Performance Across the Gunboat Range
One philosophy, distinct expressions
At Gunboat, performance is neither an isolated figure nor a top speed achieved in ideal conditions. It is a global philosophy, an offshore racing mindset, applied consistently across every model in the range. From the Gunboat 68 to the Gunboat 80 Fusion, each yacht is designed to sail more often under canvas, more efficiently, and with constant control of loads and motion.
True performance begins in light air
Contrary to common belief, the most demanding form of performance does not reveal itself only when the breeze fills in. It becomes evident when a yacht sails while others must rely on their engines. This ability lies at the very heart of Gunboat DNA.
The Gunboat 68 illustrates this philosophy clearly. A light platform, slender hulls, and an optimised sail plan allow her to glide early in light conditions, while remaining intuitive and easy to handle. The Gunboat 72, with her longer waterline and overall balance, takes this ability even further, building apparent wind quickly and sustaining high average speeds across a wide range of conditions.
In these subtle wind ranges, everything matters. Displacement, wetted surface, appendage geometry, and the yacht’s capacity to convert the slightest airflow into effective drive.
Lightness, finesse, and intelligent shapes
Across the entire range, Gunboat performance is built on fundamentals that have shaped an entire category. First, lightness. Less mass means less drag and an immediate response to every puff. This structural approach benefits the Gunboat 68 as much as the larger yachts.
Hull finesse and carefully engineered daggerboards and rudders form another cornerstone. These appendages provide efficient lateral resistance, allow the yacht to sail higher upwind, tighten angles, and increase speed without sacrificing control. On the Gunboat 72, this balance delivers fluid, confidence inspiring sailing over long distances. On the Gunboat 80, it unlocks a level of performance directly inspired by racing heritage, while preserving remarkable stability.
The sail plan: coherence and real efficiency
Every Gunboat is designed around a coherent sail plan focused on real world efficiency. Sail area distribution, mast position, boom height, and centre of effort are all carefully studied to maximise performance while keeping manoeuvres simple and intuitive.
Generous, easily managed headsails enable a wide range of wind angles and strengths to be exploited. This philosophy is shared from the Gunboat 68 through to the Gunboat 80, ensuring performance that is progressive, readable, and controlled, even as conditions evolve quickly.
Gunboat 80 and Gunboat 80 Fusion: two interpretations of performance
The Gunboat 80 offers a very direct expression of performance. A platform designed for speed, precision, and intensity, capable of revealing its full potential both offshore and during high energy sailing. Structure, sail plan, and appendages are optimised to turn every knot of wind into forward motion.
The Gunboat 80 Fusion presents a more expansive interpretation of performance. It retains the performance fundamentals that define the range, while introducing a greater emphasis on distance, continuity, and comfort during fast passages. Here, performance expands into a complete experience, where speed, distance, and composure become inseparable.
A shared signature, whatever the model
From the Gunboat 68 to the Gunboat 80 Fusion, Gunboat performance is never demonstrative. It is elegant, quiet, almost self evident. It can be read in a bow that lifts and breathes, in a taut wake, in a yacht that glides when the sea appears motionless.
This demanding vision, shaped by engineering expertise and real experience at sea, defines the Gunboat DNA. Fast sailing. Full living. Uncompromising performance, expressed with precision across every model, for sailors who know that true speed is the one you feel, day after day.