The P1 Powerboats

All Powerboat P1 boats are twin-engined monohull craft, but there are distinct differences between the Evolution and SuperSport classes. The closed-canopy Evolution class boats are more specialised and more powerful prototype hulls, with bigger engines and speeds in excess of 100mph. The open-topped SuperSport class boats have more in common with production designs that you can buy, but they’re very powerful and fast, with an 85mph top speed.

Power-to-weight ratio rule
Both the Evolution and SuperSport classes are governed by a power-to-weight ratio rule to ensure close competition. More powerful boats have to be heavier making them struggle under acceleration and while cornering buoys, while smaller-engined boats are lighter and more manoeuvrable. Boats in both Evolution and SuperSport are required to have a minimum crew of two – one to steer the boat and one to control the throttles. Although this might seem lazy to car drivers, both roles are equally demanding.

Pilot and Throttle-person
The pilot has to steer the boat through unpredictable waves, keeping an eye out for rival boats around them and the hard-to-spot buoys. The throttle-person has to keep blipping the engine to avoid over-revving it as the boat and propeller crashes in and out of the waves. He also keeps an eye on the engine temperature and oil pressure dials, while acting as a second set of eyes for the buoys and rival boats. You can see why some crews add a third navigator. He’s certainly not just there for the ride…!

EVOLUTION CLASS

SUPERSPORT CLASS

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