'Sailwave' also has a Calculator facility. However, I'm not totally convinced about the weight being a significant factor due to the F18 argument. I'm sailing the F16 all up at approx 170kgs (374lbs) F18's are likely to be in the region of 330kgs (726lbs). Therefore I'm roughly 50% lighter but I certainly don't pass a F18 upwind as quick as an 'A' passes me. Yes, the F18 has a lot more sail area and longer water line but realistically they are slightly faster boats in all but the lightest of wind conditions (upwind).
Mark, Agree with that, but they also have 2 on the wire and so have more righting moment(RM) and so can generate more power and more speed.
