Corsair Marine's journey began in 1984, founded in San Diego, California, specifically Chula Vista. The company was established through a partnership with John Walton, son of Walmart founder Sam Walton, who provided the crucial financial backing for production. From its inception, Corsair Marine set out to specialize in lightweight composite trailerable trimarans, a niche that would define its legacy.
A pivotal figure in Corsair's early success was the renowned naval architect Ian Farrier. Farrier was the original designer of all boats built by Corsair, establishing the brand's reputation for speed, innovation, and, critically, the revolutionary folding system that made these multihulls easily transportable by road. This versatility was central to the company's vision, offering sailors the exhilaration of multihull performance with the convenience of a trailerable boat.
History and Evolution
From its founding, Corsair Marine quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to trimaran design and construction. The company's focus on lightweight composite materials ensured high performance and durability from the outset.
A significant turning point in Corsair Marine's history occurred in 2000 when its design relationship with Ian Farrier concluded. This transition marked a new chapter for the company as it continued to evolve its designs.
A decade later, in October 2010, Corsair Marine underwent a major corporate change when it was acquired by Seawind Catamarans, a prominent Australian boat builder. This acquisition was hailed as a "marriage made in heaven," leveraging the combined expertise of both companies in multihull construction. Following the acquisition, Corsair Marine's manufacturing headquarters were relocated to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, where it continues to operate today, employing over 100 Vietnamese professionals, 32]. Corsair Marine now functions as the manufacturing division of Seawind Catamarans, benefiting from shared ideas and systems.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Corsair Marine has carved out an excellent reputation in the sailing world, particularly for its high-performance, versatile trimarans that are in high demand across the USA, Europe, and increasingly, Asia. The brand is celebrated for its ability to deliver exhilarating performance, often achieving speeds exceeding 20 knots, while maintaining remarkable stability and comfort.
The cornerstone of Corsair's design philosophy lies in its patented folding mechanism, which allows the outer amas (hulls) to retract, significantly reducing the beam for easy trailerability and docking. This unique feature has made Corsair trimarans the most versatile on the market, appealing to those who desire both competitive sailing and convenient transport. The boats feature lightweight composite construction, a hallmark of their performance orientation. While Ian Farrier was the initial visionary designer, post-2000, the company's designs have continued to evolve under new leadership and collaborations within the Seawind group. Modern Corsair models, such as the C37, also incorporate intelligent features like retractable daggerboards and rudders for shallow water exploration, blending performance with practical cruising capabilities.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Since 1984, Corsair Marine has produced and sold over 2,500 trimarans worldwide, a testament to its enduring appeal and impact on the multihull segment. While many of Ian Farrier's initial designs (often referred to as F-boats, like the F-27) became iconic and highly sought after, Corsair has continued to innovate with a diverse range of models.
Today, Corsair Marine offers a dynamic lineup that includes models like the Pulse 600, Dash 760, Corsair 880, and the Corsair 37 (C37). The Dash 750 (and its successors like the 760) is particularly notable, praised for its attractive design, blistering speed, and perfect blend of trailerability and sportboat performance.
The Corsair 37 (C37) stands as one of the largest models, measuring approximately 11.27 meters (37 feet) in length. It is lauded for combining the speed and responsiveness of a trimaran with the comfort and livability typically associated with larger monohulls, making it a comfortable cruising vessel. The Pulse 600, a newer one-design 20-foot trimaran, represents Corsair's commitment to creating more compact and affordable options, broadening its appeal to modern sailors and families. The Corsair 880 has also made a strong impression, proving itself as a legitimate pocket cruiser that maximizes amenities within its trimaran platform.
The Builder Today
Currently, Corsair Marine operates under the ownership of Seawind Catamarans, an Australian company that acquired Corsair in 2010. The manufacturing operations are centrally located at the company's headquarters in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Corsair Marine's modern boats continue to appeal to a broad spectrum of sailors, from those seeking high-performance racing platforms to families desiring comfortable, capable cruising yachts. The ability to fold and trailer their trimarans remains a significant draw, offering unparalleled flexibility in transport and storage. The ownership experience is further enriched by a strong and active global Corsair owner community, which frequently organizes regattas and sailing "Safaris". Many Corsair dealers are themselves owners, providing an authentic and knowledgeable network for potential buyers. Furthermore, the company supports various ownership models, including syndicate and charter options, making the dream of owning a Corsair trimaran accessible to a wider audience.
