Swing or Fin?
Fred, I can't comment on the specific performance of the C25 swing keel since I own a C25 fin, but I have read plenty about swingers and, aside from some maintenance issues, I understand the performance between the two keel designs are fairly close. Most choose the swing for the purpose of trailering or gunkholing in the shallows, which makes the swinger a good choice, but if you aren't trailering and depth isn't an issue, then you might want to look for a fin. With it's near zero maintenance, the fin keel is easier to take care of over the swinger, but would be more difficult to trailer. Depending on availability, fin keels tend to be cheaper (at least in my area) due to the fact that they can't be easily trailered, and thus generally need the services of a full service boatyard (hoisting, storage,...etc), whereas the swinger can be loaded up and towed home. Mostly the keel choice boils down to personal preference, dollars, and maintenance. Have you looked over at the C25/250 National Association yet? There are a few articles on evaluating C25's and the sailor's forum is the best you'll find anywhere. Why don't you pop over to the C25 Sailor's Forum at the National Association and copy this question over there. I guarantee you'll get a slew of answers and opinions. Click on the Related Link to take you to the C25/250 National Association. Besides the forum, take a look at the Technical Tips for the C25. There is a couple of articles there that might interest you. Good Luck.
