LEOPARD 45 - The essential lounge version
Test MW156
In 2017, with their 45, Robertson and Caine offered an attractive catamaran: this model satisfies the expectations of charterers or owners who are sensitive to the concept of open spaces. A successful model that continues to evolve: the brand-new Lounge version with a fitted-out flybridge appears very popular, to the point of eclipsing the original configuration During our test, we appreciated the design of the hulls and the seakindly behavior under sail. The forward cockpit, accessible from inside, has become emblematic of the Leopard range: a definite asset for hedonistic sailors - and for all a must at anchor to enjoy life on board. The forward door is also an excellent way to ventilate the saloon in the tropical sun.
Builder: Robertson & Caine
Length: 45’ (13.72 m)
Beam: 24’2” (7.36 m)
Draft: 4’11” (1.50 m)
Light displacement: 32,850 lbs (14.9 t)
Mainsail: 829/817 sq ft (77/75.9 m²)
Genoa: 500 sq ft (46.5 m²)
Spinnaker: 1,505 sq ft (140 m²)
Cabins: 3/4 + port forepeak
Water: 206 US gal (780 l)
Fuel: 185 US gal (700 l)
Motors: 2 x 45 HP
2023 Price: € 549,000 ex-tax
BALI 4.4 - A forward door and maximum deck area
The next Bali, the 4.4, will replace the 4.3 and the older 4.5. In the current range, it will sit between the 4.2 and the 4.6. This new model will feature all the innovations specific to the brand: rigid foredeck, opening windows, tilting saloon/cockpit door and fixed aft platform to optimize the available deck area of 946 sq ft (87.9 m²). The 4.4 also adopts a forward door and a flybridge with a significantly lowered helm station. Inside, 3 or 4 cabins, a large L-shaped galley and a saloon that can accommodate ten people.
Builder: Bali Catamarans
Length: 45’1” (13.75 m)
Beam: 24’3” (7.40 m)
Draft: 3’9” (1.20 m)
Light displacement: 28,200 lbs (12.8 t)
Mainsail: 818 sq ft (76 m²)
Code 0: 797 sq ft (74 m²)
Solent: 452 sq ft (42 m²)
Fuel: 211 US Gal (800 l)
Water: 211 US Gal (800 l)
Motors: 2 x 40 or 57 HP CE Category: Cat A (Pending)
Price: € 483,800 ex-tax
NAUTITECH 46 OPEN - Even more attractive!
Test MW170
Just over two years ago, Nautitech presented a totally redesigned version of their 46 Open, and also their 46 Fly. Usually, manufacturers undertake light restyling fairly often on their models, but it’s a different story here, with the 46: apart from the Marc Lombard hulls, which remain identical - even though the topsides will now feature larger openings - everything else has been redesigned and redrawn. The accommodation and deck layout are therefore new. The rig is now a little more powerful, gaining 2 m² (21½ sq ft) of sail area.
Builder: Nautitech Catamarans
Architect: Marc Lombard
Length: 45’3” (13.79 m)
Beam: 24’9” (7.54 m)
Draft: 4’9” (1.45 m)
Displacement: 23,800 lbs (10.8 t)
Mainsail: 820 sq ft (76 m²)
Jib: 410 sq ft (38 m²)
Motors: 2 x 40 HP
Fuel: 2 x 79 US gal (2 x 300 l)
Water: 2 x 79 US gal (2 x 300 l)
Price: € 516,000 ex-tax
TANNA 47 - The Saona reviewed and updated
Presented for the first time at the Cannes Yachting Festival, the Tanna 47 is a successful and intelligent redesign of the Saona 47. The overall characteristics - rig, displacement and deck layout – all remain identical, but the nacelle has been reworked to feature new furniture with softer angles, larger overhead windows, but most importantly, a new galley – gone is the central island, but there’s now an extra 10.6 cubic feet (300 liters) of storage space. Like the latest models in Fountaine Pajot’s sailing range, the Tanna 47 has a lounger right next to the chart table. A perfect place for the watchkeeper... but also for relaxing. Outside, behind the raised helm station, the lounge area has doubled in size. A large area of solar panels (50 to 100 sq ft / 5 to 9 m²) can be fitted.
Builder: Fountaine Pajot
Architect: Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design
Length: 45’9” (13.94 m)
Beam: 25’3” (7.70 m)
Draft: 3’11” (1.20 m)
Displacement: 32,400 lbs (14.7 t)
Mainsail: 830 sq ft (77 m²)
Genoa: 560 sq ft (52 m²)
Motors: 2 x 50/60 HP
Fuel: 2 x 124 US gal (2 x 470 l)
Water: 2 x 92 US gal (2 x 350 l)
Cabins: 3/4
Price: € 612,921 ex-tax
LAGOON 450S - An unmissable classic…
Test MW145
The Lagoon 450 is the cruising catamaran that has seen the most incredible successful in the history of boating on more than one hull with 746 Fly versions built and a hundred or so examples in the S version now launched. Three years ago now we thought a page was being turned on this (almost) classic silhouette, and that its forward mast and big genoa would be disappearing for good… But no! The SporTop version with the elevated helm station is still in the catalog. Versatile, seaworthy, and robust, is the Lagoon 450 becoming as mythical as her little sistership, the 380.
