The Intermediate Guide to Best Hydrofoil For Outboard Motor
My grandfather was an avid boatsman back in the day. Now, not so much. His boat sits in storage, not using it for years. Wanting to surprise him, I found the best hydrofoil for outboard motor fin for his boat.
All of my childhood, I would sit co-captain, riding along the water with Gramps. I know those are memories he cherishes as well. Having found the best whale tail for outboard motor, we will recreate those memories on the once again.
Quick Comparison Table
Speed Crazy? Then review this list of best hydrofoil stabilizer. I can bet installing any of the lists will alter your boating experience. Try it Today.
Hydrofoils are one of the necessary components for your boat – if you are looking to enjoying the full capacity of your boat. However, the main function of the hydrofoil such as the Yamaha outboard hydrofoil, much like wings on an airplane, is to decrease the drag caused by the resistance of the water. This helps boost speed while improving engine efficiency and helps conserve your fuel cost. For these reasons, installing the stabilizer fin for outboard motor is the right thing you can do for your boat today.
What is Hydrofoil?
A hydrofoil is a wing-like lifting surface in water similar to how the wings (aerofoils) on the airplane works. A hydrofoil gives your boat stability and propels it faster.
Essentially, boat hydrofoils allow the boat to move faster, without expending much energy through water by resists drag and prevents the hull from coming in contact with the water.
Needless to say, a fast tail hydrofoil improves the performance and efficiency of your boat’s engine.
Best Hydrofoil For Outboard Motor Reviews As Of 2023
#1. SE Sport 300 Hydrofoil, fits 35 hp – 300 hp engines

The SE Sport 300’s a robust, well-designed narrow shaped hydrofoil stabilizer. This unique design ensures that it provides quick and precise control for your boat. Unlike compatible with other brands, SE Sports 300 is the best hydrofoil for small outboat motor fins Mercruiser.
Its unique design is key to ensuring that drag and resistance are reduced.
Easy installation
The SE sport 300 hydrofoil also gives you a seamless cruise control at lower speeds. The SE Sport 300 Hydrofoil can be installed for a range of outboards from 35 hp – 300 hp engines. It covers a whole range of outboard motors in the market.
Quicker planing
If you enjoy going out to sea with a couple of friends and family, this hydrofoil stabilizer helps you maintain balance and slashes the time it takes to get on plane, even if you don’t have trim tabs.
Saves Fuel
Although you’ll most likely lose a mile/hour on top-end speed, the SE sport 300 hydrofoil saves you up to 25% fuel by presenting drag and boosting your engine performance.
- Conserves fuel
- Helps you eliminate drag
- Helps you attain planning much quicker
- Quick cruise control
- They help with porpoising and cavitation
- Reduces top speed
Also Read: Hydrofoil or Trolling Plate?
#2. Davis Doel-Fin Outboard/Outdrive Stabilizer (best whale tail for outboard motor)

The Davis Doel-Fin improves the overall performance of your boat, no matter the design and manufacture quality of your outboard motor.
For starters, the Davis Doel-fin is manufactured from high-quality rubber materials with each foil designed to act as an excellent independent shock absorber.
Use fuel efficiently
The Davis Doel-fin helps you increase the overall performance. It also helps you save up to 30% on fuel consumption.
Improved performance
If you are a boater obsessed with speed and performance, this might just be the best outboard stabilizer for you.
With the stabilizer, you maintain your planing speed with having to constantly adjust your throttle.
Easy installation.
Davis Doel-fin requires 15 minutes of your time for a complete installation. However, you’ll need to have a right-angle drill to complete the installation.
- Works with a huge range of motor engines
- Fast and easy installation
- reduces fuel consumption by 30%
- Low bow rise ensure visibility and safety
- Improves overall performance of your boat
- Mounting the bolts to your outboard Motor may be difficult.
Also Read : Best Rated Canoe Outboard Motors
#3. Marine Dynamics SR-XPI-1 Black StingRay Hydrofoil Stabilizer

This hydrofoil is one of the models from the “classic” hydrofoil produced by Marine Dynamics. Founded in 1987 the company has been in operation for over 30 years.
