Formula 18 vs Microsail
How do the Formula 18 and Microsail compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
| Formula 18 | Microsail | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 18.1 ft5.52 m | 18.0 ft5.50 m |
| Waterline length | —— | 16.4 ft5.00 m |
| Beam | 8.5 ft2.60 m | 8.0 ft2.45 m |
| Draft | 4.6 ft1.40 m | 3.6 ft1.10 m |
| Displacement | 397 lb180 kg | 1,323 lb600 kg |
| Ballast | —— | 507 lb230 kg |
| Sail area | 229 ft²21.3 m² | —— |
| SA / Displacement | 67.83 | — |
| Displacement / Length | — | 134 |
| Comfort ratio | — | 7.5 |
| Capsize screening | 4.64 | 2.93 |
| Hull speed (kn) | — | 5.4 |
Formula 18 vs Microsail: the short version
- The Formula 18 and Microsail are close in length (18.1 ft5.52 m vs 18.0 ft5.50 m ).
- The Microsail is heavier, displacing about 233% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- By the capsize screening formula the Microsail rates better for offshore work (2.93 vs 4.64).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.