Lesson 13

Evolution of the hull - part II

In 1811 a daggerboard was invented. Americans have ever since used it in small scale regattas, together with some type of a ballast. The friction was reduced dramatically, and having a much greater beam than British sailboats, they could also accomplish a lighter hull - this increased the speed of these boats. Proof came very quickly, as the American yachts won the America's Cup in the years of 1885 - 1887. Three boats built by E. Burgess took part: "Puritan", "Mayflower" and "Volunteer" (see picture below), and "Volunteer" won over Watson's "Thistle".

hull5.jpg (9449 bytes)

E. Burgess realized that a sailboat needs a sideway resistance only when on a close haul or reach. When running or on a broad reach, the friction should be minimal, thus the possibility of lowering a daggerboard seemed very advantageous.

Keel/daggerboard yachts are still quite popular in America. The boats also have greater beams, and less displacement than British boats. Daggers are also used in offshore racing events. One of the more popular such boats from the second half of XX century is "Carina". Designed by P.L. Rhodes in 1950, she won the Transatlantic Race in 1955 and again in 1957. Below is the picture of her hull.

hull6.jpg (10595 bytes)

Lesson 14: "Rules of the road"