Lifting engineering and fluid dynamics
Guillaume Verdier has established itself as one of the most influential naval architecture firms in the world, redefining speed standards on water. Its signature is based on a rigorous mathematical approach, where each hull is designed to minimize drag while maximizing power. Specializing in fluid flow and complex structure management, the firm works on the most prestigious projects, from transatlantic records to the America's Cup, placing the physics of flight at the heart of its design philosophy.
Vision & Philosophy: Performance through hydrodynamic analysis
Since its inception, Guillaume Verdier has prioritized a methodology based on cutting-edge simulation tools, such as CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and proprietary VPP (Velocity Prediction Program). Its expertise lies in designing units where mass optimization is pushed to the extreme to promote take-off and steady flight on foils.
Whether for giant multihulls or IMOCA class monohulls, the firm's philosophy is rooted in balancing righting moment and structural lightness. This pursuit of pure efficiency leads to bold architectural choices, where hull geometry is inseparable from foil dynamics. For Guillaume Verdier, composite design is not just about strength; it must allow controlled flexibility in the structure to absorb dynamic loads encountered at high speeds.
System and digital integration: The boat as a computational unit
Organizing energy flows, routing data buses and integrating flight computers are structural elements of the design. For the naval architect, nautical performance now depends on the symbiosis between hydrodynamics and onboard intelligence. Telemetry becomes the essential validation tool: data collected at sea feeds feedback loops to refine system reliability and validate initial simulation models.
Iconic projects and benchmark achievements
The firm has designed or co-designed vessels that have shaped the history of maritime innovation :
- Comanche (100 feet): The monohull that holds all records, designed for raw power and exceptional form stability.
- Macif Santé Prévoyance (IMOCA): Verdier's winning design, the benchmark in ergonomics and foil efficiency.
- Emirates Team New Zealand (America's Cup): Major contribution to the development of AC75s, the flying monohulls of the America's Cup.
- Ultim SVR-Lazartigue: Collaboration on the aerodynamic and hydrodynamic design of this latest-generation trimaran.
- Gitana 17 (Maxi Edmond de Rothschild): Pioneer of offshore flight in both crewed and solo configurations.
