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Why This New Trimaran Has So Many Problems

Welcome back to Trimaran Life.  Last time we embarked on a voyage down the coast of South Carolina, aboard our friend’s 47ft NEEL Trimaran. But, as with all seafaring voyages, we encountered our fair share of challenges and discovered more than a few issues with the boat.

Some of you were left wondering why this sleek and shiny new vessel seemed to be plagued with so many problems.  But, as seasoned sailors know all too well, no boat is immune to the harsh realities of life at sea.

But fear not, we don’t shy away from a challenge! Today, we are joining forces with the owners of the Trimaran, Katy and Craig, as we set out to tackle some of these issues. But, as with any boat project, things are bound to go awry, and not everything goes according to plan.

Plus, we’ll also dive into the reasons behind their move from their Nautitech 40 Catamaran to the NEEL 47 and whether they miss anything about their old boat.

So, gather your tools, roll up your sleeves and join us for some problem-solving. It’s time to get this Trimaran shipshape again!

⛽Cool Fuel Transfer Pump

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🥝Athletic Greens!

• Get your 1-year supply of Vitamin D3K2 + 5 travel packs FREE with your first purchase at: https://athleticgreens.com/gonewiththewynns

S/V Supernova

Supernova is a NEEL 47 Trimaran.  You can see a full tour of her here: gonewiththewynns.com/sailing-trimaran-full-tour and if you want to continue to follow her journey with Katy and Craig, you can find them here: instagram.com/sailing.supernova/

🎥 CAMERA GEAR USED TO FILM THIS VIDEO

• gonewiththewynns.com/photo-video-gear

🎶 MUSIC IN THIS VIDEO

• Artists – Ge Filter Fish, Yarin Primak, Francesco D’Andrea

🙏 WE COULDN’T MAKE THESE VIDS WITHOUT YOU!

Thank you for watching!  Ups, downs, and all around, we share it all. If you like what you see, there are lots of  ways you can show your support.

Hello there! I honestly don’t know what to say, so I am going to tell you a bunch of random facts instead. I'm a fish eating vegetarian who hates spiders and loves snakes. I almost never took vacations growing up. I wanted to be Pippi Longstocking (still do). I misspell about every other word I write and still struggle with grammar. I love splurging on a good high tea (which is really hard to find these days). And whatever you do, don’t tell me I can’t do something, because then I'll HAVE to do it!

Comments (12)

I have to ask, Nikki, what brand is your cropped sweater/where did you get it? SO CUTE!

“It’s cold in Florida and you’re still wearing shorts” at 9:50. That’s why I moved from Rochester, NY to Pensacola. I’ve moved from where “damn cold” is 5 degrees F to where “damn cold” is 5 degrees C. Loving the Forida life. Nice part of a boat is that you can follow the warm weather up and down the coast. Fair winds and following seas.

Spelling and grammar looks good to me.

Ha ha, thanks for the double-check.

Just a suggestion. When using the allen wrenches on the bolts, the short end gives you the torque you need to break the bolt loose. Then swap ends on the wrench so you can spin the bolt out without removing the wrench each half turn.

Alan Solomon

I was surprised there were only 3 comments. Whaaaaaaaaaattt is that all about?? This was a great video. I am very fond of most dogs. I found myself smiling when you interacted with Yosh the pup. I liked it when you made your list and completed each item, one at a time. Jason kept at it with the leaky hatch and solved it, it seemed. That is an organized group! It is sort of a shocker that you are here in the U.S. We are all used to you being out in the open ocean or on some far away tropical island surrounded by blue, clear water. Even though you are on the opposite coast of me, it is still great to have you here in the U.S. You might be jet setters but definitely boat setters. 👍🐶 Best Regards, Happy and Joyous.

Always looking forward to Sunday with the Wynns. Love your new four legged friend. I have to ask, what breed of dog is Oshimi or is she a mix?

Nice. Interesting and amusing Jason is so happy with the electric fuel transfer from the Jugs to the tanks. Amusing part of that was as he moves the pump to the other jug he says “Boom”. At the beginning I wonder if the dog was excited to get to the boat or off of the dinghy?

Jason is easy to please after so many years on faraway islands with few supplies. 🤣 As for Yoshimi the boat dog, she is also easy to please. Loves the dinghy, loves the boat, loves land!

What a fantastic plan you all have made! The charming owners get to go home to Scotland and you kids to to Boat/Dog sit, perfect! What a beautiful boat she is too. About how long will they be away? Are you kids planning on going back to the Bahamas again?

John Marquis

Love this video today… surprise to see that you didn’t know how to rethread a bolt by using a tap and threading tool they sell on Amazon for re-threading bolts and tabs. You just need to make sure if it’s metric or American standard bolt type.

We’ve rethreaded in the past but it’s not our boat and the owner didn’t have one. It’s hard to carry everything on a small boat.

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NEEL Trimaran Problems And Is It Worth It?

The best trimaran features exceptional stability and resistance. NEEL Trimaran has some excellent products that ensure smooth sailing over the seaways. 

Moreover, NEEL Trimaran offers a wide hull that maintains the balance between resistance and stability. The massive hull ensures ninety percent of the boat’s buoyancy and balance.

The two notable advantages of NEEL Trimaran are high speed and a large deck area. Besides, other unique features separate NEEL Trimaran from other top brands. 

However, NEEL Trimaran has also faced criticism for some major problems in its construction. Some significant issues of NEEL Trimaran are discussed in this article. 

Issues with NEEL Trimaran 

You acquired some brief ideas about the NEEL Trimaran from the introduction. Now it’s time to discuss some of its significant drawbacks in detail.

• Leakage Problem 

One of the core problems of every trimaran, including NEEL is its leakage system. Customers have often faced hassle while fixing the damage in the middle of the sea. 

The ultra-light leakage and sewage system make it difficult for the boatman to control the heavy water pumps. As a result, the system often bursts out and causes leakage problems. 

Therefore, you must check the sewage line and other fittings of NEEL Trimaran before purchasing the product. Otherwise, you might face severe casualties in the middle of your journey. 

Also Read: Differences Between Stingray And Sea Ray Boats .

• Structural Damage 

The second problem of NEEL Trimaran is its framework and construction. The lightweight materials and wooden decks have less durability and endurance capability. 

As a result, you might face unwanted crises like leakage problems and an imbalance of the windshield. Besides, the irregular surface of NEEL Trimaran breaks down easily by hitting a massive rock of similar substances. 

Therefore, you should consult an experienced engineer before purchasing the NEEL Trimana. 

• Electronic Malfunction 

NEEL trimarans have a few genuine detractors that cause electronic malfunction inside the vehicle. Due to such complexity, you might need to bear extra repair costs and purchase other electronic tools. 

Moreover, you might need help maintaining the whole deck and the current supply of NEEL trimaran. Overall, the process is quite hectic, and you may require a lot of handing hands to install the whole machine. 

Hence, checking the product’s specifications thoroughly before purchasing will be wise. 

• Lack of Experience 

Trimanas are comparatively new to the seaway vehicle market. Therefore, it lacks the advanced technology and touch of modernism. 

You will hardly find any trimarans for commercial use. Most of the products are used for military purposes. Such lack of exposure causes a hint of weariness among the operators. 

Therefore, you must consult or take an expert before using the NEEL trimaran. 

You have to worry about your bill if you purchase NEEL trimarans. Due to excess design and specifications, you have to bear the heavy expense. 

NEEL trimaran’s cross deck requires a lengthy design process that will eat a lot of money. Moreover, you must purchase a few extra materials to construct the boat. 

