Re: Weighted Keel
Posted: Sun May 31, 2009 12:01 am
Personally, I don't sail without water ballast, even with my 180 lb daggerboard. It's just not worth the risk and added stress. As for weight, I don't think it's linear math. Consider that the motoring speed between a ballasted boat vs. non-ballasted with a 50 hp engine is 3 knots (difference) at WOT. We're talking 1150 lbs on an 
Based on the math stated, that would mean the speed would have to drop by 10 knots, and clearly this is not the case. The location of the weight probably plays a role. I lost virtually no speed under power afer adding the weighted keel. Sailing speed increased due to reduction in heel which more than overcomes the extra weight. Crew weight positioned on the windward side can also speed up the boat unless winds are very light. Bottom line is, it's not just about weight but how the weight is used.
Based on the math stated, that would mean the speed would have to drop by 10 knots, and clearly this is not the case. The location of the weight probably plays a role. I lost virtually no speed under power afer adding the weighted keel. Sailing speed increased due to reduction in heel which more than overcomes the extra weight. Crew weight positioned on the windward side can also speed up the boat unless winds are very light. Bottom line is, it's not just about weight but how the weight is used.
