Bristol 29.9 vs Bristol 40
How do the Bristol 29.9 and Bristol 40 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Bristol 29.9 | Bristol 29.9 | Bristol 40 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 29.9 ft9.12 m | 40.2 ft12.25 m |
| Waterline length | 24.0 ft7.32 m | 27.5 ft8.39 m |
| Beam | 10.2 ft3.10 m | 10.8 ft3.29 m |
| Draft | 4.3 ft1.32 m | 5.4 ft1.65 m |
| Displacement | 8,650 lb3,924 kg | 17,580 lb7,974 kg |
| Ballast | 3,600 lb1,633 kg | 6,500 lb2,948 kg |
| Sail area | 391 ft²36.3 m² | 648 ft²60.2 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 14.85 | 15.33 |
| Displacement / Length | 279 | 376 |
| Comfort ratio | 23.6 | 36.4 |
| Capsize screening | 1.98 | 1.66 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.6 | 7.0 |
Bristol 29.9 vs Bristol 40: the short version
- The Bristol 40 is the larger boat at 40.2 ft12.25 m LOA versus 29.9 ft9.12 m for the Bristol 29.9.
- The Bristol 40 is heavier, displacing about 103% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Bristol 40 carries the more powerful rig (15.3 vs 14.8), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Bristol 40 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Bristol 40 rates better for offshore work (1.66 vs 1.98).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.