Builder: Lagoon
Length: 45’10” (13.96 m)
Beam: 25’10” (7.87 m)
Light displacement: 33,000 lbs (15 t)
Draft: 4’3” (1.30 m)
Mainsail: 850/872 sq ft (79/81 m²)
Genoa: 549 sq ft (51 m²)
Code 0: 1,000 sq ft (93 m²)
Cabins: 3/4
Water: 2 x 46 US gal (2 x 175 l)
Fuel: 2 x 137 US gal (2 x 520 l)
Motors: 2 x 45 HP
ST FRANCIS 46 CAT - Much more modern than the 50
Until now, St Francis Marine’s catamarans had been considered to be extremely solid but having a very traditional design, like the St Francis 50 MK2 with her sloping bows, just like her coachroof... The brand-new St Francis 46, announced by the South African builder on July 6th, is a real break from the codes. The design, from renowned architect Anton Du Toit, is undoubtedly the major factor. The surprise is a much higher and generously glazed nacelle, inverted bows, ultra-taut hull lines and maximum openness between the saloon/galley and the cockpit. The builder has even provided a home cinema area. On the other hand, the principle of the raised helm station and bimini has been retained. The St Francis 46 will be available in a three or fourcabin version.
Builder: St Francis Marine
Length: 45’10” (13.98 m)
Beam: 26’3” (8.00 m)
Light displacement: 29,760 lbs (13.5 t)
Draft: 4’1” (1.24 m)
Upwind sail area: 1,250 sq ft (116.2 m²)
Water: 2 x 105 US gal (2 x 400 l)
Fuel: 2 x 92 US gal (2 x 350 l)
Motors: 2 x 40 HP
Price: $ 850,000 ex-tax, ready to sail
LAGOON 46 - The proven aft-set mast!
Test MW163
The mission for the Lagoon 46 was to replace the 450 but ultimately, for the time being anyway, the two models are sharing the very buoyant 45-foot cruising catamaran market sector.... After the Lagoon 39 and 52 (which appeared in 2013), then the 42, 40 and 50, the 46 in turn continued with the aft-set mast. This catamaran has attractive volume and layout; the 46 also ensures good average speeds under sail with a family crew thanks to her modern, tolerant and fun-to-use sail plan. The mainsail/code 0 combination in light airs, and mainsail/solent in a breeze are very effective. If owners manage not to overload her beyond what is reasonable, they’ll be able to take advantage of everything she has to offer!
Builder: Lagoon
Length: 45’11” (13.99 m)
Beam: 26’1” (7.96 m)
Light displacement: 34,750 lbs (15.77 t)
Draft: 4’5” (1.35 m)
Mainsail: 866 sq ft (80.5 m²)
Jib: 500 sq ft (46.5 m²)
Code area 0: 1,185 sq ft (110 m²)
Cabins: 3/4
Water: 2 x 79 US gal (2 x 300 l)
Fuel: 2 x 137 US gal (2 x 520 l)
Motors: 2 x 45/2 x 57 HP
Price: € 513,900 ex-tax
O YACHTS CLASS 4 - Remarkable comfort at sea
Test MW138
During our test of the O Yachts Class 4, we appreciated the rigor of construction and the pleasure under sail. This catamaran, built in Latvia to Erik Lerouge’s design, opens the doors to serious blue water cruising with a boat capable of lining up 300-mile days in remarkable comfort at sea. The yard also offers a 100% carbon structure for an optimized weight, but the standard composite version is already light and efficient.
Builder: O Yachts
Length: 45’11” (13.99 m)
Beam: 24’11” (7.60 m)
Light displacement: 15,875 lbs (7.2 t)
Draft: 4’7” (1.4 m) – fixed skegs or 2’11” (0.9 m) - raised daggerboards
Mainsail: 700/872 sq ft (65/81 m²)
Genoa: 603/785 sq ft (56/73 m²)
Water: 79 US gal (300 l)
Fuel: 105 US gal (400 l)
Motors: 2 x 30 HP
Price: € 498,000 ex-tax
LIGHTWAVE 45 - A very attractive Australian cat
The Australian manufacturers have just moved into a new building and Roger Overell, director and founder of Lightwave, has announced the redesign of their flagship model, the Lightwave 45. While the specifications remain the same, the soon to be available catamaran available will feature inverted bows and a redesigned coachroof with larger openings. The interior is also going to be revised. The construction used – foam/glass/ polyester sandwich with epoxy for the underwater hull – will guarantee excellent structural qualities. Customization is part of the yard’s philosophy. A forthcoming 52-footer is currently in the design stage.
