Floatation

[BendLure]

Hello all, and happy New Year! I have a 1998 SeaCraft 23'. (I know - It's not a classic).

My question: What is the floation like in this hull when swamped? They say boston whalers are unsinkable. How are SeaCraft when swamped or filled by a busted livewell hose? Anyone been swamped offshore or inshore?

Thanks as always!

[JohnB]

I believe the CG requires enough floatation in them to float if they swamp. From what I have seen, especially in CC boats with tops, they tend to "turtle". That is roll over, and they can float a long time like that. The liner in these acts like a second boat within a boat, but given enough water and time, they probably will sink.
I have a 88 Sceptre, and had a major plumbing malfunction, and water was coming out of the drain in the cabin. I fixed the malfuction, closed the seacock, and the pumps took care of the rest. A high water alarm is a cheap item, that few use, and I highly recommend them. Knowing you have excessive water in the bilge while the problem is managable is a better plan, then dealing with it when it is out of control.

[htillman]

I had a 20 that we broached and it did exactly what John said, it turtled and floated for a long time.

[1bayouboy]

I think the only way to prevent it would be to add a lot of flotation right under the gunnels....possibly even high up in the cabin or CC. Seems like I/Os or inboards would be less prone. I was thinking of molding some foam pieces and glueing then under the gunnels.

[JohnB]

Capt Reality here...
If I am out in my boat, and I hit something, and it turtles, but stays up for 4-8 hours, great. Very few boats of this size sink like a rock. The gas tank alone, has a huge amount of bouancy associated with it, and the liner in these boats is almost a second hull. I have an epirb and a satilite radio in my it's gone horribly wrong bag, and they should be able to fish me out of the water before the boat sinks. In most cases, your going to die of hypothermia/exposure, before that boat is going to sink. If I was going to add something, go with a portable inflatable life raft to keep me out of the water, not foam.

[Fr. Frank]

If I was going to add something, go with a portable inflatable life raft to keep me out of the water

Even one of those $12 WalMart three person PVC rafts would be an aid. They inflate fairly easily, too. Not as good in a sudden capsize, though.