I know what you mean about the beam on this thing! I could dock mine between the tubes and still have room to spare!
think the tubes only come into play when manouvering"violently" or to cushion the hull in rough water. Otherwise as you say,wil never touch the water in normal use.
Docked this in the "posh Marina" In San Diego bay,by the Yacht club;so you know has a few dollars to his name.
Wonder if he wants "to play" and go jump some waves
cheers Dal