Builder: Lightwave Yachts
Length: 45’11” (14.00 m)
Beam: 23’11” (7.30 m)
Draft (skegs): 4’ (1.20 m)
Displacement: 17,650 lbs (8 t)
Motors: 2 x 55 HP
Fuel: 210 US gal (800 l)
Water: 210 US gal (800 l)
Price: AU$ 958,000 ex-tax
NEEL 47 - Flush-decked owner’s cabin
Test MW166
2020 Multihull of the Year Winner
La Rochelle-based builder Neel presented their brand-new 47 at the 2019 International Multihull Show at La Grande Motte. On board this trimaran designed by Marc Lombard, there’s the generous central space, which merges saloon and cockpit - the in-house name is the Cockloon. The main innovation: the owner’s cabin is located on the same level as the rest of the platform and offers a direct view of the route ahead or the anchorage. The floats fitted out as guest cabins allow the owner and crew to receive friends for short or medium stays or to offer some independence to the children. An intelligent and convincing layout in use. All the technical equipment is grouped in the central hull, below floor level. This means bonuses for space saving, ease of maintenance, reduced and centered weight.
Builder: Neel Trimarans
Length: 46’7” (14.20 m)
Beam: 27’3” (8.30 m)
Light displacement: 23,370 lbs (10.6 t)
Draft: 5’3” (1.60 m)
Mainsail: 755 sq ft (70 m²)
Genoa: 540 sq ft (50 m²)
Staysail: 215 sq ft (20 m²)
Water: 158 US gal (600 l)
Fuel: 79 US gal (300 l)
Motor: 60 HP
Price: € 463,000 ex-tax
EXCESS 15 - Helm stations set outboard on the hulls
Test Special Edition #14
Excess Catamarans is a recent brand of the Beneteau Group, which already owns Lagoon, the world leader in the cruising multihull market. The 15 was unveiled to the public at the 2019 Cannes Yachting Festival - at the same time as the 12. Generously canvassed in her Pulse Line version, and slightly lighter than her Lagoon predecessors, she is equipped with helm stations on the hulls for more direct steering and better centering of the weights (no flybridge). The vocation of the 15 remains comfortable cruising for a sportier clientele. Inside, the volume and design of the raised saloon are very attractive. There is plenty of light in the hulls. We appreciated many of the welcome equipment features, such as the opening targa bimini.
Builder: Excess Catamarans
Length: 46’11’’ (14.31 m)
Beam: 26’4” (8.03 m)
Draft: 4’7” (1.40 m)
Light displacement: 42,000 lbs (19.05 t)
Upwind sail area: 1,657 / 1,776 sq ft (154/165 m²)
Mainsail: 1,065 sq ft (99 m²)
Self-tacking jib: 592 sq ft (55 m²)
Water: 2 x 63 US gal (2 x 240 l)
Fuel: 2 x 137 US gal (2 x 520 l)
Motors: 2 x 57 or 80 HP
Cabins: 3/4/5/6
Price: € 677,500 ex-tax
BALI 4.6 - For charter use and private owners
Test MW176
This new model picks up on the many strong points of the Bali 4.5: tiltand- turn door, blurring the boundary between inside and outside, and maximum exploitation of the available deck area, but pushes the concept even further with the forward cockpit, the fitted-out flybridge and the forward door. Since its launch in the fall of 2020, the Bali 4.6 has seen excellent commercial success, including among private owners, thanks to its four layout versions ranging from 3 to 5 cabins.
Builder: Bali Catamarans
Length: 47’1” (14.36 m)
Beam: 25’2” (7.66 m)
Light displacement: 30,000 lbs (13.6 t)
Draft: 4’ (1.22 m)
Mainsail: 835 sq ft (77.6 m²)
Self-tacking solent: 475 sq ft (44.2 m²)
Motors: 2 x 45/57 HP Price: € 528,860 ex-tax
EOS 48 - A la carte performance
In the same vein as her big sistership the Eos 54, the Eos 48 (formerly 47) should delight lovers of fast cruising. The hulls designed by Marc Lombard are fine, with a sharp design - light turn of the bilges and inverted bows. As for the nacelle, it’s been reduced in length in order to lighten the weight of the platform and limit pitching. The coachroof is extended by a bimini which is perfectly integrated into the silhouette. This catamaran of nearly 48’ (14.50 m) should be available in two versions, Classique or Race. Other choices for the owner: tiller or wheel steering, two to four double cabins, diesel or hybrid engines and finally the possibility of fitting out a cabin/ bathroom in the forepeak for skipper and hostess.
