Corsair & Farrier vs. Dragonfly – Which One Is Right for You?
Are you looking for a beginner-friendly, trailerable trimaran? The Farrier F-27 is a legend, but it is not your only choice. If you are asking yourself, “Is the F-27 the best pick, or should I also look at other boats?” – this practical guide is for you. It is based on owner feedback, market research, and real experience.
Why Consider Alternatives?
The F-27 is fast, fun, and proven, but every sailor has different needs. You might want more comfort, easier rigging, a modern interior, or just the best deal. Comparing the top trailerable trimarans helps you find the perfect boat for your sailing style, tow vehicle, and budget.
Side by Side Comparison Table
| Model | LOA | Weight (empty) | Beam Folded/Open | Draft (Board Up) | Setup Time | Typical Used Price (EUR/USD) | Interior | Trailerability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Farrier F-27 | 8.25 m | 1,180 kg | 2.57 / 5.82 m | 0.36 m | 30-60 min | 25-50k / 30-55k | Basic, 2-3 berths | Easy, car or SUV | Classic, robust, huge community |
| Corsair F-24 | 7.3 m | 820 kg | 2.49 / 5.46 m | 0.30 m | 25-45 min | 22-35k / 25-45k | Small V-berth | Very easy, very light | Lighter, simple, older layouts |
| Corsair F-28 | 8.5 m | ~1,350 kg | 2.57 / 5.82 m | 0.36 m | 35-60 min | 35-60k / 40-70k | Roomier, basic | Strong tow needed | Newer, more comfort |
| Dragonfly 800 | 8.0 m | ~1,200 kg | 2.54 / 5.80 m | 0.40 m | 30-60 min | 28-45k / 30-50k | Clever layout | SUV or van OK | Swing Wing folding, vintage feel |
| Dragonfly 25 | 7.65 m | 1,150 kg | 2.30 / 5.80 m | 0.35 m | 30-60 min | 50-90k / 55-100k | Modern, 2-4 berths | Easiest to trailer | Modern, light, easy setup |
| Corsair 760 | 7.4 m | ~950 kg | 2.50 / 5.50 m | 0.30 m | 30-50 min | 70-110k / 75-120k | Best Corsair comfort | Easy, modern trailer | Pop-top, modern, few used |
| Dragonfly 28 | 8.75 m | 1,950 kg | 2.54 / 6.50 m | 0.40 m | 40-60 min | 120-180k / 130-200k | Most comfortable | Needs large tow car | Standing headroom, most space |
All prices are approximate, 2024. Add 200-400 kg for gear, outboard, and trailer.
Who Should Pick What? – Choosing the Right Trailerable Trimaran
Farrier F-27
Best for: Sailors who value sailing performance, classic design, and a large owner community.
Choose the F-27 if:
- You want a proven design that is fast and fun.
- You plan to trailer often and want easy launch and storage.
- You are fine with basic comfort.
- DIY maintenance is OK for you.
- You like a lot of owner knowledge and parts availability.
Skip it if you want standing headroom or a modern interior.
Corsair F-24
Best for: Minimalists, racers, and sailors who want the lightest and easiest-to-tow trimaran.
Choose the F-24 if:
- You want the easiest towing and storage.
- Budget is tight, but you want a robust trimaran.
- Short day sails and regattas are your main use.
Skip it if you want interior space or overnight comfort for more than two.
Corsair F-28
Best for: Sailors seeking F-27 performance with more comfort and modern features.
Choose the F-28 if:
- You want a roomier, newer trimaran.
- You want to take family or crew on short trips.
Skip it if you want lower weight or a classic feel.
Dragonfly 800
Best for: Fans of classic European trimarans and those who appreciate clever layouts.
Choose the DF800 if:
- You like Dragonfly but want to keep costs down.
- You enjoy day trips, club racing, and coastal hops.
Skip it if you want a simple folding system or modern features.
Dragonfly 25
Best for: Newcomers who want a modern feel, easy setup, and some comfort for a small family or couple.
Choose the DF25 if:
- You want easy trailer sailing with modern features.
- You plan weekend trips and occasional longer cruises.
Skip it if you want a bigger interior or the lowest price.
Corsair 760
Best for: Sailors looking for a balance of modern design, sporty performance, and trailering ease.
Choose the Corsair 760 if:
- You want the latest technology and amenities.
- You plan to both race and cruise.
Skip it if you want a classic feel or a bargain.
Dragonfly 28
Best for: Those wanting maximum comfort, real cruising, and who can tow two tons.
Choose the DF28 if:
- You plan extended time aboard.
- Comfort, headroom, and dry sailing are priorities.
- You have a large tow car and big budget.
Skip it if you plan frequent solo trailering or want a light boat.
Quick Reference Table
| Model | Best for | Why pick it | Why not |
|---|---|---|---|
| F-27 | Performance, community | Proven, fast, easy | Basic comfort |
| F-24 | Minimalists, racers | Lightest, easy tow | Smallest interior |
| F-28 | Small families, upgrades | Roomy, newer | Heavier, more expensive |
| DF800 | Classic fans | Vintage, clever layout | Folding, few used |
| DF25 | Modern beginners | Easy, comfortable | Cost, still compact |
| Corsair 760 | Versatility | Sporty, modern, pop-top | Price, rare used |
| DF28 | Comfort cruising | Most space, headroom | Heavy, big tow needed |
Used Market and Buying Tips
All boats: Check folding mechanisms, amas (floats), rigging, sails, and trailers carefully. Look for soft spots, old rigging, worn trampolines, tired outboards. Paperwork can be tricky with imports – always check VIN/chassis numbers.
Corsair/Farrier: Parts availability is good, especially in the US. Manuals and owner resources are everywhere. Budget for refits (rigging, sails, trailer).
Dragonfly: Quorning Boats still supports old models, but parts can be expensive. The folding system is robust but check all moving parts. Watch for possible deck delamination in older boats.
Owner Quotes and Community Tips
“My F-27 was the best intro to multihull sailing. Quick to set up, light on the helm, forgiving. I did my first 300-mile cruise on it with no regrets.”
“Dragonfly 800 has the most charm, but if you want to cruise with the family, the DF28 is hard to beat.”
“If you want to trailer every weekend, lighter is better. The F-24, F-27, and DF25 are much easier to handle than the big DF28.”
“Expect to invest in new sails and rigging for any classic trimaran unless the seller just did a refit.”
Final Thoughts
There is no single best boat. Your decision depends on your priorities:
- If you want performance and price: F-27, F-24, DF800.
- If modern comfort is your goal: DF25, DF28, Corsair 760.
- For classic charm: Dragonfly 800.
- If towing ease matters most: Pick the lightest (F-24, F-27, DF25).
No matter what, these trimarans are fun, safe, and deliver real performance sailing – without marina headaches. Join the owner forums, ask questions, and start your trimaran journey!
Do you own one of these boats? Share your experience below or ask anything you want to know!