SWATH hull technology

[Roy10289]

Hello,thank you for taking our questions.
I saw a program on tv the other day describing the construction and performance of SWATH (small waterplane area twin hull). This is something like a catamaran and a displacement hull put together. The thing I would like to know is could this technology be used to build a sailboat? All the existing boats I saw both on tv and through internet research were motorboats.
This technology is so interesting. If you can suggest a place to go to learn more about this I would appreciate it.

[Glenn Henderson]

Hello Roy,

You are my first question so let's hope I manage the forum correctly. I confess I haven't been on forum's very much. From my limited knowledge of the SWATH technology and applying this to sailboat design leads me to think the concept could work (and possibly work very well) in limited speed/length ratio's. I would "gut feel" the wetted surface would be very high. A designer could juggle with the numbers and possibly come up with a very suitable configuration, numerically. Upon heeling, I would fear the windward hull may create large wave making drag being near or at the surface. If the owner could accept powering in under powered conditions, a case could be made that it would be optimized for up powered sailing. It would be very interesting to play with. A lot of study would be needed to get it right.I really enjoy multi-hulls and presently working on a cat design.