Boat Weight and Performance

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codytyler

Cadet
Joined
May 24, 2003
Messages
8
Probably a stupid question, but here goes: Will a heavier boat ride more comfortably in choppy water than a lighter one? My 25 ft. Cuddy Cabin bounces pretty good in the Puget Sound on what I would term as only mild chop. Would a heavier boat push thru the chop better and give a less bumpy ride? Please advise.
 
JB

JB

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Mar 25, 2001
Messages
45,907
Re: Boat Weight and Performance

Yes, Cody.<br /><br />If all other factors are equal the heavier boat will absorb shock better.<br /><br />It will also be slower, more vulnerable to swamping, use more fuel and be slower to respond to controls.<br /><br />Personally, I will take the lighter boat and operate her to suit the condition of the water.<br /><br />Good luck. :)
 
S

Solittle

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Apr 28, 2002
Messages
7,518
Re: Boat Weight and Performance

Welcome Cody - The simple answer to this is yes if, and it is a big IF, all other things are equal - two identical boats, identical loads, identical trim, identical wind & water conditions - the one with an extra 500 lbs will ride more smoothly.<br /><br />The heavier one will also drink more fuel - the lighter be a tad faster and so forth.
 
S

steelespike

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Apr 26, 2002
Messages
19,069
Re: Boat Weight and Performance

Hull form is pretty important to ride as well.<br /> A true deep V will ride better than a semi V.<br /> Most semi displacement hulls will be much smoother than either one,but slower.<br />Study the other boats out there make note of how they ride and handle.Ask around.
 
R

record hunter

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Apr 22, 2003
Messages
99
Re: Boat Weight and Performance

I have a deep v sea ray .Its a heavy boat and I have some weight in the front and about. I fish in very rough water usually 15 to 30 knot winds sometimes 4 to 8 foot seas.I recomend the heavier the better you will sacrifice the gas but I just leave earlier. The bigest thing is following seas dont put alot of weight in the front though you might get scared I do all the time. Another big thing get your self some trim tabs that will push your nose down going up into it. Or sell your boat and buy a RADON hull I believe the best boat built for rough water
 
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