FTX VORTEX HIGH SPEED R/C RACE BOAT 44CM FTX0700

Overview

Get ready to hit the water this summer with the FTX Vortex High Speed R/C Race Boat, a fantastic entry-level electric RC boat that combines performance, reliability and exceptional value. At 44cm in length, this ready-to-run RC boat is the ideal size for first-time RC boat enthusiasts and younger operators, whilst still delivering genuine thrills with speeds up to 25kph. Whether you're looking for a brushed electric RC boat for pools, ponds or even larger lakes, the Vortex offers an impressive 100-metre range and approximately 10 minutes of continuous runtime per charge — perfect for an afternoon of water-based RC fun.

The Vortex has been thoughtfully engineered with beginner RC operators in mind, featuring a skill level rating of Level 1, meaning minimal assembly is required and you can be out on the water within minutes of unboxing. The attractive moulded hull with printed graphics gives this boat genuine visual appeal, whilst the specially designed lower hull incorporates integral water cooling for the brushed 380-sized motor — a feature that ensures reliable performance during extended play sessions. If you're new to the world of RC water sports or seeking an affordable, dependable brushed electric RC powerboat, the FTX Vortex High Speed R/C Race Boat represents an outstanding choice for UK hobbyists of all ages.

One of the standout features that sets this RC boat apart from competitors is the innovative one-key self-righting function. Should your boat accidentally capsize during enthusiastic driving, a single button press will flip it back upright within seconds — eliminating frustration and keeping your water-based RC sessions moving without constant manual recovery. This intelligent design consideration, combined with the rear twin tabs that enhance directional stability and smooth cornering performance, demonstrates FTX's commitment to creating user-friendly RC vessels.

Key Features

• 2.4GHz Radio System with Proportional Control — The Vortex utilises a modern 2.4GHz frequency radio system, which provides excellent interference-free operation and smooth proportional throttle and steering control, allowing for precise boat handling and responsive directional changes across a range of up to 100 metres.
• Self-Righting Function with One-Key Operation — Should your RC boat capsize or flip upside-down during play, simply press one button and the boat will automatically right itself 180 degrees and continue cruising — a feature that eliminates the need to retrieve your boat manually and keeps your water-based RC sessions uninterrupted.
• Watercooled Motor Design — The specially engineered lower hull incorporates integrated water cooling channels around the brushed 380-sized motor, ensuring the motor operates at optimal temperatures during extended use and significantly extending the lifespan of your electric powerplant.
• Rear Twin Tabs for Enhanced Stability — Twin stabiliser tabs mounted at the rear of the hull work together to reduce hull porpoising, improve cornering stability and ensure smooth, predictable handling even when driving through your own wake or in choppy water conditions.
• Protective Rubber Nose Cover — A soft rubber bumper is fitted to the front of the hull to absorb minor impacts with pool walls, pond banks or obstacles, protecting the delicate boat structure and reducing damage during casual play sessions.
• High and Low Speed Options — The radio transmitter features selectable high and low speed modes, allowing beginners to learn boat handling at reduced throttle settings before progressing to full-speed racing once confidence and skill levels increase.
• Dual Low Power Warning System — An audio alarm alerts you when either the boat's battery or the transmitter's battery is running low on charge, preventing you from being stranded away from the shoreline with no power to return to base.
• Range Warning Indicator — The radio system provides feedback when you approach the maximum 100-metre range limit, helping you maintain safe control distance and preventing loss-of-signal incidents during extended play sessions.
• USB Charging Convenience — The included USB charger allows you to top up the 1500mAh 7.4V LiPo battery using any standard USB power source, including computer ports, USB power banks and wall adapters, making charging flexible and accessible anywhere.
• Ready-to-Run Assembly — The Vortex arrives fully assembled and ready to run straight from the box, requiring only the installation of four AA batteries in the transmitter before you can launch immediately — no soldering, programming or complex setup needed.
• Spare Propeller and Display Stand Included — The package includes a replacement propeller so you can continue cruising even if the primary prop becomes damaged, plus an attractive display stand to showcase your boat when not in use.

