Yacht velocity prediction using mathematical programming

A yacht velocity prediction program (VPP) is a computer model which can be used to determine the velocity of a given vessel in arbitrary sailing conditions. Such programs are becoming increasingly popular with yacht designers and those who are responsible for determining handicapping rules for yacht racing. We report here on the application of state-of-the-art mathematical programming software to a computer model of a yacht to give a velocity prediction program with which optimisation can be carried out. Such optimisation can be used to determine the best way of sailing a given design, and also to give indications of which trade-offs are important when one is designing a yacht to satisfy strict rule constraints.