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Seaclipper 16 Trimaran – Open Cockpit Version Plans Now Available

by Small Tri Guy | Jan 13, 2016 | Self-built Small Trimarans , Small Tri Info - All , Trimaran Design, Rigging, Construction Info/Links | 7 comments

This new set of plans still allows for that type of setup (should a sailor/builder desire it). But this version offers a fully open cockpit, which of course, allows for traditional sailing/handling of the boat.

I personally can attest to the fact that John’s plans are extremely detailed and the support he offers to builders is 2nd to none. The SC 16 was the first small tri that I built. John always answered any questions I had promptly, via email, and never tired of replying to even my “silly” ones … and I had more than a few of those!

He was very kind to me in that regard :-)

The below description and images come from John. Be sure to contact him if you’re interested in acquiring a set of these boat building plans.

…………….

THE SEACLIPPER 16 TRIMARAN OPEN COCKPIT Design by John Marples

It is as simple as it gets, in construction, layout and trailering operation. Flat, swing aka beams make folding fast and easy. The flat bottom hull design is easy to transport on any flat bed trailer, without form-fitting supports. The rigging is borrowed from the Hobie 14 or other small, popular beach cats. The SC 16 OC exemplifies simplicity, function and low cost.

The first boat from these plans, built by the designer and a friend, Mac MacDevitt, demonstrated the adaption of this basic vessel to suit the needs of the owner. It became a true mini-expedition cruiser, with many simple additions to make it perform its mission. It had a number of closed, watertight compartments, an anchor locker, pedal steering (standard option), windshield, and removable tent fitted to enclose the cockpit.

Like the other Seaclippers in this size range, this boat is constructed of plywood and standard lumber sizes. Its major components could be all purchased from the local lumberyard. In its most primitive form, any type of exterior grade wood glue could be used, and the finished boat just painted.

To improve longevity, we recommend construction with epoxy adhesives and coatings, and sheathing with fiberglass cloth, bonded with epoxy, and then painted with a durable coating system. Boats done this way, and maintained reasonably well, will last for 50 years or more.

For the beginner, this boat is a good choice. Its basic construction methods are easy to learn and with epoxy adhesives, the quality of workmanship is not a factor. Backyard boats like this have been going on for decades, so lots of information on construction is available.

Jim Brown’s book, SEARUNNER CONSTRUCTION is available as a free download from www.outrigmedia.com . Although his book describes more sophisticated vessels, the methods and techniques are the same. The requirements for building tools are very basic – a few electric handyman power tools like, a saber saw, drill and disc sander. A single car garage is big enough workspace. The plans are very detailed so amateur builders with have few questions, if any.

To reduce the beam for mooring in a slip, the swing-wing akas can be folded with the rig still standing. They can be folded or unfolded in a few minutes. Sailing performance will not disappoint seasoned sailors. Three widely spaced hulls generate amazing stability for carrying full sail in a good breeze. Because the boat does not heel much, all that wind power going to forward speed. And there is plenty of speed, if you want. A Youtube video of a SC16 at 10 knots shows the lack of drama at that speed. The boat will go faster, but the sails can also be reefed to reduce power and speed if you desire. It is easy to dial in the sail area to make sailing pleasurable in any wind.

It will carry a load for inland cruise outings. Or, it can outfitted for expeditions by adding a tent enclosure and watertight compartments. All versions will enjoy the retractable board and rudder for beaching. Sit-in-the-cockpit pedal steering is an option for high comfort seating in a facing forward position. Any of these options can be retrofitted to existing boats. This is a boat that can meet all those requirements, and perform all of them well.

