Unveiled to the public for the first time at the International Multihull Show in La Grande-Motte, France, the new Rapido 40 Racer represents a major evolution in high-performance multihull design. Built by Triac Composites in Vietnam and designed by Morrelli & Melvin, the Racer configuration sheds significant weight while delivering pure speed for day racing, fast cruising, and transoceanic passages.
In an exclusive walkthrough for Multihulls World magazine, journalist Ludovic Roussille explored the engineering choices that make the Rapido 40 Racer stand out. While the standard cruising model already demonstrated remarkable speed, the Racer version elevates performance by shedding between 700 kg and 1 tonne (0.7 to 1 ton) of displacement through a lowered coachroof and a streamlined, functional interior.
Lighter Build, Expanded Sail Plan
The trimaran retains its proven C-shaped carbon foils, daggerboards, and carbon rig, but boosts its upwind sail area from 1,044 sq ft to 1,211 sq ft (97 m² to 112.5 m²). Everything from the hull structures to the masthead is precision-molded full carbon.
Practicality remains central to the design: the voluminous floats provide ample buoyancy offshore and fold inward in port, reducing the beam from 28’10” (8.8 m) at sea down to 17’1” (5.8 m) for easy marina berthing.
Modular, Lightweight Interior
Inside, the Racer replaces heavy cruising amenities with functional carbon fittings. The cabin floor has been lowered to maximize headroom beneath the sleek coachroof. Key highlights include:
- Modular Gear: Removable cooler and portable watermaker can be removed for race days to optimize speed.
- Centralized Engine Access: The 29HP diesel motor sits centrally for ideal weight distribution and immediate maintenance access.
- Accommodations: Features two double berths (aft and forward), a functional carbon galley worktop, a compact head, and a sink.
Rapido 40 Racer Specifications
| Length Overall | 39’6” (12.03 m) |
| Beam (Sailing / Folded) | 28’10” / 17’1” (8.8 m / 5.8 m) |
| Draft (Board Up / Down) | 22” / 4’7” (0.56 m / 1.4 m) |
| Displacement | 9,920 – 11,465 lbs (4.5 – 5.2 t) |
| Upwind Sail Area | 1,211 sq ft (112.5 m²) |
| Builder & Architect | Triac Composites / Morrelli & Melvin |
Video Walkthrough & Onboard Tour
Hosted by Ludovic Roussille (Multihulls World / Multicoques Mag)
Transcript Summary:
“Hello, Ludovic for Multihulls World. We are in La Grande-Motte for the first day of the International Multihull Show at the Rapido stand presenting a world premiere: the Rapido 40 Racer.
The goal isn’t just pure racing, but a boat capable of day sailing and ocean passages while staying accessible in purchase and maintenance costs. From the C-shaped foils and daggerboards to the rudder T-foil and masthead, everything is full carbon built in-house by Triac Composites in Vietnam.
Inside, fittings are lightweight and functional. The carbon galley, accessible central engine, removable watermaker, and cooler optimize weight. Lowering the floor deck allows a sleeker coachroof line, saving up to 1 tonne compared to the cruiser version. A performance trimaran definitely worth sailing soon!”
Related Media & Offial Links
- Full Review: Multihulls World — Performance Without Compromise
- Explore Specifications: Rapido 40 Racer Official Model Page
