Help with a math (?) problem

[Blacksmith]

The state sent me the hull number and license number for the Micro Trawler, and in the stuff that I read, I need to get a capacity plate. Some where I saw a calculation for capacity, but cannot find it. Do any of you know how I go about calculating the capacity of my boat?

Thanks

Stephen

[Blacksmith]

Ray, I added 4 feet to the hull. Plan is 14'6", mine ended up 18'4".

The formula that I saw was something like width times length divided by something else. I just have no idea what the else was

Do you think it would it be helpful to contact the Coast Guard?

Stephen

[lewisboats]

http://angelfire.com/ego/lewisboatworks/Stuff/USCGPamphlet.pdf

All the ins and outs

Steve

[John Weigandt]

The answer is 6 :roll: :wink:

[Blacksmith]

Ray, I read the CG stuff on Tuesday, and my head still hurts! I really liked the part about sink the boat, and see how much water it took. I am going to go with no on that plan. I am going to stop by a boat dealer on the way home from work on Friday, and take a look at the 15 and 16 footers there. Might be some good information for me.

Thank you all for your input, I will let you know what I come up with.

Stephen

[motscg]

Blacksmith,

According to my ASA Sailing Fundamentals book, the USCG Capacity Plate for monohull recreational motorboats under 20' includes the number of persons or LBS. Quoting from the manual:

"For homebuilt boats ... the following formula can be used to estimate the maximum number of persons who can safely ride in a boat on a calm day. Multiply the length (in feet) by the width (in feet) and divide by 15. Round the result down to the nearest whole number. For example, a boat with a length of 20' and a beam of 6' could safely carry (20x6)/15=8 persons on a calm day. This formula assumes that the average weight of a person is 150 pounds - adjustments should be made if this assumption is incorrect. Note that the length of the boat is measured along a straight line from its bow to its stern. The length does not include bowsprits nor does it include rudders, brackets, outboard motors, diving platforms, or other attachments."

Hope this helps.