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There are so many choices you face when deciding which of the many radio controlled boats is right for your needs. One of the main things to take a close look at the type of hull each boat has.

The shape of the boats hull is a huge factor in a boats speed, its stability, as well as its maneuverability.

So what are the differences? Great question, there are several. Let's take a closer look at the options you have when comparing the various styles of rc boats available.

First Option - The Monohull:

This design has a single continuous surface that is always in contact with the water. Not only that, monohull or monoplane hulls come in several styles! The most popular style is what is called a 'vee-shaped' hull.

Most sport boats have a deep-vee hull design. However, there are some racing model radio controlled boats have a shallow-vee hull design. When configured like this, there is less hull surface in contact with the water...which results in increased speed of the boat! That's great, but this comes with some sacrifice in the stability found in the deep-vee design.

Second Option - The Flat Bottom Boat:
As you might expect, the bottom of these boats are flat or at least very close to flat. These radio controlled boats basically 'float' on a cushion of air just above the surface of the water. You will find the motor on this type of boat sitting up above the body at the rear of the boat. An airplane propeller provides the thrust needed!

This flat bottom design is found in both airboats and hovercraft.


Third Option - The Hydroplane:

This unique hull design has more than one surface in contact with the water, typically two or three. The purpose of this clever hull design is to create space for trapped air underneath the boat. This helps to lift the boat up out of the water, giving it less drag (since less of the hull is touching the water). The end result of this design is boats that reach much higher speeds.

You can find this design in the 3-point hydro, the catamaran, the tunnel hull, and the outrigger. Each of these radio controlled boats is known for their high speed. The fastest of this style of boat is the outrigger... but their speed comes at a price...they are also the most difficult to handle. Given that, you will get a better balance of speed and handling control with either the catamarans or the tunnel hulls.

Think about your skill level, and the amount of risk you want to take with your radio controlled boats when you are deciding which hull type to choose.

Learn more about this author, Lynn Mcarthur.
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