seaward yachts

Ogem Marine  Inc.

Business  Be  Independent  &  Pleasure as Well

Our boats are constructed from various proven composite formulas. Below the waterline, the outside layer of ISONPG Gelcoat is backed by a layer of vinylester which is impervious to water penetration and osmosis blistering. The general laminate that accounts for the structure of the hull, deck, and liner is a triaxial stack of unidirectional e-glass, hand-laid. Parts of the bow stem, rudder blades, and keel foil are unidirectional carbon fiber with a vinylester matrix. Our keel trunks are laminated as a part of the hull, as the hull is laid up. When the trunk is bonded to the deck, the result is an extremely rigid structure. There are no coring materials below the waterline and there are no cores that are not impervious to water anywhere on our boats.

Hull To Deck Joint

Each of our boat models have hull to deck joints that are mechanically and chemically joined. Each model has a hull flange designed for maximum mating surface with the deck. The 26RK hull flange is an inverted “J” style. The hull turns outward and downward at the gunnel, and the deck turns downward as well.

The 32RK model has inward turned hull flanges mated to the deck. The hull to deck joints on all models are extremely strong and watertight.

Keel Winch Mechanism

Our keels are housed in a trunk and moved vertically by a 12 volt winch mounted in a water tight box above deck. An ultrahigh strength synthetic cable 1.4 times stronger and 15 times lighter than comparable stainless cable, is routed from the winch drum through a series of stainless turning blocks to provide mechanical advantage to raise or lower the keel.  Our 32RK and 26RK models use 3 turning blocks, all with a 12,000 lb. rating. All components are designed to far exceed any load placed on them and are chosen to be maintenance free and durable in a salt-water environment. All components of the keel winch mechanism are easily accessible. Keel position is controlled via toggle switch from the cockpit.

Keel and Bulb

Our keels are constructed with hand laid outer skins of fiberglass and an inner core of polyester composit. There is no foam or coring material of any kind in the foil. Our bulbs are solid lead castings, and are joined to the keel by stainless threaded rods embedded in the foil. The rods run the length of the foil and through the bulb, and are capped at pockets at the bottom of the bulb with washer and nut. The cast lead bulbs are epoxy coated for better antifoulant adhesion. There are three 5/8” treaded stainless rods for the 32rk and 26rk models.

Yanmar Diesel

Our 32RK has a Yanmar diesel as standard equipment. The 26RK has a diesel or outboard options. The diesel choice for the 26RK is a Yanmar 2YM15 fresh water cooled two cylinder engine producing 15hp. When opting for outboard power, we recommend you purchase your motor from a dealer near you, and suggest a long or extra-long shaft model of approximately 7-9 hp. When outboard power is your choice, we supply an adjustable motor bracket on the transom at no charge.

The 32RK diesel is a Yanmar 3YM-30, producing 29 hp. This is a 3 cylinder engine.

All of our diesels are heat exchanger cooled, and have conventional prop shaft drives, with dripless shaft logs.

A gensets is available on our 32RK  model. Our gensets are single cylinder diesel powered, 4.2kw rated and fresh water cooled. They are housed in sound proofed compartments and are easily accessed for service.

Details : 26 RK

Nicely Equipped at $98,500

The Seaward 26RK is set apart from others in her size and class by her spacious and open cabin, effective use of space and superb performance capabilities. Like all of our sailboats, the 26RK offers an adjustable keel and rudder.  With a draft range between 15” and 6’ you can adjust the keel from the cockpit to suit water depth as shallow as 18″ yet be extremely capable offshore.  Low center of effort sailplan and center of gravity, considerable hull form stability and ballast low in a bulb at the keel’s lower tip provides great stability. Clean underbody and high aspect foils assure high levels of performance on all points of sail. Standard, she comes nicely equipped.  Freedom to SAIL WITHOUT BOUNDARIES in style and comfort!

Details :   32 RK

Nicely Equipped at $198,000

Inspired by the vast water geography of Florida, our Seaward 32RK is the perfect performance/cruiser combination. Generous in space and thoughtful in design our 32RK offers unique teak wood and stainless finishings and accents. Her cabin is comfortable and bright with eight opening ports and two deck hatches, allowing sufficient natural light to shine in. With capacity to sleep four comfortably, she is well appointed for a long journey or a day on the beach. From cooking to showering, and eating to relaxing, we understand your needs in each calculated design.

