- AROUND THE SAILING WORLD
- BOAT OF THE YEAR
- Email Newsletters
- America’s Cup
- St. Petersburg
- Caribbean Championship
- Boating Safety
2024 Boat of the Year Best Trimaran: Dragonfly 40 Ultimate
- By Dave Reed
- December 20, 2023
“Classy.” That was the first word that came to mind for Boat of the Year judge Mike Ingham when he stepped aboard the formidable 40-foot trimaran from Dragonfly, an unexpected and welcome late entry to the competition in Annapolis. “It almost feels as if the boat is intentionally understated but overdelivered because once you start looking closer at the details and craftsmanship, it just keeps getting more impressive.”
Builder and company owner Jens Quorning, whose family has been building trimarans in southern Denmark since 1967, says the Dragonfly 40 is the biggest boat they now build and a worthy holder of the flagship title. “Building a boat of this scale is complicated,” he says of the folding trimaran. “It takes three years to develop a new design, and this is for owners looking for a bigger boat, with better performance, capable of more long-distance sailing.”
The result is a powerful trimaran aimed at experienced owners who appreciate the sheer pleasure of racing and cruising on three hulls. This is not your average production multihull. It is a powerful and luxurious sailing machine capable of knocking off fast miles in comfort. Slip down below and you’re immediately immersed in a master class of woodwork and joinery. There are berths for four, including a giant master under the cockpit, plenty of standing headroom, and a comfortable salon and galley arrangement that’s monohull-cozy. “We do not offer a big house on the water,” Quorning tells the judges. “But if you really want a fine and elegant yacht with double-digit sailing, this is what we do.”
For our tests, Dragonfly presented its Ultimate edition, the midrange version. An upscaled Performance model is an all-carbon version with a taller mast. And in the lightest wind of the week, sub-10 knots, the trimaran teased the judges with its potential. Still, in the light stuff, the boat delivered a winning experience.
“It was a dream to sail upwind and downwind, almost effortlessly,” Ingham says. “With the gennaker up, at about 100 degrees true, we were going faster than the wind, and with winch pods on each side of the steering wheel, everything was as ergonomic as you could possibly imagine. The electric winches made it a cinch to furl and unfurl the headsails through the tacks and jibes, and the sails trimmed in perfectly every time.”
The feather-light feel of the helm, Ingham adds, was as smooth as a balanced dinghy. “With tiny movements on the wheel, the boat would immediately respond, but I could also walk away from the helm for a few minutes and the boat would stay right on track. Crazy—I think it steered itself better than I did.”
That’s the trait of a good trimaran, Greg Stewart says. The Dragonfly 40 has a lot of buoyancy in the bows, and while the center hull is substantial, the tall trussed rig and square top mainsail provide plenty of power. “The biggest thing that struck me is how easily accessible everything is,” Stewart says. “Clearly, every detail is painstakingly thought out, and I can’t believe how beautifully built the interior is. It’s top-notch, from the glasswork to the paintwork inside and out. Down below, we were all blown away by the finish.”
There’s no denying the boat is expensive at upward of $1 million, but the test boat had quality race sails, a full electric-winch package, and a long list of high-spec extras. At nearly 15,000 pounds light, it’s a substantial boat—not trailerable, but foldable with Dragonfly’s trademark technique that Corning describes as mimicking parallel rules. The floats are 2 feet longer than the center hull, with buoyancy pushed well forward into the reversed bows, and the center hull is narrow at the waterline before sweeping upward to a high and hard chine. This pronounced hull shape allows for the generous amount of headroom, and high bench seats that flank a long centerline table, which can, of course, drop down to create a double-size berth.
Allen noted that the center hull’s wide side decks provide a secure pathway to the bow, rather than across the trampolines. He was also impressed with the ease of sailing the boat and the comfort belowdecks. “When we were doing 9 knots, I went below and there was silence. It’s comfortable and beautiful. It would be a blast to do some long point-to-point racing on it, doublehanded or with like a crew of four, max.”
Stewart agreed, adding that beyond its noteworthy gunkholing attributes, the engine is well aft on the center hull, allowing it to be motored safely into shallow anchorages. The daggerboard is mechanically raised into the trunk, and the rudder kicks up. “I also think it would be great for a distance race or rally type of event,” Stewart says. “Its performance and versatility are what appeal to me, but the build quality is what really sets it apart.”
- More: 2024 Boat of the Year , Sailboats
- More Sailboats
Nautor Swan Has A New Pocket Rocket
Pogo Launches its Latest Coastal Rocket
A Deeper Dive Into the Storm 18
2024 Boat of the Year Best Recreational Racer: Z24
The Rise of Charlotte Rose
Team Argo’s Yokohama Record
McKee’s Six Golden Rules
Kaczor’s Tartan 10 Erica Wins Regatta Series Chicago
- Digital Edition
- Customer Service
- Privacy Policy
- Cruising World
- Sailing World
- Salt Water Sportsman
- Sport Fishing
- Wakeboarding
Folding System
Legendary ability, unbeatable reliability.
