"Mike" wrote in message
...
Looking specifically at a Moody 425 (1980's) there are two keel
configurations available: a standard fin keel at 1.88 m draft and a
shoal keel at 1.44 m draft which has a flared lower edge (foot?).

Apart from the obvious advantage of less draft in shallow waters can
anybody comment on how the different keels perform during different
points of sailing and in different wave conditions?

Thanks for any help.

Mike

The shallower keel will usually be longer along the length of the boat. This
length adds to the self steering ability of a boat. However, it slows the
response time on the helm and will take a little longer to tack- a problem
if you are after the Americas cup or the tin plate offered at the local
twilight races.

The Flared foot (or wing) will dampen the wave motion somewhat.

Does the longer keel have the wing also? If not you may find that the weight
of the wing actually compensates for lack of depth and the C.O.B (Centre of
Balance) is about the same. Although, as mentioned in other posts, you will
most likely find that the shallower keel has less pointing abilty. It not
usually enough to worry about if you arent racing.

DP