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Discover the Magic of Hydrofoil Sailboats

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 11, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

• Hydrofoil sailboats blend speed, stability, and innovation for a fun sailing experience.
• Their design lifts the hull above water, reducing drag and enabling high-speed travel.
• Advanced control mechanisms maintain stability in varying wind conditions.
• Sails and hulls are meticulously engineered for optimal aerodynamics and lift.
• Ongoing innovations in foil technology continue to propel hydrofoils to new heights.

‍ Based on their innovation and nature, the world of hydrofoil sailboats are magical, to say the least. But what exactly makes them so exceptional?

The magic of hydrofoil sailboats lies in their extraordinary speed. They can achieve remarkable speeds that were once thought impossible for sailboats. Their unrivaled stability and cutting-edge technology redefine sailing, offering a thrilling blend of innovation and performance.

Over the years, I've dedicated myself to mastering the intricacies of the yachting world, not just as an observer but as an active participant in the hydrofoil sailing community. My knowledge extends beyond the surface, encompassing the technical aspects of hydrofoil design and the thrill of high-speed sailing. As such, I’ll provide a comprehensive and engaging exploration of what sets hydrofoil sailboats apart, making them truly magical on the waters.

Table of contents

‍ Discover the Magic of Hydrofoil Sailboats

Hydrofoils saw their early development as a concept for enhancing speed and efficiency on the water. From Alexander Graham Bell's experiments to the application of foils on sailboats in the 1950s, the quest has always been for greater speed.

But it wasn't until Russell Long championed these designs with the CEC foiling catamaran and the development of the Hobie Trifoiler that hydrofoils began to carve a distinct niche in the sailing world.

This sailboat operates on a simple yet ingenious principle: as the speed increases, the foils submerged beneath the boat generate lift. This lift thrusts the boat's hull above the water, dramatically reducing drag.

It’s similar to how air flows around the wing of an airplane, only with water's denser environment offering a different dynamic. This revolutionary foiling system allows boats to glide over waves, offering an incredibly smooth ride.

The variety of hydrofoil sailboats is astounding, from the foiling catamarans that have revolutionized the America's Cup to the twin sail trimaran designs. The fastest production sailboat, the Hobie Trifoiler , showcases what hydrofoils are capable of.

Additionally, boats like the innovative Emirates Team New Zealand vessels continue to push the boundaries of technology in competitive sailing. Whether for recreational purposes or high-speed racing, the range of hydrofoil sailboats caters to different sailing experiences and preferences.

Now, let’s explore the various aspects of hydrofoil sailboats that make them truly magical.

The Thrills of Hydrofoil Sailing

When I first stepped onto a hydrofoil sailboat, I knew that sailing would never be the same for me. Harnessing the power of the wind to achieve remarkable speeds while hovering above the water was nothing short of revolutionary.

It's an adrenaline-infused blend of sailing, flying, and innovation that promises high performance and stability with a significant reduction in wetted areas.

The allure of hydrofoiling is not just about the speed; it's the sensation of flying over the waves, defying the conventions of traditional sailing. With each gust, my hydrofoil sailboat becomes a silent, swift car, slicing through the air rather than merely sailing on the water.

When sailing with hydrofoils, you get to experience the following benefits.

• High Speed: With hydrofoils, I've seen and achieved speeds I never thought possible on water.
• Less Wetted Area: As the hydrofoils lift the hull out of the water, drag is reduced, further contributing to the craft's efficiency and speed.
• Stability: Surprisingly, the flying sensation is accompanied by stability once airborne, making the ride smoother.

The America’s Cup Competitive Foiling

Over the years, I've witnessed first-hand how hydrofoil technology has radically altered the landscape of competitive sailing. The introduction of hydrofoils has not only redefined what we consider possible in the sail area but has also brought a fresh surge of excitement to the racing circuit.

The most illustrious event in sailing, the America's Cup , underwent a transformation with the embrace of hydrofoils. Emirates Team New Zealand, a frontrunner in hydrofoil innovation, redefined the America's Cup racing in 2017.

Alongside them, the US team and Luna Rossa played pivotal roles in reshaping the landscape of America's Cup racing.

With their AC50 class catamarans soaring above the waves at top speeds that defy traditional sailing limits, they clinched the title and shifted the focus of competitive racing toward technological prowess.

The spectacle of these vessels racing is not just about the crew's capabilities but equally a testament to engineering marvels.

Also, the advent of hydrofoils in racing has certainly led to a spike in performance metrics. Here's a concise table highlighting the before and after impact of hydrofoiling in competitive Sailing:

This table illustrates just how much the racing landscape has shifted; it's not only sailing anymore.

It’s similar to piloting a high-speed aircraft, with each crew member playing a crucial role in harnessing the raw power of the strong winds in harmony with state-of-the-art technology. Watch this video for a more detailed explanation of hydrofoil sailboats and their magical power.

Technical Aspects of Hydrofoil Sailboats

In diving into the technical aspects of hydrofoil sailboats, I'll give you an insight into the intricate designs that enable these marvels to glide above the water, as well as the cutting-edge foil technology propelling them.

The design of a hydrofoil sailboat revolves around its capability to elevate the hull above the water, reducing drag and enabling high wind-speed travel. Control mechanisms are central in maintaining stability, especially when the sailboat interacts with varying wind conditions or maneuvers through shallow waters.

The hull's length and overall design are calibrated for balancing aerodynamics with hydrodynamics. In designing sails and hulls for foiling, one must carefully balance the need for power with the propensity for lift.

The sails are tailored not only to harness the wind's energy effectively but also to match the unique mechanics of a vessel in flight. Meticulous engineering ensures that the sail configuration works in harmony with the foils to propel the sailboat forward swiftly.

Additionally, the foil technology, which is pivotal to modern hydrofoils, has undergone significant further development over the years . From the materials used to the manufacturing processes, every element incorporates the latest in technology to yield extreme performance.

Advancements have led to foils that can automatically adjust to sailing conditions and speed, which is instrumental for achieving and maintaining high speeds.

Currently, the future of hydrofoil technology seems bound for even further breakthroughs. Customization and refinement of foils for specific water conditions, such as the challenges posed by shallow water, are ongoing.

Each new iteration builds upon the last, consistently advancing the field and informing the next leap in hydrofoil sailing. This persistent innovation in foil and hull technology is a testament to the potential that lies ahead for hydrofoil sailboats.

Are Hydrofoil Sailboats the Right Options for You?

Hydrofoil sailboats offer a unique and thrilling sailing experience, but whether they are the right option depends on your preferences and goals. These high-performance vessels are known for their exceptional speed and stability, making them ideal for thrill-seekers and competitive sailors.

If you're passionate about cutting-edge technology and want to push the boundaries of traditional sailing, hydrofoil sailboats could be a perfect fit.

However, they may require a learning curve for beginners and are typically more expensive than traditional sailboats.

Consider your skill level, budget, and desire for speed and innovation when deciding if hydrofoil sailboats align with your sailing aspirations.

The Future of Hydrofoil Sailboats and Their Transformative Potential

Over the years, I've been captivated by the evolution of sailing and the recent advancements in hydrofoil technology, which promise a thrilling future for these marine crafts.

The technology supporting hydrofoil sailboats is rapidly advancing, bringing us closer to a world where boats gliding above the water's surface is a common sight.

These boats use 'wings' or foils submerged in water to lift the hull above the surface, reducing drag and allowing for greater speeds. This innovation is not just limited to racing but is expected to influence recreational and transport vessels in the future.

Today, we see hydrofoils in action with hydrofoil kiteboards, which have become popular among thrill-seekers. This is due to their ability to harness wind power and achieve impressive acceleration and agility on the water. This same principle is being applied to larger sailing vessels, where performance and sustainability converge.

The further development of hydrofoil technology involves intensive research into materials and design optimizations that can handle the challenges of varied sea conditions.

Electric and solar-powered hydrofoils are on the horizon, poised to significantly impact our world by offering greener alternatives to traditional boats.

Notably, the trends in hydrofoiling indicate a shift towards more sustainable sailing, utilizing advancements in electric propulsion systems to complement the inherent energy efficiency of hydrofoil designs.

The goal is a fleet of sailboats that are not just faster but more eco-friendly, promising an exciting future where the joy of sailing is in harmony with the health of our oceans.

Related Articles

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Sailing’s Hydrofoiling Revolution

• By Herb McCormick
• January 18, 2023

There’s a revolution underway in the sport of sailing, and it can be summed up in one simple word: foiling.

More specifically, we’re talking about hydrofoils , the winglike appendages mounted beneath the hull of a vessel that, at a certain speed, lift the hull clear of the water. When this happens, the foiling sailboats can reach speeds two or even three times faster than possible in “displacement” mode.

And sailboats are just one element of the foiling revolution: Surfboards, paddleboards and powerboats are also getting in on the act.

An Italian naval architect named Enrico Forlanini is credited with developing the first waterborne hydrofoils, which he affixed to a 60 hp, airscrew-driven craft that topped off at 36.9 knots back in 1906. In the century that followed, a series of would-be inventors took a swing at the concept with varying degrees of success. Foiling sailboats finally ascended into the mainstream during the 2013 America’s Cup, when Oracle Team USA beat Emirates Team New Zealand in a match between foiling 72-foot catamarans (the Cup has been contested in foiling cats ever since).