Folding and unfolding a Corsair trimaran takes only a minute. With just 4 bolts to remove, it is easily managed by one person, and is normally done while afloat. Simply raise (to fold) or press down (to unfold) the inboard end of one cross beam. It can be done from the safety of the cockpit and only a little force is needed due to the folding system’s carefully balanced geometry, and the movement of the floats being mostly horizontal.
The solid aluminium folding struts have absolute control over the folding motion and prevent flexing or racking. A stainless steel bolt on the inboard end of each beam secures the floats for sailing. Crucially, wingnets remain attached during the folding process – their frictionless fixing allows them to tension themselves appropriately through the folding process. The system is so simple and balanced that Corsair trimarans can even be folded while motoring.
TRAILERING ACROSS CONTINENTS
Corsair Marine trimarans are especially weight-conscious, and sit low on their trailers meaning they have excellent trailering characteristics. They are equally easy to launch, giving you more time on the water, and the ability to expore many more remote cruising grounds or participate in regattas far from home. Some Corsair trimaran models go from trailer to water in 25 minutes, and with practice even the largest boat models can be done in 40 minutes.
Corsair 880 Trimaran | 2022 Boat Review by Multihulls World
Corsair 880 – Drive Out, Fold Out, Thrill Out, Chill Out
Australian Debut of the Corsair 880 at the Sydney International Boat Show
- Folding Corsair Trimarans: Legendary Ability, Unbeatable Reliability
- 5 Reasons Why The Corsair 760 Trimaran Won Multihull Of The Year
- Corsair Range Brochure
- Corsair Community
- Find A Dealer
Tel +84 28 3873 3630
Sales Enquiry:
Customer Service Enquiry:
© 2024 Corsair Marine International. Alls rights reserved.
Privacy Policy
Free Shipping in the US on Orders $75+
- 1-888-609-2827
Item added to your cart
The Complete List of Trimarans
There is no single trimaran that is best for everyone. Where some prefer luxury cruisers for long trips with family and friends, others might opt for a high performance racing tri for thrilling rides at breakneck speeds. With the recent spike in trimaran popularity, these days there is a perfect tri for every sailor. So to help prospective trimaran owners decide which boat is just right for them, we here at WindRider have put together a comprehensive list of the best trimarans on the market today! Read through for simple at-a-glance trimaran comparisons of boats both big and small, exhilarating and relaxing, and for all price points.
Jump to a specific sailing trimaran: Neel Weta Corsair WindRider Dragonfly Catri Astus Hobie Sea Pearl Farrier Sea Cart Multi 23 Triak SeaRail Warren Lightcraft Diam Radikal Challenger
Known for their award-winning luxury trimarans, NEEL is based in La Rochelle, the capital city of sailing in France. NEEL trimarans are built for fast cruising with an average cruising speed of about 10 knots, and are even configured to facilitate that sustained speed under motor propulsion. The NEEL 45 was notably named Cruising World’s Most Innovative Vessel in 2013, and by all accounts is an easy-to-sail, high performance boat that is just plain fun.
At a glance:
Models: NEEL 45, 65
Length: 45’ – 65’
Cost: $$$$$
Use: Luxury cruiser
A fan favorite, Weta trimarans are fast, stable, and remarkably easy to rig. This single-sailor tri has a capacity of up to three, and the ease with which it can be transported and stored makes this a great, versatile boat for beginners. The Weta was named Sailing World’s 2010 Boat of the Year, and one ride is enough to know why: simply put, the Weta is an absolute ton of fun to sail regardless of skill level.
Models: Weta
Length: 14’5”
Cost: $$ $$$
The high-end Corsair trimaran definitely holds its own in the categories of versatility, performance, and convenience. Boasting a rigging time of 30 minutes from trailer to sailor , the Corsair 42 – whose convenient folding amas makes trailering possible – is a simple option even for single sailors, though cabin space is suitable for two adults. These boats are wicked fast, capable of reaching speeds of 20+ knots, and were made for skilled sailors seeking solid construction and high performance vessels, not for beginners.
Models: Pulse 600, Sprint 750 MKII, Dash 750 MKII, Corsair 28, Cruze 970, Corsair 37, Corsair 42
Length: 19’8” – 37’
Cost: $$$$ $
Use: Sports cruisers
Built for the sailor who wants to maximize the joys of sailing while minimizing any hassle, WindRider trimarans are notoriously fast, very safe, and a blast to sail from start to finish. With several models that can hold between 1 and 6 riders, including adaptive designs to allow participation from sailors of all levels of mobility, there’s something to suit every sailor’s needs. The WindRider 17, an exhilarating ride perfect for families or camper sailors, has been known to reach speeds of up to 20mph. This easy day sailor goes from trailer to sailing in under 30 minutes and is sure to fit in perfectly with whatever adventures you have planned.
Models: WR 16, 17, Tango, Rave V
Length: 10’11” – 18’3”
Cost: $ $$$$
Use: Day sailor
The Danish-built Dragonfly trimarans come in a variety of models ranging from 25’ – 35’, all known for their spry performance, comfortable ride, and ease of use. Every model comes equipped with the unique “SwingWing” feature, a motorized system that can unfold the amas even while the boat is already underway – making it accessible to marinas and slips, and even makes trailering possible. Perfect for those who don’t want to sacrifice their comfort for high performance, the Dragonfly can breeze along at 13 knots while remaining one of the quietest compact cruisers out there.
