SOLUTIONS MULTIHULL2018 ANNUAL EDITION

VICTORIA 67 A regal xxxx performance

Finding Balance The importance of compromise

Rendezvous with Paradise Diving in the SOCIAL RALLIES MAKE WAVES DEEP END NOVICE SAILORS TAKE THE PLUNGE

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF ASIA PACIFIC’S LEADING SPECIALIST FEATURE STORY

Sailing AT ITS LEVEL BEST Monohull or Multihull?

Mono or multi? What’s the best boat for you? Caroline Strainig delves into just a few of the reasons why are becoming the vessel of choice for more and more boat owners.

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uying a boat is something that’s “One delivery skipper I know loves telling a very personal decision with everything a balancing act and the story of how a rose bowl left on the compromise depending on your wish Blist. However, a multihull comes out on top in table survived an offshore voyage intact.” many categories. Here are just a few reasons why multihulls continue to dominate today’s cruising market. DRAUGHT Most people know that multihulls draw less than most monohulls, but what does this mean in real terms? A multihull’s shallower draught enables you to anchor closer in to shore in more sheltered places, which can make for a safer and more peaceful night. In strong winds, I love to motor in past the monohulls, find a nice spot in the lee of an island, drop anchor and then sit back and relax as I watch the monohull people anchored further out bouncing up and down. I know it’s mean, but I just cannot help it. Multihulls can also access other places that a deep-keel monohull cannot, such as the shallow entrance to a coral lagoon. You can even beach some multihulls that have been designed to do so, which is a bonus for maintenance. Being able to anchor closer in or beach your boat also means you don’t always need to take a if you want to go ashore. Some cat owners I know love beaching their boats and letting their children run wild on the beach nearby while they relax on deck. It’s a win-win for everyone. The children can make as much noise as they want, and the adults can relax in peace while still able to keep an eye on their offspring. SPACE AND COMFORT Over the years manufacturers of all types of vessels have responded to the ever-increasing demand for “space, space, and more space,” but monohulls still lag far behind multihulls in this respect because of the bigger building platform multihulls offer. You just cannot go past a multihull if you want the on-water equivalent of an apartment. In fact, one couple who bought a Fusion 40 from Multihull Solutions, Gary and Joey SPEED FLATTER Top: A cat Angove, were going to buy a waterfront unit As we saw in the America’s Cup, a It’s an irrefutable fact of life that multihulls comes out overlooking the marina where they kept the racing multihull can be exhilarating, sailing sail flatter than monohulls. One delivery tops for comfort and boat, but decided not to after living aboard right on the edge. Who wasn’t screaming “Go, skipper I know loves telling the story of how safety the boat for a short time. go, go!” as New Zealand raced America, with a rose bowl left on the table survived an “Why would you?” Joey said, as she relaxed both boats full of Aussie crew. offshore voyage intact. However, before you in the saloon. “I cannot think of a more A cruising multihull might be a little more start dreaming of sailing along in pancake- perfect setting than here.” sedate, but a modern built with like conditions while you paint your toenails New multihulls like the Fountaine Pajot a good compromise of space and sailing and sip a glass of sauvignon blanc, pause for Ipanema 58 are pushing that comfort performance and not overloaded still has a moment. envelope still further again with a sunbathing a tidy turn of foot, enough to leave many Yes, they do sail flatter, but let’s not bed on the flybridge, a 25sqm cockpit with cruising monohulls in her wake. pretend they don’t have any motion, and an abundance of lounge seating including a Fast passages also make for safer passages if you get seasick in rough conditions you Top: A multihull’s trampoline is the ultimate kids’ playground. daybed, and a foredeck with dual relaxation Middle: -up layouts on multihulls make entertaining easy. because you can outrun bad weather more might well still get seasick. I’d be silly to try stations that are the perfect spot enjoying a Bottom: A cat’s seamless transition between indoor/outdoor living. easily, and today’s multihulls continue to boast and pretend otherwise. However, flatter is drink as the sun goes down. impressive speeds when given the chance. better, most of the time.

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Above: The SAILING are overpowered by heeling excessively, SAFETY Fountaine You know how they tell you in Thailand that rounding up, and generally telling you off in Devout monohullers like to think their boats Pajot Saba 50 everything is “Same, same but different?” no uncertain terms. Multihulls have very high are the safest thing afloat, but the cruising Opposite: Well, it’s the same when it comes to sailing initial stability by comparison so complain cats of today bear no resemblance to those A multihull monohulls and multihulls. Some multihulls less until they are very overpowered. But they high-speed racing cats we see on the TV provides the can have a fractional time lag in answering do still heel slightly and start to bury a bow coming a cropper when pushed to the comforts the helm compared to a monohull, but one and the steering will become heavier. You just extreme. It would be extremely rare for a and space of quickly adapts, and after a few hours on the need to get to know your boat and listen to cruising cat to overturn nowadays. home, making her own unmistakable warning signs. it easier for helm, you won’t even notice it. And, while Yes, you can have more windage than a everyone to “that heeling feeling” is absent, you still multihull, but the twin engines counter that enjoy the get the thrill of sailing fast, which can be COST with unequalled manoeuvrability. Oh, and cruising life. deceptive. As any monohull devotee is quick to tell you, if the proverbial does hit the fan and you We were cruising along on a Helia 44 multihulls are more expensive foot-for-foot hit something or something hits you and Evolution in light winds, and it was only when waterline length. They can also cost more to you are holed, you have two or even three I looked out over the stern and saw the water berth in a marina because they take up more independent watertight flotation areas rushing past that I realised just how fast we space. But change that equation to interior instead of one. Fountaine Pajot and NEEL were actually going. Within seconds, we were volume and deck space and the difference construct all their cats to be insinkable. That’s “With some sailing couples, one partner having fun trimming sheets to see if we could fades away. And, if you can afford more space comforting to know as the water gurgles in. get the boat to go even faster, which we did. and comfort, why shouldn’t you have it? So, there you have it: just a few of the many is joining the other’s dream, so giving them Even the gung-ho racers were happy. With some sailing couples, one partner reasons multihulls are becoming the number a floating home that doesn’t feel cramped Some monohull sailors complain the is joining the other’s dream, so giving them one choice for cruising sailors, and why signs that the boat is overpowered are not a floating home that doesn’t feel cramped more and more monohull sailors like me are increases the chances that your dream so obvious. However, the signs are there – increases the chances that your dream will crossing over to enjoy what multihull owners just more subtle. Monohulls will show they become theirs. claim is sailing at its level best. will become theirs.”

