Eights (8+)

8+

Hull Design Choices

E Hull 8+

Advantage 8+

Hull Size

S, M, L, XL

One size (fits M/L)

Model

V1, M2, Ultralite II, Performer

V1, M2, Ultralite II, Performer

Rigging

V1, M2: WING or EURO
Ultralite II, Performer: EURO only

EURO only

Click to Enlarge

Eights: You train too hard to leave things to chance!

We start with science. Vespoli eight-oared shell hull designs are the creation of the 2003 & 2007 America’s Cup winning Naval Architect, Manolo Ruiz De Elvira. Considered among the world’s best naval architects, Manolo’s revolutionary designs utilize the latest in hull optimization techniques and computational fluid dynamics. To learn more about De Elvira’s research and results, see "Boat science: How do hulls from different makers compare?" and watch the video "Racing Shell Hull Design: What really matters?".

We build what you want. You have a choice of:  hull shapes (E or Advantage), models (V1, M2, Ultralite & Performer), rigger style (Wing or Euro side mount), hull sizes (S, M, L & XL) as well as complete array of options with our Elite Upgrade Packages. Check out our new build a boat section to build a boat the way you want it.

We build our shells in the USA. We have modern facilities, state of the art equipment and the talent to build exactly what you need without the hassle and added costs of importing. All Vespoli boats are proudly built and serviced by our team of experienced and dedicated craftsmen and women in New Haven, CT, USA. If you damage your boat it can be repaired to original specifications with OEM parts by the people who built it!

We stand behind them. Every Vespoli is backed by our 5 year Bow to Stern Warranty–the most comprehensive in the industry–and our support is second to none. We’ll help keep you on the water and get you back there faster should disaster strike with OEM parts available 24/7 through our on-line store and complete repair service available at our factory. Our repair specialists are highly skilled, reliable and quickly return your boat to factory specs. We also offer full refurbishment services and in many instances can arrange for pick- up and drop-off at your boathouse.

We are there to help. Our regional representatives are friendly, enthusiastic and have extensive backgrounds in rowing and coaching. They are ready to assist you with any of your program needs; from repairs and rigging advice to fleet turnover plans and demo rows.

 
Vespoli Eights Vespoli Eights Vespoli Eights

Hull Designs (8+)

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E Hull: The result of research, testing and experience!

The E hull shape is the ultimate racing shell design. The significant performance factor in racing shell design is the reduction of wetted surface. Manolo Ruiz de Elvira’s unique America’s Cup tested designs incorporate the least wetted surface of any racing shell while actually increasing stability and virtually eliminating the negative effects of a pitching hull. The E hull is the result of extensive research and experimentation by the best minds in naval architecture and composite structures. Read about the science behind our E hulls and watch the video "Racing Shell Hull Design: What really matters?".

If you haven’t rowed an E hull you owe it to your crew to try one. Put the E hull on the clock and the results will convince you! Of course, the ultimate measure of any hull design is on the race course. The winning record of the E hulls grows with each season. In 2008 E hulls were raced by the winning crews at the major collegiate championships, both men & women, as well as the US Junior Women’s Gold Medal World Championship Eight. In 2009 E hulls were use by the US Jr. Women Gold Medal crew and also by 3 NCAA gold medal winning crews. See a complete list of recent results.

E hull design eights come in four, size specific hull shapes (S, M, L & XL), four models (V1, M2, Ultralite II & Performer) and with your choice of Wing (V1 & M2) or Euro side mount (all models) riggers.

E Hull E Hull Cross Section Comparison
 

Advantage Hull: Another way to Win!

When stability is your primary goal, the Advantage hull is the design for you. The Advantage eight is 25-40% more stable than other hull shapes while increasing "drag" by less than 1%, or about 1 boat length. That’s a margin easily made up by the Advantage’s easy-to-row shape which prevents many of the technical mistakes caused by harder-to-balance boats. The Advantage design is quickly becoming the favorite of junior, college and master programs who teach novices as well as rowers of varying skills. (See Boat science: How do hulls from different makers compare?).

The Advantage is also a racing boat for seasoned rowers. It only weighs 200 to 220 pounds (depending on model) when fully rigged. It is equipped with the same Euro side mount riggers, super bearing seats, VHP shoes and hardware found on the E hulls.

The Advantage eight is a uni-size hull that fits rowers averaging 140-190 pounds. Advantage hulls come in four models (V1, M2, Ultralite II and Performer) with Euro side mount riggers.

