Hull Slide.-

[Sea Rider]

Is there a product on the market that could be applied to boat's hull to achieve a much better hull slide at speed ? Would polishing wax meet this requirement ?

Happy Boating

 

[roscoe]

possibly.

But studies have shown that too smooth of a surface will actually slow a boat down.

 

[Sea Rider]

Who happens to have such studies to have a look ? The hull surface is already smooth to touch was just wondering if applying polishing wax would make the hull to slide with the least possible water resistance to obtain if possible slight more top end speed.

Happy Boating

 

[boobie]

Years ago on racing boats they used to ruff up the surface that was in the water on full plane. It wouldn't want to stick to the water.

 

[Teamster]

Wax on the bottom of the boat is the worst thing you can do if speed is your objective,..

Think of your boat like a suction cup,..........A smooth surface will hold onto the water better,.....

To go faster you need the little bubbles of air to break free from the waters friction,.....

 

[Chris1956]

Maximize your trim to get as much of the boat out of the water as possible for top speed. You might try a bow lifting or stern lifting propeller, to solve those problems if you have such.

 

[foodfisher]

Similar to golf balls. Dimples go farther faster.

 

[Sea Rider]

Thanks, it's not that have an issue, I'm running top with all the ponies that engine can deliver, seems the original inquiry was badly addressed. What about polishing a hull to be smooth glass as possible. Will polishing increment slightly any top speed provided you have an engine well suited for any boat.

Happy Boating

 

[Chinewalker]

No. As noted, you want it slightly rough. At a microscopic level. My Dad used to wet sand the bottom of his racing hulls with 400 grit to take the gloss off the finish.

Keep in mind, any changes you make along these lines will NOT be felt, and would be hard to measure. Also, what, exactly, is the hull you're working with? A big, heavy fiberglass family bow rider would not likely benefit from such treatment. A lightweight performance hull, maybe. An aluminum fishing boat with rivets and welded seams? Don't waste your time. Make sure the hull is straight and true. A hook or rocker in the keel will likely bleed off performance. Nicks, dings, algae, transducers, pitots, etc. will all rob you of speed.