Never before has a sailboat performed with such distinction yet been so easy to trailer. Her keel not only enhances performance but affords flexibility and ease. With a draft range between 20” and 6’6” she rides close to the wind in deep waters and provides the flexibility and safety to sail in shallow conditions. Come aboard the 32RK and let’s talk about how to realize your dream of owning a quality sailboat that will take you where you want to sail without boundaries.

SPECIFICATIONS & STANDARDS

General Deck Construction

Seaward rudder operation, www.seawardyachts.com.

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• Sailboat Guide

Hake Yachts (Seaward)

Hake Yachts, Inc. was founded by Nick Hake. Hake purchased Island Packet and Blue Jacket in April 2016. Hake was subsequently purchased by Darrell and Leslie Allen in January 2017. All manufacturing for Seaward Yachts is now done at the Island Packet manufacturing facility in Largo Florida. 1979 Wild Acres Road Largo, Florida 33771 Original location: 4550 SE HAMPTON COURT STUART FL 34997 USA Parts Information - 727.535.6431

12 sailboats built by Hake Yachts (Seaward)

Seaward Eagle

Seaward Fox

Seaward 32rk.

Seaward 46RK

Seaward 26rk.

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Seaward 46RK

• By Mark Pillsbury
• Updated: November 9, 2013

All sailboats are purpose built to some degree, and the Seaward 46RK is no exception. Sitting in the captain’s chair with the oversized wheel at my fingertips, protected from the elements by the bimini mounted on the overhead steel arch, I could well imagine fall days sailing along the inland bays of the Intracoastal Waterway or enjoying my shady seat while gunkholing through the shallow passes of the Bahamas.

The RK in the boat’s name stands for Retractable Keel, and it’s that feature, along with lifting rudders, that makes the Seaward 46 a viable option for skippers bound for thin waters. Don’t get me wrong: With a powerful solent rig, full-batten main, twin 54-horsepower diesels, and a 7-foot-6-inch draft with the keel down, the vessel has all the power and propulsion options needed for a passage to anywhere. It’s just that once there, the boat’s 2-foot-5-inch draft with the keel up will let you explore nooks and crannies that most sailors will only view from afar—or from their dinghy.

I got aboard the 46RK last fall and spent a couple of hours sailing the boat in winds averaging 10 to 12 knots. On the one hand, the boat is fairly straightforward to operate. From the helm, the engine controls and the electric winches are close at hand, and you enjoy good visibility forward over the raised cabin top. The jib set on the inner forestay is self-tending, so tacking upwind requires only a turn of the wheel.

That said, I was glad to have designer and builder Nick Hake aboard because on the 46RK, in addition to trimming the sails, adjusting the rudder and keel depth affects how the boat sails. Set the foils too shallow, you get leeway; too deep, and you’re needlessly dragging appendages through the water. Set just right, though, you get a very pleasant and rewarding ride. And we did.

The 46RK features a raised coach roof and large cabin-house ports, which immediately make sense when you step below. To port is an inside raised navigation/helm station with a captain’s chair identical to the one you find topside. You also have another set of engine controls, a second set of nav instruments, and a panorama of all that lies before you. A rainy day transiting The Ditch? That would pose no problem.

To starboard and down a step, there’s a fully stocked inline galley, complete with espresso machine. Aft are two cabins, both with double berths and ample storage. Forward, the owner’s stateroom is plush, with a centerline queen berth, head and shower, and, again, lots of storage.

The hull is hand laid and solid glass to the waterline. Topsides and deck are cored. The keel is enclosed in a laminate box molded into the hull to prevent water intrusion in the event of a grounding. Throughout, workmanship appeared top notch.

If your sailing grounds include shallow bays and sounds or if you dream, say, of the Bahamas’ turquoise waters, the Seaward 46RK might just do the trick.

Seaward Yachts (772) 287-3200 www.seawardyachts.com

Mark Pillsbury is CW’s editor.