Boat specifications

Length over all – 15’ 11” (4.85 M) (without rudder), Beam over all – 11’3” (3.43 M) Beam folded – 7’7” (2.3 M), Draft – 11” (280mm) hull only, 2’7” (787mm) bd down Dry wt. – 400 lb. (180 Kg), Payload – 400 lb. (180 Kg), Full load wt. 800 lb. (360 Kg) Sail area – 146 sq.ft. (13.6 sq.M), Mast length – 21’7” (6.6M), Max size OB – 4 HP Bridge clearance – 24’ (7.3M) mast up, 2’ (610mm) mast down

Contents of Plans Dr. no. 1 – Display arrangement of boat 2 – Sail Plan 3 – Materials and specifications 4 – Lines 5 – Layouts and Amas 6 – Main Hull Assembly 7 – Decking and Cockpit floor 8 – Akas 9 – Misc. parts 10 – Outfitting 11 – Trailer 12 – Full size patterns for bulkheads

Major Materials List

Plywood – marine grade, solid core, water proof glue, 4’ x 8’ (1.219M x 2.438M) 7 sheets ¼” (6mm) 5 sheets 3/8” (9mm) Lumber – straight, clear, dry, vertical grain fir or equiv. 3 pcs. ¾”x 3 ½” (19 x 89mm) x 16’ (4.88M) stringers, glue strips 2 pcs. ¾” x 5 ½” (19 x 140mm) x 15’ (4.57M)stringers 3 pcs. 1 ½” x 3 ½” (38 x 89mm) x 8’ (2.44M) coamings, stems Hardwood – mahogany or other 1 pc. 1 ½” x 3 ½” (38 x 89mm) x 3’ (914mm) tiller Western red cedar 5 pcs. ¾” x 3 ½” (19 x 89mm) x 8’ (2.44M) daggerboard Akas – straight, clear, dry, vertical grain fir or equiv. 3 pcs. ¾” x 7.5” (19 x 191mm) x 8’ (2.44M) 2 pcs. ¾” x 7.5” (19 x 191mm) x 10’ (2.54M) 3 pcs. ¾” x 9.5” (19 x 241mm) x 8’ (2.44M) 2 pcs. ¾” x 9.5” (19 x 241mm) x 10’ (2.54M)

Epoxy 12 gallons including hardener. 6 lb. wood flour filler 3 lb. silica thickener misc. supplies – gloves, mixing cup and sticks, squeegees, etc.

Fiberglass cloth – 4 ounce (135 gr./sq.M), plain weave or twill 75 yds. x 38” (965mm) wide

Rigging Standard Hobie 14 mast, boom and mainsail with “Turbo” jib Hobie 14 mast step

Plans – Order from designer , $180 + $10 S&H, specify ‘SC16 OC’

John R. Marples 295 Bayview Road, Penobscot, Maine, 04476 email: marplesmarine AT gmail.com, phone: (207) 326 8096

Hi, pls, how I does to order/buy plans? Thanks

You can order plans by contacting John at marplesmarine[AT]gmail[DOT]com or call him Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Eastern Time Zone) at 207–326–8096.

Hi, Chris from Australia. I’ll been thinking about building this boat for a long time but, what do I do with the Hobie 14? Can’t I use the hulls in the 16?

It seems crazy to just take the rig and throw the rest of the Hobie away.

Cheers Chris

Hi Chris, Great question. I’d ask John Marples about this (he can be contacted via his email address, found at http://www.searunner.com ). I can tell you from first-hand experience that the amas John designed for the SC center hull are very high-volume. I am not sure if the standard Hobie hulls would have the buoyancy necessary to handle the Hobie 14 rig while it sits on the SC 16 center hull. (That rig, by the way, is perfect for John’s design of the boat). Another challenge would be knowing how to attach the Hobie hulls to the crossbeams. The Hobie hulls would have to be structurally reinforced in the areas of attachment. If one knows what they are doing then I’d say it can be done. But if they don’t then there is a much-increased risk of failure while sailing. What would need to be done involves cutting into the Hobie hulls (and then resealing them) in order to build structural support areas that attach to the new SC16 crossbeams.

Just launched my Seaclipper 16 today! I used the Hobie 14 rig, some of the blocks and the trailer. I advertised the amas and found a buyer. I gave my son the beach buggy to use with a 15′ sail boat he built. No waste and I saved a bunch of money. Build one – it’s fun!

