The new Italian Metis 45 is in development, reportedly featuring a design that eliminates the need for expensive control systems.
This Italian-designed and built foiling offshore racer is intended to fill the big gulf between Class 40s and IMOCA 60s.
Full details have not yet been released, but we’re told the boat will be able to achieve full foiling on offshore courses without the need for complex and expensive active control systems. Instead, adjustable foils on each side of the keel bulb are used to control flight.
The boat is designed to accommodate crews of two to five people, plus an onboard reporter. Deck layout follows a similar pattern to those of recent IMOCAs and Class 40s, with a fully enclosed cockpit with large transparent panels to maximise visibility of sails and the horizon.
French teams are often thought of as being dominant in this space, but the Metis 45 comes from an Italian yard with impeccable credentials.
For example, it built the Guelfi D’Angeli-designed Musa 40 scow bow Class 40 that propelled Ambrogio Beccaria to victory in the 2022 Normandy Channel Race and Transat Jacques Vabre, as well as last year’s Transat CIC single-handed race from Lorient to New York.
Article continues below…
Metis 45 Specifications:
Hull length: 13.7m 45ft 0in
Beam: 4.5m 14ft 8in
Draught: 3.5m 11ft 6in
Displacement: 4,000kg 8,800lb
Contact details: sangiorgiomarine.com
If you enjoyed this….
Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams.Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.
Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.
The post Metis 45 first look: Italian foiler for simplifying offshore foiling races appeared first on Yachting World.
