Revolutionary in its approach to recreational sailing, this unique three-hulled craft represents Hobie's bold experiment with hydrofoil technology from the 1980s. Unlike traditional sailboats that push through water, the Trifoiler was designed to lift completely above the surface on submerged foils, delivering an exhilarating flying sensation that few other sailing craft could match. Built for speed enthusiasts and adventure seekers, this boat excels in moderate coastal conditions where its foiling capabilities can truly shine. The distinctive three-hull configuration provides exceptional stability while allowing the craft to achieve remarkable velocities once airborne. However, the Trifoiler demands skilled handling and precise technique, making it better suited for experienced sailors rather than casual weekend cruisers. The boat's reputation centers on its thrilling performance characteristics and steep learning curve. When conditions align and the sailor's technique is dialed in, the Trifoiler delivers an almost addictive rush of speed and the unique sensation of sailing above the water. This specialized nature, combined with limited production numbers, has made the Trifoiler a sought-after collector's item among performance sailing enthusiasts who appreciate its pioneering approach to recreational hydrofoil sailing.
No owner reviews yet — be the first to share your experience with this boat.
What is the Hobie Trifoiler's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Hobie Trifoiler has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 73.61. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Hobie Trifoiler's comfort ratio?
The Hobie Trifoiler has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 0.49. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Hobie Trifoiler safe for offshore sailing?
The Hobie Trifoiler has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 11.12. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Hobie Trifoiler?
The theoretical hull speed of the Hobie Trifoiler is 5.79 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Hobie Trifoiler weigh?
The Hobie Trifoiler has a displacement of 320.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 22.00 ft.
Who designed the Hobie Trifoiler?
The Hobie Trifoiler was designed by Greg Ketterman, first built in 1994.