foiling catamaran

Support our hydrofoil educational content for free when you purchase through links on our site. Learn more

[2023] Hydrofoil Catamaran: The Ultimate Guide to Foiling on Water

• November 1, 2023
• Hydrofoil Basics

Experience the thrill of flying above the water with a hydrofoil catamaran!

Are you ready to take your hydrofoil boarding to the next level? Look no further than the hydrofoil catamaran. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of hydrofoil catamarans, exploring their history, how they work, their benefits and drawbacks, and everything else you need to know to make an informed decision. So, buckle up and get ready to soar above the waves!

Table of Contents

Quick answer, quick tips and facts, how does a hydrofoil catamaran work, benefits of hydrofoil catamarans, drawbacks of hydrofoil catamarans, choosing the right hydrofoil catamaran, maintenance and care, recommended links, reference links.

A hydrofoil catamaran is a type of watercraft that combines the stability of a catamaran with the lift and speed of hydrofoils. It uses specially designed foils to lift the hulls out of the water, reducing drag and allowing for faster and smoother sailing. Hydrofoil catamarans are popular among sailors and water sports enthusiasts for their incredible speed, maneuverability, and thrilling foiling experience.

Shopping Links: Hydrofoil Catamarans on Amazon | Hydrofoil Catamarans on Walmart | Hydrofoil Catamarans on Etsy

• Hydrofoil catamarans can reach speeds of up to 40 knots (46 mph) or more, depending on the design and conditions.
• The foils on a hydrofoil catamaran can lift the hulls out of the water, reducing drag and allowing for a smoother and faster ride.
• Hydrofoil catamarans are used for various purposes, including racing, recreational sailing, and even transportation.
• Foiling on a hydrofoil catamaran requires some skill and practice, but it’s an exhilarating experience once you get the hang of it.
• Hydrofoil catamarans come in different sizes and designs, catering to different skill levels and preferences.

Hydrofoil catamarans have a fascinating history that dates back to the early 20th century. The concept of using hydrofoils to lift boats out of the water and reduce drag was first explored by Italian engineer Enrico Forlanini in the late 1800s. However, it wasn’t until the 1950s that hydrofoil technology started to gain traction in the boating world.

The first hydrofoil catamaran, known as the “Aquavion,” was developed by the French engineer René Guilbaud in the 1950s. This innovative design combined the stability of a catamaran with the lift of hydrofoils, revolutionizing the world of sailing. Since then, hydrofoil catamarans have evolved and become more advanced, offering incredible speed, maneuverability, and stability on the water.

A hydrofoil catamaran works by utilizing hydrofoils, which are wing-like structures mounted underneath the hulls of the boat. These foils generate lift as the boat gains speed, lifting the hulls out of the water and reducing drag. This lift allows the hydrofoil catamaran to achieve higher speeds and a smoother ride compared to traditional boats.

The hydrofoils on a catamaran are typically designed with a curved shape, similar to an airplane wing. This shape creates a pressure difference between the upper and lower surfaces of the foil, generating lift. The foils are usually adjustable, allowing the sailor to fine-tune the performance of the catamaran based on the sailing conditions.

To control the hydrofoil catamaran, sailors use a combination of steering and sail trim. By adjusting the angle of the foils and the sails, they can optimize the lift and balance of the boat, ensuring a stable and efficient ride. It takes some practice to master the art of foiling on a hydrofoil catamaran, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

Hydrofoil catamarans offer a range of benefits that make them a popular choice among sailors and water sports enthusiasts. Here are some of the key advantages of hydrofoil catamarans:

Speed : Hydrofoil catamarans are known for their incredible speed. By lifting the hulls out of the water, hydrofoils reduce drag and allow the boat to glide smoothly above the waves. This enables hydrofoil catamarans to reach impressive speeds, making them a thrilling choice for racing and high-performance sailing.

Maneuverability : The lift generated by hydrofoils enhances the maneuverability of catamarans. With reduced drag, hydrofoil catamarans can make sharp turns and quick maneuvers with ease. This agility is particularly useful in racing scenarios, where every second counts.

Stability : The dual-hull design of catamarans provides inherent stability, even at high speeds. When combined with hydrofoils, the stability of hydrofoil catamarans is further enhanced. This stability makes them suitable for sailors of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced professionals.

Efficiency : Hydrofoil catamarans are more efficient than traditional boats. By reducing drag, hydrofoils allow the boat to sail faster while using less power. This increased efficiency translates to longer sailing distances and reduced fuel consumption, making hydrofoil catamarans an environmentally friendly choice.

Versatility : Hydrofoil catamarans are versatile watercraft that can be used for various purposes. Whether you’re looking for a high-performance racing catamaran or a recreational sailboat for family outings, there’s a hydrofoil catamaran to suit your needs. Some models even offer the option to switch between foiling and non-foiling modes, providing flexibility on the water.

While hydrofoil catamarans offer numerous benefits, it’s important to consider their drawbacks as well. Here are a few potential downsides to keep in mind:

Cost : Hydrofoil catamarans tend to be more expensive than traditional boats. The advanced technology and materials used in their construction contribute to the higher price tag. Additionally, maintenance and repairs can also be costly, especially if specialized parts or services are required.

Learning Curve : Foiling on a hydrofoil catamaran requires some skill and practice. It can take time to learn how to control the boat effectively and maintain stability while flying above the water. Beginners may find the learning curve steep, but with dedication and proper instruction, anyone can master the art of hydrofoil catamaran sailing.

Weather Conditions : Hydrofoil catamarans are sensitive to weather conditions. While they excel in flat water and moderate winds, rough seas and strong gusts can pose challenges. It’s important to be aware of the weather forecast and choose suitable sailing conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Transportation and Storage : Hydrofoil catamarans can be larger and bulkier than traditional boats, making transportation and storage more challenging. Specialized trailers or racks may be required to transport the catamaran, and adequate storage space is needed to protect it when not in use.

Despite these drawbacks, the thrill and excitement of foiling on a hydrofoil catamaran outweigh the challenges for many sailing enthusiasts.

When it comes to choosing the right hydrofoil catamaran, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Skill Level : Consider your skill level and experience as a sailor. Some hydrofoil catamarans are designed for advanced sailors, while others are more beginner-friendly. Choose a catamaran that matches your skill level to ensure a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.

Intended Use : Determine how you plan to use the hydrofoil catamaran. Are you looking for a racing catamaran, a recreational sailboat, or something in between? Different models offer varying features and performance characteristics, so it’s essential to choose a catamaran that aligns with your intended use.

Budget : Set a budget for your hydrofoil catamaran purchase. Prices can vary significantly depending on the brand, model, and features. Consider both the upfront cost and the long-term maintenance expenses when determining your budget.

Brand and Reputation : Research different brands and their reputation in the hydrofoil catamaran industry. Look for brands with a track record of producing high-quality, reliable catamarans. Reading customer reviews and seeking recommendations from experienced sailors can also provide valuable insights.

Demo and Test Sails : Whenever possible, try out different hydrofoil catamarans before making a final decision. Many manufacturers and dealers offer demo and test sails, allowing you to experience the performance and handling of the catamaran firsthand. This hands-on experience can help you make an informed choice.

Remember, choosing the right hydrofoil catamaran is a personal decision that depends on your individual preferences and needs. Take your time, do your research, and consult with experts to find the perfect catamaran for your hydrofoil adventures.

