Multi 23 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing experience on a Multi 23 is defined by its thoroughbred racing lineage and impressive power-to-weight ratio. Weighing only approximately 700 to 880 pounds depending on the configuration, the boat is exceptionally responsive. According to editorial tests by Sail Magazine, the vessel can easily exceed 20 knots in a stiff breeze, yet remains remarkably well-mannered due to its wave-piercing hulls and 200% ama buoyancy. The design incorporates a significant "dihedral"—the angle between the main hull and the floats—which results in a noticeable initial heel at the dock but ensures that the windward ama remains well clear of the water when under sail, reducing drag.

Tracking is improved by a deep, high-aspect-ratio centerboard and a pivoting carbon-fiber rudder. The boat features a self-tacking jib on a curved track, which simplifies handling during tacks, and a rotating aluminum wing mast that optimizes sail shape. Handling is often described as "light and quick," with Multihulls World noting that the boat can move efficiently even in near-zero wind conditions. The MkII version, introduced later in the production run, increased the carbon fiber content in the beams and rudders to further stiffen the platform and enhance responsiveness.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Multi 23 gained significant attention in the niche world of endurance racing, most notably through its participation in the Race to Alaska (R2AK), where its stability and speed-per-dollar ratio made it a favored platform for competitive teams. It is frequently highlighted in multihull media as a benchmark for the "sport-daysailer" category, often compared to the Diam 24 and the Corsair Pulse 600. Its pedigree is its most famous attribute; media coverage often focuses on the "VPLP touch," linking this 23-footer directly to the design evolution of the world's fastest transoceanic trimarans.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

• Aka/Hull Connections: Early MkI models occasionally experienced stress at the attachment points where the crossbeams meet the hulls. Buyers should inspect the areas around the bolts for stress cracking or crazing in the gelcoat. The MkII addressed this with increased carbon reinforcement.
• Centerboard and Rudder Trunks: The centerboard is a high-performance foil and can be fragile if grounded at speed. Check the trunk for internal damage and the foil itself for leading-edge impact scars. The rudder cassette and pivot mechanism should also be checked for play or wear in the bushings.
• Trampoline Integrity: The trampolines are essential for crew movement and safety. Given the boat's age, original trampolines may be reaching the end of their UV life. Inspect the stitching and the lashing points along the beams for fraying.
• Mooring Behavior: Due to the high dihedral and light weight, the Multi 23 can be restless on a mooring, rocking from side to side in a chop. Buyers who intend to keep the boat on a mooring should check for resulting wear on the shroud attachments and consider the need for a "flopper-stopper" or specialized mooring setup.
• MkI vs. MkII Specifications: The MkII is the more desirable version for racers, featuring approximately 80% carbon beams, a better cockpit layout, and improved deck hardware, often by Karver. Ensure you verify which version is being sold, as the MkII commands a higher price.

Community & Resources

The Multi 23 community is most active through regional multihull associations and specialized dealers. In the United States, Windcraft Multihulls has historically been the primary knowledge hub for the model, providing technical support and performance upgrades. In Europe, Billie Marine and Multisailing have served as central points for owners. While there is no formal global class association in the same vein as Olympic classes, technical discussions and fleet activity are often found within larger multihull forums and racing clubs that host "sport multihull" starts.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Elite Design: VPLP-designed hull forms offer professional-grade speed and stability.
• Safety: Exceptionally high ama buoyancy makes it one of the most forgiving trimarans in its size class.
• Ease of Use: Self-tacking jib and rotating mast make it a viable solo-sailing machine.
• Trailerability: Can be demounted for road transport, though the process typically requires two people and approximately one to two hours.

Cons:

• Minimal Comfort: Truly a daysailer/racer; "accommodation" is limited to gear storage or extremely rugged boat-camping.
• Mooring Manners: The boat’s geometry makes it prone to rocking when not under sail.
• Build Variance: Early Chinese-built units (MkI) may require more scrutiny regarding fit and finish compared to the refined MkII.