Impact of Modern, Triangular-Design on Boat Performance

Modern production boats often sport a triangular design that can offer more interior space and faster speeds. However, when these designs are overloaded with gear and people, their performance suffers.

By
Roland Stockham
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1
This 2016 Beneteau Oceanis 35.1 has a broad, flat stern and narrow, pointed bow. While this triangular design can offer more interior space and faster speeds, sailors need to ensure the boat isn't overloaded. Photo courtesy of Boat Trader.

Go round any boat show and look at the hulls from underneath—most now have a narrow, very pointed bow and a broad flat stern. Why? Where did this come from and what are the advantages and disadvantages of this shape compared to more traditional designs for cruising boats?

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Impact of Modern, Triangular-Design on Boat Performance
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Roland Stockham
Roland Stockham
Roland Stockham got his start sailing Olympic-class 470s and Finns in his native England. He started his journey as a voyager crewing for yacht owners sailing to Europe because he was handy at diesel repair. His first cruising boat was a 26-ft. Folkboat with no engine. He lives in British Columbia and sails a 35-ft. Colin Archer design. He is a Royal Yachting Association certified Yacht Master and is qualified to make trans-oceanic deliveries.

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1 COMMENT

  1. Your discussion of slamming needs more caveats. A big consideration is the wave height and period as compared to the length of the vessel. Next, many flat, shallow hulls have chines so as the vessel heels the chine contributes more bouancy, preventing the rail from going into the water. My BO 35.1 rides fine, though I primarily sail in the Chesapeake Bay.