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12 Fastest Speed Boats in The World in 2023

Fastest speed boat in the world – Spirit of Australia set the Guinness World Record for achieving a maximum speed on the water of 317.59 MPH. The boat is equipped with a 3000 hp Westinghouse J34 turbojet engine. But there are other incredibly fast boats – learn more about them in this article.

Since the appearance of the first boats equipped with an engine, the question has arisen – how fast can boats be? As a consequence, many people have expressed a desire to compete with their boats to find out which are the fastest. Since then, speed records on the water have skyrocketed.

In this article, we will not focus on the history of the development of speed boats and how speed records were set. Trust me, you could write a whole book about it. We will tell you about the fastest speed boats in the world in 2023, what characteristics they have and what top speeds have been achieved.

Secret of Fastest Boats

Modern speed boats have long crossed the speed limit of 200 MPH. How is it possible to achieve such incredible speeds on the water? The fact is that the density of water is higher than the density of air and the friction force that occurs between the hull of the boat and the water is a serious problem that engineers around the world are trying to solve.

For comparison, the fastest trains in the world achieve incredible speeds thanks to the magnetic cushion. Due to the absence of friction between wheels and rails. But the boat cannot be torn off the water, otherwise it will no longer be a boat but an airplane. The maximum that you can go for is special boats – hydroplanes.

For boats, the solution to achieving super speeds is easier than it sounds. These are jet and turbojet engines mounted on a strong hull that cuts through the water like a razor. The two fastest boats in the world, the Spirit of Australia and the Bluebird K7, have exactly this design. So it’s no surprise that the Guinness World Record for the fastest boat in the world is held by the jet-powered hydroplane Spirit of Australia which reached an estimated speed of 317.59 MPH.

Features of World’s Fastest Boats in 2023

12. outerlimits sv-52, max speed – 100 mph.

Outerlimits power boats are offering a wide range of speed power boats. Their faster boat category includes the SV-50, SV-52, SL-44, SL-52 and even catamarans like the 43CAT and 48CAT. The SV-52 is one of their fastest speed boats. It has been designed especially for superior high-speed performances and is known for its steady ride and soft landing even in rough and choppy waters.

The cockpit boasts of dual helm controls, a standard GPS chart plotter. They even offer both open as well as swim platform models. Most models also have a half cabin for easy storage of extra equipment or much-needed protection from the sun and the sea. At 52 feet, this long beauty is known to easily record 100 MPH plus speeds in even adverse conditions. It has a fuel capacity of 250 gallons and can easily accommodate up to four people in it.

11. South Bay 925CR, max speed – 114 mph

The South Bay 925 CR is unbelievable the worlds’ fastest pontoon. If a pontoon can travel at speeds of more than 110 MPH, its only the South Bay 925 CR. In fact, when Brad Rowland’s South Bay 925 CR recorded a speed of 114 MPH, it was a new world record! It is fitted with superior Garmin GPS navigation. With a length of 27 feet and a beam of 8 feet, it is perfect for someone who doesn’t want a very large speed boat.

The standard equipment found on the South Bay 925CR are Manual Sport Arch, 4-speaker Bluetooth stereo, interior, and exterior LED light. If you are in the mood to create a perfect party ambiance you can even choose to opt for underwater LED lights.

10. Fountain 47 Lightning, max speed – 115 mph

As the name suggests the Fountain 47 Lightning, is definitely lightning fast. The Fountain 47 Lightning is able to go as fast as 115 MPH. It’s decently sized at 47 feet and has a seating capacity of four to six people depending on the model you choose. It owes it’s super-fast speed to the twin Mercury Racing 1,075 HP engines. It is known as the cruiser boat that can go anyplace at any time.

The fuel tank capacity is 340 gallons and it also has a Fuel Vapour Detection system. The standard features on the Fountain 47 Lightning include a Garmin GPS, LED push-button switches on the navigation dashboard, and Vessel view instrumentation. The cockpit is equipped with LED cockpit lights, motorized hatches and bolster seats with electric drop-downmechanism. What more can you ask for?

9. Cigarette Racing Team 50 AMG GTS, max speed – 135 mph

The cigarette racing team’s 50 AMG GTS slim and long cigarette shaped 50 AMG GTS is an incredibly powerful speedboat. It is considered to be one of the fastest electric speed boats in the world. It is powered by a 2200 HP AMG electric engine which also drives the SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive – the world’s most powerful and fastest electric car. Check out 15 Fastest Cars in the World to find out just how fast cars can be.

This super fast electric speed boat is fitted with a lithium-ion battery containing 3,456 lithium-ion cells. The efficient battery pack can store power at 400 volts offering maximum driving current of about 6,000 amperes. This dashing speedboat has two chargers providing a total charging rate of 44 kW and just takes a meager seven hours for a full charge.

8. Nor-Tech 5200 Roadster, max speed – 150 mph

The Nor-Tech 5200 Roadster is a large boat with seating capacity for up to 10 people. Depending on the type of engine fitted, the 5200 Roadster can clock speeds of over 150 MPH. With a 400-gallon fuel tank, the 5200 Roadster has 5400 HP engines, making it one of the most powerful boats in the water. Along with offering unmatchable speeds, the Roadster is also the ultimate in luxury boating.

It features a padded sun lounge, swimming platform with boarding ladder and also video monitors. The Roadster is also equipped with a state-of-the-art music system and aft facing seats with coolers. Nor-Tech can also offer a wide range of configurations to suit our engine requirements.

7. Skater 46 Pleasure, max speed – 175 mph

The Skater 46 Pleasure is a high speed and power boat. As believed by the company Skater, it is truly the “Rolls Royce of power boats.” The Skater 46 Pleasure is fitted with twin Teague Custom engines of 1500 HP each giving a total power of 3000 HP. The Skater comes with dual fuel tanks with a maximum capacity of 1,000 gallons. It is can easily cruise at more than 100 MPh for long hours and is designed for soft landings in rough waters.