Proper maintenance and care are essential to keep your hydrofoil catamaran in top shape and ensure its longevity. Here are some maintenance tips to help you keep your catamaran performing at its best:

Rinse with Fresh Water : After each sailing session, rinse your hydrofoil catamaran with fresh water to remove salt and debris. Pay special attention to the foils, as saltwater can cause corrosion over time.

Inspect for Damage : Regularly inspect your catamaran for any signs of damage or wear. Check the foils, hulls, rigging, and sails for any cracks, dents, or loose fittings. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

Store Properly : When not in use, store your hydrofoil catamaran in a dry and secure location. If possible, keep it covered to protect it from the elements. Consider using a boat cover or storing it in a boat shed or garage.

Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines : Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and care. Each catamaran may have specific recommendations for cleaning, lubrication, and other maintenance tasks. Adhering to these guidelines will help prolong the life of your catamaran.

Seek Professional Assistance : If you’re unsure about any maintenance tasks or need assistance, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Local boatyards, sailing clubs, or authorized dealers can provide expert advice and services to keep your catamaran in optimal condition.

By following these maintenance tips and caring for your hydrofoil catamaran, you can enjoy many years of thrilling foiling adventures on the water.

How fast is the hydrofoil catamaran?

Hydrofoil catamarans can reach impressive speeds, depending on various factors such as the design, wind conditions, and skill of the sailor. Some high-performance hydrofoil catamarans can exceed 40 knots (46 mph) or more. However, the exact speed will vary based on these factors.

How does a foil catamaran work?

A foil catamaran, also known as a hydrofoil catamaran, works by utilizing hydrofoils to lift the hulls out of the water. These foils generate lift as the boat gains speed, reducing drag and allowing for faster and smoother sailing. The lift created by the foils enables the catamaran to “fly” above the water, resulting in increased speed and improved performance.

What happened to hydrofoils?

Hydrofoils have a rich history and have been used in various applications, including passenger ferries, military vessels, and recreational boats. While hydrofoils experienced a surge in popularity in the mid-20th century, their use declined in some sectors due to factors such as high costs, maintenance challenges, and the development of alternative technologies. However, hydrofoils continue to be used in niche markets, including high-performance sailing and racing.

Read more about “… What is the World’s Largest Hydrofoil Boat?”

Are hydrofoil boats more efficient?

Yes, hydrofoil boats are generally more efficient than traditional boats. By lifting the hulls out of the water, hydrofoils reduce drag and allow the boat to sail faster while using less power. This increased efficiency translates to longer sailing distances and reduced fuel consumption. However, it’s important to note that the efficiency gains may vary depending on factors such as the design, sailing conditions, and skill of the sailor.

Hydrofoil catamarans offer an exhilarating and thrilling experience on the water. With their incredible speed, maneuverability, and stability, they have become a favorite among sailors and water sports enthusiasts. While they may come with a higher price tag and require some skill to master, the rewards of foiling on a hydrofoil catamaran are well worth it.

When choosing a hydrofoil catamaran, consider factors such as your skill level, intended use, budget, and the reputation of the brand. Take the time to research and test different models to find the perfect catamaran for your needs.

So, are you ready to take flight on a hydrofoil catamaran? Embrace the thrill, experience the freedom, and enjoy the incredible sensation of soaring above the water. Happy foiling!

• Hydrofoil History
• Advanced Hydrofoiling Techniques
• Hydrofoil Equipment Reviews
• Why do boats not use hydrofoils?
• iFLY15 – iFLY Razzor Pro – Foiling Catamaran
• Hydrofoil Catamarans on Amazon
• Hydrofoil Catamarans on Walmart
• Hydrofoil Catamarans on Etsy

Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

Related Posts

What Propels a Hydrofoil Boat? Unveiling 12 Secrets to Soaring Above Water in 2024 🚤

• July 29, 2024

Discover the Thrill of Large Hydrofoil Boats: 10 Must-Know Facts for 2024! 🚤

• July 27, 2024

Hydrofoiling 101: How Hard Is It to Learn? [2024] 🌊

• July 13, 2024

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

Trending now

672 Wine Club

• Motorcycles
• Car of the Month
• Destinations
• Men’s Fashion
• Watch Collector
• Art & Collectibles
• Vacation Homes
• Celebrity Homes
• New Construction
• Home Design
• Electronics
• Fine Dining
• Benchmark Wines
• Brian Fox Art
• Chase United
• Disneyland Resort
• Gateway Bronco
• Royal Salute
• Sports & Leisure
• Health & Wellness
• Best of the Best
• The Ultimate Gift Guide

This New 94-Foot Foiling Catamaran Can Fly Across the Seas at Over 50 Knots

Voodoo's new xf95 also has a range of 3,500 nautical miles., rachel cormack.

Digital Editor

Rachel Cormack's Most Recent Stories

• Chanel Now Owns a 25% Stake in Swiss Watchmaker MB&F

This Revamped 161-Foot Trinity Superyacht Could Be Yours for $16 Million

• This Blinged-Out Patek Philippe Nautilus Was Seized by U.K. Police. Now It’s up for Auction.
• Share This Article

Voodoo Yachts has conjured up some more marine magic.

Related Stories

• Acura Is Working on an All-Electric Sports Car to Replace the NSX
• BMW Just Sold More EVs In Europe Than Tesla for the First Time
• ‘They Should Feel Like They’ve Risked Death’: The Hypercar Startup That Wants to Deliver Old-School Fear on the Road

The newcomer takes design cues from fellow Xpedition Foilers, which have been “tested and battle-hardened in the South Pacific,” according to the yard. As with previous models, the XF95 is fitted with integrated hydrofoils amidship that lift the hulls out of the water to increase efficiency, stability, speed, and range. “Flying” over the waves results in less drag, meaning the multihull uses less fuel than a traditional yacht.

The XF95 can be equipped with two engines rated at either 2,000 or 2,600 hp. The latter option enables a cruising speed of 37 knots and a top speed of 45 knots. Voodoo says there is also another, more powerful setup that results in a top speed of more than 50 knots. In terms of range, the vessel can cruise for 1,200 nautical miles at 30 knots or cover 3,500 nautical miles at eight knots. Owners can add a larger tank to increase the range or install a large solar array to generate clean, green power at sea.

With a beam of 31 feet and an interior volume of 245 GT, the XF95 offers nearly 5,400 square feet of space on board. The yard says the spacious living quarters are on par with yachts spanning 118 to 125 feet. The model is highly customizable, too: Owners can opt for an enclosed or open bridge and choose between several different layouts.

Amenities also abound outdoors. The main deck is home to a dip pool, a lounge, and a swim platform, while the upper deck sports an alfresco dining area and the foredeck showcases another large lounge.

Marine magic, indeed.

Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the…

Read More On:

More marine.

Rescuers Find Remaining Missing Aboard the Sunken ‘Bayesian’ Superyacht 

Tech Mogul Mike Lynch and 5 Others Are Missing After a Yacht Sinks in Italy

A Fleet of Candela’s Electric Foiling Yachts Is Rolling Out to the Red Sea in 2025

Meet the Wine Club That Thinks Differently.

Receive editor-curated reds from boutique California producers four times a year.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Marine

‘La Dea II’ Superyacht in Photos

12 Must-See Yacht Debuts at This Year’s Cannes Fest

More from our brands, betty halbreich, bergdorf’s legendary personal shopper, dies at 96, most valuable nfl teams 2024: cowboys first to top $10 billion, ‘ripley,’ ‘fallout,’ ‘fargo’ and ‘oppenheimer’ take top honors at location managers guild awards, christie’s first sale at new asia headquarters led by $35 m. monet, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors.

