The Contest 41 is with a gentle bluewater motion.
Hull Speed
The theoretical displacement-mode speed limit — determined by waterline length, not engine or sail power.
7.6 kts
A displacement hull pushes a bow wave whose speed is limited by the waterline length.
With a waterline of 32.5′, the Contest 41 tops out around 7.6 knots in displacement mode — after that, the bow wave outruns the hull and resistance climbs steeply.
1.34 × √32.5′ LWL = 7.6 kts
Performance Ratios
Racing handicap, sail-carrying power, stability and comfort — and what each one actually tells you about a day on the water.
Ballast / Displacement
33.5%
Typical cruising ballast — balanced stability and motion underway.
Displacement / Length
354
Heavy displacement — a slow, steady, seakindly hull.
Comfort Ratio
40.8
Very comfortable in a seaway — a genuine bluewater motion.
Capsize Screening
1.69
Below the 2.0 offshore threshold — acceptable for ocean passages.
Hull Speed
7.6kts
Pounds/Inch Immersion
1lbs
Weight needed to sink the hull one inch — loading sensitivity.
Motion & Offshore Suitability
Two ratios that matter most when you're planning passages — how the boat feels in a seaway, and whether the hull geometry is suitable for open ocean.
Comfort Ratio
40.8
Very comfortable in a seaway — a genuine bluewater motion.
Under 20 — Snappy, racing motion
20–30 — Acceptable coastal
30–40 — Good offshore comfort
Over 40 — Very comfortable offshore
Capsize Screening Formula
1.69
Below the 2.0 offshore threshold — acceptable for ocean passages.
Under 2.0 — Acceptable for offshore
Over 2.0 — Coastal / protected waters