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Varianta 18
Designer: Judel/Vrolijk  ·  Builder: Dehler (Ger)  ·  First built: 2009
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About the Varianta 18

A compact and nimble daysailer, the Varianta 18 is a Swedish-designed small keelboat that has earned a following among sailors seeking an accessible and rewarding on-the-water experience. Built with simplicity and ease of handling in mind, this little vessel is well suited to sheltered coastal and inland waters, making it an appealing choice for beginner sailors, families, and experienced sailors looking for a low-maintenance weekend boat. The Varianta 18's design prioritizes stability and manageable performance, offering a forgiving sail plan that rewards good technique without overwhelming newcomers to the sport. Its compact footprint keeps ownership costs reasonable, from mooring fees to maintenance, while still delivering genuine sailing pleasure. The boat is often found racing in one-design fleets in Scandinavia, where its class association has helped sustain an active and enthusiastic community. For anyone researching an entry-level keelboat that balances affordability, fun, and a degree of competitive potential, the Varianta 18 represents a practical and charming option worth serious consideration.

Core Dimensions
LOA (Length Overall) 18.86 ft / 5.75 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 15.68 ft / 4.78 m
Beam 7.87 ft / 2.40 m
Max Draft 3.77 ft / 1.15 m
Displacement 1,653.47 lb / 750 kg
Ballast 529.11 lb / 240 kg
Ballast Type Cast iron
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/bulb and transom hung rudder
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction FG
Designer judel/vrolijk
Builder Dehler (Ger)
First Built 2009
Last Built 2014
Number Built 299
Related Sailboats ["Vx One" · "Melges 19" · "Weta 44" · "Flying Scot" · "Squib"]
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Known Issues & What to Watch For

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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
32.0
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
191.47
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. 2.64 pounds/inch
Rig Dimensions
I (Foretriangle Height) 26.54
J (Foretriangle Base) 5.91 ft / 1.80 m
P (Mainsail Luff) 231.42 ft² / 21.50 m²
E (Mainsail Foot) 191.47
How It Compares

vs. Flying Scot, Melges 19, Weta 44

This boat Similar boats
Dimensions
LOA
Varianta 18 ★
18.9 ft
Flying Scot
19.0 ft
Melges 19
19.0 ft
Weta 44
19.0 ft
LWL
Varianta 18 ★
15.7 ft
Flying Scot
18.5 ft
Melges 19
Weta 44
Beam
Varianta 18 ★
7.9 ft
Flying Scot
6.8 ft
Melges 19
6.5 ft
Weta 44
11.5 ft
Displacement
Varianta 18 ★
1 lbs
Flying Scot
850 lbs
Melges 19
395 lbs
Weta 44
264 lbs
Sail Area
Varianta 18 ★
Flying Scot
191 sq ft
Melges 19
198 sq ft
Weta 44
123 sq ft
Performance
SA / Displacement (higher = more powerful)
Varianta 18 ★
Flying Scot
34.1
Melges 19
58.9
Weta 44
48.1
Capsize Screening (lower = safer)
Varianta 18 ★
Flying Scot
2.85
Melges 19
3.55
Weta 44
Displacement / Length (lower = lighter)
Varianta 18 ★
191
Flying Scot
59
Melges 19
Weta 44
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