What to call it?

[brs517]

Hi all, last Summer I bought a used Chapparal open-bow, and have been having lots of fun with it. My question is this: when someone says they have an 18' boat, what exactly does that mean? Mine is either 17'8" (if measured along the side) or 16' if measured from the tip of the bow to the center of the transom. Would most people call that a 16' boat? or a 17'? Or round up from the 17'8" and call it an 18'???? <br /><br />I know it's kind of a trivial question, but I'm curious. Thanks for your help.<br /><br />Brian

 

[Pursuit2150]

Re: What to call it?

The normal length is measured in a straight line from the tip of the bow to the stern. The length does not include platforms, pulpits,O/B's or any other attachments. That is called (OAL).The 16' sounds correct.

 

[JB]

Re: What to call it?

Pursuit is correct, but. . . <br />Many manufacturers give their boats "length" names that could mislead. Some examples:<br /><br />Both the Boston Whaler Sakonnet 16 and Montauk 17 are 16'7".<br /><br />The Boston Whaler Outrage 18 and the following Outrage 19 are both 18'6".<br /><br />...and that's just one manufacturer!<br /><br />Red sky at night. . .<br />JB