What hull type is designed for smooth movement through water by moving water aside?

A displacement hull is specifically designed to move smoothly through water by displacing a volume of water equal to its weight. This design allows the hull to efficiently cut through the water, enabling the vessel to maintain stability and comfort while cruising. Displacement hulls typically operate at lower speeds and are ideal for larger vessels, providing a stable platform as they move with the water rather than trying to skim across it.

In contrast, other hull types serve different purposes. Keel refers to a structural component of a boat that provides stability, rather than a type of hull. Flat bottom hulls are designed to provide excellent stability on calm waters but are less efficient in displacement travel, often resulting in a rougher ride in choppy conditions. Round bottom hulls are more streamlined and suited for faster speeds, as they can achieve planing, but they are less stable at low speeds compared to displacement hulls. Thus, the unique characteristics of displacement hulls make them the ideal choice for smooth movement through the water.