Skip to content

Hull Speed-Length Ratio Record Check

Compare a recorded through-water speed and same-condition waterline length with an externally selected speed-length-ratio reference.

Use this result well

Inputs that matter
Documented same-condition waterline length, calibrated recorded speed through water and an externally selected hull/condition-specific speed-length-ratio reference
Output to expect
Recorded speed-length ratio, entered reference speed at that LWL and signed speed difference
How it works
Reconciles an entered dimensionless ratio; it does not turn 1.34 or any other coefficient into a universal maximum hull speed
  • Align LWL, load, trim, draft and recorded STW; verify the external reference applies to the exact displacement hull/form/condition and do not substitute LOA or SOG.
  • Use builder/designer trials, powering/resistance data and qualified naval-architecture or marine guidance for maximum speed, power, efficiency, modifications, seaworthiness or operation.

Choose your path

Built around the job you need to finish

Reconcile a recorded STW/LWL speed-length ratio with an external hull/condition-specific reference without calling one coefficient a universal hull-speed limit.

Owner reviewing a sea-trial record

Keep LWL, load/trim/draft and calibrated STW aligned.

Enter the documented LWL, recorded STW and exact-condition external reference ratio.

Sees a reproducible ratio and signed difference rather than a maximum-speed promise.

Technician comparing performance records

Avoid mixing LOA, SOG or unrelated hull/reference data.

Compare only same-frame records and inspect the reference speed derived from the entered ratio.

Can trace a discrepancy without grading hull efficiency.

Owner considering power or hull changes

Keep resistance, powering and seaworthiness decisions outside one ratio.

Use builder/designer trials and qualified naval-architecture or marine guidance.

Does not authorize operation or modification from the worksheet.

Was this tool helpful?

Reference & details

How it works

Recorded Dimensionless Ratio

Recorded speed through water is divided by the square root of entered LWL in feet. LWL must describe the same load, trim and draft condition.

Reference Stays User-Sourced

The entered external ratio is multiplied by the same square-root LWL to create a comparison speed. The tool does not silently assume 1.34 or any other coefficient applies universally.

Record Check, Not a Speed Limit

The signed difference compares two entered records only. Hull form, displacement, power, propulsor, appendages, loading, depth, wind, waves and current remain external performance factors.

Updated: August 2026

Example Scenarios

Enter documented same-condition LWL and calibrated STW to reproduce the recorded speed-length ratio.

Enter an exact-hull, exact-condition ratio and inspect the derived reference speed plus signed difference.

Use the arithmetic to organize records, then rely on trials, resistance/powering evidence and qualified marine guidance for consequential decisions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Entering overall length instead of same-condition LWL

Use documented waterline length for the same load, trim and draft as the recorded STW.

Calling 1.34 a universal maximum hull speed

Treat every coefficient as an entered comparison reference. It does not certify maximum speed, powering, efficiency or seaworthiness.

FAQ

No. The page accepts it only as an entered reference. Applicability depends on hull form, condition and the purpose of the source data.

No. This contract uses recorded speed through water; SOG includes current and changes the comparison frame.

Only that entered recorded STW is above the speed derived from the entered ratio. It is not an efficiency grade or performance diagnosis.

No. Powering, resistance, structure, stability and operation require vessel-specific engineering evidence and qualified guidance.

See the U.S. Navy Towing and Salvage Manuals and US Sailing speed-guide material linked in the authority panel.

About Hull Speed-Length Ratio Record Check

This worksheet reconciles one recorded STW/LWL ratio with an externally selected same-hull reference. It does not predict resistance, power, maximum speed, efficiency or safe operation.