This classic black stingray hydrofoil stabilizer is just what you need if you are looking to up your engine’s performance.
Here’s why…
Can be installed on a range of outboard motors
The SR-XPI-1 hydrofoil for 25 hp outboard up to 300 HP. Rest assured you can also add it to your engine.
Improves performance
This hydrofoil effortlessly improves your boat’s performance. Many boaters have often described it as the fastest hydrofoil available in the market.
Eliminates Porpoising and cavitation
You may trim your boat in or down at a time to stop porpoising, however, if you are aiming for top speed, the uncontrollable bounce is the last thing you need. The SR-XPI-1 is effective at not only eliminating this but also stopping the motor from over-revving when you slow down.
Keep in mind that this hydrofoil is most effective for boats under 25ft.
- Helps you maintain quicker planning
- Reduces porpoising and cavitation
- Reduces bow rise
- Provides you with true control and stability
- Boost your top-end speed
- Most effective for boats under 20ft
#4.SE Sport 400 No-Drill Hydrofoil, Fits Engines Over 40 Hp

If you are looking for a hydrofoil that gets you much faster planning and helps you save a huge amount of fuel, look no further.
The SE Sport 400 is a high-performance hydrofoil that optimizes speed, stability, and cruise control.
Improves speed and improves handling
The SE Sport 400 hydrofoil improves your engine performance. Not only does it help maintain your top-end speed, but it also improves the control and handling of your steering – providing greater stability.
Greater control and quicker planning
Its unique crescent-shaped design helps your boat attain planning much faster, thus providing you a smoother ride with greater stability and control.
Saves fuel
One of the main concerns on every boater’s mind is fuel economy. Along with providing you a safe ride, the SE Sport 400 hydrofoil helps you conserve fuel and boosting your boat’s speed.
- Helps you save fuel
- Significant improvement instability and control
- It comes with complete installation hardware
- Reduces porpoising and prop ventilation issues
- You may need to check and retighten the bolts
- Reduces top speed
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#5. Davis Instruments Whale Tail XL Hydrofoil Stabilizer review

Also known as the Davis aluminum hydrofoil stabilizer whale tail for boat. This hydrofoil stabilizer with its sturdy, unique hydrodynamic design is known to improve the performance of any boat.
Here’s why this hydrofoil is one of the best.
Davis instrument whale tail XL hydrofoil is a product of a marine product company. Davis instrument has been in the market for over 37 years producing high-quality weather products.
The quality and innovation behind the Davis instrument whale tail XL hydrofoil is visible.
Read on.
Reduces porpoising and cavitation
This hydrofoil stabilizer helps reduce the excessive bouncing on the water and gives you smooth cruise control.
Improves performance
The Davis Whale tail XL Improves the holeshot of your boat and reduces the time for planning at a lower speed. Also, the hydrofoil provides safety – you get better visibility with the bow lifted.
Improves top-end speed and saves fuel
Perhaps the icing on the cake for this high-performing hydrofoil. Along with saving you fuel, it also considerably improves your boat’s speed.
- Made with a sturdy, quality aluminum material
- Gives you a smooth outride
- Fast and easy installation with complete installation hardware
- Reduces porpoising and cavitation
- Boosts top-end speed and conserves fuel.
- None noticed
#6.SE Sport 200 Hydrofoil, fits 8 hp – 40 hp engines

The hydrofoil works best for outboard engines 8 HP to 40 HP. Even though this hydrofoil is best for low-powered engines – fishing boats and boats under 20ft, they offer a great bang for your buck.
What can you expect? We’ll tell you.
Increase stability and balance
Even though using this hydrofoil will decrease your speed, you’ll be happy with all the control and stability it gives you.
Improved control and reduced planning time
As with all SE Sport hydrofoils, the turbo trac helps improve the control, while its unique crescent-shaped surface helps reduce the planning time of your boat.
Saves fuel
Most importantly, the SE Sport hydrofoil saves you fuel cost. It also helps reduce prop ventilation.