With maximum speeds of approximately 175 MPH, the Skater 46 Pleasure is one of the fastest motor boats available today. Most boats also feature a complete stereo system and air-conditioning. Its spacious design can seat even five people. Its unique design lets you enjoy the speed thrill and also lets you sit back and enjoy the joy-ride.

6. Lamborghini Aventador Super Veloce, max speed – 180 mph

Lamborghini’s Aventador Super Veloce is an incredible 52-ft, custom-built speedboat that runs on a 1550 hp engine and can reach up to an impressive 180 mph. Designed as a companion piece to the carmaker’s Aventador supercar, the boat is decked out in the same lime green (or ‘Verde Singh’) paint job.

The speedboat includes a cockpit that fits six people, outfitted with custom buttons and dials inspired by the car’s interiors, including a “Race” and “Pleasure” key that alternates between the boat’s top speed and a more relaxed pace. More information, photos and video you can find in our article about Lamborghini Aventador Super Veloce .

5. Spirit of Qatar, max speed – 244 mph

This is the fastest catamaran out there and fifth on the all-time speed list. The Spirit of Qatar uses twin Lycoming turbines to make a total of 9,000 Hp allowing this catamaran to reach ludicrous speed of 244 Mph (212 Knots). 50 feet long and full of turbine power, the Spirit of Qatar is a real eye catcher.

4. Mystic Powerboats C5000 Turbine, max speed – 250 mph

The Mystic Powerboats C5000 Turbine is manufactured by Florida based Mystic Powerboats. Powered by two 1850 HP engines it has a total engine power of 3700 HP and can easily reach cruising speeds of 150 MPH. The C5000 is considered to be one of the most powerful speedboats in the world today. The highest recorded speed of the C5000 is 250 MPH. The powerful C5000 beast runs on diesel. With a fuel tank capacity of 600 gallons, it has even recorded 15 engine hours.

The C5000 is almost 50 feet long. It comes equipped with electronic equipment like Log-speedometer, Plotter, Navigation center and GPS. Some of the extra features for enjoying your joy-ride are radio, CD player, and cockpit speakers. It also has a road trailer and launching trailer for ease of movement on land. This super-fast catamaran also offers cockpit air-conditioning. The Mystic Powerboats also offers C4400 and C3800 models.

3. Problem Child, max speed – 262 mph

The Problem Child is the world’s fastest nitro drag boat. Ironically it gets its name due to its super-fast speed capacity. With a super-powerful 8000 HP engine Eddie Knox’s Problem Child is the fastest drag boat in the world. How fast can the fastest boat in the world run? It can reach speeds up to 262 MPH in just 3.5 seconds. Incredible, isn’t it? The Problem Child is the ultimate speed machine on water. This amazing speed monster literally seems to fly over water. With a speed crossing over 250 MPH, this incredibly fast drag boat is known to leave behind a wall of water as it speeds through it.

2. Bluebird K7, max speed – 276 mph

One of the oldest and fastest hydroplanes of the 20th century, the Bluebird K7 is considered to be one of the pioneers in the field of speedboats. Donald Campbell held the records of the fastest water speeds in the 1950s and 1960s in this amazing hydroplane. He set seven-speed records between July 1955 and December 1964. Unbelievably, the Bluebird K7 managed to record 276 MPH way back in 1964. Unfortunately, Campbell lost his life in 1967 while attempting to record a speed of 300 MPH. The wreckage of the Bluebird was recovered between October’2000 and May’2001. Campbell’s daughter has formally gifted the Bluebird’s recovered wreckage to the Ruskin Museum. It is believed that the Bluebird Project is undertaking trials for the return of Bluebird K7 to Scottish waters once again.

1. Spirit of Australia, max speed – 317 mph

Would you believe that the Spirit of Australia which holds the World Record of clocking a speed of 317.6 MPH in was designed and built by Ken Warby in his backyard? The wooden speed boat ran on Westinghouse J34 jet engines which are also used for aircraft and fighter jets. The Spirit of Australia is on permanent display at the Australian National Maritime Museum. Though several people have tried to break Warby’s world water speed record, none have succeeded. Warby also went on to build the Aussie Spirit as a successor to the Spirit of Australia.

With so many awesome speed machines available, it is becoming increasingly easy to indulge in the ultimate adrenaline overdrive by sailing over waters. Cross the 100 MPH mark and enjoy the fastest boats in the world!

I ABSOUTELY LOVE, LOVE, LOVE THESE FRIGGIN HIGH SPEED BOAT DEMONS!!! I JUST CANT GET ENOUGH! KEEP IT COMING…….. MTI, DCB, DONZI, CIGARETTE,SKATER AMONG MANY MANY OTHERS! ROCK MY WORLD OF BOATS!! MY CHAPARRAL WILL DO BOUT 55. It’s a 24′ cuddy. I thought we were killin it. Well mines just as loud!! Hahaha Thanks for the vid. Peace………

I built a 72foot pontoon boat with a Volkswagen beetle 1300cc engine that did well over 300mph… On the salt flats outside our Vegas after a major rain. Do your research fools. Ours called the “turtle slug 1300+” crazy fast boat, especially on a lake!

There is an old Soviet ship called the Caspian Sea Monster that reached a max speed of 404 mph.

That was a plane,,,, it rode on Aa layer of air, not on water!!

There is an old soviet military ship (although it looks like a plane) that cruises at a speed of 220 to 340 mph and reached a max speed of 404 mph. It’s called the Caspian Sea Monster.

What about DCB?

Don’t forget the great Lee Taylor and Hustler. Held the record for 10 years between Blue bird and Spirit

Just letting you know that the images for #1 are actually of Spirit of Australia 2 (SoA2), not Spirit of Australia, the current record holder. SOA2 is a new boat made by the son of Ken Warby, who is aiming for 550km/h.

Y’all missed 2 boats. The Lamborghini aventador speed boat hits 180. And idk what the Corvette speedboat hit but it has 2700 hp.

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7 Fastest Speedboats of 2023

By Emily Duane

If you crave the adrenaline rush of high cruising speeds on the open water, a speedboat is the marine craft for you. According to a variety of boating authorities, the average top speed of a powerboat is 70 miles per hour (mph), with high-performance competition boats well into the 100s. The Guinness World Record holder for the fastest boat in the world is the jet-powered hydroplane Spirit of Australia, which reached an eye-watering speed of approximately 317 mph.

