This makes sense and would account for Old Slocum's
LIBERDADE being very long and narrow compared to
a typical dory.
Both Benford and Slocum use(d) Junk rigs too which might have some
reason relating to the balance problem you mention. But I just noticed
that Slocums LIBERDADE had a cross section that is not at all like the
simple working dory, it being much narrower on the bottom and more
canoe like. I think Benford's has a wider bottom panel like a true
dory. No doubt the word "dory" describes a number of hull type
variations with the Lunenburg Nova Scotia type being what I would call
the standard working type dory and the Swampscott type having a narrower
bottom and multi chined (or straked) sides.

William R. Watt wrote:
steveJ ) writes:

Yes,I always wondered about this J. Benford dory design.
It has been said that a banks type dory is not good for sailing.
I wonder if that means that it is slow or that it isn't as fast
as a catamaran or..what?


from what I've read, because there is no beam aft and there is exaggerated
curvature in the sides, when the boat heels it rounds up and develops
terrific weather helm.


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