Dolphin 17 vs G-Cat 5.0
How do the Dolphin 17 and G-Cat 5.0 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Dolphin 17 | Dolphin 17 | G-Cat 5.0 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 16.8 ft5.11 m | 16.7 ft5.08 m |
| Waterline length | 15.0 ft4.57 m | 15.5 ft4.72 m |
| Beam | 6.0 ft1.83 m | 8.0 ft2.44 m |
| Draft | 4.3 ft1.30 m | 1.1 ft0.33 m |
| Displacement | 725 lb329 kg | 340 lb154 kg |
| Ballast | —— | —— |
| Sail area | 127 ft²11.8 m² | 210 ft²19.5 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 25.18 | 68.97 |
| Displacement / Length | 96 | 41 |
| Comfort ratio | 6.6 | 2.1 |
| Capsize screening | 2.67 | 4.58 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.2 | 5.3 |
Dolphin 17 vs G-Cat 5.0: the short version
- The Dolphin 17 and G-Cat 5.0 are close in length (16.8 ft5.11 m vs 16.7 ft5.08 m ).
- The Dolphin 17 is heavier, displacing about 113% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the G-Cat 5.0 carries the more powerful rig (69.0 vs 25.2), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Dolphin 17 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Dolphin 17 rates better for offshore work (2.67 vs 4.58).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.