flying yacht catamaran

THE FLYING YACHT The new era of sailing begins

Equipped to the highest standards, offering luxurious features to meet the requirements of the most influential and demanding patrons, FOILER is available in different layouts so that you can build a flying yacht to suit your needs. Whether you’re after family fun, a little (or a lot) of thrill-seeking, or that James Bond appeal, FOILER is a modular platform offering multiple layout options.

Raise your standards and sail above the waves at 40 knots in full comfort. Beauty meets science in the 2019 evolution of the FOILER.

With a novel 740 hp hydrostatic propulsion system and ENATA's custom torpedoes, the FOILER continues to revolutionise the way you explore the seas.

The hydro-foiling system enables the boat to fly 1.5 metres above the water, providing an unmatched experience where speed and reactivity are the centrepieces.

Experience a unique sense of tranquillity and comfort at high speeds. Anchored in the water by four powerful foils, the FOILER is both extremely stable and immune to wave interference. Driving the FOILER is surprisingly easy and effortless, and the subtle luxury will make any sailing session a relaxing and memorable experience.

Voyage into luxury in complete serenity as you experience something new. The FOILER glides above the water, while her retractable foils and futuristic design deliver a unique presence and bold extravagance. FOILER will create a little drama in your life and turn heads - but who wouldn't want that?

Don't you feel the urge to fly?

It isn't a dream anymore. For the new generation of sailors, we are building your FOILER.

The flying megayacht: Italian designer devises exclusive catamaran blimp

The aerospace industry is currently living through an era of innovation, unlike anything it has seen in recent years. From drones and air taxis to sea gliders and new clean propulsion technologies, it seems that the floodgates of creativity are wide open following decades of slow but steady incremental advances. Even airships may be about to stage a comeback .

This passion for innovation is encouraging entrepreneurs from across the globe to propose ever more outlandish concepts — one of which is the eye-catching Air Yacht, a hybrid vehicle that looks like a crossover between an airship and a catamaran.

This futuristic aircraft is the work of Italian designer Pierpaolo Lazzarini, founder of Rome -based Lazzarini Design Studio, which has designed a number of innovative projects for the automotive, yachting and aerospace industries.

Composed of two large parallel blimps linked together by carbon fiber bridges that hold the whole structure together, the amphibious Air Yacht would be able to move almost seamlessly through the air and water. Passengers and cargo would travel in a rigid, aerodynamic cabin between the two blimp structures.

This levitating contraption, which would be powered by hydrogen and solar power from its rooftop panels, would be able to reach speeds of up 70 knots (nearly 81 mph) when flying and 5 knots (almost 6 mph) when sailing, its designers say.

The choice of hydrogen is an interesting one, as other recent airship projects have opted to use helium instead of hydrogen.

Asked about this decision, a spokesperson at the design studio said it opted for hydrogen due to its larger lifting power, which makes it possible to limit the volume of the blimps. Despite hydrogen being flammable, current technologies and materials make it possible to use the gas safely and securely, the studio says.

While the original concept measured a whopping 265 meters (869 feet) long and was capable of carrying 200 passengers, the latest iteration is much more compact at 100 meters (328 feet) long. (Presumably, it would have a somewhat lower payload, too.)

The Air Yacht has a stated flying endurance of 48 hours, and it is being designed to allow for boarding and deboarding while on the move. Helicopters would be able to land on a helipad located on top of the cabin to drop off or pick up passengers, the studio says.

Given the limited number of travelers with access to helicopters, it's not surprising that the aircraft concept is targeted at wealthy individuals as a flying megayacht of sorts. The luxe cabin design features a shipowner's suite that occupies the central space and provides 360-degree views. Additionally, there are five smaller suites, plus a large area for lounging and dining.

Although Lazzarini Design Studio has yet to secure investors for the Air Yacht, the studio is moving forward with testing a 30-meter (98-foot) scale model in Germany later this year.

There will likely be some unexpected challenges in this next phase of the Air Yacht's production journey, and only time will tell whether this latest aircraft will help spark a renewed interest in airships.

