F50 Catamaran: Technology and Evolution in Sailing

The F50 Catamaran is a high-performance racing vessel that has revolutionized the world of sailing. Designed for the SailGP series, it combines significant historical evolution with technological innovations that position it as one of the fastest and most advanced sailboats in the world.

History and Evolution of the F50 Catamaran

The F50 is an adaptation of the AC50, used in the 2017 America’s Cup in Bermuda. Although it shares its origins with the AC50, the F50 catamaran has been extensively modified to improve performance and safety. These modifications include new control systems and modular wing sails, allowing for faster, more stable, and flatter flight.

Its construction was carried out by Core Builders Composites in New Zealand, requiring approximately 135,000 hours of work to ensure the fleet was ready for the first SailGP season. Initially, three AC50s were converted to meet the F50's one-design regulations, and three additional boats were built from scratch, creating an initial fleet of six vessels.

Technology and Design of the F50: What Makes It So Fast?

It stands out for its innovative design and cutting-edge technology. With a length of 15 meters and a beam of 8.8 meters, it is primarily built from carbon fiber, giving it both lightness and strength. Its most notable feature is the use of foils, appendages that lift the hull above the water, reducing drag and allowing speeds exceeding 50 knots (approximately 92.6 km/h).

The propulsion system of the F50 catamaran includes a rigid sail (wing) and a jib. The wing is modular, composed of sections that allow its height to be adjusted between 18 and 24 meters depending on wind conditions. Additionally, wings up to 29 meters are being developed to optimize performance in light wind conditions.

Unlike its predecessor, the AC50, the F50 features advanced hydraulic and electric control systems. Most adjustments are made using electric motors and lithium-ion batteries, allowing for more precise control of the foils and other control surfaces. This automation reduces the physical workload of the crew, which consists of five members: helmsman, wing trimmer, flight controller, and two grinders.

Its design also incorporates a network of sensors that collects up to 30,000 data points, providing real-time information on the boat's performance and environmental conditions. This data analysis capability is crucial for strategy and performance in SailGP competitions.

The F50 Catamaran is the result of years of innovation and refinement in competitive sailing. Its avant-garde design and foil technology have redefined speed on the water, solidifying it as the protagonist of SailGP. With every race, this boat not only pushes the limits of the sport but also paves the way for the future of sailing. 

Photos: SailGP