After including the installation cost, you must hire an expert for the final examination. Overall, that’s an expensive process. 

You can avoid the problems mentioned above through regular inspections, proper maintenance, and timely repair. 

Is NEEL Trimaran Worth It?

Even though NEEL trimarans have some drawbacks, it also provides numerous benefits. The exclusive and unique features of NEEL trimaran make it worth all your money.

• Excellent High Speed 

When it comes to high-speed trimarans, NEEL trimarans have ensured a good reputation in the market. 

NEEL trimarans have recorded about 10 knots of cruising speed, and the vehicle can achieve 200 nautical miles quickly. 

In addition, when the breeze is fast, the NEEL trimaran has recorded 15 to 18 knots of cruising speed. This proves the high-speed capability of the vehicle compared to other top brands. 

• Seakeeping Capability 

The long length of the NEEL trimaran is helpful for seakeeping.

You can reduce the pitch motion and chances of slamming by using the narrow center hull. 

Moreover, the side amas reduce roll motions and help the trimaran to keep balance in rough situations.

They also add stiffness to the vehicle to prevent roll motion. 

Together NEEL trimaran has the best construction for seakeeping capabilities. 

• Large Deck Area

NEEL trimaran has a unique desk design that enables a large area for your convenience. There is a vast space between the main hull and the side amas that ensures the longevity of NEEL trimarans. 

Compared to catamarans, NEEL trimarans provide enough space for comfort and safe travel. 

• Damage Survival 

NEEL trimaran may cause leakage problems and structural damage. However, the product also has a fast solution for its damage survival. 

The side amas of NEEL trimarans provide superior protection to the center hull, and the cross deck helps the survivors by storing massive reserves. 

The cross deck becomes a large barge during any catastrophe that supports the entire ship’s weight. Due to this reserve buoyancy, you can sail along the shores with peace of mind. 

If you are sailing on a catamaran, chances are you might face severe accidents due to its instability. NEEL trimarans are safe regarding full stability and balance. 

The submerging amas of NEEL trimarans ensure the total stability of the boat so that you can enjoy a safe sailing experience. 

Also Read: Comparing Hunter 260 With MacGregor 26 Sailboat .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Yes, despite some drawbacks, NEEL trimarans offer plenty of benefits and advantages that will ease your sailing experience. 

You can beach a NEEL trimaran to protect your children and pets while sailing. 

A trimaran is safer than a catamaran in rough seas and oceans. 

NEEL trimarans have recorded around 10 knots of cruising speed, which makes them fast trimarans. 

Conclusion 

To sum it up, knowing about the NEEL trimaran problems will help you to take the necessary precautions before purchasing the product. 

Besides the drawbacks, NEEL trimarans offer plenty of benefits and exceptional features. 

You can place your bets on the NEEL trimaran to enjoy a long-lasting sailing experience.

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Neel 47 Trimaran Review

Here is our review of the New Neel 47 Trimaran. This lightweight and fast cruiser should tick all the boxes as a stable, bluewater cruiser.

The review is solely based on what we could see on the day. It is NOT a professional opinion, simply our observations and what we were able to film on the day.

As we state in the video, we accept that this boat was not show ready and could have been shown in a better condition. We were contacted by Neel and had an opportunity to go and see them in La Rochelle, where they are based. Here are our takeaways from that meeting:

We went to visit the Neel factory and Neel 47, Hull 6. The boat was ready to be shipped to Japan, so had passed final inspection. The mast and spars were unstepped, but we got to see a boat that they were ready to release. These are our thoughts on Neel 47, Hull 6 and our visit.

1. Firstly thank you to Barbara and Elodie (coms. manager and the wife of the CEO) for taking the time to show us around. They were very gracious to talk to us. They were also very kind and showed us the factory and the facilities.

2. They wouldn’t let us film the factory or conduct a formal interview. That’s fair enough, most companies don’t.

3. They were very kind to show us hull no 6 of the Neel 47 range, which is shipping to Japan tomorrow. We filmed this.

4. They have addressed the issues with the steps in the hulls. They are now metal and welded. Still no toilets in the outer hulls as standard. These are an optional extras, although i cant see where they would be placed. This leaves one toilet as standard for a 6 berth boat.

5. Unfortunately the fit out was as poor in places as we previously saw. There was even more mastic in holes than last time. They stated  that their focus was providing their customers with the ” the trimaran experience”, and that in the future they may turn their focus to a better finish.

6. Regarding the boat we viewed at LGM. Neel state that that was a prototype. This we accept. However the prototype was sold and so is now in private ownership. Possibly something lost in translation, but we would simply call this hull number 1.

7. We hoped to be able to put out another video to address the shortcomings in the first video. However, doubling down on these issues of build quality and fit out is possibly not going to do Neel any favours.

All in all my impressions were that Neel are a company that are trying to innovate and push the boundaries for sailors. The concept is fantastic, but the execution needs work. Both Elodie and Barbara stated that as the boat evolves, they hope the fit will change. We genuinely hope it does.

Have your say: https://www.chicagostreet.com/rubyrose/

Nick & Terysa

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Nice Job , detailed observation, Neel folks seem just not ready…I am sure they are embarrassed…. Gee I feel bad for them ! Keep up the good work.. David La Jolla ,CA

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Three hulls better than two – how the Neel 51 trimaran is challenging its many twin-hulled competitors

• Toby Hodges
• June 6, 2017

The Neel 51 may have turned plenty of heads at La Grande-Motte boat show in April, but can three hulls really offer the style and accommodation expected these days of a luxury performance multihull?

Neel has found a clever niche offering the performance benefits of a trimaran with the type of accommodation offered in a cruising catamaran. This new trimaran, the Neel 51, was the most talked-about multihull at La Grand-Motte boat show in April, and of the year so far.

The La Rochelle company argues its trimarans are more stable than cruising catamarans. Cats, it says, reach their peak righting moment at 12º heel, beyond which sail needs to be reduced.

That peak for a tri, however, is not until 27º heel – an unusually steep angle for cruising. Neel also argues that trimarans are faster, particularly upwind, thanks to a more rigid forestay (attached to centre hull) and more central weight management.

The Joubert-Nivelt design incorporates the best assets of Neel’s previous 45 and 65 models – that of performance and comfort in a bluewater family yacht – and adds even more space for its size.

The Neel 51 is quite a beast in the flesh. Her 9m beam (26cm wider than a Lagoon 52) helps support Neel’s signature coachroof design above the hulls and contributes to sumptuous living space.

Fine reverse bows give confidence in her ability to perform. Neel argues the 181sq m upwind sail area on the 51 is larger than any other equivalent cruising cat – yet its 107sq m usable space (living and storage combined) is much larger than competitors too.

This design primarily targets living space however. A focal point of the 51 is its sliding doors that stow away completely to leave an open, single-level cockpit and interior saloon. It is a concept that Neel has dubbed ‘cockloon’ – a strange-sounding word that fails to significantly differentiate this from the likes of catamarans by Bali and Nautitech, which are also based on these open designs.

The word does, however, help draw attention to a wonderfully large inside/outside saloon area. Neel President Eric Bruneel pointed out how the stiffness of three hulls allows for such a wide open bulkhead.

“We really wanted to have the cockpit working with the saloon,” he told me. Unfortunately, the downside of his ‘cockloon’ solution is the small external cockpit space.

The main deck level includes a vast galley forward (with prime views), and, as per past Neel models, the owner’s cabin shares this amazing deck-level outlook. The other three double cabins are all large and each comes with its own heads. Two forward berths can also be specified.

