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  • Sailboat Guide

Sonar is a 22 ′ 11 ″ / 7 m monohull sailboat designed by Bruce Kirby and built by Rondar Raceboats, Shumway Marine, Seidelmann Yachts, Ontario Yachts, C. E. Ryder, and DS Yachts (Schwill Yachts) starting in 1980.

Drawing of Sonar

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

  • SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
  • D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

  • D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
  • LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

  • D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
  • LOA: Length overall in feet
  • Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

Commissioned by members of Noroton YC of Darien CT USA and first built by Seidelmann Yachts. A few were also built by Carbon Index in the UK. Current builder (2019) is Rondar Raceboats.

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Rondar Sonar Now a World Sailing Class!

  • Sparkling Performance
  • Self draining cockpit
  • Deep keel for stability
  • Deep rudder for control in all weather
  • 75% fractional rig, Dacron Sails
  • Slipway Launch
  • Easy launch, easy tow, easy trailed
  • All the family can sail and race
  • Ideal for sail and race training
  • Low maintenance
  • Easily adaptable for all disabled sailors
  • Sail and storage bow cuddy
  • Race competitively with three or four crew.
  • The Sonar surfs and planes readily downwind.
  • Well-balanced, inboard rudder.
  • Faster than a J/24 in windy conditions.
  • Strict one-design rules.
  • Clean and uncluttered cockpit.
  • Small jib can be handled by nearly any size crew member.
  • Single jib, main, and spinnaker.
  • 7'10" beam for easy trailering.
  • 11'6" cockpit seats 8 comfortably.
  • Full-length molded bench seats with angled backs.
  • Self-bailing cockpit.
  • Lockable cuddy under the foredeck holds gear, or an outboard motor, even a small Porta Potti.
  • 900 lb. keel keeps the boat stable and dry.
Rondar Raceboats

+44 (0) 7811957649

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We have 10 Sonars to choose from: Queen Liz, Zoe V, Ellie, Laurie, Free Spirit, Escape, Happy Hours, Belle....

The Sonar offers something for everybody: it is a performance racer and a comfortable day-sailor, seating 5 adults.

The Sonar 23 is our primary teaching boat for beginners, and the boat we use for evening races. 

Learn to sail on a Sonar or rent a boat to enjoy the water!

The Sonar is a 7 m (23 ft) one-design keelboat for up to five people. It is Bermuda-rigged , with a large mainsail and a 100% jib . The class is recognized by the International Sailing Federation .

The Sonar was designed in 1979 by Bruce Kirby , designer of the popular Laser dinghy. Since then, over 800 boats have been built. Most of the fleet is in the USA, with smaller fleets in Britain and Canada.

Did you know?

The Sonar showcased disabled sailing at the 1996 Paralympic Games where the sport was a demonstration event with just the Sonar. She has been the three person keelboat at every subsequent Paralympics . The Sonar is well suited for disabled sailing because of its large open cockpit making adaptations easy.

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Port Sailing Sonar 23 Fleet

The most flexible sail boat, praised by beginners and racers alike.

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Sonar Fleet 23

The Nyack Boat Club has an active and growing fleet of Bruce Kirby-designed Sonars. Sonars are 23-foot-long high-performance keelboats designed with simple, efficient rigs to provide sparkling performance in reasonable comfort. These one-design sailboats can ghost along in light air, yet their deep keel and rudder make it equally comfortable when the wind pipes up and when it does, you'll be sitting on the "rail," very much aware there is no better boat to sail than on a Sonar.

The fleet's primary activity is Sunday afternoon club races run by our volunteer race committee and race patrollers. We race off our front porch, literally, 15 minutes from porch to starting line on the beautiful and historic Hudson River. Being a strict one-design class, the races are very competitive with every boat capable of "winning on any given Sunday", as they say. Our Sonar fleet (national fleet # 23) had a very successful, interesting, and competitive 2023 season. We're looking ahead to 2024 with enthusiasm. Not only are we looking forward to having another great year with most every boat on the line, we are excitedly going to learn and practice the growing sailing sport of team racing.

The races themselves can be very exciting, and it's certainly a big part of the fleet's appeal. But it's just as much the camaraderie of the fleet members that brings us back week after week. Each afternoon before racing we get together on the patio for coffee and donuts and discuss the highlights of our past week. We then launch and haul our boats as a group effort since they are dry-sailed. After the races have concluded and the boats are hauled, we go back to the patio, open the fleet cooler and unload drinks and snacks, and finish the day by discussing boat speed, mark roundings, and our next Sunday outing.

But it doesn't end there: Over the course of the year, we host several social functions ranging from BBQ's and lobster boils to axe-throwing outings to trips to museums. During the winter months, some members meet up to ski together in New York and Vermont. Anything fun is on the table with this fleet.

