Getting the boats in your fleet rated for EZ

EZ is a great rating system for handicap fleets, especially those with a mix of boats with different performance characteristics. Because the EZ ratings are based on a VPP (Velocity Prediction Program) that takes into account the specific characteristics of each boat, it can provide a more accurate and fair rating for boats in a mixed fleet. The VPP operates with an offset file that describes the boat's hull shape and appendages. ORA already has a large database of boats with their corresponding offset files, but if your boat is a little older or more unique, an offset file will need to be created for it.

For boats with an existing offset file, the cost of a new certificate is $100. For boats that require a new offset file, the cost is $150 (as of 2026).

To get started with applying for a certificate, please visit https://regattaman.com/certificate_page.php where you can add in your boat details as well as view the current list and manage the application process.

Measuring sails

When applying for a certificate, you will need to provide measurements of your sails. You will notice that the sail measurements are more detailed than what you might be used to with PHRF rating systems. This is an important step in the process, as the VPP uses these measurements to calculate your boat's performance and determine your rating. This process only needs to be done once unless you change your sails, in which case you will need to update your certificate with the new measurements. Previous years' measurements will carry over when renewing a certificate.

You do not need a sail maker to measure your sails and it's completely possible to do it yourself with a tape measure and a helper. The mailsail can be measured on the boat by partially raising the sail to each of the measurement points, pulling it taut and then measuring the distance perpendicular from the luff to the leach.

The jib/genoa/spinnaker are more easily measured on the ground. You can lay the sail out flat and measure the distance from the luff to the leach at the specified points on the headsail. For the spinnaker, the measurements will be different based on if the sail is symmetric or asymmetric.

Measurement points on the sails

Review the illustration below and you can see the measurement points for the mailsail and headsail by looking at the dotted lines on each. Each measurement required is listed on the EZ application and if you click on the 3-letter designation, you will see a pop-up with a description of how to take that measurement. For example, the MTW measurement is the Main Three-quarter Width taken 3/4 of the way up the luff of the mailsail.

Other details needded for the certificate application

Some of the important details you'll want to make sure are correct on your certificate application include:

• Engine and prop type, number of blades
• Furling system for headsail
• Whether you use a whisker pole or outrigger for reaching

What if I have a one-design boat?

If you have a one-design boat, you can still apply for an EZ certificate but the process will be a little easier. EZ keeps a variety of one-design boats in "templates" that eliminate the need to enter sail measurements and other details. This means you must stay within the OD rules as far as sail measurements and equipment that would otherwise affect your rating.

These certificates are cheaper because you don't have the ability to customize the details to your specific boat and it assumes your boat matches the EZ one-design template. If you want to change details, you'll need to apply as a normal boat and pay the full fee.

Keeping your fleet current

Because the EZ VPP algorithm is updated on a yearly basis, it's important to keep your fleet's certiificates all within the same year. This ensures that all boats in your fleet are being rated with the same version of the VPP, which helps maintain fairness and consistency in your results.