We always get quite excited about a new foiling boat being presented for the first time.
We all know how successful the Moths have been in introducing a relatively large number of sailors to foil-sailing (or foiling). What it was missing was a vessel that made it easier to start your foiling career because the flying months aren’t exactly the easiest boats to start with.
So here it is a new foiling boat called the Flying Mantis built entirely in the UK. In our opinion a great learning boat for novice foilers. (Watch the video Below)
As a matter of fact, if we were to imagine a foiling school for those who want to learn foiling/foil-sailing, it would be hard to imagine a more suitable boat than this new foiling boat. It is also important to mention that the Flying Mantis can actually be used as a trimaran without the foils for a slower sailing session (maybe with your 5-year old child onboard). It is indeed somewhat of a dual purpose vessel. You could say the same about a foiling catamaran by taking the foils off of it, however, I would personally find a foiling catamaran as safe as the flying mantis if I were to bring 5 year old nephews aboard for a slower sailing session.
We had a long chat with the owner and founder of the company that designed and built this new foiling boat. While chatting with Simon, not surprisingly, we did notice the enthusiasm and accuracy needed to build and sell these types of vessels.
The Foil variable pitch (flaps) mechanism is very similar to those you’ll find on a moth
The central foil has flaps that dynamically regulate the pitch of the foil itself using a sensor stick at bow, that is very similar to those use on flying moths.
The central foil of The Flying Mantis
The shape of the foils is particularly interesting from an hydrodynamic point of view and seems to be very well designed and solidly built with a masterful use of carbon fibre. We did particularly like the water piercing edge to it which would serve the foil well to reduce the load and increasing the foil lifespan.
A smart small feature to keep the till in place and avoid sudden movements for increased safety while foiling
It might look like a trivial little detail but it is a very very crucial one. The elastic the keeps the tiller centred is crucial to avoid sudden movements at high speed while foiling which could cause harmful unwanted capsizing of the boat. Very well thought. We have no doubt this comes from several tests that were carried out with the boat before presenting it at London Boat Show 2018.
The Royal Yachting Association has already tried the boat do have a look at the video they have produced.
The price and opportunity
Currently priced slightly below £40,000 we believe it is very well worth looking at. We also see potential for a Foiling/Sailing School with this new foiling boat, maybe the first of its kind. If you would like to build a fast business plan go ahead and download our excel business plan model tailored for boat rentals.
If you would like to know more or explore the a business opportunities with new foiling boats like the flying mantis in your area don’t hesitate to contact us
The Flying Mantis will also be showcased on the 10th – 12th May at the https://londononwater.com/