Hi Ed, Many congrats on your successful build! I hope we see your boat featured here on smalltrimarans soon :-)

Hoping this email finds you well.. I’ll contact John Marples separately but it would be fantastic if the plans could be rendered into g-code for production with a CNC mill.

It would reduce labour time immensely!

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50th Anniversary Collectors Issue - September/October Issue No. 300 Preview Now

M80, is a simple to build plywood trailable trimaran, plans are very complete and include DXF files for CNC cutting.A standard folding system is used to faciltate trailing by road at a folded width of 2450mm.The interior consists of two wing berths 2000 x 600 a single up forward 1900 x 700 with room for a chemical toilet.Aft of the wing berths to port is a small galley and storage space to starboard.Standing headroom under the main hatch is 1750 mm. the optional poptop provides full head room.A good sized cockpit of 2500 long is completely open while at anchor with the mainsheet track removed ans stowed.Auxiliary power is from a single 6 - 9.9 HP. Outboard motor.M80 has a kick up rudder with adequate depth for steerage in light weather and a single daggerboard in the main hull.Options on the drawing board at the moment include a smaller cuddy type cabin with an extended cockpit, electric propulsion, and a central cockpit.Plans are currently $AUD 500.00 including the DXF files, the price is valid until early 2014.If the builder wishes the plans are available for building in, Duracore, Duflex or foam sandwich.

Design Specifications

Wayne Barrett [email protected]

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Looking for Bluewater Trimaran plans 40-50 feet

Discussion in ' Boat Design ' started by Schoolbus , Feb 17, 2019 .

Schoolbus Junior Member

There seems to be a real gap of trimaran plans out there in the 40- 50 foot range- I am only finding trailerable tris, or very old Piver type designs, or the 54 foot Chris White Hammerhead..... Anyone out there know of any bluewater 40-50 foot Trimaran plans? (Neel 45 is one of the few production ones, and it is more of a catamaran style.......) Sincerely, Schoolbus  

Angélique aka Angel (only by name)

Schoolbus said: ↑ Anyone out there know of any bluewater 40-50 foot Trimaran plans? Click to expand...

In WoodenBoat Magazine #265 * ( Nov . /Dec . 2018 ) was a design concept for a LOA 39' 4" ( 12 m ) wind - solar - electric trimaran motorsailer by Laurie McGowan . * Table of Contents PDF ​ ​ ( the flickering in the above animation, below the bottom in center view, is the lines of the bow centerboard and the mid centerboard and the rudder interfering with each other while being raised and lowered ) — two Elco EP-14s electric motors, one up and one down in this aft view — ​  

F-39 Farrier is close but a bit short and the retractable amas put it into the trailerable slot, I am really looking for a dedicated bluewater cruiser tri....... Something about the WoodenBoat's tri seems a bit off.....cant put my finger on it- a bit like a Popular Mechanic quality of execution..... Schoolbus  

rwatson Senior Member

There are Grainger Tri's - about four models TR52 Performance Trimaran https://www.graingerdesigns.net/trimaran-designs/tr52-trimaran/  

Philippe Briand has designed the Exception 52 Tri, several were built by Techni Yachts Pinta in the 1980's , here's one for sale , don't know if Philippe sells plans for it though, but if meant for single handed self build then such projects are gonna be to big I think.  

rwatson said: ↑ There are Grainger Tri's - about four models TR52 Performance Trimaran https://www.graingerdesigns.net/trimaran-designs/tr52-trimaran/ Click to expand...

