Comparing capsize and comfort rates of boats

Jeff M21319

.

Mar 18, 2004

Finally a formula that we can all appreciate!

Tom, I think you may be on to something here! However, as we all know, there can be a number of other factors involved. Positive points can be added for things like: only child and her ailing daddy owns the biggest chain of liquor stores in the state *5, drop dead gorgeous but legally blind without her glasses, thinks balding is soooo sexy, has a Swan 42 but needs a Captain to sail it, you get the point. Anyhow, next time I go bar hopping, I'm taking a calculator! (that 'oughta be a real ice breaker) ;D

Don Rice

Mar 18, 2004

IMO Formulas are---

I think all the formula's will give you some indication of what the boat will do. Many have already pointed out that you can't rely on them.Many modern designs rely on a wide beam for stability and less on a deep heavy keel. This can be seen in the decreasing ballast displacement ratios. This in my mind is dangerous as the beam is only a positive factor in stability to a certain point after which it becomes a negative. Good examples are cats or tri hulls as once they reach a certain point they go and they aren't coming back.The most important number that doesn't seem to be available is the lateral centre of gravity. The deeper it is in any vessel will likely improve stability and overall sea-kindliness. Displacement in itself is only a positive factor if it is low in the vessel and lowering the overall CG.