After the first four history pages were published, a few examples of a version of the Skipper/Mariner 17 with fixed bilge keels came to my attention. This version might have the potential advantage that more ballast could have been put in the wider keels, so that the boat may feel much ‘stiffer’ than the pivoting-plate versions. However, the rarity of this version shows that for some reason it was not a commercial success compared with other bilge keel marques that were popular in the late1970s, such as the twitchy Pirate 17 and the staid Leisure 17.
In common with all bilge-keel yachts, this version is not ideal for the trailer-sailor because of the difficulty of hauling-out on to its trailer.