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

• November 1, 2023
• Hydrofoil Basics

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How fast is the hydrofoil catamaran?

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

How does a foil catamaran work?

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

What happened to hydrofoils?

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

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

Are hydrofoil boats more efficient?

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

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

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

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

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

Review Team

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

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

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“iFLY15 is the unique combination of high performance with easy accessibility – for maximum performance and maximum fun.”

Cec catamarans -ifly15 team, “we love speed while keeping control – high speed needs to be controllable. the flying boat of the future, is a stable foiling sport catamaran.”, cec catamarans – ifly15 team, „ foiling: one of the things you have to experience to really feel it. “, jimmy spithill, skipper oracle team usa, “stable flight is the key to high performance sailing”, “ifly15 – get the balance right between a nice sporting challenge and a reasonable and controllable level – enjoy the exhilaration, the speed and the adrenaline in your veins, but always stay master of the situation “, “stable flight attitude is the most important prerequisite for high performance sailing.”, victor diaz de leon, sailgp team usa, “stable flight attitude is key for easy foiling. ifly15 with superior flight stability delivers immediate flying fun within the first minutes. advantage through high-tech.”, “the ifly15 is the quickest boat around the course, … “, arno terra – sailor, ifly 15 one design and ifly razzor pro, the  performance  foiling  catamaran, for maximum speed and maximum control.

• Easy access to a high HIGH PERFORMANCE FOILING CATAMARAN
• Automated DYNAMIC FLIGHT Assistance SYSTEM – FLYSAFE® FOIL CONTROL
• highest quality standards – High-tech full carbon sailboat
• completely modular – fully customizable
• adjustable rake – MAIN FOIL DIFFERENTIAL during sailing for even more performance in the version IFLY Razzor Pro
• Foiling Versatility and Speed …

The quality and performance have been proven for 8 years and further developed to maximum perfection in every detail

IFLY HYDROFOIL SAILING – EXCELLENCE, FIELD PROVEN TO PERFECTION

Racing     and     more   …..

 Have a high performance racing machine on regattas

  single handed or double Foiling

  crew weight up to 180 kg

  Racing and fun:

  Sail with Family & friends

in any sailing condition:

  Full foiling – upwind and downwind

  Waves and Flat waters

  Light and strong winds

  early take off

  Foiling maneuvers

Transport and Facilities

  Easily transportable on a road trailer

  Slipped with a conventional beach trolley

  ready to sail in 20 minutes

  iFLY15 is designed to sail on the sea and lakes

Stay tuned for foiling events and specials!

Flysafe® Flight assistance

Main foil differential technology – mdt, innovative, sophisticated foil control for unbeaten performance, high speeds and easy access, ifly15 and ifly razzor pro, ifly main foil differential – mdt, ifly razzor pro.

early take off in lightest breeze

F oiling maneuvers are heavily supported, superior flight attitude through active foil control, dynamic control of f light high , pitch and role, non-linear control and feedback control system for best flight stability, even in waves, the foils do not need to be manually manipulated, optimized performance: advanced sailors can adjust rake and gearing, more about flysafe®>>>, active flight assistance, the foil can be trimmed actively while sailing, the key to maximum performance , mdt for performance-orientated pro sailor, mdt extends the flysafe® foil control, to sail large xxl rigs, more about main foil differential ->>>, performance downwind: staying on the foils, full foiling, in 5-6kts tws, reaching max. boat speeds of up to 2.5*tws, performance upwind: full foiling from 8kts. tws, taking off from 7kts tws, video youtube channel, ifly15 foiling catamaran.

The most innovative development in foiling technology

About ifly15, stable flight  is  key for both: first for highest performance and foiling in a wide wind range, including rough and wavy conditions, but also easy access into foiling…...

iFLY stands for uniqueness in design and function. Its superior Flysafe ® active foil control system autonomously supports the stable horizontal flight position in the longitudinal and lateral direction. The 4 T-Foils do not have to be operated by the sailor during sailing.

