Drake, I did note that the eclipse has a drop keel arrangement so no intrusion into the cabin. A centerboard case definitely can take up space and be in the way. However, I am willing to accept that sacrifice for the 18" draft with board up and the deepest point of that being at the stern. I want something I can launch easily (sitting lower in the trailer) and something I could run up to the bank. BTW, I also like the feel of a centerboard over other options such as bilgeboards.

My wife also wants something we can sail now which is why I built a 12' catboat from bateau.com after selling my 14' catboat. Something to tide us over during the building of the bigger boat.