- Saves you fuel cost
- Provides excellent balance and stability
- Helps you get rid of porpoising and prop ventilation
- Improved thrust for quicker planning
- Comes with its complete mounting hardware
- Only suitable for small and midrange outboard engines.
Also Read : Best Trolling Motor Battery
#7. Marine Dynamics Stingray Classic Hydrofoil Stabilizer Jr

This classic stingray trolling motor hydrofoil stabilizer is just what you need if you are looking for top-notch engine performance. Even though you may have to sacrifice some speed, it is worth it as you gain much-needed control of your boat.
However, once you trim and fit the top plate to size, here’s what you’ll get from this hydrofoil;
Best performance for small and mid-range outboard motors
Stingray classic hydrofoil stabilizer can be installed with motors 15 HP up to 40 HP. It works best with small and mid-range motor engines.
Improves performance
Its unique shape and design material enhances the speed and reduces drag. No doubt, these are the fastest hydrofoil stabilizers in the market.
Eliminates Porpoising and cavitation
Theys are not only effective in eliminating porpoising but also stopping the motor from over-revving when you slow down. And also delivering true stability.
However, keep in mind that this hydrofoil is most effective for boats under 25ft.
- Helps you maintain quicker planning
- Reduces porpoising and cavitation
- Reduces bow rise
- Provides you with true control and stability
- Eliminate chime-walking
- Works best for small and mid-range outboard engines 40 HP and lower
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#8. Marine Dynamics Starfire-1 Stingray Black Starfire Hydrofoil

This classic stingray hydrofoil stabilizer is a no-drill installation just what you need if you have a new outboard motor engine, and are reluctant to make a dent on your outboard motor.
Unlike other models, the Starfire-1 boost your speed along with giving you great control.
Here’s what you’ll get from this hydrofoil;
Best performance for small and mid-range outboard motors
Stingray classic hydrofoil stabilizer can be installed with motors 15 HP up to 40 HP. It works best with small and mid-range motor engines.
Improves performance
This hydrofoil effortlessly improves your boat’s performance. Its unique shape and design material enhances the speed and reduces drag.
Eliminates Porpoising and cavitation
The Marine Dynamics classics are not only effective in eliminating porpoising, but also delivering true stability and control of your boat.
- Drill-free installation
- Helps you get on plane quicker
- Reduces porpoising and cavitation
- Simple and quick installation
- Provides you with true stability
- Without a drill fastening, the hydrofoil may slip off from the anti cavitation plate.
#9. Hydroplaner Stainless Steel Hydrofoil Stabilizer for Outboards and Stern Drives

The Hydroplanner Stainless steel hydrofoil provides a strong and durable hydrofoil made of aluminum steel.
What can you expect from a “proudly” American-manufactured hydrofoil? We’ll tell you.
Increase stability and balance
Even though using this hydrofoil will decrease your speed, you’ll be happy with all the control and stability it gives you.
Improved control and reduced planning time
Its turbo trac helps improve the control, while its surface helps balance and reduce the planning time of your boat.
This hydrofoil also helps you eliminate porpoising, cavitation, and chine-walking issues.
Saves fuel
Most importantly, the Hydro Planner Stainless steel hydrofoil saves you fuel cost. It also helps reduce prop ventilation.
- Saves you fuel cost
- Provides excellent balance and stability
- Helps you get rid low bow rise and prop ventilation to improve safety
- Improved thrust for quicker planning
- Takes only about 30 minutes to install
- No noticeable
#10. Attwood Outboard Motor Hydro-Stabilizer 9401-7

At this stage, we are
at attwood hydrofoil review. Attwood Outboard Motor Hydro-Stabilizer provides a strong and durable hydrofoil that works best for outboard engines.
What can you expect?
Reduces drag and boost speed
One of its stand out features is to decrease your speed, you’ll be happy with all the control you get from this hydrofoil. It also allows a smoother ride by reducing drag.
Improved planning and stability
Although this hydrofoil is perfect for outboards under 50 HP, it helps reduce a large chunk of the planning time of your boat-giving you true stability.
Aids in pulling Skiers and Tubers
As a skier or wakeboarder, you can get the smoothest wake for your sporting activity and fun. Pulls skiers out of the hole faster. Have fun.