Models: Dragonfly 25, 28, 32, 35, 1200
Length: 25’ – 39’
Designed for both safe cruising as well as for high speed racing, Catri trimarans will make your day. Especially noteworthy is the Catri 25, a stable yet wildly fast foiling trimaran with accommodations for up to 6 people. With profiles optimized for speeds of 25+ knots when foiling, this is no beginner’s sailboat. The special attention paid to stability in the foil design allows the Catri to be a single sailor vessel, even at foiling speed, with no special physical abilities. Whether you’re taking a small crew for longer rides at shuddering speeds or bringing the whole family along for a shorter, but still thrilling sail, the Catri is truly one of a kind.
Models: Catri 25
Length: 25’
Use: Cruiser/racer
A popular brand of trimaran in Europe, Astus has recently made its way to the US market to the delight of sailors on this side of the pond. Designed to offer maximum pleasure with minimum hassle, all models of Astus trimarans are fast to set up, quick on the water, inherently stable, and always a joy to sail. Their outriggers are mounted on telescopic tubes for easy stowage and towing, and can even be extended and retracted on the water for access to narrow passageways and monohull slips in marinas. With models in all sizes and price points, Astus trimarans are a great option for any sailor.
Models: Astus 16.5, 18.2, 20.2, 22, 24
Cabin: Some models
Length: 16’ – 24’
Use: Sport cruisers
HOBIE ADVENTURE ISLAND
Great for beginners and adventurers alike, the Hobie Mirage Adventure Island series is nothing if not just plain fun. With the option to use as a kayak or as a very basic trimaran, the Hobie is transportable, versatile, unintimidating, lightweight, and wonderfully affordable. The pedal system known as “Mirage Drive” allows a person to pedal the kayak using their legs for an extra kick of movement in slow winds. Amas tuck close to the main hull for docking or car-topping, adding serious ease and convenience to the exhilarating experience of the Hobie.
Models: Hobie Mirage Adventure Island, Mirage Tandem Island
Length: 16’7” – 18’6”
Use: Convertible kayak/trimarans
Best known for its use in camp cruising excursions, the Sea Pearl offers a roomy main hull and particular ability to sail in very shallow waters, making beaching and launching a breeze. The lightweight Sea Pearl trimaran is easy to tow, and the larger-than-expected cabin opens this vessel up for overnight adventures with plenty of storage space. The simple design makes the Sea Pearl notoriously low maintenance, and the ease it takes to rig and sail it add to the overall delight of owning this boat.
Models: Sea Pearl
Length: 21’
Use: Camper cruiser
Quick, lightweight, roomy, and trailerable, Farrier trimarans are made for versatility to fit every sailor’s needs. Different Farrier models are available in plan or kit boat form for those who appreciate building their boat themselves, but of course, also as the full production sail-away boat for the rest of us. Single-handed rigging and launching takes under 10 minutes from start to finish, minimizing hassle and getting you on the water fast. All non-racing Farrier designs use a minimum wind capsize speed of 30 knots or more to ensure safety for all those aboard. Add the roomy cabin and high speed capabilities to the equation and you’ve got a boat that is great fun for everyone.
Models: F-22, 24, 25, 82, 27, 28, 31, 9A, 9AX, 9R, 32, 33, 33R, 33ST, 36, 39, 41, 44R
Length: 23’ – 39’4”
Cost: $$$ $$
Use: Sport cruisers/racers
One of the biggest names in the game, SeaCart is internationally noted for its high performance trimarans that far exceed expectations for a production boat of its size. The SeaCart trimaran performs as brilliantly off the water as it does on with its super-light and efficient harbor folding system, making light work of trailering. Notoriously easy to manage and maintain, the SeaCart 26 One Design is the ultimate day racing trimaran, designed for both course and inshore/coastal distance racing. Absolutely worth the international buzz it has garnered, the SeaCart is a thrill from beginning to end.
Models: SeaCart 26
Length: 26’
A high performance racer class, the Multi 23 is a lightweight, powerful trimaran known for its wicked speed of up to 25 knots. Multi trimarans of both available configurations were designed to give beach cat thrills and speed without any of the stability or seaworthy concerns. Open ocean sailing is no issue for the Multi’s big bows, which do their job to keep her stable. Built for sailors with a need for speed, the Multi makes a perfect weekend boat for racers, especially those with a taste for boat camping.
Models: Multi 23
Length: 23’
Another dual outrigger sailing kayak/canoe design, the Triak trimaran was designed to be effortless and fun, especially for beginners. Paddle the kayak with sails furled, use the foot pedals for an extra kick of momentum, or sail with just the mainsail – the only boat in its class to feature an asymmetrical spinnaker – for exhilarating speeds and a blast on the water. Car-top the Triak anywhere for a quick sail or plan for a week long expedition, but always count on having a great time on this easy little boat.
