Ballast

[john-206]

I'm sure many of you will have started with this problem at some time. I'v just bought my first boat a 20foot fibreglass cruiser to cruise the canal systems in the UK.<br /><br />Due to its lack of weight even the slightest breeze blows it all over the place and it's hard to control when the wind gets worse.<br /><br />Would adding ballast help or would I be wasting my time, I know that they add ballast to Narrowboats but not sure about small cruisers.

 

[Richard Petersen]

Re: Ballast

You do not want weight added. IT only slows the rate to reach the same drift speed. Then you have the bigger problem of slowing the heavier boat. NO GAIN.--------I would recommend you have a deeper keel on your boat. It is much more effective in stopping side ways movement and the boat still runs normally. A good marina could C clamp a few lengths to the keel for a quick check to find out what satisfies you.--------------------- Cheaper lighter and more effective.