Perhaps you'd like to sail with us? If so, please contact David Zwerling at [email protected] , or leave us your contact information by clicking ' CONTACTS ', select 'Fleet Information or Crewing' as the topic, and fill out the form requesting a Sonar Fleet member reach out to you. You can learn more about Sonar itself at the Sonar Fleet Class Association website .

Click for our fleet directory.  (accessible only to club members)

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A BIG Thanks to those who attended our 2023 season Launch Party!

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Another Tight Downwind Leg

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All smiles on Sonar 461

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Team Tabasco putting the heat to the fleet

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Just sailing out to the course is fun!

Last updated 3:48pm on 4 July 2024

59 Gedney Street
Nyack
New York
10960
United States

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1978 Sonar Restoration by Shumway Marine

1978 Sonar Sailboat

1978 Sonar Sailboat – Awaiting Restoration

Late last fall we sold a 1978 Sonar to Skip Shumway of  Shumway Marine . The boat was in pretty tough shape. The blue gel coat had faded to a chalky hue. The black anodized mast had rubbed through to the bare aluminum. The rudder and keel were both a mess in each their own unique way, and the interior was pretty much shot.

We were certain that for the right buyer, though, we had a diamond in the rough. The Sonar is a great daysailer and racer, and we are glad to announce that this one is back!

Take a look at the after picture!

As the Shumway crew puts on the finishing touches, this boat is actively for sale. Interested ? Contact Shumway Marine through their contact page .

About Shumway Marine:

From delicate rowing shells to 65 foot yachts,  Shumway Marine  can repair it all. Our experienced craftsmen work with wood and fiberglass for  structural  or  cosmetic repairs .

Our  certified mechanics  work on Mercruiser, Yanmar, Westerbeke and Universal engines.   Electrical wiring  work and  custom rigging  are also available. We have two  40 ton hoists  and offer yacht loading and unloading for transport.

Restored 1978 Sonar Sailboat

1978 Sonar Sailboat – After

The  Paint Shop  can accomodate up to 45′ boats. Our painters are skilled in using  Awlgrip ,  Imron , and  gelcoat  for refinishing. Blister repair, bottom painting, and doll-ups are also done through our Paint Shop.

About the Sonar Sailboat:

The 23′ Sonar one-design keelboat is a high-performance racer and also a comfortable daysailor just right for getting the entire family or friends on the water together. It was designed by Bruce Kirby and almost 700 boats have been built since 1980. The Sonar has recently achieved status as an International Class.

Performance

  • Race competitively with three or four crew.
  • The Sonar surfs and planes readily downwind.
  • Well-balanced, inboard rudder
  • Faster than a J/24 in windy conditions.
  • Strict one-design rules.
  • Clean and uncluttered cockpit.
  • Small jib can be handled by nearly any size crew member.
  • Single jib, main, and spinnaker.
  • 7’10” beam for easy trailering.
  • 11’6″ cockpit seats 8 comfortably.
  • Full-length molded bench seats with angled backs.
  • Self-bailing cockpit.
  • Lockable cuddy under the foredeck holds gear, or an outboard motor, even a small Porta Potti.
  • 900 lb. keel keeps the boat stable and dry.

Origin of the Sonar:

“The Sonar may well be the best boat I’ve ever designed.” – Bruce Kirby

It started when Bruce Kirby’s home club (Noroton Yacht Club, Darien, CT USA) couldn’t find the right boat to get their members involved in club racing; fewer and fewer of its members were participating.

They studied a great many existing classes of boats but all were considered too expensive, too slow, too demanding to sail, or just plain uncomfortable. So Bruce was asked to design a new boat specifically to meet the requirements of a club racing one-design keelboat fleet.

sonar sailboat

The result was the Sonar. The Noroton Yacht Club got every thing they wanted and more. And the Sonar has been greeted with enthusiasm by individuals and clubs all over the world.

We buy boats:

Shoreline Sailboats always has an interest in buying used sailboats. If you have a boat for sale, contact us using the form below:

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When the Sonar was designed and orders were taken for the first fleet of boats at Noroton Yacht Club, in Darien, Connecticut, the original fleet members recognized a need to create an organization with a Constitution, By-laws and Class Rules that control the growth of the class. Early membership was just a few key people, but these people had a passion for this new and very special boat and their passion spread as new fleets sprang up around North America. Early membership grew at a rapid pace as boats were built. Sonars worldwide now number over 700 with fleets in over six countries.

The Sonar was selected as the three-person Paralympic keelboat beginning in 2000.

Membership in the organization is open to all who own or love to sail on Sonars. Becoming a member is easy, just go to the Membership page of this website where you will find all the information you will need and an online registration form.