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Seaward 46RK by Hake

It was a beautiful Florida winter day on Biscayne Bay just after the Miami Boat Show. Sunny skies and a warm, light, easterly wind set the stage for our test sail of the new Seaward 46RK. This yacht is quite distinctive, with a retractable keel and twin rudders, and packed with ingenious design features. As we cleared the Rickenbacker Causeway, we raised the full battened main, set the 100% self-tacking jib, and glided smoothly a bit shy of 6 knots with 8 knots of true wind just forward of the beam. With light air and 100% jib, there was little heel and the 46RK had fingertip steering.

Tacking was easy, with the helmsman just turning the wheel until she was on the new tack while watching the self-tacking jib come over on its own. We tacked through 90 degrees sailing at 5 knots in the light wind. We hardened up to close-hauled with the apparent wind at 13 knots and 30 degrees off the bow with only five to 10 degrees of heel. The retractable keel was set at halfway down, as were the twin rudders, yet the 46RK tracked with almost no leeway.

Off the wind we unfurled the colorful gennaker and broad reached in only 6 knots of apparent, making 4.3 knots with no heel. The retractable keel offers a quick way to reduce wetted surface area, allowing the 46RK to maintain good speed off the wind in light air.

Nike Hake, designer of the Seaward 46RK, noted that there are skegs in front of the props to protect them when beaching and these, combined with the twin rudders, allow her to both track and maneuver well. The 46RK has rack-and-pinion steering, which is bulletproof but usually stiff, yet on the 46RK it was smooth and the helm had a very balanced feel.

In Miamarina, the 46RK showed off catamaran-like maneuverability, turning around in the tight fairway using only her twin Yanmar 54hp engines and not even touching the bow thruster. The twins allow very smooth operation in their best power/efficiency range. At 1200 RPM we made 5.4 knots with the engines so quiet we barely knew they were on. Powering up to 2400 RPM, the 46RK easily did 8.1 knots with the engines still at a comfortable sound level.

Biscayne Bay was calm, so our only experience with waves involved taking the wakes of Miami power boaters. In the wakes, the 46RK handled like a much heavier boat, taking them with little pitching and smooth roll damping. Yet, when sailing and tacking, the 46RK handled responsively like a smaller and lighter boat.

RETRACTABLE KEEL AND TWIN DAGGER RUDDERS In yacht design, there are many tradeoffs, one of which is often swapping the windward performance and stability found with a high aspect ratio fin for the shallow draft desired for cruising in waters like South Florida and the Bahamas. Seaward Yachts has addressed this challenge with the retractable keel (RK) design pioneered in their successful 26RK and 32RK models. The 46RK cleverly hides the sleeve/housing for the keel as part of the main saloon forward bulkhead and inner bulkhead for the forward head. The keel is raised and lowered using an electric winch, with the equipment located well above the waterline to resist corrosion.

A shallow draft keel is of little use if the rudders are fixed, and the 46RK addresses this with twin dagger rudders. The rudders are buoyant, so they are easy to lift. Lowering is also easy and can be done in seconds—just kick a lever free, push down until the desired stop is reached, and swing the lever back into the locking position.

From the raised pilothouse, the saloon steps down both to port and starboard. To port, tucked just outboard of the companionway, is an aft-facing nav station. Moving aft is the port stateroom, which can be converted from a double to a single, or to storage space.

Forward from the nav station is the main saloon with the galley along the port side and the dining area to starboard, followed by the forward stateroom.

The forward stateroom is the master and has a spacious feel with an island queen berth, large hanging locker and clever vanity tucked on the port side. The master stateroom has an en suite head with separate shower stall and vacu-flush toilet and one of those beautiful deck prisms that brings sparkling sunlight into dark places.

To starboard of the raised pilothouse area, the cabin steps down into the aft double stateroom, which also has an en suite head. The galley has many interesting features, including handsome cane covered cabinets that allow air circulation while offering a warm look, a large top-loading deep freezer to go along with the large refrigerator, and a double sink.

