Bristol 29.9 vs Bristol Caravel 22
How do the Bristol 29.9 and Bristol Caravel 22 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 Caravel 22 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 29.9 ft9.12 m | 22.0 ft6.71 m |
| Waterline length | 24.0 ft7.32 m | 19.5 ft5.94 m |
| Beam | 10.2 ft3.10 m | 7.8 ft2.36 m |
| Draft | 4.3 ft1.32 m | 3.5 ft1.07 m |
| Displacement | 8,650 lb3,924 kg | 2,850 lb1,293 kg |
| Ballast | 3,600 lb1,633 kg | 1,150 lb522 kg |
| Sail area | 391 ft²36.3 m² | 205 ft²19.0 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 14.85 | 16.32 |
| Displacement / Length | 279 | 172 |
| Comfort ratio | 23.6 | 14.2 |
| Capsize screening | 1.98 | 2.19 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.6 | 5.9 |
Bristol 29.9 vs Bristol Caravel 22: the short version
- The Bristol 29.9 is the larger boat at 29.9 ft9.12 m LOA versus 22.0 ft6.71 m for the Bristol Caravel 22.
- The Bristol 29.9 is heavier, displacing about 204% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Bristol Caravel 22 carries the more powerful rig (16.3 vs 14.8), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Bristol 29.9 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Bristol 29.9 rates better for offshore work (1.98 vs 2.19).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.