Wing, Swing, Fing.....Sorry ...Fin
Hi Bill, I have a '89 wing keel Catalina 22, and I love it. I looked at a lot of C22's, most with swing keels, and the only reason I didn't buy a swing keel, was the issue of maintanance on the swing keel itself. I just didn't want one more thing to have to do. But I must say that the extra weight, and the longer draft (when completly lowered) is a plus, as well as getting into shallower water(with the keel fully up) is very nice as well. If I sailed in deeper water, and the draft was not an issue, I would like the 36" draft that the fin keel offers( I believe it's 36"). So for me, it was a trade off, less work, a cool 30" draft wing keel( which has protected the rudder from being smashed from rocks once last year, the wing just took the blow and dented the lead), and, I have to anchor in water thats a little deeper than my kids are tall.... but they will grow, and water is good for them! It's all a matter of choice. They are all good, and good fun as well. Take care, Jay