• FlySafe ® Foil Control
• iFLY Reviews
• Our Partners
• Distributors

Class Association

Enter your keyword.

Just enjoy high speed - foiling

” iFLY – Born to FLY “

Just enjoy foiling, ” high performance sailing “, ” we love speed “, ” join the adventure “.

iFLY15 – Technical SPECS

Length 4.63 m, 15 ft..

A Foiling Catamaran for 1-2 person(s) does not need to be any longer than this. The ancient rule that says you need length to achieve speed does not apply, as hulls do not touch the water at most times.

Width 2.50 m.

This width provides plenty of righting moment, still being road legal ato be transported in horizontal position without disassembly.

7.5 m mast / 11.2 sqm mainsail

7.5 m mast with 11.2 sqm deck-sweeper mainsail. – 8.5 m mast on iFLY RAZZOR Pro with bigger rig

Draft: 95 cm

Weight: 90 kg.

90 kg ready to sail. A very light boat, providing nonetheless excellent stability for everyday suitability.

Crew 1-2 - max.180kg

Flysafe® foil control.

T-Foils Main Foils and Rudders FlySafe automatic dynamic foil control Additional Option: Main Foil Differential >>>

Know More >>>

Different - Rig Options

LATEST DEVELOPMENT OF “DECK SWEEPING” MAINSAIL THE ROLLABLE HERU WING RIG LIGHT WIND FORESAIL «CodeF»

Full Carbon Hulls

Looking for the perfect setup for your foiling sailboat.

We can recommend the best iFLY setup and accessories for your boat. Get in touch for the ultimate sailing experience!

Performance

A great number of innovations all over the catamaran and the perfect match of all components allow controlled high-speed foiling experience. iFLY15 is full of innovations, e.g. in hull design, hydrofoils, rudders, automatic flight control system, two-layer wing trampoline, high performance rig…

HULL Design

full carbon – lightweight – performance design: Born to foil

High Performance Rig Options

LATEST DEVELOPMENT OF “DECK SWEEPING” MAINSAIL WORLD PREMIERE: THE ROLLABLE HERU WING RIG : WORLD PREMIERE: LIGHT WIND FORESAIL «CodeF». ALLOWS UPWIND FOILING (as well as other courses/points) ALREADY IN EXTREMELY LIGHT BREEZE. Know More >>>

Two Layer Trampoline

AERODYNAMIC INNOVATIVE WING TRAMPOLINE CREATING LIFT.

Full Carbon T-Foils 

SCIENTIFICALLY DEVELOPED high-end foils for early take off, high speed and maximum stability.

flySafe® dynamic foil control system

The foils are controlled independently, dynamically and precisely on both sides by the flySafe® foil control system . This enables high performance sailing through stable flight. The unique foil control system of IFLY15 is a 7 years proven system developed by CEC Catamarans.        Know More >>>

IFLY MAIN FOIL DIFFERENTIAL TECHNOLOGY

MDT FOIL CONTROL – iFLY rake control The sophisticated main foil differential is an active flight assistance – The Rake is adjustable while sailing. Advanced Rake Control is for the experienced, performance-oriented Catamaran sailors / pro sailors and is a feature on the iFLY RAZZOR Pro.      Know More >>>

Innovations and more   >>>

In the hand of the experienced sailor, iFLY15 is a high-performance racing machine. STABILITY IS NOT CONTRADICTORY TO HIGH PERFORMANCE OR SPORTINESS , on the contrary, it is a prerequisite for safe reaching and maintaining constant high speeds. Stable flight allows the sailor to concentrate on the course, on the wind, as well as on opponents and strategy – rather than permanently getting distracted by working on the foiling balance.

EARLY TAKE OFF IN WINDS AS LOW AS 2Bft. / 6 KNOTS , by combining the innovative “KickOff” foil control with a trampoline that provides boost and with the latest generation of rig and foils.

BOAT SPEEDS FAR BEYOND DOUBLE WIND SPEED CAN BE ACHIEVED . Enjoy high speed foiling with top speeds far beyond 25 knots – in ideal conditions up to 30 knots.

CONTROLLED FOILING EVEN IN THE UPPER WIND RANGE BEYOND 22KNOTS OF WIND SPEED – supported by the new FlySafe® Automatic Foil System.

FOILING PLEASURE AND PERFORMANCE ALSO IN CHOPPY WATERS

FREEDOM ! FLYING SOLO OR OPTIONAL WITH CREW . You have the choice. No manhunt for crew. But still enjoy the opportunity of taking a friend or family to fly with you. Up to 140kg of crew weight. (To keep the boat and especially the mast light, we specified the iFLY15 components intentionally not for double trapeze.)

NO HOISTING AND LOWERING OF DAGGERBOARDS while sailing. (Only for beaching or in shallow waters.)

FREEDOM TO SWITCH BETWEEN FLYING MODE OR SAILING AS A CONVENTIONAL CATAMARAN (with at least the leeward hull touching the water). Within seconds iFLY15 can be switched to Non-Flight mode, even while sailing. In that mode, iFLY15 will not take off, but the foils will still create lift and give an extra agile sailing behavior, which is on the same time very stable as rudder Foils will avoid pitch poling. Non-Flight mode is providing additional security in extreme high wind speeds. It is also useful for less experienced sailors or in all situations, where taking off is undesirable (e.g. in the harbor or while towing…).

EASY TO LEARN FLYING BY AVERAGE SKILLED AND TRAINED SAILORS

EASY BEACHING AND SLIPPING , as simple as with any conventional beach catamaran by using a standard catamaran beach trolley. Foils remain flat under the keel, with the daggerboard lifted as on a conventional catamaran.

SIMPLE TO DISASSEMBLE PLATFORM . Width of 2.50m is also road legal in most countries for horizontal transport without disassembly.

DAGGERBOARDS CAN BE PLUGGED IN FROM ABOVE and Foils securely anchored from below with one central screw.

FAST SET-UP OF THE iFLY15 FROM ROAD TRAILER TO SAILING . Simple rigging the mast, no genacker boom, no foresail, no spi.

SILENT AND CALM PLANING ABOVE THE WAVES . Flight height of up to 90cm, avoiding even high waves below.

EASY TO FOIL THE JIBE (without landing). Stable maneuvers are made easier by the fact that the four T-Foils always remain in the water.

« INTERNATIONAL FORMULA 15 FOIL » Class Association. The new development class for FOILING, SINGLE HANDED on MULTIHULLS. Multi manufacturer class in the tradition of a Formula18, A-Class or international Moth. Enables large regatta fields and evolution of the boats, following the technical progress (which is especially essential in the case in Foiling). Strict regulations to avoid uncontrolled exaggerated development.

Contact : [email protected]

Catamaran Europe Central

The iflysail team, is looking forward to your message, more to know about ifly foiling , interesting tech, high performance rig options >>>, flysafe® dynamic foil control system >>>, ifly main foil differential technology >>>.

MDT FOIL CONTROL – iFLY rake control

News and More

Ifly foiling experience >>>, press articles >>>, events >>>.

SIT&FLY

you can  fly

THAT FLIES ALONE

Extended version on your desktop computer

A foiler designed for any sailor.