Surprisingly enough, my first foiling experience happened some three decades ago, aboard something called a Hobie TriFoiler, from the popular manufacturer of Hobie surfboards, beach cats and kayaks. The TriFoiler, basically a 22-foot trimaran with a central pod and a pair of mainsails stepped on the twin outriggers, was invented by a fanatical California engineer named Greg Ketterman. The sail controls were laid out just forward of the tiny airplane-style cockpit; you steered with foot pedals. It was so ridiculously easy that even a gremmie like me had the thing foiling within moments of getting in and reaching off.

But after the initial thrill, it was actually kind of boring. Which, I believe, is why it went out of production soon after. The TriFoiler was, unfortunately, way ahead of its time.

Such was the extent of my personal foiling experience until this past summer, when a new class of foiling monohull skiffs called Persico 69Fs rolled into my home waters for a series of races among youth squads in the class’s inaugural season. I got an invitation to take a spin.

After donning my helmet, wetsuit and life jacket, I was handed the helm with a pair of skilled young sailors on board. At 25 knots, we were towed into Narragansett Bay behind a powerful RIB, foiling all the way. It was terrifying. And a preview of coming attractions.

Once the tow dropped us, the sails went up and we bore off. I skied the tiller extension while scrambling out onto the hiking racks. Which sent us off on a screaming reach. Which flipped the 22-foot-7-inch carbon rocket ship.

Twenty seconds into foiling, and I’d capsized the bloody thing. How embarrassing.

The kids, bless them, were kind and patient. We got the whole shooting match, including ourselves, back upright and tried again. The mainsail trimmer sheeted it home, we started to accelerate, and he said: “Here we go! You’re up. You’re flying!” Indeed, we were.

Hard on the breeze in the 12-knot southwesterly, things unfolded quickly. Spray was flying, and I took more than one solid wave to the kisser. I was mostly too frightened to concentrate on anything but driving, but I did glance at the speedo once: 17.4 knots. (I felt pretty chuffed until later learning a 69F’s top speed is 34 knots. Ugh.)

However, I guess I’d proved the point: With a couple of sailors who know what they’re doing, foiling is for everyone. From now on, just call me Mr. Foiler.

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Hydrofoils for Sailboats

• By By Steven Callahan
• Updated: July 29, 2020

Hydrofoils have been providing dynamic lift since fish sprouted fins. And people have been employing foils ever since they first put paddle to water, and certainly since adding keels and rudders to boats. But the modern, flying America’s Cup boats, kiteboards, Moth dinghies, shorthanded offshore thoroughbreds—these are all ­playing in a new world in which the terms “hydrofoils” or “lifting foils” describe those oriented to raise a hull or hulls from the water. In these racing realms, if you ain’t got foils, you ain’t got nothin’.

Lifting foils that allow these boats to sometimes home in on three times the wind speed might appear to be of little interest to cruising sailors, but with such common cruising features as self-steering and autopilots, self-tailing winches, rope clutches, fin keels and faster hull shapes all having been passed down from the racing scene, one must ask, “What promise, if any, do hydrofoils hold?”

Lifted or partially lifted boat patents extend back to 1869, but workable watercraft took roots along with early flight. Italian Enrico Forlanini began experimenting with foils in 1898. In 1906, his 1-ton 60 hp foiler reached 42.5 mph. Alexander Graham Bell’s HD-4 Hydrodrome flew on Bras d’ Or Lake at 70 mph in 1919. And several sailing foiler patents began appearing in the 1950s. Notably, JG Baker’s 26-foot monohull, Monitor, flew at 30-plus mph in 1955. Baker experimented with a number of foil configurations, and at least built, if not used, the first wing mast. The first offshore foiler was likely David Keiper’s flying trimaran, Williwaw , in which he crisscrossed the Pacific in the 1960s.

By the 1980s, numerous speed-trial and foil-enhanced offshore-racing multihulls showed huge promise, and have since evolved into behemoth trimarans clocking 30 to 40 knots continuously for long periods, not to mention the monohulls in the Vendée Globe (and soon the Ocean Race) that are capable of speeds exceeding 30 knots. But as boat designer Rodger Martin once reminded me, “If you want a new idea, look in an old book.” He was right. The fully foiling monohulls that will compete in the 2021 America’s Cup will bring things back full circle to the foiling monohull Monitor .

Fluid Dynamics Primer

Any foil—a wing, sail, keel, rudder or lifting foil—redirects the flow of fluid (air included), creating high- and low-pressure areas on opposite sides of the appendage, while developing lift perpendicular to the foil’s surface.

Advancements in foiling science is due in part to the hundreds of foil shapes that were tested, with tabulated results, by the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, the forerunner of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. For the better part of a century now, aircraft and boat designers have been able to choose from a spectrum of refined foil sections that produce predictable amounts of lift and drag for known speeds of fluid and angles of attack, or the angle at which the foil passes through the fluid. Sections of efficient faster foils, as seen on jets or as we flatten our sails to go upwind or reach high speeds, have smaller nose radii and are thinner, with the thickest section of the foils farther aft, up to nearly halfway toward the trailing edge.

The most efficient foil sections at slow speeds are fatter, with the maximum thickness farther forward, and with larger nose radii, than faster foils. The angle to fluid flow or angle of attack also is greater. We see these slower foils on wings of prop planes and sails when off the wind or in light conditions.

Most sailors are familiar with traditional foils on boats, the teardrop sections of keels that produce lift to weather, reducing leeway, and of rudders, allowing them to steer. Even a flat plate can be a foil, but these tend to be inefficient. Such a shape is prone to fluid separation from the surface, meaning they stall easily, and they maintain poor lift-to-drag ratios. Even keels and rudders are somewhat lift-­compromised because they are ­symmetrical and have to work with fluid coming from either side, whereas lifting foils are more like aircraft wings or propellers, with asymmetrical sections honed for performance in a more stable, fluid flow.

The point is, any foil can be employed at various angles to the surface to prevent leeway, produce increased stability, or help lift the boat out of the water. But those not required to work with fluid flowing from opposite sides can then be honed to maximize lift and minimize drag. Asymmetrical foils were used on boats like Bruce King’s bilgeboarders, including Hawkeye , back in the 1970s. And, designers, including Olin Stephens, had previously employed trim tabs behind keels to improve keel performance.

Sails, which are heeled airfoils, not only drive the boat forward, but they also produce downforce, actually increasing the dynamic displacement of the boat. To counter this and keep the boat sailing more upright, multihull designer Dick Newick first employed slanted asymmetrical hydrofoils in the outer hulls of his small charter trimaran, Lark , in 1962. A portion of the lift developed by the hydrofoil resisted leeway, while a portion worked to actually lift the leeward hull, keeping the boat more upright and reducing dynamic displacement and drag.

Anyone who has ridden on even a foil-stabilized boat will know how riding at least lightly on the waves, and especially above them, beats smashing through them. When boats lift off, everything gets a lot smoother, drag falls away, and the boat accelerates.

Cruising on Foils

But why would a cruiser want to whip over the sea? Wouldn’t this demand an inordinate amount of attention by the crew? Would lifting foils even be applicable to a boat that must have substantial displacement to carry crew and stores? Aren’t cruising-boat hydrofoils an oxymoron?

Maybe, but I believe our boats’ hulls are likely to sprout fins much as fish have as we orient foils to more efficiently resist leeway, add stability, aid steering, reduce drag, increase comfort, allow for shallower draft, and enhance wider ­variations in hull shapes.

Boats have gotten increasingly wide through the years to advance form stability, improve performance (primarily off the wind), and boost interior volume. But the downside is that fat boats tend to slam more upwind. What if you could reduce dynamic displacement of the boat and lift that hull even partially from the water? The result would be less slamming, especially upwind.

At the same time, what about narrower boats that are known for being more seakindly, especially when closehauled, but lack form stability to carry adequate sail area for powering upwind, and tend to roll badly downwind? Or shallow-draft vessels that are lovely for cruising, but again, tend to suffer from reduced stability? Foils can give that stability back.

Looking ahead, boat ­designers might choose to reduce ballast, making up for it with a foil. In short, lifting foils can reduce boat drag and motion while increasing power and performance.

Pitching also does no favors for speed or crew comfort. Foils can come into play here as well. Foils parallel to the sea’s surface resist motion up and down, and a lifted boat skating above chop also is less prone to hobby-horsing through waves. Multihulls have always been particularly susceptible to pitching for a number of reasons, but watching videos of multihulls sailing to weather show an obvious huge advantage that foilers have compared with nonfoilers. Offshore multihulls now routinely employ T-foils on the rudders to control the fore and aft angles of the boat (attitude), a feature easily adaptable to any vessel.

OK, so what’s the cost? Obviously, the more things sticking through the hull, ­especially if they are retractable, the more it’s going to impact the interior. There would be added weight, complexity and cost. Foils also create noise, and there’s susceptibility to damage from hitting stuff. And let’s not forget compromises with shapes, purposes and things not yet imagined.

As for damage, it’s possible to fold the foils back into the hull. Think swinging center- boards or actual fish fins. Daggerboardlike foils can at least employ shock-absorbing systems similar to the daggerboard arrangements found in many multihulls. This includes weak links that are outside the hull, so if a foil is struck, it frees the foil to fold back or to come off before being destroyed or damaging the hull. Or, foils might hang from the deck rather than penetrating the hull, allowing them to kick up (and to be retrofitted to existing boats). These configurations also relieve the interior of intrusions, and keep the noise more removed from it. I have no doubt that numerous talented designers will be exploring all kinds of options and compromises in coming years, finding ways to make foils both practical and more than worth the compromises.