Builder: Eos Catamarans
Length: 47’5” (14.44 m)
Beam: 28’8” (7.52 m)
Draft: 4’11”/9’10” (1.50/3.00 m)
Light displacement: 21,825 lbs (9.9 t)
Mainsail: 895 sq ft (83 m²)
Solent: 655 sq ft (61 m²)
Gennaker: 1,400 sq ft (130 m²)
Spinnaker: 1,885 sq ft (175 m²)
Motors: 2 x 40 HP
Fuel: 2 x 53 US gal (2 x 200 l)
Water: 2 x 53 US gal (2 x 200 l)
Price: € 689,000 ex-tax
OUTREMER 45/4X - Performance and helming pleasure
Tests MW140 & 151
In the Outremer family, the 45 is a mythical catamaran. In her first generation - design by Gérard Danson, she was the ideal cruiser for her generally sporty owners in the early 2000s. The current 45 is a Barreau/Neuman design that is much more habitable than her predecessor. But she retains the Outremer DNA - daggerboards, limited weight and comfortable layouts. The yard also offers the 45 in a higher-performance version: the 4X, more canvas and lighter in weight. A cruising catamaran that offers real pleasure at the helm and high performance while remaining usable by all experienced sailors. Since this fall, a third version has been available: the 4.Zero, designed for renowned sailor Jimmy Cornell, and powered by electric motors.
Builder: Outremer Yachting
Length: 48’ (14.63 m)
Beam: 23’6” (7.15 m)
Light displacement: 19,180/18,080 lbs (8.7/8.2 t)
Draft: 4’1”/7’1” (1.25/2.15 m)
Mainsail: 720 sq ft (67 m²)
Genoa: 420/590 sq ft (39 m²/55 m²)
Gennaker: 1,238 sq ft (115 m²)
Cabins: 3/4 Water: 119 US gal (450 l)
Fuel: 89 US gal (336 l)
Motors: 2 x 30 HP
Price: € 595,000 ex-tax for the 45 / € 765,000 ex-tax for the 4X
DUFOUR 48 - Still a Dufour, but without Dufour
The launch in 2018 of this Dufour catamaran intended for charter was understandably thwarted by the takeover of the yard by Fountaine Pajot... One might have thought that this 48 was going to be consigned to history. But no - Dufour Yachts and the Croatian charter company Under the Heavens signed a sale agreement this summer for JJL Catamarans. The multihull designed by Umberto Felci will therefore still be produced while keeping the Dufour brand. Under the Heavens, which already operates five Dufour 48s, could soon develop a complete range. There will be a full test in a forthcoming issue.
Builder: JJL Catamarans
Length: 48’3” (14.70 m)
Beam: 26’3” (8.00 m)
Draft: 4’3”(1.30 m)
Displacement: 32,960 lbs (14.95 t)
Mainsail: 818 sq ft (76 m²)
Solent: 517 sq ft (48 m²)
Motors: 2 x 50/60 HP
Fuel: 237 US gal (900 l)
Water: 185 US gal (700 l)
Price: € 645,000 ex-tax
BALANCE 482 - Already sailed in the US and South Africa!
2022 Multihull of the Year Nominee
Announced back in 2019, the first example of the Balance 482 was launched this summer in Cape Town, South Africa. This new model was presented in Annapolis, USA, where we got the chance to test it. The 482, designed by Phillip Berman, who we profiled in MW180, and Anton Du Toit and has already shown some remarkable performance in her initial seatrials. This catamaran is proving to be quick in all conditions, including upwind thanks to the daggerboards. The inverted bows lend the boat’s silhouette a very sporty look. The hulls and nacelle have plenty of windows, however the shipyard has decided to go for a coachroof with an overhang to protect the living area from the sun’s most vertical rays. The Versa-Helm system (a double helm thanks to an articulated steering wheel), which was already fitted to the 526 has obviously been included.
Builder: Balance Catamarans
Architects: Phillip Berman & Anton Du Toit
Length: 48’3” (14.71 m)
Beam: 25’11” (7.90 m)
Draft: 3’10”/7’3” (1.16/2.20 m)
Light displacement: 24,945 lbs (11.31 t)
Upwind sail area: 1,433 sq ft (133.1 m2)
Motors: 2 x 45 HP
Fuel: 2 x 106 US gal (2 x 400 l)
Water: 2 x 103 US gal (2 x 390 l)
Price: $ 1,157,310 ex-tax
LAGOON 50 - And the flybridge is a must…
Test Special Edition 14
2018 Mulrihull of the Year Winner
Appearing in 2017 at the same time as the 40, the Lagoon 50 adopted the new Lagoon identity initiated by the 42. The general architecture is still a VPLP design for this catamaran with impressive volumes able to accommodate 4 to 6 cabins. The exterior design benefited from Patrick le Quément’s pencil strokes, which skillfully sculpted the silhouette. The interior, entrusted to Nauta Design, offers neat and seamanlike fittings. The central island that surrounds the mast support strut is questionable in terms of the circulation, but that is the only flaw to be found inside. This is a powerhouse on the 50-foot cruising catamaran market.
