Novice question

tcastrosantos · #1 (**permalink**) 11-23-2010

I am looking into getting a small-ish boat in the 26-ft range (the Chrysler C-26 has come to my attention) and am wondering what folkls might suggest for a boat that must sit on tidal flats. Specifically, are swing keels ever used in this way, or is it too much torque on the keel and a recipe for disaster?

jackdale · #2 (**permalink**) 11-23-2010

You should probably look at a bilge keel. There are some in the size range in which you are interested.

tcastrosantos · #3 (**permalink**) 11-23-2010

Thanks Jackdale--

I've been thinking along those lines as well. Any suggestions as to make?

sailingdog · #4 (**permalink**) 11-23-2010

IIRC, that's actually a TWIN KEEL, not a bilge keel. Westerly, Tylercraft and a few others made them. Most are relatively small boat though.

jackdale · #5 (**permalink**) 11-23-2010

I have read good things about the Golden Hind 26. It is a British design, but there is at least one in North America. Gary Geddes, author of Sailing Home, has (had) one.

GRP yacht, Golden Hind 26 ft Golden Hind, Bilge keel, sloop yacht, Golden Hind For Sale - £16,950 - Maldon, Essex - Boatshop24.co.uk

sailingdog · #6 (**permalink**) 11-23-2010

Jackdale—

IIRC, the Golden Hinds were also built in the USA by CE Ryder, out of Rhode Island.

Izzy1414 · #7 (**permalink**) 11-23-2010

The bilge keel is designed with your environmental parameters in mind. Definitely worth a look if that is a priority for you. To your specific question on swing keels .... any retractable keel boat that is designed to beach will allow it to sit "relatively" upright when high and dry. Failure to raise the rudder and keel (whether it's a swing keel, dagger board or other) before hand will cause you problems though.

tcastrosantos · #8 (**permalink**) 11-23-2010

Great feedback, one and all. Now could someone please explain to me the difference between bilge and twin keels? Also any pics of the Ryders would be interesting--that Golden Hind is georgeous

sailingdog · #9 (**permalink**) 11-23-2010

The main difference is that bilge keels are generally flat plates, where twin keels are usually shaped foils. Bilge keels are often added to boats to improve their stability, but not really designed to resist leeway, and may be very shallow in depth. In fact, some sailboats with a keel may have bilge keels added to help provide additional stability. This photo is an extreme example of a shallow bilge keel.

Given your interest in learning more about them, I'd recommend you read the article located HERE.

TheWhiteRabbit · #10 (**permalink**) 11-23-2010

Quote:

Originally Posted by jackdale

You should probably look at a bilge keel. There are some in the size range in which you are interested.

Jackdale; do you know what kindda boat this is a picture of? That thing is BadAzz!