'Wide bow' seems to be the norm, but I was curious about why this is faster than narrower designs? How far back does the extra width go? And is the improvement particular to certain conditions and/or points of sailing?
Ta, Col

Colin,

'Wide' boats are faster, in most conditions, all other things being equal etc, than 'narrow', basically because they plane earlier and stay up for longer. A rule tolerance is exploited around a measurement station near the front bulkhead, and I believe that the rocker is flatter, too. The difference is most noticable in waves than on flat water (don't ask me why!) and in marginal planing conditions. It has been said that the rig gets you upwind, whilst the hull gets you back down again, so if this is true then the 'extra' width is more beneficial offwind than up the beats.

Having said all that, the new boat from Weathermark (I have no interest to declare) is reported to be a different shape again so the coming season might see some apple carts upset...

Hope this helps.

Nick.

PS If I have all this wrong, someone will be along soon to correct it!