BRADWELL 18
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 18.75 ft |
| LWL | 16.83 ft |
| Beam | 6.25 ft |
| Draft | 3.25 ft/ 1.25 ft min |
| Displacement | 1,200 lb |
| Ballast | 400 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 5.5 kn |
About the BRADWELL 18
MK I version shown here. The most noticeable difference in the MKII version was a taller coach roof providing better interior head room.
The Bradwell 18 is a compact, lightweight trailerable sloop designed by P. E. Ferguson and built by Bradwell/Trident Laminates Ltd. in the UK, with production records indicating a single build year of 1973. While the exact total hull count is unspecified in available data, the fleet is characterized by its 18.75 ft LOA, 1200.0 lb displacement, and 400.0 lb ballast, making it a distinct entry in the micro-cruiser segment.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal day-sailing, trailerable cruising, and single-handers seeking a low-maintenance, easy-to-store package. Its light displacement and shallow 3.25 ft max draft make it ideal for shallow-water exploration and beaching rather than extended offshore passages.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low displacement of 1200.0 lb, a capsize ratio of 2.35, and a comfort ratio of 9.27, the Bradwell 18 is not designed for bluewater cruising and is best restricted to protected coastal waters. Its light weight and fin keel configuration prioritize ease of trailering and handling in moderate conditions over heavy-weather stability.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the O'Day 18 and the Cal 18, as they share similar dimensions, trailerable footprints, and roles as entry-level coastal cruisers. The Bradwell 18 distinguishes itself with a slightly higher SA/D ratio of 21.01, suggesting potentially better light-air performance compared to heavier-displacement contemporaries.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the BRADWELL 18 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 18.75ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
25 reported issues across 10 systems for the BRADWELL 18, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a BRADWELL 18? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 25 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your BRADWELL 18?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Westerbeke, Bukh, Universal — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the BRADWELL 18
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…