However, you’ll need to use a drill to fit this hydrofoil.
- Saves you fuel cost
- Provides excellent balance and stability
- Helps you get rid low bow rise and prop ventilation to improve safety
- Improved thrust for quicker planning
- Takes only about 30 minutes to install
- Fits engines less than 50 Hp
Outboards Compatible with our listed Outboard Motor Hydrofoils
Davis Doel-Fin Outboard/Outdrive Stabilizer
150 HP Mercury, 115 HP Yamaha, 1987 50 HP Force, 1985 Johnson, 40 HP mercury, v6 inboards/outboards, 199-1997 20 HP Evinrude 4 Stroke, 50 HP Johnson, 6HP 2012 Yamaha, 9.9 HP Mercury, 90hp Yamaha.
SE Sport 300 Hydrofoil, fits 35 hp – 300 hp engines
200 HP Yamaha, 150 HP Yamaha, 115 Yamaha, 2010 250ho, 2014 50 HP Mercruiser, 112 HP Johnson, 60 HP Mercury, 200 HP Mercury Verado, 115 Mercury EFI 4 Stroke Outboard, 1993 120 HP Johnson, Mercruiser 3.0, 2017 60 HP mercury bigfoot.
SE Sport 400 No-Drill Hydrofoil, Fits Engines Over 40 Hp
18 ft V6 Bayliner, 2009, 130 HP Evinrude, 2004 115 HP Yamaha 4 Stroke, Volvo Penta i/o 3.0 110 HP, 454 Mercruiser, 2009 40 HP, Mercury BigFoot, Alpha 1 Mercury, Rinker 232, 2003 90 HP Mercury, 1993 OMC Cobra.
Marine Dynamics SR-XPI-1 Black StingRay Hydrofoil Stabilizer
150 HP Mercury, 115 HP Yamaha, 1987 50 HP Force, 1985 Johnson, 40 HP mercury, v6 inboards/outboards, 199-1997 20 HP,200 HP Johnson, Mercruiser Alpha 1 drive, 115 HP Mercury, 140 HP Suzuki, 115 HP.
Davis Instruments Whale Tail XL Hydrofoil Stabilizer
Mercruiser hydrofoil, 112 HP Johnson, 60 HP Mercury, 200 HP Mercury Verado, 115 Mercury EFI 4 Stroke Outboard, 1993 120 HP.
SE Sport 200 Hydrofoil, fits 8 hp – 40 hp engines
25 HP Johnson, 12 ft rib 30 HP, 1998 15 HP Evinrude, 2002 40 HP Mercury 2 Stroke, 1976 25 HP Johnson, 9.9 HP Suzuki, 2016 20 HP Mercury, 18 HP Tohatsu, 25 HP Yamaha 2 Strokes, 2002 Mercury 40 HP.
Marine Dynamics Stingray Classic Hydrofoil Stabilizer Jr
200 HP Johnson, Mercruiser Alpha 1 drive, 115 HP Mercury, 140 HP Suzuki, 115 HP.
Marine Dynamics Starfire-1 Stingray Black Starfire Hydrofoil
200 HP Johnson, Mercruiser Alpha 1 drive, 115 HP Mercury, 140 HP Suzuki, 115 HP Yamaha.
Hydroplaner Stainless Steel Hydrofoil Stabilizer for Outboards and Stern Drives
Johnson, 9.9 HP Suzuki, 2016 20 HP Mercury, 18 HP Tohatsu, 25 HP Yamaha 2 Strokes, 2002 Mercury 40 HP.
Attwood Outboard Motor Hydro-Stabilizer 9401-7
200 HP Yamaha, 150 HP Yamaha, 115 Yamaha, 2010 250ho, 2014 50 HP Mercruiser, 112 HP Johnson, 60 HP Mercury, 200 HP Mercury Verado, 115 Mercury EFI 4 Stroke Outboard, 1993 120 HP.
Hydrofoils and Hydrofoil Stabilizers
Hydrofoils are structures attached to the bottom of the lull. It helps reduce drag while improving your boats’ speed and managing your engine.
