Log In
I had a conversation with my father the other day about mahogany runabouts and what determines which hulls have more speed potential. Sounds like something you all would be interested in…
I remember back when we were working on the Riviera and one of the ideas for this design was to have a boat that would be faster than the classics it was styled after.
One feature that can limit hull speed due to safety reasons, is the bow rake. The bow rake is the amount of angle at the bow as shown on the profile drawing. Here are a couple of examples:
The Riviera is at the left, the Barrelback at the right. You can see the obvious difference in the shape of the bow.
On designs with a deep forefoot like the Barrelback above, this hook can cause the boat to “submarine” at higher speeds. Yes, that means just what it says–the bow can submerge and boats have been known to flip, particularly when crossing a wake. Back when this type of design was popular, motors weren’t as powerful as today. Keep that in mind–your safety is very important to us.
Boats like the Riviera, Monaco and Tahoe are best to about 50 mph, while designs similar to the Barrelback, Biscayne & Key Largo, we recommend running in the 30 mph range. There are always exceptions and we realize that many of you are going much faster than that–we tend to be conservative.
I can already hear some of you thinking, “so, can I change the rake of the bow?” The answer is no, we wouldn’t recommend it. Altering much more than the length or cabin/cockpit arrangement on a design is not recommended. We have a very good detailed explanation of the how, why and why-not of changing a set of plans.
Glen-L Word of the Week:
BULBOUS FOREFOOT
A convex entry at the keel/stem junction (as opposed to a sharp vee) incorporated to soften the ride. When used in conjunction with a reverse curve at the chine, it usually makes sheet materials impractical requiring other planking methods in the forward section.
If you enjoyed this article, please consider sharing it!
Hi! Welcome to Glen-L!
Connect with us:
Recommended:
11 Responses to Build Your Dream Boat #25
A very informative and an enjoyable read! Interesting to become aware of how the designs are linked to the engine capacities at the time. Thanks!
I have finally cleared all of my projects, organized the workshop…err, the garage and I am ready to order plans. Though I would love to build the Tahoe design at 23′, my space will allow for only 20′. I had chosen the 20′ version of the Barrelback. But after reading the string regarding a hooking issue of the Belle Isle with a similar bow, I have had second thoughts. I live 10 minutes from the Gulf of Mexico, so a boat that can handle the ocean is important. Gayle’s article renewed my concern that the Barrelback may not be my best choice for the intended use. Any advice?
Take a look at the Riviera or Monaco.
Great article and outstanding designs.
Thanks, Paul
Your articles are always very informative. They address questions i did not know i had. Boating safety is some times not considered when choosing a design.
Hey Allen
Skiing works best at about 20 mph well below the speed limit that Gayle is talking about.
This is great information because these are the very boats I have been considering. I am looking for a cruiser that I can also pull a tube or skier. However, I don’t know boats well enough to know what speed range I need for skiing. Can you point me in the right direction for a good all-round boat? Thank you.
The Riviera or Monaco would be good for skiing. The Monaco has an open cockpit utility version as well.
Thanks dear,i realy appreciate all the lessons so far. The bow design is realy important for a faster boat. Is this also aplicable to a catamaran? Also planning boats always have its bow raised out of water when speeding.
Cats are a whole other subject. The boat before and after plane would be the concern…
Great topic. I love discussions of boat design and always thankful to hear designers share their opinions and experience on the finer points of boat design.
Thank you, Mr. Witt.
Rick