I particularly appreciated the mechanical/engine room below the saloon. It is like a ship’s engine room, with 7ft headroom, plumbing on one side, electrics to the other and the single saildrive contained in its own area aft. Bruneel argues that one prop pushing one hull is more efficient than typical catamaran set-ups and says the 75hp saildrive propels her at a cruising speed of 9 knots.

Fitted-out on the water the Neel 51 weighs 15 tonnes – over 10 tonnes lighter than the Lagoon 52, but a similar weight to the new Catana 53. The first 51 to launch reportedly achieved 290 miles in 24 hours during the first delivery, with jib and three reefs – and will hit the mid-teens with relative ease.

Neel’s build quality has also seen much-needed improvement with this new model. The three hulls are infused in one shot. That requires ten days to prepare the 160sq m of moulds for a two-hour infusion. As Bruneel admits, it’s a big step-up in technology for them.

Neel has built 23 of its 45ft model and is now building one boat every two months in its new La Rochelle facility.

Neel 51 Specifications

LOA: 15.60m (51ft) Beam: 8.9m (29ft 2in) Draught: 1.50m (4ft 9in) Displacement: 14 tonnes

Price: €700k ex VAT

www.neel-trimarans.com

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Neel 43 review: re-birth of the cruising trimaran

• David Harding
• June 23, 2023

If you’re torn between the performance of a trimaran and the accommodation of a cruising cat, the Neel 43 might offer a solution, says David Harding

Product Overview

Price as reviewed:.

For anyone who doesn’t follow the world of multihulls , it might be easy to imagine that catamarans are for cruising and trimarans are for racing. After all, two hulls offer vast potential for living space, both inside and out.

Many cats have expanded in all directions to take full advantage of that, becoming high, wide and, some might think, not particularly elegant. Trimarans, on the other hand, are the light, spindly ones that fly around at high speed while giving you no accommodation. Right?

So you might think. After all, that’s how things were once upon a time. My father used to describe the typical cruising cats of the day as ‘Dutch barns.’ Our own family cruiser when I was growing up was one of John Westell’s ‘swing-wing’ Ocean Bird 30ft trimarans. When we sold it, the new owner invited me to help him sail it to the Caribbean – so we did.

In those days the Ocean Bird was one of relatively few cruising tris, following those from the 1950s and 1960s by multihull pioneers such as Arthur Piver. Then there was Norman Cross who, like Piver, designed many of his tris with solid wings (decks between the floats and the main hull), allowing full-width accommodation out to the floats.

Since those early years of the production cruising trimaran, when three hulls helped to establish the names of Derek Kelsall, John Shuttleworth, Walter Green, Lock Crowther and Dick Newick among others, solid wings have largely disappeared.

Racing trimarans have beams (akas) joining their slim hulls, while some of the later-generation multi-purpose tris designed with marina berthing (or trailing) in mind have had floats that fold in – just as the Ocean Bird did in the late 1960s. A few had solid wings combined with folding floats, such as Tony Smith’s Telstar 26 from the 1970s.

Sail controls are led to a pair of winches at the helm. Photo: David Harding

Two hulls or three?

For all the twists and turns in the evolution of the trimaran, it’s the catamaran that has managed more successfully to adapt to the differing needs of cruising and racing sailors. Some cats only have beams and trampolines between the hulls. Others could easily accommodate a sauna, a gym and several four-poster beds.

At mainstream boat shows we mostly see the cruising and charter cats – all that deck and living space is a charter-operator’s dream – but there are plenty of alternatives, such as the Dazcats, Rapiers, Gunboats, Outremers and Schionnings, for example, that place the emphasis firmly on performance.

This brief dash through multihull history leaves us with one big question: what happened to the solid-wing trimaran? Didn’t Nigel Tetley actually complete his solo circumnavigation in the 1968 Golden Globe race in just such a boat? Yes he did, just as Donald Crowhust didn’t (not the boat’s fault), but some things are too readily forgotten.

So why is it that most trimarans designed in the past 30 years have limited their accommodation to the main hull? Unless marina-berthing is a constraint, why not extend it between the hulls as on a catamaran?

Offset well to starboard, the helm station leaves the enormous cockpit space clear for non-working crew. Photo: David Harding

Cross and Piver were among the designers who did exactly that, and many of their creations are still sailing. In the Canaries before setting off across the Atlantic on the Ocean Bird we became friendly with an American family on a Cross 46, and very spacious it was too. We also met Geoff Pack, long before he became editor of Yachting Monthly, on his 30ft Wharram cat. We were all heading west.

This background, together with a fair few miles sailed on a whole host of cruising and racing multihulls, meant that I was more than a little interested when Neel trimarans started to appear from a factory in La Rochelle about 14 years ago. Here was a modern-day, solid-wing trimaran with full-width accommodation that took on the big cats and, in some ways, beat them at their own game.

A hatch in the bow gives access to the anchor locker. Photo: David Harding

Of course, how you see a trimaran in relation to a cat depends on a multitude of factors, but Neel is keen to point out some of the tri’s virtues.

One is that a trimaran feels more like a monohull in many respects, most of the weight being carried by the centre hull. The Neel’s hull is rockered and, with its single low aspect-ratio (LAR) keel (as opposed to a keel or daggerboard on each hull with a cat), it’s easier to tack. The floats are only lightly immersed at rest, so as soon as the boat starts sailing in any breeze the windward hull lifts clear of the water to minimise wetted area.

A single rudder should give a more direct feel to the helm, addressing one of the monohull sailor’s common gripes about catamarans in the form of a rather muted feel. Then there’s rig tension: it’s easier to achieve in a trimaran because the forestay is anchored to the bow of the main hull.

The right moment

On the issue of stability, catamaran enthusiasts will sometimes cite research showing that, in extremis, the twin-hulled form is more likely to see you through severe conditions than a monohull or a trimaran. Neel’s argument is that a catamaran achieves its maximum righting moment at about 12° of heel, beyond which it reduces rapidly. A trimaran like the Neel, by contrast, heels more progressively and reaches its maximum righting moment at closer to 30°, giving you more warning before it becomes over-pressed.

In addition to this, the concentration of weight in the centre hull should contribute to stability as well as reduced pitching, while the greater beam and the closer relative positions of the centre of gravity and centre of buoyancy should make for a smoother motion in a beam sea.

Arguments about the relative pros and cons of trimarans and catamarans will often be batted back and forth. So many people have or have had a foot in both camps. Eric Bruneel, the man behind Neel trimarans, used to work with Fountaine Pajot (catamarans). Multihull designers are often known for both cats and tris. MI Cats, the UK dealers for Neel, are also Fountaine Pajot dealers.

Few builders, sailors or designers of multihulls would unequivocally support two hulls while dismissing three, or vice versa.

As for the 43 itself, it’s a big, wide boat, with a beam that’s about 2ft (0.6m) greater than that of a typical catamaran of the same length. Nonetheless, at 9 tonnes it’s surprisingly light. You can see why by looking below decks: it’s fitted out very simply, with just enough in the way of trim and furnishings to stop it feeling too stark.

A reef in the main and a couple of rolls in the headsail balanced the boat nicely and led to a light and responsive helm. Photo: David Harding

You feel the power-to-weight ratio when you’re sailing. I headed out with MI Cats’ demonstrator on a brisk autumn day with the breeze hovering around 20 knots much of the time, and the boat didn’t hang about.

