Every year, the European Yacht of The Year award is given to the top names in the sailing world of the yachting industry. Classified by category, the winning yachts are revealed on the opening night of the world's largest boat show, the Boot Düsseldorf, which will be held from 18 to 26 January 2020.
Whereas 25 years ago they were considered "exotic", catamarans and trimarans have experienced astonishing growth in recent years. In fact, they are in such high demand that waiting lists of one to two years are getting longer. Then why this succès?? For catamarans, because of the immense living space and the intimacy they provide, hence their great success in charter fleets. For the trimarans, we will appreciate their performance and their great stability.
Excess 15
The market leader Lagoon has introduced this year a new range of catamarans, including the Excess 15 is the first model launched. They are designed to provide a more active boating experience and are aimed at a younger audience. Designed on existing hull moulds, they have two steering wheels and a sail plan that plays the game of performance. Following the general trend, the mast moves backwards offering a narrow-horned mainsail that is easier to manage and more efficient. While the self-tacking jib offers more surface area.
As the largest model in the range, the Excess 15 offers more space. The living space is reminiscent of the interior of a modern loft, both airy and open.
Discover the range of Excess catamarans
Lagoon 46
In addition to the Excess, the Bordeaux-based manufacturer has another trump card up its sleeve, the Lagoon 46 . Even if it does not have the advantages of the two other nominees, it seems to offer some innovative solutions, notably the central cockpit on the flybridge.
Whereas on units of this type, the helm station is generally offset on one side, the skipper can see the two bows from his seat. It also has better visibility, especially during docking manoeuvres.
The hull structure gives the Lagoon 46 a sturdy side and provides more space in the cabins, especially in the berths. It is available in a 3-cabin version or in a symmetrical 4-cabin layout and offers attractive design elements such as shelves for storing books or large sunbathing areas at the bow and stern of the helm station.
Read the test of the Lagoon 46
Neel 47
By presenting an innovative trimaran concept a few years ago, Neel has since established himself as an established leader. Le Rochelais now presents the Neel 47 which offers the same features as the Neel 51, but in a more compact size, including an owner's cabin on the main deck next to the saloon.
The difference with the 45 is in the rear skirts of the floats. In terms of sailing, the 47 is expected to outperform cruising catamarans of similar size - one of the main selling points of the Neel range.
