What was formerly the worlds fastest sailing craft - Hydroptere, is planning to break the world record for the fastest transpacific crossing from Los Angeles to Honolulu, doing it in just 4 days.

Not only is this the worlds fastest sailing boat over 1nm, it was the first to break the elusive 50 knot barrier in 2008 reaching a top speed of 56.3 knots (104kmph). Interestingly, unlike the other boats trying to break the record, Hydroptere is capable of ocean crossings using it’s giant hydrofoils on the outboard hulls to lift it clear of small swells. It can also sleep a few crew members, host media personnel on calmer days and of course (a necessity in this day and age) transmit live video and picture streams as they’re racing. It’s a remarkable craft, and an extraordinary sailing achievement if they make it.

Currently there’s no date set for the crossing, which requires a unique set of weather conditions to be met. The team needs an average wind of 25 knots for the entire way, with winds up to 40 knots hoped for. They’re also working quickly on a wingsail to replace the conventional carbon/mylar sails they’re using now. This addition will add a few more knots onto their speed, but also add another dimension of complexity to the already aircraft-like boat.

Sailed by a crew of ex-world champions, record setters and supported by a team of aeronautical engineers on the shore, this world record sailing attempt has everything going for it. Skipper Alain Thebault even has the backing of Prince Albert the second of Monaco, who’s funding part of the project as well as the aviation world record attempt – Solar Impulse which is expected to arrive in Hawaii at a similar time to Hydroptere!

It’s a very exciting time for the sport of sailing, and in particular hydrofoiling, so stay tuned for the next world record attempt, or news of this one leaving LA!

 

 

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