I had recently spoken with some friends who had been skippering and managing a new Neel 51 for the owner having taken delivery from the yard. They said it was very sensitive to sail balance, so it was interesting to find that the 43 was pretty tolerant on the whole. We sailed with one slab in the main and a couple of rolls in the jib, and it was fine. Some weather helm became apparent before the jib was sheeted in as we came out of a tack. Then we accelerated rapidly and would carry on almost in a straight line if I let go of the wheel, just a reassuring touch of weather helm remaining.

True to Neel’s promise, the helm is indeed direct and responsive, and the boat tacks positively. You really can enjoy sailing this boat for sailing’s sake. That, in my experience, is more than can be said for many cruising cats.

The saloon gives a nearly 360º view of the outside world. Photo: David Harding

In the relatively flat water of the Solent the log showed us clocking up to 10 knots upwind on starboard tack at about 60° to the true wind and, most of the time, closer to 8.5 knots on port with a true wind angle (TWA) of around 45°. Some calibration of instruments was probably needed.

In any event, our tacking angle of around 100-110° by the compass tallied with the TWA readings, even if the angles were offset.

Smooth sailing

Once the tide started to ebb, running against the wind, the water chopped up a little but our motion remained remarkably smooth. The main factors to be mindful of are keeping a lookout under the headsail on starboard tack – the helm station being on the starboard side – and handling the headsail sheets on the single Antal 48 winch (electric on our test boat), That’s more of a challenge if you choose to back the headsail during a tack. The chances are you will rarely need to.

Cracking off a few degrees took us up to around 12 knots. Like many multihulls, this one will get you around pretty quickly when it comes to ‘straight-line’ sailing, even if a performance monohull might have the edge upwind. That said, taking the trouble to sheet the headsail in fairly hard to narrow the sheeting angle made a difference to our VMG.

ABOVE: A simple linear galley to starboard adjoins the owner’s cabin outboard. Gimbals are not needed for the hob or oven as they would be on a monohull. Photo: David Harding

Performance could be enhanced by some additions, such as headsail tracks. Fixed thimbles give no adjustment for twist and could lead to a slack leech when you have more than a few rolls around the headfoil. Twin mainsheets, taken to strong-points a few feet apart on the stern, give some control over mainsail twist until the wind comes aft. Strong-points along the gunwales would be useful for sail control and a variety of other purposes. All the basics are fitted; nothing more.

At the helm station you’re well away from the cockpit, so non-working crew can spread out under the hard-top around the large table. You have big lockers aft in each hull, but little in the way of small stowage and nothing under the seats in the cockpit or the saloon. That seems a waste of space.

Double cabins each side in the floats are separated from the saloon by windows with curtains or blinds, although the cabin to port is not fitted with a door. Photo: David Harding

More large stowage areas are forward in each float, reached by hatches in the deck. They’re big enough to be used as cabins, separate from the main accommodation. Each of the three bows has a collision bulkhead and this, combined with the foam-cored (and resin-infused) construction should give the Neel a good chance of staying afloat if you hit anything. The literature says these features ‘guarantee that the craft is unsinkable.’

A few details on deck are worthy of note, such as the Dyneema guardwires – far more practical than the plastic-covered stainless wire that used to be the norm. Otherwise it’s all about simple sailing and loads of space.

Inside and out

Neel use the word ‘cockloon’ to describe a cockpit and saloon that merge into each other. They’re separated by sliding doors which, when fully open, create an almost seamless inside/outside living space.

In the saloon, as elsewhere, you’re greeted by a lot of shiny moulded surfaces that simplify production and save the weight of more elaborate trim. Additional joinery units are on the extras list.

On the wind the Neel clocked up to 10 knots. Photo: David Harding

You have a table to port and a nav area forward of it with a view through about 300°, obscured to starboard only by the heads and the door to the owner’s cabin that extends into the starboard float.

A second double cabin is in the port float, this time with no door. Both wing cabins have windows to the saloon, making it light and giving that nearly-all-round view. Curtains or blinds can be used for privacy when the cabins are occupied. Cabin No.3 is in the bow, down a level from the saloon and with a slightly narrower bunk.

One space that’s particularly useful on the Neel is below the sole of the saloon. Drop down through the hatch and you find the utility area running most of the length of the main hull. Aft is the engine – a 50hp Volvo that gives nearly nine knots at full tilt and a comfortable 7-plus knots at cruising speeds. All-round access is pretty well unrestricted. Down here you also find the tankage and electrics, all neatly laid out and easy to reach.

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vIt seems strange that the solid-wing (solid-deck) trimaran has taken so long to reappear in the mainstream. The success of the Neels, from the 43 up to the truly massive 65, suggests that the world has been ready for something like this for a while. Like a cruising catamaran, the Neel offers a lot room. Just don’t fill it with too much heavy kit or you will lose the fizz-factor under sail. It would be interesting to see how the 43 performs in a seaway, and good to have a little more scope for sail-tweaking, which the yard might be persuaded to discuss if you started waving a cheque book. On the basis of what I experienced, this could be an excellent alternative to a high-volume cruising cat or a low-volume performance tri if you want some of the best features of each.

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Trimaran Neel 43 Review

This review is dedicated to the unique three-hull yacht Neel 43 trimaran , which has collected all possible prizes in its category since its release in 2021 by the Neel Trimarans shipyard. Here's what impressed the selection committees when determining the winner, and what attracts sailing enthusiasts and businessmen to Neel 43.

• FEATURES OF NEEL 43 TRIMARAN
• MAX SPEED NEEL 43

A Bit of Theory at a Glance

Loft is such a loft, always on duty, in the engine compartment, in cabins and forepeak.

• ADVANTAGES OF NEEL 43
• REVIEWS OF NEEL 43 FROM PROFESSIONALS
• VIDEO REVIEWS OF NEEL 43
• PRICE CALCULATOR

Traditionally, in addition to the review from the topRik team, we present the opinion of the leading yachting media, whose journalists participated in testing this unique catamaran. What makes it unique? Find out in our review!

To avoid tormenting the most impatient, we will hint at the main signs by which you can recognize a sought-after Neel 43 at a glance.

This is a loft-style deck - here, on one level, you can find all the main areas where the owner of the trimaran and his guests stay.

This common space without any frills is subject to the main thing: the optimal ratio between the performance of the boat, the ease of management, on the one hand, and the sufficient comfort of life on board, on the other.

TopRik team, before offering the Neel 43 trimaran to you, intends to check all the claims of the shipyard about its advantages on board this three-hull yacht. Follow us on this endeavor!

Features of Neel 43 Trimaran

• Brand: Neel Trimarans
• Hull type: Trimaran
• Overall length, m: 13.1
• Width, m: 7.5
• Displacement, t: 9
• Air draft, m: 19
• Water tanks, l: 500
• Exterior design (Architect): Marc Lombard/Yacht Design Group
• CE Certification: ICNN
• Mainsail type: Fully battened
• Jib type: Furling genoa
• Mainsail area, m²: 58
• Jib area, m²: 43.2
• Engine: diesel sail drive 50 hp
• Fuel tanks l: 300

Max speed Neel 43

The maximum speed of the Neel 43 trimaran depends on various factors such as wind conditions, sea state, sail configuration, and the weight of the vessel, crew, and equipment. However, the manufacturer states that the Neel 43 has a maximum speed of around 20 knots (23 mph or 37 km/h) under ideal conditions.

It's worth noting that cruising trimarans like the Neel 43 are typically designed for comfort and stability rather than speed, so their top speeds are usually lower than those of racing trimarans.