Tad Boat Designer

Searunner Multihulls - CC 44 Tri http://www.searunner.com/index.php/cc-44-tri Traveler Class Trimaran by Dick Newick http://dicknewickboats.com/traveler.html Kurt Hughes Multihull Design - Catamarans and Trimarans for Cruising and Charter - 52' Trimaran http://www.multihulldesigns.com/designs_stock/52tri.html  

Richard Woods Woods Designs

Add Roger Simpson, John Marples to the list if you can still get plans (not sure) RW  

Here's a thread about a Roger Simpson 43 ' Liahona stalled build project, it shows it's important to make a realistic plan how to finish such a project before starting it. To see some pics of a completed Liahona, there's a fixer upper for sale * , she's located on Walter Greene' s yard in Yarmouth ME. ( * see post #20 - #25 - #27 in the above linked thread )  

↑ 2 × the in 1999 Greene built 38' Scout , designed by Walter Greene. ↑ P2 - 52' Newick/Lambert/Greene design, in 2005 built by Greene. See also Dick Newick designs. ( one of them is already linked by Tad in post #8 )  

Squidly-Diddly Senior Member

here is a good one.  

At 60' she's out of range, she's an tarted up for hollywood older version of an ORMA 60 ... Same type , the old ORMA 60 Brossard , she was wrecked in 2009 in Oman , and has been there like pictured for quite a number of years .  

I always thought that the big harpoon in the front would have been super useful. Would have added a lot to the marina charges though.  

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That's why they've parked Brossard's bow on the boulders in Oman, as they were only charged for the part in the water there . . from Brossard's better days . . . ​ ​  

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TRI-STAR 32XR an enjoyable sailing and comfortable Trimaran that will do well be it cruising or week end enjoyment. Designed with developed round bottom hulls for maximum load carrying ability and minimum wetted area that adds up to enjoyable sailing. TRI-STAR 32XR has full buoyancy ama for maximum under wing clearance. Mast step to water line is Sft for the lowest possible windage while inside the spacious interior accommodations has over 6'2" headroom. A Australian owner says after sailing in 30kt wind gusting to 3Skts "that the boat behaved exceptionally well". TRI-STAR 32XR cutaway drawing shows the spacious inter fitted out for enjoyable sailing. TRI-STAR 31CM may be built using either cold molded plywood construction or foam F.G. sandwich construction. Which ever method the builder selects, the builder will find the design is detailed with the most comprehensive of plans - plans that include full-size patterns and Ed Horstman's informative construction books that cover fully every stage of construction. Great to sail, easy to build the TRI-STAR 32XR is a Tri you would enjoy.

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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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W22 Sailing Trimaran

For more descriptive information on the W22, CLICK on one of the links below…

Study profile of the w22 sailing trimaran.

The first W22 is now complete and hull Plans with a detailed Build Manual are now available. (Write to me for purchasing details if not attached).

As mentioned in earlier bulletins, the W22 was designed to fall in the slot between the totally open cockpit boat (like the W17 and M23) and the full cabin boats (such as the L7, F22 and Scarab 22). By selecting this niche, the boat will offer more cockpit space than the cabin boats, yet still have overnight camp-style accommodation under a closable cuddy, with the option of fully enclosing the large cockpit with a tent for dining inside under full protection, for family and friends. By keeping the boat interior as simple as possible and using a proven and easy-to-use demountable system for the amas, the boat can be as light as boats of more complex hi-tech construction, yet be less expensive and easier to build, with potentially even better performance, aided by greater beam and higher volume amas.

As for all my designs, this boat will offer above average comfort, performance and dryness and was created to give an excellent return-on- investment. The relatively simple construction system has some unique twists and combines the best of two worlds with a rounded underwater section and spray-deflecting knuckle, with fast-to-assemble plywood** panels for the topside, all sheathed for long life. All the stations and bulkheads are now available on *.dxf files for printing out full size or CNC cutting and ply panels have developed offsets for easy fitting.

** (there’s always the option to replace plywood with foam-cored panels, though this increases material cost of the hulls. The first boat was foam- cored though.

As I said when introducing the W17, many sailors are intrigued or already bitten by the multihull bug, but not everyone is ready to put thousands of hours into building, or high dollars into buying boats now on the market. So for those looking for something really neat looking that will perform very well in all conditions AND also be affordable, the W22 could be your answer. Below are her specs. and outlines.

