Principles of Yacht Design

Over the last 30 years a revolution has taken place in yacht design. The evidence is plain to see, from a whole variety of cruising yachts right through to the ultra high tech racing machines. Simultaneously the impetus given to yacht research has been tremendous, stimulated partly by the demands of such high profile media events as the America's Cup, BOC or Whitbread campaigns. This book is the first for many years to examine every aspect of the process of yacht design. Throughout the book the authors have used a newly designed 40-footer to demonstrate the practical application of yacht design theory. Beginning with the yacht's specifications, the authors explain the geometry of the hull by means of lines plans and introduce CAD techniques. Hydrostatics and stability in calm water as well as waves are described in detail, as is the design of the hull, keel and rudder. Next the aerodynamics of the sails and the influence this has on the shape of the sail plan is examined. Methods are introduced for finding the balance of the yacht, and there is a short chapter on selecting the correct propeller and engine. Structural aspects of the design are treated comprehensively throughout. Loads acting on the hull and rig are identified and methods for computing them introduced. There is also a discussion of different fibre reinforced plastics, including sandwich laminates. Finally, practical matters such as the layout of the cockpit, deck and cabin are discussed, and a complete weight calculation is provided for the 40-footer. The book is richly illustrated with explanatory diagrams, and although the subject is complicated, the authors treat it in a remarkably clear and concise manner, making iteasily understandable for both professionals and amateurs interested in the principles of yacht design.