VARA® Foil Pontoon Hydrofoil Reviews

Discover the VARA® Foil Pontoon Hydrofoil: Boost speed by 25%, enhance fuel efficiency, and enjoy a smoother ride. Read reviews and benefits.

Pontoon boats are cherished for their stability, spaciousness, and versatility, making them a favorite for leisurely cruises, watersports, and family outings. However, traditional pontoon designs often sacrifice speed and fuel efficiency for comfort. The VARA® Foil Pontoon Hydrofoil, developed by Pontoon Hydrofoil Applications (PHA, Inc.), addresses these limitations, offering a transformative upgrade that enhances speed, fuel economy, and ride quality. This article explores the VARA® Foil’s features, benefits, customer experiences, and technical advantages, providing a comprehensive guide for pontoon and tritoon owners considering this innovative accessory.

What is the VARA® Foil Pontoon Hydrofoil?

The VARA® Foil is a custom-built hydrofoil system designed specifically for pontoon, tritoon, and power catamaran boats. Unlike traditional “one-size-fits-all” fin or skeg designs, the VARA® Foil is tailored to the specifications of each boat, ensuring optimal performance. It integrates three key components: the VARA® Foil, VARA® Strut, and VARA® Plate, which work together to reduce drag, increase lift, and improve stability. The system is adjustable, removable, and easy to install, making it a practical upgrade for both new and used boats.

Key Features of the VARA® Foil

• Custom-Built Design: Tailored to the exact measurements of your pontoon or tritoon, ensuring a perfect fit and maximum performance.
• 25% Speed Gain Guarantee: PHA, Inc. guarantees a minimum 25% increase in top speed, with many users reporting over 32% improvement.
• Adjustable Pitch Control: The patented VARA® Plate allows real-time pitch adjustments using the boat’s trim/tilt switch, optimizing ride and handling.
• Easy Installation: The system can be installed in 2-3 hours using standard tools, whether in water, on a trailer, or on a lift.
• No Permanent Modifications: Unlike competitors, the VARA® Foil requires no adhesive, epoxy, or destructive hull alterations.
• Robust Construction: Features axial-loaded, patent-pending VARA® Strut designs for durability and high load capacity.
• Made in the USA: Proudly manufactured with high-quality materials, offering a 10% discount for U.S. military personnel and veterans.

Components of the VARA® Foil System

• VARA® Foil: The primary hydrofoil component that reduces drag and increases lift, enabling faster speeds and better fuel efficiency.
• VARA® Strut: A robust, V-shaped strut that transfers loads efficiently, designed for high durability without shear pins.
• VARA® Plate: An adjustable pitch control mechanism that allows users to fine-tune the boat’s attitude with a simple trim/tilt switch adjustment.
• VARA® Skin: A lightweight, non-corrosive underskinning option weighing 13 pounds, offering an alternative to traditional aluminum sheets.

Benefits of the VARA® Foil

The VARA® Foil delivers a range of performance enhancements that make it a standout choice for pontoon owners. Below are the key benefits, supported by user testimonials and technical data.

1. Significant Speed Increases

The VARA® Foil dramatically boosts pontoon and tritoon speeds by reducing drag and enabling the boat to plane more efficiently. Customer reviews highlight substantial speed gains:

• Patrick B. (Starcraft 22 Tritoon): Increased from 31 mph to 40 mph after fine-tuning the center of gravity placement.
• Robert & Candy H. (Sanpan 22, 130hp): Saw their boat’s speed rise from 25 mph to 35 mph.
• James and Ashley B. (2022 Suntracker 20′, 90hp): Achieved 30 mph with a loaded boat, up from 21 mph, with potential for 35 mph with a prop change.
• Scott R. (Suncatcher 20′, 70hp Evinrude): Boosted speed from 19 mph to 30 mph, hitting the rev limiter.
• Ben L. (2016 Misty Harbor 225, 140hp): Reached 37.2 mph without a prop change, expecting 40+ mph with a new 4-blade prop.

These testimonials align with PHA’s 25% speed gain guarantee, with many users exceeding this benchmark, achieving up to 32% or more in speed improvements.

