C-Dory seaworthyness

tpbrady · Posted: Fri Mar 17, 2006 7:22 pm Post subject:

I can only offer my one year of experience in my 22, but on more than one occasion last year coming into Whittier directly into the wind with 2 to 3' seas, I consistently was able to make a comfortable 12-14 mph with the bow trimmed down, no pounding, and never once did my diet coke fall off the dash. On a couple of those occasions I passed some larger 24/26 foot Bayliners. In all fairness, the Bayliners were not properly trimmed for the seas meaning they probably didn't have or use their trim tabs.

The worst conditions I have been in was 3 to 4 footers almost on the starboard beam that built up to 5 footers (all I could see was water out the window). They were fairly long period, but after about 20 minutes I got tired of the side to side motion and trying to hang on and did a starboard "tack". It took me a mile or so out of my way, but it was a whole lot more comfortable.

The issue here is as much riding comfort as seaworthiness. I don't want to make a generalization, but a poorly trimmed boat on step in moderate seas will almost inevitably ride worse than a properly trimmed boat regardless of hull design.

dogon dory · Posted: Fri Mar 17, 2006 10:50 pm Post subject:

Sorry, Folks - Post Deleted By Author

katie Marie III · Posted: Fri Mar 17, 2006 10:52 pm Post subject:

we will be having an Eastern shore get together on june 2. at lankford marina near chestertown. last year we had 30 boats. all of your questions will be answered here.

@ C · Posted: Fri Mar 17, 2006 11:06 pm Post subject:

I would like to thank all of you wonderful people who took the time to respond to my initial post.
The responses have been thought provoking and I guess I was asking a simple question, and that has proved not to be the case.
I certainly agree that the skill of the captain has much to do with the overall boating experience. When I asked the question, I was thinking of the overall hull performance in differing sea conditions.
I am aiming at a 25' C-Dory, so I guess I am trying to compare it to my previous 26' Bayliner Ciera. I am planning for a future cruising boat to go great distances at the best comfort. This is called retirement. I only want to venture off shore when condx are favorable and when necessary for travelling.
Several excellent points have been made, and while I consider myself an experienced boater, that only lasts until I meet the next unfamiliar situation.
I need to ride one, which I have not done yet. Anyone in the Cheasapeake Bay area game?
Thanks all again for your thoughts
73
Bill

@ C · Posted: Fri Mar 17, 2006 11:09 pm Post subject:

Hey, where is Stoney Creek?
Bill