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Vessev, the New Zealand shipyard, unveils a new model with electric motor and foils, the VSâeuros9 Skye. Featuring a carbon composite catamaran hull and retractable foils, this sub-9-meter open boat is intended to be an alternative to RIBs for fast, quiet and stable sailing. But what does it really mean in practice?
Electric propulsion for fast coastal shipping
With a cruising speed of 25 knots and an advertised range of 50 miles, the VSâeuros9 Skye aims to break the usual limits of electric cÃ'tiers boats. The main technical argument rests on the foils, which drastically reduce drag once the hull rises out of the water.
The manufacturer claims that fuel consumption is identical at 5 and 25 knots. This is a direct effect of the reduced friction provided by the foils, but also of the optimized propulsion management provided by an in-house developed motor, the VSâeurosDrive. The whole system is powered by a 105 kWh lithium battery.
However, range will depend heavily on the usage profile: flat or rough seas, on-board load, use of comfort systems. In real-life conditions, it's hard to guarantee a constant 50-mile range under full load, regardless of the weather.
Retractable foils to widen sailing areas
This is undoubtedly the most interesting feature for coastal sailors: the foils are fully retractable. In other words, the boat can be sailed in "submerged hull" mode to pass through shallow draught areas, run aground on a beach or take up position in a traditional harbor.
The transition between modes is performed without manual operation. However, the system remains subject to regular monitoring: mechanism, actuators, position sensors. There are also questions about the boat's dynamic behavior in heavy seas, when the foils are partially extended.
When sailing, the foils reduce the impact of waves by up to 75 centimetres. This means we're dealing with a boat that can cross seas at force 2, or even a little higher, but which is still suitable for coastal sailing in favorable weather conditions.
A compact catamaran with an optimized deck layout
At 8.95 mètres long and 3.10 mètres wide, the VSâeuros9 Skye remains within the dimensions of a catamaran that can be transported or stored ashore. The catamaran configuration provides a wide, stable deck, much appreciated when sailing fast or standing still. The deck is divided into three living areas: rear bench seat with table, central sundeck, and bow-rider forward.
The advertised maximum capacity is 10 people, which corresponds to a day out with family or friends. It's a far cry from a cruise boat, but that's not the point: the aim is to maximize the space available on board, without a superstructure or cabin.
All-carbon construction... double-edged
The shipyard has opted for an all-carbon composite construction. This material offers rigidity, lightness and mechanical tolerance, especially in the case of a hydrofoil boat. The weight/power ratio becomes critical on this type of unit, and the choice of carbon is justified by the quest for maximum energy efficiency.
But carbon has its constraints. It is expensive to produce, requires specific expertise for assembly, and generates a significant carbon footprint during manufacture. For the moment, there's no mention of recyclability or low-carbon manufacturing processes, which could be debatable on a boat presented as eco-responsible.
For use as a charter or top-of-the-range nautical base
The VSâeuros9 Skye is clearly designed for day use. Its range, ease of recharging, welcoming deck layout and silent sailing make it a logical candidate for nautical bases, hotels or high-end charter companies.
Recharging mode remains a point to be anticipated. To take full advantage of its fast-charging capabilities (up to 150 kW continuous), suitable port infrastructures will be needed, which are still rare in certain tourist areas. Alternating current (230 V) recharging is limited to 22 kW, i.e. a complete cycle in several hours.
The positioning therefore remains fairly targeted: supervised coastal cruises, premium services, or personal use for yachtsmen looking for a comfortable, innovative experience... with a certain budget.
