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The complete list of trimarans.

There is no single trimaran that is best for everyone. Where some prefer luxury cruisers for long trips with family and friends, others might opt for a high performance racing tri for thrilling rides at breakneck speeds. With the recent spike in trimaran popularity, these days there is a perfect tri for every sailor. So to help prospective trimaran owners decide which boat is just right for them, we here at WindRider have put together a comprehensive list of the best trimarans on the market today! Read through for simple at-a-glance trimaran comparisons of boats both big and small, exhilarating and relaxing, and for all price points.

Jump to a specific sailing trimaran: Neel Weta Corsair WindRider Dragonfly Catri Astus Hobie Sea Pearl Farrier Sea Cart Multi 23 Triak SeaRail Warren Lightcraft Diam Radikal Challenger

Known for their award-winning luxury trimarans,   NEEL   is based in La Rochelle, the capital city of sailing in France. NEEL trimarans are built for fast cruising with an average cruising speed of about 10 knots, and are even configured to facilitate that sustained speed under motor propulsion. The NEEL 45 was notably named Cruising World’s Most Innovative Vessel in 2013, and by all accounts is an easy-to-sail, high performance boat that is just plain fun.

At a glance:

Models: NEEL 45, 65

Length: 45’ – 65’

Cost:   $$$$$

Use: Luxury cruiser

A fan favorite,   Weta trimarans   are fast, stable, and remarkably easy to rig. This single-sailor tri has a capacity of up to three, and the ease with which it can be transported and stored makes this a great, versatile boat for beginners. The Weta was named Sailing World’s 2010 Boat of the Year, and one ride is enough to know why: simply put, the Weta is an absolute ton of fun to sail regardless of skill level.

Models: Weta

Length: 14’5”

Cost:   $$ $$$

The high-end   Corsair trimaran   definitely holds its own in the categories of versatility, performance, and convenience. Boasting a rigging time of 30 minutes from trailer to sailor ,   the Corsair 42 – whose convenient folding amas makes trailering possible – is a simple option even for single sailors, though cabin space is suitable for two adults. These boats are wicked fast, capable of reaching speeds of 20+ knots, and were made for skilled sailors seeking solid construction and high performance vessels, not for beginners.

Models: Pulse 600, Sprint 750 MKII, Dash 750 MKII, Corsair 28, Cruze 970, Corsair 37, Corsair 42

Length: 19’8” – 37’

Cost:   $$$$ $

Use: Sports cruisers

Built for the sailor who wants to maximize the joys of sailing while minimizing any hassle, WindRider trimarans are notoriously fast, very safe, and a blast to sail from start to finish. With several models that can hold between 1 and 6 riders, including adaptive designs to allow participation from sailors of all levels of mobility, there’s something to suit every sailor’s needs. The WindRider 17, an exhilarating ride perfect for families or camper sailors, has been known to reach speeds of up to 20mph. This easy day sailor goes from trailer to sailing in under 30 minutes and is sure to fit in perfectly with whatever adventures you have planned.

Models: WR 16, 17, Tango, Rave V

Length: 10’11” – 18’3”

Cost:   $ $$$$

Use: Day sailor

The Danish-built   Dragonfly   trimarans come in a variety of models ranging from 25’ – 35’, all known for their spry performance, comfortable ride, and ease of use. Every model comes equipped with the unique “SwingWing” feature, a motorized system that can unfold the amas even while the boat is already underway – making it accessible to marinas and slips, and even makes trailering possible. Perfect for those who don’t want to sacrifice their comfort for high performance, the Dragonfly can breeze along at 13 knots while remaining one of the quietest compact cruisers out there.

Models: Dragonfly 25, 28, 32, 35, 1200

Length: 25’ – 39’

Designed for both safe cruising as well as for high speed racing,   Catri trimarans   will make your day. Especially noteworthy is the Catri 25, a stable yet wildly fast foiling trimaran with accommodations for up to 6 people. With profiles optimized for speeds of 25+ knots when foiling, this is no beginner’s sailboat. The special attention paid to stability in the foil design allows the Catri to be a single sailor vessel, even at foiling speed, with no special physical abilities. Whether you’re taking a small crew for longer rides at shuddering speeds or bringing the whole family along for a shorter, but still thrilling sail, the Catri is truly one of a kind.

Models: Catri 25

Length: 25’

Use: Cruiser/racer

A popular brand of trimaran in Europe,   Astus   has recently made its way to the US market to the delight of sailors on this side of the pond. Designed to offer maximum pleasure with minimum hassle, all models of Astus trimarans are fast to set up, quick on the water, inherently stable, and always a joy to sail. Their outriggers are mounted on telescopic tubes for easy stowage and towing, and can even be extended and retracted on the water for access to narrow passageways and monohull slips in marinas. With models in all sizes and price points, Astus trimarans are a great option for any sailor.

Models: Astus 16.5, 18.2, 20.2, 22, 24

Cabin: Some models

Length: 16’ – 24’

Use: Sport cruisers

HOBIE ADVENTURE ISLAND

Great for beginners and adventurers alike, the   Hobie Mirage Adventure Island   series is nothing if not just plain fun. With the option to use as a kayak or as a very basic trimaran, the Hobie is transportable, versatile, unintimidating, lightweight, and wonderfully affordable. The pedal system known as “Mirage Drive” allows a person to pedal the kayak using their legs for an extra kick of movement in slow winds. Amas tuck close to the main hull for docking or car-topping, adding serious ease and convenience to the exhilarating experience of the Hobie.

Models: Hobie Mirage Adventure Island, Mirage Tandem Island

Length: 16’7” – 18’6”

Use: Convertible kayak/trimarans

Best known for its use in camp cruising excursions, the   Sea Pearl   offers a roomy main hull and particular ability to sail in very shallow waters, making beaching and launching a breeze. The lightweight Sea Pearl trimaran is easy to tow, and the larger-than-expected cabin opens this vessel up for overnight adventures with plenty of storage space. The simple design makes the Sea Pearl notoriously low maintenance, and the ease it takes to rig and sail it add to the overall delight of owning this boat.

Models: Sea Pearl

Length: 21’

Use: Camper cruiser

Quick, lightweight, roomy, and trailerable,   Farrier trimarans   are made for versatility to fit every sailor’s needs. Different Farrier models are available in plan or kit boat form for those who appreciate building their boat themselves, but of course, also as the full production sail-away boat for the rest of us. Single-handed rigging and launching takes under 10 minutes from start to finish, minimizing hassle and getting you on the water fast. All non-racing Farrier designs use a minimum wind capsize speed of 30 knots or more to ensure safety for all those aboard. Add the roomy cabin and high speed capabilities to the equation and you’ve got a boat that is great fun for everyone.

Models:   F-22, 24, 25, 82, 27, 28, 31, 9A, 9AX, 9R, 32, 33, 33R, 33ST, 36, 39, 41, 44R

Length: 23’ – 39’4”

Cost:   $$$ $$

Use: Sport cruisers/racers

One of the biggest names in the game,   SeaCart   is internationally noted for its high performance trimarans that far exceed expectations for a production boat of its size. The SeaCart trimaran performs as brilliantly off the water as it does on with its super-light and efficient harbor folding system, making light work of trailering. Notoriously easy to manage and maintain, the SeaCart 26 One Design is the ultimate day racing trimaran, designed for both course and inshore/coastal distance racing. Absolutely worth the international buzz it has garnered, the SeaCart is a thrill from beginning to end.

Models:   SeaCart 26

Length: 26’

A high performance racer class, the   Multi 23   is a lightweight, powerful trimaran known for its wicked speed of up to 25 knots. Multi trimarans of both available configurations were designed to give beach cat thrills and speed without any of the stability or seaworthy concerns. Open ocean sailing is no issue for the Multi’s big bows, which do their job to keep her stable. Built for sailors with a need for speed, the Multi makes a perfect weekend boat for racers, especially those with a taste for boat camping.

Models:   Multi 23

Length: 23’

Another dual outrigger sailing kayak/canoe design,   the Triak trimaran   was designed to be effortless and fun, especially for beginners. Paddle the kayak with sails furled, use the foot pedals for an extra kick of momentum, or sail with just the mainsail – the only boat in its class to feature an asymmetrical spinnaker – for exhilarating speeds and a blast on the water. Car-top the Triak anywhere for a quick sail or plan for a week long expedition, but always count on having a great time on this easy little boat.

Models:   Triak

Length: 18’

Use: Convertible kayak/trimaran

SeaRail trimarans   are known for being affordable, light weight, trailerable trimarans that offer the perfect combination of exciting and relaxing experiences to a wide range of sailors. Whether it’s day sailing with your family, resort or camper sailing, SeaRail trimarans are ideal leisure vessels. Leave the hassle to the other boats – the SeaRail takes you from trailer to sailor in 15 minutes. But don’t let its reputation as a leisure tri fool you: if speed is what you want, rest assured that the SeaRail can deliver that as well.

Models:   SeaRail 19

WARREN LIGHTCRAFT

Warren Lightcraft trimarans , another example of a convertible kayak-to-sailboat option, are known for their aesthetically pleasing designs that are also, as the name implies, very light for simple transportation and ease of use. Convert the kayak into a fast, high performance sailboat in just minutes, fly around on the waves all day long, then simply car-top the 68lb Warren for a maximum enjoyment, low-hassle day on the water. Perfect for sailors and paddlers of all skill levels, the Warren Lightcraft is the best of both worlds and an absolute joy to sail.

Models:   Warren Lightcraft

Length: 15’6”

Built strictly with racing in mind,   the Diam 24   is a light, powerful one-design class trimaran and a notoriously exceptional performer. Boasting blistering speeds of up to 30 knots, Diam trimarans are not intended for beginners. For racers who crave the very best in terms of intense speeds, smooth handling and impeccable performance, the Diam is the red-hot one-design racing tri for you.

Models:   Diam 24

Length: 24’

For the sailor who prefers the finer things in life, the   Radikal 26   delivers. Perfect for bringing the whole family out for a day on the water, this high performance, trailerable sailing trimaran strikes the most luxurious balance between quicksilver speeds and a smooth, comfortable ride. The Radikal 26 trimaran is as convenient to transport and set up as it is pleasant to sail, with a folding system that minimizes rigging hassle and also makes this a trailerable tri. Built for a fast and comfortable sail rather than a hold-onto-your-seats thrill, one-the-water safety and overall pleasure makes the Radikal 26 what it is.

Models:   Radikal 26

Use: Sport cruiser

A solidly-built, single-handed trimaran, the Challenger also doubles as an adaptive design – meaning it is made to accommodate sailors of all levels of physical mobility. Best suited to lakes, the Challenger is a very safe, seaworthy boat for sailors of all ages and experience levels. Add to this the ease of owning, transporting and maintaining the Challenger trimaran and what you get is a simple, fun sailboat perfect both for beginners and those seeking a cheap thrill alike.

