US 18 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the US 18's design lineage is rooted in established small sailboat architecture. Its design, attributed to G. William McVay, was adapted by Bayliner and is noted to be derived from the Paceship Mouette 19 and shares similarities with the Buccaneer 180. The Mouette 19, also designed by McVay, was built by Paceship Yachts Ltd. between 1964 and 1975, setting a precedent for this style of small, versatile sailboat. Production of the US 18 began in 1980, coinciding with or shortly following Bayliner's strategic shift away from sailboat manufacturing in 1979, where the molds for their sailing vessels were often passed on to continue production.

During Bayliner's tenure in the sailboat market, which spanned roughly a decade from 1970 to 1979, the company, founded by J. Orin Edson, prioritized offering high-quality, affordable boats. Their approach to sailboat design often diverged from pure performance, instead emphasizing interior amenities and family-friendly layouts, sometimes utilizing "splashed" copies of existing designs. The US 18, with its adaptable design and lightweight construction, fits well within this ethos of producing accessible and practical small cruisers and day sailors. Its design, featuring a fractional sloop rig and a wing keel, reflects a focus on ease of handling and trailerability, making it a convenient option for quick trips to the water. The variable draft, from a minimum of 0.67 feet to a maximum of 3.2 feet, further confirms its design for easy launching and retrieval from a trailer.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The US 18 is characterized as an ultralight sailboat, capable of very high performance for its size. Despite its light displacement of 525 pounds, it is noted for being stable and stiff, though it possesses a low righting capability if capsized, a characteristic typical of very light displacement boats. With a length overall of 17.58 feet and a waterline length of 15.58 feet, it achieves a hull speed of approximately 5.29 knots. Its fractional sloop rig, featuring a reported sail area of 134 square feet, provides ample power for spirited sailing.

The inclusion of a wing keel, which is likely a swing or retractable design given the significant difference between its minimum and maximum draft, greatly enhances its versatility. This feature allows the US 18 to navigate shallow waters and be easily trailered, broadening its appeal to sailors who value convenience. Anecdotal accounts and videos of the US 18 sailing suggest it handles well in varying conditions, responding capably to moderate to fresh breezes. Its design lends itself to a lively sailing experience, suitable for those looking for an engaging day sailor.

Accommodations and Layout

As a sailboat primarily designed for day sailing and trailerability, the US 18 offers a functional, albeit minimalist, interior layout. While specific headroom details are not available, it is understood that standing headroom would not be a feature on a boat of this size. The cabin typically provides basic shelter and storage, often featuring a V-berth forward, which can serve as a sleeping area for one or two, or as additional storage space.

Given its heritage and the common practices for small sailboats of its era, the interior likely features simple, robust fiberglass finishes. Storage would be limited to under-berth compartments. Ventilation would primarily rely on a forward hatch and the main companionway. The design prioritizes a large and open cockpit for comfortable sailing and socializing above deck, with the cabin serving as a functional, weather-protected space for gear and a brief respite from the elements.