Abstract: An improved performance marine surface vessel with at least one recess that intersects the hull substantially beneath the static waterline thereof, the recess bounded by stabilizing, load-carrying, catamaran-like side hulls, flexible seal member at its forward portion, with downwardly extending generally bow shaped members located at its aft portion and optionally therebetween, with the recess being supplied with pressurized gas to maintain a lift-augmenting, restrained pressurized gas layer under the hull that improves load carrying capability, efficiency and ride quality. The flexible or soft seal member at the front of the vessel absorbs much of the initial wave impact thereby contributing substantially to the exceptional ride quality which, along with efficiency and speed, is a major object of the invention.