How does the Raptor compare in performance, price, and features to a Windsurfer™?
The Raptor will outperform a windsurfer in light air (less than eight to 10 knots), especially to windward, but it cannot keep up with a windsurfer in stronger winds. This is in part because the windsurfer has a higher sail area to displacement ratio (44.4 for the windsurfer and 39.6 for the Raptor) but primarily because the windsurfer sailor’s ability to cant the mast and sail generates tremendous lift, reducing wetted surface and drag. However, a windsurfer is quite difficult to learn to sail and requires considerable agility and athletic ability to sail in strong winds. It typically takes a week or more of daily sailing for a newcomer to the sport to develop sufficient skill to water start and to tack and jibe. By contrast, agility and athletic ability are not required to sail a Raptor. Anyone can learn to sail or paddle one in about 15 minutes. A windsurfer is not a particularly versatile craft. Unlike the Raptor, it is not very interesting to sail in light air or calm waters, it c
