Hampton Yachts explains its split-chine hull

The new split-chine hull for the Hampton 620, 650 and 720 Pilothouse Motor Yachts is said to be the latest development of the boatbuilder's long-range hull form. Based on the foundation of many fast yachts and commercial craft, it is also a close cousin and predecessor of Hampton's highly successful Endurance hybrid hull.

Hampton's split-chine hull was originally developed to improve the pre-planning and early-planning economy of high speed craft. As most other hulls’ chines that cross the waterline at a steep angle create considerable resistance, naval architect and licensed engineer Howard Apollonio lowered the chine forward of midships. 

At typical displacement cruising speeds, these new low chines are said to slide through the water instead of pushing the water away. The low chines penetrate the waves, reduce slamming and a prevent a harsh ride in rough water, Hampton says.

A well-appreciated by-product of this feature is that chine slap at anchor is apparently eliminated. Yet at higher planning speeds, the chines are said to perform the same lifting function as most boats and, thus, there is no disadvantage of the so-called split-chine.

Seasoned boaters notice the difference when running this advanced hull, Hampton says, and the running surface for its pilothouse yachts enjoy enhanced ride qualities anywhere from the common 12-20 knots cruising speeds.

Australian and New Zealand dealer Leigh-Smith Yachts says the Hampton split-chine hulls and pilothouse designs are ideally suited to long-range cruising of the Australian coastline. More at www.lsyachts.com.au.

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