The ‘foiler’ is a type of boat which manages to maintain a state of equilibrium out of the water once it has reached a certain speed. Its hull obtains lift thanks to a set of submerged wings, referred to as ‘foils’ or ‘hydrofoils’. These eliminate the friction of the water against the hull along with the drag from the wave created by the wetted surface area on the hull, thus enabling such boats to increase their speed.
Contrary to existing foils, which look like an inverted T or comma shape, the P28 actually features inverted π-shaped foils. Their very elongated forms enable greater refinement and hence a gain in speed due to them creating less drag for the same amount of lift. Beyond this innovation, the aim is to be more manoeuvrable and high performance in all sailing conditions, both in flight and floating.
Manoeuvrable and high performance in flight and floatation mode
The π -shaped foil is comprised of a beam supported at two points. This arrangement reduces the stresses that put pressure on the right angles, the latter being the weak points in carbon structures. It also enables the surface of the foils to be extended, thus optimising their performance.
The technology involved in foils with several lift surfaces facilities the vessel’s ability to power up and take off in light airs and provides less drag once the boat is in ‘flight mode’.
The benefits are as follows:
- Eased elevation at low speed
- Easier manœuvring
- Developed potential for speed
