Stability (STIX) Rating

Stability is the resistance of the boat to forces that tend to induce heeling.

Issues that impact stability are the center of gravity, the center of buoyancy, overall displacement and the moment of inertia.

If we know what the issues are we can determine the relative stability of one vessel vs. another.

Although we do not have an established rating system in North America, the Europeans use a comprehensive system known as STIX.

To be offered for sale in the European Common Market, new boats are required to publish their STIX ratings.

Island Packet Yachts are actively sold in Europe. The company’s tag line is “America’s Cruising Yacht Leader.”

Island Packet STIX ratings bear that out. For example, the STIX rating on a 50 ft. sailboat from the world’s largest manufacturer of coastal cruisers is 41.The Stix rating on an Island Packet 485 is 66!

In every case, the comparably size Island Packet yacht enjoys a far higher STIX rating than its competition.

Racing around the beer cans calls for long waterlines and light displacement. The race is fast but managing the boat can be very tiring. Beer can races only last a few hours so crew fatigue is not a major issue.

Cruisers, on the other hand, are on the water for extended periods of time. Fatigue is to be avoided.

At sea, displacement is your friend. A high STIX rating means that the boat will be able to look after itself through a wider range of wind and sea conditions. Her crew will not feel the need to jump up and grab the wheel to correct for the effects of a gust of wind or a large wave.

Island Packets have travelled the world. They are recognized by cruisers everywhere who see them as seaworthy, seakindly and cruiser friendly.