The Beneteau Figaro 3 is the world’s first production foiling offshore yacht and the core training platform of IonianMode Racing. Designed by VPLP, it combines lightweight construction, asymmetrical foils, twin rudders, and a powerful sail plan to deliver exceptional stability, speed, and responsiveness. The boat demands precise trim, clean maneuvers, and disciplined decision-making — giving immediate feedback and accelerating sailor development. With a cockpit built for racing, offshore-ready systems, and a proven record in the Solitaire du Figaro, the Figaro 3 is the ideal yacht for high-performance, coastal, and offshore training in real conditions.
Why the Figaro 3 Is the Ultimate Training Platform
1. Demands precision
You cannot hide poor technique — the boat exposes it immediately.
2. Accelerates improvement
Clean trim = instant speed. Bad trim = instant drop.
You learn fast.
3. Teaches modern offshore sailing
Foils, twin rudders, efficient hull design — this is the future of offshore racing.
4. Consistent speed = consistent performance
You develop repeatability — the most important skill in racing.
5. Proven elite background
This is the boat of the Solitaire du Figaro, the world’s hardest one-design offshore race.
If you can sail a Figaro 3 well, you can sail anything.
What You Learn on This Yacht
Trim accuracy
Boat balance & stability
Foil engagement & modes
Gybing & tacking with speed retention
Sail changes under pressure
Emergency recoveries
Advanced boat handling
Heavy weather control
Coastal & offshore decision-making
Performance data interpretation
SAILS – Performance-Driven Sail Plan
The Figaro 3 carries a powerful, offshore-oriented sail plan designed for speed and control across every wind angle. Upwind, the combination of a full-batten mainsail with interchangeable J2 and J3 headsails provides stability, pointing ability, and immediate acceleration out of maneuvers. Downwind, the A2 and A4 asymmetric spinnakers deliver high-speed performance and controlled planing, supported by the yacht’s twin-rudder stability. Every sail change, reef, and mode transition teaches precise handling under pressure — essential skills for both coastal and offshore racing.
🔵 RIGGING – High Load, High Control
The Figaro 3’s rig is engineered for offshore reliability and pure performance. The deck layout features a powerful mainsheet system, adjustable backstay, efficient headsail controls, and clean line routing that allows quick, low-loss maneuvers. Harken winches and hardware are positioned for both solo/duo racing and full crew training, giving sailors full control of trim, load, and response at all times. The carbon bowsprit, twin rudders, and deep keel create a balanced, highly responsive platform that demands accuracy and rewards clean technique.
🔵 ELECTRONICS – Data That Drives Improvement
The yacht is equipped with a modern navigation and performance package, including speed, depth, and wind sensors, GPS, chartplotter, and autopilot calibrated for offshore modes. Sailors train to interpret real-time performance numbers, VMG targets, heel angle, and speed trends — developing the ability to make tactical and trim decisions based on data, not assumptions. Optional onboard camera and data logging allow detailed post-sailing debriefs for technique improvement and race preparation.
🔵 SAFETY EQUIPMENT – Offshore Ready
The Figaro 3 is fitted with all required offshore safety equipment, including lifejackets, harnesses, jackstays, VHF communication, navigation lights, flares, fire extinguishers, first aid kit, and emergency steering capability. The yacht’s construction includes structural reinforcements, buoyancy compartments, twin rudders for control in heavy weather, and a deep keel for exceptional righting moment. Safety briefings and procedures are integrated into every training day, ensuring all sailors can operate confidently in both coastal and offshore conditions.
