Dolphin 17 vs Ranger 16
How do the Dolphin 17 and Ranger 16 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
| Dolphin 17 | Ranger 16 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 16.8 ft5.11 m | 16.7 ft5.08 m |
| Waterline length | 15.0 ft4.57 m | —— |
| Beam | 6.0 ft1.83 m | 6.0 ft1.83 m |
| Draft | 4.3 ft1.30 m | 3.0 ft0.90 m |
| Displacement | 725 lb329 kg | 450 lb204 kg |
| Ballast | —— | —— |
| Sail area | 127 ft²11.8 m² | 154 ft²14.3 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 25.18 | 41.96 |
| Displacement / Length | 96 | — |
| Comfort ratio | 6.6 | — |
| Capsize screening | 2.67 | 3.13 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.2 | — |
Dolphin 17 vs Ranger 16: the short version
- The Dolphin 17 and Ranger 16 are close in length (16.8 ft5.11 m vs 16.7 ft5.08 m ).
- The Dolphin 17 is heavier, displacing about 61% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Ranger 16 carries the more powerful rig (42.0 vs 25.2), favouring lighter-air performance.
- By the capsize screening formula the Dolphin 17 rates better for offshore work (2.67 vs 3.13).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.