Kirt,

I've towed my fair share of cats when running regattas. If I was trying I'm fairly certain I could make them plane.

I think the only real question is at what speed.



I expect that will vary and be related to basic things like suface area, angle of attack (which will create the dynamic lift) and total weight.

The only real way to find out is to conduct your experiment.



Making a boat plane when being driven by the wind may be quite fifferent (than when towed) because the forward thrust is not in line with the drag (changing angle of attack) as it would be when being towed. Having said that what could be learned by your experiment may bring us closer to plaing when driven by the wind.

For example, it may assist in quantifying the problem to aid in say the design of a spnnaker/hull combination that gives just the right amount of lift and forward drive. Possibly the right balance could have you planing downwind at least.

In my ignorant state, I feel sure it is possible



Regards,

Phill

I know that the voices in my head aint real,
but they have some pretty good ideas.
There is no such thing as a quick fix and I've never had free lunch!