When considering ocean crossings, many sailors debate the advantages and disadvantages of different keel designs. Among them, bilge keels often come up as a less common but potentially appealing option. Designed to stabilize boats in shallow or drying waters, bilge keels are typically seen on smaller cruising vessels. But the big question remains: are bilge keels good for ocean crossings? In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of bilge keels, their performance in offshore conditions, and whether they are a suitable choice for long-distance ocean sailing.
What are Bilge Keels?
A bilge keel is a type of twin-keel configuration, where two separate keels are attached at an angle to the hull of the boat, typically on either side of the centerline. This design contrasts with the more common fin keel or full keel, which features a single keel running along the boat’s center.
Bilge keels are often found on smaller sailboats designed for coastal cruising or shallow waters. They allow boats to stand upright when grounded in tidal regions, which is a significant advantage in areas like the UK, parts of Europe, and coastal New England where drying harbors are common.
How Bilge Keels Perform in Ocean Conditions
Bilge keels have a specific set of characteristics that influence their performance in various sailing conditions, particularly during ocean crossings.
1. Stability and Comfort
One of the key benefits of bilge keels is the added stability they offer, particularly in light winds and calmer seas. Because the two keels are located on either side of the boat, they reduce the boat’s tendency to heel, providing a more comfortable sailing experience in moderate conditions. This can make a significant difference during long voyages, where comfort is crucial.
However, in heavy seas or high winds, bilge keel boats may not offer the same level of stability as boats with a single, deeper keel. While they can handle offshore conditions, the reduced draft and shallower keel design may result in a rougher motion in extreme weather, potentially leading to more pitching and rolling.
2. Windward Performance
One of the main criticisms of bilge keels is their performance when sailing upwind. Compared to a fin keel or deep full keel, bilge keels generate more drag due to their dual-keel design and typically shallower draft. This results in less efficient upwind sailing, requiring more tacking and reducing the overall speed of the vessel.
In an ocean crossing, especially when facing headwinds, this reduced performance can mean a longer and more challenging passage. While not a deal-breaker for some sailors, it’s an important factor to consider if you’re planning a journey that includes significant upwind sailing.
3. Shallow Draft and Grounding Ability
One of the standout features of bilge keel boats is their shallow draft. This is particularly useful for coastal sailing or island hopping, where navigating shallow waters or drying harbors is essential. A bilge keel boat can easily take advantage of anchorages that would be off-limits to deeper-keeled vessels.
For ocean crossings, this shallow draft may come in handy when approaching shallow anchorages at remote islands. However, in deep ocean waters, this advantage is less significant. While a shallow draft can provide more flexibility in coastal areas, it doesn’t offer much benefit in the vast, deep ocean.
4. Durability and Structural Strength
Bilge keels are often built for cruising boats that prioritize durability over performance. The keels are typically well-reinforced, making them less vulnerable to damage from accidental groundings. This robustness can be a significant advantage when sailing in unfamiliar waters, especially when venturing into less-charted territories.
On the downside, the added structural complexity of twin keels can sometimes mean more points of potential failure. While modern bilge keel designs are generally very durable, their structure is still more complex than a single-keel boat, which could require more frequent inspection and maintenance over time.
5. Ease of Repair and Maintenance
One of the most practical advantages of a bilge keel is its ease of maintenance. In tidal areas, a bilge keel boat can rest upright when the tide goes out, making it easy to perform hull inspections, clean the bottom, or conduct repairs without needing to haul the boat out of the water. This can be particularly useful in remote areas where boatyards and facilities are limited.
For long ocean crossings, however, this ease of maintenance may not be as relevant. In deep ocean waters, the ability to dry out and perform maintenance is less of a concern, as most ocean-going repairs would need to be carried out while afloat.
Are Bilge Keels Suitable for Ocean Crossings?
The suitability of bilge keels for ocean crossings depends largely on the specific voyage, the sailor’s preferences, and the boat’s design. Here’s a summary of the key factors to consider:
Advantages of Bilge Keels for Ocean Crossings:
- Stability in Moderate Conditions: Bilge keels offer a stable, comfortable ride in light winds and moderate seas.
- Grounding Protection: The shallow draft and upright stance when grounded are excellent for coastal cruising and approaching shallow anchorages.
- Durability: The robust construction of bilge keel boats makes them well-suited for cruising in diverse environments.
Disadvantages of Bilge Keels for Ocean Crossings:
- Upwind Performance: The reduced upwind sailing efficiency means longer, more challenging passages in headwinds.
- Rough Motion in Heavy Seas: In more severe offshore conditions, bilge keel boats may not handle as smoothly as single-keel designs, leading to increased motion and discomfort.
- Speed and Efficiency: Bilge keel boats are generally slower than their single-keel counterparts, which can prolong an ocean crossing.
The Verdict: Bilge Keels for Ocean Crossings
Bilge keels can certainly be used for ocean crossings, but they are not always the optimal choice, especially when compared to fin keels or deep full keels. The advantages of bilge keels, such as their grounding ability and shallow draft, make them excellent for coastal cruising and island hopping. However, for long ocean passages, the reduced windward performance and potentially rougher motion in heavy seas might make them less appealing.
For sailors who prioritize comfort in moderate conditions, plan to explore remote and shallow anchorages, or prefer a boat that can handle occasional grounding, a bilge keel boat may still be a good option. However, if speed, upwind performance, and ocean-going efficiency are critical for your crossing, a deeper keel design may be a better choice.
Ultimately, whether a bilge keel is right for your ocean crossing will depend on your sailing style, your route, and your specific vessel. Understanding the trade-offs and being prepared for the conditions you’ll face is key to making the best choice for your adventure.
Happy Boating!
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Read Antifreeze to Winterize Your Boat: What & How Much until we meet in the next article.