Builder: Lagoon
Length: 48’5” (14.75 m)
Beam: 26’7” (8.10 m)
Draft: 4’7” (1.40 m)
Light displacement: 44,000 lbs (19.96 t)
Mainsail: 1,055 sq ft (97.8 m²)
Genoa: 650 sq ft (60.3 m²)
Motors: 2 x 57/80 HP
Price: € 680,800 ex-tax
C-CAT 48 - The Italian builder’s range is expanding…
Of course we know about the C-Cat 37, and now the 62 in the planning stage... but C-Catamarans are working on offering other models, such as the 56, whose molds are currently in production - we’ll be talking about that very soon - and especially the 48, of which the first example has just splashed. This offshore catamaran is as comfortable as it is fast and fun to sail. The announced light displacement, just under 10 tons, promises some beautiful sailing indeed! The design of the coachroof is as simple as it is successful - it integrates a forward hatch just behind the mast. The hulls are narrow, with straight bows, and the boat is equipped with daggerboards. We’ll be testing it in a future issue of Multihulls World.
Builder: C-Catamarans
Length: 48’7” (14.80 m)
Beam: 24’5” (7.30 m)
Light displacement: 21,400 lbs (9.7 t)
Draft: 22”/7’3” (0.57/2.2 m)
Air draft: 55’7” (16.94 m)
Mainsail: 969 sq ft (90 m²)
Genoa: 527/570 sq ft (49/53m²)
Gennaker: 861 sq ft (80 m²)
Water: 79 US gal (300 l)
Fuel: 2 x 34 US gal (2 x 130 l)
Motors: 2 x 35 HP
Price: € 620 000 ex-tax
BALI 4.8 - All the volume of a big 50-footer!
Test MM171
The Bali 4.8 is already the seventh model from the brand – despite them having only been around for 5 years. Of course, it offers all the Bali features - solid foredeck, interior completely free of bulkheads, tilt-and-turn door and huge 220 V refrigerators - and incorporates a forward door as a bonus. The manufacturer offers five versions of layout. There is of course the attractive 3-cabin version with a huge owner’s hull including separate toilet, interior companionway, but also direct access to the starboard transom; and 4 and 5-cabin versions. But where the 4.8 scores highest is by offering for the first time on a multihull under 50 feet… 6 double cabins and 6 private bathrooms.
Builder: Bali Catamarans
Length: 48’9” (14.86 m)
Beam: 25’10” (7.88 m)
Draft: 4’5” (1.35m)
Light displacement: 33,730 lbs (15.3 t)
Mainsail: 925 sq ft (86 m²)
Self-tacking solent: 505 sq ft (47m²)
Fuel: 264 US gal (1,000 l)
Water: 264 US gal (1,000 l)
Motors: 2 X 45 to 57 hp
Price: € 665,700 ex-tax
SOUBISE 49 - A great cruising boat that’ll make you dream...
Philippe Tournier is back on the multihull scene with all his experience, a new team and new boats to build in his Soubise shipyard in France’s Charente-Maritime region. On the program, a Soubise 49 Cruiser and a 56. The new 49 will be lighter and its structure even stronger. The nacelle will now sit more than three feet (one meter) above the water’s surface. Two sail plans – 1,840 or 1,980 sq ft (171 or 184 m²) upwind - are available. With its rotating mast and fiber rigging, this ocean-going machine should go well.
Builder: Tournier Marine
Length: 49’ (14.93 m)
Beam: 28’3” (8.60 m)
Draft: 24” or 37”/8’6” (0.60 or 0.90/2.60m)
Displacement: 18,740/15,430 lbs in the R-version (8.5/7 t)
Mast height: 65’7”/69’7” in R version (20/21.20 m)
Mainsail: 1,100 / 1,215 sq ft in R version (102/113 m²)
Genoa: 645 / 700 sq ft in R version (60/65m²)
Motors: Volvo 2 x 40 HP sail drive
Price: € 800,000 ex-tax/Racing version by quotation
SLYDER 49 - Now available in an electric version
Test MW171
This catamaran is a success… Elegant on the water, the interior style and build quality (carbon/vinylester/foam composite) are to be commended. The Slyder is not lacking in quality. During on test sail, we particularly noted the daily averages, comfort at sea and the overall balance of the platform. The builder is now offering an electric propulsion version. Two 22 kW motors, a 25 kW generator and a global energy management system make the new Slyder 49 E-Power a very innovative catamaran indeed.