Review Neel 43 by topRik Team

No, no, the photo above is not the topRik team, we do not look so romantic, we do not wear bikinis, and we do not mix yacht testing with cocktails. We just have a good imagination - and we immediately imagined how this transom might look in a "busy" state. Note that a good third of the transom on the starboard side is not even included in this photo. Let's take a closer look at one of the ladders - this is the one where the girl in the blue bathing suit stands, on the port side.

You can see that this is not just a ladder , but at the same time a rather extensive swim platform - this is hinted at by the onboard ladder and common sense. Exactly the same platform, or gangway, is located on the starboard side.

And between these two ladders there is a huge main platform, which can serve as a boathouse for a PVC motorboat, jet ski, folding bikes, kiteboards, windsurfers and other useful things. Especially when you consider that under it you can find a very roomy locker for a life raft.

From the pier, we have a view of the massive roof over the cockpit, low lowered boom, slightly sloping mast and bimini over the helm station. The ribbed contours of the hulls attract attention - this will limit the rocking of the trimaran. A very wide vaka with a normal amas width may indicate that a large amount of equipment is placed in the central body to balance the weight distribution for high performance.

Although, as far as we know, the weight of this trimaran is even less than most catamarans of the same size. This was achieved through the use of technologies that have already proven themselves to be reliable in hull manufacturing process, as well as through innovative technologies used in making non-structural elements. In the first case, sandwiches made of foam and glass reinforced with a polymer fabric are used, in the second, a cork core is used.

The reduction in weight also reduces the wetted surface area, which makes it easier to control the trimaran when maneuvering and tacking under sail.

While there are enough theories, it's time to climb the ladder to the cockpit. While our skipper moved straight from the transom steps to the steps leading to the helm station, the rest of the topRik team decided to test the capacity of the cockpit and, of course, the capabilities of the aft galley.

Let's not forget that the Neel 43 is billed as a 10-passenger boat, which is important not only to those future owners who plan to bring as many friends on the cruise as possible or take the whole extended family on the trip. The maximum capacity of the yachts is also important for entrepreneurs who rent them out.

So, we inform all interested parties: the yacht will freely accommodate 10 passengers, even without the skipper and crew - this ten will have enough space even in the cockpit.

And if suddenly someone does not have enough space, you can always move to the saloon. Moreover, the shipyard has remained true to itself and has retained this deck in the loft style, where the cockpit almost imperceptibly merges with the saloon. Yes, this is the famous “cockloon”, where the cockpit and saloon are separated or, more correctly, united by large sliding doors.

We have already shown the view from the cockpit to the saloon: both tables are practically adjacent, passengers can freely communicate through a large open window. Through it, you can also transfer dishes cooked in the galley.

And in the photo below there’s a good view from the saloon to the cockpit - you can appreciate the galley and its linear arrangement. More than one cook can handle it at the same time, since the approaches and aisles are very open. You see plenty of seating around the table and on the double sofa. What is behind the curtain? Bed? Exactly! It’s the loft.

But wait to be surprised and perplexed. Everything is very logical if you see the rest of the cabin. There is a full-fledged charting table - the second control post after the one our skipper has already taken at the helm. And when he is replaced after the night watch, he can immediately go to rest on this comfortable large bed, taking some time out from the navigation table, marine tools and chartplotter .

And if you are traveling with your family, this is a great place for children to sleep or play – it can always be under the supervision of adults, both day and night.

Some may be surprised by the amount of storage space for food and kitchen utensils, but we were struck by the spaciousness, which seems simply immense due to the large area of glazing. Panoramic views and natural light add to this feeling of freedom on board Neel 43.

The height of the rooms on the test yachts, as usual, was tested by our expert, whose height reaches 2 meters. In the cockpit and saloon, he didn’t even need to bow his head - he walked, proudly straightening up all the way, and there was still a lot of free space above his head.

– What are you doing here?

In our fascination with the “cockloon” and the possibilities of the grill and galley, we somehow forgot about our skipper, who stayed to study the helm station.

– Testing, - the team mumbled indistinctly with their mouths full. - We decided to share the responsibilities: since you are on duty, we’ll cover this area just fine...

After everyone paid tribute to dinner, they went to inspect... no, not the cabins, but the control station in the cockpit. We studied the charting table quite well - nothing unexpected: a large chart plotter, communication equipment, radio, electrical panel, tool indicators that control all the equipment of the trimaran.

Located on a raised platform on the starboard side, the helm station has an entrance from the transom side and from the cockpit side. In front of the helm there is a skipper's chair, where an assistant will comfortably fit.

All lines, except for spinnaker sheets, are brought to the winches located at arm's length or within walking distance. The staysail sheets pass through one fixed hawse. Our trimaran had an electric winch, which makes it much easier to work with the rigging.

The control panel is practically a double of the saloon control panel in terms of the set of instruments. To the right you get your throttle.

From the helmsman's seat there was an excellent view of all three bows of Neel 43’s hulls until the sails were raised. There are some problems here depending on the rig used. Later we found out that the front view is still blocked when the headsail is raised on the starboard tack or an asymmetric spinnaker is raised on both tacks.

Spacious and with a high ceiling - everyone liked this compartment, even the aforementioned crewman, who still had more than 10 centimeters of space left above his head. The compartment is located in the central float, the entrance to it opens from the cabin.

In the photo you can see that the engine and steering gear are shifted to the stern, and in the center there are water and fuel tanks, batteries and other equipment. We liked that most of the equipment is concentrated in one place, and not distributed throughout the yacht. Of course, this was done not so much for our convenience in service, but to achieve the most productive balance of the vessel, and this perfectly coincided with yachtsmen's ideas about serviceability.

On this boat, the forepeaks can be used for more than just storing fenders if the Neel 43 is intended for charters. There is plenty of room for the crew. Ten passengers can be perfectly accommodated in a trimaran if all the options for sleeping places are well utilized.

To visualize these options, let’s take a look at the Neel 43 passenger and crew layouts.

The first schematic shows the bedding option suitable for a cruise with 2-4 people. These can't even be called cabins - just places fenced off for sleeping on the loft deck. One of these places, at the navigator's table, we have already shown - it is fenced off only by a curtain.

The second one can be called the owner's cabin variation – you get a high and roomy space with a large double bed and many windows.

On the second schematic you see how it is possible to equip additional berths in the bow of the central hull and fore peaks.

The first berth is quite spacious, although it narrows somewhat towards the headboard, but the ceilings are high, and natural light is provided through the skylight and side porthole.

Living spaces in the forepeak are reserved for crew members - one berth per one person. And no, we were not mistaken: although there are only 8 beds on the diagrams, do not forget about the folding table in the cabin, which can be transformed into 2 beds.

Since we were examining the forepeak, we could not help but pay attention to the bow of the Neel 43.

This is how you can characterize the bow of this trimaran. Everything here is subject to expediency. The bowsprit is used to shift the center of sail and carry the sail armament forward.

The nets between the noses of the hulls are not for the sake of sunbathing area here. They perform their direct function - they dampen the waves and do not allow the trimaran to bury its nose into the wave.

Advantages of Neel 43

Since we didn’t find much shortcomings, we will immediately announce the main one - there is no signaling equipment whatsoever warning you about the ingress of water into the engine compartment. So, it is necessary to either order such equipment on your own, or simply check the condition of the compartment more often. And here are the pros:

• High performance, excellent maneuverability.
• Obedience to the steering wheel and rudder.
• One rudder and an obedient helm provide a great helmsman's feel to control the sails.
• The quality of the hulls, which ensures the reliability and safety of being on board.
• Enough comfort for a cruise as a couple, as part of a family, with friends or a charter flight.
• Affordable price with great features.

The last point allows you to actively use this boat for commercial purposes.

