"Polars"

[LABoroviak]

I recently aquired the polars for my First 32s5. How does one best use them to test boat performance?

 

[Jackdaw]

Polars are typically generated nowadays by a VPP (Velocity Prediction Program) to 'map' a boats potential speed in a matrix of winds speeds and apparent wind angles. They are best used to see what point of sail your ship can make its best VMG towards a mark, and at what speed. If you can match it, great, if not, figure out what is not up to scratch. See the Polar for my 36.7, the small 'bllips; show best VMG at different wind speeds. It shows that the boat can sail fine at 30 degrees apparent, but best VMG is closer to 40 degrees apparent. It can also show you some interesting things; the 36.7 with the deep keel can sail a beam reach at 4.3 knots in only 4 knots of breeze.