Formula 18 vs Y flyer
How do the Formula 18 and Y flyer compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
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Formula 18 
Y flyer | Formula 18 | Y flyer | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 18.1 ft5.52 m | 18.2 ft5.54 m |
| Waterline length | —— | 14.5 ft4.42 m |
| Beam | 8.5 ft2.60 m | 5.7 ft1.73 m |
| Draft | 4.6 ft1.40 m | 4.0 ft1.22 m |
| Displacement | 397 lb180 kg | 500 lb227 kg |
| Ballast | —— | —— |
| Sail area | 229 ft²21.3 m² | 161 ft²15.0 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 67.83 | 40.89 |
| Displacement / Length | — | 73 |
| Comfort ratio | — | 4.9 |
| Capsize screening | 4.64 | 2.86 |
| Hull speed (kn) | — | 5.1 |
Formula 18 vs Y flyer: the short version
- The Formula 18 and Y flyer are close in length (18.1 ft5.52 m vs 18.2 ft5.54 m ).
- The Y flyer is heavier, displacing about 26% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Formula 18 carries the more powerful rig (67.8 vs 40.9), favouring lighter-air performance.
- By the capsize screening formula the Y flyer rates better for offshore work (2.86 vs 4.64).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.