Reasons to join the Sonar Class Association

Sonar starting line

Sonar starting line

  • Coordinate Sonar Events and communicate details to members through the website and email
  • Provide representation in US and World Sailing organizations
  • Safeguard Class assets (including scales, measurement templates/tools)  
  • Keep our website running
  • Get Sonar specific maintenance and racing tips  
  • Maintain the value of your Sonar as One-Design racer
  • Support member volunteers who organize fleets, set up regattas, publish results, measure boats, and otherwise contribute their time on behalf of all Sonar sailors  

Where do my Class dues go:

  • Pay an Administrator responsible for collecting membership and royalty tag fees, maintain membership information, administer the website, organize Class meetings, communicate with sailing governing bodies
  • Procure and maintain measurement equipment and when needed, ship the equipment to Championship venus  
  • Hosting  sonar.org
  • To create this great new website that will highlight the Sonar for current and potential owners

What would the Sonar be without the Sonar Class association?    Just another small day-sailing keelboat!

Click here to join the class association now.

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What kind of sailboat is a Sonar , and what are the features of this boat?

Sonars are a triple handed keelboat raced by both adaptive and able bodied sailors. The Sonar is used by sailors who enjoy a team mentality, who are often interested in racing in addition to cruising. The Sonar has a mileu of possible adaptions. Several are described below.

The video below shows both a transfer bench and an swiveling adapted Sonar seat (although the sound quality is poor),

The Sip and Puff joystick steering system is an option that helps individuals with limited mobility steer the Sonar. Find information on what a Sip and Puff system is, and where to purchase one.

Other adaptions include Stability bars and drop in seats are also used in tandem in the Sonar to help crew and skipper move from side to side as the boat sails.

Sonars also have different seating options, including:

  • Mid-Boat Seat : This seat is installed towards the center of the Sonar and is designed to accomodate individuals using Sip and Puff systems. The seat can be positioned from side to side using cleats.
  • Gimbaled Mid-Boat Seat : The gimbaled seat sits lower in the boat and swivels to keep the Skipper upright as the boat heels.
  • For general information, and to purchase a Sonar, visit Rondar Raceboats .
  • Other possible adaptions include changing the main sheet purchase and the location of the mainsheet block. Purchase adjustments are covered on page 50 of US Sailing's Adaptive Sailing Resource Manual .

Categories: Adaptive Resource Library Types of Boats

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Let us know if you have questions, or if a question has gone unanswered! We will endeavor to find an answer for you and your program.

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Sonar Parts

West Coast Sailing is your source for Sonar sailboat parts, rigging and accessories. The 23-foot Sonar is popular for its combination of comfort, speed, and ease of handling. This trailerable Bermuda rig, sailed by a crew of 3 to 5, seats up to 8 people and has a deep keel for stability. The Sonar's generous cockpit appealed to both disabled and able-bodied sailors. It became Europe's first Paralympic sailing class in 1996. The American Sailboat Hall of Fame inducted the Sonar in 2000 as a boat that is friendly to new sailors, exciting for club racers, and fun for day sailing. Shop Sonar sailboat parts, rigging, and accessories today with rigging guides, technical information, extensive selection, and fast shipping to help you get back out on the water.

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Harken 22 mm Traveler Car w/ Stand-Up Toggle

Harken 22 mm Traveler Car w/ Stand-Up Toggle

Harken 22 mm High-Beam Heavy Duty Track Ends

Harken 22 mm High-Beam Heavy Duty Track Ends

Harken Cam Cleat Swivel Base w/ 150 Aluminum Cam

Harken Cam Cleat Swivel Base w/ 150 Aluminum Cam

Harken 29 mm Carbo Triple Block w/ Becket

Harken 29 mm Carbo Triple Block w/ Becket

Harken 75 mm Rachet Cheek Block

Harken 75 mm Rachet Cheek Block

Harken Micro Cam Cleat H471

Harken Micro Cam Cleat H471

Harken 40 mm Carbo Fiddle Block H2655

Harken 40 mm Carbo Fiddle Block H2655

Harken Aluminum Cam Cleat H150

Harken Aluminum Cam Cleat H150

Ronstan Medium Cam Cleat (Grey)

Ronstan Medium Cam Cleat (Grey)

Harken 29 mm Single Block w/ Becket H341

Harken 29 mm Single Block w/ Becket H341

Harken 40 mm Single Block H2636

Harken 40 mm Single Block H2636

Ronstan 40 mm All Purpose Single Block

Ronstan 40 mm All Purpose Single Block

Ronstan 40 mm All Purpose Single Block w/ Becket

Ronstan 40 mm All Purpose Single Block w/ Becket

Harken 57 mm Ratchet Block H2135

Harken 57 mm Ratchet Block H2135

Frederiksen 60 mm Ratchet Block

Frederiksen 60 mm Ratchet Block

Harken 29 mm Triple Block H344

Harken 29 mm Triple Block H344

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Rigging diagram.

