A catamaran for high-performance cruising
Combining speed and sailing comfort seems to be the challenge taken up by the GP70, a blue water cruising catamaran due to leave the Trimarine workshops in July 2023 in Portugal. " We started from the owner's demanding specifications, who wanted a fast, high-performance cruising boat that was not too extreme, but still comfortable over long distances "explains Mathias Maurios, associate naval architect and head of the yachting division at VPLP Design.
The GP70, christened "Catch Me", is distinguished by its clean, sleek lines, designed to offer timeless style. The sobriety of its planking and coachroof illustrate this intention. The main objective was to create a seaworthy catamaran consistent with its sailing program. This model features two tiller bars with bucket seats, replacing the traditional steering wheels, for precise, responsive maneuverability. " You don't need much wind to build up speed before switching off the engine. And that's where the performance of this cruising boat lies, as it can reach 25 knots on flat seas", adds Mathias Maurios.
Wise use of materials for a lightweight boat
With 219 m² of upwind canvas and 80% carbon sandwich construction, the GP70 has a displacement limited to 22 tonnes. " We used carbon wherever it made sense: for the deck, superstructures and all bulkheads. But not for the unglazed hulls, which are made of glass sandwich, in particular to avoid the resonance effect and guarantee acoustic comfort" explains Mathias Maurios. The fittings, designed to be lightweight and integrated into the structure, can accommodate eight people, plus two crew members.
The GP70's functional design is also evident in its practical features, such as a waxing cupboard in the cockpit, large external storage lockers and retractable engine controls. Its high energy autonomy is ensured by low-consumption electrical equipment, complemented by solar panels and wind turbines, making the use of a generator unnecessary.
Small-scale production planned
The Trimarine shipyard, renowned for the quality of its nautical constructions, used its expertise to build this ocean-going catamaran. " The aim for the Portuguese shipyard and for the owner of Catch Me, who holds the female moulds for the platform and interior fittings, is to replicate this multihull in small series "says Mathias Maurios. This prospect could pave the way for this type of catamaran for owners looking for a fast, playful steed.