The speed-boat market offers multiple categories of boats designed to go fast, including V-bottom, catamaran and center-console body styles . They’re equipped with two to four motors—inboard or outboard—to provide all that power that pushes the limits on the water.

To find the best new powerboat for you, do some research and compare the specs and features of different brands and models, understanding that different engine packages and other add-ons affect the price. To start you off, here’s a list of the fastest speed boats on the market for 2023.

1. Nor-Tech 390 Sport

The 390 Sport from Nor-Tech easily lets you flirt with 80-mph speeds. This center-console boat offers stability on the water and is comfortable for everything from speedy rides to fishing and diving. The 390 Sport comes with triple or quad Mercury motors. Enthusiasts have topped 100 mph powered by quad Mercury Racing Verado 400R outboards on jack plates.

Style: Center console

Price: Starting at $700,000

Length: 39 feet

Beam: 10 feet

Weight: 12,500 pounds

Top speed: ~80 mph

Nor-Tech 390 Sport Full Specs

2. Baja Marine 36 Outlaw

To achieve high speeds without fully liquefying your insides, Baja Marine’s 36 Outlaw is an excellent option. Whether you’re taking your chances at a poker run , cruising to sand bars or treating friends to wild tubing rides, the Outlaw is here for it. Enthusiasts have hit top speeds of around 84 mph with Mercury Racing 565 engines.

Style: V-bottom

Price: Starting at $307,000

Length: 37 feet, 1 inch

Beam: 8 feet, 6 inches

Weight: 9,300 pounds

Top speed: ~84 mph

Baja Marine 36 Outlaw Full Specs

3. Mystic C4000

The dual-hull Mystic C4000 balances comfort and speed, offering a day of adventure on the water that can effortlessly go from leisurely to thrilling in seconds. Enthusiasts claim this boat is something straight out of a James Bond movie. Easy to drive and powered by just two outboard engines, the C4000 can top 100 mph, making it a shoo-in for offshore racing.

Style: Catamaran

Price: Starting at $785,000

Length: 43 feet, 10 inches

Beam: 10 feet, 11 inches

Weight: 6,800 pounds

Top speed: ~120 mph

Mystic Powerboats C4000 Full Specs

4. Donzi Marine 38 ZRC

Fast, fun and attractive, the Donzi Marine 38 ZRC experienced a revival in 2020 with its unique fighter jet windscreens and a V-bottom hull designed for speed. Buyers can choose between Mercury Racing 565 HP Bravos or staggered 860s with #6 drives to power this model. Enthusiasts have reported exceeding 120 mph in this powerboat.

Price: Starting at $560,000

Length: 38 feet, 1 inch

Beam: 8 feet, 1 inch

Weight: 11,500 pounds

Donzi Marine 38 ZRC Full Specs

5. Outerlimits SV-50

If you’re looking for the marine equivalent of a race car, the Outerlimits SV-50 is the ticket. This sleek and luxurious powerboat has room for up to five passengers and is designed for speedy thrills on the open water. Powered with Mercury Racing 1350/1100 engines, the SV-50 hit a top speed of 145 mph during a test ride in early 2023 on a mid-30-degree day in Rhode Island’s Narragansett Bay.

Price: Starting at $1.5 million

Length: 50 feet, 1 inch

Beam: 9 feet

Weight: 10,900 pounds

Top speed: ~145 mph

Outerlimits SV-50 Full Specs

6. Fountain Powerboats 42 Lightning

If you’re looking for a powerboat that offers a smooth yet forceful push to top speeds and a comfortable and stable ride once you’re there, you’ll get it in Fountain’s 42 Lightning. It goes from 0 to 30 mph in 9.5 seconds, and the only limit to top speeds is your nerve—this boat can hit 160 mph with 1,350/1,550 packages.

Price: Starting at $685,000

Length: 42 feet

Beam: 8 feet, 4 inches

Weight: 13,400 pounds

Top speed: 160+ mph

Fountain Powerboats 42 Lightning Full Specs

7. Eliminator 28 Speedster

With a name that includes the words “eliminator” and “speedster,” it should be no surprise that this catamaran zips to the top of this list with max speeds of 170 mph. Available with inboard and outboard options and a variety of deck and bow configurations, the Eliminator 28 Speedster can be customized for however you want to spend your time on the water.

Price: Starting at $300,000

Length: 28 feet, 10 inches

Weight: 4,000 pounds

Top speed: ~170 mph

Eliminator 28 Speedster Full Specs

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15 Fastest Boats In The World | 2023 Edition

What are the world’s fastest boats? Keeping track of the world’s fastest cars is easier; when it comes to boats, things get a little more tricky. Various vessels travel on the water, varying in size, shape, and how they move. Humans have been concerned with speed since the invention of the wheel.

Also, people’s need for speed and excitement has led to the creation of speed boats that can go so fast that they almost sear the waterbed. The twenty-first century has created some of the world’s fastest boats. Most modern speed boats can reach a speed of up to 100 miles per hour, with some exceeding 170 miles per hour. Continue reading the article to learn about the 15 fastest boats in the world as of 2023. With further ado, let’s begin.

Lamborghini 63 – 69 MPH

The yacht “Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63” is more than just an exercise in style and design; she also represents cutting-edge luxury speed boats. The Lamborghini 63 yacht’s advertised top speed is 60 knots, which equates to an impressive 69 miles per hour .

In the world of yachts, this is a fast boat. At cruising speed, it consumes about 100 gallons of fuel per hour, giving it a range of about 360 nautical miles.

Vestas Sailrocket 2 – 70 MPH

The Vestas Sailrocket 2, designed by Paul Larsen, is one of the most extraordinary and fascinating boats, setting a new world speed record of 70 mph in 2012.

The empty weight of the Vestas Sailrocket 2 is 275 kg. It measures 12.2 m long and 12.2 m wide, with a total wing area of 22 m2. The Vestas Sailrocket was made to break the B-class’s speed record for sails between 150 and 235 square feet.

