LOA, LWL, beam and draught
Four different measurements explain a sailboat’s size.
In plain language
LOA is overall length under the source’s definition. LWL is waterline length. Beam is maximum width. Draught is the depth of the submerged boat; a movable keel normally has separate raised and lowered values.
How to interpret it
More LOA can mean higher costs and berthing requirements. LWL appears in design calculations. Beam and draught affect use but do not independently describe interior space or behaviour.
Why it matters
Compare measurements with the same definition and check whether appendages, platforms or bowsprits are included.
Limitations
Loading changes the waterline. A difference between sources may reflect a measurement method rather than an error.
In practice
Hypothetical example: two boats with 10 m LOA can have quite different waterline lengths and interiors.
Sources & reading
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