The idea was to create a SIT & FLY foiler, that is to say a boat with foils that practically flew alone, and endow it with an exceptional stability so that any sailor could fly easily, regardless of their physical or technical preparation, also allowing them to access into the competition with foils so far suitable for only a few specialists.

The mothquito foiling catamaran perfectly meets this objective. proof of this is that none of our riders had ever flown on a boat with foils before and as you will see in the videos they all fly without any difficulty. , i sincerely believe that it is the best guarantee that the mothquito is made for you., you will soon be able to try it for yourself. happy flight.

Designer and CEO:

IFS Foiling & MOTHQUITO

THE BOAT THAT FLIES ALONE

The Mothquito Foiling Catamaran is the first foiler in the world with an increased dynamic stability and performance, by the IFS system, a system that increases its dynamic length and beam to make foiling easy, safe and fun for any sailor.

Due to this system, the Mothquito surprises with its great stability, both at take-off and during flight, requiring the crew member simply the same physical effort that would be required to sail in any conventional dinghy boat without trapeze and without the need for a special technique.  

In the Mothquito you just have to sit down to sail and the boat will practically will flies alone.

For all these reasons, the Mothquito is an easy and suitable foiler for all types of sailors, a true SIT & FLY.

At the same time, it can be a fundamental tool for schools and training centers, which are increasingly in demand for easy-to-fly, stable, yet fast and fun foilers.

But make no mistake, the Mothquito is more than just a docile and stable foiler. The Mothquito is a high performance catamaran racer. With a dynamic beam in flight of 4.8 m2, this boat manages to significantly increase its righting moment, which allows it to have a sail area of ​​17.5 m2 in its basic configuration, to launch the boat at high speeds without heeling or feeling of risk.

With mothquito you don`t need:.

Previous experience.

Specific technical training.

Special physical preparation.

Navigate against heeling as in the Moth.

Hang on a trapeze compromising your safety.

Height sensors and flaps to regulate the flight height, since its V foils automatically regulate the height.

Increasing the dynamic length:

You increase longitudinal stability, improving dynamic longitudinal trim in flight and reducing the risk of nose dive and pitch poles., increasing the dynamic beam:, increased transverse stability is achieved, increasing righting moment and performance, with a significant reduction in heeling., that is why mothquito marks a before and after, a new concept in the world of foiling which is summarized in a single expression:, sit & fly.

With Mothquito you know how.

BACKGROUNDS

As foiling progresses, more and more fans and sailors want to experience the sensation of flying, even if only once.

But the reality is that many of them are in doubt as to whether they will be able to fly continuously and controlled, since flying these machines does not seem as easy as sitting down.

In many cases, it requires significant physical preparation and endurance to be able to keep the balance in flight based on counter-heeling, making counter balance and playing with the mainsail sheet hunting and molding to maintain balance and not repeatedly go overboard.

In other cases, as in the majority of catamarans, it will be necessary to hang on the trapezoid to reduce the heeling, and at high speeds the maneuvers are very fast and precise, so the risk in these circumstances does not It exactly coincides with the idea of ​​enjoy it.

In summary we can group the current foilers into 3 large groups:

They are small foilers, monohull or multihull, for a single handed and they have a central inverted T-foil and another inverted T-foil in rudder on the same line. When they are monohull, flying on these boats without falling into the water is not easy. You have to establish a continuous balance by flying against heeling and keep your balance playing with the main sheet, and your weight.

In the case of multihulls, the outer hulls act as a float to stop preventing the overturns, as the small lateral wheels do on a bicycle when the child learns. but this solution does not eliminate the difficulty of the flight and slows down the speed of the boat every time the float enters into the water. they also use flaps with mechanical height sensors to control the flight height, and therefore require care and maintenance., they are dinghy catamarans for single or double handed and have four inverted t-foils., with a dynamic beam of around 2.5 m, which usually coincides with their hull beam, these foilers are much more stable than the 2t foils, but in them the use of trapezoids is usually common to compensate the heeling, which not everyone likes and less at high speeds., they also use flaps with mechanical height sensors to control the flight height, and therefore require care and maintenance., 2j + 2t foils, they are high-performance catamarans, of greater length and for more than two or three crew. it is common to see them compete on international circuits. their main foils are in j, which is the same as an underwater v when the boat heels, so they regulate the flight height without the need for flaps. they are very technical boats that require a lot of training and good physical shape. in addition they are not affordable since their price is usually not within the reach of every pockets..

If you are a training center or sailing school...

We are developing a strategic plan for the commercialization and international expansion of the Mothquito that may interest you.

• Nacra 17 Olympic

Flying an Olympic Powerhouse

The Olympic standard in multihull sailing worldwide. Now upgraded to fully foiling beast. The first leisure catamaran built to Olympic standards.

The revolutionary Nacra 17 Olympic is the ultimate multihull for athletes. Now with full foiling capabilities, the 17 is faster than ever. Since the 2016 Rio Olympics, sailors keep pushing boundaries and setting records. With continuous innovation, performance keeps getting better. A true powerhouse. 

The Nacra 17 is the Olympic standard in catamarans. It is the world wide bench mark in profesional sailing. The Nacra 17 exhumes quality, speed and durability. Its curved foiling daggerboards give the cat space craft like features. The thrill to sail the Nacra 17 will stay with sailors capable enough the drive this high powered machine.

Usage Olympic racing Competitive racing Foiling

Crew 2  Mixed sailors

FLYING ON THE HIGHEST STAGE IN SPORTS

The original Nacra 17 was initially designed to follow World Sailing´s strict requirements for the Olympic multihull. It was fitted with curved daggerboards at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, to provide extra buoyancy and boost its efficiency both downwind and upwind. In response to recent developments and requirements, the next generation Nacra 17 Olympic has now been upgraded into

a fully foiling race machine. The  Nacra 17 Olympic  is designed in collaboration with Morrelli & Melvin, a world-famous design office known for many other successful multihull projects. The Nacra 17 Olympic ‘s base obviously lies in the performance of the America’s Cup boats, also involving Morelli & Melvin. Once you start flying a Nacra 17 Olympic , you’ll realize its tremendous power on the water. 

UPGRADED FOILING Challenging, exciting and dynamic – the next gen  Nacra 17 Olympic is taking catamaran sailing to the next level. The quality standards for rigging, hull contruction and sail plan are unprecedented. The full carbon set-up engineered by a team of dedicated professionals has shown not only full foiling speed records but surprising durability at the same time. The Nacra 17  Olympic  comes standard in the full Olympic configuration, with curved and Z-foil daggerboards. Sailing the next gen Nacra 17 Olympic takes guts, physical strength, tactical ability and focus – a true Olympian’s craft.

NEW SAIL PLAN Being the only multihull sailmaker in the world granted the right to make official Olympic sails by World Sailing, Performance Sails delivers high quality hand made sails. Their 30+ year expertise in the catamaran racing world makes sure your sails can handle anything. The Pentex™ mainsail and jib are strong and durable, as is the polyester spinnaker. Since 2016 Performance Sails offers fully printed spinnakers with your country’s flag or sponsors, with a negligible weight increase of only ~0.2g/m 2 .