Average skilled dinghy or catamaran sailors with some trapeze experience can safely foil with the iFLY15 after only a few hours. Quick access – the immediate sensation of success – steep learning curve. In the hand of an experienced sailor, iFLY15 offers a whole new sailing experience with previously not experienced speeds and agile maneuverability.

The flight control system, combined with numerous fine-tuned innovations , ensures safe foiling even in strong winds and rough seas.. Stable flight attitude allows pushing hard, so in good conditions, iFLY reaches high boat speed beyond 30 knots in a controllable way.

IFLY15 offers freedom to fly alone or in pairs. Due to the exclusive use of high-tech materials , iFLY15 is extremely rigid and weighs less than 90 kilos ready to sail. With its low weight and its state-of-the-art hydrofoils, it is airborne in winds as low as 2Bft. / 6 Knots.

iFLY15 has a length of only 15 feet, is easy to transport, quick to get ready to sail, and can be easily slipped from the beach using a conventional beach trolley.

Its sophisticated design reflects the highest demands on quality and function.

iFLY15 – customer reviews

 « LESS CRASHING IS MORE FUN »

MARCUS LYNCH, PROFESSIONAL SAILOR AND OLYMPIC COACH, GC32 OMAN, NACRA17

« I WAS INITIALLY AMAZED AT HOW EASY TO HANDLE THE IFLY IS AND AT HOW IDLE THE BOAT IS EVEN IN STRONG WINDS. »

ANTOINE, IFLY OWNER FROM GENEVA

VERY STABLE, EXTRAORDINARY STABLE. IT IS EXTREMELY INTERESTING, BECAUSE YOU IMMEDIATELY SEE THE ACCESSIBILITY OF THE BOAT.

FRANÇOIS GABART

« GREAT BOAT, LIKE A MOTH ON STEROIDS ! »

VICTOR DIAZ DE LEON, MIAMI, PROFESSIONAL SAILOR. US TEAM SAILGP, INTERNATIONAL MOTH, MATCHRACING MELGES 32, J70

WHAT A GREAT BOAT THIS IS, AND I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT”

PHILIP WALKER

« THE DYNAMIC FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEM ALLOWS LONG AND STABLE FLIGHTS »

GERHARD FLORIN, IFLY OWNER FROM GENEVA, SWITZERLAND

TO FELLOW SAILORS WHO LOVE THE THRILL OF SAILING WITH SPEED WHILE MAINTAINING CONTROL”

ROY BALLENTINE

« WELL BALANCED AND RAKE DIFFERENTIAL ALLOWING FOR GREAT PERFORMANCE UPWIND! »

CARLOS ROBLES,PROFESSIONAL SAILOR 49ER, PALMA DE MALLORCA

« A SENSATIONAL FOILING EXPERIENCE. THE SPEED IS IMPRESSIVE »

INGMAR WARNICKE: COMMODORE OF YCSO, YACHT CLUB SCHARBEUTZ, BALTIC SEA

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IFLY RAZZOR PRO – THE NEW IFLY FOR EXPERIENCED SAILORS

THE SINCE 7 YEARS PROVEN IFLY15 WITH FLYSAFE® DYNMAMIC FOIL CONTROL has now a pur Racing fellow: THE iFLY RAZZOR Pro. THE iFLY racing VERSION ENABLES EVEN HIGHER PERFORMANCE, to sail in extremely tough conditions and allows sailing with XXL rigs. THE MAIN DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE IFLY15 ONE DESIGN AND THE IFLY RAZZOR PRO IS A BIGGER RACING RIG, SPECIAL FOILS AND THE MAIN FOIL DIFFERENTIAL (MDT), WHICH IS MANUALLY TRIMMED BY THE SAILOR. THE MDT IS WORKING HAND IN HAND WITH THE FLYSAFE® DYNAMIC FOIL CONTROL SYSTEM.

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ROUND TEXEL RACE 2024

“We’re taking off! Foiling is THE Watersports Trend! – „Boot International 2024“ in Düsseldorf / Germany once again showcases: Foiling is THE trend in watersports.

