When I first laid eyes on my NEEL 52 trimaran sitting in the water in La Rochelle in early 2024, I knew immediately this wasn’t just a boat—it was the culmination of a lifelong dream. My wife, Gabi, and I had spent years imagining life at sea, and finally, thanks to Gregor Tarjan at Aeroyacht, our trimaran was perfectly outfitted for global cruising. Gregor didn’t just sell a boat; he became a trusted wingman, offering advice, reassurance, and expertise at every stage.
Maiden Voyage: Discovering Freedom at Sea
We left La Rochelle in Spring after the yard rectified minor repairs and upgrades. I must say, they did a proper job of supporting is – although their pace was slow and lunchbrakes could not be interrupted:). We left on a strong Northerly wind and our journey began in the Mediterranean, exploring quiet anchorages and hidden coves. SAMBA, our NEEL 52 trimaran immediately proved its worth. Its voluminous central hull and narrow wave-piercing amas made it glide effortlessly through choppy seas. Gabi could enjoy breakfast or read while I trimmed sails, completely unfazed by the waves. “This boat doesn’t just float,” I told her one morning. “It dances.”
One unforgettable afternoon near the Balearics, a pod of dolphins escorted us for miles. Gabi filmed in awe while I leaned on the rail, mesmerized. Later, watching the sun set, we felt the vastness and beauty of the ocean—freedom that only a multihull like the NEEL 52 can deliver.
Challenging Conditions, Complete Confidence
Crossing the Atlantic tested both of us. A heavy front brought 35-knot winds and rough seas, but the NEEL 52’s stability and responsiveness made every passage exhilarating. While other vessels pitched and rolled, we moved confidently, adjusting sails with ease. “The NEEL 52 doesn’t just sail—it dances with the wind,” I often say.
We also encountered more sobering moments. Near North Africa, a small fishing vessel crowded with migrants needed assistance. We were able to approach safely, provide water and rations, and relay their location to authorities. Life at sea reminds you that your journey intersects with others in ways land never does.
Safety and Ease with Every Port Call
Even routine stops brought lessons. A coast guard inspection near the Caribbean was smooth and effortless thanks to the trimaran’s design. Handling lines, fenders, and documents was easy, while privacy and comfort for Gabi remained intact. Within minutes, we were back under sail, leaving turquoise waters streaked with foam.
Paradise Found: The San Blas Islands
Some of our most cherished moments are in the San Blas islands. Crystal-clear waters, pristine reefs, and secluded anchorages create an unparalleled sanctuary. Gabi and I snorkel, explore, and cook meals in the fully equipped galley. Nights are spent on deck under a canopy of stars, with bioluminescent waves glowing around the NEEL 52. “We can be anywhere, yet feel like the only people on Earth,” Gabi says.
Gregor at Aeroyacht: A Lifelong Wingman
Through every passage, Gregor has been invaluable. Satellite calls and emails allow me to check in about maintenance, navigation, or upgrades. Whether recommending solar enhancements or offering reassurance during a squall, Gregor has proven to be more than a broker—he’s become a lifelong partner in our dream.
Performance and Comfort in Perfect Balance
Offshore passages to South America pushed our endurance, yet the NEEL 52 exceeded expectations. Its hybrid-electric propulsion allows silent motoring when wind drops, conserving fuel and preserving tranquility. Speed and efficiency let us outrun squalls and cover long distances without fatigue. The NEEL 52 balances performance and comfort perfectly—it’s everything I hoped for and more.
Planning the Next Horizon
Looking ahead, we plan to circumnavigate more of the Caribbean, sail up the U.S. east coast, explore the Bahamas, traverse the Panama Canal, and venture into the South Pacific. Every leg is planned but flexible, allowing for secluded coves, wildlife encounters, or friendly exchanges with other sailors. The NEEL 52 gives us complete freedom to chart our own path.
The Heart of the Journey
At the heart of it all are the quiet moments. Morning coffee on deck, Gabi sketching the coastline while I plot our course, evenings under a star-filled sky—the NEEL 52 provides freedom, safety, and comfort. It makes every day at sea feel like home.
Reflecting on the year since delivery, I realize how far we’ve come. What began as a dream has become a fully lived life at sea. The NEEL 52 is more than a boat—it’s our sanctuary, our vessel of independence and adventure. And Gregor at Aeroyacht didn’t just help us buy a yacht—he gave us the confidence to pursue and live this dream fully. “This isn’t just a boat. It’s freedom, exploration, and joy rolled into one.”
Dolphins, squalls, migrant vessels, coast guard inspections, and pristine anchorages—we’ve experienced it all. And through it, our NEEL 52 trimaran has proven itself an extraordinary platform for adventure, performance, and peace of mind. Wherever the wind takes us next, one thing is certain: with the NEEL 52 and Gregor’s guidance, our dream continues to grow, mile by mile, horizon by horizon.
