In the dynamic world of yachting, where innovation constantly reshapes the horizon, MultiHulls Direct Corp. has carved a distinct niche, dedicated to perpetuating the groundbreaking designs of one of multihull sailing's most influential figures. Established in 2012, this Philippine-based builder has become a torchbearer for the renowned Farrier designs, offering high-performance, trailerable trimarans to a global audience.
The Genesis of a Specialized Builder
MultiHulls Direct Corp. was founded through a unique collaboration between Michael Mallory and the late, legendary multihull designer, Ian Farrier. Ian Farrier, an icon in the marine industry, had a profound impact on multihull development, notably starting Corsair Marine in 1984, where his famous F-27 trimaran was conceived. Michael Mallory, the co-founder of MultiHulls Direct, was deeply impressed by Farrier's designs, particularly after building his own F-44SC catamaran. This personal experience, coupled with a shared vision, led to the creation of MultiHulls Direct, with the explicit goal of exclusively producing genuine Farrier designs.
The company's roots are firmly planted in the Philippines, initially establishing operations in the Subic Bay Freeport, with an additional facility later added in the nearby Clark Freeport. This strategic location in Southeast Asia has allowed the company to leverage skilled craftsmanship and competitive manufacturing, bringing these intricate multihulls to market.
Design Philosophy and Distinctive Identity
MultiHulls Direct Corp. is synonymous with the Farrier legacy, upholding a reputation for crafting performance-oriented trimarans known for their speed, stability, and ingenious folding systems. The core of their design philosophy revolves around Ian Farrier's principles, which emphasize ease of handling, robust construction, and, crucially, trailerability. This last feature is a hallmark of Farrier designs, allowing owners unparalleled flexibility in exploring diverse cruising grounds and simplifying maintenance and storage.
The boats produced by MultiHulls Direct are characterized by their signature folding amas (outriggers), a revolutionary concept pioneered by Ian Farrier himself. This mechanism transforms a wide, stable sailing platform into a narrow, road-legal package, making transportation far more accessible than traditional multihulls. While the specific naval architects are implicitly Ian Farrier for the designs themselves, MultiHulls Direct's role is in the precise and faithful execution of these highly engineered blueprints.
Iconic Models and Enduring Legacy
MultiHulls Direct has focused on building some of Farrier's most notable designs, continuing their production and making them accessible to a new generation of sailors. Among the significant models produced by the company are the F-22, F-33 (first built by MultiHulls Direct in 2013), F-85SR, and the F-44SC. These models represent a range of sizes and capabilities, from the popular and easily trailerable F-22 to larger cruising trimarans like the F-44SC.
The "FM-Series" (Farrier-Mallory Series) highlights the collaboration and the continuation of these designs under MultiHulls Direct's stewardship. These boats are celebrated for their exhilarating sailing performance, spacious decks, and comfortable interiors – attributes that define the modern multihull experience. While specific production numbers are not publicly detailed for MultiHulls Direct, their commitment ensures that these highly sought-after designs remain available, cementing Ian Farrier's enduring impact on the multihull segment of the marine industry.
MultiHulls Direct Today
As of today, MultiHulls Direct Corp. continues its operations from its base in Subic Bay, Philippines. The company's website remains active, showcasing their models and reaffirming their dedication to Farrier designs. While online discussions occasionally surface regarding the current operational status of the company's founders, the company's web presence and continued listing of models on various sailing databases suggest ongoing activity.
MultiHulls Direct's boats primarily appeal to discerning sailors who prioritize performance, versatility, and the unique advantages offered by folding trimarans. Owners of these vessels often value the ability to trailer their boats, providing unparalleled freedom to explore different waterways without the complexities of fixed berths. The ownership experience is characterized by a passion for fast, responsive sailing and the robust community of Farrier owners who often share their experiences and modifications online. MultiHulls Direct serves as a vital link, ensuring that the legacy of cutting-edge multihull design, pioneered by Ian Farrier, continues to thrive in the global market.
