Seaward 46 RK Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Seaward 46 RK are defined by its high-aspect-ratio foils and an efficient sail plan. Unlike many shoal-draft boats that rely on heavy, inefficient wing keels or centerboards that offer little lift, the 46 RK employs a 13,000-pound lead-torpedo bulb on a vertically lifting strut. When fully deployed, the boat exhibits the stiffness and tracking of a modern performance cruiser. According to an editorial review in Sail Magazine, the boat remains remarkably balanced even in gusty conditions, thanks in large part to its twin-rudder configuration. These rudders are positioned outboard to maintain a grip on the water even when the boat is heeled, a design necessity for a vessel that can sail with its keel partially retracted.

The helm is typically light, providing tactile feedback that is often lost in heavier displacement cruisers. Because the keel can be set at any depth between its two extremes, sailors can "tune" the boat’s draft to the conditions—extending it fully for upwind beats to minimize leeway and raising it for downwind runs to reduce drag. The technical trade-off for this versatility is the mechanical complexity of the lift system, which uses a high-capacity electric winch and a heavy-duty stainless steel strap system to move the massive ballast.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Seaward 46 RK is characterized by a bright, "deck-salon" feel, necessitated by the structural requirements of the keel trunk. Rather than obstructing the living space, the keel housing is integrated into the cabinetry, often serving as a divider between the galley and the salon. The use of American cherry or teak joinery combined with numerous opening ports and hatches creates an airy, upscale environment. The standard configuration features a master stateroom forward with an island queen berth and a private head, while the guest accommodations are located aft.

Variations in the 46 RK often center on the aft cabin and storage arrangements. While some hulls were built with a traditional two-cabin, two-head layout to maximize storage for long-term cruising, others feature a three-cabin configuration to accommodate larger families. The galley is typically linear and situated to starboard, providing excellent bracing for the cook while underway. Because these boats were often semi-custom builds, interior finishes vary based on the original owner’s specifications, though all maintain the high headroom—exceeding 6 feet 4 inches in most areas—that has become a hallmark of the larger Seaward models.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Seaward 46 RK should focus their inspection on the specialized mechanical systems that make the boat unique. While the hull and deck are traditionally robust, the complexity of the retractable keel is the primary area of concern.

• Keel Lift System: The stainless steel lift strap and the electric winch mechanism require regular inspection. Buyers should look for signs of fraying in the strap or corrosion in the winch motor. It is essential to cycle the keel through its full range of motion during a survey to check for any binding or unusual vibrations.
• Keel Trunk Seals: While the trunk is designed to be watertight, the "kelp guards" or brushes at the bottom of the trunk can wear out, leading to increased turbulence or noise while sailing.
• Twin Rudder Alignment: The dual-rudder system utilizes a linkage that must be perfectly synchronized. Any "play" in the steering may indicate worn bushings or a need for alignment in the tie-rods.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the 46 RK uses a cored deck. High-load areas around the jib tracks and windlass should be checked with a moisture meter to ensure no water ingress has occurred around the fittings.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 46 RK benefit from a dedicated and technically-minded community. The Seaward Squadron is the primary association for Hake Yachts owners, offering a repository of technical manuals, modification ideas, and organized rallies. Since the brand was folded into the Hake Marine group alongside Island Packet, technical support and parts for the keel lift systems can often be sourced through Island Packet Yachts, which continues to provide factory-level insight into the Nick Hake designs.

The Verdict

The Seaward 46 RK is a niche masterpiece for the sailor who refuses to choose between offshore performance and the ability to "beach" a 46-foot yacht. It is particularly well-suited for the thin waters of the Bahamas, the Florida Keys, or the Chesapeake Bay.

Pros:

• Unrivaled draft versatility (2'5" to 7'0") for a boat of this size.
• Excellent heavy-weather stability with the keel fully deployed.
• High-quality interior joinery and a bright, airy salon.
• Twin rudders provide exceptional control and redundancy.

Cons:

• The retractable keel mechanism adds significant maintenance requirements.
• The keel trunk occupies a central portion of the interior volume.
• Higher price point on the used market compared to fixed-keel production boats.