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While cruising can sometimes be a solitary occupation, the growing popularity of boating rallies proves that sailors sure love to have fun when they get together.

he number of organised cruising rallies has boomed in recent years as both sail and powerboat owners jump onboard for myriad reasons. Most rallies generally follow a relaxed formula that combines Tlaidback cruising and socialising in some of the world’s most beautiful cruising grounds. Ranging from a weekend jaunt to four-month voyages, many rallies are open to both power and and provide unforgettable experiences that see participants return year after year. Each rally is as unique as the main reasons its members sign up: some want to explore new destinations in the security of an accompanying fleet, while others are keen to meet new cruising friends, exchange stories and tips, or boost their racing experience with some friendly competition. Some events are even supported by specific boating manufacturers and suppliers with representatives on hand throughout the event, providing a valuable opportunity for owners to learn more about the different features of their boat and gain advice on maximising performance as well as tips on maintenance and repairs. Social activities are a highlight of every event with most featuring a mix of on-board gatherings, land-based functions, beach parties, theme nights and awards presentations. While some functions include drinks and meals as part of the registration cost, there are also many nights where participants can dine at their leisure at resorts or onboard their own boats, or make plans with other cruisers. Some rallies place an emphasis on a friendly racing component with easy courses set to get the competitive juices flowing as a way of reaching the next destination. For others, racing takes a back seat and cruisers are in no hurry to raise anchor each morning. There are cruising rallies scheduled all over the world at all different times of the year presenting a great opportunity for owners to escape for a week-long holiday or incorporate into extended international cruising plans. For those without their own boat, the rallies are also a great chance to join as crew and discover exotic locations on a shoestring budget. Read on to discover some of the most popular international cruising rallies, including various Multihull Solutions events that are held each year throughout the Asia Pacific region.

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The advantages of rallies go beyond the social; they also offer safety in numbers and provide a framework to achieve long-held cruising ambitions.

Sail 2 Indonesia Rally sail2indonesia.com First staged in 2014, the Multihull Solutions Sail 2 Indonesia Rally is one of Asia Pacific’s most popular cruising events. Kicking off each July, the fleet spends four memorable months sailing from the Torres Straits in Far North Queensland through the Spice Islands to its final destination of Batam in the Riau Island group. The rally is the easiest way to circumvent the dreaded Indonesian bureaucracy that deters most sailors from visiting the region with the organisers – Island Cruising Regattas Ltd in conjunction with the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and the Cairns Cruising Squadron – handling all red tape for the event. Power and sail monohulls and multihulls over nine metres and under 25 metres in length are welcome to enter, and the east-to-west migratory track affords an unforgettable opportunity to experience the great diving, lush rainforests, exotic wildlife and colourful culture of the Top: The ARC Transatlantic world’s biggest archipelago. Its modest entry fees also make the event Rally is an annual favourite.. one of the most affordable cruising rallies around.

Multihull Solutions Pittwater Rally multihullsolutions.com.au/events/multihull-solutions- pittwater-rally-2 Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) In 1788 Captain Phillip described it as ‘the finest piece of water I ever worldcruising.com saw,’ and Pittwater still remains one of Australia’s most stunning The ARC is perhaps the world’s most famous annual cruising cruising grounds. Flanked by Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and rally, attracting more than 200 boats and 1200 participants each Sydney’s famed northern beaches, Pittwater is the perfect setting November to sail the 2700 nautical miles across the Atlantic from the for Multihull Solutions’ biennial cruising rally. Open exclusively to sail Canary Islands to Saint Lucia. Organised by the World Cruising Club, and power multihulls, the casual three-day event is held every second the event was first held in 1986 and is on the bucket list for cruisers November and incorporates a relaxed itinerary of cruising around from all walks of life, including families with young children, seasoned Lion Island, meandering up the Hawkesbury and anchoring in Refuge racers, cruising couples, high-end yachts and backyard kit boats. The or America’s Bay. Several social functions are scheduled amidst the ARC is famous for developing friendships made ashore in the two idyllic relaxation, including a beach party and themed presentation weeks of pre-departure activities and continued over the radio net at night at the Royal Motor Club. Generously sponsored by sea and the sense of achievement experienced when cruisers make numerous leading industry partners, the rally presents awards across land in the Caribbean after conquering the Atlantic. Organisers World a dizzying array of categories giving everyone a chance to walk away Cruising Club also offer a range of other rallies throughout the world. with some great prizes.

Bay Regatta, Thailand Multihull Solutions Moreton Bay Rally bayregatta.com www.multihullsolutions.com.au/events/moreton-bay-rally For those who don’t want to become embroiled in the hotbed of The glittering waterways of Queensland’s Moreton Bay are the ideal competition that characterises Thailand’s King’s Cup Regatta, the Bay setting for a weekend cruising with fellow multihull enthusiasts, Regatta is the perfect way to join a rally that explores the spectacular and this biennial rally crams an ocean of fun and relaxation into its scenery of Phang Nga Bay. Departing from Phuket, the rally cruises three-day itinerary. Held every second October, the rally invites to a new destination each evening and holds awards parties in a wide power and sail multihulls to experience casual sailing to Horseshoe variety of different locations as well as options to sleep onboard yachts Bay on beautiful Peel Island, frequent stops for social functions, or at one of the region’s many stunning resorts. Attracting hundreds beach parties, bushwalks, themed nights and a healthy daily dose of

of novice and seasoned sailors from all over the world, the rally is SCOTT MURRAY – SEA YACHTING (OPENING IMAGE AND REGATTA IMAGE) BAY relaxing downtime. Lose yourself in the natural beauty of this marine held in late January or early February each year. Despite the relaxed wonderland with dolphins, turtles and dugongs regularly keeping the atmosphere, yachts are divided into seven competing classes based on fleet company. The event has a swag of great sponsors with prizes their designs, including Multihulls, Racing, Bareboat Charter and more. including wine, sailing gear, magazine subscriptions and more that

PHOTOGRAPHY: are awarded to entrants who best embrace the rally’s spirit of fun.