HMCS Bras d’Or – 72 MPH

HMCS Bras d’Or (FHE 400) is a Canadian hydrofoil that served the military from 1968 to 1971. During sea trials in 1969, the ship exceeded 72 mph , making it the world’s fastest unarmed warship.

From 1960 to 1967, the vessel was built for the Royal Canadian Navy as part of a project to test anti-submarine warfare technology on an ocean-going hydrofoil.

Outerlimits SV-52 – 100 MPH

Outerlimits Power Boats has a large selection of high-speed power boats. The SV-50, SV-52, SL-44, SL-52, and even catamarans like the 43CAT and 48CAT are among their fastest boats. One of their quickest speedboats is the SV-52.

It was made to work well at high speeds and is known for its smooth ride and soft landings, even in rough and choppy waves. The cockpit features twin helm controls and a typical GPS chart plotter. Most models also have a half-cabin where you can store extra gear or get much-needed shade from the sun and sea.

This 52-foot-long beauty can reach over 100 mph in even the most severe conditions. It has a fuel capacity of 250 gallons and can comfortably seat up to four people.

South Bay 925CR – 114 MPH

The South Bay 925 CR is the fastest pontoon in the world. Brad Rowland’s South Bay 925 CR set a new world record with a speed of 114 mph.

It includes superior Garmin GPS navigation. Its length of 27 feet and beam of 8 feet make it ideal for someone who does not require a large speed boat.

The South Bay 925CR comes standard with a Manual Sport Arch, a 4-speaker Bluetooth stereo, and interior and exterior LED lighting. If you want to create the perfect party atmosphere, you can even use underwater LED lights.

Fountain 47 Lightning – 115 MPH

The Fountain 47 Lightning, as its name suggests, is speedy. The Fountain 47 Lightning has a top speed of 115 miles per hour . Its size is 47 feet, and it can seat up to four people. Its incredible speed is due to the twin Mercury Racing 1,075 HP engines.

The fuel tank has a capacity of 340 gallons and a Fuel Vapour Detection system. The Fountain 47 Lightning comes with a Garmin GPS, LED push-button switches on the navigation dashboard, and Vessel View instrumentation.

Cigarette Racing Team 50 AMG GTS – 135 MPH

The cigarette-shaped 50 AMG GTS is regarded as one of the world’s fastest electric speedboats. It is powered by a 2200 HP AMG electric engine, which also powers the world’s most powerful and fastest electric car, the SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive.

This supercharged electric speedboat is powered by a lithium-ion battery with 3,456 lithium-ion cells. The powerful battery pack can store power at 400 volts and provide a maximum driving current of around 6,000 amps.

This daring speedboat has two chargers with a total charging rate of 44 kW, a full charge that takes only seven hours, and a top speed of 135 mph .

The Nor-Tech 5200 Roadster – 150 MPH

The Nor-Tech 5200 Roadster is a huge boat that can accommodate up to ten people. The 5200 Roadster may reach speeds above 150 mph . The 5200 Roadster features 5400 HP engines and a 400-gallon fuel tank, making it one of the most potent boats on the water. In addition to its unrivaled speed, the Roadster is the pinnacle of luxury boating.

A comfortable sun couch, a swimming platform with a boarding ladder, and video monitors are included. The Roadster also has a cutting-edge sound system and aft-facing seats with coolers. Nor-Tech can also provide a variety of combinations to meet our engine specifications.

Mystic Powerboats C5000 Turbine – 160 MPH

Mystic Powerboats of Florida manufactured the Mystic Powerboats C5000 turbine. Powered by two 1850 HP engines, it has a total engine power of 1850 HP and can achieve 160 mph with ease. The C5000 is believed to be one of the world’s most powerful speedboats.

The C5000 is more than 51 feet long and has technology like a GPS, plotter, navigation center, and log speedometer. The radio, CD player, and cockpit speakers are a few more features that will make your trip more fun. This ultra-quick catamaran also features cockpit air conditioning.

Skater 46 Pleasure – 165 MPH

Skater 46 Pleasure is a fast and powerful boat. The Skater 46 Pleasure has two Teague Custom 1500 HP engines. The Skater has dual fuel tanks with a full capacity of 1,000 gallons. It can easily cruise at over 100 mph for long periods and is made to land smoothly in stormy weather.

The Skater 46 Pleasure is one of the fastest motorboats available today, with top speeds of nearly 165 mph. Its roomy design may accommodate up to five people. Its clever design lets you feel the thrill of speed while still being able to sit back and enjoy the ride.

Lamborghini Aventador Super Veloce – 180 MPH

Lamborghini’s Aventador Super Veloce is a 52-foot custom-built speedboat powered by a 1550-horsepower engine capable of reaching up to 180 mph . The ship’s features include custom LED lighting and carbon fibre accents.

The speedboat has a six-person cockpit with customized buttons and dials that look like car dashboards. For example, the “Race” and “Pleasure” keys switch between the boat’s top speed and easygoing pace.

Spirit Of Qatar – 244 MPH

This vessel is now the world’s fastest catamaran and ranks fifth on the list of fastest boats. The Spirit of Qatar is a catamaran capable of reaching an insanely high speed of 244 miles per hour , thanks to using a pair of Lycoming turbines that together produce 9,000 horsepower (212 knots). The Spirit of Qatar, with its 50-foot length and plenty of turbine power, is a real show-stopper.

Problem Child – 262 MPH

The Problem Child is the fastest nitro drag boat in the world. Its nickname, ironically, comes from its super-fast speed capacity. Eddie Knox’s Problem Child is the world’s fastest drag boat, powered by an 8000 HP motor.

How fast can the world’s fastest boat go? It can reach up to 262 miles per hour in just 3.5 seconds. Isn’t it incredible? 

The Problem Child is the ultimate water-speed machine. This speedy monster appears to fly over water and is known to leave behind a wall of water as it races through the water at speed exceeding 250 mph.

Bluebird K7 – 276 MPH

The Bluebird K7, one of the oldest and fastest hydroplanes of the twentieth century, is regarded as a speedboat pioneer. In this incredible hydroplane, Donald Campbell set records for the fastest water speeds in the 1950s and 1960s. 