Sailing more upright, ­shallower draft, speed, ­comfort—what’s not to like? Just what is possible? I have a feeling the cruising community is about to find out.

Steven Callahan is a multihull aficionado, boat designer and the author of Adrift , an account of his 76 days spent in a life raft across the Atlantic.

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Hydrofoil Boats (Everything You Need to Know)

Despite the technology being around for over a hundred years, hydrofoil boats have once again become a hot topic amongst boat enthusiasts. Hydrofoil technology enhances both speed and efficiency of water vessels, and has been used by US Navy watercrafts, superyachts, racing boats, ferries, and many more.

A hydrofoil boat is supported by a winglike structure that creates lift as the boat’s speed increases. This makes the boat faster and smoother by reducing drag and keeping the boat above the waves.

With hydrofoil boats making headlines once again, it’s time to go over what they are, how they work, their advantages, disadvantages, and a serious evaluation on whether they are the future of boating or not. In this article, we’ll go over all there is to know about hydrofoils.

Table of Contents

What is a Hydrofoil Boat?

A hydrofoil boat is supported by a “hydrofoil” which is a structure composed of either a wing (V), T, or U shape. There are two types of hydrofoil boats: surface-piercing, and fully submerged. Both types of hydrofoils achieve the same purpose of lifting the boat off the surface of the water at high speeds.

When going fast enough, the lift of the foils is great enough to lift the entire hull of the boat out of the water, so that nothing but the foils themselves are touching the surface. This has some incredible benefits in terms of speed, efficiency, and experience – all of which we will soon go over.

Hydro foils help minimize drag and improve speed which is very similar to the effects achieved by aerofoils used on airplanes.

Hydrofoil boats are powered mainly in the same way other power boats are, by propellers or water jets. With that being said, they are also really popular in sailing. But the use of hydrofoils on sailboats is highly technical and primarily used by racing teams. They are most commonly used by commercial boats, and now are being introduced at the consumer level with pleasure boats.

History of the Hydrofoil Boat

The hydrofoil technology was first developed by inventors Casey Baldwin, Enrico Forlanini, and Alexander Graham Bell – yep, the same guy who invented the telephone. Forlanini had a prototype operating on Lake Maggiore in Italy by 1909. The hydrofoil boat achieved fame in WWII when it was used by both the German and US Navy to navigate waters that were heavily guarded by mines.

During the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, the hydrofoil technology was taken to water sports, where it was used in kiteboards, surfboards, and the air chair. It returned to the consumers’ attention in the 2010s, when it was used by racing teams across the world to set speed and time records in sailing championships. Most recently, watercraft companies have begun experimenting with the idea of hydrofoils on smaller scale boats outfitted with propelled and outboard engines.

How does a Hydrofoil Boat work?

So, we know that hydrofoils help boats achieve higher speeds with less drag, but how does that really work? The best way to think of it would be as “a boat with wings,” as that is essentially what they are. Just like an airplane would lift off the ground or water, as a hydrofoil boat gains speed, it lifts off the water too. While the foils themselves are submerged in the water still, much of the time there is enough lift to hold the entire hull of large ships and ferries off the surface. The sensation of being in a hydrofoil boat is much like being in an airplane that has limited flight. It’s smooth, and it’s really fast.

At the consumer level, hydrofoils require additional technology. As we’ll go over later on, this can result in some expensive price tags. As you can imagine, a boat that essentially “flies” through the air comes with some safety hazards. Hydrofoils require an automatic control system that maintains flying height, foil pitch, and smoothness of the ride. This “autopilot” system allows the foil to move in and out of the water safely, preventing the boat from slamming back into the water after it’s been lifted off the surface.

Hydrofoil Boat Advantages and Disadvantages

Their speed and unique ability to shed drag is undeniable, but are hydrofoils really all they are cracked up to be? In this regard, there are several advantages and disadvantages to consider.

Hydrofoil Advantages

• Speed: No surprise here. Most hydrofoils whether in the form of sailboat, ferry, or commercial vessel, can “fly” at speeds well over 50 knots (60 mph).
• Comfort: Because the hull of the boat is off the water, most waves and wakes hardly impact the boat, and therefore go largely unfelt by passengers. This makes for one smooth ride.
• Stabilization: For the same reason that comfort is increased, so is the boats stability (at high speeds that is). The hydrofoils cut through the water, decreasing the motion index of the watercraft.
• Efficiency: Since they aren’t impacted by smaller waves and wakes that would slow the progress of most boats, hydrofoils reach their destination in a much more efficient manner. For boats powered by traditional propeller or jet engines, this efficiency promotes a substantially better fuel economy.
• Experience: The reduced drag and impact from waves makes for a one-of-a-kind boating experience. It truly does feel like you are “flying” just above the surface of the water.

Hydrofoil Disadvantages

• Skill: Operation of a hydrofoil is a lot more technical, and requires a much more advanced skillset when compared to that of a standard runabout boat.
• Water Type: Hydrofoils are only suited for the open sea or large lakes (as of now). They are NOT fit for shallow water, as any bottom strikes while in motion could prove to be catastrophic for both the riders and the boat itself.
• Speed Range: Hydrofoils are built to “fly,” but only at certain speeds. Each boat will have a speed range where it likes to operate. Anything below that range will result in extra drag because the hull and the foils are submerged in the water. Anything above the range gets to be dangerous and uncontrollable.
• Maintenance Costs: The more complex technology comes with more complex maintenance and storage.
• Total Cost: They aren’t cheap. Some of the more popular boats at the consumer level cost upwards of $300,000.

While they may prove to be more complicated in terms of where you can drive them and their cost, there is an undeniable “coolness” factor with hydrofoil boats. As they gain popularity around the world, industry experts believe their cost and availability will become more and more accessible.

Hydrofoil Boat Costs

While you can find hydrofoils in nearly every style of boat, in this article we will cover the most common types of “personal” watercraft. You can find more information on commercial hydrofoils through this article by ScienceDirect.

• Price: $329,000
• Power Specs: 67 hp, 44 kWh battery, capable of cruising at 20-30 knots.

** One important sidenote to make about the C-8 is the incredible C-POD electric motor, which requires much less energy than a traditional internal combustion engine. The manufacturer promises 4,000 hours without any maintenance. That’s nearly 20 years of consistent use without maintenance!

• Price: $900,000 (base price)
• Power Specs: 740 hp supported by twin V8s, providing for cruise speeds upwards of 40 knots.
• Price: $240,000
• Power Specs: 40 hp, 40 kWh battery, capable of cruising at 22 knots

** For a more in-depth review, check out this Youtube video:

• Candela C-7 Review

The Future of Boating?

There are some undeniable advantages that hydrofoils have over general powerboats. The lift they get off the water not only makes for less drag and more speed, but also promotes a more comfortable and efficient ride. With that being said, their cost in manufacturing and maintenance has made them more costly than most people can afford.

It’s hard to say whether or not hydrofoils will be more commonplace at the consumer level. Right now, they are really just a fun toy for the wealthy. There are also some operational issues that manufacturers need to overcome before you’ll see them on your local waterway. Their susceptibility to damage in shallow water makes them unfit for anything but a large lake or open sea. Hydrofoils may not be as common as your run of the mill jet boat yet, but their popularity is growing at a rapid pace. If your local water happens to be a giant lake or open ocean, don’t be surprised if you start seeing more of them!

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MAIN FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT:   Lift the boat’s hull outside the water.

DESIGN PARAMETER:   Hydrofoil (It is a foil or wing under water used to lift the boat’s hull until it is totally outside the water.)

GEOMETRY/STRUCTURE:

EXPLANATION OF HOW IT WORKS/ IS USED:

1. At low speeds the hull (body of ship) sits in the water and the hydrofoils are totally submerged in the water.

2. As the boat’s speed increases, the hydrofoils create lift.

3. At a certain speed, the lift produced by the hydrofoils equals the sum of of the boat and cargo weights. Therefore the hull comes out of the water.

4. Instead of having an increase in drag with increasing speed because the hull is lifted out of the water (contrary to what happens in traditional boats due to pressure drag), the hydrofoils provide a more efficient way of cruising. Decreasing the drag contributes to the better use of the power needed for the movement of the boat.

DOMINANT PHYSICS:

How is the lift produced - Fluid Dynamics.

For the purpose of this project two explanations will be presented in a general and basic way. These theories are the application of Bernoulli’s Equation and Euler’s Equation for Streamline Curvature Effect.

Bernoulli’s Equation:  Po = P 1 + � r v 1 � + r gy 1 = P 2 + � r v 2 � + r gy 2

  This equation applies to flows along a stream line which can be modeled as : inviscid, incompressible, steady, irrotational and for which the body forces are conservative. Also the difference on the height of the foil (the distance from the bottom section to the upper one) is small enough so that the difference r gy 2 - r gy 1 is negligible compared to the difference of the rest of the terms. What is left is that the pressure plus one half the density times the velocity squared equals a constant (the stagnation pressure) . As the speed along these streamlines increases ,the pressure drops (this will become important shortly) .   The fluid that moves over the upper surface of the foil moves faster than the fluid on the bottom. This is due in part to visous effects which lead to formation of vertices at the end of the foil . In order to conserve angular momentum caused by the counter-clockwise rotation of the vortices, there has to be an equal but opposite momentum exchange to the vortex at the trailing edge of the foil. This leads to circulation of the fluid around the foil. The vector summation of the velocities results on a higher speed on the top surface and a lower speed on the bottom surface. Applying this to Bernoulli’s it is observed that, as the foil cuts through fluid, the change in velocity produces the pressure drop needed for the lift. As it is presented in the diagram, the resulting or net force (force= (pressure)(area)) is upward.