Use the diagram below to reference Harken part numbers to appropriate application on your Sonar sailboat. Parts recommendations are offered as a guide for common applications.

Jib Halyard Fine-Tune

This high-power jib halyard fine-tune allows you to tension the luff as the wind cranks up. When you need headstay sag to power up the jib in chop and light air, the fine-tune allows quick control over headstay tension, making it easier to insert mast chocks.

Mainsheet Bridle

Upgrading to a bridle can make your system self-tacking in 10-20 knots and downwind while reducing the adjustments needed in other wind ranges. Simply add a second low-friction Harken 2731 car and use Spectra® strops about 28 inches long. The length of the bridle straps is key so you can sheet in hard to center the boom without closing off the leach.

Jib Sheet Coarse/Fine-Tune

This hand-trimmed 6:1 system has a gross-trim for speed in quick tacks and a fine-tune for precise, fingertip control in any breeze.

Diagram provided by Harken. West Coast Sailing is an approved seller of Harken sailboat hardware.

Looking for other sailboat parts or gear? We can help!

General Parts & Hardware - We offer a huge selection of  General Parts  including hardware, blocks, cleats, shackles, accessories and more here .

Line - Great options for halyards, sheets, control lines, and rigging in a wide range of diameters and materials available on our Line page .

Apparel & Accessories - We also offer large range of Apparel and Accessories from all of your favorite sailing brands.

Product Suggestions - If you're looking for a specific part for your Sonar sailboat that you cannot find, let us know. We are actively working to expand our one design parts offering and welcome your input for parts you think we should be stocking to make it easier for you to get back out on the water. Submit you idea via our Product Suggestion Form   (opens in new tab).

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    Draft:  4.5'
    Beam:  8.5'    Draft:  4.5'
    Beam:  7.8'    Draft:  3.9'
    Beam:  7'    Draft:  3'

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Aerial, underwater searches for missing kayaker on Green Lake continue

by Scott Hurley, FOX 11 News

Green Lake in Green Lake, July 29, 2024 (WLUK/Eric Peterson)

GREEN LAKE (WLUK) -- Daily drone and sonar searches continue more than a week after a kayaker was reported missing on Green Lake.

Sheriff's officials say the 44-year-old man was reported missing Aug. 12 after he did not return home the previous night. Since then , the man's kayak, life jacket, water bottle, tackle box and fishing pole have been found. The man's vehicle was found near Dodge Memorial County Park on the lake's southwest shore.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and Bruce's Legacy , a group based in western Wisconsin, have provided sonar and underwater drones. Sheriff's officials say the equipment is an important tool for searching Wisconsin's deepest lake. Bruce's Legacy is also helping in the search for Bill Salnik , a man whose sailboat capsized on Green Bay last month.

Green Lake County authorities are asking boaters who see something in the water to take a closer look. If it is determined that the object is floating trash, boaters are asked to remove it not only to keep the lake clean, but to speed up aerial searches for the missing kayaker.

Anyone who finds something of concern should call 911 and take a photo or GPS coordinates if possible.

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Salt Water Sportsman

Best Boat Trolling Motor Features for Saltwater Fishing

  • By Ric Burnley
  • August 21, 2024

The trolling motor was invented in 1934, but the first saltwater models didn’t hit the water until a decade ago. Why did it take almost 90 years for the trolling motor to reach coastal anglers? Durability. Combining saltwater, metal and electricity is a recipe for corrosion-forming electrolysis. Freshwater trolling motors died in salt and early saltwater models struggled to survive. 

The latest generation of saltwater trolling motors feature durable components and smart design to thrive in the harsh marine environment. Leading the way, Garmin’s Force Kraken trolling motor is built with tough components and advanced features for the ultimate in boat control to catch more fish.

Garmin Force Kraken

What Is a Trolling Motor for Saltwater Fishing?

The first trolling motors were small electric kickers that attached to the stern of a jon boat. Bass anglers quickly realized the advantage of mounting an electric motor on the bow to silently maneuver the boat while fishing. Before long, a trolling motor was standard equipment on a bass sled. But the technology has been slow to reach saltwater. 

A trolling motor is a small electric motor on a long shaft powered by large, rechargeable batteries. The shaft is mounted on the boat to hold the motor below the water. Using a hand control, remote control or foot pedal, I direct the motor to position the boat with more accuracy than possible with a gas outboard. With a trolling motor, I can silently troll for skittish fish, sneak into shallow water, patrol an area, maneuver handsfree and hold my boat in one position while I fish. 

Trolling Motor Innovations

Modern trolling motors have some amazing features. The most significant advancement is connecting the trolling motor to a GPS network. With the satellite location information, I can program my trolling motor to follow a course, repeat a course, return to a location, jog at a low speed, and more. When I push the anchor lock button, the GPS manipulates the trolling motor so my boat stays in one position. 

