ST FRANCIS 50 MK2 - Ready to face every ocean
Building on their experience with the St Francis 44 and 48, the South African manufacturers have launched an even more comfortable and recently improved 50-footer under the name MK2. Though the design might seem quite traditional and the nacelle rather low compared to what is being built in Europe, the St Francis 50 proves to be a very seaworthy catamaran, robust and able to face the worst of the gales. For the interior, the shipyard can meet all the wishes of its customers and ensures an excellent level of finish.
Builder: St Francis Marine
Length: 50’ (15.25 m)
Beam: 26’3” (8.00 m)
Draft: 4’1” (1.25 m)
Displacement: 27,600 lbs (12.5 t)
Mainsail: 943 sq ft (87.6 m²)
Genoa: 570 sq ft (53 m²)
Fuel: 232 US gal (880 l)
Water: 355 US gal (1,350 l)
Price: $ 995,000 ex-tax ready to sail
MC52 - Saloon and cockpit revisited
Test MW164
When she was first presented in 2018 at La Grande Motte, the McConaghy 50 - now the 52 - surprised, impressed, and bewildered. The notions of saloon and cockpit have been revisited in the nacelle: the latter, totally flush at the back, is entirely glazed on the other sides. The elevated navstation is pleasantly surprising by its great ergonomics and efficiency. Congratulations are due for the high-end sailplan and the solution of pivoting daggerboards, an alternative to fixed skegs. Architectural choices used and weight-saving characterize this futuristic model.
Builder: McConaghy Boats
Architects: Ker Yacht Design
Length: 50’2” (15.30 m)
Beam: 26’3” (8.00 m)
Draft: 4’11” or 4’5”/12’4” (1.5 or 1.35/3.75m)
Upwind sail area: 1,615 sq ft (150 m²)
Water: 122 US gallons (460 l)
Fuel: 122 US gallons (460 l)
Motors: 2x57 HP
Price: $ 1,648,000 ex-tax
LEOPARD 50 - The flybridge is a must!
Test MW161
Forerunners with the idea of a forward cockpit, which has since become almost a must-have over the past ten years, architects Simonis & Voogd have optimized the concept and the space aboard this cat which can accommodate up to 5 cabins plus crew. Initially, she was available with or without a flybridge – Leopard 50 L or S. The “with” option constituted 95% of sales, and as a result, the Sport version is no longer offered. The coachroof on the 50 extends forward, protecting the passengers in the forward cockpit – another Leopard feature. This is a successful catamaran that’s comfortable and easy to handle. And has proved to be a commercial success too, with over a hundred examples built so far.
Builder: Robertson & Caine
Length: 50’6” (15.40 m)
Beam: 26’5” (8.04 m)
Light displacement: 45,400 lbs (20.6 t)
Draft: 5’3” (1.60 m)
Mainsail: 972/1,028 sq ft (90.3/95.5 m²)
Genoa: 688 sq ft (63.9 m²)
Motors: 2 x 57 HP 2023
Price: € 689,000 ex-tax
NEEL 51 - High performance and fun to helm
Test MW156
2018 Multihull of the Year Winner
The result of a long reflection and several evolutions, the Neel 51 is now fully developed and is enjoying deserved commercial success. In charter or in private use, this rather sensiblelooking trimaran, that offers incredible interior and exterior volumes, but also performance and behavior, is comparable to the best catamarans. The owner’s cabin on the main deck in the nacelle offers an exclusive view of the seascape.
Builder: NEEL Trimarans
Architects: Joubert/Nivelt
Length: 51’2” (15.60 m)
Beam: 29’2” (8.90 m)
Draft: 5’11” (1.80 m)
Light displacement: 30,865 lbs (14 t)
Mainsail: 1,045 sq ft (97 m²)
Genoa: 800 sq ft (74.5 m²)
Motor: 75 HP
Price: € 749,000 ex-tax
NEW 51 - The replacement for the Saba 50
To find out the name of the long-awaited replacement for the Saba 50, we’ll likely have to wait until early 2022 when the boat is due to be launched (or maybe even a little longer!) The design, as ever, entrusted to Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design, does not herald a new generation - on the contrary, it is very close to the latest models. On the other hand, the 51 does bring a few remarkable innovations, such as the XXL-sized opening between the saloon and the cockpit, four layout versions from 4 to 6 cabins with interesting variations around the owner’s suite, flushdecked solar panels on the coachroof - up to 2,000 W - and finally the possibility of installing a hybrid propulsion system. Under sail, compared to the Saba 50, it will benefit from a longer waterline length and an upwind sail area increased by nearly 10% - but the displacement is up 15%.
