Originally Posted by CigDaze (Post 1852692)

Most people laugh when I explain it, most folks thing it's simply stylistic, but the fact is that the beak (and the flare which is evident down the length of most of the hull) has a huge impact on the aerodynamics of Fountain's hulls. Not only does it provide a substantial deal of bow lift, but this flare, or lip, helps greatly streamline and separate the flow of air down the hullsides and the deck. It alleviates a good deal of 'swirling' as air tends to spill from the front sides and onto the deck. This creates a vortexing movement of air on most boats. I've done some CFD modeling on various hulls, and reggie definately has something with his beak. ;)