Between July 1955 and December 1964, he set seven-speed records. Surprisingly, the Bluebird K7 managed to reach 276 mph in 1964. Unfortunately, Campbell died in 1967 while attempting to set a speed record of 300 mph.

Between October 2000 and May 2001, the Bluebird’s wreckage was recovered. Campbell’s daughter officially presented the recovered wreckage of the Bluebird to the Ruskin Museum. The Bluebird Project is said to be conducting trials to restore the Bluebird K7 to Scottish waters.

Spirit Of Australia – 317 MPH

Would you believe Ken Warby built the Spirit of Australia in his backyard, which holds the world record for the fastest speed of 317.6 miles per hour ?

The wooden speedboat is powered by Westinghouse J34 jet engines, also used in planes and combat jets. The Spirit of Australia is also permanently displayed at the Australian National Maritime Museum.

Many people have tried and failed to break Warby’s world water speed record. However, Warby built the Aussie Spirit as a successor to the Spirit of Australia.

The Bottom Line

We’ve compiled a list of the fifteen fastest boats in the world, ranked by their highest miles per hour. In boats, jet and turbojet engines are mounted on a solid hull that cuts like a razor through the water. Currently, the jet-powered Spirit of Australia holds the Guinness World Record for the fastest boat in the world, clocking in at 317.6 mph.

Of these 15 fastest boats in the world, let us know which one you liked the most.

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Fastest boat: The current holder and contenders for the world water-speed record

Attempting the world water-speed record takes years of preparation, massive amounts of horsepower, a huge budget, some astonishing engineering, the aerodynamics of a fighter jet and cojones the size of Milford Haven. Despite all this there are currently four active contenders for the title of the world’s fastest boat...

What is the world’s fastest boat?

The current title of world’s fastest boat belongs to Spirit of Australia , which recorded a two-way average top speed of 317.6mph (551.1 km/h) on Blowering Dam, NSW in 1978.

Piloted by the late great Ken Warby, this homebuilt wooden speed machine was the first boat to break the 300mph and 500km/h barriers.

Warby, who passed away in early 2023, was the first Australian to hold a world speed record and the first person to design, build and pilot a water speed record boat.

Who is trying to break the fastest boat record?

Quicksilver.

Nigel Macknight is both the driving force and the driver of Quicksilver , Britain’s long-standing-challenger for the title of world’s fastest boat.

But despite having worked on the project for the best part of 30 years and surrounding himself with experts from previous land and water-speed record attempts, the team is still some way off staging an attempt on the record itself.

Working with Ken Norris (chief designer of Donald Campbell’s Bluebird K7 , which set the water-speed record in 1964) construction of the craft’s steel spaceframe chassis was completed in 2002 and the team installed and fired up a 25,000hp Rolls-Royce Spey jet engine.

Article continues below…

World’s largest superyacht: Everything you need to know about 183m REV

How donald campbell broke both land and waterspeed records in the same year.

However, neither the bodywork nor the complex control systems were finalised and the first iteration of the design was shelved following wind tunnel testing that suggested major stability issues.

Since then the team has gone through two further designs before landing on the current twin-cockpit version (pictured above). Concept 4, as it is currently known, sees the engine mounted towards the front of the central hull.

The 25,000hp Rolls-Royce Spey jet engine has since been replaced by a 10,000hp Mk 101 version from a Hawker Siddeley Buccaneer bomber.

This will be mounted into an all-new hull that is being built from kevlar and Baltek, a highly-engineered balsawood material produced by 3A Composites SA of Switzerland.

Once complete, this will be coated in a thin layer of fibreglass before being mounted to the pre-existing steel spaceframe.

Ken Norris is no longer chief designer, but his ideas are being taken forward by Ron Ayers, Lorne Campbell, Mike Green and Roland Snell.

The Quicksilver team say that they will reuse almost all of the hardware acquired for previous iterations of the design, thus speeding up the construction process, but no launch date has yet been set.

Find out more on the official Quicksilver water-speed record website .

Spirit of Australia II

Of the four teams currently challenging for the title of world’s fastest boat, team Warby is the only one to have a working boat.

Spirit of Australia II is an updated version of the hydroplane design Ken used to set the original record in 1978, with better aerodynamics and a 9,000hp Westinghouse J-34 jet engine.

It hit the water in December 2004 and in 2007 Ken handed over the reins to his son David, who hit 314kmh (218mph) on a testing run on Blowering Lake in 2018. However, floating debris caused damage to one of the fins and in the subsequent years, the tailplane has also been replaced as well as the engines, which are now Bristol Siddeley Orpheus units.

“The old boat was never flat out even when I broke the record last time, so the new one will go a whole lot faster,” Warby Sr claims. “The driving is the easy bit. You just sit in it and put your foot down. The trouble is that you’ve only got a 50/50 chance of still being alive at the other end.”

Spirit of Australia II’s most recent test run in November 2022 was hampered by crosswinds. Further speed runs were due to take place in February 2023, before the news of Ken’s passing. It’s not yet clear how this will affect the project, but further delays seem likely.

Find out more on the official Warby Motorsport website .

Photo: facebook.com/jethydroplaneuk

Another British challenger, Jet Hydroplane UK is headed up by David Aldred, who supplied the Orpheus engines for K777 , an experimental Bluebird K7 replica that was launched in 2011 and was retired in 2014.

His new project, Longbow is powered by twin Rolls Royce Viper turbojet engines and will be piloted by David-John Gibbs, a Formula 4 powerboat racer and flight examiner at RAF Cranwell.

Far from being threatened by this challenge, David Warby offered his technical support to the Longbow project.

In the latest update on the Jet Hydroplane UK website, Aldred revealed that the jet engine cradle is currently being fitted.

Find out more on the official Jet Hydroplane UK website .

Construction of Dartagnan SP600 was completed in October 2016 Photo: Facebook.com/DartagnanSp600

Dartagnan SP600

As if this wasn’t enough, there is a fourth project vying to become the world’s fastest boat. Dartagnan SP600 was built by Belgian offshore racer Daniel Dehaemers, who passed away in June 2018.

