Seaworthiness of 20' SeaCraft...

[EarToTheWater]

Originally Posted by kmoose

So we don't get carried away.... In a real, storm pushed following 6' seas (measured at the center of the wave) any and I mean ANY 20' and possibly 23' foot boat can be in very serious trouble. This is especially so with CCs that can take on so much water if the bow goes in that swamp and roll is possible.

I think making recommendations for sea states that a 20' boat is capable of safely negotiating is subjective at best.

I compare being offshore to drifting a car. No matter how good you are you are still trying to control a wreck. I agree that there are far to many variables to consider to really nail it down, but I also think there is much to be gained from a healthy discussion! The more people chime in the more I'm thinking your right keep it in the 0-3' maybe 4' depending on interval, wind, long term forecast etc otherwise don't head out. Thanks for sharing your experience!

[76Red18]

I think the t top on my 18 is it's most limiting attribute. In a windy enough situation and caught in a trough, she would broach for sure. An 18 or a 20 with no top, an enclosed transom or splash board, properly designed scuppers, a light motor and load would be hard to stop.
You can't push the open transom issue enough...probably the factor that led to the recent tragedy. That 18 had an open transom with no board.