have been better used space. But then the O’Day 22 desperately needs stowage space.

Conclusions

At a minimum trailering weight of 2,200 lbs. (more realistically 2,500 plus the trailer), the O’Day 22 is above the maximum for trailering without a heavy car and special gear.

If she isn’t going to be trailered and launched off a ramp, the 2′ minimum draft is an unwarranted sacrifice of performance and stability. We would look for a fin keel boat unless shoal draft is the highest priority.

On the other hand, with some additional sails and hardware the O’Day 22 should appeal to the sailor who wants a minimum size (and therefore price) boat primarily for daysailing and occasional weekend cruising (maximum one couple plus two young children).

Clearly the O’Day 22 is a minimum boat built tightly to a price. She is attractively styled. As she is apt to be a first boat, resale is important. O’Day boats have enjoyed good value on the used boat market. For about $6,000 for a ten-year-old model, you get a sleek looking small boat with a good cockpit, a modicum of privacy and two good berths. You also get a schlocky decor and a slow boat.

Latest Videos

Catalina 380: What You Should Know | Boat Review

Privacy Policy
Do Not Sell My Personal Information
Online Account Activation
Privacy Manager

13 Popular Full Keel Sailboats Worth Considering

Full keel sailboats are very stable and durable - they are great for cruising long distances. But there are disadvantages too. Let's look at what models to consider, and why.

Here are 13 good full keel sailboats that are worth considering:

Nicholson 32

Island packet 380, folkboat 25, cape dory 36, vancouver 32, tradewind 33, endurance 50, westsail 32, hans christian 52.

First of all let's have a look at why you should even be preferring full keel sailboats to a more traditional, widespread classical fin keel design.

Full Keel Advantages

As with everything, there are plenty of pros and cons on each side. Full keels generally provide better handling if the weather gets tricky, they track better, provide more stability downwind, and generally stabilize the boat movements better.

Furthermore, they are way more robust, thus less prone to damage. Running ashore isn't as big of a deal as it is with a fin keel and your rudder and propeller will be more protected with the mass of the keel in front of them.

Full Keel Disadvantages

With more mass and drag comes less speed. Plus the large surface area underwater holding the direction will result in a wider turning radius, which might be annoying in smaller spaces.

Fin Keel vs Full Keel: Pros and Cons & When to Choose Which

Fin keel advantages.

The largest advantage of fin keels is their speed. They also provide better maneuvering and a better turning radius.

Fin Keel Disadvantages

It is inevitably more prone to damage though, wear and tear will be a way bigger issue than a full keel. They won't have your back when a gust comes since the water-resistance to the side will be smaller.

It seems then that for serious longer passages, liveaboards, and long-term sailing, full keels are better. As long as you don't care for speed as much, but are concerned about the boat having your back, this is the answer. So let's now look at the superstars of the full keel universe.

The very prototype of a long-distance tough cruiser. It has been with us since 1963 and happens to be among the first fiberglass boat models produced on a mass scale. Nicholson 32 went out of production in 1981 and it was a model approved for the 2018 Golden Globe Race, proving that even older Nicholsons are still standing strong due to their toughness and ease of repair.

They were supposedly as durable as if made out of steel. Though I'll leave up to you whether you want to see that as a marketing claim or reality, such a statement can not be made without some base.

Plus the newer models have a lot of interior space, are manageable for solo sailing, and provide a sturdy ride to take one around the world.

The story here is similar to the above Nicholson - meaning that we are looking at one long-lasting high-quality cruiser. Not just because of this specific model's build - Island Packet in general was always known for this. And it is among the very few companies that, in the modern era, keep making full keel boats.

In other words, you don't see many shipyards focusing on full keels these days, so if you want one and you would rather go with a new boat, Island Packet will be one of the stops you will very probably make when doing your research.

If you are looking for reliable cruisers, you will like this one, since cruising is what it was built for, even if it meant sacrificing some performance aspects. It has a wide beam, a lot of interior space, all of the amenities a comfy cruiser should have, such as a big refrigerator with a freezer, as well as a fully equipped kitchen. The long keel here serves as a comfort helper, since, as mentioned before, it adds to the stability and reduces motion.

Not to sound repetitive, but the word 'reliability' has to be mentioned again. It seems that boat builders who choose the full keel design have something in common.

