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Sailboat Specifications

Graves Constellation

Fractional Sloop · Fin Keel

Designed by E. Selman Graves · Built by Graves Yacht Yard (Usa) · First built 1964

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LOA 29.42 ft  ·  Beam 8.00 ft  ·  Displacement 6,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 390.00 ft²  ·  Fractional Sloop  ·  Fin Keel
About the Graves Constellation Sailboat

Designed by E. Selman Graves and built by Graves Yacht Yard from 1964 to 1971, this distinctive 29-foot sailboat represents classic American yacht design from the mid-1960s. With only 27 hulls produced during its seven-year production run, the Constellation stands as a relatively rare find in today's market. The boat's fractional sloop rig and fin keel configuration deliver respectable performance for coastal cruising and club racing. Her 6,000-pound displacement strikes a balanced chord between stability and speed, while the substantial 2,750-pound ballast provides confident sailing characteristics. The moderate sail-area-to-displacement ratio of 18.96 suggests she's designed more for comfortable cruising than pure racing performance, though she'll hold her own in weekend regattas. Notable design elements include the hybrid construction featuring a fiberglass hull paired with a traditional wood coachroof, reflecting the transitional period when builders were adopting modern materials while retaining classic aesthetics. Her comfort ratio of 25.26 indicates motion that's quite manageable for extended passages, while the capsize screening value of 1.76 suggests reasonable offshore capability for an experienced crew. The Constellation appeals to sailors seeking a well-mannered coastal cruiser with vintage character and proven seaworthiness.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 29.42 ft / 8.97 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 20.25 ft / 6.17 m
Beam 8.00 ft / 2.44 m
Max Draft 4.67 ft / 1.42 m
Displacement 6,000.00 lb / 2,722 kg
Ballast 2,750.00 lb / 1,247 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 390.00 ft² / 36.23 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin Keel
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction FG hull; wood coachroof
Designer E. Selman Graves
Builder Graves Yacht Yard (USA)
First Built 1964
Last Built 1971
Number Built 27
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Graves Constellation's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Graves Constellation has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.96. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Graves Constellation's comfort ratio?

The Graves Constellation has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 25.26. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Graves Constellation safe for offshore sailing?

The Graves Constellation has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.76. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Graves Constellation?

The theoretical hull speed of the Graves Constellation is 6.03 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Graves Constellation weigh?

The Graves Constellation has a displacement of 6,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 29.42 ft.

Who designed the Graves Constellation?

The Graves Constellation was designed by E. Selman Graves, first built in 1964.