Reaching strakes

Some of the new Farr Open 60s have a new addition on their bows

In an attempt to reduce bow burying when high speed reaching and running, several of the new generation Farr-designed IMOCA Open 60s have been fitted with a 'strake' along their topsides, just above the waterline towards the bow. These are designed to produce dynamic lift.

"The common application of strakes on powerboats are a similar reference although they are a bit more easy to position because they work exclusively in an upright orientation (rather than healed)," comments Farr Yacht Design's Patrick Shaughnessy.

While these have been fitted to PRB, Michel Desjoyeaux has not yet installed them on Foncia and we wait to see whether they will appear on Delta Dore and Offshore Challenges' soon to be rechristened BT boat for Seb Josse (the former Estrella Damm).