R31S Max Capacity

Ken W

Active member
Joined
Jul 2, 2019
Messages
35
Fluid Motion Model
C-302 C
Hull Identification Number
FMLT3123D717
Vessel Name
Tough Guy
Is there a maximum “persons on board/weight” rating for the R31S? I’ve seen placards on other boats but not Tough Guy.
 
Capacity plates are required by law on boats under 20 feet, and manufacturers are required to rate them. They are not required on larger boats.

There are "formulas" for capacity for larger boats; they are of dubious utility...
 
The "official" forumula is: multiply the length of your boat by the width of your boat and divide it by 15 to get the number of people your boat can safely hold. You don't want 20 passengers on your boat. (31X10/15) I've done weight and balance testing on commercial boats during Coast Guard testing to get the passenger certificate... picture 20 people on your boat all going to one side to see a whale. :shock:
 
My captain during orientation said he once saw 15 people on a R31CB and the stern was sitting VERY low - swim deck was partially submerged!
 
I believe the formula is figuring a passenger at 150 lbs. I had a small boat that listed the capacity as 8/1200. So, using the the 20 it would be 20 passengers or 3000 lbs.

On my boat says 12 passengers, but using the weight calculation I remove 2 for the added weight of what I have on the boat (tools, safety gear, etc.) and come up with a maximum of 10. Also, I know my passengers aren't all under 150 lbs, so if it's parents and kids it might be 10, but all adults and 8 would be my max.
 
The U.S. Coast Guard capacity ratings have the concept of boat 'classes':

Boats are divided into four length classes:

Class A Vessels: These classes of vessels have less than 16 feet in length.
Class I Vessels: These classes of vessels range from 16 feet to no more than 26 feet in length.
Class II Vessels: These classes of vessels range from 26 feet to no more than 40 feet in length.
Class III Vessels: These classes of vessels range from 40 feet to no more than 65 feet in length.


Class I and Class A boats have the max capacity plates. Class II and above do not, you are supposed to rely on the formulas. As noted the formulas are of questionable value. My C-28 has a a capacity of 15 when using the formaula. I would never do that, I think its ridiculous and unsafe to have that many people.
 
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