foiling monohull sailboats

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Hydrofoils for Sailboats

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

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

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

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

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

Fluid Dynamics Primer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cruising on Foils

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Persico Fly40, The Foiling Monohull Loaded with America’s Cup Technology

Presented in 2021 by Persico Marine , the Persico Fly40 was designed by Caponnetto Hueber and boasts a unique build team: structural engineering provided by Giovanni Belgrano of Pure and hydraulics by Cariboni, while aerospace-precision construction will be carried out by Persico Marine and its highly specialized team of expert yacht builders. Also involved in the project is Pininfarina , known for its superior design solutions. Engineers and technicians have been studying all the details using the most sophisticated design tools. Safety and one design are two strategic elements of the project: the Persico Fly40 will be equipped with electronic flight control, which will allow all owners to drive the AC75 -derived foiler simply and safely. 

Pininfarina’s entry into the design team is further testimony to the value of the project. Daniele Mazzon, chief transportation and yacht designer of Pininfarina Nautical stated: “ It is of great prestige for us but at the same time a natural consequence to work side by side with Persico on the stylistic definition of the Persico Fly40, a boat whose design will reflect functionality, aerodynamics, and performance. The experience gained with Persico over the years will now reach a new dimension where the highest expression of sailing, performance, and innovation meet.

The continuous search for perfect aerodynamics, which is part of Pininfarina’s DNA, has led us to the creation of a boat that flies on water thanks to the total adherence of the sails to the deck and the more developed structure near the cockpit. We are proud to be part of the Persico Fly40 team and to accompany Marcello Persico together with Caponnetto Hueber in the definition of a new high-performance market segment. ” 

Persico Fly40: the target

The Persico Fly40 is aimed at yacht owners who are interested in taking part in a high-profile regatta circuit at the helm of a one-design monohull foiler that is derived directly from the experience and technology of the AC75s in last America’s Cup. The Persico Fly40 is a “ flying ” one-design monohull with a speed of over 40 knots. Moreover, it offers a project that goes beyond the individual boat: there will be a chance to take immediate advantage of a dedicated regatta circuit, plus assistance at the most prestigious regatta sites provided directly by Persico Marine. For this reason, specific attention has been given to logistics: the boat has been designed to be disassembled and shipped at a low cost, thus facilitating the organization of the international circuit. 

  Marcello Persico, president of Persico Marine , commented: “ I am extremely proud of this project, which will bring Persico’s excellence in the nautical sector everywhere in the world. Therefore, I would like to thank each and everyone who is contributing to the realization of the Persico Fly 40 and the yacht owners who are showing great interest. This revolutionary sail/racer has been developed by a team of excellence, including Caponnetto Hueber for naval architecture and hydrodynamics, New Zealander Steve Wilson for the wing mast and rigging, and the world-leading designer Pininfarina. Our company puts its specialized experience in the production of carbon boats at the disposal of sports-loving clients, by ensuring the highest — never-before-seen — precision in one-design construction through the implementation of Coriolis robot-based lamination technology used for aerospace manufacturing. The Persico Fly40 again raises the bar in the building of sport boats bearing our brand name, which attracts commissions from the most competitive sailing teams in the world .” 

Persico Fly40 performance

The Persico Fly40 has a minimum foiling take-off speed of 7 knots (true wind speed). The crew members will be the owner and four other sailors to control the mainsail and jib, flight control, and tactics. Additionally, the great safety and ergonomics of the crew positions makes it possible to have a guest aboard, at the discretion of the owner and with the approval of the regatta committee. In light wind conditions, the boat’s systems will also allow for piloting with a crew of only four. 

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Figaro BENETEAU 3

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Specifications

The Figaro BENETEAU 3 is the  first production foiling one-design monohull  ever created. It is a distillation of technology and innovation, the result of a collaboration between some of BENETEAU’s  best experts  and the Van Peteghem Lauriot-Prévost (VPLP) office, the architects of the last two boats to win the Vendée Globe.

The prototype has been tested and the production of the boat has been launched. It will enter the  ISO/World Sailing  design category A.

Naval designer :  Van Peteghem – Lauriot Prévost

THE ADVENT OF A NEW STANDARD

MODERNITY, RELIABILITY AND PERFORMANCE

The specifications define the FB3 monohull as being as reliable as its predecessor, the FB2.  It is equipped with foils, a better-performing, ballast-free hull, a more slender and deeper keel, a setback mast and a more extensive, larger sail plan.

Contrary to Imoca 60 foils, the Figaro BENETEAU 3 foils have an inward-facing profile. The way they operate is different. They are versatile foils that create drift reduction and improve the boat’s righting moment, without increasing the movement, which improves the boat’s performance.

Deep, with a straight blade, it creates minimum drag. Supplementary drift reduction is provided by the foils.

Made of foam sandwich, fibreglass and polyester-infused resin, it corresponds with current designs and is ballast-free. 

MAST AND SAIL LAYOUT

Similar to the Imoca 60s, the mast is set back, providing balance under sail. This allows the use of high performance sails and the addition of a bowsprit. Solo sailors will sail with a square-top mainsail, a genoa, and a jib, but also a masthead spinnaker (105 m² (=125 yd²) to gain speed in a light breeze) and a small gennaker.

• Mainsail area: 39.5 m² (420 ft²)
• Jib area: 30.5 m² (323 ft²)
• Large spinnaker area: 105 m² (125 yd²)

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[2023] Hydrofoil Yacht: The Ultimate Guide to Sailing on Foils

• November 1, 2023
• Hydrofoil Basics

Quick Answer: A hydrofoil yacht is a sailboat equipped with wing-like foils that lift the hull out of the water as it gains speed. This reduces drag, increases speed, and provides a smoother ride. Hydrofoil yachts can be retrofitted on both monohull and multihull sailboats, with different types of foils used for stability and control.

Welcome to Hydrofoiling™, where we bring you all the latest and greatest information about hydrofoil boarding. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the world of hydrofoil yachts, exploring their history, configurations, classes, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a curious beginner, this article will provide you with expert advice and insights into the exciting world of hydrofoil yachts.

Table of Contents

Quick answer, quick tips and facts, background: the evolution of hydrofoil yachts, types of hydrofoil yachts, hydrofoil classes: from moths to ac75, hydrofoil yacht brands and models, advantages and disadvantages of hydrofoil yachts.

• Recommended Links
• Reference Links

A hydrofoil yacht is a sailboat equipped with wing-like foils that lift the hull out of the water as it gains speed. This lifting action reduces the wetted area of the hull, minimizing drag and allowing the yacht to achieve higher speeds. Hydrofoil yachts can be retrofitted on both monohull and multihull sailboats, with different types of foils used for stability and control.

Shopping Links: Check out hydrofoil yacht products on Amazon | Shop hydrofoil yacht on Walmart | Etsy hydrofoil yacht products

• Hydrofoil yachts use foils to lift the hull out of the water, reducing drag and increasing speed.
• Different types of foils, such as T foils, C foils, S foils, and L foils, are used for stability and control.
• Hydrofoil yachts can be retrofitted on both monohull and multihull sailboats.
• The International Moth class is one of the most widespread uses of hydrofoils in sailboats.
• Hydrofoil yachts can achieve impressive speeds, with some reaching over 50 knots.

Hydrofoil technology has been around for over a century, with the first patent for a hydrofoil boat filed in 1898 by Italian engineer Enrico Forlanini. Since then, hydrofoil yachts have undergone significant advancements, transforming the sailing experience and pushing the boundaries of speed and performance.

The concept behind hydrofoil yachts is simple yet ingenious. By using wing-like foils mounted under the hull, these yachts can lift themselves out of the water as they gain speed. This lifting action reduces the wetted area of the hull, minimizing drag and allowing the yacht to glide effortlessly through the water.