Another advantage that we have noticed is that an experienced skipper is able to manage this beauty alone.

Reviews of Neel 43 from Professionals

Rupert Holmes and Dave Reed are well-known yachtsmen and journalists, who participated in the testing of the Neel 43 trimaran. And Dave did it as part of the Sailing World Magazine team, which conducted its annual test, seeking out the 2023 Boat of the Year nominees.

From the very first lines of his review Rupert Holmes immediately offers a solution for those who hesitate between a monohull yacht and a catamaran. Cruising trimaran Neel 43, according to the author, can be an ideal option. Rupert goes on to substantiate his claim.

A well-known journalist and yachtsman remembered the trimarans of the 60-70s, which did not quite justify their title of "cruising". In contrast, Rupert picks light and fast three-hull yachts of the last decades, the credit of the revival of which largely belongs to the Neel shipyard from La Rochelle with its cruising models with spacious rooms. Neel 43 trimaran designed by Marc Lombard is the discovery of 2021.

Test team with active participation of Rupert Holmes tested the Neel 43 at La Rochelle in light to moderate seas and 12-16 knots offshore wind.

The journalist specifically noted that despite the spacious deck and massive roof, the Neel 43 is three tons lighter than most 42-foot catamarans. He was surprised by the low wetted area during maneuvers when windward ama rises out of the water. This area is several times smaller than that of a catamaran of the same size. In addition, the Neel 43 has a low displacement. Together, this makes the trimaran remarkably fast.

Then the author described in detail the trials of the boat under sail. The crew turned off the engine, hoisted the mainsail, turned the staysail downwind on the beam, and with a true wind of 14 knots, quickly accelerated the trimaran to a stable speed of 10 knots.

The change in true (65°) and apparent (40°) wind angles reduced the speed by just one knot. Rupert noted that if they had more advanced rigging rather than Dacron sails, it would add a few useful degrees closer to the wind without sacrificing speed.

The helm is connected to one rudder by straight cables. The steering was remarkably responsive during testing. At the same time, the direct sensations from handling it were much brighter compared to a catamaran.

Maneuvering was as easy as navigating a monohull. The trimaran turned deftly into the wind, and the speed rarely dropped below five knots.

Rupert Holmes explained how the developers achieved light and smooth movement of such a seemingly bulky vessel. They did an excellent job with the distribution of heavy equipment in the central building, concentrating it in the middle. Under the central hull of the trimaran, they placed one keel instead of two, as in most cats.

But in order to heel the trimaran at angles of more than 14°, great efforts are required - the boat quickly reaches stability. The high freeboards also provide a large margin of buoyancy in the amas, even with a strong gust of wind or a squall.

A single fin keel makes it impossible to beach the trimaran like most cruising boats.

Since the trimaran was heading towards the wind from the canal into the open sea, we found out how easily controlled underwater elements behave during motor navigation. With one 50 hp engine and 2400 rpm the boat was moving at a speed of 8 knots.

When turning downwind the asymmetric kite was raised, since the speed at a true wind angle of 150° began to decrease. This maneuver made it possible to raise the speed to 9 knots, and the best VMG downwind was 7 knots.

When the wind increased to a true speed of 15-16 knots, the crew deviated from the true wind up to 115°. The boat accelerated to 10.5-11 knots. At the same time, Neel 43 demonstrated excellent stability: no change in roll was noticed.

Concluding his review, the journalist and yachtsman noted that the Neel 43 has become a cruising trimaran concept for the mass market. The popularity of triple-hulled vessels is evidenced by the fact that the shipyard produces at least two trimarans every month.

Test team loved the new concept of Neel's latest trimarans, which consists of one large connected living space that is visible from float to float. Wherever you are on this ship, you feel your involvement in the overall life process, as in any residential family building.

There is only one "sunken" living space for passengers - in the bow of the central float. All other berths are located on the same level as the saloon and cockpit, which distinguishes the Neel 43 from most catamarans and many trimarans from other manufacturers.

Although the trimaran is primarily intended for family sailing, it should be the family of the yachtsman who prefers high performance boats.

It was no coincidence that the gigantic, according to the shipyard, mechanical compartment below was especially noted. It is only necessary to open the hatch in the saloon and descend into a spacious and well-lit area, where free access to all trimaran systems is provided.

Dave Reed quotes Chuck Allen, the senior judge of this competition, who notes that the trimaran is more stable and faster than a catamaran, as a result of which the pleasure of driving it is much higher. Riding a trimaran is a great experience. The adjustment of the amas becomes similar to balancing, which is provided by the rudder, mast and keel in the central hull. At the same time, there is no strong roll, the trimaran is very stable. "It's an adventure platform," Chuck Allen summed up.

He was surprised that a trimaran sails against the wind like a monohull sailboat, and when it glides over a wave, it simply takes off. “I got the impression that you can really sail on the coast with the right selection of sails,” Chuck jokes.

He noted that this trimaran was easily handled by two people at high speed and expressed his confidence that the crew of 4 would be great in a coastal race.

The team of judges noted the good location of the steering wheel on a starboard raised platform, which ensured good visibility. They also liked the fact that all reefs and sail control cables run close to the helm and are folded into special bags.

It was noted separately that the shipyard commits to environment protection technologies through the use of environmentally friendly and recyclable materials, in particular, epoxy resins, foam plastic, and cork. To power the refrigerator and electronic devices, solar panels are provided on the roof of the trimaran.

Video Reviews of Neel 43

Prepare to enjoy the trimarans beauty in video format!

Let’s start with well-known Multihull Solutions – their video review in comprehensive and interesting at the same time:

Moving on to Aeroyacht and their in-depth 22-minute-long review:

Another great yachting test at the sea by Multihull World:

And, if you are not interested in commentary, here’s a silent interior review of this roomy boat:

All of the above information leads us to the following conclusion: Neel 43's affordable price, its excellent seaworthiness, stability and reliability, ease of handling make it desirable for many sailors, including:

• couples who love the speed and challenges of sailing;
• friends ready to strengthen the bonds of friendship in sea trials;
• families with or without children who want to spend time together without the presence of strangers on board;
• lovers of the sea, speed and sails;
• yachtsmen who do not like excessive luxury, but do not want to completely deprive themselves of comfort.

In addition to private ownership, this trimaran is ideal for commercial purposes. It can be successfully rented out both to passengers who never met each other before the charter, and to groups of friends or colleagues.

Price calculator

Where to buy neel 43 at a bargain price.

If you are reading this, you already know the place where you can buy the Neel 43 for a low price without the risk of receiving services or accessories that you do not need.

All marketplace employees topRik have been and regularly go to sea on motor and sailing yachts , monohulls and multihulls. We all know perfectly well what needs to be done so that your boat fully meets your requirements, and also that you do not overpay for imposed options.

If you put your trust in us, then all you have to do is state your requirements, consult our team and wait for us to deliver your yacht to its destination.

We will take on:

• negotiations with the manufacturer;
• control over the package options of the boat;
• trimaran delivery;
• providing the missing equipment and accessories from rigging equipment to a watermaker ;
• further maintenance of the boat.

If you are a novice yachtsman, before going to sea on your own, you can enroll at our skipper school SimpleSail to receive "International Bareboat Skipper" after finishing IYT Yacht Training Course .

Call, send an e-mail or contact our consultants using the website feedback system.

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How do you judge the success of an ocean cruising yacht? You can tell a lot from where you see them and where you don’t. It’s also instructive to look at the builder’s order book. If you buy one now, how long will you have to wait for delivery? Another indicator is how well (or poorly) they hold their value on the secondhand market. By any of these measures, Neel Trimarans is absolutely nailing it.

