How do planing hulls differ from displacement hulls?

Planing hulls are designed to skim across the water's surface at higher speeds, which allows them to lift out of the water and reduce drag as they accelerate. This characteristic makes them ideal for activities that require speed, such as water skiing or fast-moving recreational boating. The ability to achieve and maintain speed by rising above the water is a defining feature of planing hulls.

In contrast, displacement hulls travel through the water by pushing it aside, which means they operate more efficiently at lower speeds. This type of hull is typically found on vessels designed for cruising and long-distance travel, where stability and cargo capacity at lower speeds are more important than speed itself.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for boaters, as it influences the type of activities they can pursue and the design of the vessel they choose.