2. Enhanced Fuel Efficiency

By reducing drag and allowing the boat to operate at lower RPMs, the VARA® Foil significantly improves fuel economy. Users report:

• James and Ashley B.: Reduced fuel consumption by 2.5 gallons per hour (gph) at wide-open throttle (WOT), achieving 9 mph faster. At a cruising speed of -Dry Ride**: The hydrofoil lifts the boat higher, reducing spray and providing a drier experience.
• Quieter Operation: Lower engine noise due to reduced RPMs and less hull drag.
• Extended Engine Life: Decreased engine loads lead to less wear and tear, extending the lifespan of the motor.

3. Smoother and More Stable Ride

The VARA® Foil enhances ride quality by stabilizing the boat and dampening waves, making it ideal for rough water conditions. Users describe the experience as transformative:

• Dean & Carol M. (Bennington 22’, 90hp): Called it a “Magic Carpet Ride” due to the quiet, floating sensation.
• Robert & Candy H.: Noted an “extremely dry ride” and easier navigation through chop and waves.
• James and Ashley B.: Described the ride quality in rough water as “insane” and hard to explain without experiencing it firsthand.
• Scott R.: Reported a “gliding, airborne, quiet ride” with complete control in choppy conditions.

The VARA® Plate’s adjustable pitch control allows users to fine-tune the boat’s attitude, optimizing handling for various conditions, such as wind, weight distribution, and wave patterns.

4. Easy Installation and Adjustability

The VARA® Foil is designed for user-friendly installation, requiring no special tools or permanent modifications. Most users complete the process in 2-3 hours, whether in the water, on a trailer, or on a lift. The adjustable design allows for on-the-fly tweaks:

• Patrick B.: Adjusted the center of gravity in 15 minutes on the beach, optimizing performance.
• Robert & Candy H.: Installed the system in 2 hours with PHA’s assistance.
• Ben L.: Completed a 2.5-hour installation at a sandbar, achieving immediate results.

The four-bolt design makes the system removable, and the VARA® Plate’s integration with the trim/tilt switch simplifies adjustments.

5. Environmental and Economic Benefits

The VARA® Foil’s fuel efficiency and reduced engine load contribute to a lower environmental footprint. By consuming less fuel and extending engine life, it offers a greener alternative to engine upgrades. Additionally, the system’s cost-effectiveness—priced at approximately $3,800—makes it a more affordable option than purchasing a new, higher-horsepower engine.

Customer Testimonials: Real-World Experiences

The VARA® Foil has garnered enthusiastic reviews from pontoon and tritoon owners across various boat models and engine sizes. Below is a summary of key testimonials:

These testimonials highlight the VARA® Foil’s ability to deliver consistent performance across a range of boat sizes, engine types, and operating conditions.

Comparing VARA® Foil to Competitors

The pontoon hydrofoil market includes competitors like Hydrofin, which also offers hydrofoil kits. However, the VARA® Foil stands out for several reasons:

• Custom Design vs. One-Size-Fits-All: Unlike Hydrofin’s standardized kits, the VARA® Foil is custom-built for each boat, ensuring optimal fit and performance.
• No Permanent Modifications: Hydrofin’s kits may require permanent adhesive or hull modifications, while the VARA® Foil uses a removable four-bolt system.
• Adjustable Pitch Control: The VARA® Plate’s real-time adjustability via the trim/tilt switch is unique, offering greater control than Hydrofin’s fixed foils.
• 25% Speed Guarantee: VARA® Foil’s bold performance guarantee exceeds Hydrofin’s estimated 9-12 mph speed increase.
• No Trailer Modifications: The VARA® Foil does not require removing the center trailer bunk, unlike some competitors, though Hydrofin claims only a minor bunk modification.

Hydrofin’s founder, Jason, highlights their four-foil design, five-year warranty, and swept-wing foils to prevent seaweed buildup. However, users like Ben L. chose the VARA® Foil over alternatives due to its adjustability and non-invasive installation, avoiding bulky plates that create drag.

Technical Advantages and Design

The VARA® Foil’s engineering leverages over 120 years of combined expertise from PHA’s design team. Key technical features include:

• Low-Drag, High-Lift Design: The VARA® Foil minimizes wetted surface area, reducing drag and enabling higher speeds at lower RPMs.
• Axial-Loaded Struts: The V-shaped struts distribute loads like bicycle spokes, enhancing durability without shear pins.
• VARA® Skin Underskinning: At 13 pounds, this lightweight, translucent material is stronger and less corrosive than aluminum, simplifying installation.

