YACHT has just published a test of a rather unusual multihull in issue 6/2018. The Neel 51 from France combines the comfort of a large multihull with the powerful sailing characteristics of a trimaran. The concept was awarded the title of European Yacht of the Year 2018 in January. The initiator and namesake Eric Bruneel caused a furore with his ambitious idea back in 2011. Back then, the proven multihull expert had presented a remarkably innovative concept with the Neel 45 (presented in YACHT 9/2013).
Now Neel-Trimarans has stepped on the gas once again and presented a 47-footer. The concept remains unchanged: An enormous living space spread over three hulls, plus additional living units in the side outriggers. The larger Neel 51 has a total living area of around 107 square metres, which corresponds to the floor space of a four-room flat. The Neel 47, which is two metres shorter and only 40 centimetres less wide, is likely to have a similarly spacious living area.
And the new boat adopts the idea of the "cockloon" from its bigger brother. The term created by the shipyard also literally stands for the fusion of the exterior cockpit and saloon into one functional unit. The owner's cabin is located on the platform as a completely separate living area, together with the spacious seating area, the galley and a navigation corner facing the front window front with the option of steering the trimaran from inside. A spacious wet room with separate shower area is recessed into the forepeak of the central hull.
Two additional double cabins are provided in the side hulls, also combined with their own heads compartments. The forepeaks can also be converted into cabins for the skipper(s). An exciting feature is that the living areas in the side hulls are not accessible from the central saloon, but only through their own companionways. This complete separation can be very convenient for owners sailing with guests.
The helm position is raised to the side and all sheets, halyards and trim lines are led directly in front of the helm cockpit. In addition to the standard self-tacking jib for tacking, the concept provides for an additional, larger genoa on the furler. A code zero or gennaker can also be ordered as an option. The additional sails are set on a permanently attached bowsprit.
Neel-Trimans in La Rochelle is still working on the detailed equipment and price lists for the 47th model. A base price has also not yet been named.
More about multihulls in the big special in YACHT 09/2018
