C-8 glides in

The Candela C-8 electric hydrofoil made its New Zealand debut at the Auckland Boat Show, demonstrating hydrofoiling technology can be applied to energy-efficient powerboating.

10 March 2025

The Candela C-8, an electric hydrofoiling boat, made its New Zealand debut at the Auckland Boat Show, 6 to 9 March 2025.

New Zealand has been a centre for hydrofoil innovation, with developments in the America’s Cup and a strong sailing culture focused on efficiency and performance.

The arrival of the Candela C-8 introduces hydrofoiling technology to electric powerboating, using foils to lift above the water, reducing drag, energy use and noise.

Distributed in New Zealand by Carbon Yachts, the exclusive dealer for Candela Boats in Australia and New Zealand, the C-8 is the first serially produced electric hydrofoil boat, with more than 70 vessels delivered worldwide.

Dominic Lowe, who leads Carbon Yachts New Zealand and has a background in sailing, says: “Sailing has always been about more than just movement – it’s about feeling truly connected to the water, in tune with the wind and the sea. The Candela C-8 captures that same sensation in a powerboat.”

Hydrofoiling technology allows the Candela C-8 to glide above the water.

The Candela C-8 makes its New Zealand debut at the Auckland Boat Show 2025.

Positioned at the entry to the Auckland show, the C-8 is among the first vessels visitors will see.

Carbon Yachts introduces the Candela C-8 to the New Zealand market.

More than 70 Candela C-8 vessels have been delivered worldwide.

Dominic Lowe describes the Candela C-8 as a powerboating experience unlike any other.

The C-8 is designed to reduce drag, energy consumption and noise.

Candela’s founder and chief executive Gustav Hasselskog is attending the 2025 Auckland Boat Show.

The Candela C-8 features a hydrofoil system that lifts the hull above the water.

Electric propulsion and hydrofoils combine for an efficient and quiet ride.

The C-8 is among the first serially produced electric hydrofoil boats.

The Candela C-8’s electric drivetrain eliminates engine noise and emissions.

Lowe continues, “When you’re flying above the surface on the hydrofoils, there’s no engine noise, no hull slamming, no resistance – just pure silence and an effortless glide.

“It’s a completely new way to experience boating, and once you’ve tried it, there’s no going back.”

Beyond leisure boating, Candela’s hydrofoil technology is also being adopted for commercial use in New Zealand, with an order placed for a Candela P-12 electric ferry.

To mark the occasion, Candela founder and chief executive Gustav Hasselskog will attend the Auckland Boat Show.

The Candela C-8 will remain on display at the Viaduct Events Centre entrance throughout the event.

candela.com
carbonyachts.com.au