Hydrodynamics of Boats

Welcome to Hydrodynamics of Boats, a course designed to deepen your understanding of how water interacts with hulls and appendages, and how these interactions influence performance, stability, and efficiency on the water.

We begin with the fundamentals of hydrostatics—the science of how boats float, balance, and maintain stability at rest. From there, we progress into the dynamic world of hydrodynamics, where water is in motion. You’ll explore key concepts such as resistance, lift, drag, and wave-making, and discover how naval architects and sailors apply these principles to optimize speed, handling, comfort, and safety.

Whether you are a sailor, a powerboater, or simply passionate about the physics of the sea, this course provides a solid foundation for understanding the forces at work below the surface. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to see boats not just as vessels, but as finely tuned systems shaped by the laws of fluid dynamics.

Join us as we uncover the hidden rules of the water—rules that every boat must obey.