Hydrofoil yachts come in various configurations, each designed to optimize performance and stability. Let’s explore some of the most common types of hydrofoil yachts:

Monohull Hydrofoil Yachts : Monohull hydrofoil yachts feature a single hull and employ a “ladder” arrangement of hydrofoils. These hydrofoils typically have a dihedral angle of around 50 degrees and are complemented by a stabilizing rudder foil. This configuration provides stability and control, allowing the yacht to sail smoothly on foils.

Multihull Hydrofoil Yachts : Multihull hydrofoil yachts, such as catamarans and trimarans, offer increased stability and performance. These yachts use wider planforms, allowing for greater lift and control. Some multihulls utilize three foils, with two main forward foils providing lift and a horizontal foil on the rudder for additional control.

Hydrofoil Catamarans : Hydrofoil catamarans, also known as foilcats, combine the stability of a catamaran with the speed and efficiency of hydrofoils. These yachts can achieve impressive speeds while maintaining excellent stability, making them popular choices for racing and recreational sailing.

Hydrofoil technology has found its way into various sailing classes, revolutionizing the way we sail. Let’s take a closer look at some of the notable hydrofoil classes:

International Moth : The International Moth class is one of the most widespread uses of hydrofoils in sailboats. These single-handed dinghies feature foiling capabilities, allowing sailors to achieve incredible speeds and maneuverability. The class has seen rapid growth since 2001, with carbon fiber foils and advanced design techniques pushing the boundaries of performance.

Waszp : The Waszp class is similar to the International Moth class but utilizes aluminum foils instead of carbon fiber. This makes the Waszp more accessible to a wider range of sailors while still providing the exhilaration of foiling.

AC75 : The AC75 is a foiling monohull sailboat class used in the 2021 America’s Cup. These impressive yachts can reach speeds of up to 50 knots, showcasing the incredible potential of hydrofoil technology in the world of competitive sailing.

IQFoil : The IQFoil windsurfer class was selected by World Sailing for the 2024 Summer Olympics. These windsurfers feature hydrofoils, allowing athletes to glide above the water and achieve impressive speeds.

IMOCA 60 : Originally designed as non-foiling offshore racers, the IMOCA 60 class has embraced hydrofoil technology. These yachts now feature S-shaped daggerboard foils, providing partial foiling capabilities and enhancing performance in various conditions.

F50 : The F50 sailboat class is used in the SailGP series and is the first sailboat class to break the 50-knot barrier during a race, with a top speed of 52.2 knots. These high-performance catamarans showcase the incredible speed and agility that hydrofoil technology can offer.

Several brands have embraced hydrofoil technology, offering a range of hydrofoil yachts to cater to different sailing preferences. Here are some notable hydrofoil yacht brands and models:

Gunboat : Gunboat is a renowned brand in the world of luxury hydrofoil yachts. Their models, such as the Gunboat 68 and Gunboat 72, combine performance, comfort, and elegance, providing an exceptional sailing experience.

GC32 : The GC32 is a hydrofoil catamaran designed for high-performance racing. This foiling catamaran offers thrilling speeds and precise control, making it a favorite among competitive sailors.

AC72 and AC45f/AC50 : These hydrofoil catamarans were used in the America’s Cup, showcasing the cutting-edge technology and innovation in the world of hydrofoil yachts. These yachts pushed the boundaries of speed and performance, captivating sailing enthusiasts worldwide.

Nacra 17 and Nacra F20 : Nacra is a well-known brand in the world of multihull sailing, and their Nacra 17 and Nacra F20 models feature hydrofoil capabilities. These yachts offer a perfect balance of speed, stability, and maneuverability, making them popular choices for recreational and competitive sailing.

Hydrofoil yachts offer a range of advantages that make them appealing to sailors seeking speed, performance, and an exhilarating sailing experience. However, they also come with some drawbacks. Let’s explore the pros and cons of hydrofoil yachts:

Advantages:

Increased Speed : Hydrofoil yachts can achieve impressive speeds, thanks to reduced drag and increased lift. This allows sailors to cover more distance in less time, making hydrofoil yachts ideal for racing or simply enjoying the thrill of speed on the water.

Smooth Ride : By lifting the hull out of the water, hydrofoil yachts provide a smoother and more comfortable sailing experience. The reduced contact with the water minimizes the impact of waves and chop, resulting in a smoother ride even in rough conditions.

Improved Efficiency : Hydrofoil yachts are more efficient than traditional sailboats, thanks to reduced drag and improved lift. This increased efficiency translates to better performance and reduced energy consumption, making hydrofoil yachts an environmentally friendly choice.

Disadvantages:

Complex Design : Hydrofoil yachts require a more complex design compared to traditional sailboats. The addition of foils and the associated control systems can increase the complexity of the yacht, requiring more maintenance and potentially higher costs.

Learning Curve : Sailing a hydrofoil yacht requires a certain level of skill and experience. The handling and control of a hydrofoil yacht can be more challenging compared to traditional sailboats, requiring sailors to adapt to the unique characteristics of foiling.

Higher Costs : Hydrofoil yachts, especially high-performance models, can come with a higher price tag compared to traditional sailboats. The advanced technology, materials, and design required for hydrofoil yachts contribute to their higher cost.

How fast is the hydrofoil racing yacht?

Hydrofoil racing yachts can achieve impressive speeds, with some models reaching over 50 knots (57.5 mph or 92.6 km/h). The F50 sailboat class, used in the SailGP series, holds the record for the fastest sailboat class, with a top speed of 52.2 knots (60 mph or 97 km/h).

What does a hydrofoil do to a boat?

A hydrofoil lifts the hull of a boat out of the water as it gains speed. This reduces the wetted area of the hull, minimizing drag and allowing the boat to achieve higher speeds. The lifting action of the hydrofoil also provides a smoother ride by reducing the impact of waves and chop.

Read more about “… Hydrofoil Catamaran: The Ultimate Guide to Foiling on Water”

How fast do hydrofoil boats go?

Hydrofoil boats can reach impressive speeds, depending on their design and purpose. Racing hydrofoil yachts can achieve speeds over 50 knots (57.5 mph or 92.6 km/h), while recreational hydrofoil boats can reach speeds of 20-30 knots (23-34.5 mph or 37-55.5 km/h) or more.

Why don’t boats use hydrofoils?

While hydrofoils offer significant advantages in terms of speed and efficiency, they also come with certain limitations. The complex design and higher costs associated with hydrofoils can be prohibitive for some boat owners. Additionally, the handling and control of hydrofoil boats require a certain level of skill and experience, making them less accessible to novice sailors.

Read more about “… Why do boats not use hydrofoils?”

Hydrofoil yachts have revolutionized the sailing experience, offering increased speed, improved efficiency, and a smoother ride. Whether you’re a competitive sailor looking for the thrill of high-speed racing or a recreational sailor seeking a more exhilarating sailing experience, hydrofoil yachts provide an exciting and innovative option.

Recommended Links:

• Hydrofoil History
• Advanced Hydrofoiling Techniques
• Hydrofoil Equipment Reviews
• How Do Hydrofoils Work on Boats? 2023

Reference Links:

• Sailing Hydrofoil – Wikipedia
• Gunboat Official Website
• Nacra Official Website
• SailGP Official Website
• America’s Cup Official Website

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of hydrofoil yachts, it’s time to set sail and experience the thrill of foiling firsthand. Whether you’re racing on the high seas or cruising along the coast, a hydrofoil yacht will take your sailing adventures to new heights. Happy foiling!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on research and personal experience. Hydrofoiling™ is not affiliated with any specific brand or product mentioned in this article. Always consult with experts and follow safety guidelines when engaging in hydrofoil activities.

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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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Foiling and Hydrofoiling: Everything you need to know

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

What is foiling?

