Understanding Hull Performance – What Makes a Good Plate Boat Hull
Deadrise
The angle of the V usually measured at the transom. A flatter transom deadrise promotes stability, planing, and fuel efficiency. A deep deadrise at the bow promotes a comfortable ride. But, a deep deadrise at the transom can result in less stability, higher fuel consumption, and more power required to get on the plane. We use a proprietary deadrise distribution to balance soft ride and stability at rest. Shallow deadrise is efficient but slams; steep deadrise rides soft but needs more power. Our hull geometry strikes the right balance.
Reverse Chines
Reverse chines affect spray behaviour, lift distribution, and how loads are transmitted into the hull. Aggressive angles and excessive widths increase wetted area, raising fuel consumption, reducing efficiency at speed, and producing a harsher ride as conditions deteriorate. They can also make a hull feel overly stiff.
Just as importantly, chines must remain properly engaged with the water. When they’re too high, they run dry, which can lead to chine walking or unsettled behaviour at speed.
We size and angle our chines to achieve clean water release and controlled lift, prioritising comfort, efficiency, and consistent handling across real operating conditions.
We size and angle our chines to achieve clean water release and controlled lift, prioritising comfort, efficiency, and consistent handling across real operating conditions.
Shoulder Shape
The shoulder is one of the most important, and most overlooked part of the hull. It's the area just back from the bow where the chines start to come in to the centre. If the shoulder is too full, the dynamics of the water flowing over it can cause a low pressure region behind it which can cause the boat to lean to one side, cause harsh slamming and a wet ride. We've all seen it, a boat leaning over when there isn't any wind.
The chine distribution directly affects the shoulder fullness. It's easy t0 spot because it just doesn't look right. If the chines are running flat and then abruptly rise to the bow, there is a good chance that the shoulder is too full. Correct chine rise distribution is critical on recreational plate boats which is why our chine distribution is a closely guarded trade secret.
Planing Dynamics & Porpoising
Porpoising is when the bow bounces while underway, even when there is no chop. It is caused by lift force fluctuation at the transom, which is caused by poor weight distribution or excessive rocker. We see lots of examples these days particularly in tiller steer designs where the engine and skipper weight are concentrated at the transom. We minimise porpoising with tuned hull lines and careful weight distribution.
Chine Walking
Chine engagement also plays a key role in directional stability at speed. When chines are carried too wide or too high in combination with steep deadrise, they can lift clear of the water as the boat gets up on the plane. This reduces consistent lateral support and allows the hull to alternately load and unload from side to side — a behaviour commonly referred to as chine walking.
In practical terms, this can show up as unsettled handling, particularly when running fast in short, angled chop, where small disturbances can cause abrupt changes in balance or steering input.
For this reason, every hull we design is tuned to its specific layout, weight distribution, and operating envelope, ensuring the chines remain effectively engaged and the boat remains predictable and composed at speed.
In practical terms, this can show up as unsettled handling, particularly when running fast in short, angled chop, where small disturbances can cause abrupt changes in balance or steering input.
For this reason, every hull we design is tuned to its specific layout, weight distribution, and operating envelope, ensuring the chines remain effectively engaged and the boat remains predictable and composed at speed.
styling that works in aluminum design
It’s not just about performance. At Wavemaster, we believe that your boat should look as sharp as it performs — without compromising ease of construction.Our styling choices are shaped by over 15 years of hands on experience in commercial shipyards and many years working in the super yacht sector. We understand how alloy behaves, how it bends, how it welds, and how to design shapes that not only look great but assemble cleanly and efficiently.From window rake and chine lines to topside curvature and hardtop geometry, every detail is developed with:Builder friendly fabrication in mind.Visual balance and proportion that enhances the overall look.Manufacturing efficiency for both DIY and professional builders.A boat that’s easy to build is more likely to be built well, and a well-built boat should turn heads at the ramp and ride smooth on the water.
Ergonomics - Comfort meets safety
There is a science to helm ergonomics, and we take it seriously.
In many countries, guidelines exist that specify how helm stations should be laid out to ensure forward visibility, comfort, and safety. Unfortunately, many DIY-style designs overlook this, resulting in awkward steering positions and even unsafe operation.At Wavemaster, we reference published ergonomic data and design guidelines to ensure our helm positions are properly laid out. We consider:Steering wheel angle and height.Seated and standing posture.Forward visibility over the dash and bow.Clearance around throttle and switches.The result? A helm that feels right — and performs safely — whether you're navigating tight waterways or running wide open in a following sea.