You’ll often see Neel tris anchored in remote parts of the Hebrides and far-flung atolls of the South Pacific but they’re rarely seen in crowded, mainstream cruising destinations like the Ionian, the Virgin Islands or the Solent. Depending on which model of Neel tri you want, you’ll probably have to wait at least eight months and possibly up to two years. And a survey of brokerage websites suggests that there isn’t a great deal of difference between the asking price of a two-year-old Neel and the cost of a new one.

Despite the disruptions of the Covid pandemic, the La Rochellebased shipyard is still steadily growing. ‘We built about 30 boats last year,’ says Neel founder Eric Bruneel, ‘and this year we expect to build 45 to 50.’ The latest, smallest model, the Neel 43, is coming off the production line at a rate of one boat every two weeks and demand is still outstripping supply.

That said, due to the shipyard’s recently increased capacity, now is a good time to order a new Neel as the waiting list, at the time of writing, is shorter than it’s been in years.

Neel’s new Leen power tri have the same core values, and designer Bernard Nivelt owns one…

Neel is one of just a few brands that have carefully positioned themselves between these two extremes. ‘Where other multihulls have to choose between performance and comfort, a Neel combines both,’ says Charline Picon, an Olympic gold medallist the the RS-X class, who knows a thing or two about performance and is Godmother of the Neel 51. ‘We’re definitely performance-oriented but it’s absolutely not about racing,’ says Eric Bruneel, pointing out that while his yachts have performed very well indeed in ocean passage events like the ARC and ARC+, these are competitive cruising rallies rather than races.

Bruneel has a strong personal racing pedigree, having won his class in the 2004 OSTAR and 2005 Fastnet aboard the 50ft Trilogic, which he built himself, plus a second place in the 2006 Route du Rhum and various exploits in bleeding-edge C Class cats. He also has a lifetime of experience at the forefront of multihull production with 27 years at Fountaine-Pajot, including 10 years as managing director, before he left to found his own shipyard. In the decade since the first Neel trimaran sailed out of La Rochelle’s historic harbour, his boats have earned widespread respect among experienced ocean sailors.

So why choose a tri? There are several reasons why three hulls are better than two, especially if you’re sailing offshore. First and foremost: weight distribution, which is far more important in a multihull than a monohull. The central hull of a trimaran is the ideal place to put all the heavy stuff, Bruneel explains, and having a single engine amidships is much better for stability than twin engines at the aft ends of two hulls. ‘It changes everything, all the dynamics – like a skater in a spin, moving her arms in and out to control her speed,’ he says. ‘Catamarans have to carry weight in all four corners and that’s why the motion of a trimaran is better, much softer, at sea.’ The pitching motion is less pronounced when sailing closehauled and on a beam reach there’s less of a tendency for the boat to rock back and forth from hull to hull.

Another advantage is better performance in light airs, Bruneel says, which directly translates to more enjoyment for the owner and crew. The combined wetted surface of a trimaran’s main hull and one float is smaller than the wetted area of a cat with both of its hulls still immersed, and the trimaran is designed to sail with a small amount of heel, rather than bolt upright, which helps the sails hold their shape in very light winds. Also, a single rudder with a simple direct linkage gives a better ‘feel’ to the helm than a twin-rudder setup, particularly upwind, and saves weight in the stern where it has a significant effect on the boat’s fore-and- aft pitching motion.

The front end of a Neel 65’s bridgedeck has two separate lounge seating areas, either side of the yacht’s main nav station.

Neel’s ‘cockloon’, an original concept by Michel Joubert, turns the saloon and cockpit into a single indoor/outdoor space.

One of the Neel tris’ most useful characteristics is the ability to sail deeper angles downwind than most multihulls

Other key features include a cutter-rigged mast stepped amidships (long before it became fashionable to bring the mast step aft) with a big genoa and a working jib with a much lower centre of effort than the part-furled genoa of a sloop-rigged yacht; plenty of lateral resistance to ensure good upwind VMG – equivalent to a monohull racer-cruiser of similar length in almost any conditions – without needing a daggerboard; and the ability to sail efficiently downwind at deeper angles than most other cruising multihulls can manage, which is a distinct advantage for trade wind sailing.

Exotic materials are used only sparingly in the boats’ construction, for good reason. ‘We use unidirectional carbon only in crucial places like the beams and deck,’ Bruneel explains. ‘For long-distance cruising you don’t want carbon in the hulls because even a small hit can do a lot of damage to the boat, and we don’t need it because our boats are light enough without it.’ A carbon rig with square-top mainsail is available, which gives better performance than the standard alloy rig in light airs, but Bruneel says that in most conditions there isn’t much difference between the two rigs.

Almost all part of the boats, even the interiors, are vacuum-infused GRP foam sandwich using materials that can easily be recycled when the boat eventually reaches the end of its life. Social aspects of sustainability are taken equally seriously and the gender pay gap within the shipyard is actually tilted in favour of female employees. Environmental concerns are paramount even in the new range of Leen motor yachts. ‘I couldn’t ignore that even if I wanted to,’ Bruneel says. ‘My design engineers would simply refuse to produce a dirty boat.’

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2023 Boat of the Year Best Multihull: Neel 43

• By Dave Reed
• December 16, 2022

Sailing World Magazine’s  annual Boat of the Year tests are conducted in Annapolis, Maryland, following the US Sailboat Show. With independent judges exhaustively inspecting the boats on land and putting them through their paces on the water, this year’s fleet of new performance-sailing boats spanned from small dinghies to high-tech bluewater catamarans. Here’s the best of the best from our  2023 Boat of the Year nominees »

The Power of Three

• Neel 43 2023 Best Multihull
• Stated purpose: Family cruising, casual pursuit racing
• Crew: Two to four
• Praise for: Easily handling, open interior layout, overall positive sailing experience
• Est. price as sailed: $600,000

In the sea of slab-sided catamarans that make up “multihull alley” in the US Sailboat Show, there’s a homogeneity that makes it almost impossible for one cat sailing condo to stand out among the others. (Gunboat and HH Catamarans being the high-ticket exceptions.)

Unique and mixed in among them, however, is the Neel 43 trimaran. From the dock perspective, it’s a big and imposing vessel. It’s also a proven bluewater performer that’s already won its share of hardware. While previous French-built Neel performance cruising tris have been overlooked by the racing set, that’s starting to change, as are opinions of multihulls. Ask the Texans in Galveston how many performance cruising multis are now doing their annual Harvest Moon Regatta—more than ever. And the Caribbean Multihull Challenge in St. Martin? It’s growing bigger by the year, and that’s because boats like the Neel 43 can be one heck of a ride and capable of being first to finish in a coastal overnighter.

“What surprised me is how much it sailed upwind like a monohull,” Allen says. “When you start flying the weather hull—when it’s just skimming the surface—the boat takes off. We didn’t have a ton of breeze for the test sail, but it was easy to see how you could really cover some ground with the right sail combination. I could see this boat being easily raced point-to-point by two people. With four crew on a coastal race, it would be a blast—go around the island and then park the thing and have a great night.”

Neel-Trimarans, explains Alex Sastre, the North American agent, was founded 20 years ago by Eric Brunel, founder of catamaran giant Fountaine Pajot. Neel now builds nearly 200 boats per year at its facilities in La Rochelle, France, and it’ll build plenty of these entry-level cruising tris.