Performance Sailing – Sail GP News: Racing on the Edge – T-Foil proves to be the winning design

Regatta and foiling News: Long distance Race – Duc d’Albe 2023 – Club Multicoques Hyères – sailing Race @iFLY Razzor Pro

iFLY Main Foil Differential Technology – MDT Foil Control – high Performance sailing

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Long distance Race – Duc d’Albe 2021 – Club Multicoques Hyères – sailing Race @iFLY Razzor Pro

INTERNATIONAL IFLY foiling FLEET RACE 2021

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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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Boat of the Week: This Wild Flying Yacht Concept Converts a Magnificent Sailing Vessel Into a Jet-Size Airplane

The fantabulous flying yacht design has four 133-foot masts carrying 14,000 square feet of sail, and when the sails retract, the masts become wings., michael verdon, michael verdon's most recent stories.

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Forget flying cars. One bold designer wants to help you live out your Baron Munchausen dreams.

The Flying Yacht, a new concept by designer Yelken Octuri, takes two potentially conflicting forms of transport and melds them into one spectacularly wild vessel: an ocean trimaran that converts into a jet-size aircraft. In “Boat” mode, the 152-foot length and 89-foot beam provide enough interior space to serve as a 10-person motoryacht, while in “Airplane” mode, the 297-foot wingspan and four engines deliver enough lift and propulsion for theoretical top speed of 210.5 knots, or 242 mph.

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An aircraft designer by trade, Octuri came up with the Flying Yacht concept after researching gargantuan 1940s aircraft like Howard Hughes’ H-4 Hercules, better known as the Spruce Goose, the largest flying boat ever built, or later flying boats like the Soviet Union’s Ekranoplan , which looked more like a monster jet stranded on the water than a boat. As the military vessel accelerated, ground effect—a cushion of air trapped beneath the hull—lifted it about 10 feet, so it glided over the water at tremendous speeds.

The Flying Yacht has an extra component—14,000 square feet of sail on four 133-foot-high masts—that makes it a much more complicated design, at least if it were going to function in the real world. The multifunction vessel uses the sails for propulsion, and when the sails retract, the masts lower to become wings.

Here’s the Flying Yacht with sails raised and wings preparing for takeoff. The sails retract into the body of the vessel.  Courtesy Octuri Design

Octuri’s website suggests that the Sail Yacht was actually built, but he’s quick to point out that the details are pure fantasy. “But I still get many people contacting me, asking to know the price,” he told Robb Report.

The designer literally threw engineering to the winds with this sci-fi concept. Octuri focused on what he thought looked cool, rather than develop a feasible plan for a crossover vessel.

“I know how tens of thousands of details go into designing any aircraft,” Octuri says. “If I wanted to compile all that data to build this concept, it’d take a lifetime. I decided to ignore the engineering when I started.”

octuriyachtflying  Courtesy Octuri Design

Still, Octuri’s 3-D visuals and focus on details—the yacht will have two main decks as well as half-decks in the bow and stern—as well as line drawings, give it a sense of authenticity. It looks like something that, well, could be feasible in 20 or 30 years. Or maybe it could appear sooner in an upcoming Star Wars movie.

“The trick is to stay open to your ideas,” he says. “Most of the time we censor them.”

A variation of this design could actually work, Octuri believes. “A more realistic approach would be a hybrid between an ekranoplan and catamaran,” he says. “That could function.”

Thanks to its 150-foot length and nearly 90-foot width, there is plenty of interior space. Here is the main deck salon, with stairs up to the staterooms.  Courtesy Octuri

When asked about his favorite feature of the Flying Yacht, the designer stops to think. “That’s hard to answer,” he says. “I guess the ability to help people dream.” Baron Munchausen would be proud.

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The world’s most radical yacht? Onboard Flying Nikka

• Toby Hodges
• October 13, 2022

Meet the world’s first foiling Maxi, Flying Nikka. Designed for Mediterranean distance racing, this 60ft spaceship is going to shake up the big boat scene, writes Toby Hodges after an exclusive first sail

You might understandably mistake this futuristic craft for another America’s Cup foiler . Yet, although the aesthetics may look similar, Flying Nikka is a very different animal to the AC75s which ripped around Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf during the 2021 America’s Cup – and to anything we’ve seen before. This 60ft foiling weapon is designed to be owner-driven and compete in key maxi and long distance Mediterranean races.

