WHAT DEFINES A HIGH-PERFORMANCE
SAILING MULTIHULL
A high-performance multihull is not defined by peak speed alone. True performance is the result of low displacement, efficient hydrodynamics, optimized structures, and a balanced, powerful rig working as one system.
Across the Independent Catamaran range, this philosophy is expressed through three different platforms:
IC36 established the technical foundation of the brand: lightweight construction, direct helm feedback, minimal resistance, and high average speeds.
AION evolves this DNA into a modern performance cruiser, offering greater autonomy, wider usability, and more advanced system integration without sacrificing sailing character.
KAIROS represents the pure performance edge of IC: a trimaran developed for maximum efficiency, speed potential, and an uncompromisingly athletic sailing profile.
What unites them:
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low displacement and high structural efficiency
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slender hulls optimized for minimal drag
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high righting moment with controlled mass distribution
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efficient appendages and clean aerodynamics
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immediate response to trim and helm input
The objective is not headline numbers, but higher average speeds, better upwind angles, wider weather windows, and a consistently engaging sailing experience.
WHAT DEFINES A HIGH-PERFORMANCE SAILING MULTIHULL
PERFORMANCE IS NOT A NUMBER
Peak speed is easy to advertise.
Sustained performance is harder to achieve.
True high-performance sailing multihulls are measured by:
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average speed over distance
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controllability in changing conditions
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reduced fatigue for crew and structure
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predictability at sea
Performance that only exists in perfect conditions or on paper is irrelevant offshore.
WHAT DEFINES A HIGH-PERFORMANCE SAILING MULTIHULL
BALANCE — THE FOUNDATION OF CONTROL
Balance is the primary characteristic of a high-performance multihull.
It is achieved through:
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correct hull proportions
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controlled displacement
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centralised weight distribution
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sail plan matched to hull geometry
A balanced multihull responds progressively, remains predictable and allows the helmsman to maintain control without constant correction.
Without balance, speed becomes stress.
WHAT DEFINES A HIGH-PERFORMANCE SAILING MULTIHULL
EFFICIENCY — PERFORMANCE WITHOUT FORCE
Efficiency is not about maximum output.
It is about achieving performance with minimal resistance and minimal energy loss.
In sailing multihulls, efficiency comes from:
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lightweight structures
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clean hydrodynamic shapes
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reduced wetted surface
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simplified systems
Efficient boats sail faster for longer, with less effort and lower mechanical loads.
WHAT DEFINES A HIGH-PERFORMANCE SAILING MULTIHULL
CONTROL — THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SPEED AND USABILITY
Control defines whether performance is usable or theoretical.
A high-performance sailing multihull must:
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provide clear feedback to the helmsman
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remain stable as conditions change
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allow early and precise sail adjustments
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inspire confidence rather than demand constant attention
Control is what allows owners to exploit performance safely and consistently.
WHAT DEFINES A HIGH-PERFORMANCE SAILING MULTIHULL
LIGHTWEIGHT — A CONSEQUENCE, NOT A GOAL
Lightweight construction is often misunderstood.
Reducing weight alone does not create performance.
Reducing unnecessary weight does.
High-performance multihulls focus on:
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structural efficiency rather than minimum weight
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strength where loads exist
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simplicity where complexity adds no value
Lightweight is the result of discipline, not compromise.
