The Topper is with a quick, snappy motion best suited to day sailing.
Hull Speed
The theoretical displacement-mode speed limit — determined by waterline length, not engine or sail power.
4.1 kts
A displacement hull pushes a bow wave whose speed is limited by the waterline length.
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
52
Ultralight — responsive and fast, but carries less stores.
Comfort Ratio
2.5
Quick, snappy motion — better for day sails and racing than long passages.
Hull Speed
4.1kts
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
2.5
Quick, snappy motion — better for day sails and racing than long passages.
Under 20 — Snappy, racing motion
20–30 — Acceptable coastal
30–40 — Good offshore comfort
Over 40 — Very comfortable offshore
How It Compares
Side-by-side with the boats most often cross-shopped against the Topper.
| Topper | Europe International | Heron | Mirror Dinghy Int | Penguin | Sailfish Alcort | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | ||||||
| LOA | 11.2 | 11.0 | 11.3 | 10.8 | 11.4 | 11.6 |
| LWL | — | 11.0 | — | — | — | — |
| Beam | 3.9 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.7 | 2.6 |
| Displacement | 99 | 99 | 140 | 135 | 140 | 82 |
| Sail Area | — | 76 | 70 | 69 | — | — |
| Performance | ||||||
| SA/Disp | — | 56.8 | 41.6 | — | — | — |
| Comfort | 2.5 | 1.9 | 2.9 | 2.8 | 2.7 | 3.3 |
| Capsize | — | 3.82 | — | — | — | — |
| Hull Speed | 4.1 | 4.4 | 4.1 | 4.1 | 4.2 | 4.2 |