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Left: Whitsunday Rendezvous participants: (L-R) Diane (Wild Spirit), Jo and Drew (Lickity Split II), Keith (Wild Spirit)

HOOKED FOR LIFE

We attended our first Multihull Solutions rally in 2012 at Pittwater after having just purchased our first sailing boat, a Fountaine Pajot Bahia 46. We wanted to meet like-minded people and glean much-needed sailing experience for we were certainly newbies. The Multihull Solutions team made us feel like part of the family, not to mention the welcome we received from other participants, many of whom have since become good friends. After a fantastic day of sailing, the entertainment would start with wine and song and we certainly had a fun time. Since our first rally we became hooked and have now participated in the Whitsunday Rendezvous three times. We have seen some of the most beautiful parts of the Whitsundays and had many an unforgettable fancy Multihull Solutions Whitsunday Rendezvous dress party and received multihullsolutions.com.au/events some great prizes. Now enjoying legendary status among Asia Pacific’s cruising community, If you enjoy good Multihull Solutions’ Whitsunday Rendezvous has set the benchmark for fun sailing, fun company, social rallies. Staged every second September, the rally kicks off from Hamilton daily organised Island’s landmark Yacht Club and embarks on a week-long safari around the activities, great food majestic Whitsunday Islands. The region’s most famous anchorages – and some and entertainment in special ones known only to locals – are incorporated into the cruising itinerary, some of the nicest places balanced by a social calendar that takes entertainment to a whole new level! Australia has to offer, Between cocktails, participants enjoy fishing, snorkelling and bushwalks to you must join the team sacred Aboriginal sites featuring 9000-year-old cave paintings. Arguably of Multihull Solutions for the highlights of the week include the company’s famous Whitehaven Beach their next Rendezvous! Prawn and Punch party and hilarious Figurehead competition, which brings out the extrovert in even the quietest of cruisers. The rally concludes with a Simon & Christine lively presentation evening on the Keel Deck of Hamilton Island’s Yacht Club Griffiths -Fantastique with awards given and registration forms routinely requested for the next Whitsunday Rendezvous.

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The Capable Cat: SAONA 47 Fountaine Pajot raises the bar with the new Saona 47, and the catamaran’s combination of comfort and seaworthiness carves a perfect niche between its siblings, the Helia 44 Evolution and Saba 50.

By Kevin Green

amed after a Caribbean island - for Fountaine Pajot often distinguishes itself. where the shallow-drafted Saona The Saona 47 design creates three levels of 47 would be ideal - this cruising cat living space and a completely sheltered aft offers three levels of useable space deck which extends the interior living space, Nto give sailors plenty of options while having while the sail controls are safely located on an extensive sailplan for passagemaking. an elevated starboard bulkhead. This layout Defining features include its 9.2m2 lounge has proved a popular design for both the deck and a hydraulic swim platform for those Saba 50 and Helia 44 and continues on the long days at anchor. Below decks there are Saona 47. up to five cabins, and all this is contained Steps from the aft deck lead to the in a more rounded hull shape and generally starboard helmstation where the sail controls smoother aesthetic than its two siblings are separated by a walkway. These steps can mentioned earlier. also have the liferaft behind for quick access. This arrangement is a signature feature of FIRST LOOK the brand. Ideal for crewed and shorthanded Ambling down the dock at La Grande sailing, it allows the trimmer plenty of room Motte – Europe’s largest multihull show – to to work the two electric Lewmar 50s and one seek out the new Saona 47 was quite an manual 55 winch for halyards and sheets. experience for me because the competition Lines are tidied away in large bins which to this cruiser was near at hand. Show avoids the passageway becoming untidy. debuts included the new Leopard 45 and Behind the helm lies the main track, Nautitech 46 Fly, so there was little room which sits at the end of the boom so offers for complacency. Cruising cats like these maximum control of the square-top . and the Saona 47 are distinguished by their The wide bench seat at the helm comfortably volume, having well designed hull shapes seats two, and the small binnacle allows with mini keels (rather than performance movement around it should the steerer need daggerboards) and layouts that are generally to dart forward to trim after switching on the more suited to liveability rather than purely Garmin autopilot. Nearby are steps to the life under sail. flybridge cockpit – more than a mere sunbed Given that most boats of this type as found on the smaller model – which has spend the majority of their time stationary, ample headroom under the alloy boom when liveability is a key point and this is where at anchor.

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ALL-WEATHER COCKPIT WALKING SPACE The all-weather aspect of the aft cockpit is Flat topsides are a major attraction for a major feature on the Saona 47 allowing cruising cat buyers, a fact Fountaine Pajot diners to enjoy the outside table yet be right is acutely aware of, which is why the Saona beside the interior galley. Wide doors and a has wide sidedecks with flush hatches and sliding galley window create an airy through a foredeck for relaxing and entertaining. A space, which is ideal for the tropics yet can smaller trampoline area in favour of larger be closed during inclement weather, while nacelle creates space for three sunpads, but the fibreglass roof allows the entire area to the practicalities aren’t neglected. A deep be enclosed with clear plastic if needed. central locker houses a vertical Lewmar A practical internal design by Isabelle windlass/capstan which has a short run Racoupeau creates a very liveable space to the nacelle front where the anchor sits, with near-upright outside bulkheads to so there’s no rode to endanger children minimise sun intrusion and maximise volume. or unwary guests. A second roller is also The corner lounge has a coffee table as available for a spare anchor while the standard but dining and multi-function table fibreglass bowsprit proves long enough to options can be fitted), and the navigation give good separation between the Code 0 station is large with main switchboard and the forestay. Sizeable cleats all around, nearby in the corridor to the owner’s cabin. including midships, are other good features Good practicalities include a swing seat at on the Saona. Looking aft, the hydraulic teak- the chart table allowing more space when clad swim platform is an option worth having needed and large opening front windows. as it doubles as a dinghy bench. The galley is spread across the aft part Our review boat (Hull #1) came with a of the saloon with an island bench that carbon and versatile on cabin- acts as a supporting bulkhead for crew mounted spars. A carbon Maxam mast (from when in a seaway. Clear views aft mean Poland) is attached to an alloy Z Spars boom washing up in the double sinks isn’t a chore with guttering and lazy jacks for gathering and there’s a four-burner gas stove with the Incidences mainsail. The sail is panelled separate oven/microwave. Good for those using Hydronet sailcloth – a tightly woven long cruises is the energy-efficient twin- polyester mixed with dyneema – which allows drawer refrigeration for perishables and both easy sail handling with longevity and there’s ample cupboard space. Our boat also minimum stretch sailcloth. Fountaine Pajot had the optional drawer freezer beneath Flagship director Yves de Kerangat told me the starboard pantry. Some buyers might that you save about seven per cent weight prefer fiddles on the composite worktops with the carbon mast, which adds stiffness and smoother edges on the bulkheads, but and reduces pitching. Single wire shrouds this only slightly detracts from what is a hold up the rig with large chain plates to comfortable space with abundant natural spread the load of the squared-top mainsail. light from the large surrounding windows and skylights. RACOUPEAU-DESIGNED HULL Top: The Improving performance is an ongoing facet, foredeck has even for sedate cruising , so FIVE CABINS been fitted with television screen swings out for viewing in Our review boat was the three-cabin owner’s decadent sun bed. Forward is the bathroom which has Fountaine Pajot has collaborated with the Maestro version (plus skipper’s bunk) which loungers. a huge longitudinal shower cubicle with iconic the Berret-Racoupeau design house to devotes the entire port hull to a spacious opening portlight and separate electric optimise the Saona 47. The more curvaceous master suite that is sealed off by a sliding toilet in the bow. Beyond this is a large bow topsides are matched by a similarly shaped door. Alternatively, and with chartering in storage locker for light bulky equipment. nacelle and inner gunwhales to reduce mind, five cabins can be specified (with Ideally a full-height water-tight bulkhead wave drag. Hull and deck construction is by five bathrooms). Stepping down into the would be incorporated here (and can be infusion to optimise the fibre/resin ratio that port owner’s cabin brings you to a vast fitted), but the lower one is incorporated impregnates the foam core, while the saloon space with towering headroom reflecting in this space and still provides positive roof is injection moulded. tall topsides. These stairs cover the escape flotation for the vessel. Underneath, moulded mini keels give hatches – essential on any sailing catamaran The guest accommodation in the directional stability and modestly sized twin – which can be opened (rather than broken) starboard hull is an equally comfortable area rudders control the Saona. The volume in the in an emergency. The owner can enjoy views with spacious semi-island bed and ensuite. aft of the hulls was apparent when I opened aft from the rectangular window over the Forward is an athwartships island bed with an engine hatch, which showed the 50 HP large island bed, plus there’s an opening corridor bathroom. The large cupboard four-cylinder Volvo saildrive dwarfed by its porthole for that welcome breeze at anchor. in the corridor can also house an optional surroundings, leaving plenty of space in the Moving into the cabin’s centre, the vanity washer/dryer, which runs from an 11kw Onan port bay for the Onan generator and filters. Top: The spacious saloon has excellent natural light and ventilation. desk is dual purpose and surrounded by generator. Underbed storage is another Middle: The modern galley has an island bench and ample storage. Also, quick access is available here for the deep lacquered cupboards with others good feature in all cabins. Beyond this is a Bottom: The luxurious master suite comprises an entire hull. steering crossbar and rudder stocks. finished in light Alpi wood, while the large crew cabin in this port bow with single bunk.

