Performance Boat Weight Boat Weight, Hull Design and Performance by David Pascoe L ight weight equals faster speeds plus better fuel economy. That's the advertising hawk we see in boat ads over and over these days. Actually, it is, but unfortunately that is only part of the story. The other side of the story is the one that's rarely told. It should go without saying that in discussing boat weight, there are certain relevancies we have to deal with.
Boats can obviously be either too light, or too heavy.
And for each type, in most cases there is a more or less ideal compromise. The central advertising claims give the impression that the lighter the boat, the better it will be. Now, anyone with a modicum of experience knows that this isn't true. A boat that is too light is going to bob like a cork, making it an extremely uncomfortable vehicle for passengers. It may be fine for racing where the occupants wear helmets and other protective gear, but not exactly what you'd want for cruising or taking some kids or older folks out for a tour on anything but a calm day.