Builder: Fountaine Pajot
Architects: Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design
Length: 51 ft (15.54 m)
Beam: 26.5 ft (8.08 m)
Draft: 4.26 ft (1.30 m)
Light displacement: 18.1 t
Mainsail: 1,023 ft² (95 m²)
Genoa: 635 ft² (59 m²)
Motors: 2 x 60/75 HP
Fuel: 2 x 119 US gal (2 x 450 l)
Water: 238 US gal (900 l)
Price: € 834,436 ex-tax
OUTREMER 51 - Double-digit averages
Test MW135
The new version of the best-seller from Outremer Yachting is still evolving with this restyle. With topsides sculpted by Patrick le Quément and inverted bows, the silhouette unambiguously reflects the ambition for performance. Inside, the chart table and galley are more ergonomic and there’s more volume. All the trim and finishes have stepped up a notch. Available in 3 or 4 cabins, the 51 is still as reassuring for a family round the world trip, as she is exhilarating racing around the cans. The yard offers several options to boost performance - carbon bulkheads, rotating mast, lightweight daggerboards, etc.
Builder: Outremer Yachting
Architects: Barreau/Neuman
Length: 51’4” (15.65 m)
Beam: 24’10” (7.57 m)
Light displacement: 24,700 lbs (11.2 t)
Draft: 3’1”/7’9” (0.95/2.35 m)
Mainsail: 980 sq ft (91 m²)
Genoa: 430 sq ft (40 m²)
Spinnaker: 1,722 sq ft (160 m²)
Cabins: 3/4
Water: 113 US gal (430 l)
Fuel: 113 US gal (430 l)
Motors: 2 x 50 HP
Price: € 830,000 ex-tax
HH50 - Style and performance
Test MW175
Her carbon/epoxy sandwich construction uses thermoformed foams to avoid the use of squared foam: this shows the level of care given to this catamaran, which has little to do with mass production. With her steeply inverted bows, curved daggerboards, full equipment, and luxurious interior fittings (all sandwich construction), the HH50 is missing nothing found on her bigger sisterships. Built in China, these high-end multihulls are aimed at an enlightened clientele looking for exclusivity, style, and exceptional performance. This model is also available in a clever version called the Ocean Series. While the lines drawn by the talented Morelli- Melvin team remain the same, fiberglass replaces carbon for the hulls; mast and boom are made of aluminum; and the curved daggerboards give way to sensible fixed skegs.
Builder: HH Catamarans
Architects: Morrelli/Melvin
Length: 51’10” (15.79 m)
Beam: 24’5” (7.44 m)
Draft: 5’5”/10’10” or 5’1” (1.65/3.30 m or 1.56 m)
Light displacement: 25,350/28,990 lbs (11.5/13.15 t)
Mainsail: 873 sq ft (81.13 m²)
Solent: 407 sq ft (37.8 m²)
Spi: 1,453 sq ft (135.5 m²)
Motors: 2 x 40 HP
Price: $ 1,830,000 ex-tax
ANDAMAN 50 - Nothing superfluous here
Test MW174
The Catathai shipyard in Thailand has made a specialty of building seaworthy boats, that are simple, easy to operate and to maintain. This is the case of this Andaman 50 designed by Fortabat Yacht Design. Aboard this beautiful catamaran, the weight centering has been optimized, and the sleek sail plan offers good performance. The objective is to sail, even in light airs, while maintaining a load capacity suited to cruising. Reliability is increased with a propeller shaft transmission. The shipyard also offers a hybrid powertrain.
Builder: Catathai
Length: 52’ (15.85 m)
Beam: 26’7” (8.10 m)
Draft: 4’9” (1.45 m)
Light displacement: 20,950 lbs (9.5 t)
Mainsail: 950 sq ft (88.3 m²)
Jib: 443 sq ft (41.2 m²)
Gennaker: 1,345 sq ft (125 m²)
Cabins: 2/3/4
Water: 264 US gal (1,000 l)
Fuel: 185 US gal (700 l)
Motors: 2 x 42/55 HP
Price: € 460,000 ex-tax
LAGOON 52 - Aft-set mast and loads of comfort
Test MW130
This was the first model in the latest Lagoon generation! The 52, launched in 2012 at the same time as the 39, was indeed the initiator of the mast being moved back onto the coachroof. Structurally, the challenge is not an easy one. But on the other hand, there are many advantages: a shorter mainsail, better centered weight therefore less pitching, less compression with more open shroud angles (therefore smaller and lighter profile), shorter boom for simpler gybes and easier reefing, larger and more versatile headsails, efficient self-tacking jib... The 52 is manageable as a family: in terms of size, she represents the limit. Originally launched in a Flybridge (F) version, this model was supplemented from 2016 by a SporTop (S) version with a raised helm station.
