A linearized cavity-flow theory is used to develop a mathematical model to study the steady characteristics of a flexible hydrofoil near a free surface. The Galerkin method is employed to account for the mutual interaction between the fluid and structure forces. Cheng and Rott's method [1]2 is used to derive general expressions for the deformation characteristics in steady flow of an arbitrarily shaped hydrofoil, with a clamped trailing edge and free leading edge. From the analysis it is possible to determine the lift and drag coefficients, cavity length, and the foil steady deformation for any given specific foil shape, cavitation number, angle of attack, flow depth/chord ratio and rigidity. Sample numerical results are given, and the effects of flexibility and the proximity of the free surface are discussed. Chordwise flexibility tends to increase drag and decrease lift coefficients. This effect is more serious near the free surface. A slight increase of the thickness near the leading edge diminishes the flexibility effects.