DDrift

Chapter 03 of 5

Hydrofoils: Flying on Water

Lifting hulls above the waves to break the 50-knot barrier.

  1. The Physics

    Defining Hydrofoils

    Hydrofoils are underwater wings that generate lift as the boat gains speed. Once lift exceeds weight, the entire hull rises out of the water.

  2. Drag Reduction

    The Friction Barrier

    Water is 784 times denser than air. By lifting the hull, sailors eliminate the massive surface friction that slows traditional boats down.

  3. Turning Point

    The 2013 Breakthrough

    In the 34th America's Cup, Team New Zealand shocked the world by 'foiling' upwind. This moment changed the sport from sailing to flying forever.

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What is the primary reason hydrofoils allow boats to reach such high speeds?

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⛵ America's Cup

  1. 01The 1851 ChallengeHow the schooner America ignited a 170-year naval rivalry.
  2. 02The Wing-Sail RevolutionTrading soft canvas for vertical airplane wings.
  3. 03Hydrofoils: Flying on WaterLifting hulls above the waves to break the 50-knot barrier.
  4. 04The Grinders & CyclorsHuman power meets hydraulic pressure in the engine room.
  5. 05Design Rule Courtroom BattlesWhere lawyers and blueprints win the race before it starts.