• Nacra Users & Owners Manual
• Nacra Assembly Manual Nacra 15 / F16 / 17 / F18 / F20
• Nacra Assembly Manual Nacra 17 Olympic V2
• Nacra 17 Front Crossbar
• Nacra 17 Rear Crossbar
• Nacra 17 Spinnaker Pole
• Nacra 17 Spinnaker Pole (Sloop)
• Nacra 17 Tillerbar
• Nacra 17 Olympic Rudder Template
• Nacra 17 Olympic Rudder Manual (2018)
• Nacra 17 Olympic Differential Rudder Rake Manual (2022)
• Nacra 17 Olympic Front Crossbar
• Nacra 17 Olympic Footstraps
• Nacra 17 Olympic DB Trimwheel Line System
• Nacra 17 Olympic Continuous Line System
• Nacra 17 Olympic Daggerboard Case Line System

Specifications

Ready to start flying?

ON SELECTED MODELS

All models outfitted with an Foiling Package ( FCS or   Flight Control System for short ) are ready for full foiling – during your sail, specialized hydrodynamic daggerboards combined with upwards pressure make you get a controlled ‘flight’, meaning your whole boat will be above the water, rather than in it. Make alterations on the water during your flight to find the groove you are looking for and fly over water to leave others behind.

These so-called  Foil sets are designed to fly in a wide range of weather conditions, to make competitive catamaran sailing accessible to even more sailors, and are built to meet the highest safety standards. A real treat for the more, or a little less, experienced sailors.

Using the best possible manufacturing techniques available, we’ve obtained maximum strength with minimum weight using autoclave technology, curing the pre-impregnated carbon/epoxy at 120 degrees Celsius at an atmospheric pressure of 6 bar. It will put you miles ahead of any fleet in terms of performance and joy.

Nacra 17 Class

The Nacra 17 class organization is involved in every step the Olympic boat takes. After the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, the class and Nacra Sailing agreed to evolve the boat to become a full foiling catamaran. The Nacra 17 class is open to any sailor with Olympic ambition.

Nacra 17 Class website

See all Nacra models

Shop all your spare parts and accessories directly from our online store.

Shopping for your business?

Do you order for a sailing school or club, a resort, or do you want to become a Nacra Certified Dealer? Contact Nacra Sailing to apply.

© Nacra Sailing INT. 2024

NORTH AMERICA'S LARGEST AND MOST ADVANCED DINGHY FACTORY

Country/region

• Australia AUD $
• Austria EUR €
• Belgium EUR €
• Canada CAD $
• Czechia CZK Kč
• Denmark DKK kr.
• Finland EUR €
• France EUR €
• Germany EUR €
• Hong Kong SAR HKD $
• Ireland EUR €
• Israel ILS ₪
• Italy EUR €
• Japan JPY ¥
• Malaysia MYR RM
• Netherlands EUR €
• New Zealand NZD $
• Norway USD $
• Poland PLN zł
• Portugal EUR €
• Singapore SGD $
• South Korea KRW ₩
• Spain EUR €
• Sweden SEK kr
• Switzerland CHF CHF
• United Arab Emirates AED د.إ
• United Kingdom GBP £
• United States USD $

Item added to your cart

fulcrumspeedworks

*NOTE: Sales team will contact you with shipping rates.

Couldn't load pickup availability

For lead time and shipping rates, email: [email protected]

The Foiling Sailboat For Everybody

$2,000 build deposit .

Slots in the continuous build queue are reserved upon receipt of $2,000 USD. Deposits are refundable until the materials go into the mold for your specific boat. 

Delivering credible performance at all points of sail in a broad wind range. Dimensions of less than 12' long and 6' wide and weighing less than 50kg, 110 lbs. Able to be rigged, launched, retrieved upright, and sailed in shallow water. Forgiving - not dependent on advanced sailing skills. Inexpensive and durable enough for a wide variety of users. Easy to store and transport.

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Opens in a new window.

Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Foiling and Hydrofoiling: Everything you need to know

A foiling International Moth dinghy. Photo: Christopher Ison / Alamy

What is foiling?

Although foiling or hydrofoiling feels like a recent revolution to take the world of watersports by storm, it is actually much older than many appreciate.

In terms of motorised waterborne craft, the first foiler was a motorboat designed and built by Italian inventor Enrico Forlanini in 1906.

It did, however, take quite a bit of time before foiling boats with sails took to the water, but even then many people might be surprised to learn that even in the 1970’s the foiling trimaran, Williwaw, covered over 20,000 sea miles in and around the South Pacific all on its foils.

It turns out the history of hyrofoiling goes back further than many think.

It was not until the early-2000s that foiling really started to take hold, with a  development dinghy class, the International Moth, leading the way.

Foiling boats

With huge amounts of interest in the 11ft Moth dinghy, foiling began to spread throughout the sport of sailing. And it was not long until hydrofoiling boats of all different shapes and sizes were taking the water.

Over time, some traditional classes converted to foiling – the A-Class and C-Class catamarans being examples. But more new boats were also designed specifically with hydrofoiling in mind.

In 2013 Emirates Team New Zealand built their 72ft America’s Cup catamaran to be a foiler, forcing their competition for the Cup, Oracle Team USA to convert their AC72 into a foiler to stay competitive – ultimately Oracle Team USA won the Cup in one of the biggest sporting comebacks of all time .

To date the America’s Cup has not looked back with the competition taking place in smaller hydrofoiling AC50 catamarans in 2017 and the newly conceived monohull foilers, the AC75 s, in 2021.

In 2021 the Olympics Games introduced the first ever foiling catamaran in the Nacra 17.

Foiling yachts

Offhsore, 90ft Ultime multihulls on their foils are competing to be the fastest to race around the globe and design houses across the globe are racing to create foiling yachts for the masses which could dramatically reduce cruising times from one destination to the other.

There are also many classes of yacht that are taking some of the lessons from fully foiling craft and putting them to use in a semi-foiling manner.

Here the biggest technical innovation is in the IMOCA60 class, which is famously used for the single handed non-stop round the world race, the Vendée Globe .

The latest couple of generations of IMOCA 60s have been build with huge, technologically complex foils to generate lift. These are powerful enough to lif the boats fully out of the water, but as yet the class rules do not allow for rudder foils which would stabilise flight and allow for full foiling.

Where sailing boats and yachts have, arguably led the way in the history of foiling over the past decade or so this has filtered down into a plethora of other watersports craft.

Although in the early days foiling was typically the preserve of elite sailors and watersports professionals, increasingly we have seen boats and boards designed to foil in the hands of the average sailor, surfer or windsurfer.

This race to bring the fun of foiling to beginners is continuing apace with beginner foiling boats, windsurfers, surfers etc. coming to the market every year.