Models: Triak
Length: 18’
Use: Convertible kayak/trimaran
SeaRail trimarans are known for being affordable, light weight, trailerable trimarans that offer the perfect combination of exciting and relaxing experiences to a wide range of sailors. Whether it’s day sailing with your family, resort or camper sailing, SeaRail trimarans are ideal leisure vessels. Leave the hassle to the other boats – the SeaRail takes you from trailer to sailor in 15 minutes. But don’t let its reputation as a leisure tri fool you: if speed is what you want, rest assured that the SeaRail can deliver that as well.
Models: SeaRail 19
WARREN LIGHTCRAFT
Warren Lightcraft trimarans , another example of a convertible kayak-to-sailboat option, are known for their aesthetically pleasing designs that are also, as the name implies, very light for simple transportation and ease of use. Convert the kayak into a fast, high performance sailboat in just minutes, fly around on the waves all day long, then simply car-top the 68lb Warren for a maximum enjoyment, low-hassle day on the water. Perfect for sailors and paddlers of all skill levels, the Warren Lightcraft is the best of both worlds and an absolute joy to sail.
Models: Warren Lightcraft
Length: 15’6”
Built strictly with racing in mind, the Diam 24 is a light, powerful one-design class trimaran and a notoriously exceptional performer. Boasting blistering speeds of up to 30 knots, Diam trimarans are not intended for beginners. For racers who crave the very best in terms of intense speeds, smooth handling and impeccable performance, the Diam is the red-hot one-design racing tri for you.
Models: Diam 24
Length: 24’
For the sailor who prefers the finer things in life, the Radikal 26 delivers. Perfect for bringing the whole family out for a day on the water, this high performance, trailerable sailing trimaran strikes the most luxurious balance between quicksilver speeds and a smooth, comfortable ride. The Radikal 26 trimaran is as convenient to transport and set up as it is pleasant to sail, with a folding system that minimizes rigging hassle and also makes this a trailerable tri. Built for a fast and comfortable sail rather than a hold-onto-your-seats thrill, one-the-water safety and overall pleasure makes the Radikal 26 what it is.
Models: Radikal 26
Use: Sport cruiser
A solidly-built, single-handed trimaran, the Challenger also doubles as an adaptive design – meaning it is made to accommodate sailors of all levels of physical mobility. Best suited to lakes, the Challenger is a very safe, seaworthy boat for sailors of all ages and experience levels. Add to this the ease of owning, transporting and maintaining the Challenger trimaran and what you get is a simple, fun sailboat perfect both for beginners and those seeking a cheap thrill alike.
Models: Challenger
At a glance comparison:
| Astus 16.5, 18.2, 20.2, 22, 24 | 16’ – 24’ | Sport cruiser | Some models | ||
| Catri 25 | 25’ | Cruiser/racer | Y | ||
| Challenger | - | Day sailor | N | ||
| Pulse 600, Sprint 750 MKII, Dash 750 MKII, Cruze 970, Corsair 28, 37, 42 | 19’8” – 37’ | Sport cruisers | Y | ||
| Diam 24 | 24’ | Racer | N | ||
| Dragonfly 25, 28, 32, 35, 1200 | 25’ – 39’ | Luxury cruiser | Y | ||
| F-22, 24, 25, 82, 27, 28, 31, 9A, 9AX, 9R, 32, 33, 33R, 33ST, 36, 39, 41, 44R | 23’ – 39’ 4” | Sport cruisers/racers | Y | ||
| Mirage Island, Mirage Tandem Island | 16’7” – 18’6” | Convertible kayak/trimarans | N | ||
| Multi 23 | 22’ | Racer | Y | ||
| NEEL 45, 65 | 44’ – 65’ | Luxury cruiser | Y | ||
| Radikal 26 | 26’ | Sport cruiser | Y | ||
| Sea Pearl | 21’ | Camper cruiser | Y | ||
| SeaCart 26 | 26’ | Racer | Y | ||
| SeaRail 19 | 18’ | Day sailor | N | ||
| Triak | 18’ | Convertible kayak/trimaran | N | ||
| Warren Lightcraft | 15’6” | Convertible kayak/trimaran | N | ||
| Weta | 14’5” | Racer | N | ||
| WR 16, 17, Tango, Rave V | 10’11” – 18’3” | Day sailor | N |
Did we miss one? Let us know. Tell us what you sail and what you like about each boat in the comments below.
Suggested Products
Related articles, astus 20.2 in the mug race.
Here is a submission by one of our Astus 20.2 owners.
The Mug race is a very popular sailboat race in North East Florida. It has been organized for well over a half decade by the Rudder Club. It is...
WindRider Supports Adaptive Sailing in Sandusky Ohio
WindRider is proud to support the ongoing efforts of Adaptive Adventures , who in conjunction with the Sandusky Sailing Club in Sandusky, Ohio, will be bringing a new Adaptive Sailing program to Sandusky Bay and the local region. The...
WR17 Sailing Adventure in Saskatchewan Canada
ELBOW RUN 2015 - The Lake Diefenbaker Experience
We extend an invitation to all WindRider enthusiasts to join us for our third Lake Diefenbaker WindRider Experience. This is a 5 day sailing/camping trip, offering excellent day time sailing along with communal...
- Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
- Opens in a new window.
Your source for the latest news on yachts, boats and more. Read through our articles to find out how to compare boats and find the right fit for you!
Best small cruising trimaran revealed
Oct 22, 2020
less than a min
A trimaran is a boat categorized as a multihull. What it means is that this particular vessel is composed of three hulls that aid the boat during sailing but also provide interior spaces for the crew and guests to enjoy.
Trimarans are very popular in the sailboat market. They are mainly appreciated for their speed but also for their cruising character that can address families’ interests as well. Trimarans allow for leveled sailing, ample deck space, stability, comfort, shallow draft, and most importantly the good old family fun time.
A small cruising trimaran is probably one of the most popular boats nowadays as it provides an affordable but also an interesting way how to spend your free time and enjoy what nature has to offer. Let’s get to the gist of it then. Which is the best small trimaran nowadays?
Most popular small cruising trimaran
The best small cruising trimaran so far remains the F22 . The F22 Trimaran is designed by Ian Farrier and built by Farrier Marine company. It features a swan design and can be purchased in two versions, racing or cruiser form. This is a small trimaran that includes many interesting features within a compact space. It has a slightly offset centerboard trunk that allows for an ample interior.
In addition, it has an ama folding system. This is an advantageous feature as it allows the ama beam strength to remain to a maximum while the interior is free from any structural support structure for the beam. Fly spray is also reduced due to the folding struts being carried higher than before in case of deployment. This feature allows the F22 trimaran to have a greater performance under sail.
This small cruising trimaran comes in two versions, either with a carbon mast or an aluminum one. In addition, it is equipped with a boomless mainsail furling rig which makes sail handling easier. Most importantly, sailing efficiency is not sacrificed in any case.
What makes this boat the best small cruising trimaran is the fact that it can be used as a cruiser due to its interior. The galley has a two-burner Origo stove, a small sink, and a stow for sailing. In addition, the companionway has a pop-top that increases the headroom. Moreover, the F22 is equipped with a small chemical toilet that is quite private due to a roll-up screen and bulkhead that can be folded. All in all, the F22 contains 4 berths and can be used by families as well.
Compare the best small trimaran with other multihulls
You can learn more about the F22 trimaran on TheBoatDB . TheBoatDB provides an organized platform that anyone can use for free with a no time limitation account or what we like to call a “Forever free account”.
You can compare the F22 to other trimarans or even catamarans and single-hull boats and see for yourself whether this boat is up to the challenge for you. In addition, you can shortlist this trimaran or select a few different boats for future references. All in all, you will get your boating life on one platform as we like to say!
You might like these too
Sailboat or Motorboat – Learn the pros and cons lg ...
Aug 24, 2022
Types of Catamaran Boats: Sailing, Power, and Luxury Catamarans lg ...
Feb 10, 2023
Which is better a wooden boat or fiberglass boat lg ...
What are the main types of sail rigs for sailboats lg ...
Which is the Best Economical Catamaran lg ...
Oct 04, 2021
What is a Chine on a Boat lg ...
Oct 01, 2021
Yachting Monthly
- Digital edition
Astus 20.5: Fast, fun and affordable trailable trimaran
- David Harding
- August 20, 2021
For fast yet undemanding sailing, easy trailing and simple camper-cruising, the Astus 20.5 trimaran is likely to find wide appeal says David Harding
The Astus 20.5 is taut and responsive to sail. Credit: David Harding
Product Overview
- Fast and easy to sail
- Can be trailed behind a small car
- Easy to reduce beam for marina berthing
- Less accommodation than a monohull of similar size
- Rigging process could be simplified
- Slightly stark interior finish
Manufacturer:
Price as reviewed:.
Boats that are small and light enough to keep in your driveway and trail to where you want to sail make a lot of sense.
One drawback, however, is that they tend to be slower than bigger boats – especially if they’re of a size and weight that allows them to be easily managed short-hand, both afloat and ashore.
If you want to sail from Poole to Weymouth for the weekend in a 20ft trailer-sailer, for example, it might take a while.
This is where speedy trailable trimarans like the Astus 20.5 come in.
When I sailed its predecessor, the 20.2, about 10 years ago, we regularly hit 15 knots on a reach without breaking sweat and maintained an easy 6.5 knots upwind.
This 20 footer can match 50 footers for speed. Credit: David Harding
You can cover a lot of ground at those sorts of speeds.
I first met the Astus 20.5 at the Düsseldorf Boat Show in 2019. Since it’s a newer boat and designed by no less a design team than VPLP, I had high hopes that it would offer even more than the 20.2.
Quite apart from the sailing potential, the trailing is as simple as can be with a boat like this.
If you choose the resin-infused hull, the Astus 20.5 weighs under 500kg (1,100lb), or just over 500kg with the standard solid laminate.
The lighter weight means you can use an unbraked trailer , saving money, maintenance and yet more weight, so you can trail it behind a normal hatchback vehicle.
Getting somewhere fast under sail is one thing. Having somewhere to sleep when you arrive is another.
