Q: I sail on the Great South Bay of Long Island,
Average depth 5 feet. I'm looking for a 34-36 foot sloop or ketch with
a swing keel. Any suggestions?

Roger M.
Long Island

A:
There used to be a large number of centerboard boats on the market, but in
recent years everyone seems to have gone for performance. After looking over
all my files, I can only find a Bluewater 36 footer from Holby Marine in
Bristol Rhode Island that has a centerboard. I'm not sure if these boats are still in
production.

Hunter Marine has a few models with reduced draft, although their 340 draws
4'6 in its shallow draft version. Check www.Huntermarine.com
Check also the Sabre 362, it can be found with a 4 foot 2 inch draft.
See www.sabreyachts.com.

I have just sailed the Shannon 32. It draws 30 inches, and has the room of
a 35 footer. You might want to check out the photos and story on boats.com. Use the keyword 'shoalsailer' in the site search box.

You could also look at some of the catamarans on the market. A relatively
small cat such as the PDQ Altair (a 31 footer) sleeps six, has the space
of a 36 footer and only draws 3 feet 2 inches. Check www.cata-lagoon.com or
www.pdqyachts.com