This explanation can be enriched with the Principle of Conservation of Momentum. (Momentum = (mass)(velocity)) If the velocity of a particle with an initial momentum is increased, then there is a reactant momentum equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the difference of the momentums. (See diagram). (Mi = Mf + D M) Euler’s Equation: d(p+ r gy)/dn = r v�/R

Here again, the term referring to the height is assumed negligible compared to the other terms in the equation. This equation says that as you go further from the center of the radius of curvature of a streamline, the pressure on the streamlines increases. The upper surface of the foil is closer to the center of curvature of the streamlines , therefore there will be a lower pressure than the ambient pressure above the foil. The difference between the pressure on the top surface and the ambient pressure at the bottom surface will produce a net pressure that will cause the lift.(See diagram.)

Angle of Attack:

As it has been presented, lift comes from the dynamics of the fluid in the area surrounding the foil. But the lift can be optimized by positioning the hydrofoil at an angle (relative to the incoming fluid flow) called the angle of attack (See diagram). The goal is to optimize the lift to drag ratio. This ratio depends on the shape of the foil, which in this case is considered to be a thin foil. With a small angle of attack, the lift increases rapidly while the drag increases at a small rate. After an angle of ~ 10� the lift increases slowly until ~ 15� where it reaches a maximum.  After ~15� stall can set in. When the angle of attack is 3� to 4� the ratio of lift:drag is at it’s maximum. So the foil is more efficient at those angles (3�and 4�) with lift to drag ratios of ~ 20 to 25:1

LIMITING PHYSICS:

At first, people can think that stalling is likely to be a problem in hydrofoils as it is in airfoils, but surprisingly it is not. A steep angle of attack is not needed in the design of the hydrofoil. On the contrary, small angles of attack are used on hydrofoils to optimize the lift to drag ratio as explained before.

What is a primary concern is the design of the foil, the struts/supports, and their positioning. All these features have to be taken in consideration.  So the features are designed to produce a minimum speed that will lift the boat of certain weight and keep it foilborne.

One problem that a hydrofoil craft can experience is the height of the waves being greater than the struts. Also, if the craft is traveling faster than the waves, the foils could break to the surface and outside of the water, resulting in a loss of lift and a negative angle of attack when the foil dives into the next wave, making the craft crash into the sea. Engineers have designed hydrofoils to minimize these limitations and better the ship’s performance.

PLOTS/GRAPHS/TABLES:

None Submitted

SOME HYDROFOILS AND THEIR USE:

Hydrofoils have become very popular. They are used in various kind of sea traveling, from military use to watersports. The high speed, smooth cruise and better turns delivered by hydrofoils have been used in military ships. Sailing has also adopted the hydrofoils to gain more speed. They enable new inventions that can satisfy people’s desire to challenge danger , like the sky ski. It is a water ski with a hydrofoil attached which permits people to fly above the water surface. Every day more hydrofoils are used, and in the future, they may be the dominate method of sea traveling.

REFERENCES/MORE INFORMATION:

See also on this site: Airfoil , Sailboats

Alexander, Alan, James Grogono, and Donald Nigg; Hydrofoil Sailing . Juanita Kalerghi: London, 1972.

Bertin, John and Michael Smith; Aerodynamics for Engineers, Third Ediotion . Prentice Hall: New Jersey, 1998.

Hook, Cristopher and A.C. Kermode; Hydrofoils . Pitman Paperbags: London, 1967.

The International Hydrofoil Society’s Web Page: http://www.erols.com/foiler/index.html

IMOCA 60 – The next generation of hydrofoil sailboats

Top speed: current record speed is 38.5 knots foiling: yes production cost for a new boat amounts to ~4.7 million euros interior: two bunks and space for 5 crew members.

IMOCA stands for International Monohull Open Class Association. IMOCA 60 sailing boats are an ‘open class’ which means that designers can modify the design of the boat within certain limitations. The boat can be no longer than 60 feet in length, 4.5 meters draught and a maximum mast height of 29 meters above the waterline.

IMOCA 60 Charal

Charal is the next generation foiling sailboat designed by VPLP. It has gained a lot of attention due to its innovative foil design, build from the ground up. Many other boats in this class have been retrofitted with foils since it has long been uncertain if foils are reliable for different kinds of winds, experienced in an around the world competition.

In the latest Vendée Globe competition, all top 3 boats in the race had the VPLP-Verdier fooling design, which proved that this is the future of the class.

IMOCA 60 Hugo Boss

As with the Charal, the boat uses the next generation foiling configuration and designed by VPLP in partnership with Alex Thomson. This boat is constructed entirely in carbon fiber and equipped with the latest technology. The sailing boat’s beam is reduced to a minimum and the forward section was designed to be more aero-hydrodynamic, this boat is truly built for speed. The boat holds the current speed record of 38.5 knots.

IMOCA 60 Malizia II

The boat is designed by VPLP and Guillaume Verdier and built at the Multiplast yard. This is the sailing boat that transported the climate activist Greta Thunberg across the Atlantic.  The boat is equipped with a high-volume bow which enhances the speed of the boat by making her more lightweight.

The Ocean Race

In the upcoming Ocean Race, IMOCA 60 boats have been invited to participate in the competition. Based on the success of the next generation foiling monohulled boats in the Vendée Globe competition, this will be an exciting new change in the Ocean Race vs the traditional VO65 boats used in the past edition of the Volvo Ocean Race.   

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Sail GP: how do supercharged racing yachts go so fast? An engineer explains

Head of Engineering, Warsash School of Maritime Science and Engineering, Solent University

Disclosure statement

Jonathan Ridley does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

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Sailing used to be considered as a rather sedate pastime. But in the past few years, the world of yacht racing has been revolutionised by the arrival of hydrofoil-supported catamarans, known as “foilers”. These vessels, more akin to high-performance aircraft than yachts, combine the laws of aerodynamics and hydrodynamics to create vessels capable of speeds of up to 50 knots, which is far faster than the wind propelling them.

An F50 catamaran preparing for the Sail GP series recently even broke this barrier, reaching an incredible speed of 50.22 knots (57.8mph) purely powered by the wind. This was achieved in a wind of just 19.3 knots (22.2mph). F50s are 15-metre-long, 8.8-metre-wide hydrofoil catamarans propelled by rigid sails and capable of such astounding speeds that Sail GP has been called the “ Formula One of sailing ”. How are these yachts able to go so fast? The answer lies in some simple fluid dynamics.

As a vessel’s hull moves through the water, there are two primary physical mechanisms that create drag and slow the vessel down. To build a faster boat you have to find ways to overcome the drag force.

The first mechanism is friction. As the water flows past the hull, a microscopic layer of water is effectively attached to the hull and is pulled along with the yacht. A second layer of water then attaches to the first layer, and the sliding or shearing between them creates friction.

On the outside of this is a third layer, which slides over the inner layers creating more friction, and so on. Together, these layers are known as the boundary layer – and it’s the shearing of the boundary layer’s molecules against each other that creates frictional drag.

A yacht also makes waves as it pushes the water around and under the hull from the bow (front) to the stern (back) of the boat. The waves form two distinctive patterns around the yacht (one at each end), known as Kelvin Wave patterns.

These waves, which move at the same speed as the yacht, are very energetic. This creates drag on the boat known as the wave-making drag, which is responsible for around 90% of the total drag. As the yacht accelerates to faster speeds (close to the “hull speed”, explained later), these waves get higher and longer.

These two effects combine to produce a phenomenon known as “ hull speed ”, which is the fastest the boat can travel – and in conventional single-hull yachts it is very slow. A single-hull yacht of the same size as the F50 has a hull speed of around 12 mph.

However, it’s possible to reduce both the frictional and wave-making drag and overcome this hull-speed limit by building a yacht with hydrofoils . Hydrofoils are small, underwater wings. These act in the same way as an aircraft wing, creating a lift force which acts against gravity, lifting our yacht upwards so that the hull is clear of the water.

While an aircraft’s wings are very large, the high density of water compared to air means that we only need very small hydrofoils to produce a lot of the important lift force. A hydrofoil just the size of three A3 sheets of paper, when moving at just 10 mph, can produce enough lift to pick up a large person.

This significantly reduces the surface area and the volume of the boat that is underwater, which cuts the frictional drag and the wave-making drag, respectively. The combined effect is a reduction in the overall drag to a fraction of its original amount, so that the yacht is capable of sailing much faster than it could without hydrofoils.

The other innovation that helps boost the speed of racing yachts is the use of rigid sails . The power available from traditional sails to drive the boat forward is relatively small, limited by the fact that the sail’s forces have to act in equilibrium with a range of other forces, and that fabric sails do not make an ideal shape for creating power. Rigid sails, which are very similar in design to an aircraft wing, form a much more efficient shape than traditional sails, effectively giving the yacht a larger engine and more power.

As the yacht accelerates from the driving force of these sails, it experiences what is known as “ apparent wind ”. Imagine a completely calm day, with no wind. As you walk, you experience a breeze in your face at the same speed that you are walking. If there was a wind blowing too, you would feel a mixture of the real (or “true” wind) and the breeze you have generated.

