Kite vs Newport 16
How do the Kite and Newport 16 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Kite 
Newport 16 | Kite | Newport 16 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 11.6 ft3.53 m | 15.6 ft4.75 m |
| Waterline length | 10.9 ft3.33 m | 13.7 ft4.17 m |
| Beam | 5.0 ft1.52 m | 6.3 ft1.91 m |
| Draft | 3.0 ft0.91 m | 3.8 ft1.14 m |
| Displacement | 165 lb75 kg | 750 lb340 kg |
| Ballast | —— | 250 lb113 kg |
| Sail area | 78 ft²7.2 m² | 143 ft²13.3 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 41.49 | 27.72 |
| Displacement / Length | 57 | 131 |
| Comfort ratio | 2.7 | 7.1 |
| Capsize screening | 3.65 | 2.75 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 4.4 | 5.0 |
Kite vs Newport 16: the short version
- The Newport 16 is the larger boat at 15.6 ft4.75 m LOA versus 11.6 ft3.53 m for the Kite.
- The Newport 16 is heavier, displacing about 355% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Kite carries the more powerful rig (41.5 vs 27.7), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Newport 16 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Newport 16 rates better for offshore work (2.75 vs 3.65).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.