Models:   Challenger

At a glance comparison:

Did we miss one? Let us know. Tell us what you sail and what you like about each boat in the comments below.

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The complete list of trimarans.

There is no single trimaran that is best for everyone. Where some prefer luxury cruisers for long trips with family and friends, others might opt for a high performance racing tri for thrilling rides at breakneck speeds. With the recent spike in trimaran popularity, these days there is a perfect tri for every sailor. So to help prospective trimaran owners decide which boat is just right for them, we here at WindRider have put together a comprehensive list of the best trimarans on the market today! Read through for simple at-a-glance trimaran comparisons of boats both big and small, exhilarating and relaxing, and for all price points.

Jump to a specific sailing trimaran: Neel Weta Corsair WindRider Dragonfly Catri Astus Hobie Sea Pearl Farrier Sea Cart Multi 23 Triak SeaRail Warren Lightcraft Diam Radikal Challenger

Known for their award-winning luxury trimarans,   NEEL   is based in La Rochelle, the capital city of sailing in France. NEEL trimarans are built for fast cruising with an average cruising speed of about 10 knots, and are even configured to facilitate that sustained speed under motor propulsion. The NEEL 45 was notably named Cruising World’s Most Innovative Vessel in 2013, and by all accounts is an easy-to-sail, high performance boat that is just plain fun.

At a glance:

Models: NEEL 45, 65

Length: 45’ – 65’

Cost:   $$$$$

Use: Luxury cruiser

A fan favorite,   Weta trimarans   are fast, stable, and remarkably easy to rig. This single-sailor tri has a capacity of up to three, and the ease with which it can be transported and stored makes this a great, versatile boat for beginners. The Weta was named Sailing World’s 2010 Boat of the Year, and one ride is enough to know why: simply put, the Weta is an absolute ton of fun to sail regardless of skill level.

Models: Weta

Length: 14’5”

Cost:   $$ $$$

The high-end   Corsair trimaran   definitely holds its own in the categories of versatility, performance, and convenience. Boasting a rigging time of 30 minutes from trailer to sailor ,   the Corsair 42 – whose convenient folding amas makes trailering possible – is a simple option even for single sailors, though cabin space is suitable for two adults. These boats are wicked fast, capable of reaching speeds of 20+ knots, and were made for skilled sailors seeking solid construction and high performance vessels, not for beginners.

Models: Pulse 600, Sprint 750 MKII, Dash 750 MKII, Corsair 28, Cruze 970, Corsair 37, Corsair 42

Length: 19’8” – 37’

Cost:   $$$$ $

Use: Sports cruisers

Built for the sailor who wants to maximize the joys of sailing while minimizing any hassle, WindRider trimarans are notoriously fast, very safe, and a blast to sail from start to finish. With several models that can hold between 1 and 6 riders, including adaptive designs to allow participation from sailors of all levels of mobility, there’s something to suit every sailor’s needs. The WindRider 17, an exhilarating ride perfect for families or camper sailors, has been known to reach speeds of up to 20mph. This easy day sailor goes from trailer to sailing in under 30 minutes and is sure to fit in perfectly with whatever adventures you have planned.

Models: WR 16, 17, Tango, Rave V

Length: 10’11” – 18’3”

Cost:   $ $$$$

Use: Day sailor

The Danish-built   Dragonfly   trimarans come in a variety of models ranging from 25’ – 35’, all known for their spry performance, comfortable ride, and ease of use. Every model comes equipped with the unique “SwingWing” feature, a motorized system that can unfold the amas even while the boat is already underway – making it accessible to marinas and slips, and even makes trailering possible. Perfect for those who don’t want to sacrifice their comfort for high performance, the Dragonfly can breeze along at 13 knots while remaining one of the quietest compact cruisers out there.

Models: Dragonfly 25, 28, 32, 35, 1200

Length: 25’ – 39’

Designed for both safe cruising as well as for high speed racing,   Catri trimarans   will make your day. Especially noteworthy is the Catri 25, a stable yet wildly fast foiling trimaran with accommodations for up to 6 people. With profiles optimized for speeds of 25+ knots when foiling, this is no beginner’s sailboat. The special attention paid to stability in the foil design allows the Catri to be a single sailor vessel, even at foiling speed, with no special physical abilities. Whether you’re taking a small crew for longer rides at shuddering speeds or bringing the whole family along for a shorter, but still thrilling sail, the Catri is truly one of a kind.

Models: Catri 25

Length: 25’

Use: Cruiser/racer

A popular brand of trimaran in Europe,   Astus   has recently made its way to the US market to the delight of sailors on this side of the pond. Designed to offer maximum pleasure with minimum hassle, all models of Astus trimarans are fast to set up, quick on the water, inherently stable, and always a joy to sail. Their outriggers are mounted on telescopic tubes for easy stowage and towing, and can even be extended and retracted on the water for access to narrow passageways and monohull slips in marinas. With models in all sizes and price points, Astus trimarans are a great option for any sailor.

Models: Astus 16.5, 18.2, 20.2, 22, 24

Cabin: Some models

Length: 16’ – 24’

Use: Sport cruisers

HOBIE ADVENTURE ISLAND

Great for beginners and adventurers alike, the   Hobie Mirage Adventure Island   series is nothing if not just plain fun. With the option to use as a kayak or as a very basic trimaran, the Hobie is transportable, versatile, unintimidating, lightweight, and wonderfully affordable. The pedal system known as “Mirage Drive” allows a person to pedal the kayak using their legs for an extra kick of movement in slow winds. Amas tuck close to the main hull for docking or car-topping, adding serious ease and convenience to the exhilarating experience of the Hobie.

Models: Hobie Mirage Adventure Island, Mirage Tandem Island

Length: 16’7” – 18’6”

Use: Convertible kayak/trimarans

Best known for its use in camp cruising excursions, the   Sea Pearl   offers a roomy main hull and particular ability to sail in very shallow waters, making beaching and launching a breeze. The lightweight Sea Pearl trimaran is easy to tow, and the larger-than-expected cabin opens this vessel up for overnight adventures with plenty of storage space. The simple design makes the Sea Pearl notoriously low maintenance, and the ease it takes to rig and sail it add to the overall delight of owning this boat.

Models: Sea Pearl

Length: 21’

Use: Camper cruiser

Quick, lightweight, roomy, and trailerable,   Farrier trimarans   are made for versatility to fit every sailor’s needs. Different Farrier models are available in plan or kit boat form for those who appreciate building their boat themselves, but of course, also as the full production sail-away boat for the rest of us. Single-handed rigging and launching takes under 10 minutes from start to finish, minimizing hassle and getting you on the water fast. All non-racing Farrier designs use a minimum wind capsize speed of 30 knots or more to ensure safety for all those aboard. Add the roomy cabin and high speed capabilities to the equation and you’ve got a boat that is great fun for everyone.

Models:   F-22, 24, 25, 82, 27, 28, 31, 9A, 9AX, 9R, 32, 33, 33R, 33ST, 36, 39, 41, 44R

Length: 23’ – 39’4”

Cost:   $$$ $$

Use: Sport cruisers/racers

One of the biggest names in the game,   SeaCart   is internationally noted for its high performance trimarans that far exceed expectations for a production boat of its size. The SeaCart trimaran performs as brilliantly off the water as it does on with its super-light and efficient harbor folding system, making light work of trailering. Notoriously easy to manage and maintain, the SeaCart 26 One Design is the ultimate day racing trimaran, designed for both course and inshore/coastal distance racing. Absolutely worth the international buzz it has garnered, the SeaCart is a thrill from beginning to end.

Models:   SeaCart 26

Length: 26’

A high performance racer class, the   Multi 23   is a lightweight, powerful trimaran known for its wicked speed of up to 25 knots. Multi trimarans of both available configurations were designed to give beach cat thrills and speed without any of the stability or seaworthy concerns. Open ocean sailing is no issue for the Multi’s big bows, which do their job to keep her stable. Built for sailors with a need for speed, the Multi makes a perfect weekend boat for racers, especially those with a taste for boat camping.

Models:   Multi 23

Length: 23’

Another dual outrigger sailing kayak/canoe design,   the Triak trimaran   was designed to be effortless and fun, especially for beginners. Paddle the kayak with sails furled, use the foot pedals for an extra kick of momentum, or sail with just the mainsail – the only boat in its class to feature an asymmetrical spinnaker – for exhilarating speeds and a blast on the water. Car-top the Triak anywhere for a quick sail or plan for a week long expedition, but always count on having a great time on this easy little boat.

Models:   Triak

Length: 18’

Use: Convertible kayak/trimaran

SeaRail trimarans   are known for being affordable, light weight, trailerable trimarans that offer the perfect combination of exciting and relaxing experiences to a wide range of sailors. Whether it’s day sailing with your family, resort or camper sailing, SeaRail trimarans are ideal leisure vessels. Leave the hassle to the other boats – the SeaRail takes you from trailer to sailor in 15 minutes. But don’t let its reputation as a leisure tri fool you: if speed is what you want, rest assured that the SeaRail can deliver that as well.

Models:   SeaRail 19

WARREN LIGHTCRAFT

Warren Lightcraft trimarans , another example of a convertible kayak-to-sailboat option, are known for their aesthetically pleasing designs that are also, as the name implies, very light for simple transportation and ease of use. Convert the kayak into a fast, high performance sailboat in just minutes, fly around on the waves all day long, then simply car-top the 68lb Warren for a maximum enjoyment, low-hassle day on the water. Perfect for sailors and paddlers of all skill levels, the Warren Lightcraft is the best of both worlds and an absolute joy to sail.

Models:   Warren Lightcraft

Length: 15’6”

Built strictly with racing in mind,   the Diam 24   is a light, powerful one-design class trimaran and a notoriously exceptional performer. Boasting blistering speeds of up to 30 knots, Diam trimarans are not intended for beginners. For racers who crave the very best in terms of intense speeds, smooth handling and impeccable performance, the Diam is the red-hot one-design racing tri for you.

Models:   Diam 24

Length: 24’

For the sailor who prefers the finer things in life, the   Radikal 26   delivers. Perfect for bringing the whole family out for a day on the water, this high performance, trailerable sailing trimaran strikes the most luxurious balance between quicksilver speeds and a smooth, comfortable ride. The Radikal 26 trimaran is as convenient to transport and set up as it is pleasant to sail, with a folding system that minimizes rigging hassle and also makes this a trailerable tri. Built for a fast and comfortable sail rather than a hold-onto-your-seats thrill, one-the-water safety and overall pleasure makes the Radikal 26 what it is.