Manufacturers have focused on durability and power improvements to bring the technology to saltwater anglers. To survive salt and sand that plagues coastal fishing equipment, saltwater trolling motors like Garmin’s Force Kraken use corrosion-resistant materials, redundant systems, and sealed electronics. 

The next challenge was generating power to pull a large saltwater fishing boat in strong current and wind. To produce enough torque to move heavy boats, the best saltwater trolling motors use brushless motors that draw less electricity and create more power. Garmin’s Force Kraken can produce up to 100 foot pounds of thrust with a shaft length up to 90 inches to run boats up to 35 feet long.

With the invention of forward-facing and 360 sonar, the trolling motor has become a convenient place to mount the sonar transducer. Attaching the transducer to the motor head, I can turn the transducer to direct the signal at potential targets while watching the return on a multi-function display.

Speaking of the fish finder display, Garmin’s Force Kraken trolling motor uses wireless connection to integrate with Garmin’s electronics systems. I control the Kraken with a handheld remote control, wireless foot pedal, smartphone or smartwatch. Combining these user-friendly features with a durable electric motor large and powerful enough to fish offshore and inshore, Garmin’s Force Kraken is a perfect example of the capabilities of modern saltwater trolling motors.

8 Top Saltwater Fishing Electric Trolling Motor Features 

Adding GPS control and forward-facing sonar completely changed the trolling motor game. The small electric motors are now a boat control and fish-finding weapon. With the Garmin Force Kraken and other modern trolling motors, I program routes, hold my boat in one place, search fish in every direction and fish all day without worrying about battery power. Today’s trolling motors have a long list of features aimed at making fishing easier and more fun.

Anchor Deployment Capabilities

Without a doubt, the Garmin Force Kraken’s virtual anchor is its most valuable feature. I push a button on the remote and the trolling motor works to hold the boat in place. Garmin’s Force Kraken uses a two band GPS for pinpoint accuracy and lightning fast steering response. 

Most trolling motors spin the motor 360 degrees to move the boat forward and backward. Instead of turning the whole motor, The Force Kraken uses a reverse gear which creates less turbulence and responds quicker saving time and energy. In swift current and strong wind, the Force Kraken controls my boat without missing a beat. 

Garmin LiveScope Compatibility

In addition to advanced boat control capabilities, Garmin’s Force Kraken and other top-end trolling motors offer me a place to mount my forward facing sonar transducer. Forward-facing and 360 sonar allow me to see fish and structure in every direction below the water. The transducer turns 360 degrees to search for fish and structure up to 200 feet from the boat. 

Some anglers mount the transducer to the end of a pole that is attached to a bracket on the side of the boat. Garmin’s Force Kraken allows me to mount the LiveScope transducer on the motor. To direct the sonar signal, I turn the trolling motor in the direction I’m searching. I route the transducer cable through the trolling motor shaft for a clean install and less chance of damaging the cord.

Battery Performance

Battery performance is a trolling motor’s Achilles heel. The electric motor runs on large batteries with limited capacity. Sealed lead-acid marine batteries are the standard; lithium batteries are lighter and more durable with longer battery life. 

To extend the battery life, Garmin’s Force Kraken’s brushless motor conserves energy and produces more power than a brushed motor. Also, the efficient propeller and reverse gear reduce the motor’s work load. Running off 36 volts (that’s three 12 volt batteries), the Kraken will produce 100 pounds of thrust for hours of fishing. 

User-Friendly Remote and Foot Pedal Control

A trolling motor is all about boat control, so controlling the motor is key to catching more fish. Garmin’s Force Kraken offers a floating, wireless remote control, a wireless foot pedal or integration with a smartphone or smartwatch. I can even operate the motor with my fish finder display. 

The best trolling motor remotes have large, intuitive buttons and a small LED display of motor information. To operate the motor while I’m casting my fishing rod, a wireless foot pedal promotes hands-free fishing. 

If the wireless systems fail, I can still control the motor with my phone. A few basic features, like anchor lock, are accessible on the base of the motor. When I’m searching for fish, I use the foot-pedal to cast and retrieve while covering water. 

The handheld remote gives me quick access to anchor lock and other programming features. To unlock the motor’s full potential, I use the app and wireless connection to my fish finder to program routes and make precise location adjustments.

When the current is ripping and the wind is whipping, a trolling motor struggles to control a big boat. Garmin Force Kraken has a Turbo Mode that increases the power and torque for short periods when I need it most. Kicking the motor into Turbo Mode helps me limit power usage by saving maximum speed for the toughest motoring conditions. 