Builder: Slyder Catamarans
Architect: B.E. Slyder
Length: 49’1” (14.95 m)
Beam: 25’2” (7.68 m)
Draft: 3’7”/7’3” (1.10/2.20 m)
Displacement: 26,675 lbs (12.1 t)
Mainsail: 970 sq ft (90 m²)
Self-tacking jib: 452 sq ft (42 m²)
Gennaker: 1,485 sq ft (138 m²)
Motors: 2 x 22 kW
Price: € 1,190,000 ex-tax
VAAN R5 - An aluminum catamaran with two sizes of coachroof
In the spirit of their R4, Dutch-based builder Vaan Yachts have announced a new 49-foot catamaran. With construction still in recycled aluminum, this model is built using a maximum of recyclable materials that have sometimes already been recycled themselves, and/or are biosourced. Propulsion is provided by electric motors. The main innovation of the R5 is that there’s an option to choose a short or longer coachroof: the “Life-Aboard” version allows for a saloon of 320 sq ft (30 m²). In good weather, this area can be largely opened up. On the foredeck, you can opt for a lounge space or a large sunbathing area.
Builder: Vaan Yachts
Material: aluminum
Length: 49’ (14.95 m)
Beam: 26’1” (7.94 m)
Draft: 3’11” / 6’7” (1.20/2.00 m) with optional daggerboards
Air draft: 78’1” (23.80 m)
Bridgedeck clearance: 3’ (0.91 m)
Mainsail: 860 sq ft (80 m²)
Self-tacking jib: 485 sq ft (45 m²)
Code 0: 1,290 sq ft (120 m²)
Gennaker: 1,830 sq ft (170 m²)
Motors: 2 x electric saildrives
WAVE 50 - A bold design
2022 Multihull of the Year Nominee
It’s impossible to miss this catamaran: there’s an arch that extends the coachroof all the way to the forestay fitting, bows whose slope is strongly reversed, and huge mirror windows! Agnieszka Bona, responsible for the design of this new boat built in Szczecin, in the northwest of Poland, makes no secret of the fact that the main idea of the Wave 50 project is to be noticed... the famous arch can also disappear if a client wishes. But in the end, this superstructure, however unusual it may be, is not unwelcome - it provides shade to the forward cockpit without obscuring the view of the water from the helm station, which is set very far aft on a cantilevered flybridge. After the surprise of the first visit, you discover a well-designed sail maneuvering station where you aren’t forced to get on your hands and knees to operate the winches. As for the interior, it too is certainly audacious but ultimately attractive. The Wave 50 is available in a power version and a Wave 60 is also offered. Full test in a forthcoming issue.
Builder: Wave Catamarans
Overall length: 49’1” (14.95 m)
Beam: 27’4” (8.34 m)
Draft: 4’9” (1.40 m)
Mainsail: 753 sq ft (70 m²)
Genoa: 743 sq ft (69 m²)
Gennaker: 1,990 sq ft (185 m²)
Spinnaker: 2,370 sq ft (220 m²)
Motors: 2 x 60 HP Volvo Penta D-60
Fuel: 220 US gal (840 l)
Water: 180 US gal (680 l)
CE category: A-12
Price: € 1,000,000 ex-tax
ITA 14.99 - Elegant and quick
Test MW168
Designed to be handled by a couple or with a crew, the 14.99 is an elegant blue water cruising catamaran. It offers a successful modern interior layout and decor. With deep daggerboards, generous sail area and high-tech infused epoxy carbon construction, the 14.99 provides excellent performance, as we were able to verify during our test. This catamaran starts out at the slightest breath of air: the motors (electric or diesel) are only used for port maneuvers or... if there’s absolutely no wind at all.
