There were compelling reasons for starting there. The 65 runs flat, and unlike boats that lose speed when the bow comes down, the 65 Convertible runs faster. The new 70 shares the same 18' beam as the 65. Another reason for this beam is the weight issue. John Adams, senior vice-president for product development and engineering at Hatteras, was concerned that if the beam grew, displacement could get out of control and hamper performance.
Weight is the single biggest factor that affects a planing boat's performance.
With fuel, water and holding tanks half full, and the largest engines available, she's 114,500 lb. But I observed another consideration at Capt. The protection of an inside slip makes for quiet, rock-free days and nights in busy harbors. The master stateroom is amidships and sprawls across the entire beam. Hard wood cabinetry is built-in, including the desk and night tables.