Flying Nikka has a keel and inherent stability as it needs to compete in displacement mode too. It also has the potential to embarrass any competitors by lifting onto its carbon foils and taking off at two to three times the speed of most other monohulls in existence.

Flying Nikka is the most complex, innovative and exciting big yacht of the year – a pure speed machine, a technological and engineering goliath and a brave endeavour. It pushes the boundaries of where displacement sailing and foiling technology meet for offshore (albeit non-ocean) monohull racing.

It is the vision of Italian owner Roberto Lacorte, designed by Mark Mills and constructed at King Marine in Valencia. Not only was its development impressively rapid from concept to first foiling, but it was built to a repeatable budget, around 1/10th the cost of a Cup boat. As Mills emphasises: “The core of the project was for reliable, easy foiling.” It is sailed by Lacorte and his long-standing crew, rather than Cup all-stars.

And while I was admittedly sceptical about the overall purpose of Flying Nikka , I was privileged to be given an exclusive sail aboard during the team’s early trials from Punta Ala, Italy, in July.

Flying Nikka looks rather Batman inspired, particularly the red leading edge of the black foils. Photo: Fabio Taccola

Flying Nikka – a need for speed

Roberto Lacorte, an entrepreneur, accomplished racing driver and serial yacht owner, explained how Flying Nikka materialised. His previous yacht, the Mills/Vismara 62 racer-cruiser SuperNikka , has been highly successful on the Med circuit since her 2015 launch, and he asked Mark Mills to scale SuperNikka up to a 75-77ft pure IRC racer without compromise.

It was at this time that the AC75 Luna Rossa was starting to foil in trials. “If that is happening, then in the middle [between IMOCA and AC] exists everything – a boat that can give us a lot of fun, use the technology and use the performance of the future,” muses Lacorte.

Don’t expect Flying Nikka to be attempting a Fastnet Race or Transatlantic though, as it is designed for Med coastal races. “The dream is to win the Med mid-distance races, like the Giraglia, in real time. Then to have something to compare to a supermaxi like Comanche or Skorpios yet be faster and more fun,” Lacorte continues.

“Yesterday we went 22-25 knots upwind, and over 30 knots downwind, with sails trimmed like it was upwind!” he grins with wide eyed enthusiasm.

Helmsman slot at the front of the cockpit to windward; immediately behind is the jib or mainsail trimmer (depending on tack). Photo: Fabio Taccola

“The goal was also to have a lower budget than a Maxi 72 and we did that,” says Lacorte, who is convinced that this could make an attractive box rule class, for owner drivers wanting to ramp their excitement levels up.

The realisation that the 60-footer could foil in 9 knots breeze, confirming the design theory and potential of the boat, was clearly a massive moment for the team (documented in an hour long film about the making of Flying Nikka ). “Flying first time was amazing, an emotion you cannot believe. But still nothing compares with what we discover day by day, hour after hour.”

Lacorte showed me to his futuristic-looking craft, leashed to the dock, its foils tucked below its body like a Transformers machine, waiting to unfold its arms and take flight. The forward sections have heavily chamfered topsides and a fine entry, then comes a concave foredeck, a sheer which rises significantly to the high midsection before tailing dramatically away like an AC75. Combine this peculiar shape with the severely raked, rotating mast, which seems comparatively short, and you start to realise how much revolves around aerodynamics and the need to minimise drag.

The all-carbon black hull and rig is grand prix cool too, adorned with red highlights, the Italian colours and Lacorte’s Cetilar Racing sponsorship. While Flying Nikka uses the canting foil arm technology of the Cup boats, where the windward arm lifts clear of the water to reduce drag, the key differences to an AC75 lie principally in the adjustable wingfoils and the ballasted bulbed keel, which ensures it can sail in displacement mode too.