Builder: Ita Catamarans
Length: 49’2” (14.99 m)
Beam: 25’7” (7.80 m)
Light displacement: 23,150 lbs (10.5 t)
Draft: 1’10”/7’9” (0.57/2.35 m)
Mainsail: 980 sq ft (91 m²)
Jib: 530 sq ft (49 m²)
Gennaker: 1,505 sq ft (140 m²)
Water: 2 x 87 US gal (2 x 330 l)
Fuel: 57 US gal (215 l)
Motors: 2 x 15 kW
Price: € 1,200,000 ex-tax
CATANA OCEAN CLASS - A serious cruising boat
Following two years of design, Catana announced a brand-new 50-foot catamaran, the Ocean Class. Inverted, fine-entry bows; controlled weight thanks to a stratification process in carbon-reinforced infusion and a reduced footprint of the nacelle; a powerful rig and deep daggerboards: this model is indeed a Catana! Performance addicts will be able to choose a carbon mast. For the deck, the builder has opted for a central helm station. Almost a heritage from Bali, the Ocean Class benefits from a bulkhead-free nacelle with three large sliding bay windows with integral reinforcement for enjoying a vast living space, either totally protected or fully open to the outside. Is this new model inaugurating a complete new range? It’s still too early for an answer to that question…
Builder: Catana Catamarans
Architect: Chantier Catana
Length: 49’2” (14.99m)
Beam: 25’8” (7.83 m)
Displacement: 28,000 lbs (12.7t)
Draft daggerboards up: 3’10” (1.17m)
Draft daggerboards down: 8’2” (2.49m)
Mainsail: 970 sq ft (90m²)
Genoa: 690 sq ft (64m²)
Gennaker: 1,400 sq ft (130m²)
Water: 211 US gal (800 L)
Fuel: 211 US gal (800L)
Motors: 2 x 45 or 57 hp
HH44 - Fast cruising in hybrid mode
This new catamaran – the smallest in the HH range – is announced for late 2022. It manages to reconcile a very “performance” vision of cruising (all-carbon construction, a sleek sail plan with a 62’ / 19 m mast, and deep daggerboards) with a hybrid propulsion system. The HH44, with its 3.2 kWp of solar panels, 50.4 kWh of Lithium-Ion batteries and two 10 kW electric motors, is capable of covering 18 nautical miles at 7.5 knots in full electric mode. The catamaran will be equipped with a very efficient hydro-generation system for charging while under sail. Diesel engines give total safety by doubling the means of propulsion. The cockpit has been designed to ensure perfect safety, and when at anchor or in port, the transoms fold down on each side. The twin aft helms pivot inboard or out, and the helm seats can be folded down. All the sail controls are managed from these aft stations: hoisting and reefing the main, furling the headsails, trimming the sheets, as well as setting the position of the daggerboard. Inside, the nacelle is generously airy. The port hull is home to the owner’s suite and the standard of finish throughout is expected to be very high end.
Builder: Hudson Yacht Group
Architect: Hudson Yacht & Marine Ltd.
Length: 49’8” (15.15 m)
Beam: 23.46’ (7.15 m)
Draft: 4.59’/9.84’ (1.40/3.00 m)
Displacement: 20,701 lbs (9.39 t)
Mainsail: 798 sq ft (74.20 m²)
Solent: 550 sq ft (51.1 m²)
Gennaker: 1,603 sq ft (102.93 m²)
Motors: 2 x 30 HP and 2 x 10 kW
Batteries: 50.4 kWh Lithium-Ion
Solar panels: 3.2 kWp
Price: € 1,200,000 ex-tax
SUNREEF 50 - The most luxurious 50-footer
Test MW173
Sunreef is the specialist in custom-made luxury on two hulls - whether sail or power. The 50 may be the smallest in the range, but offers all the benefits of her bigger sisterships in just 15.20 m (50’). The forward cockpit is accessible from the saloon via a large watertight door. As for the aft cockpit, it is transformed into a vast terrace equipped with a hydraulic platform for swimming or for the dinghy. The flybridge is considerable for this size of boat. The interior style is obviously customizable to the customer’s taste. All this obviously comes at a price and a weight (and we would advise going for bigger motors than the standard twin 80 HPs)... but what luxury!
Builder: Sunreef Yachts
Length: 49’10 (15.20 m)
Beam: 29’10” (9.10 m)
Light displacement: 70,500 lbs (32 t)
Draft: 4’11” (1.50 m)
Mainsail: 860 sq ft (80 m²)
Genoa: 850 sq ft (79 m²)
Spinnaker: 2,150 sq ft (200 m²)
Cabins: 5
Water: 211 US gal (800 l)
Fuel: 264 US gal (1,000 l)
Motors: 2 x 80 HP
ORC 50 - Swallows up the miles…
Test MM160
Simplicity at sea is most often a guarantee of speed and peace of mind: to hell with complex systems and fragile interiors! It is in this spirit of happy frugality that the TS5 - now called the ORC 50 - was designed, yet she offers all the necessary comfort. Indeed, there are five double cabins and a salooncockpit layout that’s got everything you’ll find on a ‘full-comfort’ boat. But it’s only when you place your hand on the tiller, and sit in the bucket seat, that you know if you are right for an ORC or not! The quality of construction is impeccable and the weight specifications well-respected. There may be a few less horsepower at the top end of the rev-counter compared to her predecessor, the TS52, but the average speeds are amazing. Other nice surprises include her excellent performance in light airs, the high close-hauled course she can keep, or simply the sensations in medium airs.
Builder: Marsaudon Composites
Length: 50’ (15.23 m)
Beam: 26’10” (8.20 m)
Draft: 5’7”/8’10” (1.70/2.70 m)
Light displacement: 18,960 lbs (8.6 t)
Mainsail: 947 sq ft (88 m²)
Genoa: 645 sq ft (60 m²)
Motors: 2 x 39 HP
Price: € 705,000 ex-tax
KNYSNA 500 SE - A lot of character!
