Displacement / Length Ratio (D/L)

The result of this calculation is a non-dimensional figure that provides a general guide to overall performance level, load capacity and relative comfort at sea.

D/L range of values: under 100
100 to 150
150 to 225
225 to 275
over 275
 Ultralight Racing
Light Racing
Light Cruiser/Racer
Medium Cruiser
Heavy Cruiser


D/L Calculator The formula 

         Displacement in pounds / 2240	
D/L = -------------------------------------
        ( .01 x Length of waterline ) ^ 3
Displacement in lbs.
LWL in decimal feet
D/L Ratio =


Caution & Warning....

Exercise care when calculating this ratio. The sales info. provided for some commercial designs will sometimes base this figure on something less than typical loaded displacement. This can make a design look great on paper, but performance under real-world conditions will not measure up. As always, buyer beware!