Technical Performance

The FTX Vortex High Speed R/C Race Boat represents an exceptionally well-engineered entry-level electric RC vessel, featuring proven brushed motor technology paired with efficient electronic speed control for reliable, consistent performance. The boat is powered by a brushed 380-sized motor — a compact yet powerful electric motor that delivers linear acceleration and smooth speed response across the entire throttle range. The integrated watercooled hull design, a sophisticated engineering feature rarely found on budget RC boats, circulates water directly around the motor casing, effectively dissipating heat during operation and maintaining optimal running temperatures even during back-to-back sessions. The 1500mAh 7.4V lithium-ion battery provides sufficient capacity for approximately 10 minutes of continuous high-speed operation, with USB charging making battery management straightforward and convenient for UK hobbyists. Maximum speed reaches 25kph — a genuinely thrilling velocity for a 44cm vessel that generates impressive bow waves and spray, yet remains manageable for beginners learning boat control dynamics. The brushed motor is driven through a prop drive system, eliminating the complexity of gear ratios and transmission tuning whilst providing direct, responsive power delivery. The boat utilises Deans connectors for battery interfacing, a standard used throughout the RC hobby, ensuring compatibility with replacement battery packs should you wish to extend your operating time. The hull moulding is constructed from durable plastics with integrated structural reinforcement, providing sufficient strength to withstand minor impacts during casual pond and pool sessions whilst maintaining lightweight characteristics for responsive handling.

What's in the Box

• FTX Vortex fully assembled R/C race boat (44cm length)
• 2.4GHz proportional radio transmitter
• 1500mAh 7.4V LiPo battery with Deans connector
• USB battery charger
• Spare propeller
• Display stand
• Protective rubber nose cover (pre-fitted)
• Instruction manual with care and safety guidelines

What You Need to Complete

• Four AA batteries (required to power the radio transmitter — not included)

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the FTX Vortex suitable for complete beginners to RC boating? — Yes, absolutely. The Vortex carries a Skill Level 1 rating, indicating it is specifically designed for newcomers to the RC hobby. It arrives fully assembled and ready to run, requiring only transmitter batteries before you can launch. The high and low speed modes allow beginners to learn at reduced throttle before exploring full performance, whilst the self-righting function removes frustration when the boat accidentally capsizes.
• What battery does the FTX Vortex use and how long does it run? — The boat is powered by an included 1500mAh 7.4V lithium-ion battery with Deans connectors, delivering approximately 10 minutes of continuous runtime on a full charge. The included USB charger allows convenient top-ups from any USB power source. For extended play sessions, you can purchase additional compatible 7.4V LiPo batteries as optional accessories.
• Can I use the FTX Vortex in different water environments? — Yes, the Vortex is versatile enough for pools, ponds and even larger lakes. Its 100-metre radio range gives you plenty of scope for exploration, though you should always operate within line of sight and be mindful of the range warning function. The watercooled motor design provides reliable performance across different water temperatures, though freshwater use is recommended for longevity.
• How does the self-righting function work? — The self-righting function is activated by pressing a dedicated button on the transmitter. The boat's internal mechanism then automatically flips it 180 degrees if it capsizes, allowing it to continue operation without manual intervention. This is an invaluable feature for beginners who are still developing boat control skills.
• What is the difference between brushed and brushless RC motors? — The Vortex uses a brushed 380 motor, which is simpler, more affordable, requires less maintenance and is perfectly suited to beginner-level play. Brushless motors offer higher efficiency and longer lifespan but are found on more advanced and expensive models. For your first electric RC boat, the brushed motor in the Vortex is entirely appropriate and delivers excellent performance.
• What do the rear twin tabs do? — The twin tabs mounted at the stern of the boat function as hydrodynamic stabilisers, reducing hull porpoising (bouncing), improving directional stability during cornering, and helping maintain smooth handling even when navigating choppy water or your own wake. They effectively act as trim tabs to optimise the boat's attitude in the water.
• Does this boat come ready to run out of the box? — Yes, it is supplied fully assembled (RTR — Ready To Run). You simply need to insert four AA batteries into the transmitter and you can launch immediately. No soldering, programming or complex assembly is required, making it ideal for users of all ages and experience levels.
• What is the range of the FTX Vortex? — The 2.4GHz radio system provides a control range of up to 100 metres, which is more than sufficient for pools, ponds and small to medium-sized lakes. The radio includes a range warning function that alerts you as you approach the maximum operating distance.

Why Buy from RC Model Shop?

RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the FTX VORTEX HIGH SPEED R/C RACE BOAT 44CM FTX0700 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.