Brittany once again took center stage at METSTRADE, the world’s leading marine technology trade show, showcasing its cutting-edge foiling innovations. Supported by Bretagne Next, several Breton companies presented their groundbreaking solutions at the Foiling Technology Pavilion, reinforcing the region’s reputation as a pioneer in sustainable maritime mobility.
Brittany: Europe’s Foiling Powerhouse
From the legacy of sailing legend Éric Tabarly to today’s innovative projects, Brittany has established itself as a hub for foiling technology. Three Breton companies stood out at this year’s event:
- CDK Technologies (Lorient), a specialist in high-performance composite parts.
- Pixel sur Mer (Brest), whose Exocet system was nominated for the DAME Awards 2025 for its advancements in flight instrumentation and data management.
- Foil & Co (Saint-Brieuc), Europe’s leading manufacturer of recreational foils and a key player in offshore racing.
These companies exemplify Brittany’s ability to innovate across sailing, leisure boating, and maritime transport.
Concrete Projects for Greener, Faster Sailing
Brittany’s foiling sector is turning vision into reality with several flagship projects:
- Foil Infinity: Recyclable, retractable foils that cut carbon footprints by 30%.
- SEAir: An autonomous vessel capable of traveling 740 km at 83 km/h, powered by retractable hydrofoils and electric propulsion.
- MerConcept and VPLP Design: High-speed, energy-efficient ferries that consume 40% less energy.
- K-Challenge Lab: A hydrogen-powered foiling catamaran, serving as the official support boat for the French team in the America’s Cup.
- Crazy Lobster: A recycled-wood foil, manufactured in Saint-Brieuc, for eco-friendly sailing.
These innovations demonstrate how foiling can revolutionize navigation by combining performance with sustainability.
International Agreement to Accelerate Change
A memorandum of understanding was signed between Bretagne Sailing Valley® and The Foiling Organization to strengthen global cooperation, facilitate technology transfers, and promote foiling in maritime mobility. This agreement positions Brittany as a leader in the ecological transition at sea.
Conferences Highlighting Breton Expertise
Throughout the show, Breton experts led discussions on key topics:
- Industrializing foiling: How can this niche technology reach the mainstream market?
- Performance in racing: How are Breton innovations shaping competitive sailing?
- The future of foiling boats: What’s next for maritime transport and leisure boating?
Brittany also made its mark at the Yacht Racing Forum, where industry leaders like MerConcept, the IMOCA Class, and SEA.AI shared insights on AI, composite materials, and corporate social responsibility.
Bretagne Sailing Valley®: A Unique Ecosystem for the Sea
With over 250 industry players and 200 sailing projects, Bretagne Sailing Valley® is a hotbed of innovation. Its success is built on three pillars:
- Innovation: Developing solutions for the future of sailing.
- Sustainability: Reducing the environmental impact of maritime activities.
- Knowledge sharing: Training and supporting industry professionals.
Why This Matters for Coastal Communities
These technological advancements aren’t just for elite racing—they pave the way for more sustainable solutions in leisure boating, maritime transport, and even fishing. Brittany’s expertise and commitment show how performance and ocean conservation can go hand in hand.