Windrider Rave (Tri-Foiler) Information, Review, Specs

The Windrider Rave made its debut in 1998, with production continuing until 2010, resulting in 136 units built. The genesis of the Rave reflects Windrider's broader manufacturing ethos, which transitioned from high-performance kayaks to accessible multihulls by leveraging durable and cost-effective roto-molded polyethylene construction. While legendary multihull designer Jim Brown contributed to other Windrider models like the WR16 and WR17, the Rave itself was the brainchild of Dr. Sam Bradfield. Bradfield's design philosophy for the Rave centered on making hydrofoil sailing both affordable and comfortable, while still delivering exhilarating speeds and high performance. The goal was to provide a boat that could perform across a wide range of wind speeds, excelling even in light air. The Rave was also conceived with Windrider's "Sailing Simplified" image in mind, aiming for relative ease of handling despite its advanced hydrofoil system. Later in its life, an updated version, the Rave V, was developed, with Larry Knauer serving as the lead designer for its refinements.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a hydrofoil-assisted trimaran, the Windrider Rave is designed to achieve spectacular performance by lifting its hulls clear of the water, dramatically reducing drag. This unique capability allows the Rave to reach speeds up to 1.75 times the wind speed when flying. Sailors describe the experience of foiling on a Rave as "a blast" and "exhilarating," offering a distinct sensation compared to traditional displacement sailing. The boat features a T-foil assisted system with dual differential wands, managed from the cockpit, which aids in stability and control during flight. Steering is often accomplished with Windrider's signature foot pedals, enabling hands-free control, a feature designed to enhance the sailing experience.

Despite its advanced nature, the Rave was intended to be relatively easy to handle, appealing to a broad range of sailors. Its fractional sloop rig, combined with a lightweight displacement of 400 lbs and 195 sq ft of sail area, allows it to perform well in various conditions, including light winds. However, some owners note that the Rave can be complex, with numerous lines and controls, suggesting a learning curve for those new to foiling. A design characteristic that some owners have pointed out is the inability to easily lower or reef the main, which can make slowing down challenging in certain conditions. Earlier versions of the foils reportedly had issues with cavitation at high speeds, and some instances of foils breaking under extreme conditions have been noted.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its design as a high-performance, open-cockpit trimaran, the Windrider Rave does not feature enclosed accommodations or significant interior headroom. Instead, the focus is on a functional and relatively spacious deck and cockpit layout designed for active sailing. The center hull of the Rave typically incorporates two cockpits, providing ample space for the skipper and a crew member. The foils are raised and lowered directly from the cockpit, centralizing control for the sailor. While minimal in terms of traditional "accommodations," the design prioritizes ergonomic comfort for sailing, with owner reviews often highlighting the spaciousness of the cockpit for an open boat. A cockpit cover is a common accessory, used to protect the interior when the boat is not in use. The durable roto-molded polyethylene construction of the hull and deck ensures a low-maintenance and robust platform, typical of Windrider's commitment to resilient watercraft.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Windrider Rave for its unique and thrilling sailing experience, particularly its ability to foil and achieve high speeds. Many appreciate the durable polyethylene construction, which offers a sense of ruggedness and lower maintenance compared to composite boats. The Rave appeals to sailors seeking a serious high-performance boat that stands apart from more conventional recreational craft.

However, the Rave's specialized nature comes with its own set of considerations. Some owners mention the complexity involved with the multiple lines and controls required for managing the hydrofoil system. A recurring point of discussion is the difficulty in slowing down or depowering, especially in strong winds, due to the main's design. While intended to be user-friendly, the transition to foiling can present challenges, and instances of foils experiencing cavitation at high speeds or even breaking under extreme stress have been reported. Despite these points, the Windrider Rave generally garners a passionate following, with owners often noting the difficulty in finding available models on the used market, indicative of its unique appeal and value within the sailing community.