Seaward even includes an espresso machine and icemaker with the 46RK galley setup! There are far too many clever, well thought out features on the 46RK to list them all. A few of our favorites are a sump in the fuel tank plumbed with a drain to allow removing any water that might have gotten in the tank, “foot stools” that fold up at the port and starboard aft cockpit seats, line stowage compartments at each winch built into the deck mold, and windlass control at the helm station.

DETAILS The Seaward 46RK has a plumb bow and a moderate beam and displacement. The hull is constructed with solid fiberglass below the waterline and composite-cored topsides and deck. The deck is vacuum-bonded to the headliner, so it is strong and light. The 46RK’s uniqueness extends into the deck layout, which has been configured to make it easy for a couple to handle.

Sight lines are good from the helm station, and all sail controls are led to the cockpit, with a power winch for the main halyard and electric furling for the jib. Stainless handrails are everywhere, and along with wide side decks, they make moving to the foredeck more of a comfortable walk than a chance to practice one’s ballet skills.

The 46RK has been designed with distance cruising in mind and has good stowage, including a large forepeak locker with volume for bulky items. The 46RK rig sports double spreaders with moderate aft sweep, twin backstays, discontinuous standing rigging, and—on the vessel we sailed—Sta-lok fittings connecting the stays to the turnbuckles. The chainplates are bolted to the inside of the hull. The traveler is mounted on a stainless traveler arch that frees up cockpit space and yet still makes it easy to access.

Yet another unique feature is that the mast is stepped on a tabernacle, which will be integrated with a system that will allow owners to lower and raise the mast without the use of a crane. Seaward Yachts is advancing state of the art sailboat design.

They are pursuing creative solutions to age-old compromises, while maintaining a high level of quality and attention to detail.

We were impressed with the sailing characteristics, build quality, and fit and finish of the RK46. This is a vessel we would happily sail across the Gulf Stream to the Bahamas and on to points over the horizon.

This boat review was by Jeff  Grossman and Jean Levine. Jeff grew up sailing in the Florida Keys and the Bahamas. He has been actively sailing for more than 45 years. Jean has been sailing since she was 12, first on the Chesapeake Bay and then in the Caribbean on vessels ranging from Sunfish to 80’ schooners. Jeff and Jean have extensively cruised the Caribbean and Florida on their current boat, a Skye 51. Both are 100GT Masters and ASA Certified Sailing Instructors.

Visit  www.twocansail.com  for information on their seminar series.

Seaward 46 LOA 48’ LOD 45’4” LWL 44’10” Beam 13’3” Draft (board up) 2’5” Draft (board down) 7’6” Disp. 23,000 lbs. Ballast 7,500 lbs. Sail Area 1006 sq. ft. Mast height (above water) 62’ Engines (as tested): Twin Yanmars 54Hp each Fuel 180 gals. Water 180 gals.

Hake Yachts 772-287-3200 [email protected] www.seawardyachts.com

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Seaward 26 RK

By no means just a stretch version of hake yachts' 25-footer, this new craft features a retractable keel and sensible pricing options..

When Nick Hake, a graduate of the Milwaukee School of Engineering, decided that he’d had enough midwestern winters, he moved to Florida. Despite his epicurean proclivities, he decided that he liked building boats more than being the head chef at an upscale restaurant in Coconut Grove.

“I always wanted to be self-employed,” he recalled.

Between 1974 and 1982, Hake built roughly 2,000 dinghies before introducing a 17-footer called the ‘Slipper,’ which ultimately became an 18-footer that was marketed as the Fox. With the introduction of a 22-footer in 1979, he formed Seaward Yachts, but now markets Seaward models under the Hake Yachts brand.

In 1984 he introduced a 24-footer that eventually became the Seaward 25 (see PS February 1, 2003), but in 1993 he sold the company to a group of Philadelphia-based investors. However, after two years, the romance of the boatbuilding business wore thin with the hobbyist owners, and they sold the business back to Hake. He now focuses solely on production of the newly designed Seaward 26RK, and the Eagle, a shallow-water 32-footer.

Though the company enjoys a reputation for building solid boats, it was during Hake’s hiatus that lax construction methods and poor quality control resulted in a number of poorly constructed boats leaving the factory.

