LEOPARD 45 - A LOUNGE VERSION
TEST in MW156
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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. 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. A successful model that’s now evolving: the all-new Lounge version with fully-equipped flybridge has great appeal!
Builder: Robertson & Caine
Length: 45’ (13.72 m)
Beam: 24’2” (7.36 m)
Light displacement: 32,850 lbs (14.9 t)
Draft: 4’11” (1.50 m)
Mainsail: 796/817 sq ft (74/75.9 m²)
Genoa: 500 sq ft (46.5 m²)
Spinnaker: 1,505 sq ft (140 m²)
Cabins: 3 or 4 + port forepeak
Water: 206 US gal (780 l)
Diesel: 185 US gal (700 l)
Engines: 2 x 45 HP
Price: € 489,000 ex-tax
NAUTITECH 46 OPEN - AS ATTRACTIVE AS EVER!
TEST in MW170
A little over a year 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 (22 sq ft) of sail area
Builder: Nautitech Catamarans
Architect: Marc Lombard
Overall length: 45’3” (13.79 m)
Waterline length: 45’ (13.71 m)
Beam: 24’9” (7.54 m)
Draft: 4’9” (1.45 m)
Displacement: 23,800 lbs (10.80 t)
Mainsail: 820 sq ft (76 m²)
Self-tacking jib: 410 sq ft (38 m²)
Engines: 2 x 40 HP
Diesel: 2 x 79 US gal (2 x 300 l)
Water: 2 x 79 US gal (2 x 300 l)
Price: € 459,600 ex-tax
SAONA 47 - A SAFE AND PROVEN CAT
TEST in MW155
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Between the Elba 45 and the Saba 50, Fountaine Pajot positioned a 47-foot catamaran, the Saona 47. The silhouette is successful and the helm station as practical as it is comfortable. The 47 clearly benefits from the new standard of quality evident on board this latest generation and the creativity of Isabelle Racoupeau, in charge of interior design. The version we tried, with carbon mast, Dyneema rigging and membrane sails is particularly attractive... but even without these luxurious options, the Saona shows interesting speed potential. The seakeeping behavior felt safe: during our test, we took on a Mistral blowing at 50 knots and nothing broke!
Builder: Fountaine Pajot
Length: 45’9” (13.94 m)
Beam: 25’3” (7.70 m)
Light displacement: 32,407 lbs (14.7 t)
Draft: 3’11” (1.20 m)
Mainsail: 829 sq ft (77 m²)
Genoa: 560 sq ft (52 m²)
Cabins: 3 or 4
Water: 185 US gal (700 l)
Diesel: 2 x 124 US gal (2 x 470 l)
Engines: 2 x 50/60 HP
Price: € 542,867 ex-tax
LAGOON 450S - A CLASSIC THAT LASTS...
TEST in MW145
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The Lagoon 450 is the cruising catamaran that has seen the most incredible successful in the history of boating on more than one hull. Two 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 sister, the 380?
Builder: Lagoon
Length: 45’10” (13.96 m)
Beam: 2510” (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 or 4 doubles
Water: 2 x 46 US gal (2 x 175 l)
Fuel: 2 x 137 US gal (2 x 520 l)
Engines: 2 x 45 HP
Price: €415,000 ex-tax
LAGOON 46 - THE PROVEN AFT-SET MAST!
TEST in MW163
The mission for the Lagoon 46 was to replace the 450 - the world’s best-selling cruising catamaran with 746 Flybridge examples and a hundred S versions launched. 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)
Self-tacking jib: 500 sq ft (46.5 m²)
Code area 0: 1,185 sq ft (110 m²)
Cabins: 3 or 4 doubles
Water: 2 x 79 US gal (2 x 300 l)
Diesel: 2 x 137 US gal (2 x 520 l)
Engines: 2 x 45/2 x 57 HP
Price: € 433,000 ex-tax
LIGHTWAVE 45G - A VERY ATTRACTIVE AUSTRALIAN CATAMARAN
NEW
For their 25th anniversary, the Australian manufacturers have just moved into a new building. But this is not the only good news, as Roger Overell, director and founder of Lightwave, has just announced the redesign of their flagship model, the Lightwave 45. While the specifications remain the same, the catamaran available in 2021 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.
