The Neo 400+ is built in southern Italy, in Bari to be precise. The prototype has already impressively demonstrated its high performance capabilities in international regattas, for example with its success in the Rolex Middle Sea Race. Behind the Neo Yachts project is Paolo Semeraro, a former Olympic sailor and now head of the sail manufacturer Bank Sails.
The YACHT test editorial team sailed the prototype, which was built for the shipyard as a test carrier, in the Mediterranean. In the meantime, the first production boat Neo 400+ has been built and delivered with some significant modifications and improvements, and construction number 2 is currently in progress. The boat was designed by Giovanni Ceccarelli. The brief for him was clearly outlined by the shipyard: a lightweight carbon fibre hull, slim and deep hull appendages and a high mast with a generous sail area. The sail carrying capacity of the Neo 400+ is 6.1, which is unusually high even for a performance boat.
Below deck, the racer surprises with a sober but very functional interior that is suitable for touring. The unconventional layout is particularly exciting, with a saloon area in the foredeck and two aft cabins, each with three single berths that can be arranged individually.
You can read the detailed test report herein the YACHT, issue 4/2018.The booklet is available in DK-Shop or you can download the test report directly via the link below.
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Michael Good
Editor Test & Technology