The two together form the apparent wind, which can be faster than the true wind. If there is enough true wind combined with this apparent wind, then significant force and power can be generated from the sail to propel the yacht, so it can easily sail faster than the wind speed itself.

The combined effect of reducing the drag and increasing the driving power results in a yacht that is far faster than those of even a few years ago. But all of this would not be possible without one further advance: materials. In order to be able to “fly”, the yacht must have a low mass, and the hydrofoil itself must be very strong. To achieve the required mass, strength and rigidity using traditional boat-building materials such as wood or aluminium would be very difficult.

This is where modern advanced composite materials such as carbon fibre come in. Production techniques optimising weight, rigidity and strength allow the production of structures that are strong and light enough to produce incredible yachts like the F50.

The engineers who design these high-performance boats (known as naval architects ) are always looking to use new materials and science to get an optimum design. In theory, the F50 should be able to go even faster.

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Using a Hydrofoil to Improve Efficiency

• By Alan Jones
• Updated: July 15, 2021

It’s hard to believe a piece of metal with no moving parts can be the approximate equivalent of adding 200 horsepower, 100 gallons of fuel and 100 miles of extra range. But when it’s a hydrofoil attached between the hulls of an Aquila 36 Sport power catamaran (above, far right), that’s the net effect.

While the efficacy of foiling boats is well-documented, this technology has surprisingly had little impact on the recreational powerboat market. Hydrofoils that lift a hull entirely out of the water seem to be too alien to most boaters. Plus, most foil designs require dynamic control using computers to remain aloft at a constant elevation. But they are proven to be effective. With the Aquila 36 Sport, we experienced its benefits on a recreational boat and compared it in real time to the same boat without a foil but with 200 extra ponies. Here’s what we found.

Hydro What?

Gino Morrelli and Pete Melvin, of Morrelli and Melvin Design and Engineering, applied their decades of foiling experience to design the Hydro Glide Foil System for Aquila. It consists of a main hydrofoil attached slightly aft amidships to each hull and the top of the tunnel. It lifts approximately 40 percent of the hull’s weight out of the water when at cruise speeds, for better performance and fuel economy. Farther back, twin fins act like an airplane’s horizontal stabilizers to prevent porpoising at higher speeds. What makes hydrofoils so effective is the dramatic reduction in drag. A typical planing hull has a 4-to-1 lift-to-drag ratio, while a hydrofoil can have up to a 25-to-1 lift advantage.

How does it work? The fields of aerodynamics and hydrodynamics are kissing cousins, so many of the principles of one apply to the other. The silhouette of a typical asymmetric hydrofoil wing wouldn’t look out of place on a 737. It consists of a convex curve on the upper side and a flatter bottom side. These taper down toward the rear. Bernoulli’s principle explains that when air or water rushes over the top side of a wing, the medium has to travel farther, so it moves faster. This creates lower pressure on top, allowing the higher pressure on the bottom to push upward.

Sir Isaac Newton’s third law also applies to hydrofoils. The simplified version says that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. So, if a foil is directing the water down, it’s pushed back and the foil rises, creating lift. This effect is enhanced by an increased angle of attack at the leading edge to create more lift. In the case of Aquila’s Hydro Glide foil, it will still provide lift even if the boat’s bow is pointing down 3.5 degrees, which will be useful when running down-sea because it avoids transforming the hydrofoil into the equivalent of a down-planer or sea anchor.

Too much lift can also be a problem, according to Alain Raas, brand manager for Aquila Boats. “Because water is denser, a hydrofoil creates about 830 times more lift for the same area and speed compared to an airplane wing, so you can use a much smaller foil in water than air,” Raas says.

Most hydrofoils operate near the surface and can ventilate, which is a phenomenon that occurs when the low-pressure side of a foil pulls air from the surface and destroys lift on the foil, Raas explains. “Foil depth, sweep, dihedral and section shape all play a significant role in avoiding ventilation,” he adds.

Dueling Aquilas

We were able to arrange a test staging out of MarineMax in St. Pete Beach, Florida. MarineMax is Aquila’s exclusive distributor in the US. The Aquila brand is owned by the Sino Eagle Group, a high-tech Chinese builder that extensively uses vacuum-infusion technology to build the boats. J&J Design Group provided a complete design package for the Aquila 36 Sport.

Aquila is largely the brainchild of Lex Raas, Alain’s father and president of Aquila at MarineMax. Lex is South African, and his career journey has taken him from working for Beneteau (the world’s largest boatbuilder) to the Moorings (the world’s largest vacation charter operation) to MarineMax (the world’s largest boat dealer). While a big believer in power catamarans for their roominess and comfort, Lex didn’t like that most were converted sailing vessels. The unveiling of the Aquila 36 Sport power catamaran in 2017, the company’s first outboard-powered model, ushered in a new era of high performance. Because these boats would be used on bareboat charters driven by skippers of varying degrees of expertise, they are purposely designed to be easy to pilot.

One Cool Cat

Our first sea trial began aboard the nonfoiled Aquila, joined by Alain Raas and Jacob Coyle, a MarineMax sales associate. When we headed out into the Gulf of Mexico through the Pass-a-Grille entrance, the wind was blowing 17 mph and gusting to 23 mph from the northwest, creating steep 4-foot waves. In other words, it was a glorious cat day.

Our nonfoiled test boat was powered by a pair of Mercury Verado 400 outboards derived from the Mercury Racing division. This engine does some serious overachieving given its smallish 2.6L inline-six-cylinder block, thanks to twin-scroll superchargers, which lend it substantial punch when a driver needs a blast of power. Ultra-rapid acceleration is less important for catamarans, which usually do best in rough water when kept at a steady speed that is faster than you would think.

Read Next: Aquila 36 Test

The big difference between most power cats and the 36-foot Aquila 36 Sport is the Aquila’s incredible 14-foot-7-inch beam, which creates a living room’s worth of space in the cockpit/salon for up to 26 passengers and is mostly enclosed by an optional hardtop. In addition to helping its optional Joystick Docking for Outboards system work more efficiently, this wide footprint creates an ultra-stable platform that will be reassuring to those without sea legs (or stomachs). It’s so stable, according to Alain, no customers have ever asked Aquila to install a Seakeeper gyrostabilizer.

Settling into a cruise speed of 33 mph felt like the cat’s happiest velocity for that sea state. The narrow profile of the twin hulls cleaved the water without the pounding that characterizes most monohulls when running into steep waves. We used a little bit of engine trim to bring the bow of the hulls out of the water to reduce drag and prevent bow steering, and the boat offered a smooth ride, even when we turned the beam to the waves. Narrower cats of similar lengths can snap-roll alarmingly in large beam seas, but the Aquila remained surprisingly level.

Heading into Bunces Pass is tricky because of shoaling on each side, but once through, it put us squarely into the Tampa Bay area’s recreational boating epicenter. With Egmont Key State Park and Fort De Soto Park to starboard and Shell Key Preserve to port, we were surrounded by great beaches that are perfect to nose up to. The Aquila 36 Sport Hydro Glide showed off its ability to float in just 2 feet of water with the engines trimmed up as we beached it. We beached the foil boat too. Even though the bottom of the foil is about a foot lower than the hulls, its extruded aluminum construction is stout enough to withstand being gently beached.

Time to Fly

Switching boats, we were curious to feel the difference the foil makes. The experience was subtle. The Hydro Glide foil is positioned just forward of the boat’s longitudinal center of gravity and set at zero degrees of attack, allowing the driver to use engine trim to increase the angle for optimal lift. On this boat, little trim is needed because the optimal angle of attack of the hydrofoil is only about 1.5 degrees, according to Lex. In our case, because the fuel tanks were almost full, we just trimmed the engines to their neutral position and let the weight of the fuel give the Aquila 36 Sport Hydro Glide its proper bow-up angle.

Because the Hydro Glide Foil System lifted the hull only about 6 inches, there was a general feeling of riding higher in the water, but the most tangible evidence was how the steering felt lighter and more responsive—an indication that the foil is running at its proper angle of attack. The wake behind us flattened out significantly, unlike the tall rooster tail and wake that shot aft from the nonfoiled boat. Offshore, it handled the steep chop well and felt best at a cruise speed of 38 mph. There was never a moment when it lost its lift from the foil.

Another difference lay in the cornering characteristics. Without the foil, the 36 Sport has a slight lean to the outside, which some find off-putting. With the Hydro Glide foil, the cat leaned slightly inward and felt nimbler as it carved hard turns. A driver can overcook it during extremely hard turns—the hulls can dig in and turn more sharply than expected—so whipping it into a corner like it’s a jet boat isn’t advised.

Foils that raise a boat’s hull entirely out of the water can plummet should the boat lose lift. But the dihedral V-shape of the Aquila’s foil allows it to descend a little at a time when exposed above the water. This results in gentle corrections in heave, or a boat’s up-and-down motion.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

The Aquila 36 Sport Hydro Glide reached plane in 6.4 seconds, which was 1.4 seconds faster than the nonfoiled boat. Its zero to 30 mph time was 2.4 seconds quicker, taking 12.4 seconds. While those might sound like modest gains, remember this test boat had twin 300 Mercury Verado engines—200 fewer horses than the nonfoiled boat. Of course, these 300s are the new-generation Mercury V-8 engines, featuring 4.6L in a naturally aspirated design instead of the 400′s 2.6L twin-supercharged powerplant. Having two more cylinders and 2 liters of increased displacement negates the need for supercharging because big blocks inherently have more low-end torque.

