What are the key points on a trimaran?
A trimaran is distinguished by three characteristics: Speed, Stability and lightness.
Speed increases navigational distances. The faster we go, the farther we go. By lengthening the stride, by offering speeds well in excess of a monohull, the trimaran enables you to envisage more distant stages.
A trimaran is stable, she doesn't heel. This stability is very reassuring, especially in the context of a family programme. This comfort at sea and the surface area of the platform enlarged by the trampolines which go from one float to the other are a security for the whole crew. This stability and behaviour at sea also limits seasickness. Often crew members who are ill on monohulls are not ill on trimarans.
With the absence of ballast, a trimaran is light. This weight will be an asset for transport. With the addition of the folding arms as the Astus have, these yachts can be masted and launched by one person alone in a few minutes. This autonomy of use and the possibility of towing the sailboat with a normal vehicle opens up a new world. Even remote bodies of water become accessible.
What are the uses for a trimaran?
Owners of Astus trimarans are above all looking for a yacht that is easy to manoeuvre. Even if they don't sail single-handed, they are often accompanied by a crew of unamarined novices (family, children...). To do this, all the manoeuvres return to the cockpit accessible from the helm station: sheets, halyards and daggerboard manoeuvres.
Small and easy to handle, these trimarans are often used for sailing close to the coast, on low rocks. They must therefore be easy to handle. To do this, the centreboard in the central hull is pivoting, as is the rudder blade. For safety, a fuse system prevents breakage. This is all the more true as speed often creates damage.
The trimaran's programme is twofold. The owners use it for day coastal cruising with the family or as a raid during the summer season. But with the same boat, they also do regattas with their friends in the off-season. This duality of use is very much appreciated.
What should not be forgotten when buying?
The shipyard that delivers the boat offers a list of options to which some accessories must be added: a trailer, an outboard motor and a dinghy (often paddle or kayak). You will also need to think about insurance. The shipyard is not a prescriber, but it helps customers to find the best price/protection compromise for their clients. Having a good knowledge of our boats, the shipyard can also help in the choice of safety equipment to adapt it to the crew and the practice. It is this assistance that is important for the owner to make the best use of his new toy.
