Just over a year after unveiling its new range of motor-powered trimarans, the Neel Trimarans shipyard has launched its first Leen 56, in La Rochelle, France.

Designed by Bernard Nivelt and Pierre Frutschi, the Leen 56, the first hybrid-powered trimaran, has narrow hulls yielding very low hydrodynamic resistance. According to the builder, it is designed to be highly stable and fuel efficient in the open ocean.

Conceived for both long-distance (transatlantic range) and coastal cruising, the Leen 56 combines luxury and seaworthiness in an innovative package that also sports a voluminous flybridge with alfresco appeal.

VIDEO

Guided Tour of the Leen 56 Trimaran

Key to any multihull design, especially trimarans, is the ability to design vast, level living areas for added comfort and convenient flow. The Leen 56 volume allows a remarkable distribution of space with a layout that translates favorably to onboard living for extended cruising.

The structure of the deck and hulls is vacuum-infused, a procedure which ensures maximum weight, better composite quality and low environmental impact.

According the builder, the following performance figures were recorded during sea trials on Leen 56 Hull No. 1: At a speed of 8 knots, (1500 rpm), the 56 burns just 0.33 gallons per nautical mile, for a projected range of 4,000 miles. At 9 knots (1850 rpm), consumption is 0.53 gallons per nautical mile) for a range of 2,500 miles. At 10 knots (2120 rpm), the 56 burns just 0.73 gallons per nautical mile for a range of 1,800 miles. In electric engine mode, at 5 knots, consumption is 0.31 gallons per nautical mile, extending projected range to 4,166 miles.

The main deck has a large kitchen, a dining area and the owner’s cabin. The wheelhouse has a comfortable lounge for guest enjoyment underway. 

The standard layout has three double cabins with private showers. Comprising two deck levels, the owner’s cabin spans the trimaran’s entire starboard side. A bed and office are on the main deck level, with sweeping views over the water. The bathroom with separate shower can be reached by a few steps down to the hull’s lower level. 

The two other double cabins are fitted in the central and port-side hulls. The Leen 56 can be fitted with additional single-bed cabins and separate shower rooms. An optional six-cabin layout accommodates up to 10 guests. 

In all, the owner’s cabin offers of more than 140 square feet of living space, including a double island bed, a study area, a library and plenty of storage space.

With large side openings, the cabin is bright and ventilated, and the light woodwork gives the cabin an elegant contemporary atmosphere.

Accessible directly from the cabin by a few steps, the owner’s bathroom occupies 2/3 of the starboard float. It is equipped with a sink area with two basins, a shower and separate toilets, and plenty of storage space.

The flybridge is accessed from the cockpit. Under the flybridge steps is a heated cupboard for jackets, gear and diving suits. Outside, the side walkways run beneath a Portuguese-style deck, a typical trait of long-range ocean-goers.

Video: Live Launch Official Footage

Experience the genesis of the Leen 56 project and tour the boat, with insight from designer Eric Bruneel, naval architect Bernard Nivelt, and more.

Photo Gallery

Have a closer look at the all-new Leen 56 Trimaran in the gallery below

Specifications

LOA: 56ft.
Beam: 27ft. 
Draft: 3.85 ft. 
Displacement: 18 tons (light); 26 tons (full load)
Fuel: 790 gal.
Water: 184 gal.
Engine: 300-450 hp Cummins QSB6.7
Certification: CE ICNN

For more information: leen-trimarans.com