Since Hake’s return, boat construction and quality control have returned to prior levels. In fact, the production floor is now adorned by a bulletin board—visible to both customers and employees—that itemizes the most recent “mistakes worth mentioning,” along with the appropriate corrective measures.

“We see it, and our customers see it,” Hake said.

Design Hake designs the boats his company manufactures. His latest, the Seaward 26RK, bears a striking resemblance to her 25-foot predecessor. The first impression when viewed abeam is that her profile is traditional, accented by a tall bow and upward-sloping cabintop highlighted by four ports, and downward sloping sheerline leading to a cockpit surrounded by a stainless steel stern rail housing two seats.

“We designed new molds for the boat, and took a new approach to pricing at the same time,” Hake said. Compared to the 25-footer, the new model has 18″ more waterline length, and a more user-friendly cockpit since “most of the additional space is aft of the wheel.” The additional waterline length also contributes to improved performance.

Of the modifications, Hake says that he also “wanted to increase the designed waterline for the purpose of increasing buoyancy in the stern when she’s loaded with several adults. The 25-footer tended to drag her stern a bit when overloaded, which affects performance, so we solved that problem.”

A roomy cockpit—even on a boat this size—is an important feature as that’s where the majority of time on board will be spent. Measuring 8′ 4″ long by 5′ 2″ wide, with seats that are 16″ wide, this cockpit will comfortably seat four, allowing the helmsman adequate space to steer and the crew sufficient room to trim sails.

The 26RK also has a transom gate that eases entry from the stern.

We were befuddled to learn that most purchasers opt for a boat equipped with a wheel (a $2,150 option), since she carries a light helm and the tiller can be moved out of the way when dockside.

Hake calls his hull shape a “spherical tumblehome,” defining that as “a concentric shape at the waterline from the bow to amidships with soft bilges.” When overpowered, a soft bilge produces tippyness, but Hake explained: “she’ll make way best when heeled 10 degrees, and owners begin shortening sail when the wind pipes up to around 15 or 17 knots. Though she has a plumb bow, she also has a rounded entry that prevents broaches by eliminating the tendency of the nose to bite into the sea and skid.

“We were primarily looking for a boat that would do the best job of sailing in the waters of the East coast, particularly Florida, where we have tons of quiet and unspoiled waters that are very shallow, but also to be able to cross the Gulf Stream to the Bahamas and do some island hopping…Performance-wise, we wanted a boat that would sail with a sport-boat feel but could be easily handled by one person and comfortable for a family. We kept the rig uncomplicated, the underbody clean, and went with vertically retracting foils to take care of performance, stability, and shallow water issues.”

Hake scored points on those criteria, having produced a sail area/displacement ratio of 18.4, and displacement/length ratio of 113.2, both of which are considered on the fast side. In comparison, the Catalina 250 (wing-keel version) displaces 4,200 lbs. with 200 fewer pounds of ballast, to produce a SA/D ratio of 16.29 and a D/L ratio of 195. On paper, the Seaward has the speed edge.

The 26RK displaces 3,800 lbs., only 200 lbs. more than her predecessor. Weight, Hake said, is distributed throughout the boat and that doesn’t affect performance or balance.

The retractable keel is a NACA-designed, high-aspect, 8′-long section with 26″ wings attached to a bulb. It draws 6′ when fully deployed and only 2′ (the depth of the bulb) when raised. Its thin shape—the chord is only 15.5″—and low center of gravity, are nearly identical to longer, fixed-keel boats, so it produces excellent tacking ability, as we learned during our test sail.

“We chose a torpedo bulb on the keel to keep displacement low without compromising stability, and produced a lower center of gravity and improved stability. We also felt the bulb was necessary to keep stability high when the boat was sailed in shallow-water situations with the keel only partially extended,” Hake explained. This is another good change since, in shallow water with a typical dagger elevated, wind and surf might produce an unpleasant ride.

Lowering and retracting the 1,200-lb. keel is a simple matter of pulling one of two lines located on the cabintop near the cockpit. The lines are attached to a switch on a Rule Industries 20SS electrical motor with a 2,000-lb. lift capacity, all housed in a fiberglass box just beneath the mast. Rule’s standard product is equipped with a spring that could allow the keel to fall freely, but Hake’s employees modify the motor to prevent such an occurrence. Should the motor fail, Hake has devised two back-up plans for retracting or lowering the keel, one involving the use of a cordless drill to turn the winch motor.

