Tiwal: Inflating the Possibilities of Sail
In an industry often characterized by rigid structures and traditional craftsmanship, a French innovator emerged in the early 21st century to challenge conventions, proving that high-performance sailing could indeed fit into two bags. Tiwal, a name synonymous with inflatable yet exhilarating sailboats, has carved a unique niche by blending portability with genuine sailing prowess.
The genesis of Tiwal can be traced back to 2012, a year that marked the official launch of the company and its groundbreaking concept. At its heart are co-founders Marion Excoffon, an industrial designer with a bold vision, and Emmanuel Bertrand. Excoffon's inspiration stemmed from a desire to create a boat that was not only fun and engaging to sail but also incredibly easy to transport and set up. Facing initial skepticism, Excoffon's resolve led her to explore the idea of an inflatable hull, ultimately giving birth to the first Tiwal inflatable dinghy. This pioneering vessel, which debuted at the 2012 Paris Boat Show, represented a radical departure from traditional sailing dinghies, emphasizing accessibility and adventure without compromising on performance.
History and Evolution
From its founding in 2012, Tiwal quickly embarked on a path of innovation and expansion. While the company maintains a significant presence and corporate operations in Cambridge, MA, its design and primary headquarters are located in Plescop, France. The company's history is marked by a consistent drive to refine its inflatable sailboat technology. A key milestone in Tiwal's evolution has been the emphasis on user-friendly design; their boats are renowned for their rapid assembly, typically taking less than 20 minutes to set up without the need for specialized tools. This focus on practicality has been central to their success and broad appeal, allowing sailors to go from bag to water with unprecedented speed.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Tiwal's reputation in the sailing world is built upon its distinctive design philosophy: to create reactive, playful, and performance-oriented inflatable dinghies. They are celebrated for their versatility, equally at home on saltwater coastlines or freshwater lakes, and designed to be enjoyed by both children and adult sailors alike.
A signature aspect of Tiwal's identity is its commitment to portability. Each boat, including the mast and sail, can be stowed compactly into just two carrying bags, making transportation by car, boat, or even airplane remarkably simple. Despite their inflatable nature, Tiwal boats are engineered for genuine sailing sensations, offering quick acceleration even in light breezes. For their sails, Tiwal collaborates with North Sails, a world-leading sailmaker, utilizing durable Dacron and monofilm materials to ensure performance and longevity. While traditional naval architects are not cited in their design process, the innovative industrial design by co-founder Marion Excoffon is the core of the brand's unique aesthetic and functional success.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Tiwal has introduced a range of successful models, each designed to cater to different sailing preferences and family needs:
- Tiwal 3: This foundational model remains a flagship, weighing 28 kg (62 lbs) and measuring 10' 6" long, capable of assembly in just 20 minutes. It is a versatile all-rounder, popular for its ease of handling and enjoyable sailing characteristics.
- Tiwal 2: More compact than its elder sibling, the Tiwal 2 is especially suited for deployment from larger yachts or catamarans, offering a lively and fun sailing experience for families.
- Tiwal 3R: Introduced as a "supercharged" racing dinghy, the Tiwal 3R emphasizes high performance and exceptional gliding sensations. Its racing prowess was recognized when it was elected "Boat of the Year 2023" by Sailing World magazine. It offers various sail configurations, including a 77 sq ft Lightwind sail and a 67 sq ft Freeride sail.
- Tiwal 2XL: The largest model in the lineup, the Tiwal 2XL is designed specifically for family adventures. It is wider and longer, and notably, it is the first Tiwal model to be equipped with a headsail, providing more sail area and stability for multiple occupants.
- Tiwal 2L: Another variant, designed to offer specific advantages within the compact range.
Tiwal's legacy lies in its pioneering role in creating a market for high-performance, transportable inflatable sailboats. They have redefined what is possible with an inflatable hull, proving that convenience does not have to come at the expense of sailing excitement.
The Builder Today
Today, Tiwal continues to thrive as a privately held company, with co-founders Emmanuel Bertrand and Marion Excoffon maintaining majority ownership. With its headquarters in France and a significant corporate presence in the USA, Tiwal boasts a strong international reach.
The modern Tiwal fleet appeals to a broad demographic, from yacht owners seeking a versatile tender to families looking for accessible watersports, and even performance enthusiasts desiring a portable racing platform. The ownership experience is notably marked by a vibrant and engaged "Tiwal Captains Community." Owners actively share their sailing adventures on social media, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie. Furthermore, Tiwal actively cultivates this community by organizing its own regattas in scenic locations like the Gulf of Morbihan in France, drawing Tiwal owners from around the globe to participate in spirited competition and shared passion. This focus on community and continued innovation ensures Tiwal remains a dynamic and influential player in the contemporary marine industry.