How to watch today’s America’s Cup today’s Preliminary Regatta live streams from anywhere

• August 23, 2024

The America’s Cup Louis Vuitton Preliminary Regatta will start on Thursday 22 August 2024 and will run through until Sunday 25 August 2024 and will see all all six teams…

The 10 best foiling dinghies: fun ways to get flying for all abilities

• July 16, 2024

Foiling used to be the preserve of a select few elite-level athletes, but a couple of decades of work by enthusiasts determined to broaden participation has resulted in a slew…

12 dream sailing experiences – from dreamy adventures to high-octane thrills

• May 15, 2024

We’re all seeking experiences. Whether that’s taking on a sporting challenge, going on above-averagely-adventurous holidays, or learning a new hobby or skill, we live in an era where ‘doing’ is…

Ainslie’s team reveals Britain’s new America’s Cup boat

• April 20, 2024

The British America’s Cup team has become the fourth challengers to unveil their new AC75. INEOS Britannia revealed their AC75 in the early hours of morning, as the foiling monohull…

World’s coolest yachts: Monitor – the 1955 foiling boat

• February 29, 2024

“It has to be Monitor, of course! The father of all flying rockets!” says Desjoyeaux. One of the world’s first sailing hydrofoils, Monitor was created in 1955 by Gordon Baker,…

North Atlantic in six days solo: Arkea Ultim Challenge leaders cross the Equator  

• January 13, 2024

Less than a week after setting out from the start in Brest, the leading Ultim trimarans in the Arkea Ultim Challenge have crossed the Equator. First to enter the Southern…

Six solo skippers ready to race 100ft foiling multihulls around the world

• January 4, 2024

There are very few ‘firsts’ left in the world of sailing, but one such remaining barrier could be smashed when the Arkea Ultim Challenge Brest sets off from north-west France…

How to turbo-charge a round the world racer

• November 28, 2023

Ahead of me, the bow of Medallia is pointing at the sky. This is not poetic license; I am actually looking upwards at my bowsprit as it rises up, 50ft…

Slingsby and Neuschäfer crowned Sailors of the Year 2023

• November 15, 2023

The 2023 Rolex World Sailor of the Year awards were presented to Tom Slingsby and Kirsten Neuschäfer last night at a ceremony by World Sailing in Málaga, Spain. The popular…

Le Cléac’h and Josse win the 2023 Transat Jacques Vabre

• November 13, 2023

French duo Armel Le Cléac’h and Sébastien Josse sailing Maxi Banque Populaire XI have won the Transat Jacques Vabre 2023, crossing the finish line at 18:19hrs local time (22:19hrs UTC)…

We’re astounded by this new foiling superyacht: Baltic 111 Raven

• October 19, 2023

Wow…! This foil-assisted, ultra-lightweight superyacht breaks new ground in many respects and Baltic says it is “one of the most extreme yachts” the yard has built in its 50-year history.…

5 reasons to follow the 30th anniversary Transat Jacques Vabre

• October 12, 2023

The Transat Jacques Vabre is one of the ultimate tests of short-handed racing, a double-handed dash from France that sees many of the world’s top racing machines take on the…

World’s fastest monohull: Malizia-Seaexplorer IMOCA 60

• August 17, 2023

Followers of the IMOCA 60 fleet will know that two names have dominated the class over the past two generations when it comes to design: VPLP and Verdier. So, it’s no…

IMOCAs win race to Cherbourg with Macif first monohull in Rolex Fastnet Race

• July 24, 2023

In the battle of the big boats it was the brand new IMOCA Macif, skippered by Charlie Dalin with Pascal Bidégorry which was first monohull home to take line honours in…

Rolex Fastnet Race 2023 stacked IMOCA fleet set to entertain

• July 20, 2023

The famous Rolex Fastnet Race always provides an intriguing line up of amateur and professional teams all looking for race glory as they battle the 629nm course from Cowes, round…

Two giant foiling trimarans set for a Fastnet Race battle

• July 18, 2023

As with most big races around the world, bragging rights in the Rolex Fastnet Race race are split into two broad camps, the line honours winners (the first boat to…

First look: Persico 72ft 40-knot foiling cruising cat

• July 7, 2023

The new foiling catamaran design is the result of Persico’s strategy to translate knowledge the yard gains from its work in aerospace, IMOCA 60 and America’s Cup spheres into very…

11th Hour Racing declared winners of The Ocean Race after redress

• June 29, 2023

Charlie Enright’s 11th Hour Racing Team has won The Ocean Race after a jury awarded them redress of 4 points in the final leg of the round the world race,…

World’s coolest: IKA Kitefoil

• June 5, 2023

“Watching the gracefulness of kitefoil racing had me mesmerised the first time I saw it,” explains Will Harris. “It is an example of pure efficiency and use of all and…

F1 star Sebastian Vettel backs new German SailGP team

• May 31, 2023

Four-time F1 World Champion Sebastian Vettel and double Olympic sailing bronze medallist Erik Heil have joined forces, alongside team owner Thomas Riedel, to announce a brand new German SailGP Team.…

How SailGP’s foiling F50 catamarans sail so much faster than the wind

Arguably the most technologically advanced sailboats on the planet right now, the one-design SailGP F50 foiling catamarans are capable of breathtaking speeds – at times, reaching four times the velocity of the wind that drives them. But how do they do it?

Beating the balloon

Bending the laws of physics

Faster and faster

Beneath The Surface

Watch on youtube.

Access All Areas

Want to learn more about SailGP?

Meet the denmark sailgp team, find all the latest news, go beneath the surface of sailgp, sailing terms, go beneath the surface.

How the world’s fastest sail racing boats fly above the water

Tune in to SailGP’s landmark Season 2 opener in Bermuda at the end of the month, and you’d be forgiven for thinking that your eyes are deceiving you.

The Beneath The Surface show

We go Beneath The Surface of SailGP's iconic host cities, set a spotlight on great projects and curious mind and catch all the lastest with the Denmark SailGP Team. Join us as we travel the world and explore how innovation and science is helping solve the world's biggest challenges!

This is how SailGP's NASA-inspired wings make the F50 boats fly

Some may say the foils, which help the boats to fly above the water. Others may claim it’s the platform – that’s the two, catamaran hulls and the trampoline that connects them.

ROCKWOOL Denmark SailGP Team

The official home of the ROCKWOOL Denmark SailGP Team. Meet the team, read all the latest stories and explore a world of exciting content.

ROCKWOOL Group

• DREDGE/CIVILS
• AUSMARINE (OCEANIA)
• MIDDLE EAST/NORTH AFRICA
• LATIN AMERICA

FEATURE | Fifty years of foiling

The following is the keynote address delivered by Baird Maritime co-founder Dr Neil Baird at the fiftieth anniversary virtual symposium of the International Hydrofoil Society – of which he is a member – held last October 2020.

In 1963, when I was 16, my father and I built a six-metre by three-metre Attunga class plywood sailing catamaran. It was a beautiful boat and, for its time, very fast. Designed by Peter Hooks, an eccentric World War II fighter pilot who became a noted building architect, it incorporated several aero- and hydro-dynamic features inspired by Peter's wartime Spitfire and Mustang adventures.

Peter was something of a kindred spirit and mentor who inspired me at that young age to follow the Amateur Yacht Research Society. I devoured its publications, always looking for ways to make my boat go faster. While hydrofoil craft had been around, at least since Alexander Graham Bell's amazing contraption of the early 1900s, they were only starting to become commercialised and weaponised in the mid- to late fifties in Switzerland, Italy, Russia, the USA, and Canada.

Reading about hydrofoil boats in AYRS journals and Popular Mechanics and the like, I became intrigued by the small but fast Swiss Supramar ferries, designed by Baron Hanns von Schertel, one of the founders of the International Hydrofoil Society (IHS). I felt that if I got the foil shapes and structures right, I would be able, in a good breeze and flat water, be able to make my Attunga catamaran fly.

Well, after numerous sheer snapped centreboards and rudders, we started to make them strong enough and it did. We began to be able to see daylight under the leeward hull while flying the windward one. While we only flew for a few hundred metres at a time and couldn't change direction significantly, at least we were up there. How I wish we'd had access to modern FRP materials like carbon fibre then.

I sailed that boat with my brother in Melbourne, Hobart, and Sydney for several years, having a lot of fun and winning numerous races and regattas and often setting long-standing records. Once, coming in through Sydney Heads, the boat literally flew from one wave to another.