The project is reportedly due to be revived by his former teammates, so watch this space…

Find out more on Dartagnan SP600’s official Facebook page .

Best Riva boats: 10 stunning boats from the famous Italian builder

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• Motor Boating
• What’S The Fastest Power Boat In The World?

What’s the Fastest Power Boat in the World?

Robertsf2012 / CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)

Across many walks of life, human beings are obsessed with speed. Some people love the thrill of watching motor vehicle racing. Others try to max out their speed on a bicycle. Still others prefer watching the Olympic games, witnessing races on foot and in a variety of other sports.

But for those of us who love being on the water, there’s nothing better than a super-fast power boat.

Power boats have been around as early as the internal combustion engine, which rose to prominence in the 19th Century. But as you can imagine, countless innovations have transformed not only how power boats look and function, but also how fast they can go when unimpeded.

Whether you’re in the market for a new power boat of your own, hoping to reach new speeds on the water, or are just fascinated by the thrill of seeking speed on open ocean, you’ll want to know: what’s the fastest power boat in the world?

How Fast Is Normal?

First, let’s establish a metric for how fast a “normal” boat can go. Top cruising speed for a yacht is something like 21 to 23 knots, or around 24 to 26 mph, while most yachts go much slower when actually “cruising.” If you look at some of the most powerful and popular power boats available to the public today, many of them can achieve a top speed close to, or even exceeding 100 mph—four times as fast as top cruising speed for a yacht—but even that speed pales in comparison to what some of the fastest power boats in the world have been able to achieve.

The Spirit of Australia: Fastest Power Boat in the World

The Guinness World Record for the top speed achieved on water is officially 275.97 knots, or over 317 mph, set by a craft called the Spirit of Australia back on October 8, 1978. It remains the record to this day, more than 40 years later. The record-setting run was at Blowering Dam Lake, in New South Wales, Australia. On a similar run in November 20, it is claimed that the craft was able to reach a better top speed at the same location, at nearly 345 mph. However, this is considered an “unofficial” speed.

As you might imagine, the Spirit of Australia was specifically engineered to set a water speed record, and was not commercially available for people to use when casually cruising on the ocean. It was designed (and operated) by a man named Ken Warby, who was able to engineer the vessel in his own backward.

The secret to the Spirit of Australia’s power was a set of Westinghouse J34 jet engines, which as the name suggests, were also used for aircraft and fighter jets. Together, they were able to generate 3,000 horsepower. Currently, the Spirit of Australia is retired, on permanent display at the Australian National Maritime Museum.

In the years (and decades) following Warby’s world record, there have been many world record attempts by other boating manufacturers and speed enthusiasts. However, none have been able to break the record set back in 1978.

Other Top Speed Contenders

It’s also worth noting some of the other power boats that have either come close to approaching the Spirit of Australia’s record, or have established a reputation of their own.

Sheppane at English Wikipedia / CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)

For example, there’s the Bluebird K7, one of the oldest pioneers in the history of speedboats. Helmed by Donald Campbell, the Bluebird set 7 separate speed run records between July 1955 and December 1964. Even back in 1964, this vessel was able to set a record by traveling 276 mph on the water. The story has a sad ending, however, as Campbell lost his life while attempting to set an even faster record, at 300 mph, back in 1967. The wreckage of the Bluebird was not recovered until a period between 2000 and 2001. Those remnants are currently preserved at the Ruskin Museum in Northern England.

There’s also the humorously named Problem Child, a more modern power boat that is currently the world’s fastest nitro drag boat. Sporting an incredibly powerful 8,000 horsepower engine, the Problem Child can reach a top speed of 262 mph in a matter of 3.5 seconds—which exceeds the performance of even speed-oriented land vehicles. The Problem Child is widely regarded as the fastest machine on water today, with consistent speeds of more than 250 mph.

Not far behind it is the Mystic Powerboats C5000 Turbine, powered by twin 1850 horsepower engines for a total power of 3,700 HP. Cruising speeds of 150 mph are easy for this boat, but its highest record speed is 250 mph. Even more impressive, the Mystic Powerboats C5000 Turbine can host up to 6 passengers—though it may not be able to reach those record-approaching top speeds with extra passengers on board.

Buying a Power Boat of Your Own

Unfortunately, most of the record-setting vessels in this article aren’t available for purchase; instead, they were designed as individual crafts with a singular purpose. However, there are hundreds of power boats available to quench your thirst for speed on the water—and many of them are capable of reaching speeds close to, or even exceeding 100 mph.

If you’re interested in getting a power boat for speed performance, make sure you get to know the variables that can affect your speed in the open water, including the brand of the manufacturer, the type of engine, the shape of the craft, and the carrying capacity.

Are you interested in getting a super-fast power boat of your own? Check out our selection of power boats and yachts for sale , from dozens of different manufacturers. Buy new or used, from individuals and manufacturers all over the world to find your best possible fit!

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German team targets round-the-world speed record

The world record for the fastest powerboat circumnavigation could be under threat from a new German project backed by the University of Bremen and due to launch in 2020.

Currently known simply as The Fast One, this 24 metre catamaran design by Hendrik Weber is being developed in accordance with Union Internationale Motonautique regulations, meaning that both the Suez Canal and Panama Canal will have to be crossed as part of the record attempt.

Pete Bethune of New Zealand holds the current record of 60 days 23 hours 49 minutes, which was set on board the 24 metre trimaran Earthrace in 2008. However, The Fast One hopes to shave more than 20 days off that record by using a unique hydrofoil arrangement developed by Professor KGW Hoppe, which should allow for cruising speeds in excess of 40 knots in all conditions.

What’s more, advanced scanning equipment will be used to help spot any potential floating debris that could pose an obstacle to such rapid progress. The maximum speed has yet to be disclosed, but The Fast One should be able to give the world’s fastest superyachts a run for their money.

The team behind this highly ambitious project add that the naval architecture could be used in a wide variety of applications, from search and rescue vessels and ferries to high-speed motor yachts measuring up to 48 metres.

