Importance of a Cat's center clearance

[mikereed100]

Cap,

Here's a previous discussion:
http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/...ter-12012.html

Keep in mind that bridgedeck clearance is only one variable among many as you choose a boat. You may find that some slamming on an old St Francis is acceptable if you like the way it sails otherwise.

Mike

[capcook]

Thanks all... appreciate the input on this... I have been reading a lot about the topic... looks like some of the new designs have opted to channel water between the hulls like this 44' Lagoon.. .I wonder if it works to just give up on bridgedeck clearance and use this type of V hull.. does it reduce slamming ?

[sandy daugherty]

Center nacelles on cats divert the water that might otherwise slam a flat bridgedeck. It changes the noise from a slam to a drum roll. It also slows the vessel everytime it dips into the water. It also provides additional storage, room for a central engine compartment or a foot well. It cost more to build. Short of extreme conditions, slamming is just an annoyance that compromises performance.
So: attention to slamming issues is required in performance oriented designs and is a secondary concern in cruising oriented designs. So are windage, light weight, sail area, hull beam width, and so on. You don't need to be a naval architect to know the difference; if its a feature found on an Outremer, its performance. If its found on a Packet Cat 35, its a motorsailing condomaran. If its as robust as a PDQ 44 or a Privilege, its Rolls-Royce pricey. If its cheap there's a reason.