Hull Speed
The theoretical displacement-mode speed limit — determined by waterline length, not engine or sail power.
4.9 kts
A displacement hull pushes a bow wave whose speed is limited by the waterline length.
With a waterline of 13.6′, the Sprite Dinghy Uk tops out around 4.9 knots in displacement mode — after that, the bow wave outruns the hull and resistance climbs steeply.
1.34 × √13.6′ LWL = 4.9 kts
Performance Ratios
Racing handicap, sail-carrying power, stability and comfort — and what each one actually tells you about a day on the water.
Displacement / Length
76
Ultralight — responsive and fast, but carries less stores.
Hull Speed
4.9kts
Pounds/Inch Immersion
2lbs
Weight needed to sink the hull one inch — loading sensitivity.
How It Compares
Side-by-side with the boats most often cross-shopped against the Sprite Dinghy Uk.
| Sprite Dinghy Uk | Dragonfly One Design | Gp14 | Merlin Rocket | Redwing National Redwing | Yachting World Dayboat | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | ||||||
| LOA | 14.0 | 14.0 | 14.0 | 14.0 | 14.0 | 14.0 |
| LWL | 13.6 | 13.0 | — | 13.5 | 14.0 | 13.7 |
| Beam | 5.2 | 5.0 | 5.1 | 7.2 | 5.0 | 5.7 |
| Displacement | 425 | 225 | 293 | 210 | 360 | 450 |
| Sail Area | — | 125 | 103 | — | 145 | 132 |
| Performance | ||||||
| SA/Disp | — | 54.1 | 37.4 | — | 45.9 | 36.0 |
| Comfort | — | 3.1 | — | — | 4.7 | 5.0 |
| Capsize | — | 3.29 | 3.04 | — | 2.81 | 2.96 |
| Hull Speed | — | 4.8 | — | — | 5.0 | 5.0 |