The 245 is frequently confused with its predecessor, the Seidelmann 24 (or 24-1), but the 245 features a more voluminous hull form and a revised deck mold that improved interior ergonomics. While the original 24 was a collaboration with Bruce Kirby and W. Ross, the 245 is more indicative of the Seidelmann "family look" seen in the larger 299 and 30 models. It was often marketed to sailors moving up from one-design dinghies who required a boat capable of overnighting without sacrificing the "feel" of a responsive racing hull.
Sailing Performance & Handling
On the water, the Seidelmann 245 is defined by its responsiveness, a direct result of Bob Seidelmann’s background in high-performance sailmaking. The boat typically features a fractional rig, which allows for significant mast bend and headstay tension control, giving the helmsperson more tools to depower the boat in heavy air compared to a traditional masthead rig. This technical setup appeals to sailors who enjoy active trimming.
The hull design utilizes a relatively flat bottom and a fin keel, which aids in lift and tracking while sailing upwind. Technical specifications suggest a Displacement/Length ratio that leans toward the lighter side of the cruiser spectrum, meaning the 245 accelerates quickly in light-to-moderate air. Owners frequently report that the boat feels "stiff" and carries its sail area well into the mid-teens before requiring a reef. However, like many New Jersey-built boats of this era with high-aspect rudders, the 245 can become "stalled" if pushed too hard in a gust, requiring the sailor to ease the traveler to maintain steerage. While no specific Sail Magazine archives currently host a dedicated digital retrospective of the 245, contemporary accounts from the era highlight its ability to punch above its weight class in PHRF (Performance Handicap Racing Fleet) fleets.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a vessel under 25 feet, the Seidelmann 245 offers a surprisingly functional layout, benefiting from the increased beam compared to the narrower Kirby-designed 24. The interior is characterized by a traditional "open plan" that maximizes the perception of space. It typically features a V-berth forward, followed by a chemical or marine head (depending on the original buyer's specification) tucked under a privacy curtain or bulkhead.
The main salon consists of two longitudinal settees that double as berths, with a small galley area located near the companionway for ventilation. Headroom is approximately 5'6" to 5'8", which is generous for a boat of this size but still requires a "stoop" for taller sailors. A key variation in the 245 line involved the keel depth; while the deep fin was standard for performance-oriented owners, a shallow-draft version was produced to cater to the thin-water sailors of the Chesapeake Bay and the Jersey Shore. The 245 shares much of its DNA with the Seidelmann 25—an earlier model—but the 245's interior trim often moved toward more teak veneers and molded fiberglass liners, which provided a cleaner look and easier maintenance than the carpet-lined interiors of the mid-70s.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a Seidelmann 245 should approach the vessel with an eye toward the common pitfalls of 1980s fiberglass construction. While the hulls are generally robust, three specific areas require scrutiny:
- Deck Core Integrity: The balsa-cored decks are prone to moisture intrusion, particularly around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step. Any "sponginess" underfoot is a sign of delamination that may require an expensive core replacement.
- Rudder Construction: The rudders on Seidelmann boats were often built in two halves and bonded together. Over time, water can seep into the seam, causing the internal foam to saturate and the internal steel structure to corrode. Buyers should check for "weeping" of rusty water from the rudder blade when the boat is hauled out.
- The "Seidelmann Smile": Like many fin-keel boats of this era, a hairline crack can develop at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often cosmetic, a deep crack may indicate that the keel bolts need tightening or that the structural floors have been stressed by a previous grounding.
- Rigging Tension: Because the 245 uses a fractional rig designed for tuning, the chainplates and bulkhead attachments undergo significant stress. Ensure the bulkheads are still firmly tabbed to the hull and show no signs of movement or rot.
Community & Resources
Owners of the 245 are supported by a legacy of enthusiast-led documentation. The most prominent hub is the Seidelmann Owners Group, which maintains a repository of manual scans and rig specifications. While the builder ceased operations in 1986, the technical drawings and sail plans are often discussed on specialized forums like CruisersForum and SailNet, where former employees and long-term owners provide advice on parts compatibility with other New Jersey makes like Hunter or O'Day.
The Verdict
The Seidelmann 245 is a quintessential "sailor’s sailboat," offering a level of rig sophistication and hull speed that outclasses many of its more sluggish cruising contemporaries. It is an ideal entry-level boat for those who value performance over standing headroom.
Pros:
- Excellent light-air performance and responsiveness.
- Fractional rig allows for advanced sail shaping and tuning.
- More interior volume and "big boat" feel than the earlier Seidelmann 24.
- Active used market makes it an affordable entry into club racing.
Cons:
- Prone to deck core issues if hardware was not re-bedded regularly.
- Limited headroom for tall sailors.
- The rudder design requires periodic inspection for saturation and internal corrosion.
