Swing keel vs. fixed keel

[andrew]

I want to purchase a used Catalina 22. Any thoughts on what is better, swing keelor fixed keel. Pros & cons???? Thanks for your help. Drew

 

[Bill]

Swing keel for me

I guess the best thing to ask yourself is “where will I be sailing?”Where I sail there is a lot of ‘thin’ water and the swing keel and kick-up rudder are my best choices. If you were to do more coastal and deep water type of sailing then I would go for a fixed keel. The swing keel does have more maintenance, as things have to move 550 pounds up and down. Good luck, whether you go for a fixed or a swing keel, you can’t beat the little 22 for fun.

 

[Ted]

They both are better

Swing keel is better for getting into shallow harbors. It is easier to trailer launch.Fixed keel is better if you have deep waters and do not launch frequently.Regards,Ted