While I agree with what you're saying about the 37 OL, people are typically pretty polarized in their beliefs... If someone doesn't want to open their mind up to the fact that there's a good reason the market in general has gone to stepped bottom boats, chances are you aren't going to change that person's mind at this point.

IMO, steps obviously offer a lot more efficiency, give up almost nothing in the rough, and I'm yet to see any handling issues with my 37 OL... Although I've never tried or even understood why someone would want to make a sharp 110mph 90° turn in open water either! So yes, I can't imagine intentionally ruling out a stepped boat. In fact, I can't imagine wanting a straight bottomed boat if given the option! But that's just me...

Well, there's a few of us fossils left that don't give a hoot about steps.

In all speed range or only at top end?

:drink:

All speed ranges without question. And Jon those originial 46 Cougars are pretty cool!!

I'd say at any significant speed range, such as on plane and up.

I've always regarded steps as applied to V-hulls with some trepidation. I can appreciate that if properly designed and integrated into the hull, they will increase efficiency while retaining stability. I just can't seem to shake the notion (or unfounded superstition, depending on your perspective) that a traditional running surface is more predictable in its operating tendencies.

Were I to purchase a new offshore boat, I would err on the side of caution and select a straight hull. I've always admired the design philosophy of Sutphen, and particularly like the specification of their 400 Defender.

It all boils down (eventually) to a matter of personal preference, and one can't justifiably be knocked in favor of the other, all things considered (everyone loves a neutral stance don't they?).

Sorry for off topic, but I am over-inquisitive;

What happen with hull efficiency if you have two virtual super light boats with 30 ft, 3.500 lb and more than 400 bhp . Boat with excelent selected surface drives, prop etc and
- one with properly steps
- other with properly padd kel
Forget stability... I am curious only round of efficiency.

Saber! 989-233-0878. www.saberboats.com

Thanks,..............Still working on it

Can't wait till it's done! :drink:



Jon