Models:   Radikal 26

Use: Sport cruiser

A solidly-built, single-handed trimaran, the Challenger also doubles as an adaptive design – meaning it is made to accommodate sailors of all levels of physical mobility. Best suited to lakes, the Challenger is a very safe, seaworthy boat for sailors of all ages and experience levels. Add to this the ease of owning, transporting and maintaining the Challenger trimaran and what you get is a simple, fun sailboat perfect both for beginners and those seeking a cheap thrill alike.

Models:   Challenger

At a glance comparison:

Did we miss one? Let us know. Tell us what you sail and what you like about each boat in the comments below.

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• Trimarans - Exploring the Unique Three-Hulled Sailboat

Have you ever heard of a trimaran? It's a unique type of sailboat with three hulls, and it's quickly becoming one of the most popular sailing vessels out there. Trimarans offer a special kind of sailing experience, combining the stability of a catamaran with the speed and agility of a monohull sailboat. In this article, we'll explore the history, design, and uses of trimarans, and discover why they're quickly becoming the go-to choice for sailing enthusiasts. If you're interested in purchasing a trimaran, you may be wondering about the Florida boat shipping cost .

The history of Trimaran sailboats dates back to the early 19th century when they were first developed by the British Royal Navy. Trimarans are unique in that they have three hulls instead of the traditional two-hulled design of most sailboats. They offer a number of advantages over other boat types, including increased stability in rough waters, faster speeds than monohulls, and a greater range of motion for the captain. However, trimarans come with a number of drawbacks, such as their higher cost and increased vulnerability to damage. One of the most famous trimarans is the US-built 'Defiance', which was designed by naval architect Reuel Parker and first launched in 1887. Defiance was one of the earliest trimarans to be used for recreational sailing, as well as for competitive racing.

Types of Trimarans

Trimaran construction, sails and rigging, safety considerations, the disadvantages of trimarans.

This can make them prohibitively expensive for recreational sailors who may not have the budget to buy or maintain a trimaran. Trimarans are also more vulnerable to damage due to their multiple hulls. If one of the hulls is damaged, the entire boat can become unstable and dangerous. This makes them more risky to sail in rough conditions than monohulls. Trimarans are also more complex than monohulls in terms of rigging and sailing. They require more experience and skill to operate, making them better suited for experienced sailors.

The Advantages of Trimarans

Trimarans also offer increased speed compared to monohulls, due to their decreased drag in the water. This makes them particularly attractive for competitive racing, as they can outpace monohulls in most conditions. Trimarans are also much more maneuverable than other boats, allowing them to quickly turn and change direction. In addition, trimarans offer increased space aboard compared to monohulls.

Cruising Trimarans

Construction and rigging.

The three hulls on a trimaran are typically connected by a central frame, and are made of lightweight yet durable materials such as fiberglass or aluminum. This allows for a lighter and more maneuverable sailing experience. When it comes to rigging and sails, trimarans use the same basic principles as other sailboats. The sails used on trimarans are mainly spinnakers, jibs, mainsails, gennakers, and staysails.

In addition, a trimaran needs additional rigging and gear such as halyards, sheets, and running rigging. Trimarans can also be equipped with additional equipment such as anchors, fenders, and radios. This can help improve safety and performance while sailing. In conclusion, trimarans offer a unique sailing experience due to their three-hull design.

They require the same basic rigging and sails as other sailboats, but also have additional needs for extra equipment. With the right rigging and gear, trimarans can be used for recreational sailing as well as competitive racing events. Trimarans are a unique and exciting type of sailboat that offers some distinct advantages over monohulls. They have three hulls instead of two, and provide greater stability and agility than other boat types.

Trimarans are used for both recreational sailing and competitive events, and require more crew members than monohulls. The construction and rigging of trimarans is also more complex than other boat types, and safety considerations should always be kept in mind. Therefore, if you're looking for a unique sailing experience, a trimaran could be the perfect choice. In conclusion, trimarans offer an exciting and unique sailing experience, with many advantages over traditional monohulls. They are suitable for both recreational sailing and competitive events, but require additional crew members and safety considerations.

If you're looking for a unique sailing experience, trimarans could be the perfect choice.

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Wow, that was fast! Why trimarans are SO much fun to sail – and how to do it

• Theo Stocker
• February 13, 2024

For their size, trimarans can punch well above their weight in speed, cruising potential and fun. Monohull sailor Theo Stocker gets to grips with how to handle one

Humans tend to gravitate into tribes of like-minded enthusiasts, enjoying the encouragement, support and sense of identity, while often looking askance at others; sailors at motorboaters, cruising sailors at racers, monohull sailors at raft, I mean, multihull sailors, and everyone looks askance at jet-skiers.

Large cruising catamarans (40ft now counts as a small one) are a world apart from monohull sailing, but there’s a sub-tribe of sailors dedicated to life on three hulls and builders such as Dragonfly, Corsair, Farrier, and Astus give them plenty of choice.

I’ve been sailing a 22ft (7m) Astus 22.5 this season, with just enough space for a family of four and a minimum of creature comforts. Thanks to her VPLP-designed hulls and 650kg all-up weight, we can sail upwind at 7-plus knots and downwind at over 10 knots with ease, all on a roughly even keel, while the kids play Duplo down below. It can also be beached and is towable behind a car.

Having, it seems, caught the trimaran bug, I wanted to get better at sailing and handling the boat, but my monohull sailing experience and habits were proving something of a hindrance, so we sought advice from some existing trimaran owners, and well as the UK’s top multihull sailors.

Much of the advice will apply to all multihulls , whether two or three-hulled, while other parts are just for small trimarans. I also found that brushing-up some of my rusty dinghy sailing skills helped get my head around what we were trying to do.

To try out our expert tips we went out sailing to see what difference they made. On the day, we got a solid Force 4-5 southwesterly, averaging 16 knots, but fluctuating between 12 and 20 knots true.

Blasting about on a sporty trimaran is a whole world of fun, but is much calmer than it looks

Trimaran sail trim

One of the biggest differences between a cruising monohull and a multihull is how the mainsail is trimmed. Leech tension on a yacht is often largely controlled by the kicker and the backstay, while the mainsheet sheets the mainsail in and out, predominantly controlling the angle of the boom to the centreline, and there may be a short traveller.

On a mulithull, however, there’s more than enough space for a good, wide traveller. Those who sail on performance monohulls will also be used to this. The sail shape is mainly controlled by the mainsheet, and the traveller then moves the boom towards or away from the centreline.

This is exaggerated on a multihull which has wide shrouds, swept well aft with no backstay, making space for a powerful square-top mainsail with full-length battens. There’s no backstay to bend the mast and flatten what is anyway a pretty rigid mainsail.

The mainsheet purchase creates enough power to control the leech of the square-top mainsail

Depowering a trimaran

Sailing on a monohull, heel and weatherhelm and eventually a broach give loads of warning that you’re pushing too hard. With straight hulls and little heel, those warning signs don’t really apply to multihulls.

In reality, however, there are a host of warning signals that it’s time to back-off; they’re just a bit different. Even then, there’s still a large safety margin before you get close to danger.

By way of reassurance, with the boat powered up on a beat, Hein, from Boats on Wheels, the boat’s owner, stood on the leeward hull and lent on the shrouds. Even as his feet got wet and the wind gusted at the top of Force 4, the boat didn’t bat an eyelid, thanks to the huge buoyancy of the floats.

Even with a person on the leeward float the boat was extremely stable

On the water – sail trim

My first inclination was to point the boat as high upwind as possible, pin the sails in and go for height. Doing that resulted in a not-terrible boat speed of 5-6 knots and a good pointing angle.

Free off by a handful of degrees however, and ease the sails just a smidge, and the speed leapt up to 8-9 knots – over 50% more; a huge increase. So, don’t pinch. If you had a decent chartplotter on board, you could find your optimum speed to angle using velocity made good (VMG).

I was also tempted to pinch in the gusts, but it’s better to hold your course and let the speed increase until the main needs easing.

On the wind, it’s time to get the boat fully powered up

If that’s the case, drop the main down the traveller an inch or two or ease some twist into the mainsail and it makes all the difference in the world, but not so far that the top battens fall away and invert – that really isn’t fast. Push too hard and the boat will slow down, largely from the drag of submerging the leeward float and crossbeams. If you’re still overpowered and the main is luffing, it’s time to reef. Downwind is different, but we’ll get onto that later.

After we put a reef in the main, our boat speeds upwind remained largely the same, and the boat was much happier. I came away feeling reassured that even a little trimaran like this would be pretty difficult to capsize, and there were always plenty of warning signs telling me to take my foot off the pedal a little.

Article continues below…

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Tacking and gybing a trimaran

Everyone knows that multihulls don’t tack as well as monohulls. Straight hulls and wide beam don’t lend themselves to turning, especially when coupled with the displacement and fixed keels of big cats. Trimarans are a little easier, with a single central daggerboard to act as a pivot, and one or other of the floats will generally be clear of the water. On the downside, light displacement means that there isn’t much momentum to keep you going through the turn and plenty of windage to stop you.

On a trimaran the central daggerboard helps the boat to turn by providing a central pivot point that catamarans lack

Speed is your friend. Build speed up before the tack to give you as much momentum as possible. The helm needs to steer positively into and through the turn, and if necessary, keep the jib backed on the new windward side to help the bow through the wind. Don’t worry about scrubbing speed off, but you don’t want to get stuck in irons.

When it comes to gybing, speed is again key. The turning bit isn’t going to be an issue as you’ll be scooting along, but the faster you’re going, the less load there will be on the sails. The more you slow down, the more the true wind will pile up.

Trimaran sailing skills

Tacks took a bit of practice. It felt plain wrong to jab the tiller across the boat, slamming a big break on in the water but I ended up putting us through the tacks far too slowly, losing a lot of speed. A more aggressive approach worked better. On the Astus, the traveller was between me and the tiller, so the tiller extension needed to be swung around the stern behind the mainsheet onto the new side.

Similarly, old habits of controlling a gybe needed to be modified. With the asymmetric set, we were planing at well over 10 knots, and the ideal is to stay on the plane. Heading dead downwind and centring the main lead to a more violent manoeuvre than flying into the gybe as fast as possible and, as the boom was never that far out thanks to the apparent wind angle, it didn’t need much extra controlling.

Coming up onto the wind after the gybe helped the asymmetric around the front of the jib and to fill on the new side. Stay too deep and it’ll get blanketed by the main. Once we had built up some apparent wind, we could bear away again.

You’ll be on a course deep downwind before you know it, hitting speeds in the double digits

Downwind in a trimaran

Upwind cruising may be fun in a multihull, but bearing away and going with the wind is what it’s all about. Easily-driven hulls, a generous sailplan and light weight mean you can be up and planing, leaving displacement boats wallowing in your wake.