The German maritime search and rescue association DGzRS has already lent its support, and commercial sponsors interested in backing this venture are now being encouraged to come forward as the construction stage nears.

Other challengers for the crown of world’s fastest powerboat circumnavigation include Alan Priddy’s Team Britannia , which is currently targeting an October 2018 departure date after more than three years of research and development.

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Electric boats

World record, world top speed record for electric powerboat shattered by university team.

Princeton University’s Electric Speedboat team has set a new world water speed record for an electric-powered boat, reaching an average speed of 114 mph (183 km/h or 99 knots) on Lake Townsend near Greensboro, North Carolina.

The record-smashing attempt was made yesterday on the American Power Boat Association’s sanctioned kilo course, breaking the previous record of 88.61 mph set by Jaguar Vector’s race boat in 2018.

The team, comprising over 30 students and alumn i from Princeton University in New Jersey, embarked on this record-breaking journey with a well-prepared strategy and a robustly designed boat. The team used a 150 kW (200 hp) three-phase AC motor attached to a customized D-Stock hydroplane boat.

Capitalizing on the day’s perfect lake conditions, the team took to the course surrounded by the scenic beauty of fall trees.

John Peeters, a renowned hydroplane driver with numerous records under his belt, was at the helm during the feat. Peeters managed an impressive single direction speed of 111 mph. Without stopping to recharge the boat’s batteries, he then pushed even harder in the opposite direction, reaching a speed of 117 mph. The two speeds were averaged together, resulting in the new world record of 114 mph.

Peeters shared his thoughts after the achievement:

“We came together as a team with a dream. Today the hard work and ingenuity brought this dream into a reality. Rarely can one say, we are the greatest or best, but today we can say – fastest electric boat ever.”

The team’s victory came with its own set of challenges. It was discovered post-race that the only propeller shaft they had on hand was broken during the record run, preventing further attempts that day. Despite this setback, the team is optimistic and already looking ahead. Andrew Yates, Princeton Electric Speedboating’s Chief Technology Officer, revealed that after repairs are made, they aim to reach 120 mph in their next attempt, further pushing the boundaries of electric boat speed records.

Electric boats have seen a number of new records set over the last few years. Vision Marine became the first electric boat t o break 100 mph just over a year ago, though the attempt didn’t include a two direction run and thus didn’t unseat Jaguar Vector’s 2018 title broken yesterday by Princeton’s team.

In the endurance world, Candela recently smashed the 24 hour distance record by covering 420 nautical miles in under a day.

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Micah Toll is a personal electric vehicle enthusiast, battery nerd, and author of the Amazon #1 bestselling books DIY Lithium Batteries , DIY Solar Power,   The Ultimate DIY Ebike Guide  and The Electric Bike Manifesto .

The e-bikes that make up Micah’s current daily drivers are the $999 Lectric XP 2.0 , the $1,095 Ride1Up Roadster V2 , the $1,199 Rad Power Bikes RadMission , and the $3,299 Priority Current . But it’s a pretty evolving list these days.

You can send Micah tips at [email protected], or find him on Twitter , Instagram , or TikTok .

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The Fastest Fighter Jet in History: The NASA X-43

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When it comes to the question of the fastest fighter jet , you can choose to compare only those fighter jets that are still in service, or you can consider every last jet fighter that's ever graced the skies — and we've chosen to go with the latter.

As far as aviation technology goes, fighter jets have long been at the forefront, pushing the boundaries of altitude and performance. Unlike commercial airliners, they emphasize speed and maneuverability, with many of them also having stealth capabilities, the ability to fire air-to-air missiles and other unique features.

Considering just how advanced these military aircraft have to be — a pilot's life usually depends on it — each one is a monumental achievement in engineering, paving the way for future fighter jets to be even faster, more powerful and better equipped. In celebration of this innovative spirit, here are seven of the fastest jets in all of aviation history.

• North American X-15
• Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird
• Bell X-2 Starbuster
• Lockheed YF-12
• Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25 Foxbat
• Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-31 Foxhound

1. NASA X-43

The X-43, an experimental aircraft, holds the distinction of being not only the fastest fighter jet but the fastest aircraft ever built period, having achieved a top speed of Mach 9.6.

As part of a $230 million Hyper-X program, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration ( NASA ) developed the X-43 to explore hypersonic flight . In doing so, the U.S. agency shattered speed records and pushed the limits of aerospace engineering.

Technical Difficulties

Because of the X-43's design, NASA had to release it from a B-52 for it to fly. Once airborne, however, the flights were short-lived .

NASA destroyed the first jet in 2001 when it malfunctioned during a test. In 2004, each of the remaining two jets flew for just 10 seconds (achieving Mach 6.8 and then Mach 9.6, respectively) during test flights, then crashed into the ocean after 10 minutes of gliding.

Technically Disqualified?

Some argue the X-43 doesn't count as a fighter jet, given it was an experimental, unmanned aircraft focused on speed rather than dogfighting.

However, given the project's federal backing and the military implications of what it achieved, others consider this supersonic aircraft to be the fastest fighter jet of all time.

2. North American X-15

The X-15, a joint project between NASA and the United States Air Force (USAF), was another groundbreaking aircraft in the pursuit of speed and a predecessor to the X-43. Capable of reaching speeds over Mach 6, the rocket-powered jet was in development during the 1950s and '60s.

Fastest Flight in a Manned Aircraft

Like the X-43, the X-15 had to hitch a ride into the sky on a B-52, but unlike the X-43, it was a manned aircraft. In 1967, pilot Pete Knight made history by flying Mach 6.72, or 6.72 times the speed of sound, in the X-15, marking the fastest flight in a manned aircraft ever recorded.

An Honorable Retirement

The high-speed aircraft underwent 199 test flights before NASA and the USAF retired the X-15 in 1968 . A famous USAF photo from the 1960s shows an X-15 flying over Edwards Air Force Base during a supersonic flight.

3. Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird

No discussion of fast fighter jets would be complete without mentioning the legendary SR-71 Blackbird.