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

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

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

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

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

Foiling boats

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

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

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

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

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

Foiling yachts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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New Fully-Foiling Monohull Concept

• By CatSailingNews.com
• Updated: August 28, 2017

The MW680F is a foiling one design sport boat concept thought to fill the space open up between the new foiling creatures and the planning yet floating sport boats.

With a crew of 3, it will be challenging and expected to become a wide appeal to sailors from many skill levels, ages, and genders searching for fun, fast, and exciting sailing.

The boat is expected to start flying at around 8 knots of TWS with an asymmetric Spi / Code 0 type of sail set at the prod. It will also be capable to sail fast in conventional mode with both foils fully retracted thanks to stability provided by wings and an efficient mono-hull shape. This flexibility will be valuable for a gradual warm up on the foiling learning process and more relaxed sail back to dock when required.

Deck has been kept as simple as possible with wings instead of trapezes for easier, more friendly sailing. An important feature and design principle was that when retracted foils are kept inside wings max width to improve safety by minimizing crew exposure to foils. This will allow also to protect foils when docking.

A self-tacking jib was the way to go so crew has more hands available to take care of foils during gibes and tacks. Traveler and backstay were avoided while retractable wings and bowsprit will help ease of transport.

Foil shape configuration is a V type to control ride height as much as possible allowing to reduce required rake adjustment within foiling range, a type of shape which is also more forgiving in chopped sea state. Slight modifications would be expected for a final design as there has been developments since we put have together this concept.

With a slightly curved strut we have maximized extension to leeward improving righting moment while at the same time achieving an easy to use up-down system.

A lifting rudder was best for docking and transport while elevator angle of attack is adjustable for wind range by means of rudder rake as it is usually done.

The keel will be lifting for transport and docking only with a deep bulb centerboard mainly thought to ease righting the boat in the event of capsize by increasing boat positive stability.

Standard rig configuration is a simple swept aft single spreader aluminum mast. While idea is to keep costs down, the use of a carbon mast will be explored along with a rotating configuration as several advantages are achieved such as ease of assembly due to its lighter weight besides of obvious performance gains.

Main is square and of high aspect ratio resembling more to a multihull type of main due to the more similar sailing characteristics that are going to be seen on this boat. Self tacking jib area was maximized as reasonably possible for sooner, faster and a wider foiling range. Best bowsprit sail configuration and area will be further optimized for target boat weight, crew and righting moment.

Construction

Hull and deck will be PVC cored and built in epoxy and E-glass while carbon fiber is used for rudder, foils and other parts where strength and weight saving is mandatory such as wing structural pipes.

Specifications

LOA: 6.8 m Hull Beam: 2.1 m Max. Beam With Racks Out: 3.5 m Max. Beam With Racks Folded: 2.5 m Draft: 0.35-1.55m Displacement: 300 kg Bulb Weight: 60 kg Crew Weight: 210-260kg

Rig and Sail Dimensions:

Upwind Sail Area: 33.2 m² Spinnaker Area: 46 m²

*Via CatSailingNews.com

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Published on February 20th, 2017 | by Editor

Foiling in the Monohull Stream

Published on February 20th, 2017 by Editor -->

Something that seemed ‘out there’ just a few years ago is now making its way firmly into the mainstream. It is also winning yacht races. In the March issue of Seahorse magazine , Gordon Kay has an update on DSS state of the art.

With the monohull world increasingly embracing foils it seems timely to reflect on some of the lessons learnt over the past year and how 2017 and beyond look for the impact of DSS and for the other foil solutions in the 2017 marketplace..

While dramatic footage of semi-flying or flying yachts gets the headlines it is the background story that is perhaps more significant. In 15 years of developing, engineering and supplying DSS foils and installing them on various yachts we have never had a failure beyond the cracking of one foil, quickly identified as a failure by the builder to build the hull exit bearing surface as drawn. It is therefore quite thought-provoking to see the failure level in some other avenues of foil development.

The problems suffered by the Imoca class, particularly in testing, have been significant, not limited to foils in the water but to the windward foil as well (echoing issues the big tris experienced when ‘over-stiff’ ama construction led to failures through wave impact on the windward float).

(There have also, in passing, been a great many – unpublicised – foil failures during testing for this year’s 35th America’s Cup. However, this is a different situation where lightweight constructions are consciously being explored and tested to the ultimate limit. Still, it does confirm that this is a complex area of development when the best engineers and designers in yacht racing still have to place more than a little reliance upon good old trial and error.)

Safety and reliability have always been the watchwords in our development of foils at DSS. If it was not going to work reliably or safely then we could not see the point of investing heavily in R&D and practical testing. It will not always be possible to get a client to write endless cheques to cover ‘development’, or if it is then the class will go the way of the Orma 60s and others.

So we stand at a key point in the development of foils within the industry; it is no longer the preserve of the lunatic fringe, and it is crucial that future development needs to prioritise safety and reliability.

Modern history 2016 began with the Welbourn-designed DSS Quant 23 winning its division in the European Yacht of the Year awards. The first fully flying keelboat for production, and designed to be very much the everyman design that would allow a new generation, young and less young, to fly in safety and without the need to swim if it all went wrong.

Hugh Welbourn’s flying scow, the Quant 23, uses a curved foil to achieve essentially the same lift effect as is enjoyed on the Infiniti 46 with its straight DSS foils. However, in the case of the Quant the result is full flight in just 8-10kt of breeze. Compared with the Imocas, the Quant benefits from a keel fin to resist leeway, dispensing with the Imoca’s large foil tips. But the similarities, especially between the little foiler and Hugo Boss, are evident. Yet there is still a huge amount to learn, particularly in solving the Imoca puzzle with its rule constraints. Hugo Boss’s 24-hour record was, ultimately, only 2nm better than François Gabart managed four years ago without any foils at all…

To date 10 Quant 23s have been sold, and with the original Q23 now on Lake Garda and available for all to try, more and more people have seen what is available without spending a king’s ransom and requiring America’s Cup levels of skill.

The launch of the Infiniti 46 offshore racer, again Welbourn designed, caused a few raised eyebrows and comments when she first arrived in Europe in May, particularly with respect to the ability of such a boat to sail to its IRC rating.

Class wins and podiums in the Rolex Middle Sea Race and then the RORC Transatlantic Race, all with a Corinthian crew, demonstrate that perhaps the rating office might have been closer to the mark than the armchair experts.

What has been more interesting has been the amount learnt in the 10,000 miles of sailing in 2016 that the first Infiniti 46 has now completed. Zero structural failures, zero foil issues, zero issues with foil exits and, interestingly, zero UFO strikes…

We have always built our foils with Dom Pedron of Isotop and to date they have all been engineered by either Gurit or Will Brooks and, so far, they have all performed to expectation.

An interesting fact taken from the Infiniti 46 is that while the displacement of the yacht is 5,500kg, the foil exits are engineered for 9,500kg of load. Conservative? Probably, but avoiding failure as far as one can through a little extra diligence just seems smarter than saving a gram or two, with the consequential risks, as seen with some of the failures in the Imoca 60 fleet.

Another interesting launch was the prototype FLO1 from Aeronamics. A dinghy that flies but is not a Moth, and as with the Q23 is designed to introduce the averagely capably sailor to an easier and safer flying experience.

As 2016 drew to a close two larger projects emerged. First the CQS, Ludde Ingvall’s inspired reincarnation of his previous yacht, expertly handled by Brett Bakewell-White and launched a few weeks before the Rolex Sydney Hobart Race – making it to the startline against all the odds. That process was bittersweet for us, as the DSS foil itself, built in Vietnam, failed early in the race, having shown glimpses of the performances we have come to expect; with just a few days of sailing with the foil prior to the race there is much to learn. 2017 will no doubt be an interesting year of development for this team, with an all-new boat also in the air…

Finally, we completed our collaboration with Farr Yacht Design on the creation of a new 40m+ fast-cruiser that is now under construction. The process of due diligence took over six months with exhaustive studies of various foil geometries – necessarily in conjunction with different interior layouts. Details are still under wraps but we expect this yacht to demonstrate the same strong performance relative to its conventional peers as the Infiniti 46.