Most impressive was the lack of penalty for going fast on the 36 Sport Hydro Glide. Even at its top speed of 44.7 mph, it was still getting nearly 1 mpg, and the effect on its range was dramatic. At that speed with a full 356-gallon tank, we could theoretically travel the 322 miles from St. Pete Beach to Havana, though exceeding our 10 percent reserve. The nonfoiled Aquila 36 Sport, traveling at its top speed of 46.1 mph, would fall well short of reaching Key West (231 miles away) with a full tank. At its best cruise speed of 30.6 mph, the hydrofoil-equipped Aquila can go 381.5 miles, compared to the nonfoiled version’s 303.9-mile range, when traveling at 29.4 mph, factoring in a 10 percent reserve.

At first blush, opting for the Hydro Glide Foil System might cause sticker shock with its $32,452 price tag, which equates to running through about 13,000 gallons of fuel at $2.50 per gallon to recoup the investment. But if you factor in the difference in buying a pair of 300s versus 400s, the price is much closer, and you get a better-handling boat with more capability because of its increased range. Aquila 36 Sport owners will be happy to discover the Hydro Glide Foil System can be retroactively fitted at an estimated additional labor cost of $10,000. Twin 300s are the max power with the foil because higher speeds cause cavitation, which then adds drag. But the improvements in ride, acceleration and range make this the biggest no-brainer on the options list.

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fulcrumspeedworks

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WHAT IS IT?

The UFO is a simplistic modern hydrofoiling boat, that allows anyone to fly through the air, freeing the hull from draggy water. More stable than the International Moth -or even a child’s pram- with a simple rig, and a set of fully retractable hydrofoils, all for $11,500 USD the UFO makes flying attainable. Thousands less than it’s nearest competition.  Built in the United States in high volume and quality control, the UFO maintains a one-design philosophy, creating close and exciting racing on foils!

FLY WITH THE UFO

• Designed and built in the USA
• $11,500 USD
• Compatible and rewarding to all skill levels
• Lightweight for easy maneuverability
• Solid, nearly dent-proof, hull
• Unique patented hull and rig designs
• Stable on and above the water
• Small footprint for carefree storage and shipping
• Takeoff from about 8knts of wind
• Fast, fun, easy to control foiling

FUN FOR ALL AGES

The wand system controlling the foils, which can be set to fly very high, very low (even ‘no fly mode’) and all points in between. This means you can progressively add challenges to your UFO experience as you feel ready for them, from ‘beginner mode’ all the way to ‘extreme mode’. Additionally, the highly tunable sail can be set up to provide only the amount of power that your body type needs, and no excess. This means that the UFO is accessible and fun for sailors of all sizes, ages and skill levels. Merely set up the boat for your skill level and body type and go play around.

The UFO is very broadly applicable and has flown payloads from 70 pounds -a tiny kid- to 270 pounds -a tall grown man and a teenage boy-. The foil package just needs power to climb. Ultra light sailors have been caught on camera flying in 5 knots of breeze and the baseline for 225 pound sailors to take off is 10 knots. 270 flies in 12 knots of breeze.

SETUP AND BREAKDOWN

While the boat can be left on shore with everything in place, but the sail down, that doesn’t mean the UFO isn’t easy to put together or take apart. Quite the opposite. Simplicity begets simplicity and the boat is a cinch to put together and take apart.

MANAGEABILITY

Being small is it’s own reward when it comes to handling the boat through all sailing experiences. When you start to really push yourself learning to foil, there are good odds you’ll manage to capsize it. The UFO is easy to right from capsizes and even full “turtle” inversions. This last part is critical, because when catamarans are too heavy to right from turtle the only option is to make the mast float. This has the unintended downside of making the boat very likely to blow away from you. The UFO is designed to stay right alongside you in the event you are separated from the boat. Additionally, the boat possesses an uncommon “park” mode in which it will hold station of its own accord, apparently indefinitely without external input of any kind. The full benefits of that upside have not begun to be fully exploited.

FOILING AT ALL POINT OF SAIL

The Fulcrum design team strictly adhered to the axion “if there’s a point of sail (say, upwind or downwind) that it can’t always foil on, you can’t call it a foiler”. The design team achieved their goal and the UFO is a fully flying boat on all points of sail, which drastically increases its fun-factor.

At what points of sail does the UFO foil at?

The UFO fully foils at all points of sail. Upwind, downwind and reaching.  Additionally, you can set it to  not foil when you’re tired and it will do that as well, so you can get home easily. These two factors make the UFO uniquely good for learning to foil.

Who can fly the UFO?

Within reason, anyone.

UFO pilots have ranged from 8 years old to 72, from 90 pounds to 235. Young sailors do well sailing as pairs or with a middleweight to light adult. It’s rare that anyone on the fulcrum team conceives of a boat with a narrow niche in mind. Why bother? It’s a mistake in yacht design to design a boat for a narrow range of users, when for the most part people are diverse and the objective of one-design boats is to garner large fleets. That said, the boat is likely to be most satisfactory in all wind conditions in the hands of teens, small and medium men and all women. At the extreme low end of the weight range, sailors may find themselves overpowered and at the extreme high end, the wind speed required for takeoff is about two knots higher than average. UFOs have been sailed “two up” as well, though the above limits of weight range still apply to the sum of the two sailors weights.

What wind and waves can I fly a UFO in?

The UFO will sail in practically any wind condition. However, it’s important to remember that with all sailboats there are days that are great to sail in and days where you do something else.

While the UFO can at times with a skilled skipper take off in very low wind speeds, the baseline for reliable flight is around eight knots. Trying to squeeze enough power to fly out of too little wind is tiresome and in those circumstances, it’s best to do something else. In 8 knots and above, flying is magical and unforgettable. In under 8 knots, the UFO reverts to being a pleasant displacement catamaran and goes from being exciting and fast to relaxing and tactical. This is another benefit of being a catamaran.

Over the last six years the UFO has proven to be uniquely good at flying safely and consistently in very high windspeeds. In multi-class foiling regattas the UFO has proven to be the only foiler built to date that simply  loves  high windspeeds. In winds above 22 knots when other foiling boats make for shore, the UFO wants to keep playing. The upper wind limit is more a matter of taste and skill. UFOs have been sailed in 36 knots, but that requires a great deal of skill and focus.  The UFO rig having shared DNA with a windsurf rig seems to play a part in the boat’s remarkable ability to get a kick out of big wind. Since the upper wind limit on the UFO is so much higher, this makes the number of optimal days to fly a UFO (if skilled in sailing one) higher per year than with any other production foiling boat.

Most chop and wave conditions present no issue for a UFO set for the days’ conditions. After all, powered hydrofoils were first developed by various leading Navy’s as a means of smoothly flying over challenging sea-states. Choking up the ride height helps the UFO fly smoothly through the bottom of the wave pattern, undeterred. Rolling seas present even less issue, as the UFO will ride along them just like any other. Extremely tight and tall chop can be very annoying, which is not peculiar to the UFO.

Waves do effect baseline windspeeds to achieve takeoff. Imagine getting a plane to take off on a bumpy runway. This is true for all hydrofoil boats. In choppy water, ten to twelve knots can be necessary to achieve fully easy takeoffs. Some UFO sailors use aggressive kinetic techniques to overcome this and take off in choppy water and low wind.

Will I fly my first time out?

Most people do, but bear in mind that flying is a whole new experience and it takes some learning.

Conditions, setup and technique matter and if you use it incorrectly, you are likely to get some degree of incorrect results. That’s the challenge that the UFO is built to address. Over six years on the market and over 500 boats delivered, the UFO has proven to be the best and most reliable platform for ordinary sailors to reliably teach themselves foiling technique on.

What happens when I crash my UFO into something?

You’ll probably do some damage to it.

The UFO is built with durability as a core objective but it’s worth noting that the gulf between “Feather light under engineered ragged-edge high performance craft” and “literally indestructible” is extremely wide. The UFO represents neither of these extremes. Do not attempt your first flight inside a densely packed mooring field. Obstacles only make you better once you’ve mastered the basics.

How easy is it to rig a UFO?

Best in class, vs other foiling boats on the market. With that said, it’s not easier than doing nothing. Doing nothing is very easy! Putting a boat together is worthwhile but obviously involves effort.

The current cartop to launched speed record is roughly 15 minutes. Socket the mast together. Attach the boom and stays in one go. Step the rig. Flip the boat on its side, insert the foils, right the boat, hoist the sail and launch. Complexity is best avoided.

Leaving the UFO on a dock or a beach with the rig in and the foils simply in the “up” position, achieves an ease of daily use on par with any light beach cat. To go foiling all you need to do is hoist the sail with the halyard, clip the sail to the boom and attach the downhaul line and you’re ready to launch. This brings setup and breakdown to a matter of five minutes or less.

How do I launch and land a UFO?

Far far far more easily than any other foiling boat on the market.

Because the UFO is a very small catamaran, while floating the hulls float relatively deep in the water and create lateral resistance, like the hulls on a hobie 16 or hobie wave. This means that it can sail upwind without a daggerboard of any kind in the water. This is not the case with non-catamaran foilers. The rudder is outfitted with a friction brake and a down-halyard to allow its depth to vary and allow steering in shallow water. So from 16 inches of water and beyond, you can sail away from and back to shore reliably.

Because the UFO’s forward foil assembly is located  in front of  the mast, the UFO can tack and gybe while the forward foil is fully withdrawn from the water. This is unique. It allows the UFO to navigate reliably in the period between launching or landing and flying. The benefits for usability and safety cannot be overstated.