But since this particular boat was born during the Second World War and has been going strong to this very day, what other words to describe it? It has the Nordic blood in its veins since it was thought into existence by the Scandinavian Yacht Racing Union and since it prefers just about everything over comfort.

The boat is very stable, not just because of its full keel, but also because of its insane 55% ballast ratio. For those who haven't come across this before, the ballast ratio is the ratio of the ballast weight relative to the boat weight. So for instance the nearly 9 tonne Bavaria 40 with its almost 3 tonne ballast has a ballast ratio around 30 percent.

Thus you can imagine that a boat that 'wastes' more than half of its weight on ballast is serious about rigidity. These are performance racer numbers. But of course, if you are designing a boat that has to withstand the Scandinavian storms, you don't have a choice than to go overboard with specs. So if this toughness is what you seek, look no further.

...although as far as I know, all Cape Dory boats have full keels, regardless of their length. Their 36-foot model is just their most popular one. Cape Dories are known for their sturdiness, ability to cross the oceans because of their stability, and relative ease of handling.

They were engineered by Carl Alberg, who was inspired by the Scandinavian Folkboat, where reliability is worth more than comfort, or the interior space. This boat rocks a heavy rig for hardcore traveling, but its 1.5-meter draft makes it ideal for coastal cruising as well.

What's quite interesting about this particular model is that during its lifespan it went through very few changes. Boats usually evolve, sailors' feedback is taken into consideration for upgrades, but Cape Dory 36 remained relatively unchanged inside or out. This is a big compliment, since the brand started out in 1963, stopped production in 1991, and sold its blueprints so that they could be built further. Talk about longevity.

Let's progress in technology! Just because a long keel is an old-fashioned or more traditional approach, it doesn't mean it remains monolithic in its ideology. There were innovations in the concept, such as cutaways in the keel, to reduce the biggest drawback of this design, the drag.

So it only makes sense that Vancouver, a company that had distinctiveness and innovation in its mission and vision, would take part in this. Their 32-foot model that begun its lifespan in the early eighties, had a deeply cutaway forefoot, plus a rudder that was wider the deeper it was underwater, meaning its widest point was at its lowest point. This was to increase efficiency, and rudder response.

Technicalities aside, this boat was very well made, no corners cut, no expenses spared. This resulted in quite pricey vessels, out of reach of many, but much time has passed since, so today it can be yours for around 40 000 USD and up. And since the build quality was so high back then, you can still enjoy a proper boat, usually at a higher quality than boats equal its age.

The great thing about Australian sailboat makers is that they design their boats for long passages. How else would they get off of the continent? Freya 39 is a good example of this since it has not only circled the globe many times but also won the Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race three times consecutively. And that's a famously hard race.

The boat is built like a tank, with thicker fiberglass walls than you would find in its rivals. Despite that, its owners claim to have crossed over two hundred miles per day on it, a figure that is well known when it comes to this model. Which sounds plausible with its 7.8 kts of hull speed.

Its construction makes her one stable boat since it has been noted that during races, it was able to carry a spinnaker longer than its competitors, well into the 30 knots of wind speed.

The only drawback here is that if you fancy it, since it is so highly valued, and in demand, it will be tricky to find one to buy. And once you do, prepare to pay around 60 000 - 90 000 USD for it.

This one comes with a story attached to it. Once upon a time, a naval engineer Nick attempted to sail around the world. Halfway through, his boat gave up, which meant a lot of trouble for Nick, but he exited this disaster with a pretty precise idea for what his next project would be. He set on to design a boat that would be so sturdy that his sailing misfortune would never repeat.

Out of this incident paired with a smart brain, Wylo 2 was born. To make sure his design stands, after putting this boat on the water, he proceeded to live on it, while circling the globe a few times.

Others, seeing this success, bought his designs and they became quite widespread. As you might have guessed, this boat has a lot of space for living, for storing equipment and provisions, so it is comfy to live on, not only for your body but because of its sturdiness, for your mind too. These designs have accomplished some astonishing feats in all corners of the world, so if you put your trust in this design, you won't be making a mistake.

If I said this boat is sturdy and ready for just about any destination, I'd really be repeating myself now. So while that's true, let's talk about what's special about Tradewinds 33.

