what is up swung bow?

[elkscout]

I was reading a thread where it was mentioned that an "up swung bow" was one of two characteristics/criteria for a boat to be considered bluewater capable. Something about reserve buoyancy?

Will someone describe this or give another term for this type of bow design?
I googled it, but came up empty handed.

[nolatom]

Probably just means the shear strake rises and curves upward towards the stem, giving more freeboard forward to keep the big seas off the deck much as possible. Sometimes called upswept.

then you have your bow types (clipper, spoon, plumb, etc) but that's a different question

[tager]

I don't understand the need for overhangs, you can design a lot of reserve stability into a plumb bow.

[JohnRPollard]

Originally Posted by tager

I don't understand the need for overhangs, you can design a lot of reserve stability into a plumb bow.

I assume you mean "reserve buoyancy"? Stability is not really part of that equation.

While moderate overhangs and moderately upswept bows do create reserve buoyancy in the bows by virtue of the larger hull volume, more importantly they have an effect on comfort via both the gentler motion they impart and the better ability to deflect spray.

It is very difficult to achieve these benefits with a plum bow, without either making some very distorted hollows in the bow section -- which then has a negative effect on reserve buoyancy -- or creatign a very bluff entry -- which is undesirable as well. Most designers simply go for a moderately fine entry, so comparatively wetter decks and cockpit are a compromise you generally have to live with with a plumb-bowed boat.

Also, from a cruising standpoint, handling ground tackle is complicated by plumb bows. Whereas with an overhang, it is much easier to avoid damaging the bows with anchors and tackle because the bow rakes back and away from ground tackle as it descends from the roller.

[bljones]

Not much. How 'bout you?

And who you calling "swung bow," anyway?

[xsboats]

I see bljones made it to happy hour early today!