At which point do planing boats level off the top of the bow wave?

Planing boats level off the top of the bow wave when they achieve plane. This occurs when the boat's speed increases enough that it begins to rise out of the water rather than pushing through it. At this point, the boat's hull becomes less immersed, and the bow wave, which is created as the boat moves forward, becomes less pronounced.

When a boat is on plane, it is in a state of dynamic lift where its hull glides over the water surface, minimizing drag and maximizing speed. This transition is crucial for effective operation, as it optimizes fuel efficiency and responsiveness.

While other stages, such as reaching maximum hull speed or transitioning from semi-displacement, involve different phases of boat operation, they do not accurately describe the specific moment when the boat is fully on plane and the bow wave is leveled off. Therefore, achieving plane is the definitive point when this leveling occurs.