What is a boats deadrise?

A boat's deadrise refers to the angle between the bottom of the hull and a horizontal plane. It is typically measured at the transom, which is the squared-off back end of the boat.

Deadrise is an essential characteristic that determines a boat's ride quality, stability, and handling in different water conditions. Boats can have varying degrees of deadrise, with higher deadrise angles typically found in offshore and deep V-hull boats designed for rougher waters, while lower deadrise angles are common in flat-bottomed and inshore boats for calm waters.

A higher deadrise angle, usually ranging from 18 to 25 degrees, allows the boat to better cut through waves, resulting in a smoother ride and reduced impact on passengers. This angle helps displace water more effectively, preventing the boat from slamming down on the waves, which can be uncomfortable and potentially damaging to the vessel.

On the other hand, boats with lower deadrise angles, typically ranging from 8 to 14 degrees, provide increased stability and a flatter planing surface. These boats are more suitable for calm or shallow waters, such as lakes or rivers, where ride comfort is less of a priority. Lower deadrise angles also contribute to faster planing speeds and improved fuel efficiency.

The deadrise angle is just one factor to consider when choosing a boat as it interacts with other design elements like hull shape, length, weight distribution, and hull material. Ultimately, the appropriate deadrise angle depends on the intended use of the boat and the water conditions it will encounter.