The draft at the keel/centerboard is, in my estimation, not the main controlling difference. For myself, the issue is more the kick-up rudder on a 15 vs the vertically sliding rudder on a 17. For shallower water sailing, a kick-up rudder could be retrofitted to a 17 (IdaSailor offers one). Something I need to do this winter is make a new rudder for my 17 (I shattered my nice wooden one on a submerged immoveable object last summer). I plan to make a kick-up one. Tod Mills M17 #408 BuscaBrisas ________________________________ From: montgomery_boats-bounces+randyg=cite.nic.edu@mailman.xmission.com on behalf of Jerry Sent: Mon 11/6/2006 2:11 PM To: montgomery_boats@mailman.xmission.com Subject: M_Boats: Close to the bank I am interested, but do not yet have a Montgomery. I have a wonderful picture as my computer wallpaper of two Montgomery 15 boats pulled up about a foot from a sandy shore. This capability really appeals to me, but I may want the larger M-17. I have read several cruising stories where both boats were present. Does the greater draft of the M-17 make much practical difference in being able to pull up close to shore? Thanks, Jerry Renno ________________________________________________________________________ ____________ Sponsored Link $200,000 mortgage for $660/mo - 30/15 yr fixed, reduce debt, home equity - Click now for info http://yahoo.ratemarketplace.com <http://yahoo.ratemarketplace.com/> _______________________________________________ http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/montgomery_boats