On 3 December 2025, Gitana unveiled the new Maxi Edmond de Rothschild in Lorient, Brittany, marking an exciting moment for Ariane de Rothschild and the Gitana racing team. This 32-metre trimaran, designed by Gitana/Verdier, showcases a distinctive silhouette and innovative design features, including revolutionary appendages that promise enhanced performance.
The new Maxi Edmond de Rothschild is the 28th addition to the Gitana fleet, which will celebrate its 150th anniversary soon. With over 200,000 nautical miles of experience from its predecessor, Gitana 17, the team has continued its commitment to innovation in offshore racing, now pushing the limits of offshore flight.
Ariane de Rothschild has long believed in the potential of offshore flying boats, a vision that led to the creation of Gitana 17, the first large oceanic multihull capable of flying. The new design embodies the spirit of innovation and risk, crucial to Gitana’s history—an ethos that Ariane and her family uphold today.
Key innovations include Y-foils inspired by America’s Cup monohulls that promise improved lift and dynamic trimming capabilities, marking a significant advancement in trimaran design. Furthermore, the new boat features rudders with U-shaped geometry to withstand cavitation and a large centreboard, which differs substantially from previous designs.
Gitana has invested over 200,000 hours into the construction of this new craft, with a focus on precision and sophistication at every stage. The production involved more than 200 specialists, delivering a complex vehicle equipped with cutting-edge technology akin to aerospace and Formula 1.
Initial testing suggests improvements in speed by 10 to 15%, with the ultimate goal being consistent high flight above the waves, even in challenging conditions. Skipper Charles Caudrelier has ambitious plans, aiming for speeds approaching 40 knots.
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