Understanding the Ratios

[Ishmael]

So all the threads about "blue water" boats vs. "coastal cruisers" got me to looking at some of the ratios that are used to categorize different designs. Specifically, I wanted to compare the Pearson Triton (28.5') with the Pearson Vanguard (32'). As a "control" compare/contrast vessel, I went with the Bristol Channel Cutter (a known, heavy, well-respected, true "blue water" boat).

When people have asked for good "blue water" designs in the 30' range (and low budget), people seem quick to recommend the Pearson Triton, but they almost always dismiss the Vanguard as a "coastal cruiser". But their numbers (when plugged into the different ratios) are almost identical across the board. What gives?

Then I noticed that even though the Vanguard (and all those old CCA designs) are typically called "tender", the Ballast/Displacement ratios of both the Triton and the Vanguard are actually higher than that of the BCC which implies that they are "stiffer"/more resistant to heeling. How can that be?