Neel Trimarans has unveiled its highly anticipated new compact trimaran, the NEEL 43. The Lombard-designed addition to the range is even more innovative and impressive, featuring a marked move towards the use of bio-sourced and recyclable materials.
More compact than her big sisters, the 47, 51 and 65, the new NEEL 43 will still have a high freeboard and a very similar pod in terms of design. The trimaran boasts a striking and voluminous interior design optimising panoramic views and comfortably 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 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 sail plan comprises a mainsail and a roller furling jib, and the asymmetrical spinnaker makes it easier to comfortably sail windward. All manoeuvres lead back to the helm, from where the skipper enjoys an unobstructed 360° view.
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 saloon can be configurated in a variety of ways, allowing intimate spaces to be created depending on practical cruising needs and personal desires, and yet always offers a panoramic view and exceptional luminosity.
The distribution of volumes, flow of movement and natural light make this new interior a truly unique living space. Accommodation onboard includes two double cabins with the master stateroom 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 entirely open plan and a highly ergonomic living space. The saloon’s main seating can be converted into a double bed. A partially segregated double berth resting area makes it possible to participate in life onboard while relaxing without impeding the crew. It is also an ideal place for children to take a supervised nap during the day. Two single berths are located at the front end of the floats and are accessible from the main deck.
SPECIFICATIONS NEEL 43
LENGTH OVERALL: 13.01 M
BEAM: 7.49 M
DRAFT: 1.5 M
AIR DRAFT: 18.89 M
DISPLACEMENT: 9 T
FULLY BATTENED MAINSAIL AREA: 630 SQ FT
FURLING GENOA: 466 SQ FT
WATER: 500 L
FUEL: 300 L
ENGINE: 50HP DIESEL SAIL DRIVE
Further information can be obtained by contacting Multihull Solutions on 1300 855 338 or emailing info@multihullsolutions.com.au
Published in print January-March 2022
