Antifouling with the power of sound

The French publication Voiles et Voiliers reported on the newly launched ICE 80, a carbon yacht from Felci Yacht Design. The description observed a good mix of performance and elegance, with the bottom having an ultrasonic anti-fouling system which prevents microorganisms from adhering to the surface.

Huh?

Scuttlebutt HQ uses an ultrasonic animal repellent to deter feral cats from desecrating the gardens, and ultrasonic waves can also be transmitted through the hull to create an ultra-thin layer of high pressure between the protected surface and the surrounding water to prevent growth.

But is this bad for other sea life?

It appears to be okay since most fish hear frequencies well below ultrasound, plus traditional antifouling paints often release copper or other biocides into the water, and those chemicals can accumulate in marinas and affect marine organisms. Progress? Standing by.