Hobie Trifoiler Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Trifoiler project dates back to 1981, beginning with a small model inspired by existing hydrofoil designs. Greg Ketterman dedicated years to its development, building multiple prototypes like the TF20 and Longshot, refining the hydrofoil concept before it reached production. The boat was originally launched as the Ketterman Trifoiler in 1992 by TriFoiler Inc., with Hobie Cat later taking over production from 1994 until 1999. This collaboration brought Ketterman's innovative design to a broader audience under the Hobie brand, known for democratizing sailing through accessible and thrilling boats like the Hobie 14 and 16. During its production run, approximately 180 units were built. Ketterman's design philosophy centered on achieving automatic and virtually unlimited stability through its foiling system, a complex engineering challenge for the time. The design featured twin "windsurfer-type" sails and a unique three-rudder configuration to manage its high-speed dynamics.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hobie Trifoiler is renowned for its exceptional speed and unique on-water behavior, a direct result of its hydrofoiling design. With a lightweight displacement of just 320 lbs and a generous 215 sq ft of sail area, it is engineered for rapid acceleration and high-speed runs. Owners and reviewers consistently describe the Trifoiler as an "amazing sailing machine" capable of reaching speeds well over twice the wind speed. It typically takes about 12 knots of breeze to lift clear of the water and fully engage its foils with two passengers, at which point it offers remarkable handling and an incredibly smooth ride.

The boat's ability to handle rough water is often compared to water skiing, with optimal performance and enjoyment found in smoother conditions. When not foiling, however, some anecdotal evidence suggests that the Trifoiler can feel less efficient than traditional sailboats, highlighting its specialized design for hydrofoiling. The Trifoiler’s unique retractable foils and multiple rudders contribute to its advanced control systems, allowing the pilot to manage both the sails and foils from the center cockpit.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its design as a high-performance foiling trimaran, the Hobie Trifoiler prioritizes speed and agility over creature comforts. At 22 feet in length and 19 feet of beam, the boat's primary focus is the sailing experience, offering minimal, if any, enclosed accommodations. There is no mention of interior headroom in the specifications, and search results for interior layouts or sleeping arrangements are virtually non-existent. This suggests that the Trifoiler is a day sailor, designed for exhilarating runs on the water, with space primarily dedicated to the pilot and a potential passenger within an open cockpit configuration. Its lightweight construction from fiberglass further supports its performance-oriented, rather than cruising, design ethos.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hobie Trifoiler consistently laud its unparalleled speed and the unique thrill of foiling. Many consider it to offer "the most speed per dollar of any production" sailboat. Despite its age, discussions in online forums indicate a passionate community of owners who remain dedicated to maintaining and sailing these innovative boats. Forums often feature technical questions and discussions about parts, with former members of the development team sometimes offering assistance.

However, some common themes emerge regarding potential challenges. Owners occasionally report issues such as delaminated sails, especially on older models, and the need for maintenance on components like the bungee cords for sail control. The specialized nature of the Trifoiler means that parts can be harder to source, though some inventory remains available. While robust when foiling, the boat's design is highly specialized, meaning that it is not optimized for sailing when off its foils. Despite these considerations, the enduring enthusiasm in owner communities underscores the Trifoiler's status as a highly regarded, if demanding, piece of sailing innovation.