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Swallow
Designer: Tom Thornycroft  ·  Builder: Abeking & Rasmussen  ·  First built: 1948
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About the Swallow

Designed with simplicity and accessibility in mind, the Swallow is a classic small sailboat that has earned a loyal following among sailors who value relaxed, enjoyable time on the water. Best suited to sheltered coastal waters, lakes, and inland waterways, it appeals particularly to beginners and family sailors looking for a forgiving and manageable vessel. While detailed specifications are limited, the Swallow's reputation centres on its approachable handling characteristics and straightforward rig, making it an ideal platform for those learning the fundamentals of sailing or simply seeking a low-maintenance boat for weekend leisure. Its modest size lends itself to easy trailering and launching, reducing the logistical burden that can accompany larger keelboats. For prospective buyers, the Swallow represents an entry point into sailing that doesn't demand significant technical expertise or a large budget. Used examples can offer excellent value, and the boat's unpretentious character means maintenance is rarely overwhelming. If you're searching for a sociable, unhurried sailing experience rather than offshore passages or competitive racing, the Swallow deserves a closer look.

Core Dimensions
LOA (Length Overall) 25.42 ft / 7.75 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 19.00 ft / 5.79 m
Beam 5.50 ft / 1.68 m
Max Draft 3.42 ft / 1.04 m
Displacement 2,253.00 lb / 1,022 kg
Ballast 1,340.00 lb / 608 kg
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin Keel
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction Wood/FG
Designer Tom Thornycroft
Builder Abeking & Rasmussen
First Built 1948
Number Built 90
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Performance Ratios
Ballast/Displacement Ballast to Displacement ratio shows what percentage of the boat's total weight is ballast. Higher values generally mean better initial stability and stiffer sail carrying.
30–35% — Typical cruiser35–45% — Stiff performance boatOver 45% — Racing oriented
59.48
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
146.64
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. 2.24 pounds/inch
Rig Dimensions
I (Foretriangle Height) 18.66
J (Foretriangle Base) 7.28 ft / 2.22 m
P (Mainsail Luff) 200.00 ft² / 18.58 m²
E (Mainsail Foot) 146.64
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