Chet.. The ballast debate..

Posted By: Jack, h23.5 Second Sojourn..
Date: 5/11/09 5:56a.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

In Response To: Chet I put lead in my 18 at one time (pic) (John Stevens P-23)

revolved around physics. It takes more energy to move an extra ballast. When loading the P-21 specs into my power model, I get a reduction of .2 knots by adding 250 lbs of additional weight to a P-21. Yes it makes it more stable, but when you increase sail area to re-gain lost speed, you are at the same point again. Hence the debate between adding ballast, adding additional crew, trimming sails better, or reducing sail earlier?? No best answer for everyone, and as conditions change so does the options. Since my background is from sailing planing boats, I lean towards the reducing ballast side of the argument, or if you need to, add rail meat.