It is possible to design watercraft that will travel exactly where wind come from.

Using wind turbine with horizontal or vertical axis that power propeller in the water that boat should be able to have net resultant force propelling craft straight up the wind.

I wonder if is even theoretically possible to design such a sails configuration that do this same ?

I can imagine the closest to ideal could be configuration of two kites flying 8 figure always on opposite wind direction with resultant vector straigh forward...

Can't do this same with sails I am affraid



But if future Americas Cup allow all tricks the question is if such a boat will be eventually quicker on the race ? ( travelling straight up the wind ? )

If kites are still not allowed on Americas Cup ( why not ? ) the small guile with sort of pair flying spinakers shoud do the trick ...