Alpha 180 AF vs Optimist
How do the Alpha 180 AF and Optimist compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Alpha 180 AF 
Optimist | Alpha 180 AF | Optimist | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 8.2 ft2.50 m | 7.7 ft2.36 m |
| Waterline length | —— | 7.2 ft2.18 m |
| Beam | 2.2 ft0.66 m | 771.0 ft235.00 m |
| Draft | —— | 2.0 ft0.61 m |
| Displacement | 39 lb18 kg | 77 lb35 kg |
| Ballast | —— | —— |
| Sail area | —— | —— |
| SA / Displacement | — | — |
| Displacement / Length | — | 94 |
| Comfort ratio | — | 0.0 |
| Capsize screening | 2.56 | 724.91 |
| Hull speed (kn) | — | 3.6 |
Alpha 180 AF vs Optimist: the short version
- The Alpha 180 AF and Optimist are close in length (8.2 ft2.50 m vs 7.7 ft2.36 m ).
- The Optimist is heavier, displacing about 97% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- By the capsize screening formula the Alpha 180 AF rates better for offshore work (2.56 vs 724.91).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.