US first first foiling electric powerboat is the most technologically advanced recreational boat on—or above—the water

 

Navier is no ordinary boat company. It is trying to reinvent the boat as we know it and define the future of waterborne transportation.

At speeds reaching or exceeding 18 knots, this new boat flies on foils that are similar in design to high-performance America’s Cup sailing vessels. In fact, the Navier team includes world-renowned experts involved in the development of America’s Cup foiling race boats.

At the 2021 Palm Beach International Boat Show, Navier Boat —a Silicon Valley startup—announced the first product for the new brand, a 27-foot foiling performance-craft that is capable of a range exceeding 75 nautical miles all under electric propulsion, with exceptionally advanced autonomy features. The foils will ensure a smooth ride over chop and the minimal wetted surface reduces drag, resulting in the most efficient operation possible.

High-tech features of the vessel include a highly advanced autopilot capable of both speed and course control, as well as an aerospace-grade foil control system and assistive docking technology, making the Navier 27 the most technologically advanced recreational boat on—or above—the water.

“Navier 27 represents a solid rebuke of conventional wisdom – a boat that delivers silent, eco-friendly electric operation without sacrificing on performance and utility. But, to live up to the moniker, “the boat of the future”, Navier 27 had to be more. We aim to re-imagine the experience of operating a boat and bring technological innovations that truly set us apart.” – Navier Boat.

Sampriti Bhattacharyya is the co-founder and CEO of this new U.S.-based company that will design and build electrically propelled foiling powerboats, initially just for the recreational market. She is an MIT PhD in mechanical engineering with original contributions in the field of hydrodynamic design. With extensive experience in ocean technology as well as prior experience as an aerospace engineer building flight control systems at NASA, Sampriti brings an impressive wealth of knowledge to Navier.

Navier’s other co-founder and CTO is Reo Baird. Reo holds degrees in aerospace, electrical and computer engineering and specializes in autonomous systems. Baird has extensive professional experience in the marine industry, and he is a lifelong boater who has logged over 10,000 ocean miles. His experience and knowledge of advanced autonomous systems will play a key role in the design of the Navier 27.

The smooth ride and a sporty handling is enabled by aerospace stabilization technology. Navier 27 features retracting foils, assisted docking, advanced autopilot, and hazard alert. With a capacity of 10 passengers, the boat is aware of its surroundings, alerting you of danger before it’s too late. Available in 2 versions (cabin and open version), Navier 27 can be checked in from anywhere in the world via smartphone.