Dumb question...DRAFT of an inboard

(nvip9r) · (nvip9r) **Join Date: Feb 2004** 09-24-2008, 12:40 PM

I tried to do some searching but still confused. What exactly is the draft of a boat, so when they say 18" of draft (Malibu). Is it the distance from the waterline to the bottom of the propeller/rudder? Or is it just the waterline to the bottom of the hull? Of course this is while it is just sitting in the water?

Thanks

(allen) · (allen) **Join Date: Apr 2005** 09-24-2008, 12:44 PM

Internet is your friend.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Draft_(hull)

Shallowest water a boat can navigate.

(peachman) · (peachman) **Join Date: May 2004** 09-24-2008, 12:46 PM

Lowest point of the boat to the water line.

JT

(rallyart) · (rallyart) **Join Date: Nov 2006** 09-24-2008, 1:08 PM

As above that means that on an18" draft Malibu then the unloaded boat can float in 18" of water without the prop (in the case of the Malibu) hitting the bottom.
When it's loaded with fuel, people or ballast it requires more water to float. The boat also drops as you start to accelerate so the water should be deeper again.

(wake1823) · (wake1823) **Join Date: Dec 2005** 09-24-2008, 1:20 PM

your also a few inches higher out fo the water when on plane with no weight ( ballast)

(nvip9r) · (nvip9r) **Join Date: Feb 2004** 09-24-2008, 1:55 PM

So it is the distance from the waterline to the prop (becuase that is the lowest point in a boat).
Thanks...trying to see what my old boat is so I have a reference when looking at new boats. My boat ramp is pretty damn shallow.

(rodmcinnis) · (rodmcinnis) **Join Date: Sep 2002** 09-24-2008, 3:28 PM

Also keep in mind that the water line changes with load in the boat, where the load is, and also with throttle. When you hit it and the bow goes up the stern goes down, increasing your draft.

I would not try to motor in water that was less than 2 feet deep.....