We then "grew up" and went ocean racing as crew for other, older, richer people in big yachts. Great fun and a great learning experience but not usually as exciting as faster, smaller sailing boats.

Meanwhile, I was, like many members of the IHS, no doubt, becoming interested, most particularly, in ferries, patrol and assault craft and yachts. I was especially interested in going faster at less cost, in greater comfort, with less wash and with much greater safety. All these factors pointed directly towards hydrofoils. I became fascinated with and an advocate for fast ferries. I was fortunate to be able to indulge my passion and experience almost all the commercial hydrofoils.

The "foiling ferries" to Manly

Having moved to Sydney in 1969, though, I began to experience and study the technical and other attributes of hydrofoil ferries. On prior visits, I had ridden on several including the original little Supramar-designed, Hitachi-built 19-metre, 75-seat Manly III in 1967. The fact that, with operating speeds of 34 knots, they halved the voyage times of the traditional Manly ferries was exciting.

I was then hooked on fast ferries and wanted to learn how they worked. I frequently rode on and became even more interested in the bigger Rodriquez PT 50, 140-seater boats that were introduced in 1966.

It was disappointing, even though I could understand why, that the hydrofoils began to be withdrawn from service from 1988. Unaffordable fuel costs were blamed. I was no longer living in Sydney then but visited frequently and maintained my interest in the hydrofoil ferries.

It was interesting to investigate why they were withdrawn and, mostly, scrapped after only just over 20 years. It seemed sad for aluminium craft to be so readily discarded. Fuel costs were a problem as were their berthing peculiarities and the vulnerability of their foils. I suspect, too, that their steel foils connected to riveted aluminium hulls may have suffered from corrosion problems. And, as so often happens around the Australian waterfront, there were union difficulties.

The Rodriquez boats were good to travel on. I experienced several of them in Sydney, the Solent and Italy. Smooth, fast enough for short distances and with comparatively low wash but noisy and smoky.

The slow death of the Rodriquez boats coinciding with the rise of the Boeing/Kawasaki Jetfoils

Rather putting the lie to the fuel cost excuse, it was interesting to see the almost simultaneous rise of the gas turbine-powered Jetfoil compared with the decline of the diesel Rodriquez boats. They overlapped from the mid-70s to the late 90s.

Few Rodriquez boats remain in service. However, they were out competed more by fast catamarans than by Jetfoils. The cats are easier to own. The Jetfoils, though, offered and still offer, a premium, "Concorde-like," service. They are fast, smooth and expensive. They are fast and smooth, of course, unless they happen to hit a whale, wreck or container at speed. That has happened with fatal consequences.

I have travelled on numerous Jetfoils in the North Sea, Korea, Indonesia and, mostly, the Pearl River Delta in China. I have experienced some very rough conditions and incredible congestion, both of which were handled with aplomb. Needless to say, I always wore my seatbelt.

If you can afford them, Jetfoils are great to travel on.

The Jetfoils arose from the development of the US Navy's Pegasus-class, a 48-knot foiling missile boat of which six were built. Interestingly and importantly, the Pegasus-class was pushed and strongly promoted by my illustrious predecessor in the role of Keynote Speaker to the 25th Anniversary IHS Conference, the remarkably forward thinking Admiral Elmo Zumwalt USN.

However, like most navies, the US Navy has never been keen on small vessels so the 41-metre Pegasus-class was quickly doomed despite Admiral Zumwalt's status as Chief of Naval Operations. A pity that naval prejudice prevailed as they were very promising boats. Indeed, the fast missile boat concept has been picked up and developed by China's PLA Navy with their, ironically, as things have turned out, Australian-designed Houbei catamaran FAC.

Boeing, however, spread its significant development costs over the civilian version, the 43-knot Jetfoil, of which they built 28. Fifteen were subsequently built under licence by Kawasaki in Japan and two built in China but styled slightly differently. Interestingly, after a hiatus of 25 years, Kawasaki launched another example earlier this year.

Meanwhile, Rodriquez, after building some 250 plus mostly commercial hydrofoils, experimented with some large, steel-hulled Ro-Pax vessels that were unsuccessful. That adventure seems to have destroyed the company, which is now a division of the yacht building group Intermarine. Anyway, Rodriquez faded from the scene after 1999 as the catamarans were faster, cheaper to build, buy and run and, importantly, safer.

In the late nineties I had a delightful dinner in London with three of the Rodriquez family. I was most impressed with their concepts and philosophies but felt they were struggling somewhat with the rapid advance of catamarans. As they were the real pioneers of commercial hydrofoils, indeed of fast ferries, I felt rather sorry for them. I liked their boats.

The Russians were coming

Simultaneously with the Rodriquez and Boeing developments, the Soviets, naturally, had to enter the market. As always, their vessels commenced as military craft. Designed and built by several design "bureaux" and naval shipyards, hundreds of their Raketa, Meteora and Kometa hydrofoil ferries were built. Many were exported. They commenced delivering 33-knot commercial ferries in 1957 and Kometas are still being built today. Not a bad production run.

They were generally sold at uneconomic prices, That is, "dumped". The Soviets did not have a commercial clue. The boats were also heavy fuel consumers and maintenance was very expensive due to poor quality Soviet engines and largely riveted construction from often dodgy materials.

I have ridden on many Meteoras and Kometas in Russia, Greece, China and Vietnam. Except for those in Greece, most of these craft were roughly finished, poorly maintained, smoky "tail draggers". One in particular, on the Mekong River in Vietnam, was disintegrating with the aluminium structure, believe it or not, reinforced with galvanized steel!

My most recent trip on a Kometa was almost exactly a year ago, from Thassos to the mainland in Greece. The boat was in better condition than its Vietnamese cousin but it still poured out massive amounts of exhaust smoke, was very noisy, and barely got up on its foils. It travelled at about 20 knots, leaving a substantial wave wake.

Soon after Glasnost, in the early nineties, I managed to be taken on an illegal tour of the Almaz Shipyard on the Neva River in St Petersburg. It was then still very much a Soviet-style defence shipbuilder but, in addition to the huge military hovercraft being constructed there, they were still turning out Kometas and other commercial and military hydrofoils – very inefficiently, I should add.

The wider market

Other hydrofoils, I know, came and went but mostly "went" without a trace. The Russians tried numerous naval versions but they seemed to come to nothing – they probably spent too much on WIG craft! Another way of flying over the water.

So, my commercial interest remained mostly focused on the Rodriquez, Boeing/Kawasaki and Russian boats. They were the only ones I rode on personally. However, I did read about examples such as the Fijian-built Drodrolagi, launched in 1995 and capable of carrying 60 passengers at 37 knots. I've not heard of it since.

The latter was more of a "foil assisted" boat, like the excellent HYSUCATs from South Africa's renowned Professor Karl-Gunter Hoppe and the Monostab ferries that Rodriquez unsuccessfully experimented with twenty or so years ago. New Zealand naval architecture firm Teknicraft Design has made a specialty of the HYSUCAT concept with, effectively, a hydrofoil "wing" connecting the keels of the two hulls of a catamaran. Numerous patrol, yacht, passenger and research vessels have been built incorporating that hydrofoil concept. They are highly regarded but I have never experienced one. They do much of what I hoped hydrofoils would do when I first thought about them.

