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 13.4′, the Town tops out around 4.9 knots in displacement mode — after that, the bow wave outruns the hull and resistance climbs steeply.
1.34 × √13.4′ 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
129
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 Town.
| Town | Daysailer | O Jolle | Olympic Monotype 1924 | Ss Class | Wianno Junior | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | ||||||
| LOA | 16.5 | 16.8 | 16.4 | 16.4 | 16.5 | 16.5 |
| LWL | 13.4 | 15.5 | — | — | 14.0 | 13.0 |
| Beam | 5.8 | 6.3 | 5.5 | 6.6 | 4.8 | 6.0 |
| Displacement | 700 | 575 | 485 | 992 | 900 | 900 |
| Ballast | — | — | — | — | — | 300 |
| Sail Area | — | — | — | 215 | 133 | 150 |
| Performance | ||||||
| SA/Disp | — | — | — | 34.7 | 22.9 | 25.8 |
| Bal/Disp | — | — | — | — | — | 33.3 |
| Comfort | — | — | 5.3 | — | 11.8 | 9.1 |
| Capsize | — | — | — | 2.63 | 1.97 | 2.49 |
| Hull Speed | — | — | 5.0 | — | 5.0 | 4.8 |