In terms of market appeal, according to our clients not everyone prefers the final designs from a previous generation.

And ratings… The rating story persisted throughout 2016 and into 2017, which will also see updated ratings for retrofits such as the Reichel-Pugh 60 Wild Joe. Faced with the challenge of a single-figure rating for allcomers, IRC have given a great deal of thought to how best to address DSS when rating the boats. Clearly, when executed intelligently, like most yacht designs, these boats can sail to their rating; what has been identified as undesirable is fitting foils that are not particularly effective or have a limited range and then asking IRC or ORC for a rating credit to ‘help’.

There are no rating credits for poorly designed rudders or keels so the same should apply to the foils and how they make up the overall balance and performance of a yacht.

We have conducted many studies internally and with both Farr Yacht Design and Brett Bakewell-White, plus comparison routeings with navigator Ian Moore, and while there is no silver bullet it is clear you can no longer dismiss DSS when you are considering an offshore/coastal programme, be it ORC or IRC focused.

We continue to work closely with the rating authorities, with both poacher and gamekeeper reasonable bedfellows as we look to provide confidence for owners who wish to move forward, while the rating managers ensure that their current fleets remain competitive… (Strangely the best sailed and prepared boats still seem to do well regardless of configuration).

2017 will bring more DSS ratings to the fore and so more performance data with which to validate the rating numbers.

Imoca 60s Bittersweet also best describes our experience within this class so far and this is where a history lesson is perhaps appropriate. In 2008 Hugh Welbourn and DSS were approached by Alex Thomson Racing to look at the possibility of collaborating with Finot-Conq in incorporating DSS into a new design for the next Vendée cycle. The base boat was not suitable so we declined; an opportunity missed.

Vendée Globe yacht design… in a nutshell. Five of the latest-generation Imoca 60s, including Banque Populaire (left), were committed to similar VPLP/Verdier designs when Alex Thomson (shrewdly) pressed the button with the sixth… Hugo Boss (right). Thomson’s boat used a simpler, more DSS style of horizontal foil than her foiled rivals; but as significant is that with extra dynamic righting moment his team ‘risked’ a slightly narrower hull – which contributed to some devastating pace downwind and in light air. Thomson powered away from the fleet on the opening leg, at times sailing 2-3kt faster

However, work on other Open 60 proposals led us towards slimmer, lighter design concepts using DSS as the starting point, which in hindsight may well have turned a well-established fleet on its head. At the same time we opened discussions with the Imoca class, and eventually DSS did end up being accepted… but with an expensive sting in the tail.

A single transverse ‘traditional’ DSS foil would be counted by Imoca as two of five allowable moveable appendages; assuming a traditional wide hull requiring twinrudders, plus canting keel, then any foil solution would now need to deliver dynamic lift and increased righting moment (RM) plus enough sideforce to resist leeway.

In the end a complex hybrid solution with an assortment of vertical tips became the norm for the most recent VPLP/Verdier designs, but these brought into focus the risks – and costs – of introducing complex angled sections into highly loaded composite boards (a pair of typical Dali foils will set you back €300,000–350,000 plus).

Effectively then, these boats had put their eggs very much in one basket – side force and RM all combined in one item, with the failure risk increased with the tip additions. Hit something with a relatively straight, flattish foil and the shock loads fore-and-aft can be designed for… hit something just with one of those long tips and suddenly you are also dealing with torque loads on the inner foil and cassette that are much harder to resolve accurately.

Not surprisingly, the phonecall came in from ATR early in 2014. One of their in-house technicians had been working with Infiniti Yachts on a 30m project for Danish Yachts before joining ATR and had had plenty of sea time on the Infiniti 36 and our 27ft test boat and so was well informed as to DSS and its potential.

‘What are your thoughts on a DSS-type 60 to the current Imoca rules…’ So Hugh ran some comparisons which demonstrated that, executed properly, significant gains could be made over both the existing fleet and the new designs we were then aware of. Hugh and Will Brooks developed several design options, which to our eye looked normal but in the context of superwide Imoca 60 world the boats did look quite radical! We then provided ATR with some basic lines and a couple of appendage configurations which went into the Qinetiq tank for evaluation; soon afterwards we learned that ATR had opted to sign an agreement with VPLP for their new boat.

However, the story did not quite end there. ATR asked: ‘Would we collaborate with VPLP?’

So we arranged to take VPLP sailing and ATR chartered the first Infiniti 36 for a number of months. We arranged further tests with the ATR team on DSS boats and generally headed in the right direction. Sadly, while all was well during the sailing trials, back on land matters of exclusivity between DSS and ATR started to creep in and ultimately the working relationship ended. However, the information and thoughts that we had already shared could hardly be unlearnt, but clearly we had done enough to convince them that foils were the way forward.

If nothing else, even with some of the starboard foil broken off, Hugo Boss did at least prove to be the fastest Imoca 60 in the Vendée Globe. Encouragingly for us, the boat that Alex took around the world was also indeed narrower and lighter than the similar but not identical new boats of his French rivals, moving closer to the design tested at Qinetiq.

The Vendée design directions are very clear – the race is usually decided on the run down the Atlantic and being first boat into the Southern Ocean systems. Ice limits then corral the boats into narrow strategic options riding the weather systems around the bottom, and finally around the Horn after which it is a case of protecting your position – far from easy when passing through the Doldrums and dealing with the complex weather on this final stage of the course. So the slimmer, lighter, more easily driven option scores heavily here on the Vendée course matrix – add in the pace from fully utilising foils in the design and it’s a no-brainer. Or at least it should be.

Whether through lack of insight and/or just a lack of confidence in a new technology, or simply timing, the other five new Imoca 60s all featured ‘standard’ fatter hulls with added Dali foils of varying configurations, that could revert to standard configuration if the experiment failed.

Although they are quicker than the previous non-foil generation, the speed of the slightly slimmer Hugo Boss implies that five very expensive recently built yachts may already be past their prime. It would also have been interesting to see PRB’s time without her own keel problems.

The technical conclusion seemed clear. With two foils Hugo Boss was demon – strably quicker than any other yacht in the class; in particular the undesirable ‘crashing and about to crash’ operating mode of the Dali is softened, with a DSS-style foil plus narrower hull making for higher sustainable average speeds.

As the 2016/2017 Vendée Globe reached its conclusion it was interesting to read in Seahorse that some Imoca designers are already thinking about the next generation of narrower designs, something we have been doing for some years.

Nor, it seems, has the DSS effect been lost on the wider market as we already have interest in new designs to move the game forward again in the Imoca class.

Anything but DSS? As we move from the lunatic fringe into the mainstream DSS is increasingly being accepted. We have technical partnerships, licensing agreements and design arrangements with companies building boats from 4.5m to 40m plus. Farr Yacht Design, McConaghy Boats, Seair, Mer Forte, Bertrand Design, Infiniti Yachts, Quant Boats, Brett Bakewell-White, Aeronamics, Baltic Yachts and a few others we cannot talk about are proving the appeal of DSS across a wide spectrum.

The price of the DSS licence fee is oft discussed but we feel it is fair, particularly when one considers it is a one-off cost that equates to a couple of sails. For an Imoca 60 at the time we were in discussions the licence was €50,000. The cost for one set of Dali foils was, as mentioned, up to €350,000, then you break a few, develop a few and before long it is almost real money. The complete package for the DSS retrofit of the 60ft Wild Joe, including all costs is significantly less than half that of one set of Dali foils… in a new build it would be even less.

