We could not be happier to share this news with all of you. We truly appreciate the support through a year of massive change and transition, and our aim to continue to grow the late Ian Farrier’s legacy will receive a massive boost thanks to this. This recognition by Sail Magazine means the world to us and we couldn’t be more grateful to them.
To all F-Boat owners (in every form that has taken) throughout Ian’s long career, we thank you. This award wouldn’t be possible without you, the Farrier Family.
From Rob Densem, Michael Reardon, and the entire F-Boat team.
Best Small Cruiser
F-22 Trimaran
This pocket-sized folding trimaran was the swan song design for renowned multihull pioneer Ian Farrier, who worked at refining its details right up until his untimely death at age 70 in December 2017. Farrier played a leading role in popularizing and perfecting the concept of trailerable cruiser-racer trimarans starting in the 1970s and was always working to improve his boats. Built by Farrier Marine, the company Farrier formed after splitting with his first breakthrough firm, Corsair (and which was recently acquired by U.S.-based Daedalus Composites), the Farrier-22 is available in both standard and racing versions and packs a lot of features into a small package. Interior space is maximized by a slightly offset centerboard trunk that is neatly incorporated into the interior furniture (a slightly more intrusive daggerboard is optional) and a further refinement of Farrier’s patented ama folding system, which allows the boat to retain maximum ama beam strength without bringing any of the beam’s structural support into the interior. The amas and their folding struts are also carried higher than before when deployed, which reduces flying spray and increases performance under sail. The boat can be ordered with an aluminum or carbon mast (both versions are rotating), and Farrier’s unique boomless mainsail furling rig simplifies sailhandling while sacrificing nothing in terms of sailing efficiency. Beyond that, what most impressed our judges was the boat’s very cruisable interior. Galley modules to either side of the companionway include a small sink and a two-burner Origo stove and stow neatly away for sailing, while a pop-top over the companionway provides standing headroom. Better still, the boat’s small chemical toilet can be used away from prying eyes, thanks to a very clever folding bulkhead and roll-up screen. Bottom line: with a total of four berths, this boat, which can be rigged and launched singlehanded in about half an hour, can serve as a very versatile cruising platform for couples with or without young children, even as the boat’s screecher set on an optional bowsprit sends you blasting across the bay. f-boat.com; daedalusyachts.com