Here are some of the fastest sailboats on the market today:

• L’Hydroptère. L’Hydroptère is a big ol hydrofoil tri. The top speed that this sailboat can achieve is upwards of 47 knots. This ride will hold it’s own in the mile stretch with speeds approaching 42 knots. That is right up there with what wind surfers can achieve. Sure, it is not the 200 knots that a speedboat can do, but this won’t cost you a small mortgage to fill up at the pump.
• Groupama 3. The Groupama 3, by Frank Cammas, holds two records. The first record is the fastest 24-hour record. The Groupama 3 managed a staggering 794 nautical miles in a mere 24-hour period. The average speed for this trip was 33.08 knots. The second record is making the trek from Ambrose Light to Lizard Point. The Groupama 3 managed this trip in 4 days 3 hours 57 minutes. The Groupama 3 has attempted an around the world trip as well. A cracked pontoon put this trip to an end. Groupama 3 will see some strength training and try this trip yet again.
• Mari-Cha IV. Monohulls have a bit to prove as well. Robert Miller took the Mari-Cha IV on a cross Atlantic trip. This feat took all of 6 days 17 hours 52 minutes. The Mari-Cha IV was able to do this because of its construction. The Mari-Cha IV is mainly composed of carbon fiber. This brings this 140-foot boat to a staggering weight of only 55 tons.
• Orange II. So, you want around the world records? How about a record for not having to stop during your trip around the world? The Orange II was able to pull off just this record. The Orange II went around the world in 50 days and never had to stop for fuel. Bet there were no kids on this trip asking if they were there yet.
• IDEC. While the Orange II was able to go around the world with a crew, the IDEC did this with one man. Francis Joyon piloted the IDEC around the world in a matter of 57 days. Think about that for just a moment. Not only did he get around the world on a sailboat in 57 days, but he also did it with nobody to yell at.

The next time you think of speed on the water, keep these wind powered rides in mind. You will most likely need some special boat insurance when you attempt to break the 57-day around the world record. You may also want a teddy bear to talk to while you are on the water.

Photo via clementpetit2

Beating

Beating is the idea of staying on the wind. You need to learn to recognize which way the wind is blowing just by feel. In the same way that recognizing the road conditions in a car becomes second nature to the driver, so feeling the wind becomes second nature to the sail boat racer.

Transitions

Transitions include both tacking and jibing. Transitions does not refer to roll tacks, but really has more to do with the basic maneuvers.

Close Sailing

You need to be able to sail close to other boats confidently and without being nervous. You literally need to be able to get within a few centimeters from another boat without hitting the boat, and without being afraid of hitting the boat.

Consistent Starting

A bad start will keep you from winning a sail boat race every time. You need plenty of practice getting away from the “gate” at a consistent speed and rate of acceleration, and being able to catch the wind as soon as possible.

Mark Roundings

Roundings are key, as well. Roundings are where you will make some of the most consinstent gains on your opponents, so being able to make your roundings effectively is one of your most important tools.

Reaching and Running

These two techniques will give you a serious edge. If you can master them, you’ll be ready to take full advantage of an opponent’s weak spots.

You’ll notice that the important techniques rely nearly as much on the speed of your sailboat as they do the handling of your sailboat. Raw speed does very little for you if you can’t get the boat positioned effectively.

Finally, make sure your boat insurance is up to date before you race your boat. You want to make sure your investment is secure in case something bad happens during a race.

Photo via dragonseye