Once you’ve got to deep enough water, lower your foils fully and fly away!

That’s if you’re using a dolly.

If you aren’t using a dolly, the UFO has even more party tricks to show off. Since the foils withdraw to above the waterline of the hull, the hull can be beached or slid up onto a dock float or boat deck without any risk to damaging the foils. The UFO is a boat that’s eager to go sailing.

Can I easily cartop a UFO?

At this hull weight, the boat is very easy to put on top of a car, and its flat bottoms allow it to be strapped down hard with no drama. The other components of the boat collapse down to the point of easily fitting in a standard hatchback.

Where can I store my UFO?

Anywhere you can carry it to. Anywhere it fits.

Behind couches, under beds, under porches, in basements, inside larger boats, chained to apartment fire escapes, hanging in garages. Anywhere it can go that’s convenient for your lifestyle is a good place for it to go.

Why does X look like Y? Surely it would be better to make it like Z.

Just trust us.

If you’ve thought of it, we’ve weighed the pros and cons and its been included or excluded for good reason. Creating a boat that can be produced at an affordable price, for a wide range of sailors with a maximum quantity of accessible performance is an extremely hard target to hit. The UFO meets all of its objectives and does so by blatantly ignoring a few conventions and norms. You simply don’t make an omelet without breaking eggs.

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The Need for Speed: Finding the Fastest Hydrofoil Boat in 2023

• July 2, 2023
• Hydrofoil Equipment Reviews , Hydrofoil Innovations

Are you ready to ride the waves at top speed? If you're a thrill-seeker seeking the fastest hydrofoil boat, you've come to the right place! At Hydrofoiling™, we're all about hydrofoil boarding, and today we're diving deep into the world of hydrofoil boats to find the fastest one on the market in 2023. Strap in and get ready for an exhilarating ride!

Table of Contents

Introduction, how does a hydrofoil boat work, the need for speed: finding the fastest hydrofoil boat, elevating the competition: the electra hydrofoil ferry, when can you sail the seas with electra, faq: answers to your burning questions, quick tips and interesting facts, useful links.

In the exhilarating world of hydrofoil boarding, speed is key. Hydrofoil boats harness the power of lift to soar above the water, allowing for incredible speeds and an unparalleled experience on the water. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, an adrenaline junkie, or simply love the feeling of gliding over the waves, finding the fastest hydrofoil boat is a must.

But what exactly is a hydrofoil boat and how does it work? Let's take a closer look.

A hydrofoil boat is a type of watercraft that uses a set of wings, or foils, to lift the hull out of the water as it gains speed. By reducing drag and increasing lift, hydrofoil boats are able to achieve higher speeds than traditional boats.

The foils are typically located beneath the hull and are designed to generate lift as the boat gains speed. As the boat accelerates, the foils create an upward force that raises the hull out of the water. This reduces the drag caused by the water and allows the boat to reach higher speeds.

Hydrofoil boats are propelled by either a motor or the force of the wind for sailing hydrofoils. The combination of the lifting force generated by the foils and the propulsion system allows hydrofoil boats to reach incredible speeds.

When it comes to finding the fastest hydrofoil boat, there are several factors to consider. Speed is influenced by various factors, including the design of the foils, the power of the propulsion system, and the overall structure of the boat.

To find the fastest hydrofoil boat on the market, our team has extensively researched and analyzed various models. After careful consideration, we've identified the ELECTRA hydrofoil ferry as the current leader in speed and performance.

The ELECTRA hydrofoil ferry is a true powerhouse in the world of hydrofoil boats. Developed by Acta Marine and designed by C-Job Naval Architects, this cutting-edge vessel boasts proprietary hydrofoil technology that allows it to reach world-record speeds.

Key Features of the ELECTRA Hydrofoil Ferry:

• SkySail: The ELECTRA features a unique SkySail system that harnesses wind power to assist in propulsion, making it incredibly energy-efficient.
• Advanced Hydrofoil Technology: The vessel incorporates the latest advancements in hydrofoil design, including computer-optimized foil shapes and adjustable flap systems for optimal performance.
• Long Range: With its efficient design, the ELECTRA can cover far-reaching routes with just three hours of charging time.
• Spacious and Comfortable: The hydrofoil ferry offers a comfortable and spacious interior, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey for passengers.

With its impressive speed and innovative features, the ELECTRA hydrofoil ferry has set a new standard for hydrofoil boats. If you're looking for the fastest hydrofoil boat on the market, the ELECTRA is the one to beat .

The highly anticipated ELECTRA hydrofoil ferry is set to sail the seas in the near future. While an exact date is not yet available, Acta Marine is working diligently to bring this revolutionary vessel to reality.

To stay updated on the latest developments and be among the first to experience the speed and thrill of the ELECTRA, be sure to follow Acta Marine's website and social media channels. We'll keep you informed as soon as the ELECTRA hits the water!

What is the maximum speed of a hydrofoil boat?

The maximum speed of a hydrofoil boat can vary depending on various factors, such as design and propulsion system. However, top-performing hydrofoil boats can reach speeds of 50 knots or more.

What is the fastest hydrofoil?

As of 2023, the ELECTRA hydrofoil ferry is considered the fastest hydrofoil boat on the market. With its cutting-edge technology and innovative design, it has set a new standard for speed and performance.

Are hydrofoil boats faster than traditional boats?

Yes, hydrofoil boats are generally faster than traditional boats. The lifting force generated by the foils reduces drag and allows hydrofoil boats to achieve higher speeds.

How fast is the sailboat racing hydrofoil?

Sailboat racing hydrofoils, such as those used in the America's Cup, can reach incredible speeds. These high-performance vessels are capable of reaching speeds of up to 60 knots or more, making for thrilling and adrenaline-pumping races.

• Always wear proper safety gear when operating a hydrofoil boat or engaging in hydrofoil boarding activities.
• Practice and familiarize yourself with the controls and handling of the hydrofoil boat before attempting high-speed maneuvers.
• Hydrofoil boats are not only fast but also more fuel-efficient than traditional boats, making them an eco-friendly choice.
• Did you know? The first hydrofoil boat was developed in the early 20th century by Italian engineer Enrico Forlanini.
• Fun fact: The world record for the fastest hydrofoil boat is held by the hydrofoil sailing yacht "Vestas Sailrocket 2," which reached a speed of 75.69 knots (139.91 km/h) in 2012.
• Acta Marine : The official website of Acta Marine, the developer of the ELECTRA hydrofoil ferry.
• Check Price on Amazon : Explore a variety of hydrofoil boats available for purchase on Amazon.
• Check Price on Walmart : Discover a selection of hydrofoil boats on Walmart.
• Check Price on Etsy : Find unique hydrofoil boat-related products on Etsy.
• Hydrofoiling™ : Visit the Hydrofoiling™ website to learn more about the exciting world of hydrofoil boarding.

• Acta Marine
• C-Job Naval Architects
• America's Cup
• Enrico Forlanini
• Vestas Sailrocket 2

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.

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Best hydrofoil boats: 6 of the most spectacular foiling motorboats money can buy

• Electric boats
• Top stories

Foiling technology has really taken off in the past few years. We pick out 6 of the best hydrofoil boats you can buy right now…

With its roots in the 19th century, foiling technology is as old as the hills, but in the past five years we’ve noticed an explosion of hydrofoil boats coming onto the market.

In part inspired by the foiling raceboats of the America’s Cup , the popularity of foiling is easy to understand – fuel efficiency gains are substantial, noise is almost eliminated (particularly if your foiling boat also happens to be an electric boat ) and they look as cool as a snowman in a freezer!

To help you understand the dizzying array of foiling boats available right now, we’ve put together the following guide to what we think are the most promising designs out there.

6 of the best hydrofoil boats

SEAir foiling RIB

Founded in 2016, French yard SEAir builds foiling RIBs, having been inspired by the speed of foiling racing yachts.

We tested their 5.5m model back in 2018 and since then they have expanded their range to cover superyacht chase boats, commercial and military vessels.

Our tester recorded a top speed of 32 knots, with the foils doing their best work at around 20 knots, but SEAir claims that 42 knots is possible in the right conditions.

Read more about the SEAir foiling RIB

Article continues below…

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A dual helm set-up allows the boat to be piloted from the bow or the cockpit. Photo: Guillaume Plisson

Enata Foiler

Dubai-based Enata Marine added a healthy dose of glamour to the world of foiling boats in 2018 with the launch of its Foiler.

In addition to a superyacht tender-worthy exterior, this 32fter includes a bow window for spectacular views while underway.

A 40-knot top speed and a 190nm range makes this a very appealing option, although the premium price tag of $938,000 may put some off.

Read more about the Enata Foiler

Princess R35

When British boatbuilding giant Princess Yachts got in on the foiling boat game in 2019 with a 35ft carbon-fibre dayboat, we knew that things had really taken off.

While the foil-assisted R35 may not have the spectacular cruising-above-the-waves appeal of some other foiling boats, it is highly efficient, beautifully designed (in collaboration with Pininfarina) and handles like nothing else we’ve ever driven.

In our review, we praised its rare combination of agility, refinement and stability, with spray kept in check impressively at high speeds.

Read more about the Princess R35

The foiling Candela C-8 is the first boat to use Candela’s proprietary C-POD, but bigger craft will follow later

Candela C-8

Swedish firm Candela burst onto the scene in 2021 with its debut, the Candela C-7 , which was billed as the world’s first electric foiling boat, but it was the 2022 launch of the Candela C-8 that really moved the game on.

