Waterline length

This is one of the more important factors for predicting kayak performance. Unlike length over all, the waterline length indicates how much of the boat is actually in the water. It is only that part of the kayak that will affect how the boat handles in the water. Waterline length will affect speed, maneuverability, tracking and has some affect on stability. It should be noted, that for most hull designs the length of the waterline depends on the load of the kayak.

In general, boats with longer waterlines will have faster speed potential, track straighter, be less maneuverable, and more stable.

Likewise in general boats with longer waterlines, have more wetted surface and therefore generates more resistance as low velocities.

See also: The myth of length