However, while hydrofoils are still in use, boat owners have sought an easy-to-install way to use hydrofoil technology to improve their boat’s performance. These are hydrofoil stabilizers.
They are easy to set up and are easily attached to the onboard motor of your boat.
Hydrofoils vs Trim Tabs
As we discussed, hydrofoils are wing-like structures attached to the bottom of the hull. They help reduce drag and improve the overall performance of your engine.
However, if there is a load on one side or people sitting or standing on one side, it’s difficult to keep your boat on a plane.
This where the trim tab comes into play.
Trim tabs are adjustable plates controlled by a hydraulic pump or electric power unit. They are usually mounted at the transom of the boat.
Trim tabs help you maintain an equal balance of your boat by lifting to adjust for bow rise. It helps you get your boat on plane while compensating for weight distribution – keeping your boat level and maintaining your safety.
Types of Hydrofoils
There are two main types of hydrofoil configuration:
- surface-piercing: Here, part of the V-shaped hydrofoils rises above the water surface.
- fully submerged hydrofoils: Fully submerged hydrofoils are less subject to the effects of wave action.
Key Benefits of Hydrofoils
Hydrofoils have shown to help boost the overall performance of your boat. But here are the key benefits of installing a hydrofoil;
- It helps save fuel costs.
- It boosts the speed and performance of your boat.
- It helps you balance and stabilize your boat even high speeds.
- It helps you get rid of a low bow rise, porpoising, cavitation, chine-walking, and prop ventilation to improve safety.
- Reduces time for quicker planning
What Are The best Outboard Hydrofoil Brands
Marine Dynamics SR-XPI-1 Black StingRay Hydrofoil Stabilizer
This hydrofoil is one of the best outboard hydrofoil models from the “classic” hydrofoil produced by Marine Dynamics. Founded in 1987 the company has been in operation for over 30 years.
This classic black stingray hydrofoil stabilizer is just what you need if you are looking to up your engine’s performance.
Another hydrofoil we recommend is;
Davis Instruments Whale Tail XL Hydrofoil Stabilizer
Also known as the Davis aluminum whale tail.
Davis instrument whale tail XL hydrofoil is a product of a marine product company. Davis instrument has been in the market for over 37 years producing high-quality weather products.
The quality and innovation behind the Davis instrument whale tail XL hydrofoil is plain to see.
Here, we taking a look at the top 10 hydrofoils to help you improve your boat’s performance and efficiency.
Apart from the above two, OZ Hydrofoil by Honda is also a premium quality stabilizer you can consider.
Also Read: Best Saltwater Trolling Motor For Canoe
Things to consider before buy
Material
Hydrofoils materials need to be strong and durables. Most hydrofoils in the market are made from plastics. This makes it easy to withstand the impact of waves of water while still being pliant.
However, some hydrofoils are made from sturdy aluminum steel. These hydrofoils provide specific functions like providing balance and stability- much like the trim pad.
The size of your boat
The size of your boat is important in choosing a hydrofoil to install. While some hydrofoil stabilizers can be used on larger boats, hydrofoils are most effective on small and mid-range boats such as fishing boats and leisure boats. Generally, boats under 20ft.
Mounting option
There are two mounting options for small outboard hydrofoils
- drill mount hydrofoils
- drill-free hydrofoils
Drill-free hydrofoils allow you to clamp-on your hydrofoils without having to drill holes on your cavitation plate. However, it tends to damage your outboard engine or slips off the cavitation plate during motion.
On the other hand, while you’ll need to drill into your motor, the drill mount helps fasten the hydrofoils to your cavitation plate.
Compatibility with the engine
As we’ve discussed, hydrofoils work best with small and mid-range boats, typically under 20 ft.
These boats usually have an engine power of between 40 HP to 65 HP.
Notwithstanding, certain hydrofoil also has significant effects on larger boats. And offer certain benefits.
Thus the size of your boat plays a role in installing a hydrofoil.
Desired speed and fuel consumption
If you are mostly interested in reducing your fuel costs and boosting your boat’s speed, hydrofoil stabilizers can help you achieve this.
