In summary, all cruising boats use a combination of CG control, form stability, and displacement to determine static stability. This value is then used to size the sail area so that a generous amount of capsize resistance exists under full sail and moderate wind conditions. This is a delicate part of a boat design. Too much sail area will require early reefing or high heel angles, to little and the boat will be a slug in light air. Dynamic stability is also important and closely related to the moment of inertia. A high moment of inertia helps survival in heavy weather. The roll period of a boat blends elements of static and dynamic stability and can be useful when comparing potential cruising boats.

        While many other factors must go into selecting your ideal cruising boat, following the basic Stability Template is a good first step. The designs from these nine world class cruising boat designers have logged a great many sea miles. If your boat is similar, you can have confidence that it has at least some of the right stuff with regard to static and dynamic stability.