Length Waterline (LWL) – Definition and Pronunciation
What is LWL?
LWL, or Length Waterline, is the length of a boat measured along the water’s surface where the hull meets the water at the fore and aft ends. This actual load waterline length determines the hull’s theoretical maximum speed for displacement vessels. It may differ slightly from the design (datum) waterline length due to loading conditions.
Examples of LWL
Consequently, a displacement yacht that cannot produce a longer wave than its effective waterline permits is trapped in its own wave system and can only sail as fast as the wave; thus the ultimate speed is 2,43 √ LWL (speed in knots and length in metres).
From “Choosing the Right Yacht – Essential Considerations for Every Sailor”.
The LWL is more important, hydrodynamically speaking, than the length on deck. In fact, older racing classes were commonly described by their waterline length rather than their overall length.
From “Basic Equipment of a Sailboat and Their Characteristics”.
Sailboats built before 1960 commonly had waterline lengths (LWL) 10 to 15 feet shorter than the length overall (LOA). The reason for this was the customary styling of previous years.
From “Types of Sailboats and Their Management”.
Pronunciation of LWL
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