It has a rather small cockpit, so on-deck dinners while watching the sunset with the whole crew might be a bit improvised, but the space saved is used for an impressively spacious interior as well as a nearly flat deck. So moving about is a pleasure.

For liveaboards, this is a good idea, since storage space will be plentiful. Plus it's an elegant looking boat, with a forestaysail as a default setup. So rock on.

Time for a larger boat. So that if you want something that won't lack anything you might wish for, including space, I have something for you too. All Endurances are full keels, so if you fancy a smaller model, there is a way.

Even though it is relatively new, (you will find models from around 1995) it will make you feel like a medieval pirate, with its old-school helm, wooden interior, and a spacious aft cabin that has large windows facing back!

It is a proper bluewater cruiser, built in South Africa based on a famous Peter Ibold's Endurance blueprint. It sleeps a whole family, so if a circumnavigation with a few friends is what you seek, this is one for you.

If you are up for some single-handed sailing, pause here for a bit. Small sailboats are usually nimble, on the top of it, this one is also quite sturdy and stable, as full keels are.

You won't find much space below the deck, so don't expect to have a party of more than around two people, but at least it's a good looking interior, with charming round windows and many of the usual amenities.

They say that Mason sailboats are premium quality for a non-premium price. I wonder whether them being built in Taiwan has something to do with it.

Here is a quote by an owner of a 1986 model that says it all: "I am absolutely captivated by the boat and am not objective at all in my feelings toward her. The general construction is of the highest standard. Like an Irish hunter, she is a workhorse and a lady-maybe not quite as fast around six furlongs as a racehorse, but for the long pull, through timber, brush, and over walls, she is really something."

Now although this owner admits subjectivity, this boat indeed was built with quality in mind. Sturdiness too - not only is its fiberglass hull properly solid, but it also features longitudinal stringers to add further rigidity.

There is a lot of brightwork, which might sound nice at first glance, but since it requires quite a lot of maintenance, some owners even said they could do with less wood if it meant less upkeep.

All in all though, when it comes to getting a lot of boat for not a lot of money, this is it.

Does it make sense to even praise how heavy and sturdy this boat is built? Probably not at this point. Just know it ticks all the boxes. It is made of 12 layered fiberglass for Pete's sake.

The design was based on ideas of the Norwegian engineer Colin Archer, who made his boats such that they could withstand the northern seas. Pair that with the fact that the interior here is surprisingly spacious with 6 ft 2 in of headroom and you've got yourself one comfortable circumnavigator.

The issue stemming from the heavy build and a full keel, which is a slower pace, applies here more than usual though. This boat is absolutely reliable, but don't expect winning speed races.

Sadly, Westsail 32 was in production only for some 9 years. Sales were booming, they made over 800 boats, but bad business practices and cash flow issues resulted in its demise.

Not the author, the boat. If beauty and elegance are what you are after, this one will catch your eye. Just as was the case with Mason, these boats were produced in Taiwan. But since the goal of the engineers was to create the 'ultimate cruising sailboat' and they spared no expense, expect to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars for these boats, even though decades old.

The gorgeous classical design paired with the high build quality makes these exclusive pieces of work, plus quite a modern one since they ceased production in the 90s. So if you don't mind the higher price mark and are looking for something relatively new, that will, thanks to the build quality, last you for many years to come, this might be your choice.

Full keel sailboats are sturdy. Not only is that because of the full keel which itself provides a lot of structural integrity. But also because the choice of putting the full keel in means you are building something that prefers ruggedness and reliability over anything else. So it is logical that the rest of the boat will be built in the same fashion.

So if you don't mind sacrificing the few knots of extra speed, if you don't mind the smaller pool to choose from, if you want a boat that will have your back in pretty much any situation and place you will choose to go to, if you want to sail the Scandinavian design, go for it.

Arthur Rushlow

What a great page. Both my wife and I sailed Faulk Boats out of Canada prior to our moving to Florida. Once we arrived in Florida we had a Soveral 26 built we raced for three years prior to my returning to College and now 5 degrees later I am an Anglican Bishop with no boat.

You may also like, 5 surprising advantages of a full keel sailboat.

Modern keel designs favor fin keels, with the high-performance boats using bulbs with narrow chord sections and deep drafts. Very few full keel designs are being …

Diagram of full keel and fin keel sailboat