Like the South African port from which it takes its name, the 500 SE has character - Knysna is a splendid city at the head of a bay-lagoon whose entrance is sporty with rough seas. Solidly built to withstand difficult conditions without damage, this catamaran is delivered highly equipped, and customization is the rule. The cockpit saloon is well sheltered, and the semiflybridge helm station has a sunroof that allows the helmsman to be closed in if there’s bad weather. The traditional woodwork of the interior fittings is superb and evokes a neat British style. With great comfort and maintaining a favorable displacement… the yard also offers a Knysna 550.
Builder: Knysna Yacht Company
Architect: Angelo Lavranos
Length: 50’ (15.24 m)
Beam: 26’1” (7.96 m)
Draft: 4’9” (1.44 m)
Displacement: 29,800 lbs (13.5 t)
Mainsail: 807 sq ft (75 m²)
Genoa: 538 sq ft (50 m²)
Water: 158 US gal (600 l)
Fuel: 158 US gal (600 l)
Motors: 2 x 57 HP
PRIVILÈGE SIGNATURE 510 - Ever faithful to that central rostrum
Test MW173
Privilège has launched a new generation of catamarans called Signature. The 510, the first model of this generation, was launched in the spring of 2020. Of course, she includes all the assets that have made the brand’s reputation. Marc Lombard and Darnet Design collaborated on an elegant design, a luminous interior, a beautiful panoramic view from the saloon, and finally the forward cabins offering an unprecedented relationship with the sea. In the three-cabin version, the Owner’s cabin occupies the entire central rostrum traditional to the Sables d’Olonne-based shipyard: this is a must! The midheight helm station centralizes all sailing maneuvers: this is equipped with an elegant and very efficient windshield.
Builder: Privilège Marine
Naval Architect: Cabinet Marc Lombard
Interior designer: Franck Darnet
Length: 50’ (15.24 m)
Beam: 26’2” (7.98 m)
Draft: 5’2” (1.57 m)
Light displacement: 37,000 lbs (16.8 t)
Mainsail: 945 sq ft (88 m²)
Genoa: 614 sq ft (57 m²)
Water: 158 US gal (600 l)
Fuel: 210 US gal (800 l)
Motors: 2 x 55 HP or 2 x 80 HP
Price: € 1,190,000 ex-tax
RAPIDO 50 - The biggest folding trimaran
2022 Multihull of the Year Nominee
The launch of the 60 was enthusiastically received by the specialists, so Rapido Trimarans obviously turned to architects Morrelli and Melvin for a version with folding arms to rationalize docking in the marina. This twin-cabin boat has many of the same elements as her bigger sister. The raised helm station provides excellent visibility while protecting the cockpit. The very pronounced chine above the waterline provides a surprising amount of interior volume without compromising performance, which is always a priority. This innovative multihull, designed by one of the most experienced teams in the world, renews the genre by offering sailors eager for sensations a tool worthy of their requirements.
Builder: Triac Composites
Length: 50’ (15.24 m)
Beam: 18’1”/34’1” (5.50/10.38 m)
Draft: 26”/11’7” (0.67/3.52 m)
Light displacement: 18,080 lbs (8.2 t)
Mainsail: 1,020 sq ft (95 m²)
Genoa: 580 sq ft (54 m²)
Spinnaker: 1,720 sq ft (160 m²)
Cabins: 2 Water: 92 US gal (350 l)
Fuel: 92 US gal (350 l)
Motor: 40 HP
Price: $1,250,000 ex-tax
WINDELO 50 - The first model is keeping its promises
Test Special Issue #16
2022 Multihull of the Year Nominee
Catamaran builder Windelo is based at Canet-en-Rousillon, in the south of France. The shipyard is working with the Barreau/Neuman team to develop a complete range from 45 to 57 feet. For now, the first model, the Windelo 50, was launched last spring. Fast under sail and original with its sail maneuvering station at the foot of the mast, this catamaran is a concentrate of new and convincing ideas. As for the Windelo 54, one is about to be splashed. The yard announces an ecological approach by using basalt fiber and PUT foam (from recycling). Each model is available in three versions - Sport, Adventure and Yachting. The shipyard offers an electric drivetrain as standard.
Builder: Windelo
Length: 50’ (15.24 m)
Beam: 26’ (7.92 m)
Light displacement: 24,700 lbs (11.2 t)
Draft: 5’2” (1.58 m) or 3’5”/7’7” (1.03/2.32 m)
Mainsail: 990 sq ft (92 m²)
Genoa: 462 sq ft (43 m²)
Berths: 12
Water: 105 US gal (400 L)
Fuel: 132 US gal (500 L)
Motors: 2 x 20 kW
Price: from € 795,000 ex-tax
