The 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 boats have more in common with production designs that you can buy, but they’re very powerful and fast, with an 85mph top speed.

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.

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…!