The innovative trimaran won the Sailing World 2023 “Best Multihull” category in the hotly contested Boat of the Year awards, and it was also included in SAIL’s Top Ten Best Boats for 2023. The judging panels commended the NEEL 43 for its unique interior layout, outstanding comfort and excellent sailing performance.
The Lombard-designed trimaran is the most compact model in the NEEL range, although it has a high freeboard and similar pod design to the NEEL 47, 51 and 65. The model also features a marked move towards the use of bio-sourced and recyclable materials. The trimaran boasts a striking and voluminous interior design optimising panoramic views and accommodates up to ten passengers yet is easily handled by a small crew.
The NEEL 43’s construction mirrors the other models in the range, including a vacuum-infused composite sandwich using PVC and PET foams with carbon-fibre reinforcement. Resins and gelcoats have also been improved with a view to limiting styrene emissions, which is part of the shipyard’s commitment to eco-friendly cruising through the use of bio-sourced and recyclable materials.
The hulls combine a central ‘rockered’ hull, which facilitates tacking and manoeuvring when in port, with streamlined floats that provide stability and prevent pitching. Designed to deliver exhilarating speed, the NEEL 43 carefully balances weight reduction with an adequate load capacity to cater for extended passage making.
The NEEL 43 is also characterised by her unrivalled steering with the single rudder controlled by Vectran lines on ball-bearing blocks and the rudder stock mounted on self-aligning bearings. A slight heel contributes to the sublime feel at the helm and allows the windward float to ‘fly’ over the waves.
The NEEL 43 also features the renowned Cockloon®, an impressive interior/exterior living space facilitated by the wide opening between the cockpit and the saloon. It also incorporates the Full Beam Cockpit®, an extra-wide cockpit with multiple seating configurations that can be rearranged to take full advantage of the different vistas. The helm station is particularly ergonomic, offering a triple seat shaded by a sun awning fixed on stainless steel tubes. Its access, from the cockpit via side steps or from the deck, ensures seamless communication between the skipper and the crew.
The roof is reached by an integrated step on the side, rendering the mast, boom and sun-lounging area easily accessible. Around this area, a secure handrail has been incorporated for safe movement aboard. The wide, well-protected stern skirts make it easier to access the sea and manoeuvre the dinghy. In addition, the system for lifting and handling the dinghy has been greatly simplified.
The interior design of the NEEL 43 incorporates contemporary materials that are both lightweight and functional. The well-appointed saloon offers a panoramic view and exceptional luminosity. The distribution of volumes, flow of movement and natural light make this new interior truly unique living space.
Accommodation onboard includes two double cabins with the owner’s cabin on the main deck featuring outstanding privacy and a breathtaking panoramic view. The double cabin at the front of the central hull is accessible from the saloon.
The saloon, incorporating the galley and navigation table, is an open plan and highly ergonomic living space. The saloon’s main seating can be converted into a double bed, and a partially segregated double berth resting area makes it possible to participate in life onboard while relaxing without impeding the crew. Two single berths are located at the front end of the floats and are accessible from the main deck.
Further information on the NEEL 43 can be obtained by contacting Multihull Solutions on tollfree 1300 855 338 or +61 (0) 7 5452 5164 or emailing info@multihullsolutions.com.au.
Published in print July-September 2023