Chase boat trailing in Flying Nikka’s wake struggles to keep up. Photo: Fabio Taccola

I was invited to join what was only the crew’s third day in race training mode. Docking out made it clear that this is still very much a yacht, which manoeuvres under its own steam and on its own keel, but with a crew looking like a mix of racing drivers and Cup competitors in impact vests, helmets and goggles. This is not exactly normal windward leeward training, I thought, boarding the 40ft chase boat.

The lengthy process of refuelling the Nikka RIB further hinted that we were in for a different kind of day, as the pump display nudged €1,500 for 750lt. Aboard was Fabrizio Marabini from data logging specialists Faro, who works closely with hydraulics guru Cariboni and monitors speeds, performance, loads and megatronix. As boat captain Fabrizio Turini entered waypoints on the RIB’s B&G for the day’s course, the speed with which Nikka then did a horizon job on us was sensational.

Gone in 60 seconds

Within a minute of bearing away Flying Nikka was sailing at over 20 knots, which is a job to catch however many hundreds of horsepower your RIB has. Immediately noticeable was just how reactive she is to gusts. Flying Nikka rises spectacularly high, like a great breaching leviathan. Ride heights and angles are then constantly adjusted as the crew dial the beast down while apparent wind shoots forward.

My chance to board soon came when Nikka ‘landed’ for the crew to change headsails. I then spent the rest of the afternoon enjoying a white knuckle ride that could suit the most fearless of adrenaline junkies.

ReFraschini built the carbon foils and rudders (having constructed the AC carbon plate arms). The foils are designed to take 10 tonnes load on one point. Photo: Fabio Taccola

Sailing aboard Flying Nikka was an alien experience for a number of reasons, not least the inability to fully understand what was happening. Not only are the crew all Italian, but they speak into headsets in their helmets. Even had I been able to hear them over the apparent wind noise – which is always different degrees of a gale – I wouldn’t have been able to interpret anything above the unrelenting engine noise. Reverberating through the bare carbon hull, this runs almost constantly at high revs to fuel the power packs to cope with hydraulic demands.

An obvious difference between Flying Nikka and the AC75s is the fixed keel. Photo: Fabio Taccola

Then there is the foreign motion. When foiling it’s largely level, so it’s the speed wobbles from side to side which are trickier to predict. Still, it was a truly gripping, brilliantly memorable experience.

I’d already witnessed how easily Flying Nikka takes flight. Yet even with the smaller J2 self-tacking headsail hoisted, as soon as there is over 9.5 knots true wind, it did what its name suggests and lifted up onto foils . Within seconds we were making 20 knots upwind in 11 knots at 20-25° to the apparent wind. And with it came some gratuitous acceleration.

Our simulated race involved a five mile leg to the windward mark. Great stretches of Elba island’s east coast became a distant blur as Flying Nikka maintained stable speeds in the low 20s and at one stage clocked 26 knots at 21° apparent in 14 knots!

Photo: Fabio Taccola

Then came something I really wasn’t expecting: a tack. My surprise turned to panic as I gripped to hold on, then to amazement at the speed with which the boat turned, and finally to amusement at the G-forces I’d just experienced. I was prepared for them after that. Once I saw the jib trimmer switch places with the mainsail trimmer I knew what was coming. The engine noise ramps up another notch as max hydraulics engage to dump the new leeward arm in the water, raise the now windward foil, pull the mainsail back up the track and trim sails.

Flight control

“The wing and [rudder] elevator are controlled by autopilot software, then we play manually with the cant,” Alessio Razeto explained (after sailing, obviously!). The North Sails Italy sales manager has been Lacorte’s main sailing representative since SuperNikka . He is also the relief helmsman and flight controller. “We can control everything manually, but have experienced that once the autopilot has learned from the human, it’s way better at flight and elevator control.”

It’s unusual to have the helmsman in front of the crew, but after two seasons struggling to see from the aft of the 69F, Lacorte and Razeto wanted a clear view from the wheel. It’s also prudent as the foil can create a real fire hose effect over the aft cockpit when at surface level.