Builder: Lagoon
Architects: VPLP
Design: Nauta Design
Length: 52’ (15.85 m)
Beam: 28’3” (8.60 m)
Draft: 4’11” (1.50 m)
Displacement: 48,610 lbs (22.5 t)
Mainsail: 1,044/1,152 sq ft (97/107 m²)
Jib: 635 sq ft (59 m²)
Code 0: 1,636 sq ft (152 m²)
Spi: 2,744 sq ft (255 m²)
Motors: 2 x 57/80 HP
Water: 253 US gal (960 l)
Diesel: 262 US gal (992 l)
Price: € 727,700 ex-tax
BLUE WATER 50 MK3 - A very British catamaran…
Renamed Bluewater, the Discovery catamaran range remains in the so-British spirit... But the next model announced is much more modern with more fluid lines and large hull windows. The forward recess of the coachroof has been well thought out: you’ll be well sheltered there, and just in front, as with the previous model, you can enjoy a jacuzzi (at least at anchor or in port). The manufacturer guarantees reliability and robustness. The mid-height helm station allows easy sail maneuvering, even when singlehanded.
Builder: Discovery Yachts
Length: 52’2” (15.90 m)
Beam: 25’11” (7.90 m)
Draft: 4’7” (1.40 m)
Displacement: 50,700 lbs (23 t)
Mainsail: 755 sq ft (70 m²)
Solent: 440 sq ft (41 m²)
Genoa: 720 sq ft (67 m²)
Water: 182 US gal (690 l)
Fuel: 325 US gal (1,230 l)
Motors: 2 x 57 HP
Price: £ 1,555,000 ex-tax
BALANCE 526 - One helm station, two positions!
Test MW164
Four years after it was first launched, Seawind’s flagship catamaran has undergone some particularly significant upgrades: the height of the nacelle has been raised by 2” (5 cm) to improve passage through bigger seas, the platform is more rigid, yet lighter, thanks to the addition of carbon reinforcing, and the hulls have been widened by 4” (10 cm) to increase the load capacity and... the width of the berths. The starboard forecabin even has an additional folding bunk and extra storage space. Windows in the hulls have been enlarged, with blinds now recessed, and the finish is in light oak. The 1600 Passagemaker now uses a more energy-efficient and lighter (450 lbs/200 kg lighter) 24 V electrical system as standard. On deck, it is the new anchoring system on the longitudinal spar that really catches your eye: it has been optimized to facilitate handling the ground tackle, limit the risk of entanglement of any equipment on the anchor itself and to improve weight centering.
Builder: Seawind Catamarans
Length: 51’8” (15.74 m)
Beam: 26’7” (8.10 m)
Light displacement: 28,980 lbs (13.6 t)
Draft: 2’/8’6” (0.60/2.60 m)
Mainsail: 1,076 sq ft (100 m²)
Genoa: 479 sq ft (44.50 m²)
Gennaker: 995 sq ft (92.5 m²)
Motors: 2 x 57 HP
Fuel: 198 US gal (750 l)
Water: 174 US gal (658 l)
Price: $ 1,059,000 ex-tax
SEAWIND 1600 PASSAGEMAKER - Reviewed, updated, improved!
Test MW1519
Four years after it was first launched, Seawind’s flagship catamaran has undergone some particularly significant upgrades: the height of the nacelle has been raised by 2” (5 cm) to improve passage through bigger seas, the platform is more rigid, yet lighter, thanks to the addition of carbon reinforcing, and the hulls have been widened by 4” (10 cm) to increase the load capacity and... the width of the berths. The starboard forecabin even has an additional folding bunk and extra storage space. Windows in the hulls have been enlarged, with blinds now recessed, and the finish is in light oak. The 1600 Passagemaker now uses a more energy-efficient and lighter (450 lbs/200 kg lighter) 24 V electrical system as standard. On deck, it is the new anchoring system on the longitudinal spar that really catches your eye: it has been optimized to facilitate handling the ground tackle, limit the risk of entanglement of any equipment on the anchor itself and to improve weight centering.
Builder: Seawind Catamarans
Length: 51’8” (15.74 m)
Beam: 26’7” (8.10 m)
Light displacement: 28,980 lbs (13.6 t)
Draft: 2’/8’6” (0.60/2.60 m)
Mainsail: 1,076 sq ft (100 m²)
Genoa: 479 sq ft (44.50 m²)
Gennaker: 995 sq ft (92.5 m²)
Motors: 2 x 57 HP
Fuel: 198 US gal (750 l)
Water: 174 US gal (658 l)
Price: $ 1,059,000 ex-tax
CATANA 53 - Serious cruising, luxury and performance
Test MW163
The Catana 53 marked the great comeback of this iconic brand into the world of high-performance cruising; so much so that all the other models have now disappeared from the catalog, with the exception of the all-new Ocean Class, of course... The nacelle of the 53 extends a little longer than the “traditional” models, offering a more floor area and a modular saloon/ cockpit connection. The hulls remain fairly narrow; the anti-leeway plan comprises curved appendages. Ultimately, excellent performance for such a comfortable and versatile boat.