Australia's One2Three Naval Architects designed an interesting and successful trimaran motor yacht utilising the system in 2009. I understand the concept has been taken still further using the trimaran configuration of Frank Kowalski's magnificent Thunder Child II built by his Safehaven Marine.

In the mid-nineties we published two editions of The World Fast Ferry Market , a survey that turned out to be amazingly prescient. It is now really even more interesting to read than when it was first published in 1997. We were twenty years ahead of our time and I suspect that is a trait we share with many hydrofoil developers.

Even then, though, among the 44 fast ferry types currently in production, there were only Rodriquez, Kawasaki and Kometas listed as building hydrofoils. Importantly, though, we highlighted the growing desire for ferries having lower resistance, wash, emissions and fuel costs combined with greater safety, comfort and speed. The catamaran ferries were achieving most of those objectives then but the addition of hydrofoil technology has "supercharged" them.

Foiling leisure boats

While foiling commercial and naval vessels have developed slowly, except, perhaps for the Teknicraft boats, in the 25 years since Admiral Zumwalt stood here before you, leisure applications of hydrofoils have exploded. Hopefully, some of that explosive force will be directed towards commercial and naval activities. There is no doubt that many of the leisure developments have great potential in those other, more real, worlds.

As an avid reader of Yachting World and a constant observer of the sailing activity on Pittwater, outside my window, I have, frankly, been amazed and delighted by the advances I have seen over the past twenty years or so. From the first flimsy foiling Moths to the America's Cup catamarans and, now, large foiling monohulls, the change has been phenomenal.

Hydrofoils have more than super-charged sailing boats. The speed increases achieved have broken the sailing "sound barrier." In twenty years, speeds of sailing craft have more than doubled.

Of course, these developments apply almost solely to racing boats but, as with Formula One racing cars, plenty of them eventually transfer to normal road cars. I suspect this will happen, also, with boats. Indeed, I expect that ultimately much of what is happening in top level yacht racing will eventually trickle through to engine-powered commercial and military vessels.

These hydrofoil sailing boats are doing everything we want in ferries, patrol and other commercial and military vessels. Strong, lightweight, low-resistance boats require less power and less fuel while giving a smoother ride and making less wash. Jetfoils, for example, offer a wonderful ride and high speed but wouldn't it be great if you could achieve that with significantly less power? I'm sure it will happen before long.

How long before this electric hydrofoil technology will be transferred to the commercial world?

Apart from the very highly developed foil shapes, it is obvious, even to a non-naval architect, that much of the advance is due to the use of modern FRP-based materials. Basically, they are incredibly light and strong and, so, encourage hydrofoil development. How I wish I had them back in the mid sixties!

I confidently expect such a transfer of hydrofoil technology from the leisure to the commercial and military sectors. There will, I am sure, be many more foiling ferries, water taxis, patrol, assault, pilot and other craft over the next few years. They will undoubtedly incorporate those light strong foils. I expect to see and experience many of them and look forward to that. However, the keynote address at your 75th IHS Symposium will be really fascinating. I'm sorry I'm unlikely to be here long enough to participate.

Meanwhile, I wish the IHS well with this, its fiftieth anniversary symposium. I look forward to following your deliberations and learning of many further advances in foiling.

More great content as part of this month's Hydrofoil Week right here.

Related Stories

Design from the past: G4 Foiling Catamaran

Ultra-modern, lighter = better, craftsmanship, design from the past: g4 foiling catamaran.

The G4 foiling catamaran will no longer be manufactured by us, but we like to tell you about the design philosophy and the beautiful sailing characteristics of this special foiling multihull.

Every G4 foiling catamaran was handmade in our own factory in Lelystad, the Netherlands. A passionate team of craftsmen made the boats according to the individual wishes and requirements of the customer. With its extraordinary lines and performance, the G4 sailed its own course. It did not compete with other yachts suitable for coastal sailing. Light as a feather and very powerful, the G4 delivers the ultimate sailing performance with a touch of adrenaline.

Design philosophy

The G4 is now part of DNA’s family history. It was built and delivered with an extensive package of hydrofoils. The pre-preg structure was state-of-the-art and there was a sea of space for six passengers with lots of comfort. The G4 foiling catamaran was designed as a junior racer with high cruiser content – not the other way around. The G4 was the more luxurious, practical, comfortable and sophisticated view of every high performance catamaran that existed until then.

The interior of the G4 foiling catamaran offered space and comfort according to the ‘less is more’ philosophy. The extremely spacious cockpit could be used for the preparation and consumption of meals or even a party with 15 people. The cabin even gave full standing heigth at the entrance. The interior was completed with two queen sized beds and a spacious sofa for 6 to 8 people. Thanks to the great panoramic views, this is a great place to eat, read or navigate. The comfort on board made the G4 suitable for long weekends, where you can travel distances of 300 nautical miles.

The design is derived from the foiling DNA A-cat catamaran: the same hull shape in a more spacious jacket. The DNA design team for the G4 foiling catamaran included the well-known Dutch industrial design engineer Rudo Enserink .

Performance with hydrofoils

The core of the performance of the G4 foiling catamaran was the package of hydrofoils. This consists of long L-daggerboard foil and T-rudders. The rake of all foils can be moved forwards or backwards, for more or less lift. Not in the mood for a foiling day? Simply rake the foils forward and sail like any other catamaran.

No matter how good the foils are, it’s the low weight of the ship that makes it possible to lift the complete boat. The aerodynamic design provides a low wind profile – once in the air, the G4 was able to push itself to a speed of 35 knots and more.

We build your new foiling boat!

The g4: the most personal foiling boat.

We thought that every G4 multihull should reflect both the personality and individuality of the owner. That’s why, both then and now, we encourage our customers to be involved in the construction process. Through the contact with the engineers and builders of their new boat, a lifelong bond is created. This is one of the many advantages when it comes to handmade yachts in a small volume. If buyer and builder know each other, this will result in the perfect, personalized foiling boat.

Specifications

LWL: 12.74 m LOA: 12.14 m BOA: 6.78 m Draft foils up: 0.6 m Draft foils down: 2.4 m Mast clearance: 19.36 m Displacement lightship: 2835 kg Displacement max. load: 4300 kg Salon height at entrance: 1.83 m Water capacity: 40 L Motor: 8 kw electric, retractable

Sails: North Sails 3Di Main: 73 m2 Jib: (full battens) 32 m2 FR0: (vertical battens – on furler) 39 m2 MC0: (laminated sail – on furler) 115 m2

Schrijf je in voor onze nieuwsbrief en blijf op de hoogte van de nieuwste ontwikkelingen!

Contactformulier

• Company Name
• Full name * First Last
• Emailaddress *
• Phonenumber *
• Mijn vraag betreft * My question: TF10 F1x G4 F4 Custom Parts Hydrofoils Other
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Registrieren Sie sich für unseren Newsletter

lassen Sie sich über die neuesten Entwicklungen informieren!

• E-Mail-Adresse *
• Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Schrijf je in voor onze nieuwsbrief

blijf op de hoogte van de nieuwste ontwikkelingen!

• First name *
• Last name *

Wij gebruiken cookies om u de beste online ervaring te bieden. Door akkoord te gaan, accepteert u het gebruik van cookies in overeenstemming met ons cookiebeleid.

Wanneer u een website bezoekt, kan deze informatie in uw browser opslaan of ophalen, meestal in de vorm van cookies. Beheer hier uw persoonlijke cookiediensten.

• wordpress_test_cookie
• wordpress_logged_in_
• wordpress_sec