Builder: Lightwawe Yachts
Length: 45’11” (14 m)
Beam: 23’11” (7.3 m)
Draft (skegs): 4’ (1.2 m)
Displacement: 17,650 lbs (8 t)
Engines: 2 x 55 HP
Fuel: 210 US gal (800 l)
Water: 210 US gal (800 l)
Price: AU$ 958,000 ex-tax
O YACHTS CLASS 4 - 300 MILLES PAR JOUR !
TEST in 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: 14,770 lbs (6.7 t)
Draft: 4’7” (1.4 m - fixed skegs) or 2’11” (0.9 m - raised daggerboards)
Mainsail: 872 sq ft (81 m²)
Genoa: 795 sq ft (74 m²)
Diesel: 105 US gal (400 l)
Water: 79 US gal (300 l)
Engines: 2 x 30 HP
Price: € 498,000 ex-tax
NEEL 47 - FLUSH-DECKED OWNER’S CABIN
TEST in MW166 - MOTY 2020 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” (8.3 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)
Diesel: 79 US gal (300 l)
Engines: 60 HP
Price: € 449,000 ex-tax
BALI 4.6 - NOT JUST FOR CHARTER
NEW
This new model picks up on the many strong points of the Bali 4.5 - tilt-and-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 flybridge and the forward door. Just launched this fall, the Bali 4.6 is enjoying an excellent commercial reception, including among owner customers thanks to its four layout versions - 3 to 5 cabins.
Builder: Bali Catamarans
Length: 46’10” (14.28 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)
Engines: 2 x 40/57 HP
Price: € 495,500 ex-tax
EOS 47 - A LA CARTE PERFORMANCE
Project
In the spirit of her big sister the Eos 54, the forthcoming 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
Overall length: 47’5” (14.44 m)
Waterline length: 47’5” (14.44 m)
Beam: 28’8” (7.52 m)
Light displacement: 21,825 lbs (9.9 t)
Draft: 4’11”/9’10” (1.50/3 m)
Fully-battened mainsail: 895 sq ft (83 m²)
Solent: 655 sq ft (61 m²)
Gennaker: 1,400 sq ft (130 m²)
Asymmetric spinnaker: 1,885 sq ft (175 m²)
Engines: 2 x 40 HP
Diesel: 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 in MW140 & 151
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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 4X.Zero, designed for renowned sailor Jimmy Cornell, and powered by electric motors.
Builder: Outremer Yachting
Length: 48’ (14.62 m)
Beam: 23’6” (7.15 m)
Light displacement: 18,000 lbs (8.2 t)
Draft: 2’11”/6’9” (0.9/2.05 m)
Mainsail: 720 sq ft (67 m²)
Genoa: 420/590 sq ft (39 m²/55 m²)
Gennaker: 1,184 sq ft (110 m²)
Cabins: 3 or 4 Water: 119 US gal (450 l)
Diesel: 89 US gal (336 l)
Engines: 2 x 30 HP
Price: € 575,000 ex-tax for the 45/ € 739,000 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.
Builder: Dufour Catamarans
Length: 48’3” (14.70 m)
Beam: 26’3” (8 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)
Engines: 2 x 50 or 60 HP
Fuel: 237 US gal (900 l)
Water: 185 US gal (700 l)
Price: tba
LAGOON 50 - VIVA LE FLYBRIDGE!