Builder: Catana
Length: 53’ (16.15 m)
Beam: 28’5” (8.65 m)
Light displacement: 31,965 lbs (14.5 t)
Draft: 4’10”/9’10” (1.48/3.00 m)
Mainsail: 1,076 sq ft (100 m²)
Genoa: 700 sq ft (65 m²)
Water: 211 US gal (800 l)
Fuel: 227 US gal (860 l)
Motors: 2 x 60 HP
Price: €1,590,000 ex-tax
X5 PLUS - Ready to take you... wherever you want to go
Derived directly from the X5, the Plus retains an unconventional silhouette that may dissuade some from going beyond appearances... but that would be a shame: those frightened off would be missing out on a beautiful cruising machine with intelligent specifications. This new model benefits from the experience gained during 6 years of the X5: the bows have been modified, the displacement is lighter by two tons, the sail plan has increased in area and the equipment is even more complete. The X5 Plus is perfectly suited to the cruising families that have chosen it. Rigorous design by a team of experienced sailors (the seas off South Africa are an excellent learning environment), meticulous construction, exemplary deck plan, abundant and perfectly functional equipment, remarkable overall quality of execution, tempered glass skylights: these are the strong points of this catamaran that deserves to be recognized.
Builder: Xquisite Yachts
Naval architect: Rudolf Jonker
Length: 54’ (16.15 m)
Beam: 26’3” (8.00 m)
Draft: 4’5” (1.35 m)
Displacement: 35,275 lbs (16 t)
Mainsail: 1,130 sq ft (105 m²)
Jib: 420 sq ft (39 m²)
Genoa: 720 sq ft (67 m²)
Gennaker: 1,400 sq ft (130 m²)
Price: US$ 1,700,000
MAJESTIC 530 - Regularly optimized
The Majestic 530 was designed on the basis of the very popular 500. The extra meter (3’) of length benefits the sugarscoops and cockpit, of course but also average speed. Though the overall lines of this model reflect a little of the current production trends, such as like the very raked bows, in use this in an extremely safe, robust and perfectly finished catamaran. And a host of small details, such as ventilation, have been finetuned to the extreme. Keeping very up to date, the manufacturer regularly makes modifications to improve comfort and handling.
Builder: Royal Cape Catamarans
Length: 53’3” (16.23 m)
Beam: 28’3” (8.60 m)
Draft: 4’7” (1.40 m)
Light displacement: 44,000 lbs (20 t)
Mainsail: 974 sq ft (90.5 m²)
Genoa: 756 sq ft (70.3 m²)
Motors: 2 x 80 HP
EOS 54 - Simplicity and performance
Test MW153
Christophe Barreau’s mark is clearly evident on the Eos 54. This catamaran demonstrates the fundamentals dear to the Parisian architect and sailor: simplicity, taut lines, reduced nacelle size and superlative performance... The Eos is aimed at an informed audience of sailors - those who love lively wakes. But this model also knows how to be welcoming with a simple and neat interior. A multifaceted cruising catamaran, yet one which is capable of surprising top speeds under gennaker or spinnaker in upper medium conditions. The standard model is now called the EOS 54 C, while the builder is now offering a very lightweight version, the EOS 54 R.
Builder: EOS Catamaran
Length: 54’ (16.45 m)
Beam: 27’10” (8.48 m)
Light displacement: 30,425/19,180 lbs (13.8/8.7 t)
Draft: 4’3”/10’ (1.30/3.05 m)
Mainsail: 1,087 sq ft (101 m²)
Genoa: 690 sq ft (64 m²)
Motors: 2 x 55 HP
Price: € 929,000 ex-tax
Innovation and respect for the environment
The Windelo 54 is the big sistership to the 50. Only slightly heavier, but with significantly more canvas, the yard promises 20 knots. This Christophe Barreau design features a very aft-set nacelle – yet open to the cockpit – and a helm station set forward. The 54 will be available with fixed keels or daggerboards. As with the 50, three versions are being offered by Windelo: the Adventure is designed for exploration and discovery, the Sport optimizes speed while the Yachting emphasizes comfort. In every aspect, materials, construction processes and engines are designed to reduce the impact on the environment.
