Com-pac 16 vs DS-16
How do the Com-pac 16 and DS-16 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Com-pac 16 
DS-16 | Com-pac 16 | DS-16 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 16.0 ft4.88 m | 16.0 ft4.88 m |
| Waterline length | 14.0 ft4.27 m | 14.3 ft4.37 m |
| Beam | 6.0 ft1.83 m | 6.0 ft1.83 m |
| Draft | 1.5 ft0.46 m | 4.0 ft1.22 m |
| Displacement | 1,100 lb499 kg | 500 lb227 kg |
| Ballast | 450 lb204 kg | 135 lb61 kg |
| Sail area | 120 ft²11.1 m² | 155 ft²14.4 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 18.02 | 39.37 |
| Displacement / Length | 179 | 76 |
| Comfort ratio | 10.7 | 4.8 |
| Capsize screening | 2.32 | 3.02 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.0 | 5.1 |
Com-pac 16 vs DS-16: the short version
- The Com-pac 16 and DS-16 are close in length (16.0 ft4.88 m vs 16.0 ft4.88 m ).
- The Com-pac 16 is heavier, displacing about 120% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the DS-16 carries the more powerful rig (39.4 vs 18.0), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Com-pac 16 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Com-pac 16 rates better for offshore work (2.32 vs 3.02).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.