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Above: The Saona 47 has a 9m2 lounge deck and a MEDITERRANEAN SAIL to allow the sail to fill, while on the helm I tender lift that The Med is typically a hard taskmaster for eased the catamaran off the wind to about doubles as sailing yachts as it either blows too much 160 degrees, pushing our speed to 10 knots. a swimming or too little, and our test sail provided the The elevated starboard helm gave me clear platform. latter with 7 knots gently caressing the views of main and the Code 0 while just in smooth seas. To cope with these conditions front of me the crew trimmed the sheets. and minimise engine hours, a wide sail plan Being separate from the binnacle prevents is required. Our Saona 47 came with a large the steerer from trimming the sheets, but this Code 0 sheathed inside a snuffer for quick layout does allow plenty of room for crew to deployment and dousing. Once we’d hoisted do their job. So when it came to gybing the the Code 0 on its furling line – the halyard is Code 0 I concentrated on turning the rather at the mast base – the sock was peeled back large steel steering wheel while my crewmate trimmed and a third person walked the clew around the forestay as we changed heading. On port tack trimming was done from a remote winch near the port quarter (while SOANA 47 SPECIFICATIONS starboard was managed from the coachroof bank of winches). LOA: 13.94m / 46 ft Wanting to sail nearer the wind, the snuffer sock was easily pulled down over the Code Beam: 7.70m 0, and the long sausage of sail dropped on the foredeck while my crewmate unfurled Draft: 1.3m the , which allowed me to point the Displacement: 13,800 kg cat at 50 degrees apparent with our speed slowing to 4 knots. Shorthanded in these 2 Main Sail Area: 75m light conditions, the engines would likely be Genoa area: 52m2 spun up so I did so, reaching a top speed of 8.8 knots with the Volvo 50HP spinning at Volvo Penta 2 x 50 HP sail drives Engines: 2,000 RPM, while dropping the revs to 2,200 (60 HP option) still gave a nippy cruising speed of 7.9 knots Water: 700 l (but no fuel burn figures were shown). Our afternoon showed the Saona 47 to be Fuel: 2 x 470 l a very capable cruising catamaran reflecting Fountaine Pajot’s vast experience in building Design: Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design comfortable and seaworthy boats.

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high school and Mike and I were entering our fifties, so although there was no great rush we became swiftly obsessed with how to turn the dream into a reality. This is the story of how we are making it happen. It has not been a whimsical notion. The last two years have been spent studying books, reading blogs, searching the net and doing a bit of sailing, all in readiness for us to depart from France in two years’ time. We know we have a lot more work to do but are inspired by the people before us who have done similar voyages. It has become an obsession that we have talked of and made plans for almost every day. Today marks the March 12, 2015 day that all our deliberations have paid off - The dream started for me two years ago when big decisions have been made and now we Mike stated he has always wanted to own a put it all into action. yacht. My interest was piqued immediately; I have always loved the idea of sailing and March 31, 2015 being near the water, but neither of us have The last two weeks have been hectic - an had much sailing experience. exciting, tumultuous, stressful, sleep- Our lives are pretty hectic. Mike is employed depriving fortnight. But in a nutshell, we Follow the early stages of fulltime and I run our family business. We also bought a boat! It is a NEEL 45 cruising SCOUT novice sailors Natalie and have a farm in the Northern Rivers of New , which we have commissioned to be Mike King’s journey as they South Wales and six children. The only way built in La Rochelle in France. The deposit has we wanted to own a yacht was to make sure been paid and contracts have been signed. turn the kernel of a cruising AROUND THE we would have the time to enjoy it. We will pick up our new boat on 10 March dream into a remarkable We decided fairly quickly that our dream 2017 and start our adventure, eventually adventure collecting their scenario would be to buy a new yacht and to heading back to Australia. NEEL 45 trimaran Scout fulfil the adventure side of it at the same time: We have put our business and farm buy it in France and sail it back to Australia. equipment up for sale. Mike’s employer has ex-factory from France and But how could we possibly make this happen? agreed to grant two lots of six month’s leave world sailing her back to Australia. Our two youngest kids were just finishing so we are free to sail the Mediterranean for X MULTIHULLSOLUTIONS.COM.AU MHS MAGAZINE X FEATURE STORY