Minimal Prop Wash and Obstruction Quick Reverse

A trolling motor quietly maneuvers the boat while I’m fishing. To prevent spooking the fish, Garmin’s Force Kraken combines an optimized propeller and silent operation. The propeller creates minimal bubbles and no cavitation and the shaft turns smoothly. When the boat is in anchor lock mode, the propeller spins forward and reverse instead of the shaft constantly spinning to keep the boat in one place.

Pivot Style Mount

Most saltwater boats don’t have a wide open deck in the bow like a bass boat. Garmin’s Force Kraken uses a small pivot style mount to secure the motor with a minimal footprint. 

When I arrive to the fishing grounds, I rotate the shaft to unlock the release and then slide and pivot the motor head into the water. The pivot mount is easy to remove from the boat and requires less space in the bow, so it fits more saltwater boats. 

Composite Shaft

A long shaft on a large saltwater boat takes a lot of abuse. In rough seas, the powerful motor wants to bend and break the shaft. Saltwater trolling motors have an indestructible and corrosion resistant composite shaft. The best saltwater trolling motors, like Garmin’s Force Kraken, have a shaft that includes a conduit to route a fish finder transducer cable.

The final choice is choosing the shaft length. The trolling motor’s composite shaft reaches from the bow to below the water. Measure the distance and choose a shaft length that will keep the motor below the water in rough seas. An easy-to-use online tutorial makes it easy to build a total boat system. 

Garmin’s Force Kraken is available in four sizes, from 48 inches to 90 inches, to cover boats from 18 feet to 35 feet long. The price at Bass Pro Shops depends on the shaft length, with a 48-inch model going for $3799.99 to $4299.99 for the 90-inch motor.

Alternatives to the Garmin Force Kraken

It’s a good time to be in the market for a trolling motor. The most advanced technology is now available for saltwater trolling motors with up to 115-pounds of thrust and a 100-inch shaft. And the latest motors are finally winning the battle against corrosion with space-age materials and design. The race is on to create the most advanced trolling motor that is easiest to use. All this is great news for saltwater anglers looking to add a trolling motor to their boat.

Power-Pole Move PV

Heavy Duty: Power-Pole Move PV

Power-Pole’s primary objective when they designed their first trolling motor was durability. They satisfied that objective with a bulletproof brushless motor, reinforced propeller, titanium shaft and redundant systems. 

The Move PV is part of Power-Pole’s total boat control system to link with their shallow-water anchors to stop and propel the boat with one remote. Of course, the Move includes all the advanced GPS features expected of a top-of-the-line trolling motor.

Price: $5599.99 – 72”

MotorGuide Xi5

Budget Friendly: MotorGuide Xi5

MotorGuide’s Xi5 is a classic saltwater trolling motor that provides advanced features at a great value. I control the Xi5 with a handheld remote or wireless foot pedal. The trolling motor integrates with Lowrance, Simrad and Mercury Marine electronics. A pin-point accurate GPS allows me to jog the boat, follow a course and lock the boat in position. The Xi5 has been around for years, a testament to its durable composite shaft, sealed electronics and corrosion-resistant coatings.

Price: $2549.99 – 72”

Minn Kota Riptide Instinct Quest

Big Boats: Minn Kota Riptide Instinct Quest

Minn Kota started the trolling motor game and stays ahead of the competition with the largest and most powerful trolling motors. With shafts up to 100 inches and 115 foot-pounds of thrust, the Riptide Instinct Quest motor is appropriate for boats over 35 feet long. Minn Kota’s Riptide Instinct Quest includes a brushless motor , GPS control, electronics integration and power-saving features expected in a premium trolling motor for saltwater. 

Price: $4699.99 – 72”

Elevate Your Fishing With Advanced Trolling Motor Features

Trolling motors for saltwater are more powerful and durable than ever before. I use my trolling motor to troll, power drift, fish structure and silently search for fish. Trolling motors may be new to saltwater fishing, but the advanced boat-control features make me wonder how I ever lived without a trolling motor on my saltwater boat.

What is the difference between a trolling motor and an outboard motor?

A trolling motor is a small electric motor used to maneuver the boat while fishing. A gas-powered outboard quickly propels the boat to and from the fishing grounds. The trolling motor is less powerful and slower, but the motor spins 360 degrees so I can turn the boat quickly and accurately without the noise and commotion of a gas engine. I use my gas motor to travel to my fishing spot, then I turn off the outboard and drop the trolling motor into the water. With the small electric motor, I precisely position the boat to cast or jig more accurately. 

How do I know what size trolling motor I need?

Each trolling motor manufacturer has online tutorials and guides for choosing and fitting a trolling motor to any boat. The rule of thumb is a longer and heavier boat requires more thrust and a longer shaft.

How fast can a troll motor go?

