Full keel vs. fin keel? How much do you value speed and "feel" on the wheel or tiller? A fin keel boat basically pivots around the keel, and having that separate rudder really helps it do so. A full keel will feel much more truck-like while sailing, slower to respond to the helm. Full keel boats are going to be slower in general with more wetted surface, etc., but they may be less tender, depending on the design.

Also, backing will be less easy with a full keel, if it matters to you.

I don't think you have to worry about seaworthiness, so to speak, with a fin keel, as long as you have a decent make of boat. Construction matters more than configuration.

All the above are my opinions, formed with a lot of blue water and brown water under various keels. And I'm talking cruising boats - not crazy racing boats with "fin" keels.

Rgds,
Chris W.
'95 E300D

Once had about 20 minutes at the helm of "Constellation" (early 12 meter America's Cup winner) for a team building event several years ago, and she drove like an absolute pig, my expectations were crushed! Relatively tiny rudder with big full keel = SLOW SLOW response.

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