The boat’s overall interior concept is to have one large and connected living space, visible from hull to hull. Step through the main salon sliding door and the living quarters are all right there before you with a near panoramic view. There’s an owners cabin in one hull, a guest cabin in the other, and a sunken V-berth forward. The layout is a striking change from similar-size catamarans, where cabins are down and low in the hulls. On the Neel 43, there’s a feeling of inclusion, like a loft apartment. It’s not necessarily better or worse in terms of owner privacy, the judges say. It’s just different. What the trimaran’s large center hull provides is a giant mechanical room below. Open a hatch and climb down a short ladder to an airy and brightly illuminated space with all the boat systems accessible.

The boat is primarily intended for family cruising, Sastre says, but it’s ultimately for a sailor who appreciates performance. “When you trim in the sails, the boat lurches forward,” he says, thrusting his hips forward, “like whoosh! It takes off!

“With four on a long-­distance race, it would be a blast [to] go around the island and then park the thing on a mooring and have a great night.” —Chuck Allen

“A trimaran,” he adds, “is more stable than a catamaran and is faster than a catamaran, so sailing this boat is a lot of fun because helming it gives a feeling of great sensation. With the keel, mast and rudder on the center hull, trimming the amas is like a balancing act. It doesn’t heel too much, and it’s very stable. This is a platform for adventure.”

“It was the least multihull-like of all the multihulls we sailed,” Powlison says. “It handled like a monohull, and the third hull really makes a difference in being able turn the boat easily without stalling.”

The boat is an impressive build of vinylester and foam core, with nearly the entire hull built off with one mold. Neel touts use of eco-friendly and recyclable materials, and even cork is used as coring in some interior elements. Solar panels on the roof power the fridge and electronics.

With a displacement of nearly 9 tons, there’s a lot of boat that spans 24 feet at maximum beam. Looking bow on, it’s a formidable-looking craft that glides quietly across the water when there’s all of 1,100 square feet of upwind sail area on the carbon rig. With its roller-furling gennaker deployed, the boat really lights up, as it should, Allen says.

The single helm is up high to starboard with good visibility, the judges note, with all the reef and control lines spilling into the helm area and into sheet bags.

The Dyneema cable steering, Stewart says, was very responsive: “This is Hull No. 25, which is a good indication they’ve hit it right with the type of owner drawn to this type of boat. It definitely meets its purpose and does what it is supposed to. It’s stable and powerful, and accelerated well, even with the small jib. It felt far more nimble than other big multihulls we’ve sailed in the past. The way that it tacked easily is a really appealing trait for the type of racing an owner can do, like in the Caribbean, where the races are around islands and there can be a fair bit of tacking.”

First around the island means the first ­relaxing, and that’s what the Neel 43 is designed to do.

• More: 2023 Boat of the Year , Boat of the Year , Multihull , Print Winter 2023 , Sailboats
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Sailboat Review: Neel 43 Trimaran

• By Mark Pillsbury
• April 12, 2023

Once the Boat of the Year team was aboard the Neel 43 trimaran and we had the sails set, it didn’t take me long to find my sweet spot. You know, the place you want to sit and watch the miles fly by as the hulls slice through the waves. Nearly every boat I’ve sailed has one, though sometimes it’s hard to find.

But not on the Neel.

With my fellow judges at work at the raised helm station, I stepped from the wheel onto the wide starboard side deck, took a couple of steps down into the ­cockpit, and wandered into the brightly lit salon where the door to the owner’s cabin was open, as though beckoning in a visitor. Inside, I sat on the edge of the fore-and-aft double berth, set a hand on the bunk, and leaned over to gaze out the long horizontal window, imagining coming off watch and lying there to drift off to sleep. Or waking up in some exotic anchorage, with morning sunlight streaking in. Even dockside, during our preliminary inspection of the boat and a briefing with Neel founder Eric Bruneel, that was the space that caught my eye.

On the inboard side of the stateroom, a long horizontal glass panel covered by an ­adjustable shade looks in toward the center of the boat and over the inline galley ­located on the salon’s starboard side. Forward, there are more windows that let you look ahead at where you’re ­going. Aft, a light-colored wood bulkhead separates the cabin from the head compartment at the rear of the salon. With storage outboard of the berth, it’s a well-laid-out space for living aboard.

Described by Bruneel as a “fast cruiser,” the Neel 43 is designed to sail comfortably at 9 to 10 knots and knock off 250-mile trade-wind days. That description wasn’t far off, from what we saw the day we went sailing on Chesapeake Bay, right after the close of the United States Sailboat Show in Annapolis , Maryland. The wind was light when set out, only about 8 knots, but we hustled right along upwind at 6 to 7 knots with the twin-headsail rig’s smaller inner jib set. Later, with the reaching sail rolled out in just a bit more breeze, we added a knot or more. During my trick on the wheel, I spotted 8.2 knots on the speedo for a spell.

And the sailing was easy, thanks to the buoyancy of the leeward hull that minimizes heel, and the fact that all the weight—engine, tanks, pumps and filters—is located low in the center hull. That, combined with the interior space made possible by spreading accommodations over three hulls, is what makes these trimarans comfortable at sea, Bruneel says.

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.

Hulls and deck are made of resin-infused fiberglass with foam coring to save weight. Where practical in nonstructural areas, the yard uses natural fibers such as linen and cork rather than fiberglass, in a push toward greener boatbuilding. 

The fit-and-finish of the boat we looked at in Annapolis was noteworthy. The cockpit has a table to port with an L-shaped seating area outboard and aft, located under the Bimini top. To starboard is a grill built into the transom, as well as a cushioned lounging area beneath the helm station.

A wall of glass, with a large opening door and window, spans the aft side of the wide cabin, whose other three sides are lined with ports so that from the interior, one has nearly 360-degree visibility.

A second table is located just inside the salon, to port, also with L-shaped seating. Outboard of it, there’s a guest cabin, separated from the salon by another glass partition. 

An additional seating area and nav station equipped with a B&G chart plotter, displays, autopilot control and radio are far forward on the port side of the salon, with the well-appointed galley opposite. A third crew cabin is four steps down, in the forepeak of the center hull. 

Beneath the main hull’s sole is an equipment room providing excellent access to the motor (a 50 hp Volvo with saildrive), steering ­quadrant, systems and electrical ­boxes—a true engine room, which is hard to find on a boat in this size range. 

“It had absolutely the best service access to systems of all the boats we looked at this year,” Boat of the Year judge Ed Sherman noted. 

Topside, broad side decks make it easy to move about. There is a wide seat at the helm, with room for three. All sail-control lines run across the cabin top to a bank of line clutches and a pair of winches, all from Antal, that are easily reached while steering. Singlehanding the Neel would not be a problem. 

The boat in Annapolis sported an Intracoastal Waterway-friendly 62-foot aluminum spar; a carbon-fiber rig is an option. The boat also came equipped with three 170-watt solar panels and a bow thruster. Loaded with gear, it carried a price tag of $575,000.

Overall, I thought that the Neel’s open-living layout would be just fine for a couple who might have occasional guests aboard for a passage, or a small family with children out for an extended cruise. But I’ll give Boat of the Year judge Herb McCormick the last word here: “It was a remarkably fun and exciting boat to sail, a light and lovely helm. Eric Bruneel has amply demonstrated that if you’re looking to go the multihull route, a trimaran is a viable alternative to a cat.” 

Neel 43 Trimaran Specifications

Mark Pillsbury, Boat of the Year judge and CW editor-­at-large, is a die-hard sailor who has owned a number of sailboats, including a Sabre 34, on which he lived for 15 years.

• More: neel trimarans , Print April 2023 , Sailboat Reviews , Sailboats , trimaran
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