Builder: Windelo
Length: 54’ (16.46 m)
Beam: 26’2” (7.98 m)
Light displacement: 28,220 lbs (12.8 t)
Draft: 3’5”/7’9” or 5’3” (1.05/2.35 m or 1.60 m)
Mainsail: 1,055 sq ft (98 m²)
Genoa: 484 sq ft (45 m²)
Gennaker: 1,819 sq ft (169 m²)
Water: 105 US gal (400 l)
Fuel: 145 US gal (550 l)
Motors: 2 x 24 kW - Berths: 12
EAGLE CLASS 53 - Foils and rigid semi wing
Test MW170
2020 Multihull of the Year Winner
After a long period of development, the Eagle Class 53 caused a sensation at the Annapolis Boat Show in 2019... and rightly so: with this extraordinary catamaran, the American shipyard Fast Forward Composites meets the specifications of an enlightened amateur and has conquered the developments of the flying-tightrope catamarans of the last America’s Cup. In terms of innovations: the Hybrid Wing, a rigid semi-wing, developed by Randy Smith - this is composed of an initial carbon profile rotating 360 degrees and a fully-battened mainsail. Foils are of course on the list. To remain light, the facilities are in line with aeronautical standards. During our test in Rhode Island, Gwen Dorning (almost) got the machine in the air for us!
Builder: Fast Forward Composites
Length: 54’2” (16.50 m)
Beam: 27’11” (8.50 m)
Light displacement: 13,230 lbs (6 t)
Draft C foils: 17”/10 ‘(0.42/3.05 m)
Draft T foils: 24»/9’6” (0.61/2.90 m)
Mainsail: 1,290 sq ft (120 m²)
Genoa: 580 sq ft (54 m²)
Water: 2 x 33 US gal (2 x 125 l)
Fuel: 2 x 39 US gal (2 x 150 l)
Motors: 2 x 29 HP
KC54 - Promising first sail
2022 Multihull of the Year Nominee
Following on from the very successful KC62, Kinetic Catamarans has just launched a particularly racy 54-footer. This new model sees the sail handling station in the same position as her bigger sister – in the forward cockpit. She also features the forward door. The fineness of the hulls gives exceptional performance. As for the strongly inverted bows, these show evidence of recent evolutions in offshore racing… The ambition of the KC54 is precisely to offer the speed of a racer while maintaining the ease of handling of a comfortable cruiser… A challenge that’s been taken up, according to the first assessment of our journalist Dominic Salander, who was able to sail the 54 in Annapolis. Test to appear in a forthcoming issue.
Builder: Kinetic Catamarans
Length: 54’2” (16.50 m)
Beam: 27’11” (8.50 m)
Displacement: 35,825 lbs (16.25 t)
Draft: 4’7”’/10’2” (1.40/3.10 m)
Mainsail: 979/1,100 sq ft (91/102 m²)
Solent: 613/645 sq ft (57/60 m²)
Water: 264 US gal (1,000 l)
Fuel: 264 US gal (1,000 l)
Motors: 2 x 80 HP
Price: € 2,368,650 ex-tax
LAGOON 55 - Successor to the very first Lagoon
Test MW178
2022 Multihull of the Year Nominee
34 years after the launch of the Lagoon 55, the brand’s very first model, the builder who has become the world leader in cruising multihulls is (re)launching a 55... Quite a challenge, but above all an opportunity to measure the incredible evolutions in terms of comfort and ergonomics that separate the two models. The displacement is not the same (it has doubled), nor is the program - we’ve gone from a fast cruising and charter catamaran to a palace for demanding owners, most often managed by a professional crew.
Builder: Lagoon
Length: 54’4” (16.56 m)
Beam: 29’6” (9.00 m)
Draft: 5’1” (1.55 m)
Air draft: 96’7” (29.43 m)
Light displacement: 61,070 lbs (27.70 t)
Mainsail: 1,151 sq ft (107 m²)
Solent: 796 sq ft (74 m²)
Water: 252 US Gal (960 l)
Fuel: 290 US Gal (1,100 l)
Motors: 2 x 80/115 HP
Price: € 1,139,300 ex-tax
C-CAT 56 - Blue water cruising with Italian class
The very elaborate design of the coachroof and hull windows, added to the two-color upholstery, sets the tone: Enrico Contreas and Marco Amadio are offering us a chic, elegant and deliberately Italian catamaran! But beyond her flattering appearance, the C-Cat 56 is a light and well-canvassed offshore catamaran: performance will be good. The emphasis has been placed on comfort at sea and ease of handling. Like the C-Cat 62, the helm stations are integrated on the sides of the coachroof. The saloon benefits from beautiful overhead windows. The large sliding door between the cockpit and the interior creates a truly open and protected space, virtually eliminating the notion of inside/outside.
