Tremelino Boat Co., though no longer actively building, holds a notable, albeit specialized, place in the annals of American yachting. This Chaska, Minnesota-based builder carved out a distinct niche by collaborating with one of the most revered names in multihull design to produce a series of innovative and performance-oriented trimarans.
The story of Tremelino Boat Co. is intrinsically linked to its founder, John Olin, and the visionary naval architect, Richard "Dick" Newick. While specific details about Olin's background are scarce, it is clear that he established Tremelino Boat Co. in Chaska, Minnesota, with a focus on producing sailing vessels. The company's hallmark would become its collaboration with Newick, a designer renowned for his fast, efficient, and often unconventional multihull creations. The primary motivation appears to have been to bring Newick's highly regarded trimaran designs to a wider market, offering both factory-built boats and plans for home construction, thus democratizing access to high-performance multihull sailing.
The company's first and most iconic boat was simply named the "Tremolino." First built in 1982, this trimaran was constructed from fiberglass, a material that by then had become standard for production yachts due to its durability and moldability. The Tremolino represented an accessible entry into the thrilling world of performance trimarans, offering a significant step up for sailors looking beyond smaller, more common multihulls like Hobie Cat catamarans.
A Legacy of Speed and Innovation
Tremelino Boat Co.'s history is largely defined by its commitment to Dick Newick's design philosophy: creating lightweight, strong, and exceptionally fast trimarans. Newick's designs were celebrated for their elegant simplicity and their ability to deliver exhilarating sailing experiences without the complexity often associated with larger, more intricate multihulls. This reputation for performance was central to the builder's identity.
A unique aspect of Tremelino's impact was the dual nature of its production. While Tremelino Boat Co. manufactured completed boats, many "Tremolinos" were also built by amateur enthusiasts from Dick Newick's plans, underscoring the design's appeal and the builder's role in disseminating these innovative concepts. This approach fostered a dedicated community around the boats. The transition to fiberglass for hulls allowed for consistent construction and performance, although some designs incorporated elements like Hobie 16 hulls for the amas (outriggers), demonstrating an innovative use of existing components. While Tremelino Boat Co. itself is no longer in business, there were instances where the design saw renewed production under new ownership, a testament to its enduring appeal.
The Iconic Tremolino
The "Tremolino" is undeniably the most significant and successful model produced by Tremelino Boat Co. It quickly gained a reputation as a very fast sailboat, embodying Dick Newick's principles of efficient multihull design. The original Tremolino design was approximately 23.5 feet in length with a beam of about 16.5 feet, offering a balance of speed and trailerability.
Over its production life, variations of the original design emerged, including the "Tremolino II" and the "T-Gull 23" and "T-Gull 25" models. These models maintained the core performance characteristics while potentially offering slight refinements or different specifications. The impact of the Tremolino on the industry, particularly in the niche of trailerable performance trimarans, was considerable. It provided a viable option for sailors seeking the thrill of multihull speed without the logistical challenges of larger vessels, bridging the gap between small beach cats and more substantial cruising trimarans. Production numbers are not widely publicized, but the widespread presence of both factory-built and home-built versions suggests a respectable reach within its market segment.
Enduring Appeal and Community
Tremelino Boat Co. ultimately ceased operations, as is the case for many specialized boat builders Overview. However, the legacy of the Tremolino trimaran, designed by Dick Newick and brought to life by John Olin's company, continues to thrive through a passionate owner community. Groups like "tremolino@groups.io" serve as active hubs for owners to share knowledge, experiences, and maintain these classic multihulls. This vibrant community underscores the boat's excellent design and its enduring appeal for those who value speed, simplicity, and the unique experience of trimaran sailing. The fact that these boats, some built decades ago, are still actively sailed and sought after on the used market speaks volumes about their robust construction and timeless design.
Even today, the Tremolino trimaran, whether factory-built or lovingly constructed from plans, appeals to sailors who prioritize performance, ease of handling, and a direct connection to the water. The ownership experience is often characterized by camaraderie within the dedicated community, sharing maintenance tips, sailing stories, and a mutual appreciation for Dick Newick's genius and Tremelino Boat Co.'s role in bringing these remarkable boats to life.
