C&C 32' Centerboard Model

I am currently looking at a used C&C 32' which has a centerboard..

...does anyone have any experience sailing a C&C boat, equipped with a centerboard???

...I realize the obvious advantages for gunkholing and being able to go places a keel boat wouldn't...but am concerned with overall sailing performance and the ability of this design to point, versus one with a traditional keel........

Your comments are appreciated..

Bob

 

I have a friend who had a C&C 36 with a centerboard. I can't make comparisons with what the boat might be with a keel, but it sails very well. He has had trouble with the centerboard getting caught in the slot. I'm not sure of the reason, but I suspect it is rust. There was also some water intrusion/core rot in the area around the centerboard pendant winch.

 

Bob,

I owned a 1985 C&C 33 CB that sailed extremely well, particularly upwind. It had an IOR type hull that certainly contributed to the upwind performance. After I faired the foils and added a folding prop and backstay adjusted it could outpoint all but the hardcore racers.

I did sail a ~1980 C&C 32 CB once. It was a totaly different animal - different feel altogether. It pointed as well as most cruisers, but seemed to prefer reaching. Nice boat, though. I got the impression that the construction was better than my 33.

On the C&C33CB, C&C increased the ballast by almost 2000 lb (!!) over the fin keel to get the same righting moment. This worked very well. I don't know if they did that on the 32.

I live on the Chesapeake Bay. I'd go for the centerboard any day.

Paul