International Switch Class Launches Event Charter Programme

The International Switch Class is pleased to launch its event charter programme, designed primarily to support Switch sailors in competing more easily at international and distant events.

Although a complete Switch with trolleys and extras fits into a box that is only 1.2 cubic metres, by providing charter platforms at key venues, the programme removes the need to transport the hull and beams which are the largest components of the boat. This makes international competition more accessible, more affordable, and more environmentally sustainable.

Any Switch owner can charter the “base boat” platform and bring their own, mast, sails, foils, boom and parts (a specially designed wheely-bag is available that can be easily shipped or transported within most passenger airline regulations) thus saving considerable transport / charter costs and time this is also environmentally better moving a complete boat between continents or large distances.

Charter platforms (and a limited quantity of complete boats) will be available at major events, including at Foiling Week in Malcesine and the 2026 Switch Globals in Genoa, plus there will be further opportunities to be announced shortly. Please see Appendix 1 for details on what is included in the charter platform.

While the programme is built to support existing Switch sailors, it also creates a clear pathway for new sailors to experience the class through charter access – giving those from other classes the opportunity to get a taste of what this class has to offer.

This approach reflects a core principle of the Switch Class: enabling high-performance foiling competition that is globally accessible, cost-conscious, and environmentally responsible. This is all made possible by the dismantlable design of the boat and the ability to transport a large number of boats in regular trailers, vans, containers and other small spaces.

Looking ahead, the International Switch Class is also developing a series of Special Events, designed to showcase the versatility and excitement of the platform beyond traditional fleet racing. These events are expected to include a range of innovative and spectator-friendly formats such as sprint racing, knock-out competitions, relay racing, long-distance challenges, speed-focused and master events. The charter fleet will also be used to support special events and initiatives, helping to further develop the class and expand participation globally.

Further details will be released soon as the class continues to expand its global events programme and explore new ways to deliver dynamic, accessible, and engaging foiling competition.

For more information, please contact info@theswitchclass.com.

Appendix 1

 

Base Boat

The Base Boat provides the core platform of the Switch boat without foils or rig. Included components:

• Hull with console

• Cross beams

• Carbon console with fittings

• Spreader and prodder

• EPE foam to fit in trampolines

• Boat trolley

• Boat cover

• Shared side trolley

• Rudder pintle

• Control lines and shock cord and spliced on lines

• All blocks that are attached to hull

 

What you must bring

Required equipment to be supplied by the charterer:

• Foils, push rod and bellcrank and locking pin.

• Ride height adjustment system

• Bow sprit and bolt

• Push rods, pins and nuts, ride height barrel and fastenings

• Wand, attachment bolts and nuts

• Trampolines and lashings

• Mast sections (3), shrouds , threaded eyes and forestay loop

• Fitted out Boom with vang strap, mainsheet straps, gooseneck pin, vang lever

• Sail, battens, cams and clew strap

• Mainsheet and all mainsheet blocks ,ride height lines, floating cunningham and vang lines and blocks (ex control lines and spliced on lines)

• Boat breaker

NB: other items may be supplied upon request.