Available with a 69kWh battery, adapted from the Polestar 2 electric car, owners can expect a range of 57nm at 22 knots, more than enough for dayboat use.

The consumption figures are truly staggering, with Candela’s figures suggesting that the C-8 is more than 12x more efficient than an equivalent 300hp outboard powered sportsboat.

Read more about the Candela C-8

The electric Iguana is capable of three knots on the land and 30 knots at sea

Iguana Foiler

Not content with being at the forefront of the amphibious boats market with its caterpillar-track offering, French yard Iguana has set its sights on the world of foiling too.

Announced last year, the Iguana Foiler will be powered by the world’s most powerful electric outboard engine, the 300hp Evoy Storm .

Having tested both the engine and the boat separately, we can’t wait to see the result when they come together with the added advantages of foiling technology. Watch this space…

Read more about the Iguana Foiler

The foils lift up at slow speeds to reduce the draft

Mantaray M24

Another exciting model in the hydrofoil boats pipeline, this 24ft runabout is particularly interesting is its simplicity. Unlike its main foiling rival, the Candela C-7, the Mantaray M24 requires no complicated electronics to ‘fly’.

Instead it uses the builder’s patented mechanical hydrofoil system, which it has trademarked as Dynamic Wing Technology or DWT. The technology is said to be the result of ten years’ development work and uses a retractable T-foil in the bow and H-foil amidships that self-stabilise mechanically.

This allows it to lean naturally into corners and ride serenely over waves without relying on a network of sensors and algorithms to monitor and adjust the foils. If it proves effective this could drastically reduce the cost and complexity of foiling boats, while simultaneously increasing reliability.

Read more about the Mantaray M24

It doesn’t end here, with fascinating one-off projects from Spirit Yachts and BMW on the water, it’s clear that foiling has a huge potential for transforming the world of boating.

Read more about hydrofoil technology

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• Jan 25, 2023

Are We Finally Ready for the Hydrofoil Pleasure Boat Era?

With recent advances in technology and performance, the signs are starting to point to 'yes.'

Most of us have watched the latest sailboats entered in America's Cup as they race along at spectacular speeds. You may have also noticed they use hydrofoils under their boat to achieve these speeds. But what exactly is a hydrofoil boat ? Are they practical? Do they represent the future in boating? Let us discuss.

My first exposure to a hydrofoil boat was about 50 years ago when a Russian-built aluminum boat with foils was giving a demonstration on Lake Ontario, near Port Credit. The boat travelled back and forth, parallel to the shore, gradually increasing speed with each run. Suddenly, the boat appeared to lift and stuff into a wave, coming to an abrupt stop and taking on a large quantity of water. One of the passengers was seriously injured. Having witnessed this, I remained skeptical about the use of hydrofoils -- until now.

Boat builders have always known that water drag is a major consideration when designing an efficient watercraft. Drag created by water is said to be 800 times greater than the drag created by air. Try swinging your arm back and forth through the air in front of you. Now imagine standing in a swimming pool and swinging your arm underwater, through the same pattern. Over the years, boat designers have dealt with this in different ways. Most large boats push their way through the water, moving it to the side as they travel. These are displacement hulls . Today, most smaller pleasure boats have a combination of hull shape and sufficient horsepower to accelerate up out of the water and get on plane at much faster speeds. These are planing boats . With less of their hull in the water they have a reduced wetted surface, which translates to less drag.

So if boat performance is improved by having it ride higher in the water, why not raise it out of the water altogether? That was part of the thinking behind the development of hydrofoils. Underwater "wings" were experimented with as far back as 1869 , with varying degrees of success. The hydrofoil concept has slowly expanded ever since. Before evaluating the pros and cons of foil boats , lets be sure we understand exactly how they work.

Air and water are governed by similar fluid equations, so an easy way to explain foil action is to compare their forces to aircraft wings. Hydrofoils are shaped with a slightly curved upper surface and a flatter lower surface. When water meets the leading edge of a foil, some water molecules split upwards and some split downwards. The water passing over the top of the wing travels downwards over the greater distance of the curved top surface versus the flatter bottom surface. This causes the water molecules over the top surface to travel faster. To put it more clearly, the water flow around the foil has a higher average velocity on the topside than on the bottom side. This difference in water molecule speeds creates a lower pressure stream on the top of the foil than the water travelling along the more direct route on the lower surface of the foil. The pressure difference creates a force on the foil that pulls it upwards in the water, thereby lifting the boat with it. At the same time there is a second force also acting to lift the foil. The water leaving the bottom of the curved foil is forced downward by the water exiting the top. Therefore, as per Isaac Newton's third law of motion, the downward water force creates an equal and opposite upward force on the foil pushing it upwards. These combined lifting forces on the foil eventually exceed the downward gravitational force of the boat and the boat lifts. The lifting continues until it reaches a point where the hydrofoil reaches its maximum designed lift potential. At that point, the upward force of the foil equals the downward gravitational force of the boat. With this balance of forces the boat is flying in equilibrium.

Interestingly, these same two forces apply to a powerboat propeller as it generates thrust and a sailboat sail as it moves a sailboat.

There are two general classifications for hydrofoils. The first is "surface piercing" partially submerged 'V' shaped foils. The second are known as "fully submerged' flat shaped foils. Flat foils are less subject to the effects of wave action, but usually need to be adjusted, either manually or by computer, to meet different sea conditions.

From a dead stop, the boat operates as a displacement hull until about 18 mph at which point the lift becomes effective. As you might expect, foil lift increases as the boat travels faster until it meets equilibrium. Top speeds will vary considerably depending upon the weight, length, and power of the boat. With today's modern designs , a top speed of 50 mph is not uncommon.

Adjustable foils are what permit such noteworthy speeds, but as foil adjustments exceed 13 degrees the foil can enter a "stall" just like an aircraft wing. This will happen when the water flowing over the top of the foil can no longer adhere to the surface and breaks into turbulence. There is no mistaking this when it occurs, as lift is suddenly lost.

After looking at some of the advantages to having a hydrofoil boat, you may want to go right out and buy one. Hydrofoil boats are known for speed. They are considerably faster than an equivalent sized boat with the same horsepower. Say goodbye to rough water discomfort. While your current boat runs along the surface of the water the hull on a hydrofoil does not touch the water, so there is no negative impact. The foil is the only part of the boat in the water, and it is running in the smooth water below the surface. Boat wakes that normally create a bumpy ride are totally smoothed out. A foil ride is not only smoother, it is dryer. A standard pleaseureboat in choppy water will slap water out to the side, and it can come back at passengers in the boat. Foils raise the height of a boat, where you are far less likely to experience spray.

Here is another big advantage: the reduced drag with a foil means that the fuel to distance ratio of a foil boat is maximized. This means you save on fuel, which is a major percentage of operating costs. Of course, when your fuel consumption decreases your boat's range also increases, allowing you to travel to those places that you did not dare to reach for previously.

With so many advantages to having a hydrofoil boat, we have to ask why every boater doesn't have one? Like every boat, foils also have some disadvantages. First of all, they are 'different.' Boaters do not like 'different.' Only when 20% of boaters get something new with their boat does it become accepted, but when a new design achieves that magic percentage suddenly the other 80% want the same thing. Hydrofoils have a long way to go before they represent 20% of boat sales.

Most of the manufacturers that I contacted cited premium costs as the number one reason for low hydrofoil sales. Much of this high cost is the research invested into foil design for each specific boat. Hopefully, the research costs will gradually come down as more foil boats enter the market. A second reason for higher foil prices is the additional materials required during manufacturing. While buyers will recoup some of their original cost through the efficiency of a hydrofoil, the current higher cost remains a major disadvantage.

Hydrofoil manufacturers admit that some foil boats can be more difficult to drive than a typical runabout. They are more difficult to steer and turn. This is never a good thing when it comes to recreational boating. And if conditions create an unequal lift, the operator must be able to feel this difference and make driving adjustments accordingly.

And lastly, an obvious disadvantage of foils is having these appendages under your boat when driving at a speed where you are not raised by the foil. In many waters you could find yourself in need of paying special attention to water depth. And when you are not "flying" on the foils, they are simply creating drag. While listing foil concerns I should also note that if you have hydrofoils beneath your boat you will also need a custom built trailer.

Considering these pros and cons of hydrofoils, could they really represent the next generation of pleasure boat? The answer is yes -- but not quite yet. Any boat that delivers more speed, a smoother ride, and improves fuel economy is worth considering, but today's boat manufacturers are all missing one important ingredient. Once hydrofoil manufacturers introduce this missing factor in their designs, many of the concerns with foils will be eliminated and they will come into vogue. I know what is needed and I am watching closely to see if and when builders introduce this necessary change.

In the meantime, water sports enthusiasts are able to enjoy a variety of hydrofoil toys that are readily available. A "hydrofoil waterski," is like a large waterski that you sit on. Some have an internal electric motor and some are towed. Their lift and ride top out at around 25 mph. Hydrofoil kiteboards" and "Hydrofoil windsurfers" have also added a new dimension to kiteboarding and windsurfing. The addition of the foil makes your ride smoother and faster as you move with the wind.

As people become more accustomed to boats and water sports toys that employ hydrofoils, their advantages will certainly make them popular. Within a few years we may see 20% of pleasure boats using foils on pleasure boats. That's when you will want one too. #culture

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