The Astus 20.5 is simple to sail for two people. Credit: David Harding
Though its cabin is smaller than on a monohull of similar size, the Astus provides seating, stowage and space for a companionable couple to be able to stretch out.
Then of course you have the trampolines each side on which you can rig a tent for more sleeping space.
The opportunity for a sail on the Astus 20.5 finally came when Hein Kuiper of Boats On Wheels brought his first demonstrator to the UK.
In fact we went out twice – first for a photo session in Poole on a brisk winter’s day and then a few months later in Chichester Harbour.
Since the boat arrived in Poole on its trailer, I was able to see how it went together.
Pulling out the hulls is pretty straightforward: their aluminium beams slide in and out of the fixed beams on the main hull. You can do that ashore or afloat.
There’s nothing complicated about raising the rig, either, and it can all be done singlehanded .
The whole process, from arriving with the trailer to sliding the boat into the water, took Hein a couple of hours or so the first time or two (comparable with a monohull of similar size, he reckons) but would undoubtedly get quicker with practice.
Continues below…
Video: Trailer sailing made easy
Not even Alex Thompson aboard his Hugo Boss rocket ship can sail to windward at 60 miles an hour. As…
Coast 250: The mighty micro cruiser
Producing a boat that planes under power and sails like a thoroughbred has been an elusive quest for decades. Has…
Dragonfly 28 Sport
Whether you choose the standard or the Sport version, the mast is the same height.
The difference is that the latter comes with a square-top mainsail to give appreciably more sail area.
If you want to save as much weight as possible and make raising and lowering the mast easier, you can have it in carbon. A wing mast is another option.
The rig and hardware don’t appear to be modified in any way as a concession to the boat’s trailer-sailer nature.
Here and there, the odd ready-made loop or strop would save fiddling around with bits of line.
It is basic down below but there’s seating and sleeping space for two people. Credit: David Harding
All that is forgotten as soon as you’re under way.
On our second outing, once the electric outboard had pushed us out of Northney Marina – where the boat proved to be surprisingly manoeuvrable with the centreplate fully down – we headed off on a beam reach at 12.5 knots in 12-15 knots of wind.
In most boats, 12.5 knots would be going some. In this 20-footer, it felt perfectly relaxed.
Over the course of the following couple of hours we covered every point of sail including, of course, reaching under spinnaker.
With the gusts rarely exceeding 16 knots in the flat water of the harbour, we didn’t quite manage to break 15 knots.
It wasn’t a bad speed-to-effort ratio nonetheless.
The boat felt rock solid the whole time, and I knew from the photo session in Poole that she could carry the kite on a beam reach in appreciably more wind than we had in Chichester.
It is easy to reduce the beam of the Astus 20.5 for marina berthing. Credit: David Harding
It’s hard to imagine that 20 knots wouldn’t be perfectly achievable.
Upwind we maintained between 7 and 8.5 knots most of the time.
As you would expect, you need to keep the bow down a little to maintain full power.
You also need the purchase of the 6:1 mainsheet to maintain sufficient tension in the upper leech. It makes a big difference.
You won’t need more than two people to go out and have fun on the Astus 20.5. Credit: David Harding
Tacking was pretty positive provided we had adequate boatspeed going into the tack, and leeway appeared minimal.
All told the Astus 20.5 was great fun to sail and easy to manage two-handed.
There was little for a third person to do except enjoy the ride or contribute to the righting moment by joining the helmsman on the windward trampoline.
If you were racing, you could use a longer tiller extension and fit toe-straps to maximise the advantage.
Beating our way back up the harbour, we demonstrated the windward ability of the Astus 20.5 by sailing straight past a 15m (49ft) monohull.
Creature comforts aboard the Astus 20.5
David Harding has been testing boats for decades and is also a sailing photographer
Above decks the Astus offers a vast amount of sitting and lounging space thanks to the trampolines.
Down below, the hull’s narrow beam makes things cosy but you still find a seat either side, space for a chemical toilet under the aft end of the berth and a fair amount of stowage beneath and to either side of the companionway.
The centreboard is offset to port to leave the middle of the boat clear.
The finish is simple and uncomplicated, largely to save weight. There would be plenty of scope to fit a slide-out galley and devise lightweight stowage solutions to make better use of the space.
Astus 20.5: the test verdict
More than anything else, this boat is tremendous fun.
She feels taut and responsive to sail. I found that it took an hour or so to begin to find her sweet spots, but after that she just makes you want to sail her.
She inspires confidence and is easy to handle, too. In most conditions you could manage perfectly well single-handed and for cruising you won’t need more than two.
The Astus 20.5 has less accommodation than a monohull of similar size
Then there’s the speed. No matter whether or not you’re in a hurry to get anywhere, it’s easier to slow down in a fast boat than to speed up in a slow one.
Speed is fun in itself, and it’s hard not to enjoy sailing straight past a monohull more than twice your length.
Niggles are relatively few.
I thought the rudder blade could do with a touch more balance and I wasn’t sure that the fixed end of the 2:1 jib sheet was quite far enough aft on deck.
Other than that, it all works.