Does DSS really work? DSS foils have been proving themselves for some years now and continue to do so. Whether you want an IRC pocket rocket, a gentleman’s daysailer or a fully flying keelboat DSS has delivered, first time, out of the box, without a failure – not very exciting, but sometimes boring is good.

Inevitably ‘not invented here’ is something we have to address from time to time. Indeed, one client was advised by a leading firm of naval architects that fitting DSS would make his yacht unsafe – his question to us was, ‘hy did they say this?’

Our reply was that perhaps they did not want to lose him as a client. ‘Well, they lost me as a client,’ he replied.

In an industry where we are struggling to bring new people to the sport, and often struggling to retain even the people who already love the sport, how can we continue to take risks with the goodwill of the very people we rely on for an industry, the client? We need to tread carefully to bring a new generation to the world of foilassisted sailing.

But there are some worrying ‘foil developments’ being looked at elsewhere that may harm this gradual softening of resistance. Ever more complex arrangements – or proposed arrangements – have been sighted that can only ever be more expensive and less reliable in use. None of us needs to see things go backwards for the sake of costly efforts to reinvent the wheel. Failure always attracts more coverage than success. We all need to be mindful of that.

2017 New DSS projects for 2017 include more work in the fast cruising market in partnership with Farr Yacht Design for the Infiniti 50, 56 and 85 designs. The further adoption of DSS by Farr for their new 42m makes an ever more compelling case for DSS in this sector, where comfort and performance are the primary drivers but not traditionally the most comfortable of bedfellows. Less pitching, less heeling, more performance and shorter passage times are all high on every owner’s wish list.

We continue to work on DSS projects from 4m to 40m-plus whether flying or just cruising faster. Not all projects can be listed here sadly; however, they are all challenging and rewarding in equal measure.

Seahorse is the dominant international magazine for anyone serious about their racing. Take advantage of their subscription offer or order a single copy of Seahorse online at www.seahorse.co.uk/shop or for iPad download the Seahorse App at the iTunes store. Contact by email at [email protected] .

Tags: DSS , foiling , Seahorse

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Four fleet races. Four high-octane spectacles. Proof beyond doubt that foiling monohulls are changing the perception of the sport of sailing with the pure, one-design AC40s providing the ultimate tactical and technique racing. In perfect conditions out in Barcelona with a building breeze that just climbed the anemometer scale from 8 knots at the start through to a full-blooded 16 knots and a light chop, the professional sailors from the 37th America’s Cup teams, simply couldn’t have wished for more.

It was all-action from the very first start with INEOS Britannia absolutely acing the line, hitting it bang on the gun with pace and power to march into an early advantage. The British have showed flashes of absolute brilliance with a make-shift team co-opted into the AC40 ‘Athena’ having suffered illness within the original starting line-up and trimmers Luke Parkinson and Iain Jensen stepping in to assist the hard-charging Ben Ainslie and Giles Scott on the helms. At the top mark, the British selected the left-hand port gate marker and rounded first with Alinghi Red Bull Racing in second whilst close behind Emirates Team New Zealand, Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli and Orient Express filed to the starboard, right hand gate.

Calling the wind today was a dark art with plenty of freedom of expression allowed and whilst the right-hand side paid perhaps more often, the middle and playing the shifts, especially towards the top of the course seemed optimal. INEOS Britannia broke first from the starboard gybe downwind, keen to not bang a corner downwind as they did yesterday, and the Swiss were quick to follow with the knowledge that the Kiwis and Italians were flying down the left side of the course.

By the leeward gate, INEOS Britannia were still leading and opted for the port gate but suddenly a tactical call and perfect set-up from Arnaud Psarofaghis and Maxime Bachelin saw the Swiss round fast at the starboard marker (looking down the course) and headed into a click more pressure with fabulous boatspeed and low-riding. With the rest of the fleet underneath them as they tacked for the middle of course, it was clear that the Swiss had gained, and Alinghi Red Bull Racing brought every hour of their intense training to bear with a killer cross to seize the lead and most importantly have clean lanes to tack into.

After rounding the starboard gate, Alinghi Red Bull Racing lit the afterburners and with much better control and power downwind today, most likely after an intense de-brief from yesterday, never looked like relinquishing the lead. INEOS Britannia followed fast, rounding the port gate with Luna Rossa and looked absolutely composed, leaving the fight for the podium between Emirates Team New Zealand who looked absolutely buried in fourth place, and the Italians. The Kiwis were relentless in their downwind work and decided to play the shifts down the middle of the course, keeping the power on and all the pressure on the Italians. Alinghi Red Bull Racing crossed the line to win their first race in the 37 th  America’s Cup cycle, INEOS Britannia took a very credible second and with a great final gybe, Emirates Team New Zealand took third. Astonishingly good racing and all credit to the young Swiss team who more than deserved their victory.

With their confidence levels sky-high, Alinghi Red Bull Racing nailed the second start, setting up just to windward of Emirates Team New Zealand in a building breeze that was now up at peaks of 16 knots. Peter Burling went into an immediate, and highly effective, high mode that forced the Swiss off and the Kiwis barrelled over to the boundary where the tale of race two was set. On the tack back to port tack, Emirates Team New Zealand were clear ahead and one of the marks of the Kiwis is that they are excellent front-runners. A smooth rounding followed by outstanding and relentless work downwind with the mainsail fanning beautifully on every wave-form saw what one Recon Team Member described as a ‘Masterclass by the Kiwis’ who seemed to have real pace through the chop and just the smoothest flight on either gybe.

Luna Rossa and Alinghi Red Bull Racing trailed down the first run and then at the leeward gate, Peter Burling called for a ‘JK’ around the starboard marker to give them gauge to windward whilst the following yachts took the port marker at the gate. Classy move and no doubt one that’s been practiced relentlessly in the simulator, the Kiwis looked on another level in the breeze. With almost a quarter of a leg lead down the final run, the win was never in doubt with the Italians and Swiss making the podium after a gybing duel. Orient Express Racing were dicing with INEOS Britannia on the final leg, but a big sky-rocket and hobby-horse saw the boat come off its foils and sealed their fate. Great racing.

The start of race three saw some typical Gallic flair as Orient Express Racing led the fleet down to the pin end of the line and crossed with pace and power in a classic fleet race start. With a lee-bow on the Kiwis, this was Quentin Delapierre’s moment and as the French hit the boundary, they were ahead on the tack to port but with the high-moded Nathan Outteridge right under their bow as they led the fleet into the middle of the course. Before long, experience told, and Emirates Team New Zealand eased into another lead they simply wouldn’t relinquish. At the top mark, the Kiwis elected the starboard marker whilst second placed Alinghi Red Bull Racing and INEOS Britannia in hot pursuit elected for bear-aways at the port gate.

The wind at this point appeared to build down the left of the run, right where the Kiwis were playing and both the Swiss and British gybed over to cover. It was a gybe to forget for INEOS Britannia who broached and effectively ended their race and brought Luna Rossa and Alinghi Red Bull Racing into combat for the podium places. A split at the leeward gate would normally decide the order but that wasn’t the case. The Italians took the port exit, and the Swiss went to the starboard marker and up the beat, the Swiss played left middle whilst the Italians played right middle with the Kiwis up ahead and stretching away. At the final windward gate, Alinghi Red Bull Racing held second but the final gybing duel down the run saw Luna Rossa squeak ahead and take yet another second place. Thrilling racing but the Kiwis were on fire.

