A new construction site in the flying boat
Following in the footsteps of pioneer Candela, countless manufacturers have entered the electric foil boat market. The technology is still reserved for big budgets, but it is giving rise to some fine products. At the Cannes Yachting Festival 2023, the Dutch company Edorado presented the Edorado 8S, a beautifully finished 8.35 m unit, capable of flying at 38 knots.
Patented flight technologies
The Edorado takes off on 2 points. A large rear foil is mounted on 2 vertical arms, with the electric motors and azimuth bases at their feet. A flap adjusts the boat's trim. A second support plane at the bow completes the supports.
For sailing in shallow waters and when maneuvering in port, the foils disappear into the hull, leaving only the motor bases protruding, and the draught is reduced from 1.25 m to 45 cm.
According to the manufacturer, the two 50 kW motors enable take-off from 14 knots. The range provided by the 80 kWh is 40 miles at 25 knots. Edorado claims that its patented anti-collision technology guarantees perfect navigational safety.
Luxury and technology
Beyond its sleek, elegant silhouette, with a curved windshield reminiscent of runabouts, all the details don't hide the Edorado 8S's very high-end positioning. Boarding is via an electrically-operated tilting transom, which creates an attractive bathing platform.
A large leather sundeck comfortably accommodates passengers, who can stow their belongings in attractive lockers in the bulwark or flush with the platform. Champagne bottle racks and flute rack also have their place...
Once inside the sleek cockpit, there are two ergonomic seats and a rear bench. The attractive dashboard resembles that of a top-of-the-range car, and allows you to control all functions, from appendages and speed to comfort equipment. The attention to detail is still there, with the fender ranges.
The Edorado is a fine interpretation of this new attribute of the wealthy yachtsman, the electric foiler.