A trolling motor isn’t designed for speed. However, a trolling motor must have enough power and torque to control the boat in adverse weather and water conditions. Garmin’s Force Kraken has a special Turbo Mode that boosts power when the going gets rough. It also uses a silent and responsive steering unit and a unique reverse gear to improve boat control and save battery power.

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IMAGES

  1. Rent a 2015 23 ft. Sonar Sonar 23' one-design keelboat in Boston, MA on

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  2. Shumway Marine

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  3. 1986 Sonar Sonar23 sailboat for sale in Florida

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  4. Shumway Marine

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  5. 1989 Sonar Sonar sailboat for sale in Michigan

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  6. 1978 Sonar Restoration by Shumway Marine • Shoreline Sailboats

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COMMENTS

  1. Sonar (keelboat)

    Sonar is a trailerable racing sailboat designed by Bruce Kirby in 1980. It is a World Sailing international class and a Paralympic sailing class with a fractional sloop rig, a fin keel and a spade rudder.

  2. Shumway Marine

    Learn about the Sonar, a 23' one-design keelboat that can race or daysail with up to four crew. Designed by Bruce Kirby, it is fast, simple, and stable, with a spacious cockpit and a cuddy.

  3. Sonar Class Association

    Wayzata Sailing Club hosted North American Championship. Wayzata, MN, September 18, 2023 - Wayzata Yacht Club hosted the Annual 2023 Sonar North American Championship Sailing Regatta on Sep. 14-17, on Lake Minnetonka - originally planned for 2020. There were 17 Sonar boats with approximately 68 sailors competing from as far away as New Hampshire and Vancouver, BC, in a pinnacle end-of-the ...

  4. SONAR

    SONAR is a fin keel fractional sloop sailboat designed by Bruce Kirby and built by Seidelman and others. Find its dimensions, calculations, rig and sail particulars, and links to designers, builders, associations, and forum topics.

  5. Sonar sailboats for sale by owner.

    Sonar preowned sailboats for sale by owner. Sonar used sailboats for sale by owner.

  6. Boat

    The Sonar is a 23-foot daysailer that combines performance, stability and safety for various sailing conditions and levels. It is used by sailing schools, clubs and disabled sailors for racing and training around the world.

  7. Shumway Marine

    Learn about the features and dimensions of the Sonar sailboat, a 23-foot one-design racing boat with a deep fin keel and a fractional rig. See photos, sails, hardware, trailer and contact information.

  8. Sonar

    Sonar is a high-performance sloop with a fin keel and spade rudder, built by several yards since 1980. It has a low displacement/length ratio, a high sail area/displacement ratio, and a moderate ballast/displacement ratio.

  9. Rondar Raceboats

    Rondar Sonar. Now a World Sailing Class! The 23' Sonar one-design keelboat is a high-performance racer and also a comfortable daysailor just right for getting the entire family or friends on the water together. It was designed by Bruce Kirby and almost 700 boats have been built since 1980. The Sonar has recently achieved status as an ...

  10. Specs

    Boat; Specs; LOA: 23'0″ - 7.0m LWL: 19'11" - 6.1m BEAM: 7'10" - 2.4m DRAFT: 3'11" - 1.2m DISP: 2100lb - 950kg BALLAST: 900lb - 408kg MAIN & JIB: 250 sq.ft - 23.2 sq.m SPIN: 245 sq.ft - 22.8 sq.m. Sonar Class Association Connecticut (USA) Categories. News; Uncategorized; Recent Posts. Brian Doyle Wins Sonar 2023 ...

  11. Port Sailing School

    Port Sailing School offers 10 Sonar 23 boats for sailing lessons and rentals. The Sonar is a versatile and accessible keelboat for up to five people, designed by Bruce Kirby and used in Paralympic sailing.

  12. 1989 Sonar Sonar sailboat for sale in Michigan

    Michigan. $5,000. Description: A completely restored Sonar One Design Sailboat. This boat has been completely repainted inside and out. This is a new like looking boat. Equipment: All new running rigging with two sets of North Sails. It has a trailer and all the safety equipment needed to race one design.

  13. The story of the former Olympian who designed the world's most beloved boat

    The Sonar is a "one-design boat," meaning its specifications and equipment are governed by strict rules to ensure that competing in one is a test of skill, not money. Sailing remains a sport ...

  14. Shumway Marine

    Sonar Reviews. When asked why the Sonar class works and thrives, Sonar sailors did not point to groundbreaking thinking in class management; nor to a boat that wows you with technology or rockstars in its fleet ranks.Sonar sailors love this boat with the big cockpit and the 100 percent jib; they love the fact that you don't need heavies on the rail and a boatload of world-class sailing minds ...