Advantage Advantage Cross Section Comparison
 

Models (8+)

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V1: Row the Rhino

V1: Row the RhinoThe V1 model is the ultimate in performance and durability. It is constructed of multiple layers of intermediate modulus, unidirectional carbon fiber and Nomex Honeycomb cured at 250 degrees. The V1 model features the unique ‘rhino skin’ (ultra-dense carbon layers) providing maximum impact resistance and stiffness. The V1 model is available in revolutionary E hull or stable Advantage hull designs.

V1 features

  • 10-year hull warranty & 5 Year Bow to Stern Warranty
  • Signature ‘Rhino Skin’: multiple layers of ultra-dense exterior layer of higher stiffness carbon fiber for the greatest impact resistance.
  • Four "size specific" E hulls (S, M, L & XL)
  • Wing or Euro (side-mount) riggers on E hulls
  • Quick Disconnect Riggers (Optional)
  • Euro side mount on Advantage hulls
  • Fully-adjustable, VHP shoe system (US Patent)
  • Fully-adjustable carbon fiber footboards
  • Carbon fiber seats with super bearing undercarriage (11.5" wheel centers)
  • 316 Marine grade stainless steel fasteners and anodized or hard-coated aluminum parts
Row The Rhino
 

M2

M2The M2 model has every feature and detail of the V1 model except the Rhino skin. The M2 is more than comparable to the top-of-the-line boat from other manufacturers. It is constructed of multiple layers of intermediate modulus, unidirectional carbon fiber and Nomex Honeycomb and is cured at 250 degrees for superior strength and longevity. The M2 is available in the E hull shape (the same revolutionary hull shape as the V1) and also in the more stable Advantage hull design.

M2 features

  • 5 year Bow to Stern Warranty
  • Four "size specific" E hulls (S, M, L & XL) and ‘uni-size’ Advantage Hull.
  • Wing or Euro (side-mount) riggers on E hulls
  • Quick Disconnect Riggers (Optional)
  • Euro side mount on Advantage hulls
  • Fully adjustable VHP shoe system (US Patent)
  • Fully adjustable carbon fiber footboards.
  • Carbon fiber seats with super bearing undercarriage (11.5" wheel centers)
  • 316 Marine grade stainless steel fasteners and anodized or hard-coated aluminum parts
Millennium II Choice of Riggers / Ribless
 

Ultralite II

Ultralite IIThe Ultralite II model is the best value on the market for a carbon & honeycomb boat. It is constructed of standard modulus, unidirectional carbon fiber and Nomex honeycomb, carbon flange, carbon channel ribs and cured at 250 degrees F.

An Ultralite II eight is exceptionally light weight and stiff. It is the perfect choice for programs that want a top level racing boat without the hefty price tag. For more than 20 years, crews racing in Ultralites have won events from novice/freshman races to world championships and even Olympic medals.

The Ultralite II is available in the E hull shape (the same revolutionary hull shape as the V1 & M2) and also in the more stable Advantage hull design.

Ultralite II features

  • 5-year bow-to-stern warranty
  • Four "size specific" E hulls (S, M, L & XL) and ‘uni-size’ Advantage Hull.
  • Euro side mount riggers
  • Carbon channel ribs
  • Fully adjustable, VHP shoe system (US Patent)
  • Fully adjustable carbon fiber footboards
  • Carbon fiber seats with super bearing undercarriage (11.5" wheel centers)
  • 316 Marine grade stainless steel fasteners and anodized or hard-coated aluminum parts
Ultralite II Euro Side Mount Riggers / Carbon Channel Ribs
 

Performer

PerformerThe Performer is the "work horse" for many programs because of its incredible durability, moderate weight and great pricing. This is the model used in novice training and learn to row programs. It is the model that schools such as Michigan, Princeton and Wisconsin use in the fall and winter with their varsity teams allowing them to keep the race boats safely on the racks until racing season.

The Performer is constructed of multiple layers of high impact fiberglass with honeycomb gunwales, carbon flange, carbon channel ribs, and is cured at 250 degrees. This “single skin” construction deflects upon impact drastically reducing damage.

The Performer model eight is available in the E hull shape (the same revolutionary hull shape as the V1 & M2) and also in the more stable Advantage hull design.

Performer features:

  • 5 year Bow to Stern Warranty
  • Four "size specific" E hulls (S, M, L & XL) and ‘uni-size’ Advantage hull.
  • Carbon channel ribs
  • Euro (side mount) riggers or Wing Riggers (Optional)
  • Standard Rowing Shoes
  • Fully adjustable carbon fiber footboards
  • Carbon fiber seats with super bearing undercarriage (11.5" wheel centers)
  • 316 Marine grade stainless steel fasteners and anodized or hard-coated aluminum parts
Performer Carbon Channel Ribs and S Glass Keel
 

Riggers & Fittings (8+)

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How a rower interfaces with a shell is absolutely critical to achieving optimal performance. A rower’s points of power transmission are feet, seat and oarlock. These "transmitters" must be ergonomic, efficient, adjustable, durable, stiff and light.