Hardware is mostly from Harken and the spars are by Sélden, so there’s no skimping in these departments.
Would she suit you and your crew?
The Astus 20.5 will attract attention. Several people stopped for a chat and to admire her back in Northney having seen her on the water.
If you’re a dinghy sailor moving up but not ready to slow down, this is a good choice.
Just as much interest is coming from big-boat sailors moving down or wanting a second, smaller boat that still has a good cruising range. Few boats of this size go so fast with so little effort.
The Astus 20.5 is ideal for exploring harbours, estuaries and rivers
As for the inevitable monohull-versus-multihull debate, there are trailable, family-friendly boats of this size with one hull that sail very nicely.
I have clocked over 12 knots in one or two, but only under spinnaker, with good sailors on board and not for sustained periods.
As long as you’re prepared to accept that sailing regularly at double-figure speeds means sacrificing some interior volume, the Astus could suit you perfectly. And for exploring harbours and estuaries, camper-cruising and nudging into the beach, it’s absolutely ideal.
For all the latest from the sailing world, follow our social media channels Facebook, Twitter and Instagram .
Have you thought about taking out a subscription to Yachting Monthly magazine?
Subscriptions are available in both print and digital editions through our official online shop Magazines Direct and all postage and delivery costs are included.
- Yachting Monthly is packed with all the information you need to help you get the most from your time on the water.
- Take your seamanship to the next level with tips, advice and skills from our expert skippers and sailors
- Impartial in-depth reviews of the latest yachts and equipment will ensure you buy the best whatever your budget
- If you are looking to cruise away with friends Yachting Monthly will give you plenty of ideas of where to sail and anchor
[email protected]
Tracer 1500TRi
Introducing the new 1500tri, the first member of the new tracer series of performance cruising trimarans from schionning designs. designed to blend the performance of a trimaran with liveable interior accommodation and create a stable, aesthetically-pleasing cruising platform that can take you anywhere in the world..
The 1500TRi exterior is a little different to many of the standard trimaran designs we've become accustomed to. Large spacious cockpit areas are located on either side of the cabin, with the helm stations positioned wide on the aft beam giving excellent visibility forward, as well as clear sight of sails and telltales. Lines run aft to the helms with winches and sail controls mounted close by for ease of operation. The large cockpit areas will be fantastic for swimming, sunbathing, storing dinghies & equipment plus just a great spot while underway.
A 19 metre mast can be rotating carbon or a standard alloy option, but with the performance aspect of this design carbon is recommended. she has fixed rudders on the floats, however this will not be an issue and she will still be able to beach easily. kick-up rudders are an option if desired and depending on your intended use for the boat. a single 30-40hp diesel is the recommended motor option., contact us for more info, exterior cad.
Interior cad
For more information please download our Study Plans on this design using the link below.
Tracer 1500tri - study plans & drawings.
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
Like other trimarans under the Dragonfly brand, this 25-foot (7.62-meter) trimaran is great for both racing and short term cruising. However, this high-performance boat delivers easy handling, making it perfect for couples looking to take a ride out over the weekend and seasoned sailors looking for an exhilarating racing adventure.
Trimaran yachts are large, sailing vessels usually used for time-honored on-the-water activities. These sailing vessels have a rich legacy as vessels that are sought-after due to their bigger draft and exceedingly wide beam, characteristics that make them exceptionally great for overnight cruising and day sailing.
Trimaran. Ideal for overnight cruising and day sailing these Trimaran boats vary in length from 17ft to 78ft and can carry 4 to 15 passengers. There are a wide range of Trimaran boats for sale from popular brands like Corsair, Neel and Dragonfly with 50 new and 96 used and an average price of $252,140 with boats ranging from as little as $9,289 and $1,539,078.
The goal was to design a performance cruising multihull that was light, strong, durable, easy to sail, and shippable (since Rapido builds in Vietnam and needs to deliver to owners around the world). ... Above: The Rapido 60 Trimaran Sailing Yacht's hull is sleek and sporty design for performance while still being a comfortable long range ...
Rapido 40: The Alternative Trimaran, by François-Xavier de Crécy with photos by Ludovic Fruchaud, LE MONDE DU MULTICOQUE #24 by Voile Magazine. July, 2024. The Rapido 40 is a 20 knot cruising tri, George Day, Cruising Compass, 24 May, 2023; Boat Review of Rapido 40, Zuzana Prochazka, Sail Magazine, 4 May 2023
Sailing World Magazine's Best Multihull of 2024 is the Dragonfly 40 trimaran, a luxury and high-performance sailboat designed and built for experienced bluewater sailors and cruisers.
Corsair Marine trimarans are especially weight-conscious, and sit low on their trailers meaning they have excellent trailering characteristics. They are equally easy to launch, giving you more time on the water, and the ability to expore many more remote cruising grounds or participate in regattas far from home.
This is the kind of space a professional captain would be proud of. If only four cabins are spec'd, there's also significant garage space where to stow all the equipment and necessities of long-range cruising. Above: The engine room on the 2022 LEEN 56 Trimaran. Photo by Olivier Blanchet / LEEN-TRIMARANS via Aeroyacht Ltd. in Long Island.