We initially thought this arrangement of pulling lines to control an electrical switch was an antiquated, potentially faulty approach. However, like much of Hake’s thinking, it represents the utmost in simplicity. It’s a lot like the old system of pulling a string to switch on a light. Sure, a dedicated switch mounted near the cockpit and wired to the motor would be more tidy and convenient, but it would also invite the possibility of a future wiring failure. Hake’s solution may seem crude, but it’s effective.

The 26RK’s rudder continues that trend of functional simplicity. The stern-hung appendage can be adjusted up and down within its sheath. The leading edge of the rudder is a combination of carbon fiber and fiberglass. At the head of the rudder is a pin that prevents it from lifting out of the sheath in a following sea.

A byproduct of these retracting foils and subsequent shallow draft is the ease with which this boat can be launched at shallow ramps.

Deck Layout Excepting the keel motor box, deck clutter is limited to two sheets, two blocks, and three winches, with all lines led aft. Stainless steel ports that were fixtures on older boats have been replaced by plastic ports, a $1,250 cost saving. The shrouds extend to the cabintop, producing tighter sheeting angles as well as easier movement forward and aft. Stainless-steel handrails set on the cabintop fore and aft of the shroud bases, and double lifelines contribute to the safety element.

The mainsheet is led from the end of the boom to an athwartships track at the base of the companionway, rather than on the cabintop. This produces good sheeting angles, but it’s a stretch for the helmsperson to reach with the traveler eased. The Andersen headsail winches—set midway along the cockpit coaming, are closer by. The halyards are led on the cabintop to Ronstan rope clutches that sit forward of an Andersen winch.

In the cockpit, the starboard locker is 28″ deep, 34″ wide, and more than 6′ long, adequate for storing miscellaneous gear and a spinnaker. And Hake allowed space for a 6-gallon fuel tank under the starboard cockpit seat; it is easily removable when the time comes to fill ‘er up.

The sail plan on the 26RK is supported by an uncomplicated, deck-stepped, fractional rig with single spreaders that is designed to be easily raised for sailing away. As Hake says, “We build our boats for mature owners who want to step aboard and go sailing without worrying about the technical stuff.” We didn’t step or unstep the spar during our test, but in our review of the Seaward 25, we did question that the backstay is attached to just one side of the transom. “The boat will sail well without a backstay, anyway,” Hake told us, adding that the mast is so stiff that bending it is not an option. Regarding the strength issue, he provided photos of a 26RK suspended aloft from a crane with lines attached to bow and stern pulpits.

Accommodations A fully equipped version of this 26-footer offers seating/dining space for four adults, a galley, and modest head, and berths for four that are more than 6 feet long. Headroom is approximately 5′ 10″ throughout the interior.

“Belowdecks, we wanted creature comforts for a couple, or a young family,” said Hake. “We try to use every inch of space and design the interior so everything can fit. Everything can be removed and the interior hosed out for cleaning.”

Hake frees space in the main cabin by hanging the dining table on the bulkhead. It’s not an original idea, however, having to work around the keel trunk, which sits center stage, was a challenge. He cleverly attached the forward end of the table to a stainless steel rod affixed to the bulkhead. The 34″-long table is lowered and then rotated amidships to create dining space on both sides of the cabin. It works well, and spans much of the 5′ space amidships between the settee backs.

Counter space in the galley is 48″ long if the sink cover and oven top are used as working surfaces; additionally, the ice box top doubles as a cutting board. Opposite the galley, the head compartment measures 32″ wide x 40″ long; not spacious, but appropriate for a boat this size.

Getting this boat fully equipped, however, comes at a price. Since the company is attempting to broaden its market to include first-time buyers and the less affluent, living spaces are offered a la carte. In lieu of a privacy curtain, a teak door and bulkhead that enclose the forward berth will add $1,000 to the base price; a privacy door on the head adds $200, and a portable marine head $375. Additionally, an Origo single-burner stove will increase the cost of the galley by $300, and the stainless steel ports are a $1,250 option.

