What distinguishes a planing hull from a displacement hull?

A planing hull is specifically designed to rise above the water's surface at higher speeds, which allows it to glide efficiently when sufficient power is applied. This characteristic enables planing hulls to achieve greater speeds compared to displacement hulls, which move through the water by pushing aside the water rather than riding on top of it.

In contrast, displacement hulls are typically built to travel at lower speeds and maintain stability by displacing water with their hull design. They are efficient for cruising and are often used in larger vessels that prioritize a smooth ride over speed.

The design of the hull also plays a crucial role; planing hulls are generally flatter on the bottom to facilitate this gliding motion, while displacement hulls may have rounder bottoms to create buoyancy and stability at slower speeds. Thus, the ability of a planing hull to rise above the surface while powered distinguishes it from its displacement counterpart.