Seagoing rowing boats of high performance are difficult to design because of the multiplicity of conflicting factors to do with ergonomics and seakeeping, combined with the low power available to drive the boat.

The type of use is also important. A boat designed for 2/3 hour excursions might be quite different in hull form compared to a flat out racer designed to race over a 45 minute course.

The diagram below illustrates some of the factors that go into making a good rowing boat. As can be seen, almost every factor conflicts with another. For example, speed dictates a narrow hull, whilst for stability a wider hull is required. Because of the limited power available the compromises inherent in a good seaboat design are very finely drawn.

It is important therefore to understand the real requirement and then balance the conflicting factors. The computer aids help, but judgement and personal experience are also important in achieving a balanced design.

This note is intended as a non technical aide memoir to help people make the right decisions as to their boat. The note is split into 3 sections. The first discusses some of the contradictory factors in the diagram above, the second looks at hull structure, and the last attempts to summarise what leading particulars should look like. The issues are discussed using a coxed double sculled skiff as a reference, mostly because it represents a frequent requirement from the marketplace.

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