Designed by renowned French naval architect Marc Lombard and first launched in 2008, this compact 18-footer represents a thoughtful approach to small boat performance sailing. The Speed Feet 18 Cb combines modern design principles with practical functionality through its lifting keel configuration, allowing access to shallow waters while maintaining respectable sailing performance in deeper conditions.
The boat's fractional sloop rig and generous sail area of 253 square feet deliver spirited performance for coastal sailing and day racing. With a sail area to displacement ratio of 42.68, this lightweight 926-pound vessel offers impressive acceleration and responsiveness in light to moderate conditions. The lifting keel design is particularly advantageous for trailer sailing, beach launching, and exploring shallow coastal waters where fixed-keel boats cannot venture.
Marc Lombard's design philosophy emphasizes clean lines and efficient hull shapes, evident in this boat's ability to achieve a theoretical hull speed of 5.69 knots despite its compact dimensions. The fiberglass construction ensures durability while keeping maintenance requirements reasonable. Best suited for coastal cruising, day sailing, and club racing, the Speed Feet 18 Cb appeals to sailors seeking performance-oriented sailing in a trailerable package that doesn't compromise on sailing characteristics.
SA/Displacement
Sail Area to Displacement ratio measures how much sail power a boat has relative to its weight. Higher values mean more performance and speed.
Under 14 — Heavy cruiser, slow14–18 — Cruising sailboat18–22 — Cruiser/racerOver 22 — Performance racer
42.68
Displacement/Length
Displacement to Length ratio measures how heavy a boat is relative to its waterline length. Lower values mean a lighter, faster boat.
Under 100 — Ultralight racer100–200 — Light cruiser/racer200–300 — Moderate cruiser300–400 — Heavy cruiserOver 400 — Very heavy
70.88
Comfort Ratio
Ted Brewer's Comfort Ratio predicts how comfortable a boat will feel in offshore conditions. Higher values mean a steadier, more comfortable motion in a seaway.
Under 20 — Uncomfortably rough20–30 — Acceptable coastal30–40 — Good offshore comfortOver 40 — Very comfortable offshore
4.85
Capsize Screening Formula
The USHS Capsize Screening Formula estimates offshore capsize risk. Lower is safer — values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing.
Under 2.0 — Safe for offshore2.0–2.2 — Borderline offshoreOver 2.2 — Coastal use recommended
3.35
Hull Speed
Hull Speed is the theoretical maximum speed of a displacement hull, calculated from waterline length. Most cruising sailboats reach this speed in moderate conditions.
5.69 kn
Pounds/Inch Immersion
Pounds per Inch Immersion (PPI) tells you how much weight is needed to sink the boat one inch. Useful for calculating how additional gear and stores affect waterline.
524.82 pounds/inch
How It Compares
vs. Condor 55, Gem 550, Microsail Mull, Neptune 550, Speed Feet 18 Keel