Developed during the Cold War era, this reconnaissance aircraft boasted a top speed of Mach 3.30 at more than 16 miles (85,000 feet or 25,908 meters) above the earth. Because of the danger of a sudden loss in cabin pressure, the Blackbird's crew members wore pressure suits similar to astronaut suits.

The U.S. military had needed a fighter jet that could out-maneuver interceptors and other surface-to-air missile systems, and in the Blackbird the USAF found the speed it was looking for.

The aircraft's sleek, all-black profile and unmatched speed capabilities earned it a reputation as the pinnacle of aerospace technology and a symbol of American air superiority.

4. Bell X-2 Starbuster

In the early days of supersonic flight, the Bell X-2 Starbuster emerged as a pioneering aircraft, leading the way for future jets, including the X-43 and the X-15.

The X-2 was the result of a 1945 collaboration between Bell Aircraft Corporation, the USAF and the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA).

Glory and Tragedy

In 1956, Capt. Milburn G. "Mel" Apt broke the sound barrier when he reached a top speed of Mach 3.20 in the X-2, making him the first person to fly faster than Mach 3.

Unfortunately, after setting this record, the jet went into a tumble. Although Apt jettisoned the escape capsule in which he was riding, he was unable to deploy his parachute before the capsule crashed.

5. Lockheed YF-12

The USAF developed the Lockheed YF-12 as a prototype interceptor in the 1960s because it needed a jet that could fly at a high altitude while also defending military assets from an enemy's supersonic bombers.

Lockheed and the military made three of these aircraft, and at least one of them reached a maximum speed of Mach 3.20 during testing.

Unfortunately, the USAF ultimately ran out of funding for the YF-12 program, instead diverting funds to other needs related to the Vietnam War. Although the U.S. never put this jet fighter into full production, the performance of this impressive aircraft led to the development of other high-speed military aircraft.

The only surviving plane is on display at the National Museum of the USAF in Ohio.

6. Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25 Foxbat

The Soviet Union developed the MiG-25, also known by its NATO code name "Foxbat," during the Cold War . A formidable interceptor aircraft, known for its blistering high speeds, the MiG-25 had a top speed of Mach 2.83 and entered service in 1970.

Enemy Intel

When the Soviet fighter pilot Victor Belenko defected to Japan in 1976, he flew there in a MiG-25. As a result, the U.S. military was able to gain a wealth of information on the Foxbat.

The Soviet Union had designed the fighter jet to counter the threat of high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft and bombers. Equipped with advanced radar systems and four air-to-air missiles, the MiG-25 posed a significant challenge to Western air forces.

A Prolonged Legacy

The Soviet Union stopped producing MiG-25s decades ago, but that didn't stop them from playing a part in subsequent global conflicts. For example, Iraq flew MiG-25 aircraft during the Iran-Iraq War and the Persian Gulf War.

7. Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-31 Foxhound

Building upon the legacy of the MiG-25, the MiG-3, or "Foxhound," emerged as a successor for intercepting and engaging high-speed targets. With a maximum speed of Mach 2.83, this fighter jet first appeared in the skies in 1975, and the Russian air force, called VVS, still uses it.

Featuring a classic fighter jet silhouette, the MiG-31 is a formidable adversary in aerial combat. While a pilot controls the airspeed and altitude, a weapon system officer (WSO) focuses on operating the radar and deploying weapons.

In comparison to the MiG-25, the Foxhound features enhanced radar capabilities and improved avionics, making it able to fly fast with good stability at low altitudes — something its predecessor couldn't do nearly as well.

This article was created in conjunction with AI technology, then was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.

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Fastest animals in the world: Here are the quickest creatures by land, air and sea.

I f you’re an avid nature documentary watcher, you might know that there are creatures out there whose speed will make your head spin. These talented runners can escape their predators and best their prey with lightning-fast speed.

Who would win in the ultimate race, though? It depends where the track is. By land, by sea and by air there are different champions of speed. Here’s your breakdown of the world's fastest animals. 

What is the fastest land animal in the world?

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The cheetah is the fastest land animal. This big cat holds the record for the quickest creature on solid earth. It is lithe and muscular with intractable claws which help provide traction.

How fast is a cheetah?

A cheetah is capable of running as fast as 70 miles per hour . The big cat’s body is quite literally built for speed – with long legs, a long neck and a petite head. They move through space with incredible agility, but can only keep up their speed for a short distance.

So, what’s this about the pronghorn then?

The pronghorn , is the fastest animal on Earth when it comes to longer distances. The ultimate endurance athlete, this American antelope can run at 35 miles per hour for a number of miles, and will boost that speed to 55 miles per hour during a sprint. 

Which is the fastest flying bird?

The peregrine falcon can make mid-air dives at speeds as fast as 200 miles an hour, making it the true winner of the fastest animal title if it is a mere numbers game.

What is the fastest sea animal?

The sailfish . This swimmer can move through water as swiftly as 68 miles an hour.

What are the top 10 fastest animals in the world?

According to Sahas Barve, a Peter Buck Fellow at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, this question is not as straightforward as we would like. 

From a physics point of view, you can't run as fast as you can fly, Barve explains, because of the resistance the ground provides. This is why many of the fastest creatures are airborne. 

Yes, the peregrine falcon is technically the fastest, but its movement is a dive, based on shape and gravity, the speed can't really be classified as 'flying.'

Other fast birds include:

• White-throated needle tails
• Golden Eagles
• Albatrosses
• Common swifts

For the sake of ranking, it is best to separate, as we have above, the fastest land, sea, and air animals. 

What is the slowest creature on earth?

The slowest mammal in the world is the three-toed sloth . Their digestive process works so slow that they evolved to do less in order to expend less energy.

Needless to say, they should sit the race out entirely. 

Just curious for more? We've got you covered

USA TODAY is exploring the questions you and others ask every day. From " What is the smallest animal in the world? " to " What is the most dangerous animal in the world? " to " Do sharks have bones? ", we're striving to find answers to the most common questions you ask every day. Head to our Just Curious section to see what else we can answer for you. 

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fastest animals in the world: Here are the quickest creatures by land, air and sea.