Performance Data

The following table summarizes typical performance improvements based on user data:

Considerations for Potential Buyers

While the VARA® Foil offers significant benefits, there are a few considerations:

• Propeller Optimization: Some users, like James and Ashley B., noted that a prop change could maximize performance, especially at higher speeds.
• Center of Gravity Adjustments: Initial setup may require fine-tuning, as seen in Patrick B.’s experience, to achieve optimal results.
• Rough Water Navigation: Users must remain vigilant for submerged obstacles like logs, as the foil’s low profile could be impacted in debris-heavy waters.
• Cost: Priced at approximately $3,800, the VARA® Foil is a significant investment, though it’s more cost-effective than engine upgrades.

Installation Process

The VARA® Foil’s installation is designed for simplicity, requiring only standard tools and 2-3 hours. The process involves:

1. Measuring the Boat: Submit your pontoon’s specifications to PHA for a custom-built kit.
2. Mounting the Foil: Attach the VARA® Foil and Strut using the four-bolt system, either in water, on a trailer, or on a lift.
3. Adjusting the VARA® Plate: Fine-tune the pitch control to optimize the center of gravity and handling.
4. Testing and Tweaking: Take the boat for a test run, making real-time adjustments via the trim/tilt switch.

No hull sanding, strake cutting, or trailer modifications are required, making it a non-invasive upgrade.

Pricing and Availability

The VARA® Foil kit is priced at approximately $3,800, with a 10% discount available for U.S. military personnel and veterans with valid government ID. For the most current pricing and purchasing details, visit the official PHA, Inc. website. The system is available for pontoon, tritoon, and power catamaran boats, with custom configurations for various sizes and engine types.

Addressing Concerns and Criticisms

Some users, like grey2112, expressed concerns about the cost and potential trailer modifications. PHA addresses these by ensuring no center bunk removal is needed and offering a money-back guarantee if the 25% speed gain is not achieved. Others, like kurttruk, cautioned about foils in heavy swell, noting potential stability issues if the angle of attack isn’t adjustable. The VARA® Foil’s real-time pitch control mitigates this concern, providing greater flexibility than fixed-foil designs.

Competitor Hydrofin suggested their swept-wing design prevents seaweed buildup, a potential issue in coastal areas. However, VARA® Foil’s low-drag profile and adjustable nature make it suitable for diverse environments, with no reported issues in user testimonials.

Why Choose the VARA® Foil?

The VARA® Foil stands out as a premium choice for pontoon owners seeking to enhance their boating experience without the expense of a new engine. Its key advantages include:

• Unmatched Performance: Delivers guaranteed speed gains and fuel savings, transforming pontoons into high-performance vessels.
• User-Friendly Design: Easy to install and adjust, with no permanent modifications.
• Durability and Quality: Built with robust materials and backed by a strong guarantee, ensuring long-term reliability.
• Enhanced Boating Experience: Offers a smoother, quieter, and drier ride, ideal for watersports, cruising, and rough water conditions.

For pontoon and tritoon owners, the VARA® Foil represents a game-changer, combining cutting-edge technology with practical benefits. Whether you’re looking to outpace traditional pontoons, save on fuel, or enjoy a “Magic Carpet Ride,” the VARA® Foil delivers on its promises.

Conclusion

The VARA® Foil Pontoon Hydrofoil redefines what’s possible for pontoon and tritoon boats, offering significant speed increases, fuel savings, and a smoother ride. Backed by glowing customer reviews, a 25% speed gain guarantee, and a user-friendly design, it’s an ideal upgrade for boating enthusiasts. While the $3,800 price tag requires consideration, the long-term savings and performance enhancements make it a compelling alternative to engine upgrades. For those ready to experience the “VARA® Life,” this hydrofoil system is a worthy investment that transforms leisurely cruises into exhilarating adventures.

For more information or to purchase, contact PHA, Inc. directly. Embrace the future of pontoon boating with the VARA® Foil and unleash your boat’s full potential.

Happy Boating!

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