Builder: C-Catamarans
Length: 54’5” (16.60 m)
Beam: 24’7” (7.50 m)
Draft: 4’1”/8’2” (1.25/2.50 m)
Air draft: 75’5” (23.00 m)
Displacement: 29,760 lbs (13.5 t)
Mainsail: 1,130 sq ft (105 m²)
Solent: 700 sq ft (65 m²)
Code 0: 1,250 sq ft (116 m²)
Motors: 2 x 60 HP
OUTREMER 55 - Design, pleasure and performance
Test MW177
2022 Multihull of the Year Nominee
This new 55 will sit between the Outremer 51 and the 5X in the range. At the helm of the project is the “dream team” that has built the latest models, namely the triumvirate of Patrick Le Quément, Marc Van Peteghem and Franck Darnet. The coachroof is the result of innovative aesthetic research with large, glazed areas on the sides and a large vertical opening forward, that is concealed by rounded uprights. The mast is stepped on the coachroof in order to ensure optimum weight centering. The two helm stations are equipped with movable steering wheels and provide excellent visibility over the water and - on each side - comfortable seating for two people. The cockpit enjoys the protection of a light but well-covered bimini. At the stern, a wide bench seat allows you to make the most of the table, which is itself set back. As for the nacelle, this is home to a large galley with a central island and a forward-facing chart table. The Outremer 55, light and well-canvassed is capable of good speeds under sail - including upwind, closehauled thanks to her deep daggerboards – from just 5 knots of wind.
Builder: Outremer Yachting
Architect: VPLP
Length: 54’11” (16.73 m)
Beam: 27’ (8.22 m)
Displacement: 30,645 lbs (13.9 t)
Draft: 4’6”/7’7” (1.36/2.3 m)
Air draft: 80’9” (24.6 m)
Mainsail: 1,120 sq ft (104 m²)
Genoa: 730 sq ft (68 m²)
Gennaker: 1,507 sq ft (140 m²)
Motors: 2 x 60 HP
Price: € 1,350,000 ex-tax
HH55 - Curved daggerboards and carbon mast
This Morelli-Melvin signed HH55, a sport/luxury catamaran has a sharp design that reflects the desired level of performance. Nothing has been left to chance… with curved daggerboards, carbon steering wheels, mast and boom, it clearly displays the program. The central helm option, just behind the mast foot cockpit, is able to seduce customers familiar with this type of craft, as well as exceptional interior woodwork.
Builder: HH Catamarans
Length: 54’11” (16.74 m)
Beam: 26’7” (8.10 m)
Light displacement: 32,410 lbs (14.7 t)
Draft: 4’3”/10’10” (1.30/3.30 m)
Mainsail: 1,260 sq ft (117 m²)
Genoa: 720 sq ft (67 m²)
Gennaker: 188.8 m² (2,032 sq ft)
Motors: 2 x 57 HP
Price: € 2,650,000 ex-tax
BALI 5.4 - Much better than at home!
Test MW164
Gagnant Multihull of the Year 2019
On the largest of the Balis, we find the XXL-version of everything that has characterized the brand since its inception. The saloon-cockpit unit becomes a spacious marine terrace thanks to the opening of the big overhead door. The deck extends all the way to the bows, offering an exceptional “tanning area” that is accessible directly from the saloon via a watertight door. The size of this multihull makes it possible to accommodate up to six cabins in the hulls, a must for the charter market. Let’s bet that the spaces and equipment “just like at home” will also win over some private owners. The performance of this giant remains surprising: reasonably loaded, it goes very well upwind by just coming off the wind a little.
Builder: Bali Catamarans
Length: 55’1” (16.80 m)
Beam: 28’8” (8.74 m)
Draft: 4’10” (1.48 m)
Light displacement: 45,855 lbs (20.8 t)
Mainsail: 1,022 sq ft (95 m²)
Solent: 645 sq ft (60 m²)
Cabins: 4/5/6
Water: 317 US gal (1,200 l)
Fuel: 317 US gal (1,200 l)
Motors: 2 x 57/80 HP
Price: € 998,500 ex-tax
EXPLOCAT 52 - The ice or the tropics?
Test MW147
2021 Multihull of the Year Winner
Specialists in aluminum centerboarders for blue water cruising and expedition work, Garcia Yachts are applying their Exploration concept to two hulls with a robust catamaran, but with a controlled weight for interesting performance. It will be good to challenge the ice from the interior watchkeeping/helm station. In the saloon/galley area, a stove is even provided. The insulation is designed for withstanding high latitude sailing and extreme conditions. The aft cockpit is particularly well protected. As for the ergonomics of the sailing maneuvers, it has been carefully designed to be able to handle wearing slippers, whatever the weather.
Builder: Garcia Yachts
Architect: Pierre Delion
Length: 55’7” (16.95 m)
Beam: 26’11” (8.20 m)
Draft: 4’11” (1.50 m)
Light displacement: 41,000 lbs (18.6 t)
Mainsail: 1,152 sq ft (107 m²)
Genoa: 646 sq ft (60 m²)
Cabins: 3/4 Water: 174 US gal (660 l)
Fuel: 2 x 145 US gal (2 x 550 l)
Motors: 2 x 60 or 75 HP
Price: € 1,366,744 ex-tax
ORC 57 - Marc Lombard – new at Marsaudon Composites!
