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Swing Keels:
Embracing Safety, Flexibility, and Performance

When it comes to sailboat keels, there are various designs available, each offering unique advantages. In this article, we will explore the merits of swing keels—hinged keels that provide inherent safety, increased maneuverability, and the potential for high-performance sailing. We will delve into why swing keels stand out as a reliable choice, allowing sailors to navigate shallow waters, free themselves from groundings, and even embrace the design principles of high aspect fixed racing keels.


Safety Through Forgiveness

One of the notable benefits of swing keels lies in their ability to withstand groundings with minimal damage to the boat's structure and the keel itself. The hinged design allows the keel to swing up when encountering an obstacle, reducing the risk of catastrophic damage. This forgiveness factor enhances the safety of the sailboat, providing peace of mind when exploring unfamiliar waters or navigating shallow areas.

Increased Maneuverability and Flexibility

Swing keels offer enhanced maneuverability compared to fixed keels. By raising the keel, the sailboat gains the ability to navigate in shallower waters and access secluded anchorages that may be off-limits to boats with fixed keels. This flexibility opens up a world of exploration possibilities, allowing sailors to venture closer to shorelines, explore hidden coves, and adapt to changing tides and conditions with ease.

Easy Grounding Recovery

In the event of grounding, swing keels prove advantageous. As the keel is designed to swing up and clear obstructions, it minimizes the risk of getting stuck or causing significant damage. Sailors can often free themselves by raising the keel, repositioning the boat, and continuing their journey. This feature offers a level of self-reliance and eliminates the need for external assistance in many grounding scenarios.

Potential for High-Performance Design

While swing keels typically feature a basic profile, there is no reason why they cannot be designed to resemble high aspect fixed racing keels. By utilizing advanced design principles, swing keels can achieve improved lift and reduced drag, enhancing a sailboat's performance capabilities. This allows sailors to enjoy both the versatility of a swing keel and the performance advantages associated with high aspect racing keels, delivering a thrilling sailing experience across a range of conditions.



Keel raised reduces draft from 1.9m to 0.8m.

Swing keels offer a compelling combination of safety, flexibility, and performance for sailors seeking versatile and adaptable sailboats. The hinged design ensures a forgiving nature, minimizing damage in groundings and granting sailors the freedom to explore shallower waters. The ease of recovery from grounding situations promotes self-reliance and enables sailors to continue their journey without delay. Furthermore, the potential to incorporate high-performance design elements in swing keels offers the best of both worlds — maneuverability and racing capabilities. Embrace the advantages of swing keels, and unlock new horizons on your sailing adventures.



Are you ready to experience the unmatched safety, flexibility, and performance of a swing keel? Discover the BoE 26, our exceptional sailboat that embodies all the advantages we discussed in this article. Visit the boat's page today to explore the features, specifications, and customization options available. Embark on your sailing adventures with a sailboat that combines a high aspect swing keel with innovative design. Find out more about the BoE 26 at Andante Marine.

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