At Vespoli we know that fittings are an integral part of the shell and play a significant role in a crew’s success. We, therefore, engineer and manufacture our own fittings guaranteeing parts and accessories that fit perfectly into our hulls. Our experience as rowers and coaches in consultation with industry experts has allowed us to engineer and produce the best racing shell fittings available.

From the moment you put your feet into our patented design VHP shoes and sit on the ergonomically designed carbon seat you know that it just "feels right." Your shoes have the right fit, flex and stiffness to connect you to the shell. The seat rolls smoothly, silently and with minimal friction. The light and durable Vespoli riggers adjust quickly and easily to your body type. And when you take the catch you feel the direct and immediate transmission of power into boat speed.

You must have confidence in the performance of these fittings, stroke after stroke, year after year. Every part of a Vespoli racing shell is covered by our 5-year Bow to Stern Warranty. Plus, our service team attends hundreds of regattas every year.

When you do need replacement parts for any Vespoli boat, regardless of age, you can obtain them through our Customer Service department, our on-line store and at major regattas The fittings you need will ship quickly (95% same day ship rate).

 

Riggers

Wing Riggers

  • Aircraft-grade aluminum
  • Efficient airfoil shape
  • Anodized for corrosion protection
  • Custom rigging dimensions
  • 316 marine-grade stainless steel pin with ‘snap-on’ height spacers
  • Adjustable backstays—no hose clamps
  • Quick Disconnect Riggers (Optional)
 

Euro Side Mount Riggers

  • Aircraft-grade aluminum
  • Tubular frame design
  • Anodized for corrosion protection
  • Custom rigging dimensions available
  • 316 marine-grade stainless steel pin with ‘snap-on’ height spacers
  • Adjustable backstays—no hose clamps
Wing Rigging Wing Rigging Quick Disconnect Option Euro Rigging
 

Fittings

Shoes

    VHP shoe system

  • Double safety release system – heel tie and instep strap
  • Water resistant, durable synthetic material with ventilation holes
  • One piece injection molded sole and promotes positive power transmission as well as eliminates cracking
  • Removable, anti-microbial, neoprene bootie
  • Heel adjustment straps allow each VHP shoe to fit 3 sizes
  • Mens sizes: XS(6,7,8), S(8,9,10), M(10,11,12), L(12,13,14), XL(14,15,16)
  • Exclusive to Vespoli shells
    US patent # 7421971 B1

Foot Stretchers

  • Stiff, Light and durable
  • 100% carbon fiber board and tube
  • Adjustable board angle and shoe height
  • Wide foot placement
  • Saw-tooth tracks for secure and precise stretcher adjustment

Quick-Release Foot
Stretcher Bolts

  • Adjust foot stretcher placement quickly
  • No stretcher tool required
  • Secure hold
  • Plastic handle, machined 316 stainless steel bolt

Seats

  • Comfortable, ergonomic shape
  • High strength carbon seat top
  • Low drag, super-bearing wheels
  • Single action undercarriage
  • Wide wheel placement

Tracks

  • Hard coated aluminum seat tracks
  • 34” length
  • Adjustable
  • Mounted on plastic wedges

Fasteners

  • All Vespoli boats are fitted with 316 Marine-grade stainless steel.
  • All Aluminum parts are Anodized or Hard Coat for corrosion protection
Foot Stretchers Quick-release Foot Stretcher Bolt Tracks and Seat VHP Shoes Standard Shoes
 

Sizes & Weights (8+)

 

 

Specifications (Hull sizes listed are for E Hull, except for Advantage column)

Hull Size

S

M

L

XL

Advantage

Average Crew Weight (lbs)

125-155

155-185

175-205

195-225

140-195

Length (ft)

52’

55’

55’

56’

53’

Max. Beam at Waterline

20”

22”

22.3”

22.8”

23.8”

Wetted Surface (sq ft)

85.7 - 91.8

87.3 - 93.5

96.2 - 99.8

96.6 - 100.2

xxx

Average Weight of Rigged Shells (in pounds) (Hull sizes listed are for E Hull, except for Advantage column)

Fully rigged weights.
Weights are averaged.
All specifications are subject to change without notice.

Hull Size

S

M

L

XL

Advantage

V1 Euro Riggers

195

200

205

210

206

V1 Wing Riggers

190

195

202

205

n/a

M2 Euro Riggers

193

198

203

206

204

M2 Wing Riggers

188

193

200

203

n/a

Ultralite II

185

190

195

200

195

Performer

207

212

219

224

218