Deep "v" Vrs. average hull ??

[searay4now]

I live along the Great Lakes, Lake Erie to be specific. The Lake does become a bit Choppy at times, I just purchased a 1991 185 Sea Ray Bowrider. it measures 20'5". It's hull is more of a low profile. It is not as deep as the Deep V's at this length, what potential problems might I ecpect while boating? and what precautions would you reccomend?

 

[DJ]

Re: Deep "v" Vrs. average hull ??

searay4now,<br /><br />The degree of "V" in a boat is called deadrise. A true deep V would be a boat with something in the range of 15 dgrees or more of deadrise. I do not know what your boat is but I would suspect it is a modified V. <br /><br />The issues you will face in choppy water are: pounding and spray. The best way to operate the boat in choppy water is to trim "IN" and let the bow cut the waves.<br /><br />Do not make the mistake of trimming "OUT". That raises the bow and reduces visisbility and makes the flatter portions of the hull take the waves, which equals a rough ride.

 

[POINTER94]

Re: Deep "v" Vrs. average hull ??

sr4now,<br /><br />Nothing good or bad about the design. At low speeds it is supposed to be more steady, at the sacrifice of high speed deep v performance/ride. There is nothing you need to expect or plan for based on this design. Maybe some extra wide cup holders to handle the pounding that may occur. In terms of seaworthiness it is as good as her captain. <br /><br />JB's advise on the trim is right on the mark (of course) and if you want to add trim tabs they will help with attitude control beyond the limits of outdrive trim. I would reduce speed in an adverse sea below that of a true deep v but as an open bow boat, I can't imagine you challenging the weather on lake erie. FYI I think you have a great boat.

 

[KCook]

Re: Deep "v" Vrs. average hull ??

Trim depends on water conditions and boat speed. There can be circumstances where trimming out is not a mistake. Just something you have to experiment with.<br /><br />Kelly Cook

 

[rschnack]

Re: Deep "v" Vrs. average hull ??

That is a popular hull here in northern Michigan. I have seen quite a few venture out into Northern Lake Michigan with downriggers on looking to catch salmon in the fall. They seem to ride pretty good in the rough. I would come in if I saw "whitecaps" though. I have heard of several of these bowriders taking on water by plowing under the waves. Scary stuff!<br />RCS