Seaward Eagle Information, Review, Specs

The Seaward Eagle made its debut in 1996, emerging from the design talents of Nick Hake, who also served as the president of Hake Yachts, Inc. The model represented a significant development, building upon the company's earlier fixed-keel Eagle. A hallmark of Seaward Yachts, and a central feature of the Eagle, is its innovative retractable keel system, offered as an alternative to the fixed keel. This design allows for a remarkably shallow minimum draft of 1.67 feet when fully retracted, expanding cruising horizons to include coves and anchorages that are off-limits to many other sailboats. Hake's manufacturing ethos, maintained throughout the brand's history, emphasized solid fiberglass construction for both the hull and deck. The lifting-keel trunk is notably well-integrated into the boat's overall layout, minimizing its impact on the interior space.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Seaward Eagle is characterized by a design that prioritizes both performance and the unique advantages of shallow-water capability. With a reported sail area of 480 square feet and a displacement of 7,700 pounds, the boat achieves a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 19.5. This relatively high ratio suggests that the Seaward Eagle is a capable performer in lighter wind conditions, able to move efficiently even when breezes are gentle.

Its Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Bal/D) stands at around 39% (3,000 lbs ballast in 7,700 lbs displacement), indicating moderate stiffness and a good ability to stand up to a breeze without excessive heeling. The Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) is approximately 120, placing the Seaward Eagle firmly in the category of lighter, more performance-oriented cruisers. This suggests a nimble and responsive vessel that is less burdened by weight, contributing to its lively performance. The hull itself is described as "slimmer than 58% of all other designs," pointing to a slightly more speedy hull form chosen by designer Nick Hake. Owners and reviewers often describe the Eagle as a genuine shoal-draft, lifting-keel sloop rather than a motorsailer, emphasizing its sailing prowess.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its emphasis on performance and shallow draft, the Seaward Eagle provides a carefully considered and comfortable interior. The design incorporates a molded GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) liner, which forms the basis of the interior structure. Owners can expect a cabin that is "very nicely detailed," featuring laminated teak joiner accents that contribute to a warm and traditional nautical aesthetic. The layout has been thoughtfully balanced to maximize comfort and usability within its hull parameters. While specific details on the exact configuration of berths, galley, and head vary, the general design principles of Seaward boats suggest practical arrangements suitable for cruising. The integration of the lifting-keel trunk is particularly well-executed, with its impact on the interior layout being negligible.