C-Lark vs Lightning
How do the C-Lark and Lightning compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
C-Lark 
Lightning | C-Lark | Lightning | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 14.0 ft4.27 m | 19.0 ft5.79 m |
| Waterline length | 14.0 ft4.27 m | 15.3 ft4.65 m |
| Beam | 5.7 ft1.74 m | 5.0 ft1.51 m |
| Draft | 3.5 ft1.07 m | 5.0 ft1.51 m |
| Displacement | 295 lb134 kg | 700 lb318 kg |
| Ballast | —— | —— |
| Sail area | 133 ft²12.4 m² | 189 ft²17.6 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 48.02 | 38.36 |
| Displacement / Length | 48 | 88 |
| Comfort ratio | 3.2 | 7.8 |
| Capsize screening | 3.43 | 2.23 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.0 | 5.2 |
C-Lark vs Lightning: the short version
- The Lightning is the larger boat at 19.0 ft5.79 m LOA versus 14.0 ft4.27 m for the C-Lark.
- The Lightning is heavier, displacing about 137% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the C-Lark carries the more powerful rig (48.0 vs 38.4), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Lightning scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Lightning rates better for offshore work (2.23 vs 3.43).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.