Keel basics

Keels are an essential part of any boat's design and determine handling properties, durability, and comfort. To understand why they matter, we must understand how they work first.

All types explained

The keel type is one of the most important features of your boat. But the different designs can be confusing, so I've set out to create a very clear guide that will help you understand sailboat keels once and for all. After reading this guide, you'll know which keel types are available, and what their strengths and weaknesses are.

Best keel for you

As we've learned from the overview of keel types earlier, each keel type has it's own advantages and disadvantages. Depending on your situation, you may want to choose a different keel type. In this section we will help you make up your mind on the best keel type for your situation.

Keel basics

Keels are an essential part of any boat's design and determine handling properties, durability, and comfort. To understand why they matter, we must understand how they work first.

All types explained

The keel type is one of the most important features of your boat. But the different designs can be confusing, so I've set out to create a very clear guide that will help you understand sailboat keels once and for all. After reading this guide, you'll know which keel types are available, and what their strengths and weaknesses are.

Best keel for you

As we've learned from the overview of keel types earlier, each keel type has it's own advantages and disadvantages. Depending on your situation, you may want to choose a different keel type. In this section we will help you make up your mind on the best keel type for your situation.

All Sailboat Keels Explained Articles

13 Most Popular Bilge Keel Sailboats Worth Considering

By Desiree Vilar in Sailboat Keels Explained

Are Bilge Keels Good For Ocean Crossings?

By Sophia Roa in Sailboat Keels Explained

13 Most Popular Swing Keel Sailboats Worth Considering

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7 Reliable Swing Keel Sailboat Manufacturers (And Why)

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How Does the Winged Keel Work?

By Desiree Vilar in Sailboat Keels Explained

The Largest 3 Sailboats with Swing Keels (In Detail)

By Desiree Vilar in Sailboat Keels Explained

Sailboat Keel Types Compared: Pros and Cons of 13 Types

By Sophia Roa in Sailboat Keels Explained
Diagram of full keel and fin keel sailboat

Fin Keel vs Full Keel: Pros and Cons & When to Choose Which

By William Porter in Sailboat Keels Explained

How Does Sailing Ballast Work and Why Do Boats Need It?

By Shawn Buckles in Sailboat Keels Explained

Sailboat Keel Depth: Draft of 9 Common Keel Types

By Shawn Buckles in Sailboat Keels Explained

Sailboat Keels Are Made of These 4 Materials (Lead, Iron)

By Shawn Buckles in Sailboat Keels Explained

Average Weight of Sailboat Keels (5 Most Common Types)

By Shawn Buckles in Sailboat Keels Explained

What Is a Sailboat Keel and How Does it Work?

By Shawn Buckles in Sailboat Keels Explained

The Ballast to Displacement Ratio Explained (with Formula)

By Shawn Buckles in Sailboat Keels Explained