TEST in Special Issue #14 / MOTY 2018 Winner
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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. In our opinion, only the central island surrounding the aft-set mast support strut is up for debate. 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)
Light displacement: 43,995 lbs (19,956 kg)
Draft: 4’7” (1.40 m)
Mainsail: 958 sq ft (89 m²)
Genoa: 650 sq ft (60.3 m²)
Engines: 2 x 57 or 80 HP
Price: € 607,000 ex tax
EXCESS 15 - HELM STATIONS SET OUTBOARD ON THE HULLS
TEST in Special Issue #14
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Excess Catamarans is a new brand from the Beneteau Group, which already owns Lagoon, the world leader with nearly 45% market share. 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
Overall length: 48’5” (14.76 m)
Beam: 26’4” (8.03 m)
Draft: 4’7” (1.40 m)
Mainsail: 1,125/1,206 sq ft (104.5 /112 m²)
Self-tacking jib: 592/596 sq ft (55/55.4 m²)
Fuel capacity: 2 x 137 US gal (2 x 520 l)
Water: 2 x 63 US gal (2 x 240 l)
Engines: 2 x 57 or 80 HP
Price: € 611,050 ex-tax
BALI 4.8 - THE LOOKS OF A LARGE 50-FOOTER!
NEW - TEST in MW171
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The Bali 4.8 is already the seventh model from the brand - born just 5 years ago. 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)
Diesel: 264 US gal (1,000 l)
Water: 264 US gal (1,000 l)
Engines: 2 X 45 to 57 HP
Price: € 615,500 ex-tax
SOUBISE 49 - IS IT COME-BACK TIME?
Project
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 CharenteMaritime 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)
Weight: 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)
Engines: Volvo 2 x 40 HP sail drive
Price: € 800,000 ex-tax/Racing version by quotation
SLYDER 49 - AN ELECTRIC VERSION DUE OUT NEXT YEAR
TEST in MW171
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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. For 2021, the builder has announced an electric propulsion version. Two 22 kW motors, a 25 kW generator and a global energy management system will 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 (138m²)
Motors: 2 x 22 kW
Price: € 699,000 ex-tax
SABA 50 - ALREADY BECOMING A CLASSIC
TEST in MW139
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Launched in 2014, this model saw immediate success. Still able to be handled by a family crew, she offers exceptional comfort and vast areas for relaxation - forward and aft cockpit, and flybridge. Not too heavy and well-canvassed, the Saba 50 proves to be pretty lively on all points of sail, provided there’s an established breeze. The relatively short skegs don’t help course-keeping to windward, but she will reach 12 knots in 20 knots of wind. An excellent platform to go far, and for a long time. This model is likely in her final year of production, soon to be replaced by a 51-footer.
Builder: Fountaine Pajot
Length: 49’2” (14.98 m)
Beam: 26’3” (7.99 m)
Light displacement: 34,600 lbs (15,700 kg)
Draft: 4’1” (1.25 m)
Mainsail: 900 sq ft (83.5 m²)
Genoa: 620 sq ft (57.5 m²)
Engines: 2 x 55 HP
Price: n/a
www.catamarans-fountaine-pajot.com
ITA 14.99 - ELEGANT AND QUICK
TEST in MW168
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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: 3’9”/7’9” (1.15/2.35 m)
Mainsail: 980 sq ft (91 m²)
Self-tacking jib: 530 sq ft (49 m²)
Gennaker: 1,505 sq ft (140 m²)
Water: 2 x 87 US gal (2 x 330 l)
Diesel: 57 US gal (215 l)
Engines: 2 x 15 kW
Price: € 1,213,000 ex-tax
CATANA OCEAN CLASS - LE GRAND VOYAGEUR
NEW
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Following two years of design, Catana are announcing 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 heralding the start of a complete new range? It’s still too early for an answer to that question…
Builder: Catana Catamarans
Architect: Chantier Catana
Hull length: 49’2” (14.99m)
Waterline length: 49’1” (14.96m)
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)
Engines: 2 x 45 or 57 HP
Diesel: 211 US gal (800 l)
Water: 211 US gal (800 l)
Price: tba
SWISSCAT S48 - AN EXEMPLARY DECK LAYOUT
TEST in MW155
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The S48 is a blue water cruising catamaran exclusively designed and built on request for demanding owners. Built in epoxy/glass sandwich (with carbon reinforcements), very well-equipped, it is both reassuring and enjoyable to handle. Much of the pleasure experienced on board is the result of the care taken with the deck layout - quality of sail trimming maneuvers, winch size, clarity and efficiency. Managing the superb fractional rig with its magnificent carbon mast and its special boom is almost child’s play!