December 1, 2016 January 30, 2017 With two weeks’ annual leave, we visited As Australians we are limited to how long we Scout in La Rochelle for the second time in 18 can spend in Europe or the areas designated months. It was great to meet NEEL CEO Eric as the Schengen zone. We are allowed Bruneel and his team and it confirmed to us 90 days in any 180-day period, which is a that we were right in choosing a NEEL 45. It is problem if you want to stay in Europe for a very industrious and impressive factory! more than three months. For us the solution To help with the production schedule of is to apply for long-stay visa in Greece. Today latest generation of NEEL , the we were granted an extended-stay visa in new 51, we agreed for Scout to be built Greece for eight months to cover the seven earlier than planned and this was done a few months we want to spend in Europe this year. This allows us three months we would normally get in Europe and then an additional “ We have lots of mixed emotions, but we’re five months to spend in Greece. The downside, we have to move from France to thrilled to have Scout as our new home and Greece in three months. The upside is we get to spend a leisurely four months cruising the the world waiting for us to explore.” Greek Isles without worrying about whether we are complying with the Schengen visa.

months ago. With the horrendous freight March 2, 2017 charges between Australia and France, it We’ve arrived in La Rochelle and the journey was also an opportunity to use a generous is beginning. Lots of mixed emotions, but 60kg flight baggage allowance and move we’re thrilled to have Scout as our new home some things onboard. To cap it off, Timothé and the world waiting for us to explore. Bruneel offered to take us out for a sail. It was Getting Scout registered before we left fantastic! We couldn’t wipe the smiles from was very challenging. An Australian vessel our faces for days. traveling internationally has to be registered The time in La Rochelle also let us make with Australian Maritime Safety Authority. contact with chandleries, open an account We had been forewarned that it does takes a and search local stores for purchases next while and it’s a heads up for those following March. We certainly feel better prepared for in our footsteps. Original paperwork has to our arrival next year and can do some online come from the boatbuilder, and make sure shopping from home in the meantime. they provide the right form. Right down to We had a wonderful time in France. We the wire and even with Australia Post losing visited our friends in Champagne and finished our original boatbuilder’s certificate,Scout the trip by running a marathon along the is now registered - one day after we left! In Top: Mike and April 3, 2015 Nat running a amazing coastline from Nice to Cannes. 30-degree temperatures and with our sailing Naming a boat is no easy feat. It has to be a I can confidently say it is all coming together, marathon from jackets on to maximise luggage allowance, Nice to Cannes. name that encompasses many concepts you perhaps even better than we may have we managed to get through check-in without feel strongly about stand the test of time. planned. Eighteen months ago, the prospect any dreaded extra freight charges. We had We both liked the idea of a girl’s name but of what we had to do seemed daunting and chosen to fly into Geneva and then drove to wanted it to be strong and feisty, see us safely our two-year timeframe seemed endless, La Rochelle. We found Scout waiting in the through adventure and times of trouble, but but time has gone by so fast and everything harbour for us and did a quick drop-in at also be soft and sweet when just cruising seems to have naturally fallen into place. NEEL. Timothé escorted us to the boat and along. We wanted it to embrace exploration We knew we needed additional training handed us the keys. We fell in love with her all and adventure and be short, sharp and to give us confidence in sailing offshore and over again. succinct. A lot to ask for in a girl’s name! handling a larger boat. Mike has attended I got straight into nesting mode and started We deliberated for weeks. To Kill A two live-aboard offshore courses, attained unpacking and adding to a long list of things Mockingbird is one of our favourite books his RYA Day Skipper qualification and gained to buy. Mike sifted through all the manuals and the characters resonated with us. Scout experience with both passage planning and and Timothé explained systems to him. I could was feisty, trusting, endearing and warmed hands-on practice, while I completed my RYA tell Mike was going to have a lot to digest over our hearts when we read the book at school. Competent Crew qualification. the next few days and we were not in a rush to Adding to this is the imagery of a scout going The New Year arrived and I also decided to go sailing yet. Besides the weather was not so ahead to explore and discover. become conversational in French. We have, nice and Timothé said Scout had to be moved On a practical note, the boat’s name usually of course, a French boat and what better that afternoon into the marina, which was a adorns a trimaran’s centre hull. It’s not a very way to get to know her and her builders and little more private with better facilities. wide area, so a short name is a perfect fit. environment than to learn the local language. We took her out for a 30-minute motor Scout: I don’t think we could have picked a We’ve spent endless days reading blogs around to the marina with Mike at the helm better name. and watching informative Youtube cruising scooting through the loch and under the two videos, plus countless hours researching all raised bridges. Eric Bruneel joined us also. We November 24, 2016 the conflicting information on everything appreciate how lucky we are to also have Eric We’ve had a busy 18 months and are on from what anchor to buy to what bedsheets Top: Mike gets the keys to Scout after the official handover with and Timothé Bruneel directly involved with track for our March departure. It’s been a are best in the tropics. I don’t think we have NEEL Trimarans in La Rochelle. the handing over of Scout and cannot fault whirlwind of changes and developments, but turned on the television for 18 months! NEEL Trimarans for their excellent service.

