Rapidos are Engineered Without Compromise
Designed by Morrelli & Melvin, world leaders in multihull naval architecture, and built by Triac Composites, specialists in advanced carbon structures, Rapido Trimarans has redefined what a true performance cruiser can be.
In a recent independent feature, SAIL Magazine sat down with M&M’s Erik Berzins to unpack why the Rapido 60 is a genuine game changer.
What emerged was a clear picture of a design process driven by science and powered by the same high-end engineering tools used in elite racing programs such as the America’s Cup, including:
- Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD): sculpting ultra-efficient, low-drag hull forms
- Finite Element Analysis (FEA): delivering exceptional strength with minimal weight
- Velocity Prediction Programs (VPP): modelling real-world speed, stability and handling
This behind-the-scenes insight reveals why a Rapido feels so alive under sail — not just quick, but efficiently driven, reassuringly stable, and capable of making fast, comfortable passages even in light winds.
It is this level of innovation in both design and construction that led SAIL Magazine to conclude that the Rapido is “a top choice for cruising.”
For a deeper look into the engineering that sets Rapido apart, read the full independent assessment in SAIL Magazine: Cutting-edge Technology for Multihull Design.
Photo captions. Main photo: FEA allows Morrelli & Melvin to reveal true load paths and potential stress points, enabling them to engineer highly efficient reinforcements that maximize strength without burdening the boat with unnecessary weight. Inset Photo: You Tubers, Sailing La Vagabonde meet with MM prior to the build of their boat, Rapido 60 #04.
SAFETY WITHOUT COMPROMISE
At Rapido, safety is built in — not added on. Every trimaran is designed to meet and exceed CE Category A standards for unrestricted ocean sailing.
Unmatched Carbon Strength
- Carbon foam sandwich construction for a rigid, unsinkable platform.
- Pre-preg, autoclave-cured carbon components (mast, beams, daggerboards, foils, rudders) designed and built in-house for ultimate reliability.
- Synthetic rigging: lighter, stronger, and longer lasting.
Watertight Security
- Multiple bulkheads in every hull — five in the Rapido 60’s main hull, four per float (ama).
- Isolated engine & equipment compartments.
Emergency Preparedness
- Escape hatches: 2 on Rapido 40; 3 on Rapido 50 & 60, including cockpit survival compartments.
- Automatic + portable bilge pumps for redundancy.
- Fire safety: automatic fire suppression systems, extinguishers, fire blanket.
- Induction cook tops eliminate LPG and diesel risks.
Helm & Control
- Elevated helm with all-round visibility under a protective bimini.
- Wide helm seat with ergonomic layout for single-handed safety.
- Direct Jefa steering: precision and reliability.
Performance = Safety
The fastest way out of danger is to avoid it. Rapido’s high-performance design means you can outrun bad weather and reach safe harbor faster.
PERFORMANCE THAT INSPIRES CONFIDENCE
Rapido Trimarans are built for exhilarating speed and control without sacrificing safety.
- Ultra-light, ultra-strong carbon construction paired with powerful sail plans.
- Advanced design tools (CFD, FEA, VPP) ensure maximum performance.
- Race-proven DNA: trimarans dominate offshore records, including Francis Joyon’s solo circumnavigation in just 57 days.
- Asymmetric C-foils and T-foil rudders for lift, speed, and control in all conditions.
- Options for daggerboards for sailors who prefer traditional setups.
Result: Ocean-crossing speed with ocean-cruising confidence.
SPACIOUS. BY DESIGN
Forget cramped sailing. Rapido Trimarans are surprisingly spacious, offering comfort and practicality at sea and at anchor.
- Wide open interiors with lightweight, custom furniture.
- Carbon countertops and finishes designed for strength and elegance.
- Ample storage for extended voyages.
- Expansive nets double as sun decks, play zones, or thrilling ocean-view platforms.
As Riley from Sailing La Vagabonde said after boarding a Rapido 60:
The only thing I was worried about was the amount of space on board. I jumped onboard, ran around and I was like, ‘Ahhhhhh! This is perfectly fine!’ The forward cabin is massive, with a huge bed. When you’re standing in the saloon, you’re actually standing in a huge room.”
STABLE AND COMFORTABLE. FOR EVERY VOYAGE
Stability is the secret ingredient that makes Rapido Trimarans comfortable offshore cruisers.
- Heel angle of just 5–10° vs. 20–35° on monohulls.
- Level decks make cooking, eating, and moving safe and practical.
- Reduced crew fatigue on long passages.
- Wide beam + lightweight design = controlled power, no broaches or knockdowns.
In short: the comfort of a luxury cruiser, with the confidence of a true performance multihull.
Caption. Rapidos have a heeling angle of just 5–10° vs. 20–35° on monohulls.
SUSTAINABLE BY NATURE
Rapido Trimarans are designed not only to perform, but to respect the oceans they sail.
- Lightweight carbon construction reduces fuel needs, emissions, and overall environmental footprint.
- Electric propulsion options for quiet, emission-free motoring.
- Efficient sail plans mean you spend more time harnessing the wind and less time burning fuel.
- Durability of composites ensures your Rapido has a long life cycle with less material waste.
By combining cutting-edge composites with renewable wind power, Rapido represents the future of sustainable ocean cruising.
Caption. Rapidos embody sustainability by design. Their lightweight, efficient hulls allow them to sail when others must motor, reducing fuel use and emissions. With generous space for solar panels and compatibility with electric propulsion, they harness both wind and sun for cleaner cruising. Built from long-life composite materials that don’t corrode and are easily repairable, Rapidos are made to last—responsibly.