A Tricat 25 replacement designed for long-distance sailing
Presented as the successor to the Tricat 25, this new 8.50-meter-long model retains the fundamentals of the range. Manufactured in infusion, it is light, transportable and retains its ability to be sailed single-handed. The shipyard took the time to fine-tune a fully functional prototype and was able to validate its sailing performance. " We're delighted to have kept our promises and to be able to present this new boat. The Tricat 850 is the culmination of a whole host of evolutions and details that have been improved on previous boats, such as the Tricat 10.90 or the Tricat 30." emphasizes François-Xavier Tillier, the shipyard's CEO.
With its folding floats on aluminum arms, its size is compatible with unescorted road transport. It uses the same proven folding system as the rest of the range. The Tricat 850 also features a new drift management system, fully offset on the floats, which simplifies handling when folding.
In the cockpit, the helm station is slightly off-center, to give the helmsman an optimal view of the sail plan. Further forward, crew members are sheltered behind the roof, which offers excellent protection.
An interior optimized for independent cruising
The interior of the Tricat 850 is designed to accommodate five people. There's a double berth forward, another under the cockpit (2 m long and 1.10 m wide), and an additional single berth. Headroom reaches 1.87 m, ensuring good habitability for a trimaran of this size.
The interior layout is true to Tricat logic: symmetrical square, swivel table, kitchen with two gas burners, drawer fridge and plenty of accessible storage space, including under the front bunk. An independent toilet area is discreetly integrated: the toilet is concealed under a trunk, allowing the space to be used differently when not in use.
Natural lighting and on-board ergonomics
Large side portholes ensure plenty of light throughout the saloon. The central companionway is designed to accommodate an additional seat, bringing the number of places around the table to five. The helmsman benefits from a clear cockpit, with all maneuvers within easy reach, in the tradition of multihulls designed for solo sailing.
Internal combustion or electric motor
The Tricat 850 is equipped with a 15 hp trim-mounted outboard motor, with electric start. The shipyard is also planning an electric-powered version. Draught is reduced to 45 cm, allowing easy access to shallow areas.
Equipment in line with the Tricat philosophy
Finally, aluminum rigging is standard, but a carbon version is not yet available. The trampolines have been redesigned for greater comfort, and the lockers in the floats provide additional storage space for longer voyages.
Nevertheless, to perform well, a trimaran must remain light, and it's not advisable to overload the beast, or you'll limit its performance, which promises to be truly excellent.
The model we visited was equipped with a set of All Purpose sails in trilam Biotex membrane, which has the particularity of being made from nettle fibers. The integration of natural fibers reduces the impact of membrane production by over 60%.
In terms of budget, the Tricat 850 is available ex-works at ?124,083 excluding VAT, while the model we visited came in at around ?190,000 including VAT, ready to sail.