The big difference comes from apparent wind. If you’re in a boat that can do 15 knots downwind in 20 knots of true wind, the resulting wind angles can really mess with your head.

To get going then, says Brian Thompson, ‘Use those leech tell-tales again when sailing downwind and reaching to set the correct twist through the mainsheet, and use the traveller to set the correct angle of the whole sail to the wind.’

As the wind and your speed builds, bear away and trim the main accordingly.

In theory, you shouldn’t need to ease the traveller at all, but you may need to if you want to sail deep downwind. As the gust fades, you’ll find the boat slows down, so you can come back up towards the wind a little to pick up some more breeze, and then bear away as you accelerate again.

Bear away as the boat accelerates. Your course will be something of a slalom as you look to keep a consistent wind angle

This results in something of a ‘slalom’ course, and will also be accentuated if you’re sailing down waves, but that’s all quite normal for apparent wind sailing. Ultimately, you’re looking for a consistent apparent wind angle, even if the resulting wake isn’t straight.

It’s worth remembering that apparent wind reduces the felt effect of the wind, so you need a sailplan to suit the true, not apparent wind speed.

I found that the boat was more sensitive to having a balanced sailplan and trim downwind than upwind, largely because you’ve got almost double the canvas up, with the bowsprit as an extra lever. When weather helm built, I needed to ease the mainsheet to increase twist to depower so that I could bear away. I must admit, getting the boat balanced, sailing fast and light on the helm at 15 knots was something I came away feeling I needed more practice at.

Reviewing the images, I suspect the asymmetric was sheeted in too hard, with too much twist in the main.

Getting a float fully submerged is when it’s time to back off

On the water

Unfurling the gennaker worked best on a beam reach, giving plenty of airflow over the sail to help it fully unfurl. This was also roughly the fastest point of sail, ideal for getting up some speed for apparent wind sailing. We mostly had the sails set for a close reach, even when we were beyond 120º off the true wind on a broad reach.

It was possible to soak deeper downwind, but lose the apparent wind benefit downwind and our speed dropped off dramatically, prompting us to point a bit higher to find some more speed.

As the boat powered up, it paid to hold a slightly higher angle than I would have done in a monohull for the boat to properly take off and get up into double digit speeds – topping out at 15 knots. Lymington to Cowes would have taken us just half an hour at that speed. It’s easy to give yourself a heck of a beat back!

We were sailing on a pretty flat day, so didn’t have to contend with any waves to speak of. On the recent RTI this is what caused the capsizes of at least two multis, a sobering reminder that you need to sail much more conservatively in lumpier conditions.

The bows want to point downwind, so a stern-first approach works with rather than against the boat

Coming alongside

A 650kg boat with no draught and plenty of windage feels dreadfully skittish when manoeuvring in confined spaces. Straight hulls with no forgiving curves and fragile-looking sharp bows make berthing tricky. You’ve got a couple of advantages on your side, however. In the Astus, the floats are at pontoon height making stepping off easy.

Whether you have an engine in each hull of a cat, or one in the central hull of a tri, there’s also a lot more leverage to play with to turn the boat and drive her on or off the pontoon. A steerable outboard gives you even more options.

If the boat has a lifting keel or daggerboards, put them down if there’s enough depth to give you a pivot and to resist drifting. Think about getting corners onto the pontoon, rather than putting the boat alongside. On tris, you won’t be able to get to the bow to fend off as it’s too narrow. You can rig a fender up forwards on a line, and two fenders are enough on the flat sides.

Steering with the outboard towards the pontoon will drive the stern in more; steer away to drive the bow in more

Offshore wind

Coming onto the pontoon with wind blowing off, it worked well coming in stern first. If there’s a tide running, you’ll want to be heading into the tide, so find a spot down wind and down tide to start your approach so you come in at an angle.

On our first attempt we had a bit of tide under us to start with so we came in at a much steeper angle, almost 90º, although this worked out OK in the end.

The crew could then step ashore, taking a line from the stern quarter round a cleat.

Drive forwards against the line and the bow will obediently drive up towards the pontoon, bringing you flat alongside. Getting off was simple, releasing the bowline, and allowing the bow to swing out the before slipping the stern line.

Coming in astern and stopping upwind of the berth meant the bows blew towards the pontoon far to quickly

Onshore wind

Getting onto and off a pontoon with onshore wind proved rather trickier. On our first attempt we came in stern first. The issue was that once we were just upwind of our desired berth and stopped, we lost steerage and the bow immediately blew off with alarming speed towards the pontoon.

Going ahead would only increase the force of the impact, while going astern only increased the bow’s sideways drift. I managed to back out without smashing the bow, but only just, and ended up awkwardly stern to the wind with the bows pointing at the pontoon.

On our second attempt we came in bows first but having aimed at the berth, I had to motor the stern to leeward to stop the bow hitting, making for a rather forceful coming alongside.

On take three, I came in forwards and began ferry gliding towards the berth early, keeping the bows to windward of the stern. Being able to steer with the outboard meant I could go ahead to keep the bow up, and go astern with the engine pulling the stern down toward the pontoon. In this way, it was possible to come in pretty well controlled and parallel to the berth.

To get out, motoring astern against a bow line pulled the entire boat clear before slipping the line

Leaving was a different proposition all together, as I didn’t want to drag the bow along the pontoon, or to drive hard onto it to spring off. Instead, we rigged a slip-line from the forward cross beam. Going astern against this, and then turning the engine towards the wind, I could pull the stern, and the rest of the boat, out and away from the pontoon.

Keeping power on astern, once we’d reached a decent angle, we slipped the line and went astern, finding steerage way almost at once, with the bow following obediently in our wake with more control than I had anticipated.

Whether the wind is blowing onto, or off the pontoon, you want the engine to be driving or pulling the boat off the pontoon with a line on the corner you are going away from. That way you avoid point-loading fine ends where it’s hard to fender.

You’ll want a bridle to reduce swinging, but keep the pick up lines on the bow as backup

Anchoring and mooring a trimaran

While mooring a catamaran is complicated by the lack of a central bow, things should be simpler on a trimaran, and they are, mostly. Picking up a mooring buoy from the main hull bow with a low freeboard and dropping the pick-up line onto a cleat is easier even than a monohull.

The bow may be narrow, but for any lines that pass through a ring on the buoy, you still need to take it back to the same cleat to avoid chafe. That should be it, but windage from the two extra bows and the lack of keel mean the boat can dance merrily around the mooring buoy in a breeze.

Rig the bridle so the buoy sits to one side to stabilise the boat

In practice, we found that a trimaran benefits from a mooring bridle in the same way that a catamaran does. It can’t be rigged from the floats’ bows, as there are no mooring cleats, so a line passed around the outboard ends of the forward beams gave a pretty good angle, again with long lines passed through the mooring and back to the same side. The main pick-up lines stay as a safety backup.

The other trick is to rig the bridle asymmetrically so that the buoy sits to one side or the other, just enough to not be dead head to wind, making it much more stable in the wind.

On the plus side, the lack of draught or keel means that you’ll nearly always be lying head to wind, so the cockpit remains nice and sheltered whatever the tide’s doing.

We ran out of time on the day to try anchoring, but rigging a bridle, effectively a long snubber to a point on the anchor chain in a similar way wouldn’t be tricky.

If you needed not to swing, or to behave more like deeper boats nearby, hanging a bucket over the stern can help, or there’s always anchoring with a kedge, either out ahead in a V, or in line astern.

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The Evolution of Trimarans: From Past to Present

• July 8, 2024

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Sleek, swift, and stable – trimarans have captured the imagination of sailors and naval architects for centuries. These three-hulled marvels represent a perfect blend of ancient wisdom and cutting-edge technology. But how did these unique vessels evolve from humble beginnings to become the epitome of modern maritime engineering? Let’s embark on a fascinating journey through time and tide to uncover the remarkable story of trimarans.

From their Polynesian origins to their current status as high-performance racing machines and luxurious cruisers, trimarans have undergone a remarkable transformation. This article charts the course of trimaran evolution, highlighting key milestones, technological breakthroughs, and the visionaries who shaped their development.

Ancient Origins: Polynesian Roots of Trimarans

The story of trimarans begins in the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, where ancient Polynesians mastered the art of oceanic navigation. These intrepid seafarers developed outrigger canoes – the predecessors of modern trimarans – to conquer vast distances and settle remote islands.

Polynesians ingeniously crafted their vessels using available materials like breadfruit wood and coconut fiber. The addition of outriggers to their canoes dramatically improved stability, allowing them to carry heavier loads and navigate rough seas with greater confidence. This simple yet effective design laid the foundation for the trimaran concept.

As centuries passed, the outrigger canoe design spread across the Pacific, evolving to suit local conditions and needs. From the swift Hawaiian wa’a kaulua to the massive Tongan kalia, these vessels showcased the versatility and effectiveness of the multi-hull concept.

The Trimaran Advantage: Stability, Speed, and Efficiency

What makes trimarans so special? The answer lies in their unique design principles that offer a trifecta of benefits: stability, speed, and efficiency.

Stability: The trimaran’s three-hull configuration provides exceptional stability, both at rest and underway. The wide stance created by the outer hulls (called “amas”) resists capsizing, making trimarans particularly safe in rough conditions. This stability also translates to a more comfortable ride, reducing seasickness and fatigue for passengers and crew.

Speed: Trimarans slice through the water with minimal resistance, thanks to their narrow hulls and reduced wetted surface area. This hydrodynamic efficiency allows them to achieve impressive speeds, often outpacing monohulls of similar size. The added stability from the amas also enables trimarans to carry more sail area, further boosting their speed potential.

Efficiency: The combination of low drag and high stability makes trimarans incredibly efficient. They require less power to maintain speed, translating to lower fuel consumption for motor-driven trimarans and better performance under sail. This efficiency extends to their use of space, with wide decks and interconnected hulls offering ample room for accommodation and storage.

These fundamental advantages have driven the continued development and refinement of trimaran designs across various applications, from leisure craft to high-performance racing yachts.

20th Century Renaissance: Trimarans Re-emerge

While the concept of multi-hulled vessels had existed for millennia, the modern trimaran as we know it today began to take shape in the mid-20th century. This renaissance was driven by pioneering designers and builders who recognized the potential of the trimaran configuration for both recreational and competitive sailing.

One of the key figures in this revival was Arthur Piver, an American designer who created some of the first modern trimaran designs in the 1950s and 1960s. Piver’s designs, such as the Nugget and the Victress, sparked interest in trimarans among amateur builders and helped popularize the concept in the Western world.

Another influential figure was Dick Newick, whose innovative designs pushed the boundaries of trimaran performance. Newick’s creations, like the groundbreaking “Cheers” and the iconic “Third Turtle,” demonstrated the speed and seaworthiness of well-designed trimarans, capturing the attention of racers and cruisers alike.

