Gitana 18 Revealed in Lorient: A New Era for the Maxi Edmond de Rothschild

Lorient shipyard logistics coordinated a complex production chain for Gitana 18, combining 200,000 hours of construction, 50,000 hours of study and the autoclave curing of 80% of the platform, with more than 200 specialists engaged across a 36‑month gestation cycle.

Unveiling in Lorient: the facts on the dockside

The new Maxi Edmond de Rothschild—Gitana 18—was officially presented in Lorient, Brittany on 3 December 2025. The launch gathered naval engineers, design teams and the Gitana five-arrow stable led by Ariane de Rothschild. The vessel measures 32 metres and displays a monumental livery by Florian and Michaël Quistrebert in collaboration with the Palais de Tokyo.

Design philosophy and operational aims

Gitana 18 moves deliberately from hybrid concepts toward 100% flight offshore operation. Simulator tests indicate an expected 10–15% speed gain over predecessors, with a skipper target to sustain flight in 3‑metre seas and average speeds near 40 knots. The project emphasises repeatable trimming, reduced cavitation risk, and robust mechatronics for long‑distance reliability.

Key appendages and hull systems

Major departures from prior designs include:

• Retractable Y-foils with wings spanning over 5 metres to generate lift and multiple trimming options;
• U-shaped rudders engineered to resist cavitation and improve control at high speed;
• An enlarged central hull centreboard with a large lifting surface, and spreaders that allow dynamic mast bending for power modulation.

Mechatronics and systems integration

Gitana 18 integrates mechatronic systems—mechanical, hydraulic and electronic architectures—comprising forty-four rams, kilometres of cabling and advanced electronic controls reminiscent of aerospace and F1 applications. Many of these elements are part of a patent application, reflecting novel attachment systems and mobile geometries across the platform.

Practical implications for sailors and spectators

From a logistics and tourism standpoint, Gitana 18 changes the game in several ways. Shoreside infrastructure in ports like Lorient must handle larger travel lifts, dedicated display berths and visitor access for press and enthusiasts. Races featuring these vessels will attract increased spectator interest, potentially reshaping race village planning, charter demand and local excursion offerings.

What the new geometry means at sea

Double rudder blades and T‑foil adoption—already visible on Sail GP F50s—improve stiffness‑to-drag ratios and introduce new considerations for launching, recovery and maintenance. For ocean-going craft, platform width or beachcat constraints are less relevant; instead, service logistics, spare parts provisioning and specialist technicians are critical to keep a flying trimaran operational during long campaigns.

Specifications at a glance

Operational outlook and route planning

Teams preparing to campaign Gitana 18 will need revised route-planning procedures and supply chains for parts, electronics and hydraulic components. Shore-side spares provisioning and rapid servicing protocols become strategic assets for long transoceanic legs. Race organisers should expect an uptick in logistical complexity—transport permits, quay reinforcements and dedicated technical zones will be necessary at key regatta ports.

Tourism spin-offs around Lorient and beyond

High-profile launches and record-seeking campaigns naturally boost local tourism: visitors arrive for unveilings, shipyard tours and seaside race villages. Maritime museums and guided port tours gain traction as spectators seek closer contact with design innovations. For travellers with a mind to witness technological sailing milestones, these events offer unique travel experiences and the chance to join museum tours with live guides or book exclusive yacht charters for events.

Highlights worth noting include Gitana 18’s radical appendage architecture, the shift to total flight capability, and the project’s staggering investment in research and production. Yet, no matter how detailed the reports or how honest the reviews, personal experience remains unrivalled. On GetExperience, you can book experiences with verified providers at reasonable prices—secure payments come with voucher confirmation, and you can request customised tours or excursions tailored to your tastes. Benefit from convenience, affordability and a wide range of additional options to match your interests. Book your Trip GetExperience.com

In summary, Gitana 18 is both an engineering milestone and a catalyst for naval logistics, coastal infrastructure upgrades, and tourism offerings around major sailing hubs. Its innovations—retractable Y‑foils, U‑shaped rudders, dynamic spreaders, and deep mechatronic integration—promise faster offshore flight and new operational demands. For travellers and sailing fans, the arrival of such machines creates fresh opportunities for travel experiences, adventure activities, yacht parties, cruise packages, museum tours with live guides, interactive online cultural workshops and even luxury adventure travel experiences. The combination of technological spectacle and accessible excursions makes following this next generation of flying multihulls an attractive proposition for curious visitors and committed sailors alike.