  15. Sonar Fleet 23 : Nyack Boat Club

    Sonar Fleet 23. The Nyack Boat Club has an active and growing fleet of Bruce Kirby-designed Sonars. Sonars are 23-foot-long high-performance keelboats designed with simple, efficient rigs to provide sparkling performance in reasonable comfort. These one-design sailboats can ghost along in light air, yet their deep keel and rudder make it ...

  16. 1978 Sonar Restoration by Shumway Marine • Shoreline Sailboats

    February 24, 2017. 1978 Sonar Sailboat - Awaiting Restoration. Late last fall we sold a 1978 Sonar to Skip Shumway of Shumway Marine. The boat was in pretty tough shape. The blue gel coat had faded to a chalky hue. The black anodized mast had rubbed through to the bare aluminum. The rudder and keel were both a mess in each their own unique ...

  17. Builder

    A new Sonar costs approximately $45,000 for boat, spars, and galvanized road trailer with brakes. For details, possible special offers or, fleet purchase options, please contact Rondar directly. A premier builder of small sailboats since 1965, Rondar Raceboats became the builder of the International Sonar in 2015. The initial incarnation of ...

  18. Class

    Founded in 1980, the Sonar Class Association is the governing body for Sonar sailing worldwide. In 2000 the class obtained Recognized status with the World Sailing, the international governing body of the sport. When the Sonar was designed and orders were taken for the first fleet of boats at Noroton Yacht Club, in Darien, Connecticut, the ...

  19. Sonars are a keelboat for sailors

    Sonar. What kind of sailboat is a Sonar, and what are the features of this boat? Sonars are a triple handed keelboat raced by both adaptive and able bodied sailors. The Sonar is used by sailors who enjoy a team mentality, who are often interested in racing in addition to cruising. The Sonar has a mileu of possible adaptions.

  20. Sonar Sailboats Boats for sale

    Sonar Sailboats. Sonar Sailboats Boats for sale. 1-15 of 19. Alert for new Listings. Sort By. Sailboat. $17,000 . Wesley Chapel, Florida. Year 2008 . Make MacGregor. Model 26 M. Category Sailboats . Length 26.0 . Posted Over 1 Month. One Owner, Ordered from and Rigged by Boating Atlanta June 2008. ...

  21. Sonar Sailboat Parts, Rigging, and Accessories

    The 23-foot Sonar is popular for its combination of comfort, speed, and ease of handling. This trailerable Bermuda rig, sailed by a crew of 3 to 5, seats up to 8 people and has a deep keel for stability. The Sonar's generous cockpit appealed to both disabled and able-bodied sailors. It became Europe's first Paralympic sailing class in 1996.

  22. 1986 Sonar Sonar23 sailboat for sale in Florida

    Florida. $4,500. Description: Make an offer. This is an excellent 23ft modified Sonar day sailor that I am refitting. The modification is that this boat has a much larger cabin, an open stern for water runoff, flat and streamlined cockpit area, and a double spreader keel stepped mast, which the other Sonars do not have.

  23. How to Read Your Fish Finder Sonar Display

    We cover sonar basics, share tips for fine-tuning, and look at examples of interpreting fish targets, bottom composition and more. Episode Overview. You'll learn how to better understand what's beneath and around your boat. We cover sonar basics, share tips for fine-tuning, and look at examples of interpreting fish targets, bottom composition ...

  24. ActiveTarget® 2 Explorer Series Pack

    The ultimate in portable fishing solutions, whether on ice, kayak or as easy to carry solution for your fishing trips. The explorer series comes with an ActiveTarget® 2 Live Sonar, waterproof bag and frame, ice transducer pole, custom cabling and wiring and a 24AH lithium battery.

  25. Sonar sailboats for sale by owner.

    Your search returned 4 matches of 102393 sailboats posted to date. Sort by: Length Year Price Added Sonar Sonar

  26. Aerial, underwater searches for missing kayaker on Green Lake continue

    GREEN LAKE (WLUK) -- Daily drone and sonar searches continue more than a week after a kayaker was reported missing on Green Lake. Sheriff's officials say the 44-year-old man was reported missing ...

  27. Best Boat Trolling Motor Features for Saltwater Fishing

    The next challenge was generating power to pull a large saltwater fishing boat in strong current and wind. To produce enough torque to move heavy boats, the best saltwater trolling motors use brushless motors that draw less electricity and create more power. Garmin's Force Kraken can produce up to 100 foot pounds of thrust with a shaft length up to 90 inches to run boats up to 35 feet long.

  28. Behind the scenes at Electric Boat: Building subs and hiring workers

    The USS Henry M. Jackson submerges in July 2021 off the Washington coast. Launched in October 1983 at General Dynamics Electric Boat in Groton, Conn., the ballistic missile submarine will be the first in the Ohio class to be phased out in advance of the new, Columbia-class of "boomer" subs now being built starting with the USS District of Columbia.