As interest grew, so did the number of designers and builders experimenting with trimaran configurations. The 1960s and 1970s saw a proliferation of new designs, ranging from compact day-sailors to ocean-going cruisers. This period of experimentation laid the groundwork for the sophisticated trimarans we see today.

High-Tech Materials and Innovative Design

The development of better materials and more efficient production methods have been crucial to the progress of trimarans. As new technologies emerged, designers and builders seized the opportunity to create lighter, stronger, and more efficient vessels.

Fiberglass Revolution: The introduction of fiberglass in boatbuilding during the 1960s and 1970s marked a significant turning point. This versatile material allowed for the creation of complex hull shapes with improved durability and reduced maintenance. Fiberglass construction also made trimarans more accessible to a wider audience, as it simplified the building process and reduced costs.

Composite Marvels: The advent of advanced composites, such as carbon fiber and Kevlar, took trimaran performance to new heights. These materials offer an unparalleled strength-to-weight ratio, allowing designers to create incredibly light yet robust structures. Modern racing trimarans, constructed almost entirely from carbon fiber, can achieve breathtaking speeds while withstanding the immense forces generated by wind and waves.

Computer-Aided Design: The digital revolution brought powerful tools to naval architects and designers. Highly optimized hull forms and appendages can be created and tested using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and computer-aided design (CAD) software. From coastal cruising to transoceanic racing, these techniques have been essential in refining trimaran designs for specialized objectives.

Foiling Technology: One of the most exciting recent developments in trimaran design is the integration of hydrofoils. By lifting the hulls out of the water at high speeds, foiling trimarans can achieve unprecedented velocities with reduced drag. This technology, pioneered in smaller classes like the DNA F4 foiling catamaran, has now been applied to larger ocean-racing trimarans, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on water.

Competitive Edge: Trimarans in Modern Racing

The inherent speed and stability of trimarans have made them a force to be reckoned with in the world of competitive sailing. From offshore races to around-the-world record attempts, trimarans have consistently demonstrated their prowess on the water.

Ocean Racing: Trimarans have dominated many prestigious offshore races, such as the Route du Rhum and the Transat Jacques Vabre. The ORMA 60 class, which featured high-performance 60-foot trimarans, showcased the potential of these vessels in grueling ocean competitions. More recently, the Ultim class, comprising massive 100-foot foiling trimarans, has pushed the boundaries of offshore racing technology and human endurance.

Record-Breaking: Trimarans hold numerous sailing speed records, including the outright record for circumnavigation. A tribute to the remarkable speed and dependability of contemporary trimarans, François Gabart sailed his 100-foot trimaran MACIF around the world in a mere 42 days, 16 hours, 40 minutes, and 35 seconds in 2017.

America’s Cup: The introduction of foiling catamarans in the 2013 America’s Cup opened the door for multi-hull designs in this prestigious event. While true trimarans haven’t yet featured in the Cup, the principles of multi-hull design and foiling technology developed for trimarans have greatly influenced the evolution of America’s Cup yachts.

Recreational Sailing: Beyond the world of high-stakes racing, trimarans have gained popularity among cruising and day-sailing enthusiasts. Brands like Corsair Marine and Dragonfly Trimarans offer a range of folding trimarans that combine the performance advantages of a multi-hull with the convenience of trailerable boats. These versatile craft appeal to sailors who value speed, stability, and the ability to explore shallow waters.

Beyond Leisure: Trimarans in Industry and Transport

The advantages of trimaran design extend far beyond the realm of leisure and competitive sailing. Innovative companies and forward-thinking naval architects have adapted trimaran principles to a variety of commercial and industrial applications.

Passenger Ferries: Trimaran configurations have proven highly effective for high-speed passenger ferries. Vessels like the Austal 102-meter trimaran ferry offer increased stability, fuel efficiency, and passenger comfort compared to traditional monohull designs. These advantages make trimaran ferries particularly well-suited for routes with challenging sea conditions.

Naval Vessels: Military organizations have also recognized the potential of trimarans for certain naval applications. The Independence-class littoral combat ship, used by the United States Navy, features a trimaran hull that provides a stable platform for various mission modules while maintaining high speed and maneuverability.

Offshore Industry: The oil and gas industry has begun exploring trimaran designs for offshore support vessels and floating production units. The increased deck space and stability offered by trimaran configurations can enhance safety and efficiency in challenging offshore environments.

Research Vessels: Scientific organizations have commissioned trimaran research vessels to take advantage of their stability and efficiency. These ships provide an excellent platform for deploying scientific equipment and conducting oceanographic studies in a wide range of conditions.

Eco-Friendly Sailing: Trimarans and Sustainability

As the maritime industry grapples with environmental concerns, trimarans are emerging as a promising solution for more sustainable boating and shipping. Their inherent efficiency and adaptability to alternative propulsion systems position trimarans at the forefront of eco-friendly marine technology.

Reduced Fuel Consumption: The low drag and high stability of trimarans translate to significantly reduced fuel consumption compared to equivalent monohull vessels. This efficiency not only lowers operating costs but also reduces carbon emissions, making trimarans an attractive option for environmentally conscious operators.

Wind-Assisted Propulsion: The ample deck space and stability of trimarans make them ideal platforms for integrating wind-assisted propulsion technologies. Innovative systems like rigid sails, rotors, and kites can harness wind power to supplement or even replace traditional engines, further reducing environmental impact.

Electric and Hybrid Propulsion: Trimarans’ efficiency allows for effective implementation of electric and hybrid propulsion systems. Solar panels can be integrated into the large deck areas to generate clean energy, while the stability of the trimaran design accommodates battery banks without compromising performance.

Sustainable Materials: The marine industry is increasingly adopting sustainable materials in boat construction, and trimarans are no exception. From recycled composites to bio-based resins, innovative materials are being used to create more environmentally friendly trimarans without sacrificing performance or durability.

Cutting-Edge Innovations: The Future of Trimaran Design

As we look to the horizon, the future of trimaran design appears brighter than ever. Ongoing research and development promise to unlock even greater potential for these versatile vessels.

Advanced Foiling Systems: Building on the success of current foiling trimarans, future designs may incorporate more sophisticated and efficient foiling systems. Fully-automated, actively-controlled foils could enhance performance and safety across a wider range of conditions.

Artificial Intelligence and Autonomy: The integration of AI and autonomous systems could revolutionize trimaran operation. From optimizing performance in racing scenarios to enhancing safety in commercial applications, smart systems will play an increasingly important role in trimaran design.

Biomimicry: Nature-inspired design principles could lead to breakthroughs in hull shape, appendage design, and propulsion systems. By mimicking efficient natural structures and processes, future trimarans may achieve unprecedented levels of performance and efficiency.

Energy Harvesting: Beyond current solar and wind technologies, future trimarans might incorporate advanced energy harvesting systems. Piezoelectric materials that generate electricity from the motion of the boat, or hull coatings that capture energy from water flow, could contribute to more self-sufficient vessels.

Space Exploration: While it may seem far-fetched, the principles of trimaran design could even find applications in space exploration. The stability and efficiency of multi-hull configurations might prove valuable in designing spacecraft or habitats for other planets with liquid environments, such as the methane seas of Saturn’s moon Titan.

Trimarans: Sailing into Tomorrow

A tribute to human creativity and our everlasting bond with the ocean, trimarans have evolved over the ages. From the outrigger canoes of ancient Polynesia to the high-tech racing machines of today, trimarans have consistently pushed the boundaries of maritime technology.

As we’ve seen, the unique advantages of trimaran design – stability, speed, and efficiency – have driven their adoption across a wide range of applications. From leisurely cruising and high-stakes racing to commercial transport and scientific research, trimarans have proven their versatility and value.

Trimaran design appears to have limitless potential in the future. As smart technologies, propulsion systems, and materials continue to progress, trimarans will be an important part in making the marine sector more efficient and environmentally friendly.

Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast, a naval architect, or simply someone fascinated by maritime innovation, the world of trimarans offers a wealth of excitement and possibility. As these remarkable vessels continue to evolve, they invite us all to imagine new horizons in our relationship with the sea.

y and comfort. However, some trailerable trimaran designs might require more specific handling skills compared to monohulls.

Related FAQs

What are the advantages of trimarans.

Trimarans offer a trifecta of benefits: stability due to their three hulls, speed due to their narrow design, and efficiency due to low drag and ample space.

How are trimarans used today?

Trimarans are used for a variety of purposes, including recreational sailing (racing and cruising), passenger ferries, naval vessels, offshore industry support, scientific research, and even as eco-friendly vessels due to their efficiency.

What are some recent advancements in trimaran design?

The future of trimarans is bright! Advancements include foiling systems for increased speed, integration of artificial intelligence for optimization and safety, biomimicry for improved performance, and energy harvesting for more self-sufficient vessels.

What is the difference between a trimaran and a catamaran?

Both trimarans and catamarans are multi-hull vessels, but trimarans have three hulls while catamarans have two. This gives trimarans an advantage in stability, while catamarans may offer more interior space.

Are trimarans a good choice for beginners?

Trimarans, while offering speed, stability, and space, are not generally recommended for beginners due to their complexity in rigging, handling, and maintenance, higher cost compared to other boat types, and less forgiving nature in challenging conditions. Beginners might find monohulls or catamarans easier to learn and handle.

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What is a Trimaran Boat? Its Terminology, History,

Updated: July 31, 2024     9 Minutes Read

Do you want to know about Trimaran? If yes, you are in the hundred percent right place. A trimaran, also known as a double-outrigger, is a type of multi-hulled boat that features a main hull and two smaller outrigger hulls or floats that are attached to the main hull with lateral beams. Most modern trimarans are used as sailing yachts for racing or recreation, and others are warships used by the navy and ferries. 

The hull design of the Trimaran comes from the double-outrigger hulls of the Austronesian culture of maritime southeast Asia, especially from Eastern Indonesia and the Philippines, where it was used in fishing boats . And the design of double-outriggers originated from single-outrigger boats and old catamarans. 

Terminology

The term “Trimaran” originated from the combination of tri and maran. The tri means three, and maran is basically derived from catamaran boat s. It’s believed that Trimaran was created by Victor Tchetchet, who is basically a Ukraine-based modern multi-hull designer. A trimaran is featured with a main hull and two smaller outrigger floats on either side, attached by crossbeams. In Polynesian terms, the main hull is generally considered “vaka, ” while each float is referred to as “ama,”  and the connectors that connect them together are usually known as “aka.”  However, trimarans are not considered traditional Polynesian boats; Polynesians generally use single-outrigger canoes and catamarans.

Ownership Costs for Trimarans

The ownership cost of Trimarans widely differs according to their model, brand, size, and quality of construction. On average, their ownership price starts at $100,000 and goes up to a million dollars. If you want to determine how much you can afford, use our boat loan calculator .