The writing was on the wall as race four got underway and once again Peter Burling muscled into the mid-line with Luna Rossa to leeward and INEOS Britannia just up to windward. As the meat in the sandwich, it was all about holding the lane and getting high and it wasn’t long before the Italians tacked to duck their stern and the British peeled away. With the left side of the beat secured, the Kiwis tacked across to cover Luna Rossa out right but already the lead was significant. By the windward mark, the Kiwis were in control rounding the starboard marker followed by Luna Rossa and the extended down the run and took the port gate with the Italians bringing up the rear and following suit. INEOS Britannia and Alinghi Red Bull Racing went for the starboard gate and were enjoying a decent tussle between them all the way up the final beat before disaster struck the Swiss on the final rounding with the rudder coming out of the water on a big bear-away at pace and sending the boat into a full-stop nosedive. Thankfully no injuries and the boat looked to have come away unscathed but a big moment for the sailors and the end of their day. The tale of the tape was a third win from four races for Emirates Team New Zealand who looked masterful and adaptable all day.

After sailing, the recon interviews were fascinating with everyone taking away so much from this initial two-days of racing (more to come next week), none more so than the French who impressed all round. Thierry Douillard, Orient Express Racing Team coach put it brilliantly saying: “We have made Friday, we finish an awesome day, awesome week, the boat is in one piece, no damage and the guys are doing some lee bows with the best sailors in world, and we are happy to compete. But I know the guys they want to beat them so they’re going to work hard, and, in our process, we still have to work on many, many, different process for the start…everything…but we are we’re on track and we just focus on ourselves, and it’ll be an awesome a year for us.”

Asked what the team need to do in the coming year, Thierry commented: “For us it’s to be humble, we know that we are late competitors, and we can’t catch in a small amount of time, so we just have to be realistic how we go step by step, every day, every hour on the water to try to edge the guys. It’s not tomorrow, it’s not Vilanova, it’s not Jeddah, it’s in 2024 at the end so we just need to take time, and things are really coming together.”

There was a real smile on Maxime Bachelin’s face after racing that he just couldn’t hide. Alinghi Red Bull Racing have been hugely impressive this week and he summed it up beautifully saying: “Yeah it was pretty nice racing all the day ,and the first race was heavy winds and still flat water because the wind was just increasing, so it was a lot of fun and yeah we did a very good start and we just managed the shifts because it’s quite tricky on this area – sometimes left, sometimes right – so really speaking a lot with the team about the pressure and the shifts and it was working very well for the first race….I think the objectives of the day was really to get faster on the downwind like to really get the speed that we didn’t have yesterday and I think we managed to have it today and we felt very strong on the speed upwind and downwind so it was making the day easier.”

Confidence is building in this young Swiss team and Maxime added: “We are so happy to be back on the racing, because we are waiting for this for more than one year and yeah just to fight against the others, we’re very happy with that and it was a good feeling as we were strong today, it was good.”

Elise Beavis, the ace Performance Analyst for Emirates Team New Zealand gave a terrific interview after sailing and kept it real saying: “It was a really awesome day out there today and yesterday. It’s been epic having five boats on the racetrack all racing around. It’s so cool actually having this fleet racing going on and able to put into practise and try these different fleet racing things which I guess as a team isn’t something that we’ve had for a long, long, time so yeah really cool, sort of working on how you set up to come off the line nicely, how you position yourself relative to the whole fleet, not just one other boat, so yeah really great day out there.”

Asked what the secret of their success was today, Elise alluded to the incredible work ethic withing Emirates Team New Zealand and their attention to detail saying: “We’ve done a lot of work on where our targets are and how the two sides of the boat is setting up and making sure that we have explored the options and the different ways that things are being set-up. I think since last time, a few weeks back when we raced, some of the other teams have really homed-in on the best ways to set up the boat and so making sure we nail that set-up to get as much speed out of the boat as possible.”

Asked what the team’s weakness is right now, Elise offered: “It’s getting off the start as well as possible and just having had so little practice in fleet racing, so I guess four yesterday, four today, it’s very few fleet races that we’ve had to do and something that we can’t emulate in our own training. So, we can work on tacks and work on gybes, we can work on straight-line speed and bear-away round-ups but you know the fleet racing is something we’ve had so little practice with so really trying to learn as much from these few days as we can.”

Philippe Presti, the super-calm, hugely respected coach for Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli was pleased with his team’s performance saying: “It was great to race especially in these conditions and tight racing and the boats are awesome for this sort of thing…Every time we can sail against all the boats is a goal for us, so we worked on our pre-start routine, our software and yeah we had a good finish of the day with three second places, pretty happy with that.”

Asked what differences he observed with how the Kiwis were sailing, Philippe said: “Mainly they were out of the line better than anyone else, so they had a free lane with kind of good pace obviously and from there on there just increasing the lead and yeah the last three races we were close to them, and they didn’t stretch from us, but you know the gain at the start was making the difference.” Philippe also made his observations on the AC40 as a boat saying: “They’re very similar on speed are very easy to handle and yeah it’s a great tactical tool just to play around.”

Final word to INEOS Britannia’s Luke Parkinson who gave a brilliantly honest interview after a day where consistency mattered, and the British showed real signs of potential. Explaining the day he said: “We had a bit of a day of everything, the conditions started light and then filled to a good breeze with some opportunities and we had some really good moments off the start in particular, showed some good speed in some of the conditions, but we also made quite a few mistakes and left a fair few lengths slip away too…We haven’t really been racing as much as what we probably want to be racing and it’s sort of showing a little bit and it’s sort of weighing up the trade-offs in importance I suppose, and we feel that we can catch up on this front and yeah, definitely enjoy doing so.”

Looking at the other teams’ performances, Luke observed: “The Kiwis are strong when the breeze is up for sure, they’re not making many mistakes and even when they don’t have a great start, they seem to be able to hold their patience and sail through and get a solid result. We press the wrong buttons and have a little wobble and we lose a little bit here and there and it just continuously adds up.” Refreshingly honest but more than a hint of determination around the INEOS Britannia base, this evening.

The only team not to compete this week was NYYC American Magic who opted for a one-boat day of testing today looking at two different sized mainsails. Paul Goodison was pleased with the decision the team took as the past two days have been vital for their design decisions on their AC75 but admitted to feeling on the outside of the racing , saying: “We’ve had a big test list to get through, primarily hydro at the beginning of week, this today was more primary focus on aero and we managed to see what we wanted to see but it’s always hard when you look over your shoulder and see the other guys racing and feel like you’re missing out a bit. But we achieved what we needed to do and the focus switches to racing and hopefully get amongst them get some race practise in next week.”

More practice racing is scheduled for next week with the Regatta Director, Iain Murray, yet to confirm the precise dates owing to the weather. More to come though from the AC40’s as they gear up for the first Preliminary Regatta in Vilanova i La Geltrú in two weeks’ time. Stay tuned.

Race Results – RACE PRACTICE DAY TWO

1/ Alinghi Red Bull Racing

2/ INEOS Britannia

3/ Emirates Team New Zealand]

4/ Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli

5/ Orient Express Racing Team

1/ Emirates Team New Zealand

2/ Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli

3/ Alinghi Red Bull Racing

4/ INEOS Britannia

4/ Orient Express Racing Team

(INEOS Britannia retired)

(Alinghi Red Bull Racing, INEOS Britannia, Orient Express Racing Team DNF)

ALEX CARABI / AMERICA’S CUP

UGO FONOLLÁ / AMERICA’S CUP

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Sailing’s Hydrofoiling Revolution

• By Herb McCormick
• January 18, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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racing sailboat ClubSwan 36

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14 Best Monohull Sailboats

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

Monohulls are among the most popular boats in the world accounting for over 75% of the total number of boats.

This means that choosing the best monohull sailboats for your sailing adventures can be overwhelming. Fortunately, we're here to help you by highlighting the best monohull sailboats.

Whether you're an accomplished sailor or just starting in the world of sailing, a monohull boat is an ideal option for anyone who wants a true sailing experience.

Unlike other types of sailboats, the level of adrenaline that a monohull brings to your sailing adventure is almost unmatched.

It doesn't matter whether the conditions are rough , wild, flat, or calm, a monohull is the perfect boat type for anyone looking for the thrills of the sail.

