Aug 4, 2020 · The purpose of a keel, fin, or centerboard is to provide resistance to making leeway; in effect, to keep the yacht from sliding sideways through the water due to wind pressure on the sails. Various shapes of underwater plane have been in and out of style over the past 150 years.

Keel design and ballast can easily be overlooked when choosing a sailing yacht, but having the right keel design for the cruising you do, and having the ballast in the right place can transform your sailing and improve your life on board.

Jan 1, 2025 · Choosing the right keel is crucial for maximizing your sailboat’s performance, stability, and handling. Each type has its strengths and weaknesses, so understanding your needs based on the type of sailing you plan to do is key. Whether you prioritize speed, maneuverability, or stability, there is a keel design that fits your requirements.

A bilge keel is a twin keel which uses double fins, allowing the boat to be beached and rest on its keel upright. Bilge keels have double the wetted surface, which increases comfort and directional stability while decreasing heel.

Jun 19, 2023 · Peter Poland looks at the history of keel design and how the different keel types affect the performance of your boat

Here, Voconti discusses the science of foil sections, planform shapes, lift and drag characteristics, and bulb and winglet keels. In the next issue, Eric Sponberg will look at keel and rudder engineering and construction, including calculating keelbolt sizes and rudderpost diameters.

A keel is a very important part of a sailboat, crucial to its stability and ability to sail upwind. This article will discuss the fundamentals of all keels down to the details of the best keel for your boat. We will answer questions including what it does, what it's made of, and even some problems that a keel can cause

Every Sirius yacht is available with either lifting / swing keel, fin keel, or twin keels. We explain the advantages and disadvantages of each keel design.

Jan 3, 2025 · Sailboat keels come in various shapes and configurations, each suited for specific sailing conditions and purposes. a. Fin Keel. Design: A narrow, vertical keel often used on racing sailboats. Advantages: High performance, good maneuverability, and speed. Disadvantages: Requires deeper water and can be less stable in rough seas. b. Full Keel.

Oct 28, 2024 · However, there is more to keel and rudder design than simply making sure they don’t fail. I’ll explain what the keel and rudder actually do and how they do. I am hoping this will help you understand why they come in so many sizes and shapes and why some old salts get passionate about it.