The Decision 35 (D35) is a high-performance sailing boat designed for competitive racing. It was created by Swiss boat designer Christian Favre and first launched in 2003. The D35 is specifically designed for the Decision 35 class, which is a one-design multihull racing class.
The D35 is a catamaran, meaning it has two hulls connected by a central structure. It measures 10.8 meters (35 feet) in length and 6.8 meters (22 feet) in width. The boat is constructed using lightweight materials such as carbon fiber, which allows it to be fast and agile on the water.
One of the key features of the D35 is its ability to foil. Foiling is a technique where the boat's hulls are lifted out of the water, reducing drag and increasing speed. The D35 is equipped with hydrofoils, which are underwater wings that generate lift and allow the boat to "fly" above the water. This feature makes the D35 one of the fastest sailing boats in its class.
The D35 is crewed by a team of experienced sailors, typically consisting of a helmsman, a tactician, and several crew members. The boat requires skilled handling and coordination to maximize its performance on the racecourse.
The D35 class is known for its competitive racing circuit, with events held primarily in Switzerland on Lake Geneva. The boats often compete in short-course races, where they navigate around buoys and complete multiple laps. The D35 class attracts top sailors from around the world, and the racing is known for its intensity and close competition.
Overall, the Decision 35 sailing boat is a high-performance catamaran designed for competitive racing. Its lightweight construction, foiling capabilities, and skilled crew make it a formidable contender on the racecourse.