At Marsaudon Composites, the TS becoming ORC is not all that’s new... the yard is working on the launch of an ambitious new 57-foot model. While remaining faithful to the DNA of her smaller sisters, the ORC 57 is this time designed by Marc Lombard – the two previous model shaving been by Barreau/Neuman. Very light but habitable, the 57 promises exceptional performance. This model will fulfil the requirements of crews infatuated by speed, by offshore racing and also by high-end charter.
Builder: Marsaudon Composites
Length: 56’1” (17.10 m)
Beam: 29’6” (9.00 m)
Light displacement: 24,900 lbs (11.3 t)
Mainsail: 1,150 sq ft (107 m²)
Genoa: 905 sq ft (84 m²)
Berths (standard version): 8
CE Category: A
Price: € 1,085,000 ex-tax
MAJESTIC 570 FLY - XXL Flybridge… or not
2022 Multihull of the Year Nominee
Announced at the 2019 Annapolis Boat Show, Majestic’s flagship is now ready to sail. This catamaran retains a very classic design with cleverly angled bows and multi-tiered superstructures - however you can have one without the giant flybridge. That said, the builder hasn’t skimped on the hull openings and hatches: the sea is visible everywhere and ventilation is provided from the first breath of air. The builder can fit out up to six cabins on board and offers numerous customization possibilities. The 570 comes standard with a plethora of equipment: she is ready for a round-the-world trip as soon as she has splashed!
Builder: Royal Cape Catamarans
Length: 57’ (17.38 m)
Beam: 28’3” (8.60 m)
Light displacement: 51,800 lbs (23.5 t)
Draft: 4’7” (1.40 m)
Mainsail: 1,162 sq ft (108 m²)
Genoa: 818 sq ft (76 m²)
Motors: 2 x 80 HP
Fuel: 2 x 158 US gal (2 x 600 l)
Water: 264 US gal (1,000 l)
PRIVILEGE SIGNATURE 580 - Forward door and private access for the owner’s cabin
Test MW178
2022 Multihull of the Year Nominee
The big sistership to the 510 is the Signature 580. The family resemblance is clear at first glance: the design team is the same. Aboard this luxury catamaran, an Atlantic crossing becomes a walk in the park, or almost... Our test highlighted the care given to the finish, the quality of the equipment but also the ease of maneuvering. Even though the owner’s cabin is no longer in the central rostrum, it benefits from private access to the forward cockpit, which in line with current trends also enjoys direct access to the saloon.
Builder: Privilège Marine
Length: 58’9” (17.90 m)
Beam: 30’1” (9.18 m)
Draft: 5’9” (1.75 m)
Light displacement: 63,935 lbs (29 t)
Mainsail: 1,300 sq ft (121 m²)
Genoa: 990 sq ft (92 m²)
Cabins: 3/4
Water: 264 US gal (1,000 l)
Fuel: 264 US gal (1,000 l)
Motors: 2 x 75 HP
Price: € 2,040,000 ex-tax
HH60 - Deep daggerboards and an extra-wide cockpit
This latest HH project from Morrelli & Melvin retains the same silhouette of the other models in the range while affirming its ambitions in terms of performance: displacement remains modest and is associated with a powerful rig - this culminates at 94½ feet (28.78 meters) above the water... Upwind, the daggerboards can push the draft down to just over 13 feet (4.00 m): we suspect that upwind course-keeping will be exceptional. The deck layout has two particularities: firstly, a cockpit that is as wide as it is streamlined, and secondly, twin helm and maneuvering stations at mid-height. The protection of the area is ensured by three small independent biminis or one larger, more enveloping one.
Builder: HH Catamarans
Length: 58’11” (17.95 m)
Beam: 26’8” (8.12 m)
Light displacement: 34,175 lbs (15.5 t)
Draft: 4’3”/13’1” (1.30/4.00 m)
Mainsail: 1,509 sq ft (140 m²)
Solent: 750 sq ft (70 m²)
Motors: 2 x 57 HP
Price: € 2,750,000 ex-tax
SLYDER 59 - Racy and luxurious
Announced early 2019, the Slyder 59 – the big sistership of the 49 – has set our dreams in motion. The pure lines, combined with deep curved and asymmetrical daggerboards and a generous sail plan, augur well for great performance, especially since the light displacement remains well under 20 tons. The builder has chosen a raised sail maneuvering console and a sunbathing area, but not a real flybridge. The interior gives pride of place to natural light. The designers have provided for electric propulsion - the entire electrical system is integrated so as to best manage the load capacity, maintenance and even remote monitoring.