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March 12, 2017 We’ve had a ridiculously busy week in La Rochelle, completely underestimating Left: Nat flies the flag for Australia as they how much was involved in getting a boat prepare to depart France. equipped. The good news is that it’s just about done and next week we’re going to sink our teeth into some sailing practice. The week started with horrendous weather. La tempête Zeus arrived across France and left a trail of seasick. I couldn’t hold down tablets and destruction in its wake. The wind and waves ended up applying a ‘mal de mer’ patch. They in the marina were crazy with gusts over 50 are amazing. They last three days and I have knots. It didn’t dampen our enthusiasm; we felt fine ever since. They are not available in just kept doing the things that had to be done. Australia and I will definitely be ordering more We were honoured to be invited by Eric from New Zealand. Time seems to have no Bruneel to inspect his new NEEL 51 which was meaning or relevance during a passage. Sleep launched this week. Wow! What a difference is grabbed when you can, and it is either light six feet makes in a boat. It is huge and very or dark. You must be awake for your shift, and luxuriously appointed. Were we jealous? No, meals are heated when conditions allow (I’m the NEEL 45 is perfect for us. glad I did all the cooking before I left). I can We managed to get out for a few sails and now only relate to how long we have till we for the first time by ourselves. Winds ranged reach our destination. from 20 knots to very calm seven knots. Mike It’s now 3am and the seas have settled a is managing well and we’ve had some fairly bit. Still rocking and rolling but none of the difficult manoeuvres getting on and off a huge crashing and banging that was going parallel-parked dock. We’re getting lots of on at midnight. We have only the jib out advice and assistance from other boat owners and the wind is coming from behind. We are who come to our aid when they see us. I’m comfortably sitting between 6 and 8 knots. sure they’re just terrified we are going to hit The chart plotter shows me there is some them, but we are very grateful! The outcome other crazy sailor beside us about 9 miles of our week is that we are not ready yet to set away on the same heading. It is comforting to off by ourselves. We’re hoping to back up that know that someone else is out here and the which has already been learned with another conditions must not be too bad at all. Maybe round of sail training in La Rochelle. we will see them in A Coruña. Am I enjoying this? It is hard to say. I am March 20, 2017 not terrified, just uncomfortable. But I did Another week has passed and for a few know that was always going to be part of the reasons we still haven’t been able to make experience. Yesterday I wasn’t so good but that leap to our first destination. It has, seasickness can dampen anyone’s experience. however, been quite pleasant and productive Tonight it is different. I am certainly more Top: The port despite the stagnation. We’ve used this relaxed during my shift and, in fact, I think I’m of La Rochelle. time to keep stocking the boat and build a day, but they keep changing. It’s going to be enjoying it. During the day, being couped up our sailing skills and systems. We had two Bottom: Mike a matter of picking it the night before because “I knew would have to develop bravery inside has its limits but now sitting up at the full-day lessons with Alain Girard, which rests during a of the variables in changing weather and helmstation in the dark, it’s very peaceful. rough crossing and tenacity when we first considered this proved invaluable. Alain has shared his swells. Personally, I have loved La Rochelle The wind has dropped off a bit, which is to Spain. systems and sailing procedures with us and and enjoyed using my French and getting voyage, but I never considered patience.” good. Mike was concerned we were going we’ve learnt a lot about Scout and how to used to living onboard, but it is definitely time too fast and may arrive in the dark, but we’re sail and manoeuvre her, both at sea and to get going. going to go wide around the cape into Spain docking. We’ve obtained advice on fender normal for the Bay of Biscay – I just hope it and take our time with hopefully a controlled management and position, marks on halyards March 25, 2017 isn’t normal conditions for future legs. arrival. Looking forward to tapas and sangria! and sheets for the raising of the mainsail and What a ride! There is no storm, just huge Challenging conditions began once we PS: The crew of the boat beside us during reefs – all things that we had not considered winds, but we are being tossed around rounded île d’Oléron. We had one reef in the the passage were at port when we arrived at and appreciate now how it will benefit us. like we’re inside a washing machine. I can’t mainsail, and with the genoa out we sailed at A Coruña. They are professional crew moving We also bought a Brompton collapsible see outside as it is dark and we lost our about 9 knots until 1800. We took seasickness new catamarans to Croatia for each summer. bike. We chose not to get a watermaker or wind instruments 12 hours ago, so we can’t tablets before departure and felt pretty He said the crossing was one of better ones, washing machine installed on Scout, so even definitively tell what the wind is doing or good. First night we ended up motoring as and they got caught in the storms which we just getting bottled water back and forth from where it’s coming from. We are no longer there was not enough wind, but still the sea had avoided. So there you go, I had no idea a store almost 2kms away was difficult. This seasick, but this would have to be the worst was confused. Our first night shifts began. what was considered a bad crossing after all! bike, which we have called Atticus, is perfect. ride I could ever have imagined. Our outer Not quite the confident sailor, I was dreading It folds to fit into one of our lockers and will hulls sound like they’re smashing into the sea, it. What if I did something wrong or missed April 5, 2017 be easy to get on and off our tender. and I can’t sleep. something critical or the wind changed during I knew would have to develop bravery and This Wednesday (my 52nd birthday) is our We are not scared. I feel very secure and my shift? Fortunately, with only the motor tenacity when we first considered sailing planned departure to Spain. I hope we can safe in Scout. We have no leaks or damage, powering us, there was not much that could around the world, but I never considered celebrate it crossing the Bay of Biscay. Mike and I have no idea how this experience rates go wrong. The next morning the waves were patience. It’s a virtue we’ve had to happily checks the forecasted weather patterns twice to other experienced sailors. It is probably larger, some at four metres, and I became embrace and practise in our first month,