Unfortunately, you might not fully enjoy the thrills of sailing on a monohull sailboat if you do not choose the best monohull sailboat for you.

While a monohull cannot compete with multihull sailboats in terms of cabin size, anchoring closer to the shore, and comfort, it should hold its own if you are planning to spend more time at the sea and in unpredictable conditions. ‍

A monohull sailboat will definitely be an ideal option if you're planning to go to more challenging places. This is exactly why you have to make the right choice when looking for the best monohull sailboat.

Over the years, we've sailed many monohull sailboats and that's precisely why we feel confident that we can help you choose the best monohull sailboats.

We've gone through various designs and launches, tested them, and sifted through many monohull brands to select the best monohull sailboats that we strongly believe should be on your bucket list.

So without further ado, let's walk you through them.

Table of contents

Best Monohull Sailboats

{{boat-info="/boats/amel-55"}}

For several decades, Amel 55 has not only been the epitome of easy downwind handling but has developed a cult-like following among sailors. It was designed as the successor to the legendary Super Maramu and brings to the fore incredible features that every serious sailor will value. From a sturdily built hull, solid guardrails to a skeg-hung rudder, watertight bulkheads, and lush bulwarks, Amel 55 is built with anything you could ever want in a perfect monohull sailboat.

And even with a list of standard features, this monohull sailboat is truly designed for those who want to live comfortably on a sailboat for long periods. It comes with superb sea berths with lee cloths, a dishwasher, crockery, an electric furling main and genoa, and several practical items that will make sailing very comfortable.

We have to admit that the design might look old going by modern standards, especially with the advent of easier sail handling systems. For example, the ketch rig design is no longer ideal and is out of fashion. But even with this downside, the Amel 55 remains a phenomenon; a legendary monohull sailboat that ticks all the right boxes in the sailing world.

2. Bavaria Cruise 46

{{boat-info="/boats/bavaria-46-cruiser"}}

Probably the most popular monohull sailboat in recent years, the Bavaria Cruise 46 is a formidable monohull sailboat that was voted "European Yacht of the Year" in 2015. Well, this shouldn't be surprising as you'll probably never find another monohull sailboat in its class that offers more comfort, more space, more luxury, and easier handling.

You can transform the boat's 3 cabins into 4 cabins by transforming the huge forward cabin into two smaller cabins in a few simple steps. In the bow, you'll find a large and luxurious master cabin that can be easily divided using an innovative Flexi-bulkhead.

Its sporty design on the exterior, lightweight composite steering wheels, and a flexible selection of wood tones makes it look so good while offering the best dimensions for both short and long trips. In essence, the Bavaria Cruise 46 is an elegant monohull sailboat that redefines modern sailboats with its clever and innovative design.

3. Hallberg-Rassy 48 Mk II

{{boat-info="/boats/hallberg-rassy-48-mk-ii"}}

Following in the footsteps of the original Hallberg-Rassy 48 Mk that was launched a decade ago, the Mk II was launched in 2014 as an updated version thanks to its modern profile, incredible hull portlights, and larger and frameless windows. This Swedish monohull sailboat is solidly built, gorgeously finished, and is famous around the world and among sailors for its kind and smooth behavior at sea.

Its center cockpit is a true definition of what comfort should entail at sea. This is a monohull sailboat that will provide you with steady sailing both upwind and downwind. It can effortlessly cover 200 miles a day and doesn't require you to be a pro sailor to be able to handle it. If anything, it offers smooth sailing and can be perfectly handled by a casual sailing couple .

In terms of additional features, this monohull comes with a large chart table, lots of stowage and space, a secure linear galley, as well as extra machinery and gear that would be of great help when out on the water. This is a well-thought-out monohull sailboat and is perhaps the best Hallberg-Rassy ever built. This boat guarantees reliability, top-notch quality, and superb resale value.

4. Catalina 545

{{boat-info="/boats/catalina-545"}}

As one of the largest monohull sailboats in the game, the Catalina 545 stands out in the way it's engineered and designed to make it a truly excellent monohull sailboat. If you're an ardent Catalina fan, you'll notice that the 545 has some of the most eyebrow-raising features in bluewater cruising.

For example, the fiberglass collar is designed all-round the top of the hull and shaped like a construction beam. This is to give the hull a more enhanced rigidity while providing a sturdy base for the deck. It's also designed with solid stanchions and cleats, as well as strong sheer rails.

This superb monohull sailboat is constructed with a set of scuppers that play a crucial role in draining near the waterline so that you can perfectly eliminate any development of streaks or strains on the top side of the boat. As far as the bow is concerned, the sprit brings to the table an essential but unique anchor roller, a self-tacking jib, and a light displacement that makes the boat quick even in light or moderate wind. In essence, this monohull sailboat is designed with simple but reliable systems that are easily accessible. Better still, it remains one of the biggest monohull sailboats around.

5. Discovery 55

{{boat-info="/boats/discovery-55"}}

Having been launched two decades ago in 2000, the Discovery 55 has unquestionably stood the test of time and remains one of the most preferred monohull sailboats for families and couples around the world. This is a well-balanced and elegantly designed sailboat that brings to the sailing world immense practicality, comfortable seating, a deep and secure cockpit, dedicated stowage, and a self- tacking jib among many other things.

If you've been on a sailboat and bruised or stubbed your toes, you simply appreciate hos the superb monohull sailboat is designed to keep you safe and secure at all times. From the grab rails and handholds to deep sinks in the galley, the Discovery 55 is designed with plenty of nifty details and the inclusion of many practical ideas.

This sailboat will probably never disappoint you. It is well-mannered, comfortable to live on for days if not months, and a true definition of modern and luxurious. 

6. Contest 50CS

{{boat-info="/boats/contest-50cs"}}

If you want a serious monohull boat that can help you extend your sailing ground with ease and perhaps without even realizing it, the Contest 50CS is the way to go. For close to two decades, this Dutch-made monohull sailboat has been a consistent performer even with its dry weight of 17.5 tons.

This monohull is designed with impeccable modern underwater sections and a completely balanced rudder. Although the in-mast furling may affect the boat's performance, this boat can still perform incredibly well without it.

The fact that this boat is designed with a mainsheet traveler and electric winches that can be easily accessed from the helm makes it an ideal boat for a small crew or if you're planning to sail shorthanded. The genoa is easy to tack and two people can easily gybe downwind under spinnaker.

In addition to having exceptional touches on the interior, you might be surprised to learn that the joinery finish of this boat is arguably among the best in the boating industry. This is a monohull sailboat that's easy to handle, well-built, and has weathered the test of time to still mix it nicely with the big boys of recent years. Well, the Contest 50CS might not be among the cheapest monohull sailboats around but its demand is still soaring even today.

7. Bénéteau Oceanis 45

{{boat-info="/boats/beneteau-oceanis-45"}}

Named yacht of the year in 2012, the Bénéteau Oceanis 45 remains one of the most popular monohull sailboats in the world and for a good reason. This is a sailboat that redefines the important themes that made the Oceanis 50 so popular in a much better way.

One of the most noticeable features of this boat is that the mainsheet is designed in such a way that it doesn't obstruct the cockpit as you tack or jibe. This just a start; the cockpit is nicely designed and will serve you just right during your sailing endeavors. This monohull sailboat comes with three or four cabins, two bathrooms, and has a larger cockpit than other boats in its class.

This is a boat that keeps up with the Bénéteau tradition of being ahead of the game in terms of innovation, attention to detail, and offering top-notch performance. Whether you're looking to live aboard or sail to the remotest of places, this gorgeous monohull sailboat has everything you need in place. 

8. Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 36i

{{boat-info="/boats/jeanneau-sun-odyssey-36i"}}

Another French monohull sailboat that makes it to this list, the Odyssey 36i is a great monohull sailboat that is acknowledged for having some excellent assets in terms of sailing as it is faster and more agile than most sailboats. This is, without a doubt, an elegant monohull sailboat that brings to the sailing world an overall melodious package in terms of its modern design, power, and capability when sailing.