Builder: Swisscat Yachts
Length: 49’3” (15 m)
Beam: 24’10” (7.56 m)
Light displacement: 24,250 lbs (11 t)
Draft: 3’7”/9’6” (1.10/2.90 m)
Mainsail: 770 sq ft (71.5 m²)
Genoa: 560 sq ft (52 m²)
Gennaker: 1,365 sq ft (127 m²)
Engines: 2 x 45 HP
Price: € 1,000,000 ex-tax
SUNREEF 50 - THE MOST LUXURIOUS OF THE 50-FOOTERS
TEST in MW173
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Sail or power, Sunreef are the ultimate specialists in tailor-made luxury on two hulls. The 50 may be the smallest in the range, but offers all the benefits of her elders in just 50 feet (15.20 meters). 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)
Diesel: 264 US gal (1,000 l)
Engines: 2 x 80 HP
Price: € 1,300,000 ex-tax
KNYSNA 500 SE - READY FOR THE GREAT CAPES AND MORE…
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)
Light displacement: 29,800 lbs (13.5 t)
Mainsail: 807 sq ft (75 m²)
Genoa: 538 sq ft (50 m²)
Fuel: 158 US gal (600 l)
Water: 158 US gal (600 l)
Engines: 2 x 57 HP
Price: tba
PRIVILEGE 510 SIGNATURE - THAT CENTRAL ROSTRUM, WE LOVE IT!
NEW - TEST in MW173 - MOTY 2021 Nominee
Revitalized following their takeover by Hanse Group, Privilège is presenting a new generation of catamarans called Signature. The 510, the first model of this generation, was launched back in the spring. 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 mid-height helm station centralizes all sailing maneuvers: this is equipped with an elegant and very efficient windshield.
Builder: Privilège Marine
Architect: Marc Lombard
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: 570 sq ft (53 m²)
Water: 158 US gal (600 l)
Fuel: 210 US gal (800 l)
Engines: 2 x 55 HP or 2 x 80 HP
Price: € 1,035,000 ex-tax
RAPIDO 50 - FAST AND FOLDABLE
NEW
The launch of the 60 was enthusiastically received by the specialists, so Rapido Trimarans obviously turned to architects Morelli 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”/30’7” (5.50/9.32 m)
Light displacement: 14,440 lbs (6,550 kg)
Draft: 26”/11’7” (0.67/3.52 m)
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)
Diesel: 92 US gal (350 l)
Engines: 38.5 HP
Price: $896,000 ex-tax
ORC 50 - SPEED FIRST AND FOREMOST!
TEST in MW160
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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 saloon-cockpit layout that’s got everything you’ll find on a ‘fullcomfort’ 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’ (15.24 m)
Beam: 28’3” (8.60 m)
Light displacement: 18,960 lbs (8.6 t)
Draft: 3’11”/9’10” (1.20/3.00 m)
Mainsail: 947 sq ft (88 m²)
Genoa: 645 sq ft (60 m²)
Engines: 2 x 40 HP
Price: € 655,490 ex-tax
WINDELO 50 - IMMINENT LAUNCH FOR HULL #1!
NEW
The new Windelo catamaran builder 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 two to be built, a Windelo 50 and a 54 are about to be splashed. The yard announces an ecological approach by using basalt fiber and PUT foam (from recycling). But what’s original about the Windelo? The helm station and sail trimming are integrated into the nacelle. The saloon will open onto the cockpit thanks to an up-and-over door - a system validated on board the Balis. Each model will be available in three versions - Sport, Adventure and Yachting. The yard is also designing an electric-engine version. The very first Windelo 50 should be in the water this winter – and of course, we’ll be there for one of her first trips out!
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 3’11”/7’7” (1.20/2.32 m)
Mainsail: 947 sq ft (88 m²)
Genoa: 462 sq ft (43 m²)
Fuel: 132 US gal (500 l)
Water: 105 US gal (400 l)
Berths: 12 Motors: 2 x 20 kW
Price: from € 735,000 ex-tax