With all my designs, I am personally looking for “Overall Performance” and by that I mean a sweet blend of attributes that makes my boats a pleasure to own and sail. First of all, I want them to ‘feel right’ and perform efficiently. I also want them to be cost- effective, comfortable and drier than their competitors, and finally, provide the deep sailing satisfaction that brings their owner home with a big smile.

There is something extremely satisfying about building your own boat as many in the past have learned. But there are not many new designs out there that still use familiar material like strip cedar and marine plywood that's available almost the world over. Its combination with epoxy and glass now goes a long way to prolonging its life too if used and ventilated as recommended. As for the W17, the W22 is designed with a rotating wing mast in mind. In the case of the W22, this will be an efficient wingmast of carbon fiber that can be uniquely built as a one-off, for a fraction of the cost of a professional CF mast. A detailed manual for this mast is now available and three such masts have already been successfully built.

With space for 4-5 to daysail or for enjoying some fast sailing for 2-3, this boat will change the way you think about sailing for ever. She is unapologetically based on my 16 years of experience with “Magic Hempel” and even though I’d already sailed for 45 years when I bought that boat, that boat changed my enjoyment of sailing in a major way and inspired the W22, even after she was sold.

I was finally able to get over to Europe to test sail the first W22 recently, and she will be everything that I’ve promised above. Unfortunately the weather was mostly with a gentle breeze though we had one early day with a few gusts to show us the promise of what’s to come .... readily reaching 12kts with minimal effort. The owner had already reported he was totally delighted with the performance, touching 8kts in 8kts of wind and remarked on, ‘the quiet smoothness through the water, good acceleration and responsive handling’ with the twin rudders. Numerous Build Articles have already been posted on my website and more will follow as I strive to find time to now write them.

Attached are some drawings and photographs ... with the sailing shots taken only recently (March 2017) while in Portugal.

Plans as available are only US$420 (now back to US$350 again with on-line file transfer that saves high mailing cost) .....

Write for pre-purchase agreement to [email protected] .    The purchasing procedure will then be sent to you.

W22 Lower Main Hull shown above - built with glass covered strips, using foam, balsa or cedar - For more construction pics., see Building the W22

Note the fast and elegant form achievable with a combination of strip construction and flat topside panels

Day sailing on a trimaran like this is greatly enhanced with the large, comfortable trampolines that offer a huge deck area, yet are still light in weight.

The molded, lower part of the main hull will be built on a simple building frame, using computer-generated faired sections and cedar strips, all epoxy sheathed.

Cuddy and cockpit - customized to suit each owner

Heading out into the Mediterranean

Easy tacking with double rudders and momentum maintained

Lifting rudders & centerboard permit safe sailing off the beach

7 knots over ground against the current

‘Markiza’ in Portugal 2017

"If you have any questions about the W22, please use our question & comments form." —webmaster

"See the Copyright Information & Legal Disclaimer page for copyright info and use of ANY part of this text or article"

24 Foot Sailing Trimaran

Introduction: 24 Foot Sailing Trimaran

Step 1: Beaching After the Maiden Voyage

Step 2: Cartopping

Step 3: Or on a Trailer

Step 4: Inspiration

Step 5: Cut and Paste Catamaran Hulls Together End-to-end

Step 6: Thinning the Edge

Step 7: Jigging It Up

Step 8: Glassing

Step 9: Rough Fairing

Step 10: Rapid Fairing

Step 11: Glazing and Finish Sanding

Step 12: High Build Sanding Primer

Step 13: Outrigger Floats

Step 14: Float Blocks

Step 15: Cutting Curved Grooves With a Tablesaw

Step 16: Wooden Shoes

Step 17: More Wooden Shoe Cobbling

Step 18: Hot Spring Break

Step 19: Lashing It All Together

Step 20: Carry It to the Beach

Step 21: Please Return!

Step 22: Farewell Hugs

Step 23: Raising the Sail

Step 24: Launching!

Step 25: So Far So Good

Step 26: What's Going to Happen?

Step 27: Sailing and Landing

Time Machine

ATL/Oaks Racing at Hamilton Island 1986

TR42 on this link

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