How much draft is too much for South Florida

[reed1v]

Originally Posted by Snore

Reed

Some hack of a designer named Perry wrote "there is no substitute for draft". Having read his book I realize that while keels like the Scheel are a workable substitute. They are a comprise.

Deep draft provides provides a larger surface and better LR when going to windward.

Perry has a good track record when it comes to designing long range cruising boats. The keel issue really comes down to what you want to do with the boat. For puttering around the Carib and the Chessie then centerboard/shallow draft makes sense. For going round the world, deeper the better with keels.
I would not drive a golf cart across country but also would not drive a caddie just to go around this island.

[star dust]

My 1987 33' Glander up on the block isn't large, but her 2.8 draft will get you through Florida's SWAMPS if you want. And you can liveaboard, single hand, and be happy.

[Cadence]

Originally Posted by Snore

Reed

Some hack of a designer named Perry wrote "there is no substitute for draft". Having read his book I realize that while keels like the Scheel are a workable substitute. They are a comprise.

Deep draft provides provides a larger surface and better LR when going to windward.

I'm am glad I went back and read it, that hack was in jest.

[four winds]

Originally Posted by Hoosiersailor

Just out of curiosity, is there a website or list that has most of the production boats (Hunter, Catalina, Jeanneau, Beneteau, etc) in a list with length, draft, height, etc.?

I use sailboatdata.com

[Sailingketch]

My 36' ketch draws 4.5' and I have gone aground four times. Once was while waiting at a drawbridge on the ICW north of Fort Lauderdale. I had to wait for the tide to lift me off. Another time I had to be towed by BoatUS and I was right next to the channel marker!

Most of my sailing is on the Gulf of Mexico side of Florida but I wouldn't consider over 5' draft. Even with 4.5' I bump often including in the marina where I am familiar with the layout.

7.5' would be very limiting for this area.