The forward part of the cockpit is used by the helmsman on the wheel to windward, who becomes the flight controller on the leeward side. On the side deck to hand is a compact bank of switches to manually control height, pitch and trim plus a small wheel for elevation, while foot pedals allow the helmsman to drop or raise the arms to a predefined height.

Hold tight, preparing to tack. Photo: Fabio Taccola

It’s one thing completing a standard two to three hour race, but what about the longer mid-range races?

“Steering is not the hardest part, but doing flight control too on the other tack,” reckons Razeto – it’s a relentless demand for concentration. There’s also a lot of pressure on the single mainsail trimmer, however the six core crew train to be able to manage all roles.

“I’m an endurance driver and I know what it means to manage time,” considers Lacorte. “The auto control helps us a lot, allowing us to focus on steering rather than flying management.”

The mainsail or jib trimmer (depending on tack) takes the slot immediately behind the helmsman. Cunningham trim is particularly important because Flying Nikka uses Helix structural luff sails, with 80% load swallowed by the jib and just 20% on headstay, Razeto tells me. The 3Di Raw 140m2 main takes 7 tonnes of load. “You’re bending the [rotating] mast like runners would be while preventing everything going to the verticals.” With no backstays or heeling, the loads are extremely high, “so you are trimming more for load control than [sail] trim, staying inside the safety factors.”

As she tacks, the windward arm drops and the opposite arm is then lifted once through the wind. Photo: Fabio Taccola

Designed for easy flight

If I was expecting warp speeds on the off/downwind leg, it soon became apparent that Nikka lacked the extra grunt of a larger headsail in these fluky conditions. Yet even training with their smaller J2 we hit the high 20s – still at 25-30° apparent, but at 120° true as opposed to 50° true upwind – but there were many more landings and longer struggles to lift off again.

I began to see why Lacorte referred to protecting the lead in a race. If the wind drops below 9 knots Nikka could haemorrhage valuable miles and angles in displacement mode by sailing at reaching angles to try to get foiling again.

Although Flying Nikka uses similar articulating foil technology to the Cup boats to lift one arm clear of the water, “the entire wing angle of attack changing when you want to add or decrease lift is a completely different solution to the fixed wing solution of the AC75s, which have trailing edge flaps,” Mills explains. Photo: Fabio Taccola

“It’s not true that it’s easy to win a race with a foiling boat, you have to be able to defend what you can do in a boat like this,” reasons Lacorte. “Sometimes we will be sailing in displacement mode and in that condition we have to protect what we do when flying.”

In reality, Flying Nikka will never be slow. Key to its design parameters, this is a super light build (only slightly more displacement than a TP52 ) so maintains slippery speeds even in displacement mode. After foiling though, it just feels comparatively like you’re parked.

Mills confirms that a non-foiling Nikka lies somewhere between a TP52 and a Maxi 72. The sail inventory currently includes a Code 0 and a reaching sail for displacement mode, set off a tack strop on the bow. The team is also considering a gennaker, but the jury is out on whether soft sails will ever be needed on this apparent wind machine. How to get rid of aero drag when foiling is the prime consideration.

Within seconds we were making 20 knots upwind. Photo: Fabio Taccola

Potent potential

“We thought 20 knots of wind would be scary, but we had two days trialling in 23 knots and it was easier,” reckons Razeto. “In more breeze it’s actually easier because you’re sailing with a flat main and small jib.”

Flying Nikka ’s top speed to date is 37 knots, but that was before initial aeration issues in the wing arm junctions were sorted out. The team thinks over 40 knots is possible, but Mills cautions that soon after that figure they’ll then run into cavitation issues. Nikka has been designed with big wing surfaces for early take offs to suit light winds, but if the programme changes to record breaking, they could look at swapping to smaller foils.

The team’s first regatta was the Maxi Worlds in early September, where they were focussed primarily on safety and performance. Flying Nikka is more or less a 100-footer in terms of performance and handicap, says Razeto. “If we have our wind conditions we could easily beat a 100-footer like Comanche… the boat is designed to fly and break records in real time not to win on handicap.”