The first Trimaran, or double-outrigger boat, was designed by the Austronesians and is still most loved by the fishermen of maritime southeast Asia . This double outrigger was improved from the oldest single outrigger boats to resolve the problem of boats tipping over when turning into wind. However, double outriggers did not get populated among austersians in Polynesia and Micronesia, where people use catamarans and single outriggers.

The warships with double outriggers, such as Karakoa, Kora Kora, Lanong, and Borobudur, were broadly used in maritime southeast Asia for many years. These vessels were also called proas by Europeans during the colonial era. And proas is basically a broad term that includes native ships and single-outriggers. 

20th Century 

Recreational sailing with trimarans and catamarans gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s. Victor Tchetchet, who was basically a Ukrainian immigrant to the US, manufactured two Trimarans by using marine plywood. These trimarans were around 24 feet, or 7.3 meters, longer in length. Then, in the 1950s and 1960s, Arthur Piver designed new plywood kit trimarans, which were heavy and not suitable for seas compared to modern models, but still a few achieved the success of crossing oceans. Several of their additional models, including Chris White, Derek Kelsall, Ed Horstman, Richared Newik, John Marples, Norman Cross, Jim Brown, and Jay Kantola, were built using contemporary construction methods, which basically improved the performance and safety of Trimaran cruisers.

After that, many homebuilders and new boating companies started making trimaran boats. Most of their models were 19–36 feet, or 5.8–11 meters, longer in length and were widely used as “day-sailers’ ‘. They were also trailerable by boat trailers, and their examples include original Ferrier and Corsair folding trimarans like the F-27 Sport Cruiser and the original John Westell and Swing-wing folding trimaran.

Modern Trimarans were constructed in the west and were significantly distinguished from their counterparts. They use a Bermuda rig sail plan instead of unique sails like crab claw or Tanja. These trimarans are also larger and have bigger floats, which provides them with more buoyancy than outrigger canoes . However, these floats may create drag when they get too wet, and their level of immersion shows when to reef. In respect of performance, an objective comparison by Doran in 1972 proved that the traditional double-outrigger vinta of the Philippines and the single-outrigger WA of the Caroline Islands are still amazing at sailing against wind and speed compared to modern trimarans.

Competition And Records

There are many competitions, and world records exist for Trimaran vessels. Thomas Coville is also one of them, having set the world record for solo sailing all over the world for around 49 days and 3 hours. This world record was made by Sodebo Ultim Trimaran and completed on December 25, 2016.

Before Thomas’ world record, in February 2005, a record was held by a British sailor, Ellen MacArthur , in which she spent around 71 days circling the world. After that, on January 20, 2008, a Frenchman broke the Ellen MacAuthers record by spending just 57 days, 13 hours, 34 minutes, and 6 seconds in Trimaran by exploring the planet.

Additionally, between December 2016 and January 2017, Francis Joyon and his five crew members set a new record for the fastest maritime circumnavigation by fishing the journey in just 40 days, 23 hours, 30 minutes, and 30 seconds. Their standard speed was around 26.85 knots, or 30.71 MPH, and they covered almost 48,915 kilometers, or 26,412 nautical miles. 

In 2020, the same Trimaran completed the race from Hong Kong to London in an impressive 32 days. This time is about one-third of the first record, which was made in 2005. 

 Trimaran Ships

High-speed ferries.

High-speed ferries are managed by specific rules. These rules are applied to those ferries that are used for international journeys lasting less than four hours and cargo ferries that are used for almost eight hours from a safe harbor. Private berths or sleeping areas are not available in these vessels, but every passenger must be given a seat.

The demand for high-speed ferries increased after the 1970s. In the 2000s, there were only two Australian companies, “ Incat and Austal,” building large and high-speed ferries. Incat was busy making catamarans, which basically move forward by cutting water waves, and Austal was an expert in making high-speed trimarans.

In 2010, Austal manufactured a 120-meter ferry called Hull 270, which was sold to Condor Ferries in 2015. After that, Condor Ferries changed its name to HSC Condor Liberation for visits to the Channel Islands. The interest in Trimaran ferries increased in 2017 when Fred. Olsen Express bought two 118 Trimarans from their island routes that were called Bajamar Express and Bañaderous Express . In 2018, a Japanese company also purchased an 83-meter ferry. 

Naval ships

The first and modern use of Trimaran hull design in navy ships was with the RV Triton . RV Triton is basically a research vessel for the Royal Navy and was manufactured with a Trimaran hull to test the hull’s visibility. This vessel has been used by the Australian customs and border protection service since 2007. 

The Indonesian navy’s first stealth Trimaran, the 63M carbon fiber composite Trimaran fast missile boat, was discovered in 2012. This was manufactured by North Sea boats with modern stealth technology and a wave-piercing Trimaran hull, but its design was made by New Zealand naval architects, LOMOCEAN Marine . Unfortunately, this vessel was destroyed by an engine room fire shortly after its launch. 

After that, the 43-meter ocean Eagle Trimaran was built by the Nigel irens and is based on the ocean adventure concept, which provides coastal protection for Mozambique.

Folding Trimarans

Some of the boat manufacturers build fold-able trimarans, which means these trimarans have floats that can be flooded near the main hull. Their foldable feature basically makes them easily trailerable by boat trailers and allows them to easily fit in a typical monohull space in a marina. There are various mechanisms used to store a folding trimaran or amas outrigger, which include demountable fixed tubes that are assembled before launching, telescoping tubes, and a hinge and latch system that allows the amas or foldable trimaran to fold over the main hull to reduce width for trailering. In addition, some Trimarans have a vertical folding system, which basically lifts the floats upward and over the main hull. On the other hand, a few Trimarans feature horizontal articulation, which moves the floats forward or backward at the same level as the hull, or horizontal folding, which folds the floats towards the main hull. These modern techniques for folding trimarans basically make them easier to trailer and transport; that’s why many people use them as sailing trimarans.

Folding Trimaran Safety Features 

There are many features of folding trimarans that assure safer journeys than other boat types . Trimarans have special compartments for protection from sinking, easy-to-reach controls, a system of prevention from collisions, covered and safe cockpits, and fast-draining holes. However, a capsized Trimaran may be harder to flip back, and some may also get damaged. But the new Trimarans are specially designed to easily turn back when capsized. To stay safe, it’s better to reduce sail power in strong winds and use special features like netting and water-shedding decks to protect a capsized Trimaran. 

Benefits of Trimaran Boats

The Trimaran configuration is suitable for both navy ships and commercial ferries. An Australian boat manufacturer company, “ Austal ” conducted the study to increase the advantages of Trimaran ships, catamarans, and monohulls and find out the ideal positioning of outer hulls to minimize wave resistance and power consumption when operating at high speeds with heavy payloads of almost 1,000 tons. This change made Trimarans more efficient, reduced motion sickness, and improved roll and lateral force stability, especially in rough seas. These features of Trimarans made it the best choice for warships and passenger ferries. Some of the other advantages of trimarans are: 

• Trimarans with high-quality construction can move smoothly and quickly in seas, even with heavy loads.
• They are basically made to be stable and versatile, and they roll well in rough seas.
• They help to prevent motion sickness.
• They can be manufactured in larger models.
• Trimarans can carry low-density cargo or passengers and can go at around 40 knots of speed. 

Disadvantages of Trimarans

• Trimarans are mostly tough and pricey to build.
• They are usually challenging to dock because of their design and size. 
• They may also not be suitable for carrying heavy cargo and passengers. 
• Their interior space is mostly less than that of Catamarans. 

I'm Raunek Kantharia, a professional marine engineer. I'm also a marine writer who joined the Marine Insight website in 2010 as an expert marine writer. I managed the Marine Insight website. After that, I wrote many articles for magazines and websites. But now, I write for readboating.com. I share my insights and knowledge from my own experience.

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History of trimaran

A trimaran is a multihull vessel consisting of one main and two auxiliary hulls connected to the main hull by transverse beams. The first prototypes of trimaran (as well as catamarans) were "Proa" - small boats with two parallel hulls (16th century). These boats were used by the islanders in the Pacific Ocean.

The first trimarans were built by the Polynesians about 4 thousand years ago. Most of the terms associated with boats and their components originated from Polynesian names.

Multihull ships  (trimarans and catamarans) became popular in the 1960s and 1970s. Naturally, modern trimarans differ from the popular multihulls of those times both in design and speed, and in their "stuffing". 19 - 36 feet long trimarans have been designed and built in the last 30 years. Many of these trimaranes were collapsible for transport on trailers.

Soon, trimarans became a fairly common means of transporting people. In 2005, the 127-meter Benchijigua Express trimaran was delivered to Spain. It accommodated 1280 passengers and 340 cars! With a top speed of 40 knots, it was the longest aluminum ship in the world at that time!

Trimarans have many advantages over monohull boats: wider beam, shallow draft, good stability and the ability to travel long distances. In addition, due to the wider beam, the trimaran does not need a weighted keel, unlike monohulls. As a result, the trimaran offers more options than a single hull boat. He is able to walk in shallower waters and "confidently float" on the water in fairly strong winds and storms. However, the trimaran's wider beam makes it a little awkward when maneuvering, again in comparison to single-float boats.

Another advantage of a trimaran is that it is lighter and faster than a monohull of the same size. Some trimarans have a light lifting keel. Some trimarans can reach excellent speeds in storms and travel through waves. But such an experience can be dangerous for a multihull due to the wide beam. The bow of the boat, often covered with a springboard, acts like a giant paddle. In order to avoid unfortunate outcomes, experienced yachtsmen advise using a springboard with a wide "weave" and a suitable anchor.

The "father" of the modern trimaran is Viktor Chechet, a Ukrainian immigrant from Kiev and an avid adherent of three-hull boats. During World War I, Mr. Chechet was a fighter pilot. He lived in New York from the 1940s until his death. During his life in the United States, he built two Eggnog trimaranes 1 and 2. Both boats were 24 feet long.

Most trimaranes are virtually unsinkable. Even with two "flooded" hulls, the buoyancy of the remaining hull is sufficient to keep the entire vessel afloat. Due to their reliability, trimarans (for example, the Challenger class) have become very popular among sailors around the world.

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Trimaran Sailboats: Pros and Cons

Sep 22, 2021

less than a min

Trimarans are boats in the multihull category. So let us give you a simple overview. A monohull has just one hull, a catamaran is a boat with two hulls, while a trimaran as the name itself suggests, has three hulls ( one central hull and two side ones that are smaller ).

There are many reasons why people prefer trimarans to other boats. These vessels are very easy to maneuver and quite light compared to catamarans or monohulls. They are often considered as an advanced form of the catamaran. The reason being, trimarans are faster than the average catamaran and obviously faster than monohulls. 

