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Sailboat Specifications

Blackwater 18

Masthead Sloop · Long Keel W/Trans. Hung Rudder

Designed by Daniel Webb · Built by Dan Webb And Feesy (Uk) · First built 1932

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LOA 18.42 ft  ·  Beam 6.42 ft  ·  Displacement 5,622.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 178.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Long Keel W/Trans. Hung Rudder
About the Blackwater 18 Sailboat

Designed by Daniel Webb in 1932, this classic English sailboat represents traditional yacht design from the golden age of sailing. Built by Dan Webb And Feesy in the UK with traditional wood plank construction, approximately 100 of these vessels were produced, making them a relatively rare sight on today's waters. The Blackwater 18's conservative design philosophy emphasizes seaworthiness over speed. Her long keel configuration with transom-hung rudder provides excellent directional stability and predictable handling characteristics, though at the expense of maneuverability in tight quarters. The substantial displacement of over 5,600 pounds gives this compact cruiser impressive stability and load-carrying capacity for her size. With a masthead sloop rig and moderate sail area, she's well-suited for coastal cruising and day sailing rather than racing applications. The generous beam provides good interior volume and initial stability, while the three-foot draft allows access to shallow anchorages while maintaining reasonable upwind performance. Her excellent comfort ratio indicates she'll provide a steady, comfortable motion in seaway conditions, making her an appealing choice for sailors who prioritize traditional sailing characteristics and solid construction over modern performance. These boats appeal particularly to enthusiasts of classic yacht design and those seeking a manageable-sized cruiser with offshore capability.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 18.42 ft / 5.61 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 16.00 ft / 4.88 m
Beam 6.42 ft / 1.96 m
Max Draft 3.00 ft / 0.91 m
Displacement 5,622.00 lb / 2,550 kg
Ballast 1,232.00 lb / 559 kg
Ballast Type Iron
Sail Area (Reported) 178.00 ft² / 16.54 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Long keel w/trans. hung rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction Wood plank
Designer Daniel Webb
Builder Dan Webb and Feesy (UK)
First Built 1932
Number Built 100
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Blackwater 18's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Blackwater 18 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 9.03. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Blackwater 18's comfort ratio?

The Blackwater 18 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 43.61. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Blackwater 18 safe for offshore sailing?

The Blackwater 18 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.45. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Blackwater 18?

The theoretical hull speed of the Blackwater 18 is 5.36 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Blackwater 18 weigh?

The Blackwater 18 has a displacement of 5,622.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 18.42 ft.

Who designed the Blackwater 18?

The Blackwater 18 was designed by Daniel Webb, first built in 1932.