Flying Nikka took 30,000 man hours to build yet was completed in less than a year during a pandemic, on time and to budget. Photo: Fabio Taccola

Inside the cave

It is strange not to have any visual connection between the cockpits, which are shut off from each other by a deck sweeper below the boom, however there is a tunnel between the two abaft the mast. The crew expects this will be used more as a dry place to rest from the noise and spray, rather than to cross cockpits.

Hatches give access to the interior, which is, as you would expect, predominantly black carbon fibre, in a mix of ring frames and stringers. On display are the massive titanium rams for the foil arms, while around the bulkheads a network of orange hydraulic hoses run off like veins to feed them with 500bar of oil pressure.

Project manager Micky Costa was confident there’d be no chance the crew would want to live below decks, so there are no pipe cots nor engine insulation. The heavily modified 110hp Yanmar block, selected for its high torque, sits exposed aft, and is designed to keep working at 90° heel. It has a PTO and separate power pump, while an accumulator keeps oil at a certain pressure – a demanding task when you consider the wings can move at four times per second.

An intriguing solution is the water cooling for the engine, which is extracted from the keel so it can keep working during flight. As is the 200lt crashproof fuel tank which uses foam inside to prevent fuel sloshing from one side to the other.

Lacorte and Mills (centre back) and core members. Photo: Fabio Taccola

The right side of crazy

“What do you think? Are we crazy?” mainsail trimmer Enrico Zennaro asked when the sails were dropped and the helmets removed. I contemplated his question as we docked. Devoid of apparent wind the black boat was furnace-like in the late afternoon sun. And when the engine was finally turned off it felt like exiting a music concert, with just a dull ringing noise left in your head.

Having spent a fair amount of my spare time foiling recently, the most enjoyable aspect of it is that initial feeling of silent flight, when you rise above the surface and skim over it with no sound other than an occasional high speed whistle.

So for me, unless they spend a great deal of time and weight on insulation or an alternative power source, Flying Nikka will always have a fundamental downside in that regard: it is by far the loudest vessel I have ever sailed aboard.

To contemplate that discomfort and noise for hours, especially an overnight race, yes, I think you’d need to be a little crazy.

But then when has anyone had any fun or pushed the envelope by staying inside their comfort zone? Any racing driver wants to be faster than everyone else. Once you sample such speed and easy flight, there is simply no going back.

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Bering Yachts introduces new 24m catamaran model BC80 with two configurations

Turkish shipyard Bering Yachts has announced a new 24-metre catamaran model known as BC80 at this year's Cannes Yachting Festival.

The yacht is the largest in its class at 24 metres and is joined by the 18.9-metre BC60 and the BC70, which measures 21.3 metres. Owners can choose between two layouts: the flybridge version and the solar-powered version.

The first has been billed as a "more classic yachting experience", featuring an expansive 82-square-metre flybridge and 1,000 square feet of solar panels which can generate over 20kW of energy on a sunny day. The yacht can then remain at anchor for extended periods without relying on generators.

Meanwhile, the solar-powered version is suited to "the environmentally conscious adventurer", with a massive solar panel array, high-capacity lithium-ion battery bank and a state-of-the-art "kick-saving" system. This system significantly reduces generator dependence and allows guests to enjoy silent cruising for up to 24 hours without running the generators.

The BC80's impressive interior volume is aided by an expansive 10.8-metre beam, giving guests the "ultimate three-decker experience" with a spacious main deck with 2.4 metres of headroom, a dedicated upper deck with flybridge option, and a comfortable lower deck. In terms of accommodation, owners can choose between four, five or six cabins with the option of a master suite on the main deck.

The standard layout features a galley positioned forward on the main deck, while all guest accommodations are located in the sponsons (hull extensions) for extra privacy and reduced noise.

Powered by a pair of Volvo Penta engines, the yacht will reach top speeds of 15 knots and a cruising speed of 10 knots.

This follows the news that the steel hull of its 39.5-metre B125 model had been transported from Istanbul to Antalya ahead of outfitting . Delivery is anticipated for September 2024.

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