This boat does suffer a paucity of bulk storage space (unless the aft quarterberth is used for that purpose).

Construction With minor exceptions, Hake’s construction methods remain unchanged since our review of the Seaward 25. The lamination schedule for the hull includes a vinylester gelcoat, 1.5-oz. chop-strand mat and isophthalic polyester resin applied with a chopper gun. “I know some people don’t like that, but it’s an effective way of assuring that there’s resin on both sides of the strands,” says Hake. “The second step introduces 40-oz. triaxial cloth. While we use Coremat in the flat runs of the hull to provide stiffness, most of the hull is solid glass.”

The interior pan is a solid fiberglass structural member that is vacuum-bonded to the deck. Extra laminations are added in potentially high-stress areas where the hull and keel trunk meet, and where the hull and deck meet.

The hull-to-deck joint—shaped like an inverted “J”—is chemically and mechanically fastened using stainless machine screws every six inches and a proprietary putty. “It doesn’t leak because of the accuracy of our tooling and the bonding materials,” Hake said.

The deck, which is cored with Divinycell foam, follows a similar schedule. Deck hardware is tapped into 1/8″ aluminum plates bedded into the fiberglass lamination, a strong method that is becoming more standard in the industry. Chainplates are mechanically and chemically fastened as well. A 3″-wide stainless steel strap penetrates the coachroof and is carried down to the hull, where it is attached to a stainless rod.

The fiberglass outer skin of the keel contains a core of resin and 1,000 lbs. of lead, which is poured in place.

Performance We sailed the 26RK in 10 to 15 knots of wind on the Chesapeake Bay. In the process, we also introduced a total neophyte to sailing and reaffirmed that, at its elemental level, sailing is relatively uncomplicated.

The cockpit proved to be large enough for four adults, with sail controls located so that the boat could be singlehanded if necessary. Though we found steering while seated on the stern-rail seats comfortable, it puts the helmsperson at too great a distance from the sail controls.

With approximately 10 knots of wind, and a full main and 110% headsail deployed, the boat easily sailed through the short chop on the bay, and pointed to within 40 degrees of the apparent wind. Our handheld GPS registered boat speeds between 4.5 and 5.5. knots over the ground. Easing sheets, the speed increased to the mid-6 range, and we registered a 7-knot run for several minutes.

When the wind increased to 14 knots, we tucked a reef in the main, which reduced heel and increased comfort while maintaining the same speed.

As advertised, one advantage of sailing a trailerable boat is the ability to maneuver in shoal waters. This became clear when we ran aground. Floating the boat was a simple matter of pulling a string in the cockpit, which raised the keel. When operating in shallow water, raising the rudder is also simple; you remove a pin, lift the foil to the proper depth, and replace the pin.

Finally, to confirm her maneuverability, we eased sheets completely, pulled the tiller hard over, and she spun on her keel, sailing in circles the diameter of her own length.

Our principal criticisms pertain to the size of the mainsail, and the headsail furling system. Light-air performance aboard the 26RK would improve with additional area in the mainsail, and that could easily be achieved if the tack were lowered or more roach area was added. Hake Yachts’ Sales Manager Dave Brady told us that most owners are content to sacrifice light-air performance for the ability to defer reefing when the wind really pipes up, but he also mentioned that custom sails remain an option.

The Schaefer headsail furler elevates the tack of the jib at least 12″ off the deck. That’s good for visibility from the helm, but it also sacrifices sail area, keeping the boat from reaching its full potential when going to weather. Hake attributes the use of that brand of furler to the fact that the unit is mounted on a levered tang that eases hoisting the mast. At this writing, he is considering the use of a CDI furler as an alternative. We’d also want to add a vang to get better mainsail shape off the wind.

The standard sails are manufactured by Super Sails, a Florida loft that Hake has used for 20 years. “They know our boats so well,” said Hake, “that the sails come out exactly to the specified dimensions.”

