Why A Tri?

NEEL Trimarans Is Changing The Way People Think About Multihulls. Catamarans Are The Hottest Boats On The Market Right Now, But The Introduction Of The Cruising Trimaran May Very Well Be A Game-Changer.

When asked to picture a trimaran, what comes to most people’s minds is something racy. What you picture likely involves lots of carbon, a hull flying in the air, maybe even a highly-trained, helmet-clad crew, with minimal to no accommodations on board.

Though the benefits of a third hull have been proven for years in regattas around the globe, NEEL has blazed a tri-hulled trail through the multihull market with their cruising trimarans.

Why Are Three Hulls Superior To Two?

Safety

One of the most common concerns regarding the offshore performance of a catamaran is the likelihood of capsize. While it is uncommon, it is a real possibility that sailors face in rough conditions. The maximum righting moment for a catamaran is at 12° of heeling. The maximum righting moment of a trimaran is nearly three times that of the catamaran at 32°. The cruising trimaran’s low, centered weight in the center hull accounts for much of this added stability.

NEEL’s collision bulkheads alongside PVC foam construction ensure that even in the toughest of conditions or groundings, the vessel will keep captain and crew safely afloat.

Running gear is protected by the fin of the center hull.

A high average speed allows for optimal navigational planning (and more time at your destination).

A fractional rig allows for safe ease of solo or short-handed sailing.

Innovative Living Quarters

Each model NEEL offers provides at least one stateroom above the amas. This is a substantial benefit of the cruising trimaran when comparisons are made with a catamaran. Most catamarans’ staterooms are exclusively located in the hulls, which many find to be claustrophobia-inducing or simply unpleasant. Another benefit of the the cruising trimaran is found in the center hull. A hatch in the cabin sole of each NEEL Trimaran leads to the “basement” or engine room of the boat. With headroom over 6 feet and plentiful room to move about, engine and mechanical maintenance are made much easier than most boats of comparable size. For safety and convenience, all systems including watermakers, generators, and additional equipment are located in this center hull.

Proven Performance

Many NEEL Trimarans have crossed the Atlantic (one even won the ARC Multihull Division!) and there are multiple NEELs cruising around the globe. One of our favorites to follow is Scout Around the World, an Australian couple who are cruising their NEEL 45 and sharing their adventures on their blog and Facebook page.

If you have any questions or curiosities regarding these innovative boats, please feel free to reach out!