Seajet
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A snag now becoming apparent with built-in buoyancy boats such as Etaps, later Sadlers and the Anderson 26 is that even closed cell foam attracts and traps moisture, meanwhile it's difficult getting to any hull damage in a hurry.
Etap 21i or similar
- Thread starter mbroom
- Start date
ReggieK
Well-Known Member
Have been sailing my 21i now since 2002, all year round, and she is still going strong. However, as I don't trailer sail I am sorry I opted for the tandem keel, she would sail upwind so much better with the full fin. There is another owner nearby who regularly sails his between Dublin and Holyhead with no problems.
mbroom
Well-Known Member
Thanks. It seems that all currently for sale have the tandem keel.... Is there a big difference as compared with the fin keel?
ianat182
Well-Known Member
There's a First211 for sale afloat on the Hamble river (Warsash side, near the pink ferry hut) Hull is dark blue; no connection; no price indicated, just a notice on board. May be fin or bilge keeled.
ianat182
ianat182
ReggieK
Well-Known Member
To be honest, I haven't sailed one with the fin keel, but I reckon it has to make a difference. Mine struggles upwind in a blow. I have raced against B 211's and they can get much closer to the wind which can be very frustrating, I can keep up down wind no problem. However, for cruising it's not a big issue, just expect to take a bit longer to arrive at your windward destination. The tandem keel also has the advantage of being able to negotiate shallower waters.
Just another advantage, I am moored up alongside B211's and during the winter they have to take all their mattresses etc out over winter, whereas the Etap stays dry as a bone.