Runner-up: Rapido Trimarans 40. The Rapido 40 is a high tech, all-carbon, performance cruiser with a self-tacking jib, carbon spreaderless mast and an option for a roller furling boom. Walter Cooper. The design brief for the Rapido 40 is straightforward: fast cruising and racing for a couple or crew; ocean-ready but able to sail and moor in ...
Cruising World Judges named the Neel 47 trimaran the Best Full-Size Multihull for 2020. In the large multihull class, at least for 2020, the Neel 47 proved that three hulls are better than two. The Eagle Class 53 was easily the most unique boat in the long history of Boat of the Year. Jon Whittle. It's hard to imagine three vessels, in a ...
NEEL trimarans are built for fast cruising with an average cruising speed of about 10 knots, and are even configured to facilitate that sustained speed under motor propulsion. The NEEL 45 was notably named Cruising World's Most Innovative Vessel in 2013, and by all accounts is an easy-to-sail, high performance boat that is just plain fun.
Trimaran sail trim. One of the biggest differences between a cruising monohull and a multihull is how the mainsail is trimmed. Leech tension on a yacht is often largely controlled by the kicker and the backstay, while the mainsheet sheets the mainsail in and out, predominantly controlling the angle of the boom to the centreline, and there may be a short traveller.
The best small cruising trimaran so far remains the F22. The F22 Trimaran is designed by Ian Farrier and built by Farrier Marine company. It features a swan design and can be purchased in two versions, racing or cruiser form. This is a small trimaran that includes many interesting features within a compact space.
ENGINE: 2.5-5hp. TRANSMISSION: OUTBOARD. DESIGNER: Jean-Hubert Pommois/VPLP. BUILDER: Astus Boats, France. WEBSITE: www.astusboats.com. For fast yet undemanding sailing, easy trailing and simple camper-cruising, the Astus 20.5 trimaran is likely to find wide appeal says David Harding.
Neel builds its trimarans at its yard in La Rochelle, France. The 43 is the smallest model in a five-boat range that goes up to 65 feet. The 43 is a Marc Lombard design. One large and connected living space defines the Neel 43's interior design, which is visible from hull to hull. Jon Whittle.
Trimaran. Introducing the new 1500TRi, the first member of the new Tracer Series of performance cruising trimarans from Schionning Designs. Designed to blend the performance of a trimaran with liveable interior accommodation and create a stable, aesthetically-pleasing cruising platform that can take you anywhere in the world. Specifications.
trimaran preowned sailboats for sale by owner. trimaran used sailboats for sale by owner.
The small size makes it more suitable for daysailing in good weather rather than multiday cruising, although more experienced sailors will of course push the limits of this boat. 6. WindRider 17. The 17.4-foot (5.3-meter) WindRider 17 is one of the more versatile trimarans in the market.
Find Trimaran boats for sale in United States. Offering the best selection of boats to choose from.
About Rapido. The idea behind building the world's best ocean-cruising trimarans came from the team that has built more than 1,500 production trimarans globally. The world-acclaimed Morrelli & Melvin was then tasked with developing the design and engineering for Rapido to start building! Separately, for those who think our advanced lightweight ...
Marlin trimarans are innovative and hightech carbon multihulls. With a sailing performance far beyond standard. Probably the fastest trailerable and foldable sailing racer-cruiser trimaran on the Planet. Perfectly made for single- and double-handed racing and cruising. Great for team and family adventures.
3 Small, Sporty Trimarans. The experience provided by three hulls will be uniquely different aboard this trio of thoroughly modern trimarans, the Telstar 28, the Dragonfly 35, and the Corsair 31. A boat review from our November 2008 issue. When it comes to cruising multihulls, the trimaran often plays second fiddle.
In the U.S., American Cruise Lines offers a diverse selection of itineraries, from sailings on the Columbia and Snake Rivers to round-trip cruises from Washington, D.C. Viking also has a ship ...
It's always a good idea to put together a little first-aid kit, should any emergencies arise. Marsden says, "Very few people actually experience seasickness aboard a cruise ship, but it doesn ...
The Dragonfly 25 is available in two versions, a Touring version for family cruising and the more powerful and dynamic Sport version for racing in the fast lane. The boat is a multifunctional multihull and can easily be sailed and handled single-handed. You can keep the boat moored folded in a normal narrow marina slip or even drysail the boat.
Launched in 1972, Carnival Cruise Line is one of nine cruise lines owned by parent company Carnival Corporation & plc. It's the company's largest cruise line, with 27 ships. Its cruises typically ...
The Windelo 54 has been named Multihull of the Year for 2024 in the Premiere category at the International Multihull Show in France. ... The Windelo 54, which has electric motors for more sustainable cruising, is built with an eco-responsible composite that reportedly reduces the environmental footprint of the production process by 47 percent. ...
Trimaran equips models listed with inboard drive power options, available with diesel and gas propulsion systems. Sought-after for their Multi-Hull, power-other and Racer, the Trimaran boats listed generally have a deeper draft and exceedingly wide beam, traits that make them popular and an ideal choice for day cruising, sailing and watersports.