However, you have to find the right hydrofoil that fits with your boat and your needs.
Prices
Prices of hydrofoils differ based on manufacturing material and the main function.
The average cost of hydrofoils when shopping online is $30 but you’ll find that the top-end models are more expensive at $159.
Warranty
When buying a hydrofoil, you can never e sue if it will fit on your cavitation plate, so always find out about the warranty- in case you’ll need to return it.
Maintenance tips
Although there are a few reasons why sockets fail, any socket can fail. However, with proper care and attention, you can prevent your impact socket from failing.
Here are a few maintenance tips;
For starters, avoid using altered, heavily used, damaged, or chrome sockets.
- We also recommend tying off the head to prevent it from dropping or flying off after a failure.
- Be aware of your hydraulic forces. Sockets are prone to failure when torqued more than twice the specified amount for assembly.
- Limit torque to the capacity of the weakest tool in the application.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Will a Hydrofoil Improve Performance on your Boat?
Yes, you will see improvements with your boat. Apart from boosting the overall performance of your engine; fuel conservation, and improved speed, a hydrofoil helps you maintain balance and control of your boat.
How do hydrofoils work?
There are many complicated aerodynamic sciences to explain how a hydrofoil works.
But we’ll break it down for you.
Similar to the wings on an airplane, hydrofoils allow your boat to move faster by making sure the hull gets as little contact as possible with the water.
When should you get a hydrofoil for a small outboard motor?
If you are looking to boost the speed of your boat or increase stability and control, you should consider installing a hydrofoil.
Can you mount the hydrofoil on any boat?
There are specifications for mounting a foil. If your onboard motor has a cavitation plate, you may choose a drill-mount or a drill-free mount. It depends on you.
What Is Good Compression For An Outboard Motor?
Depending on the model, make and year of your outboard motor, good compression may differ. However, good compression reading should be between 90-105 PSI.
How To Winterize An Outboard Motor
Follow these simple steps to winterize your outboard motor –
Step 1: Give your motor a freshwater flush
Step 2: Search for the salt build-up and rinse it out
Step 3: Next, change the lower unit oil
Step 4: Add a fuel stabilizer
Step 5: Use water to rinse and circulate the stabilizer – make sure you drain the water
Step 6: Spray and engine forger in the air intake until smoke comes out the back
Step 7: Also, open the plugs and spray into the cylinders
How To Measure Outboard Motor Shaft Length?
Measuring your outboard motor shaft length ensures that you know that your boat will perform at the correct height.
Here’s how to measure our outboard Motor shaft
- Place the tip of a yardstick on the top of the mounting clamp bracket that secures it to the boat.
- Read the measurement at the bottom of the cavitation plate. The cavitation plate is the flat area that is horizontal above the propeller.
Will a hydrofoil stop Porpoising?
Occasionally it does for a specific condition where your propeller, trim tab & weight distribution of your boat have some issues.
Should I put a hydrofoil on my outboard?
If your outboard motor is under performing, you should try using a hydrofoil.
Which hydrofoil is best?
If you have less understanding about hydrofoil stabilizers, go for Davis Doel.
Which outboard motor is the most reliable?
A couple Of brands are extremely familiar & proven reliable. Yamaha, Marine Dynamics, Davis Doel, Mercury, Honda outboard hydrofoil are renowned for reliability.
What is the purpose of a hydrofoil?
Hydrofoil help to stabilize your boat while it is running. This helps to increase your boat ultimate speed.
do outboard hydrofoils work
Definitely, unless giant manufacturers like Yamaha,Honda would not in research on it & develop such product for business.
is marine outboard motor legit
Yes, marine outboard motors are good engines.This product is designed to reduce engine vibration and noise. It helps the engine to be more quiet and smooth.
SE Sport 300 Hydrofoil, fits 35 hp – 300 hp engines
Conclusion
Hydrofoil stabilizers can prove a worthwhile investment for your boat as it delivers the overall performance in; fuel efficiency, stability, and speed, similarly to the more structural hydrofoil. Not only does it give your boat a hydrodynamic boost, but the best hydrofoil stabilizer also increases the general performance of your engine.
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