Desired features vs. boat capabilities

[mitiempo]

That wasn't my point - the usefulness (or lack) of the capsize formula was.

A less stable boat, if heavier for its length, has a better capsize ratio.

In Europe there are many boats that are light and rated Cat 1 for offshore use.

A good offshore boat doesn't have to be heavy.

[Dean101]

Personally, I've been taking all these ratios with a grain of salt. I'm sure that other factors play into the final amount of stability any boat has. I just consider them to be a general indicator. What is your opinions on the shape of the stern? Some of the round stern boats as well as the double-ender's appeal to me. I'm curious if they handle differently in a following sea.

[killarney_sailor]

I think that everything being equal (like good designs in both cases), which may or may not be the situation, a canoe stern should not matter much to how the boat handles. I think it is an aesthetic decision, Be aware that the rounded, typically narrow shape does take away some practicality since you lose valuable storage space or living space (depending on the design), and will have more issues with mounting davits, an arch for solar panels, vane steering, having a walk -through transom which makes dinghy access and swimming easier. All part of that grand series of compromises that comes into play. Of all of these, we only have the accomodation issue (aft cabin) and self-steering (the manufacturers generally can make a mount for a canoe stern); but many newer cruising boats have open transoms and often davits and arches. You pay your money and take your choice.

[MarkSF]

Originally Posted by Minnewaska

They are not. For every definition I've seen, there are dozens of examples of boats that fit one definition but have successfully completed voyages in another category. I think defining the skipper is a better way to define the boats capabilities.

This boat crossed the Atlantic. It's 13 ft long.

Edit: this is an Internet linked photo. If anyone knows how to resize it smaller, please PM me and I will fix it. Thx.

This one crossed the North Sea. A Wayfarer centreboard dinghy.

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However, I think most of us would be unhappy with the safety margin Frank Dye voyaged with.