You read that right. The new MODX 70 has twin, side by side inflatable wing sails that deflate into park avenue style booms when furled. There are no fixed masts.
With a press of a button the high-capacity compressor blows the sails up into ridgid foils that stand erect on their own. The sails can be partially inflated in a reefed configuration on breezy days or you can sail with just one sail inflated if so desired.
While the concept of side by side instead of fore and aft rigs on articulated booms has been around for a while and used by American designer Chris White on some of his cruising cats, but the addition of inflatable wing sails takes this innovative idea to a new almost revolutionary level.
The sailing rig combined with the advanced, lightweight composite VPLP-designed hulls will be very quick and can sail at the speed of the wind in the lower ranges. According to the builder, in 10 knots, the boat will sail at 10 knots. In 15 knots, it can make 14 and in 20 knots it will sail up to 18.
In order to make the MODX 70 carbon neutral, the builders, who unsurprisingly are French, have gone with solar-electric propulsion for times when you need to motor. The giant solar array and lithium battery bank give the 70 a 110-mile range at 5 knots.
So, the MODX 70 is a technical marvel. It is also a commodious and luxurious cruising boat capable of crossing oceans. The accommodation plan shows a huge saloon with the helm forward and a 36-foot wide cockpit aft. The windows all around provide panoramic views while the windows forward have glass panels that lift to give access to the foredeck.
There are four double cabins each with a head and shower so four couples or a family of five will have plenty of private space. Plus, there are crew quarters.
The MODX 70 debuted at the Multihull Show at La Grande Motte, France, last month to great acclaim and promises to change the way we think of ingenious sailing technology and sustainable cruising.