Pricing The base price of the boat is $29,950, including mainsail and 110-percent jib, standing and running rigging, bowsprit, and anchor roller. Surprisingly, this price is $5,000 less than the company charged for its 25-footer. Hake explained: “Price-wise, we wanted the boat to be competitive with the mix of entry level boats currently on the market, without compromising our hard-earned reputation for quality. To that end, we decided to offer the boat with a low (for us) base price so that a young family just starting out could have a Seaward now, and perhaps add some of the bells and whistles later, as their bank account grew.”

Interestingly, that approach differs from many manufacturers, who are adding to their bottom line by including many high-margin options in their base boats. A Seaward 26RK equipped with a Yanmar diesel ($7,500), rather than an outboard, galvanized tandem-axle steel trailer with surge brakes ($3,800), wheel steering, instruments, portable head, Origo stove, and a CDI furler, would list for almost $50,000.

We think Hake’s pricing strategy makes sense in this market since it allows the neophyte or budget-conscious sailor to manage the size of the expenditure, while affluent sailors can add all of the amenities they like. A small company like this, making just three models, does well to utilize that kind of flexibility.

Conclusions This is the second PS review of a Seaward sailboat; we think the 26RK is a much better buy than the earlier 25-foot model, especially since the company has managed to maintain essentially the same price for more boat.

This boat reflects a thoughtful approach to design that increases user comfort, though its sail plan may disappoint more performance-minded sailors. The additional space in the cockpit and waterline length are a plus, especially since they add only 200 lbs. to the displacement. And we think owners of the 26RK will be pleased at the boat’s ability to gunkhole in bodies of water where deeper draft vessels would be restricted.

Hake has succeeded in cramming reasonable creature comforts into a small area, so crew can sit comfortably when at anchor.

And he has come to grips with construction quality issues by publicly giving employees demerits for poor workmanship, and by using conventional construction methods to produce solid structures.

We also see the use of a la carte pricing as a plus. Since engine beds are part of the mold, a diesel could replace an outboard; and other retrofits could be accomplished just as easily. Plus, given the choice between spending more money on options or taking a credit for the sail inventory in order to buy a bigger mainsail, for example, offers additional flexibility for the prospective buyer.

True, the current glut of used 25- to 30-foot boats on the market provides buyers the opportunity to achieve the goal of boat ownership for significantly fewer dollars than Hake is charging for the 26RK. But considering the quality of this boat and its potential for high resale value, we’d recommend that buyers in the market for a trailerable cruiser seriously check it out.

Contact – Hake Yachts, 772-287-3200, www.seawardyachts.com .

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I really appreciate the no nonsense approach in your evaluation and testing of sailboats and gear. I’m planning to purchase a pocket cruiser in the near future (my last sailboat was a 1987 Pearson 27 – a fine boat!) and look forward to future reviews as I narrow down my choices.

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PRE-OWNED TIARA EXPERTS!

Model Year :     2009

Current Price:     $49,500

Located in:     Naples, Florida

Hull Material:     Fiberglass

Designer             

Builder:     Seaward

L.O.A.:     26

Beam:     8'4"

Hull Design:     Lifting Keel with bulb

Manufacturer:      Yanmar

Model:    2YM15

H.P.     14

Engine / Fuel Type:     Four/Gas/Outbo

Fuel:    7 U.S. gallons 

Water:     20 U.S. gallons

FOR COMPLETE INFORMATION ON THIS BOAT PLEASE CLICK ON "SPECS & PHOTOS 

Brokers comments.

The Seaward 26RK is one of the most versatile "pocket cruisers" you will find. With her lifting keel offering draft from 15" to 6', inboard diesel, modern efficient sailplan, high aspect foils and roomy, comfortable interior, she is the complete package. And she is easily trailerable! 

This Seaward is a two-owner boat that has been meticulously maintained and is now available. 

Christopher Burkard   239.253.36

26 Seaward Sailaboat P.D.F. WITH FULL SPECS AND PHOTOS

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

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Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around!  It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel

Government Headquarters ("the White House")

Kievsky Railway Central

Novodevichy Convent

Luzhniki Stadium

Academy of Sciences

Monument to Peter I

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Moscow Kremlin

St.Basil's Cathedral

Novospassky Monastery

U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel

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