In addition, trimarans are much more stable than the alternative. The three hulls provide extra balance and lower resistance because even if there are three hulls in a trimaran, they are smaller and narrower. Lower resistance also leads to lower fuel consumption. 

Trimarans are very comfortable to sail in as the main hull is stabilized by the two outer hulls . 

Also, if you enjoy spending more time outdoors rather than indoors (which is usually the case for people who like sailing), trimarans offer more deck area that you can utilize. Whether for meditation, or social gatherings, this space offers plenty of breathtaking views and fresh air. 

Let’s not forget that trimarans have smaller gaps in between the hulls which makes them easier to build and therefore less expensive for the public to buy. 

This article however is titled trimarans pros and cons, so it is time to move into some less appealing characteristics of these vessels. 

While they offer plenty of deck space, the area below the main deck is limited, therefore you cannot have as many people on board as you would in a monohull or even a catamaran. 

In addition, trimarans are not appropriate for every type of activity. If you want to use it for recreational sailing then these boats will provide plenty of enjoyment. If your scope is to find something for the military or fishing, trimarans are not often the best choice. 

If you have your mind set on a specific trimaran, search it on TheBoatDB . Our extensive database includes features, pictures, specifications, and more useful information on a variety of boats. What is most interesting however is that you can also compare a couple of models side by side and decide which one is your favorite by getting all your facts straight. 

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Trimaran – The Ultimate Guide

Trimarans have been around for a while, yet racing aside they are not as popular as some other types of boats, especially in the multihull segment largely dominated by catamarans.

It is a shame as sailing a trimaran can be a very thrilling experience, even for the most relaxing yacht trips. Three words define it perfectly: Stability, Speed, and Lightness.

What is a trimaran?

A trimaran is a type of multihull boat composed of three individual hulls.

The center hull is the largest part of the boat, and the other two are floats designed to keep the boat stable by connecting to the center hull through an arm.

A brief history of trimarans

The name trimaran comes from the root word tri, meaning three, and maram, meaning wood or tree.

It is reported that the first trimarans were built by cultures in Asia and the Philippines. It is still the traditional fishing boat today in these parts of the world.

In the 16th century, the first trimaran (and catamaran) prototypes were “Proa” – tiny boats with two parallel hulls. The islanders used these boats in the Pacific Ocean.

Then, the amateur development of the modern sailing trimaran began in 1945 with the efforts of Victor Chetchet, a Ukrainian immigrant to the United States, who built two trimarans out of marine plywood that was later credited with coining the term “trimaran.”

Recreational trimarans grew in popularity in the 1960s and 1970s.

Until the ’90s, the trimaran was mostly chosen by sailors looking for performance.Modern trimarans, however, differ from the popular multihulls of that period in terms of design, speed, and “stuffing.”

In the last 30 years, many Trimarans ranging in length from 19 to 36 feet have been designed and built. Most of these trimarans could be folded and transported in trailers.

Trimarans quickly became a popular mode of transportation. Benchijigua Express, a 127-meter trimaran, was delivered to Spain in 2005. There were 1280 people and 340 automobiles on board! It was the world’s longest aluminum ship at the time, with a peak speed of 40 knots!

Likewise, things have changed in recent years. The cruising multihull market has developed enormously, with trimarans reaching very appreciable cruising levels, such as the new Tricat 30 or, for larger budgets, the Neel 45.

Why choose a trimaran?

Trimarans are faster than monohulls or cruising catamarans of the same size. They are also undoubtedly even more stable and secure than a catamaran.

They are masters of competition and records for a reason. For example, Thomas Coville held the world record of 49 days and 3 hours of the solo round the world race on the trimaran Sodebo Ultim.

Main trimaran characteristics

Thanks to its central hull and two smaller outrigger hulls, its three hulls give the trimaran very high stability. During the navigation, the trimaran goes upwind better than a catamaran, which is more prone to drifting phenomena. Therefore, Trimarans are faster.

The renowned NEEL 65, for example, is an atypical and innovative trimaran. Its capacity has been increased to provide roomy staterooms, and its center hull, which is precisely aligned with the mooring line, ensures stability and comfort when at anchor.

A trimaran is very stable

The wind propels a sailboat ahead and causes it to tilt in one direction. The keel under the hull prevents the boat from drifting and the ballast from capsizing in monohulls. As a result, a monohull will list in heavy winds.

Multihulls, on the other hand, benefit from their floats, which can withstand submersion. The catamaran will cruise quietly and will not heel like a monohull, but it will be unpleasant in rough waves.

In contrast, the trimaran’s three hulls provide excellent stability, similar to the little wheels added to a bicycle. The shape of the floats makes recreational trimarans especially stable and enjoyable to sail even in severe waves.

Sailing a trimaran is a thrilling experience

The trimarans offer a real sailing experience in the heart of the ocean racing world. They also allow you to meet with passionate people that will share their technical knowledge, experiences, and adventures with you.

If you choose a cruising trimaran for a luxurious vacation, your experience will be just as enriching. You will enjoy large living spaces, incomparable stability, relaxing safety, and quality crew service along with true sailing sensations.

The wind and the performance of a trimaran are second to none

When the wind pulls a boat upwind or the side, it is essential to offset the wind’s drive, and the hull and daggerboard provide this compensatory thrust.

As compared to a catamaran, a trimaran is more capable of sailing upwind. Thus, trimarans are quicker than catamarans, and this advantage is especially noticeable while sailing against the wind due to the weight centering in the middle hull, which reduces pitching.

Safety: the trimaran is the safest of all multihulls

Among all the multihulls, the trimaran is the safest because of its three-hull design, comprehensive anti-drift scheme, and weight centering.

There are for instance considerable variances in righting torques between a trimaran and a catamaran. Trimarans have a maximum righting moment of 27° of the heel while catamarans have a maximum righting moment of only 12°. This can be attained in strong winds, even in extremely small seas. The margin is therefore much higher on a trimaran.

Furthermore, even if the trimaran were to capsize, the construction would keep it from sinking, making it an extremely safe watercraft.

That being said, all multihulls, including catamarans are generally safe and easy to maneuver as long as you do it correctly.

Racing: a trimaran is a very popular choice

When it comes to racing, trimarans are more popular than catamarans, especially over the last 10 years.

Racing trimarans provide significant speed and safety benefits in extended offshore races. Even in severe seas, they can be pushed harder and are more forgiving than other racing catamarans. These are the primary reasons why trimarans have become so popular in recent multihull competitions.

Read also : Trimaran VS cataman: What are the differences ?

Who can benefit the most from using a trimaran?

There are many different types of experiences possible with a trimaran, so many people will find a trimaran to their liking.

The racing enthusiast ready to take on the world, the sailor with a thirst for adventure, or the cruising family, will find the trimaran right for their project.

The main trimarans drawbacks

The biggest drawback to trimarans is their living space. Indeed, most of the models on the market have a living space centered only at the level of the central hull, and the other spaces are rather limited. This is especially true for racing trimarans.

The only manufacturer who offers a solution to this problem is NEEL, with trimarans having large and comfortable living spaces.

Trimaran yacht charter: a unique and thrilling experience

If trimarans aren’t the most popular yachts on the charter market (yet!), it doesn’t mean you should refrain from renting one if you want to discover the sailing experience of a boat with three hulls;

Why should you charter a trimaran?

WI Yachts offers you 5 good reasons to charter a trimaran:

• New concept: Trimaran is the boat of the future, combining the best of the monohull and catamaran world.
• Unequaled volume: Trimaran’s layout is unique and original, and the cockpit is extra large.
• Serene navigation: a trimaran is known for its ease of handling, even with a reduced crew, unequaled stability, and guaranteed comfort.
• Complete autonomy: Trimarans are often equipped with watermakers and solar panels, they are self-sufficient in energy and freshwater.
• Environmentally friendly navigation: The sailboat is well known to be the least polluting means of travel; you can enjoy an environmentally friendly vacation.

The best destinations to charter a trimaran

BVI: Between the nearby highly cosmopolitan US Virgin Islands and the pristine British Virgin Islands , there are more than 60 islands. They feature several sheltered anchorages and are ideal sailing grounds for first-time charterers or families. Coral reefs and gorgeous beaches may be found all around the archipelago, offering a variety of water activities.

Martinique: When it comes to variety, Martinique excels. Travel north to enjoy the magnificence of the mountainous landscape. Or sail south to relax on the island’s best white sand beaches. Protected by a coral reef, this is a magical sailing ground for your charter yacht vacation.

Known as the island of flowers, Martinique is a French overseas territory. It is also one of the largest islands in the Lesser Antilles.

Saint Martin: Sint Maarten is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, while Saint Martin, the northern half of the island, is a French overseas collectivity. A popular stop for Caribbean cruise ships, the island is known for its lagoons, beaches, and colonial-style architecture.

Guadeloupe: Guadeloupe is a small butterfly-shaped island divided into two main islands: Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre. Separated by a narrow channel and connected by a bridge, the two islands are very distinct. This French overseas department lies in the middle of the Eastern Caribbean, between Dominica and Antigua. Charter a yacht in this part of the Lesser Antilles and discover a unique blend of European and tropical cultures.

Seychelles: Seychelles are all varied, and each offers a personal vision of Paradise. You can explore them all during your cruise thanks to the short sailing distances. The Seychelles yacht charter area extends to the islands of Mahé, Praslin, La Digue, and twenty smaller islands. Beautiful lagoons, white sandy beaches, and a wealth of marine life make Seychelles a unique cruising destination.

How much does it cost to charter a trimaran?

It is possible to charter a trimaran no matter what your budget is; a bareboat trimaran NEEL 45 can be chartered from €3 400 per week.

All our trimaran for charter here.

Buying a trimaran

Buying a boat, regardless of the type, depends on the intended navigation. For a cruising-oriented program, we often think of the monohull or the catamaran. The trimaran market seems more naive, yet cruising aboard a trimaran can be an excellent alternative.

However, trimarans are now able to provide all the necessary comfort for each cruising project.

On the other hand, when it comes to determining trimaran costs, most people make a mistake in their value evaluation. Rather than comparing lengths, the underlying value is found in the cost per knot.

Besides, a trimaran will outperform a monohull boat of the same length.

How much does it cost to buy a trimaran?

You can buy a trimaran for about $959,959. With 75 HP engine, fiberglass hull material, this trimaran will have 8.9 meters of the beam and 1.8 meters of draft. It houses 4 guest cabins and 2 crew cabins.

The best trimarans shipyards

Among the best trimaran builders we can find:

Neel: The trimarans of the shipyard are unique thanks to the experience and unequaled know-how. They combine unequaled living comfort with incredible sailing pleasure.

