Vhulls

Vhulls refer to monohull boats whose underwater profile is shaped as a pronounced V, or deep-V. The design is intended to improve seakeeping and ride comfort by slicing through waves rather than riding over them. The degree of the V is described by the deadrise angle, with deeper V hulls preferred in rough seas and flatter V in calm conditions.

Advantages include better wave penetration, reduced pounding, and a smoother ride at higher speeds; disadvantages include increased initial instability at rest, higher wetted surface area, and greater fuel consumption at low speeds. Performance depends on factors such as length-to-beam ratio, weight distribution, and whether the hull is planing or displacement-based.

Materials commonly used for Vhulls include fiberglass-reinforced plastic, aluminum, and composites; many deep-V boats utilize planing hull concepts or stepped hulls to further reduce drag at speed. The hull shape influences spray, interior space, and payload capacity, with deeper V sections typically taking more space but offering enhanced sea-keeping.

Applications of Vhulls span powerboats, fishing boats, patrol craft, and high-speed ferries where rough-water performance is prioritized. They appear in forms ranging from modest recreational runabouts to professional and military vessels. Variants include stepped deep-V designs that reduce drag for high-speed operations and improve fuel efficiency at planing speeds.

Related concepts include deep-V hulls, planing hulls, and deadrise angle.