50-Man Rowing Crew Speed & Capacity: A 12th Century Ship Analysis

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the speed and endurance of a 50-man rowing crew on a 12th-century ship, emphasizing the importance of muscle bulk and lung capacity. The analysis aims to reverse-engineer the ship's design based on the crew's rowing capabilities. Additionally, the conversation explores the feasibility of accommodating 20 to 300 passengers, highlighting the challenges of such a design. The need for specific metrics related to rowing performance and ship specifications is underscored.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of historical ship design principles
  • Knowledge of human physiology, specifically muscle and lung capacity
  • Familiarity with rowing techniques and performance metrics
  • Basic concepts of weight distribution and buoyancy in naval architecture
NEXT STEPS
  • Research historical ship designs from the 12th century
  • Study the biomechanics of rowing and its impact on speed
  • Investigate the principles of naval architecture related to passenger capacity
  • Explore modern rowing performance metrics for comparative analysis
USEFUL FOR

Historians, naval architects, rowing coaches, and anyone interested in the engineering and performance aspects of historical maritime vessels.

wolram
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I have tried to work out how fast and how long a 50 man rowing crew could go, i think it not only depends on muscle bulk but also lung capacity, this is in relation to a 12 century ship, i have little idea of the ship design but i thought if i knew the rowing capabilities of the said crew i could work backwards and guess at the ship design.
Added, the boat must be able to carry 20 passengers.
 
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The other question is the same but with 300 passengers, i know it is a tall order , but i would be greatful if some one could help out on this problem :smile:
 

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