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particularly during our time in A Coruña. hour watches with four-hour rests. The wind these six very high bridges. Lots of tourists rounded Cabo Da Roca. This is the most We arrived after a 55-hour crossing from has dropped, it’s a clear night and we’re didn’t dampen our enthusiasm as we explored western point of mainland Europe and where La Rochelle, and were eager to get off the motoring at six knots. We’ve just crossed the sights and indulged in too much seafood the world believed, for many centuries from boat as we approached a marina. A man into Portugal. Unlike our last crossing there and wine. A highlight was stumbling across Roman times, was the end of the earth. It is signalled us in: “Welcome, welcome!” But are beautiful lights to guide us on our way. a local football club with their verandah bar aptly named ‘Land’s End’. Well, we rounded no, wait! Someone else has to move first. We Narrow coastal cities are beautifully lit yellow perched over the river. It’s set on a path that that cape and thought we had reached the made another circuit around the entrance and and white along the beaches. What I imagine is constructed entirely of steps. Walking up end of the earth. Crazy wind change, high then we were in. “No problema!” A much- to be steep rising mountains behind have with the path you pass people’s front doors, see seas – we bashed and crashed for the next used phrase over the next week and sure to red lights adorning the top. Warm, friendly into their lives and wonder how these little old few hours into Cascais. We were covered in become part of our everyday cruising life. Our white lights shine from headland lighthouses. ladies tackle this steep path everyday! salt, and Mike was exhausted after the lengthy fellow trans-Bay of Biscay sailors confirmed There are no stars out tonight, but a calm We said goodbye to James in Porto and check-in procedure at the marina. what Mike had already deduced: we would peacefulness with the engine purring and the set off for a 24-hour crossing to Cascais. Ten Cascais is a beautiful town: quaint with have to wait another week until we could sound of the waves moving over the hulls. It minutes out of Porto, we couldn’t believe the immaculate houses and interesting lanes that leave. No problema! is magical. I am in no rush to get to Porto. I’m amount of fishing pots everywhere – there wind around inlet beaches. The town buzzed We loved A Coruña and the slower pace of loving this new life: slow, calm and patient. was one about every square kilometre! The with tourists, and I’m glad we weren’t there life where everything is mañana (tomorrow). Minesweeper computer game came to mind in the heart of summer. It was a very busy, The marina is right in the middle of the city. April 9, 2017 as we dodged and weaved our way out to expensive marina with dreadful internet. Little laneways are filled with people ambling It’s always exciting arriving in a new port: sea. We did have an altercation with one, and Our next sail was a 9-hour day trip to Sines. without a care in the world. I loved practising coming round a headland, entering a river, not the noise as it scraped between our hulls was It was the first time Mike really got to relax my Spanish and conversations with the marina sure what is round the next corner, excited to sickening. We decided to get out as far as and enjoying sailing Scout. Not only was manager who spoke little English were fun. explore. And Portugal, in the three ports that possible where we could safely navigate our he becoming used to her, but we had some The weather forced us and our fellow sailors, we visited, did not disappoint. way south. favourable winds where we could just sail for the delivery crew, to stay in A Coruña for the Our first destination was Porto. The view A memorable moment was when we a change instead of battling to get where we week. If they weren’t leaving earlier despite as we approached the marina was grand! I wanted to go. We arrived in Sines relaxed and their strict delivery timeframes, we certainly knew that Porto was a city of bridges, but high on the thrill of our ongoing adventure. wouldn’t either. We filled the week walking there, right in front of our marina, was bridge “We exist independently of everything We loved Sines, a small town perched high around the town, getting back into some number one. These bridges set the scene for on a headland with a beach and harbour Below and running and visiting Santiago de Compostela. the rest of our visit. We walked into town 3km else, but I love plotting our location in below it. It’s so high there’s even a lift from opposite: The But now I’m sitting at our inside helmstation along the river, and around each corner were the city ridge down to the beach. From the dramatic city on our way to Porto in Portugal. It is 2.30am. amazed by the view. Porto is set along steep sea, you approach two rock walls and round of Porto with relationship to it.” With our son James onboard, we have two- the inlet into a pretty harbour - another steep, winding banks up from the river, thus the need for delightful surprise. The weather window paths to locals’ front doors. forced us to wait here for four days and we couldn’t have picked a better place to rest. We were regrouping for our next big passage, a 48-hour hop to Gibraltar.

April 13, 2017 We planned to depart Sines at a time that would have us arrive at the Straits at dawn. Sines has a Customs department so we could check out of the Schengen zone to head to non-Schengen Gibraltar. This would help us preserve the 90 days we are limited to in Europe. Gibraltar is a big hangout for non- Europeans also trying to comply with the policy. So we’d have two days’ sailing and perhaps three days in Gibraltar, and another two days’ sail until in Spain again. The early afternoon began with no breeze. Although we were motoring it was lovely to be out on the glassy sea. By 3pm we were sailing in perfect conditions: full sails out and comfortably doing 8 knots. Mike was meant to be resting but couldn’t help taking the helm, wanting to constantly trim the sails to learn more about how Scout responds. It was our most delightful afternoon so far, and at this rate we’d in Gibraltar well before planned. Just over a month into this sailing life and I’m loving it. While discovering different places and cultures is fantastic, I’m most loving getting there by sail and learning new skills. I’ve always liked numbers, procedures and maps, and even though I knew would love

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“For the next 90 minutes, I motored directly into the moon’s rising path - a truly memorable moment!”

go to Lagos, and here we were bobbing off the coast. We may even have to pull in there for repairs. There was a full moon and pretty lights illuminating the coast. Mike and I took turns sleeping and lit the boat up like a Christmas tree so no one would run into us. At dawn, Mike braved the cold and dived under to cut free the float from a fishing net, and we were soon underway again. We were eight hours’ behind schedule so decided to motor more than planned and set course for the remaining passage at an average seven knots. The rest of the trip was uneventful, although I became completely paranoid about fishing nets and pots and my eyes were always the obvious wind-in-my-hair analogy, what I Top: Mike and peeled. Mike woke me on Thursday morning enjoy more than expected is increasing my Nat enjoy a at the start of the Straits of Gibraltar. We understanding of wind angles, bearings and paella lunch in had both been looking forward to it and he headings, the difference between true and Ibiza. didn’t want me to miss it. The sea was choppy apparent wind speed, and keeping a log. We with currents escaping unevenly from the have our own little world on this boat and narrow channel of water between two large exist independently of everything else, but I land masses. There wasn’t as much ship love plotting our location in relationship to it. traffic as I’d anticipated, but there was one That evening we made it to Cabo Sao of the largest freighters I had ever seen with Vincente, the southwestern point of Portugal, containers stacked about six high! On our where we start turning east towards the right was Africa and on our left was Europe. Straits of Gibraltar and the Med. We had to go At its narrowest, the channel is only 14 kms. around two headlands to get on this heading Gibraltar was spectacular on approach. With and arrived at the first on sunset. A majestic the hazy morning it reminded me of Hong lighthouse had just turned on its light. The sun Kong: low visibility, steep cliffs, tall buildings, was setting to our right as we made our way and, of course, lots of ships in the harbour. around the cape, and as soon as we turned Unfortunately, Gibraltar was not to be. we could see the second headland with a There was no room at the marina, which was full moon rising over it. It was breathtaking! unsurprising as it’s popular for those with visa The wind had disappeared so we dropped restrictions like us. It was the same just over the sails and became what we fondly call MV the border into Spain where both marinas Scout. For the next 90 minutes, I motored were full. Never mind. We were so excited to directly into the moon’s rising path - a truly be in the Mediterranean that we decided to memorable moment! keep on going. The Costa del Sol was waiting But shortly after, that tranquillity was for us! shattered. We hit a net or fishing pot – what a fright! A loud crash, then a sickening noise from the engine as the prop churned with something wrapped around it. There was also a loud banging as the float attached to the pot hit the hull. Immediately Mike turned off the engine and tried it in reverse, but no luck. We just couldn’t get free or see it underneath. CONTINUE FOLLOWING SCOUT’S JOURNEY No engine, no wind and not much choice Website: scoutaroundtheworld.com but to drift eight hours until daybreak. As Facebook: facebook.com/scoutaroundtheworld a positive, there was no wind, no current, Instagram: @scoutaroundtheworld calm seas and we were only three nautical Youtube channel: Scout Around the World miles from shore. I had always wanted to

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Running on INSTINCT

Visionary entrepreneur, ambitious racer, unconventional leader: NEEL Trimarans founder Eric Bruneel is bucking the system and turning the traditional notion of cruising multihulls on its head.