Even though its hull is of modest size, this monohull sailboat offers great value as it is easy to sail, easy to moor, and dock. Its magnificent electronics, folding prop, and electric anchor winch seem to make everything so easy that you do not even need a crew to sail this boat. The hull is lively and offers good acceleration. Imagine a monohull that can clock around 6.4 knots when sailing upwind.

To be honest, the interior of this boat is still very traditional but the exterior looks quite modern. The exterior is designed like an avant-garde sailboat and looks appealing from just about every angle. In terms of performance, this boat is designed with a deeper keel, spinnaker gear, taller rig, and a much better standing and running rigging.

On the interior, the most noticeable feature is the removable dining table that can be easily removed to accommodate extra bodies. Apart from that, there is nothing complex about the cockpit and deck layout. The double-roller bow fitting is nice and it comes with an optional electric windlass. In essence, this monohull sailboat is designed with lots of features. It is good-looking and reasonably priced.

9. Gunfleet 43

{{boat-info="/boats/gunfleet-marine-gunfleet-43"}}

For many sailors who have the dream of spending most of their time sailing to exotic places, the prospects of downsizing and living most of your essentials at home can be daunting. In other words, it's almost impossible to pack all your life in a 40 feet vessel if you've lived your entire life in a 2,000 feet house. While you can't bring things like your hot bathtub to the ocean, the Gunfleet gives you the chance of bringing most of your essential onboard thanks to its immense spaciousness.

This British-built monohull sailboat is modern, sleek, but kind of feels like a classic sailboat. It comes with an efficient hull that's laid up by hand to enhance attention to detail. The reverse transom brings to the fore a three-step ladder leading to the deck and a small swim platform. It's also designed with a low coach roof and a windshield that seems to taper towards the aft of the cockpit.

Its impeccable low profile gives it a contemporary look but the center-cockpit design is the most attractive part of its design. The aft deck section is expansive and comes with excellent twin zones for sunbathing. They're divided by a skylight and a hatch that lead to the master stateroom that's located below. Its two cabins and two heads are essential if you're planning for long passages. The interior is posh and offers ample natural light.

As far as performance and acceleration are concerned, this monohull sailboat holds well. It accelerates nicely even when out of tacks since the helm is responsive no matter the point of sail. This is an outstanding monohull sailboat that has a solid feel and will most certainly boost your confidence if you're planning to go for long passages even in snobbish conditions.

10. Island Packet 35

{{boat-info="/boats/island-packet-35"}}

Designed to offer top-notch performance, stability, and comfort, the Island Packet 35 is widely known for its spaciousness, modern interior, U-shaped galley, and a vast cockpit that certainly compares to most modern 40 feet sailboats while still holding to the classic lines.

This incredible monohull sailboat is designed with a short spoon, generous spring to the sheer, and a chopped off transom. It is perfectly designed bowsprit elongates the sheerline, which essentially makes the boat appear longer, lower, and much better than it is. As far as the keel is concerned, this is a full keel that's not heavy but very moderate.

The interior of this boat will probably make you think that you're looking at a 40-footer sailboat. It's so spacious that you can use it for your liveaboard sailing escapades. It also offers notable improvements in performance and certainly surpasses some of the company's earlier models. In ideal conditions, very few boats will match the Island Packet 35 in terms of performance. This is a very stable and comfortable monohull sailboat that doesn't hold back as far as performance is concerned.

11. Bowman 40

{{boat-info="/boats/chuck-paine-bowman-40"}}

Thanks to its medium-to-heavy displacement structure, the Bowman 40 is designed to sail across open seas with ease. A modern classic, this monohull sailboat looks pretty much traditional thanks to its overhanging bow, deep-bilged, and narrow shoulders. This makes it very powerful on the waters and offers a lot easier motion during long passages.

Better still, this sailboat is perfectly stable and enjoyable since you won't be thrown about even in strong waves. It's designed with handholds within reach both above and below the deck, as well as no sharp edges to ensure that you don't injure yourself. This is enabled by the balanced hull and carefully integrated sails, as well as ample ballast that's neither heavy nor lightweight. In short, this is a solidly built monohull sailboat that will serve you diligently even when you are confronted with stormy conditions.

Honestly speaking, the Bowman 40 isn't a racing cruiser but neither is it a slouch. It has the ability to sail through the heaviest of oceans and might arrive at your destination just at the same time as other lightweight sailboats. This is, without a doubt, a sailboat that's designed to take you offshore in all weather and sea conditions. 

12. Bavaria Cruiser 51

{{boat-info="/boats/bavaria-51-cruiser"}}

Even though it is one of the largest monohull sailboats, you'll probably never notice this once you start sailing. Well, this is because it handles unbelievably so well and can easily and comfortably accommodate up to ten crew members thanks to its three cabins. To offer optimum luxury, this boat can be customized to have five cabins, which is clear evidence that it can meet various needs.

This boat isn't just about being spacious. Instead, it's designed with all functionalities to enable you to enjoy your sailing adventures. Whether you take a look at its exterior, interior, deck, or cockpit, you'll realize that every part of this gorgeous monohull sailboat oozes class. While the most striking of this vessel's interior is its enormous space, it's also designed elegantly and beautiful to ensure that you enjoy your sailing adventures.

In terms of its hull, you're getting a very agile boat that you can easily control even when the winds are extremely strong. In essence, this is a monohull sailboat that's well and generously proportioned in all aspects. It's modern, sleek, and will turn head whether at the dock or deep at sea. 

13. Wauquiez Centurion 57

{{boat-info="/boats/wauquiez-centurion-57"}}

Thanks to its exciting Mediterranean-style design and functionality, the Centurion 57 is a serious monohull sailboat that feels robust, solid, and truly marks the reincarnation of the legendary Centurion generation of luxury monohull sailboats. Designed as a racing sailboat, the Centurion 57 is thoroughbred, powerful, and impeccably maneuverable but that doesn't mean that you have to use it as a racing cruiser.

Instead, it's comfortable, luxurious, and elegant and brings to the fore everything that French boat makers are known for: class, beauty, and reliability. Its hull is unquestionably one of the most powerful and versatile. It's designed to withstand the harshest of sailing conditions .

It has a very spacious and large cockpit that's designed to afford you maximum versatility while out there. This means that you'll get lots of free space to efficiently maneuver the boat in the tightest situations and also to make things a lot easier if you're sailing shorthanded. From the electric winches to the helm position, you can easily access the transoms.

This is a monohull sailboat that guarantees calm, luxury, and comfort without compromising on performance and speed. It oozes modernity, solidity, and immense attention to details.

14. Rustler 42

{{boat-info="/boats/rustler-yachts-rustler-42"}}

If you've been looking for a monohull sailboat that combines serious performance attributes to other crucial blue water cruising elements, look no further than the Rustler 42. This is a gorgeous, fast, and reliable monohull sailboat that remains the benchmark of all monohull sailboats of its size. It not only offers directional stability but can also carry immense loads and is solid enough even for long passages.

This is a classing looking monohull sailboat that perfectly combines traditional style with modernity and innovativeness. It is not only elegant but also very stable and should be an ideal choice if you're looking for the best liveaboard monohulls.

Its spacious cabin is big enough to offer standing headroom and, of course, plenty of storage within the lockers. The hull is hand-laid using glass fiber reinforced polyester to ensure that it's solid, reliable, and durable.

In Conclusion

There you have it; the above-described vessels are the best monohull sailboats today. They are designed to enhance your sailing experience and ensure that you always enjoy your time out there on the water. Whichever boat you choose, it's essential to ensure that it's in good condition, well-maintained, and in perfect shape for your adventures.

Until next time, stay safe and happy sailing!

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

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