Rapido trimarans: Its creator has always been convinced that there was a missing segment in the sailing market: a cruising trimaran at sea, piloted by its owner, powerful enough to accelerate and avoid any potential problem, and able to be sailed safely by two people. This is how their concept was born: to build the fastest production cruising trimaran in the world.

Dragonfly: The shipyard offers 4 models, from 25 to 40 feet, with different touring, sport, performance, evolution, or ultimate, which allows everyone to find a trimaran to suit his needs.

Corsair marine: Created by a New Zealand architect in California, Corsair has built more than 1,200 folding trimarans between 1984 and 2008, making them the leader in this segment.

The best trimarans currently on the market

There are two types of trimarans that currently stand out on the market — those for coastal raids and those for cruising.

NEEL 43 , 45, 51 , 65 for liveaboard

LEEN 56, motor trimaran for liveaboard

The Tricat 25 for summer cruising or day trips

The Dragonfly 40, for simple offshore cruising

Read also : The 5 best sailing boats under 60 feet

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Catamaran vs. Trimaran: The Differences Explained

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Most boat lovers know the differences between a catamaran and a monohull. But when it comes to differentiating between a catamaran and a trimaran, things can get tricky because it’s not always clear how much difference the extra hull of a trimaran makes in performance, safety, comfort, and handling. If you’re trying to choose between the two, this is a post you’ll want to read before making a decision.

Besides the number of hulls catamarans(two) and trimarans(three) differ in speed, safety, accommodation, helming, and anchoring. Generally, catamarans are more manageable in a marina and provide better accommodation and comfort. Trimarans, on the other hand, are faster and more fun to helm.

In this post, we’ll cover these differences in greater detail to make it easier for you to choose between a catamaran and a trimaran. First, let’s quickly review each multihull type.

Table of Contents

The Lowdown on Catamarans

Informally dubbed a “cat,” a catamaran is a type of multi-hulled sailing craft with two equal-sized parallel hulls. Cats are typically geometry-stabilized, leveraging their wide beams for stability. That’s unlike monohull boats, which use ballasted keels for stability. Catamarans also have a smaller displacement, lower hull volume, and a much shallower draught ( draft ) than similarly sized monohulls.

The earliest forms of catamarans can be traced way back to the 17th century. They were primarily used for fishing by the Pavaras community in Tamil Nadu, who preferred them over other fishing vessels due to the extra balance and stability provided by the twin hulls. Later on, the British adopted the concept of twin-hulled boats and popularized it worldwide.

Modern catamarans are much more sophisticated than their ancestors. They’ve evolved in terms of the usage versatility, construction, and design, giving rise to two primary configurations:

• Small-Waterplane-Area Twin Hull (SWATH)
• Wave-piercing catamarans

The hulls in a catamaran with a SWATH configuration are typically submerged. That means they’re less affected by ocean waves , which is great for stability when sailing in rough waters. In the recent past, SWATH configurations have been used on research vessels and rescue ships. 

Their wave-piercing counterparts, on the other hand, have low-buoyancy bows fitted on the twin hulls. The bows allow the hulls to puncture ocean waves instead of riding over them, making catamarans with such a design faster on rough waters than SWATH cats. In the recent past, wave-piercing cat designs have been used on passenger ferries, military vessels, and yachts.

The Lowdown on Trimarans

Also known as a double-outrigger, a trimaran is a type of multihull boat with one main hull flanked by two smaller “floats” (technically known as outrigger hulls) connected to the larger hull by lateral beams. Such a design makes trimarans incredibly stable, meaning they’re hard to capsize even in the roughest of waters. 

The earliest forms of trimarans can be traced to the Austronesian people and are still the most common hull design you’ll find on traditional fishing boats in Maritime Southeast Asia. The majority of today’s double outriggers are yachts meant for racing and recreation, but some warships and ferries have this design.

The Differences Between Catamarans and Trimarans 

The most apparent physical distinction between a catamaran and a trimaran is that it has three hulls instead of two. 

But other than that, are there other differences between the two vessel types you need to know? Do those differences make one type better than the other?

To find out, let’s compare the two types of multihulls based on the following merits:

Comfort and Accommodation

A Cat’s geometry is ideal for comfort and accommodation. The two load-bearing hulls provide additional habitable space, and you can always create a sizable nacelle between them. Connected to this central living space is a large cockpit, and there are cabins on either end of the hulls. This arrangement is perfect when you’re looking to relax a bit as the party rages on in the saloon because it gives you a bit of privacy. 

And with flybridges virtually standard on modern catamarans, you have extra space for entertainment and lounging. The deck area is safe for kids, and the fact that catamarans don’t heel much means that you can do things like cooking at ease. Also worth mentioning is that cats can carry a decent load, meaning you can stock up on food and gear when going away for an extended period.

While trimarans do provide a decent degree of livability, they fall short of catamarans in two regards. First, they heel more than cats, making it difficult to do things like cooking on board. Second, they support much less load than catamarans. To put things into perspective, some 45 feet (14 meters). Cats can carry nearly three tons of payloads, whereas similarly sized trimarans can barely support half that load.

Overall, catamarans provide better, more comfortable accommodation than trimarans.

One of the main concerns when choosing any water vessel is how easy it’ll capsize in the event of a storm. If you’re looking to spend more than just a couple of hours on the water, you want to sail on something that won’t capsize/sink easily because sea conditions can sometimes fluctuate within a short period.

When it comes to safety, three hulls are better than two. Having one main hull and two overhangs on each side makes a trimaran more stable because of two reasons. First, the side overhangs widen the beam of the vessel, which minimizes the chances of the boat flipping over when hit by a large breaking wave from the side. Second, trimarans are typically designed with the weight centered on the main hull, further enhancing stability. 

Multihull stability is a complex topic and should be understood in detail if you want to stay safe at sea!

• Why do catamarans capsize?

On the rare occasion that a trimaran flips over, it’ll stay afloat. That means if the worst happens, a capsized trimaran will turn into a potential life-saving raft that’s easier to spot from a helicopter. That’s because almost all trimarans designed in the last decade or so come with closed-cell foam distributed throughout the various parts of the boat to provide reserve buoyancy. 

Thanks to this kind of construction, you could cut most trimarans into pieces, and each would still stay afloat.

While catamarans are typically more stable than monohulls, they’re no match for a trimaran in this regard. Hypothetically speaking, it would be easier to tip over a catamaran than a trimaran if both boat types were subjected to equal magnitude storms. That, however, doesn’t mean that catamarans aren’t safe. They’re still harder to flip over than monohulls and will stay afloat when that happens because they come with the same closed-cell foam found in a trimaran.

While on the subject of safety, it’s worth mentioning that trimarans require less vigilance as far as reefing is concerned . Since catamarans heel less, most of the extra wind force translates to more “push” on the rig, increasing speed. But because the pressure exerted on the sail nearly quadruples when the wind speed doubles, you need to be extremely careful when timing your reef to keep a cat sailing flat. 

The same goes for reefing a trimaran, except that the slight heel gives you more room for error in terms of the timing.

Most people who’ve ever steered both a trimaran and catamaran will agree that the former is more fun to sail. Most light trimarans, especially tiller-steered ones, have a terrific response to the helm. They have a slight heel that somewhat feels like a monohull, but the angle is a bit limited.

A catamaran is stable, but it doesn’t heel. While heeling may be frowned upon by people who prioritize comfort and accommodation in a boat, it’s one of the most exciting parts of sailing. With three hulls to ensure stability, trimarans combine the heel of a monohull with a catamaran’s stability to deliver the best sailing elements of monohulls and multihulls in a single package.  

Considering that trimarans are more stable, you may be better off with one if you’re looking to have some fun as you perfect your helming skills.

Speed is another area where trimarans outperform their twin-hulled counterparts. Typically lighter than catamarans, trimarans need less sail distance to hit double-digit speed averages. A trimaran can maintain a formidable course up-wind when fitted with centerboards/daggerboards (as is often the case for modern models).

While a catamaran is still faster than a monohull of identical size, it falls short of the trimaran in terms of sheer speed. Understand that this doesn’t make catamarans slow boats; it’s just that tris are typically designed with more emphasis on performance.

Why are Trimarans Faster Than Catamarans?

Trimarans are easier to anchor than catamarans because they allow you to keep the ground tackle in and deploy it from the main hull. 

However, catamarans are more maneuverable and manageable in a marina. They also handle docking lines more conveniently.

Catamarans vs. Trimaran: The Verdict

In summary, here’s what the differences between a cat and tri mean for anyone trying to choose between the two: A catamaran is a better choice if you’re looking to accommodate many people on board for something like a party because it’s more spacious and comfortable than a trimaran. On the other hand, a trimaran is an ideal choice for speed junkies and individuals looking to push their sailing skills to the next level on every stable platform.

Hopefully, that has cleared the air and made it easier for you to pick a more suitable option for your sailing needs.

• ResearchGate: A comparison of the motions of trimarans, catamarans and monohulls | Request PDF
• Why are trimarans faster than catamarans?

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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Map of Greek Surname Suffixes

Last Updated: August 25, 2024 Leave a Comment

This map visually represents the prevalence of Greek surname suffixes based on different regions within Greece and some adjacent areas like Cyprus and parts of Turkey.

The suffixes shown on the map indicate regional patterns of how surnames tend to end, which can often be traced back to historical, linguistic, or cultural influences.

Here’s a breakdown of the key suffixes and the regions where they are prevalent:

• -as, -bas, -mas, -pas (Dark Green, Northern Greece): Common in northern regions like Macedonia and Thrace.
• -oudas, -oudis, -akas (Northern Greece): Found mainly in northern Greece, particularly in Thrace and the border areas.
• -oulos, -elos (Central Greece): Prevalent in Thessaly and parts of Epirus.
• -etos, -atos (Western Greece, Ionian Islands): These suffixes are particularly common in the Ionian Islands and parts of western Greece.
• -opoulos (Peloponnese): This suffix is very common in the Peloponnese region, indicating descent.
• -akos, -eas (Southern Peloponnese): Found mainly in the Mani Peninsula of the Peloponnese.
• -akis (Aegean Islands, Crete): Common in the Aegean islands, particularly Crete. It typically indicates diminutive form, often used to express a more affectionate or smaller version of a name.
• -idis, -adis, -iadis (Asia Minor): Predominant in areas that historically had Greek populations, especially in modern-day Turkey.
• -oglu (Asia Minor, Turkish Influence): Common in the regions of Asia Minor with Turkish influence; this suffix has Ottoman roots.
• -elis, -illis (Aegean Islands): Found in parts of the Aegean and Anatolia.
• -ou (Cyprus): Common in Cypriot surnames, where it denotes possession or lineage.

This map is a useful tool for understanding the geographical distribution of different surname patterns in Greek-speaking regions and highlights how names are influenced by historical and linguistic contexts in each area.

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