hen NEEL Trimarans launched multihull behaviour in both racing and cruising its first trimaran, the NEEL 50, modes. in 2009 it ratcheted multihull In 1983 Bruneel joined Fountaine Pajot, cruising up a notch and made bringing with him the concept of the Corneel Wthe marine industry stop and take notice. Its 26, a day cruising catamaran with modest revolutionary design combined the speed accommodation that went on to be awarded potential of a lightweight trimaran with the Boat of the Year by several marine magazines. space and creature comforts of the world’s Outside of the factory Bruneel was busy leading cruising catamarans in a package like finishing the construction of his 50-foot none the world had ever seen. trimaran Trilogic, which he designed for entry With the slogan “Just Makes Sense” into the gruelling Singlehanded Transat race. blazoned over the central hull, NEEL Leading up to the event, he worked with thumbed its nose at design conservatives meteorologist Jean-Yves Bernot to collate as the trimaran sliced through the water in weather data and calculated that shorter, preliminary sea trials reaching nine knots in sturdier would be ideal for this just 12kts of wind and later recording almost bruising contest. 20 knots in stronger conditions. But the “I knew that the Singlehanded Transat was catchphrase was more than a mere marketing going to be sailed mostly upwind in rough tag to describe the shipyard’s range, which conditions,” said Bruneel. “So I decided to has since produced four models, including remain conservative by choosing a smaller the newly launched NEEL 51. It encapsulated rig that saved weight and was easier on the remarkable journey of founder Eric the skipper with fewer sail changes. We Bruneel from the dusty floor of one of the calculated the trade-off in lost sail area and world’s leading multihull manufacturers to the performance and found that it would be less pinnacles of industry innovation. than one day.” The Frenchman was born in landlocked It was a tactical decision that paid off. Lyon where Bruneel’s parents instilled in As 50-knot winds and four weather fronts him a love of the outdoors and an interest in battered the rest of the field forcing the music. He became proficient with the flute retirement of many taller-rigged yachts who and attended a local conservatory, and he still had headed north, Bruneel kept on a straight plays piano when the opportunity arises. southerly course and battened down while Bruneel graduated from university with a studying wind and weather as often as he degree in accounting but spent his spare time could to plot the perfect race into Boston. He on the water where his inquisitive nature saw crossed the line in a time of 14 days, 1 hour, 23 him analysing boat design and performance minutes and 37 seconds at an average speed under various conditions. At the age of 20, he of 8.32 knots. built his first boat and crossed the Atlantic on Bruneel didn’t just complete the passage it a year later. He spent many years racing in from England on his first attempt; he won his big events and honing his understanding of class and set a new transatlantic record for

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With over 30 trimarans ordered since the shipyard’s launch in 2012, this visionary’s philosophy of ‘disruptive innovation’ has been a defining key to his success.

50-foot multihulls, slicing more than two days off the existing mark. Bruneel took Trilogic on to victory in the 2005 Rolex Fastnet Race and placed second in the 2006 Route du Rhum. Back on dry land, Bruneel used his strategic instincts to further develop the success of Fountaine Pajot as the world leader in cruising catamarans. As export manager and later managing director, he took an active part in the design, production and marketing of numerous models, with hundreds of the power and sailing cats now a standard sight on oceans the world over. In 2009, he struck out on his own to launch NEEL Trimarans with the goal of creating a new aesthetic and standard in naval architecture. The company opened its factory in La Rochelle, the picturesque boating capital of France, and its first model garnered instant Far Left: NEEL Founder attention. Its first model, the NEEL 50, was and CEO Eric Bruneel followed by the 45, and 65, and it’s currently Left: The original NEEL building one boat every two months. The 45 ‘just makes sense’. shipyard’s latest innovation, the NEEL 51, has Bottom: The NEEL 65 just been launched and is the first cruising and 45 set the pace. trimaran in the world to infuse all three hulls in one process. NEEL’s innovation lies in the integration of the trimarans’ two outrigging hulls with the connecting platform to create a unified living space, which includes the bridge, a central galley and a magnificent panoramic lounge. The proportions of the trimarans offer a equipment is located in the main central hull main hull. This configuration allows for a rigid generous roof area, guaranteeing surprising whereas it is distributed half and half in each forestay and great performance upwind.” internal volume. The entire volume of the hull on a catamaran. This centred weight is Modest about his own achievements, central hull is devoted to systems – the engine, a key to the trimarans’ smooth performance Bruneel also lets the performance of his NEEL electronics, electrical wiring and plumbing, and comfort at sea.” trimarans speak for themselves. The NEEL 51 diesel and water tanks as well as long-term The shipyard’s trimarans have also proven has been nominated in the Multihull category supply storage. The large space available in their mettle in the speed stakes. With an for the 2018 European Yacht of the Year the lazarette and the high headroom ensure average cruising speed of around 10 knots, awards, and in 2013 the NEEL 45 won SAIL easy access for maintenance of equipment NEEL’s trimarans can comfortably achieve Magazine’s ‘Best Boat’ and Cruising World’s and simple optional installation of generators, over 240 nautical miles in 24 hours with ‘Boat of the Year’ awards with a judge of the desalinators or air conditioning systems. speeds of 15-18 knots often reached when the latter, Tim Murphy, declaring that “sailing this Bruneel recognised early that a trimaran breeze freshens. boat was the happiest sailing experience I had has the potential for even greater stability “The superiority of the trimaran is even this entire contest.” The 45 also went on to than a catamaran in heavy conditions. more obvious when sailing upwind,” said win the 2015 ARC Multihull division, and NEEL “On a catamaran the maximum righting Bruneel. “On a catamaran, the forestay pulls has now built 23 units of this model. moment occurs at 12° heeling. However, on from the front beam, the mast compresses With over 30 trimarans ordered since the a trimaran, this maximum righting moment a central beam and the shrouds pull the two shipyard’s launch in 2012, this visionary’s does not occur until 32° heeling, therefore floats supporting the forestay and mast beam: philosophy of ‘disruptive innovation’ has been in normal multihull conditions of use, this this platform deforms in many directions. a defining key to his success. And with the angle is never reached,” Bruneel said. “The Consequently, it is then impossible to have NEEL 51 shattering more assumptions about trimarans also have less roll motion as the a rigid forestay. On a trimaran, the forestay, multihull performance and design, Bruneel’s centre of buoyancy is never far downwind mast and mainsail tension are structurally razor-sharp instincts are now focused on what like on a catamaran. “All the significant heavy bonded to one strong, longitudinal beam: the is possible in the future.

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