Tank Testing Completed on Dubois Design 100m Sloop.

Tank testing on the Dubois 100m sloop, Design #380, has been successfully completed in the UK.


The Wolfson unit – probably the world’s most experienced research establishment with regard to sailing yachts, were engaged for large model testing.  The Haslar tank (270 metres long) was used with a 1:17 scale model (5.88 metres in length – 19 feet, 3 inches).


The model was towed at scale speeds up to 26 knots.


The test tank is an invaluable tool for the yacht designer. While computer predictions are, today, very accurate, certain aspects of the design benefit from visualisation.  Furthermore, sailing balance, centreboard design, rudder design and other areas vital to the concept can be refined.


The tests confirmed the performance expectations of the designers, who also tested the specialist 16m high-speed tender the yacht will carry at the same time.


Again computer predictions were confirmed. This model was also run in waves as it is a requirement that the vessel should be dry and comfortable in a wide range of sea states.


Finally, the special 7.5 metre sailing yacht was also modelled and tested for performance.


This large project justifies a high level of testing and the Dubois Design team are very happy to report that all went well!


With naval architecture by Dubois, interior design by Josep Juanpere Miret of GCA Arquitectes Associats, and project management by Klaus and Sebastian Allebrodt, this project is progressing according to plan.