[el]

This discussion has been a great help. After re-reading it, I still have one issue in my mind that is unresolved.

JeffH, if I may, I would like for you to take a different approach to your boat selection (your way is ass-backwards from mine). Using the numbers you have used above lets say I''m looking at 2 sailboats of the SAME length - 40''. Boat A is a cruiser/racer with a 12,000lb displacement and boat B is a cruiser that displaces 22,000 lbs. As suggested earlier, we load her with 2000lbs for an extended cruise. Again, both boats are 40''. I realize that the heavier boat will need more sail to move her and the issues that come with that. 1) which boat should be more seakindly in heavy weather? AND 2) Won''t the lighter boat''s sailing characteristics be more negatively effected by the additional weight?

thanks
el