K2 vs Thistle
How do the K2 and Thistle compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
K2 
Thistle | K2 | Thistle | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 17.0 ft5.18 m | 17.0 ft5.18 m |
| Waterline length | —— | 17.0 ft5.18 m |
| Beam | 8.0 ft2.44 m | 6.0 ft1.83 m |
| Draft | —— | 4.5 ft1.37 m |
| Displacement | 342 lb155 kg | 515 lb234 kg |
| Ballast | —— | —— |
| Sail area | 171 ft²15.9 m² | 191 ft²17.7 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 55.95 | 47.56 |
| Displacement / Length | — | 47 |
| Comfort ratio | — | 4.3 |
| Capsize screening | 4.58 | 2.99 |
| Hull speed (kn) | — | 5.5 |
K2 vs Thistle: the short version
- The K2 and Thistle are close in length (17.0 ft5.18 m vs 17.0 ft5.18 m ).
- The Thistle is heavier, displacing about 51% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the K2 carries the more powerful rig (55.9 vs 47.6), favouring lighter-air performance.
- By the capsize screening formula the Thistle rates better for offshore work (2.99 vs 4.58).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.