Builder: Slyder Catamarans
Length: 59’ (17.99 m)
Beam: 28’6” (8.68 m)
Draft: 4’3”/8’10” (1.3/2.7 m)
Light displacement: 39,250 lbs (17.8 t)
Mainsail: 1,130 sq ft (105 m²)
Genoa: 721 sq ft (67 m²)
Gennaker: 2,205 sq ft (205 m²)
Motors: 2 x 25 kW
Price: € 1,590,000 ex-tax
60’’ SOLAR SAIL - Optimized for full-comfort blue water cruising
The big sistership of the X5 Plus adopts a relatively conventional design – gone is the big arch around the cockpit. The name Solar reflects the manufacturer’s desire to limit fossil fuel consumption by offering an impressive surface area of solar panels (6 kWp combined with 44 kWh of Lithium-Ion batteries). Some neat touches will improve life when cruising, such as the forward sunbathing area that’s well protected between the coachroof uprights (and equipped with a solar protection if needed), the aft platform equipped with a carbon mini-crane and the large holds and lockers ready to store all the nautical equipment (paddleboards or diving equipment for example). The helm and maneuvering station is elegantly protected by a hard-top, not to mention the rigid handrail that surrounds the entire deck. A semi-custom finish is offered by the manufacturer.
Builder: Xquisite Yachts
Length: 59’1” (18.00 m)
Beam: 29’2” (8.91 m)
Draft: 5’5” (1.65 m)
Light displacement: 60,650 lbs (27.5 t)
Mainsail: 1,356 sq ft (126 m²)
Jib: 969 sq ft (90 m²)
Code D: 2,260 sq ft (210 m²)
Motors: 2 x 110 HP
Price: € 3,000,000 ex-tax
TWO OCEANS 60 FULL CARBON - An all-carbon one off
The Two Oceans Marine shipyard, based in South Africa, builds all kinds of catamarans – powercats, passenger vessels, multiyachts… The selection is so wide that it also includes some particularly exciting units, such as this Full Carbon. In April 2017, Two Oceans Marine launched the M60, a catamaran built entirely of carbon. This particularly exciting model has been designed for high performance cruising. It has also been optimized to remain manageable by a couple. The layout is spacious enough to accommodate up to 8 people.
Builder: Two Oceans Marine
Length: 59’2” (18.03 m)
Beam: 28’9” (8.76 m)
Light displacement: 21,190 lbs (9.61 t)
Draft: 21”/9’ (0.52/2.74 m)
Upwind sail area: 1,809 sq ft (168.1 m²)
Motors: 2 x 38 HP
Price: $ 2,500,000 ex-tax
RAPIDO 60 - The fastest production multihull?
This trimaran was designed with the aim of reconciling performance and comfort. Of course, the living space offered bears no resemblance to catamarans of the same size. The same is true when you compare the Rapido 60 with a NEEL, even a smaller one. Here, the floats remain... simply floats. Only the central hull is fitted out - and the width remains quite contained. Nevertheless, this powerful and incredibly fast unit offers exceptional sailing pleasure and is a joy to helm. The polars even show speeds sometimes exceeding 30 knots, quite a program... This model is now experiencing colossal interest since the crew of La Vagabonde has announced an order for this model!
Manufacturer: Rapido Trimarans
Length: 59’5” (18.10 m)
Beam: 38’5” (11.70 m)
Draft: 2’6” (0.75 m)
Light displacement: 22,050 lbs (10 t)
Mainsail: 1,345 sq ft (125 m²)
Solent: 764 sq ft (71 m²)
Reacher: 1,400 sq ft (130 m²)
Motor: 53 HP
Price: US$ 1,790,000 ex-tax
OUTREMER 5X - High performance guaranteed
Test MW125
For their first collaboration with the Mediterranean shipyard, VPLP have scored very high. Associated with Patrick le Quément for the exterior lines and Darnet Design for the interiors, the architects managed to marry potentially incompatible characteristics: high performance, comfort and space to accommodate a family around the world, ease of operation without a professional crew. The gamble paid off but is still aimed at users who know how to live at high speed, who are competent and available for an immoderate use of the gennaker in medium airs. A combination of sails under which the 5X reveals her maximum potential. This success justifies the fact that this winning team remains at the helm of the manufacturer’s latest projects.
Builder: Outremer Yachting
Length: 59’11” (18.28 m)
Beam: 28’2” (8.58 m)
Draft: 3’11”/8’ (1.2/2.45 m)
Displacement: 32,630 lbs (14.8 t)
Mainsail: 1,345 sq ft (125 m²)
Genoa: 1,980 sq ft (74 m²)
Motors 2 x 75 HP
Price: € 1,495,000 ex-tax
