2026 Sail Buyer's Guide

45 to 50 feet
For a long time now, this has been the category in which the biggest builders have been competing most fiercely. And this is only to be expected: 45 to 50 feet is the ideal size that most family crews have in mind when they dream of letting slip the lines and living aboard. But rising prices and skyrocketing interest rates have put a dampener on many plans these past few years. But the good news is that prices are now stabilizing, some even dropping, further sharpening what has once again become a very tough competitive environment. If you’ve got the budget, you can find yourself aboard a comfortable, safe boat that remains perfectly manageable without the need for a professional skipper. But each model we present here has its own personality: you’re sure to find the multihull that’s right for you!
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Publié le 27/11/2025
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Numéro : 205
Parution : Jan. / Feb. 2026
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Multihulls World #205

Max 45SC

Arriving in France Straight from Vietnam

 
 
Forever Green
NEW
Despite its relatively traditional appearance, the MaxCruise 45SC, directly derived from the 44SC that we tested in our Forever Green Special Edition #24, is hiding a few surprises! The hull of the Max 45SC has very fine-entry bows which guarantee a remarkable glide through the water in light airs, while its intelligently laid-out deck hardware facilitates short-handed maneuvering and contributes to making this model a very seaworthy multihull. This is a wonderful surprise that is shaking up the market standards.

Builder: Max Cruise Marine
Length: 45’3” (13.8 m)
Beam: 23’11” (7.3 m)
Draft: 21”/5’10” or 3’10” (0.54/1.77 or 1.16 m)
Displacement: 18,080 lbs (8.2 t)
Upwind sail area: 1,130 sq ft (105 m2)
Drivetrain: 2 x 30 HP or hybrid
Price: $ 642,000 ex-tax
www.maxcruisemarine.com

St Francis 460

Signed by Du Toit Yacht Design

 
 
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Until now, St Francis Marine’s catamarans had been considered to be extremely solid but having a very traditional design. The new St Francis 460 is a real break from the brand’s previous codes. The design, by 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 460 is available in a three or four-cabin version.

Builder: St Francis Marine
Length: 45’10” (13.98 m)
Beam: 26’3” (8 m)
Light displacement: 30,200 lbs (13.7 t)
Draft: 4’1” (1.25 m)
Sail area: 1,337 sq ft (124.2 m²)
Water: 2 x 105 US gal (2 x 400 l)
Fuel: 2 x 92 US gal (2 x 350 l)
Drivetrain: 2 x 40 HP - www.stfranciscatamarans.com

Lagoon 46 Iconic

With Volume to Burn!

 
 
Test MW163
The mission for the Lagoon 46 was to replace the 450. To begin with, the two models shared the fiercely competitive 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. The release two years ago of the Lagoon 51 with a mast forward of the coachroof - “old-school-style” - has changed the game... In the meantime, the Lagoon 46 has become the Iconic with specific upholstery and layouts; this catamaran continues to appeal thanks to its XXL volume. This model also offers impressive average speeds under sail for family crews. The combinations of mainsail/code 0 in light airs and mainsail/solent in a breeze are very effective.

Builder: Lagoon
Length: 45’11” (13.99 m)
Beam: 26’1” (7.96 m)
Light displacement: 35,935 lbs (16.3 t)
Draft: 4’6” (1.37 m)
Sail area: 1,366 sq ft (127 m²)
Fuel: 2 x 137 US gal (2 x 520 l)
Drivetrain: 2 x 57 HP
Price: € 686,800 ex-tax
www.cata-lagoon.com

Class 4

Remarkable Comfort at Sea

 
 
Forever Green
Test MW138
During our test of the 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. As standard, this model is powered by two Yanmar motors, but the manufacturer also offers a hybrid formula.

Builder: O Yachts
Length: 45’11” (13.99 m)
Beam: 24’11” (7.6 m)
Light displacement: 15,875 lbs (7.2 t) Draft: 3’7” (1.1 m)
Sail area: 1,303 to 1,655 sq ft
Fuel: 105 US gal (400 l)
Water: 79 US gal (300 l)
Drivetrain: 2 x 30 HP or 2 x 10/15 kW
www.o-yachts.com

Lightwave 46

A Very Attractive Australian Cat

 
 
Test MW188
Roger Overell, director and founder of Lightwave, led the redesign of their flagship model, the Lightwave 45. While the specifications of the new 46 remain the same, this model that we got to try out in Sydney features inverted bows and a redesigned coachroof with larger openings. The interior has also been 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 m)
Beam: 23’11” (7.3 m)
Draft (skegs): 4’ (1.2 m)
Displacement: 16,550 lbs (7.5 t)
Sail area: 1,254 sq ft (116.5 m²) with overlapping genoa
Drivetrain: 2 x 50/55 HP
Fuel: 210 US gal (800 l)
Price (2025): AU$ 1,178,000 ex-tax
www.lightwaveyachts.com

Balance 464 CC

Carbon Structure

 
 
Forever Green
NEW
This new entry-level model in the Balance range uses much of the same tooling as the highly successful 442, but is larger, with almost 30 inches (80 cm) more hull. The 464 CC will be lighter and stiffer thanks to a carbon structure, with many parts, such as the daggerboards and rudder blades, also being made of carbon. As for the sailplan, it will become a little sleeker. The VersaDrive version combines electric motors, a generator, a hydrogeneration system, a 36 kWh battery capacity and solar panels totaling up to 3 kWp. Launch is scheduled for February.

Builder: Balance Catamarans
Architects: Phillip Berman and Anton Du Toit
Overall length: 46’7” (14.19 m)
Beam: 24’11” (7.6 m)
Displacement: 25,350/27,550 lbs (11.5/12.5 t)
Draft: 3’9”/7’5” (1.14/2.27 m)
Sail area: 1,280 sq ft (119 m²)
Fuel: 2 x 105 US gal (2 x 400 l)
Water: 2 x 92 US gal (2 x 350 l)
Drivetrain: internal combustion or hybrid
Price (2025): US$ 1,285,000
www.balancecatamarans.com

CM46

A Schionning Design Built in South Africa

 
 
Image retirée.
At Annapolis, we got the chance to discover this sporty, nearly all-carbon catamaran with its inverted bows and aft-set coachroof. But above all, it’s the CM46’s sail area/displacement ratio that promises outstanding performance: with 17.54 m² per ton, this catamaran is almost twice as fast as comfort cruisers in its class! Add to that, the deep daggerboards will ensure excellent upwind sailing. On deck, the structural cross-beam - a feat of composite manufacturing - is particularly elegant. Inside, the hunt for weight imposes a very basic finish: you have to know what you want... The manufacturer also offers a CM50 and a CM53.

Builder: Current Marine
Architect: Schionning Design
Length: 46’7” (14.2 m)
Beam: 24’3” (7.4 m)
Displacement: 14,330 lbs (6.5 t)
Draft daggerboards up: 3’11” (1.2 m)
Mainsail: 732 sq ft (68 m²)
Genoa: 495 sq ft (46 m²)
Drivetrain: 2 x 30 HP
Fuel: 2 x 40 US gal (2 x 150 l)
Water: 2 x 53 US gal (2 x 200 l)
www.currentmarine.co.za

Neel 47 Final Edition

Last Chance before the 48

 
 
Image retirée.
Test MW166
This trimaran, launched in 2019 and which you crowned MOTY of its category in 2020, is approaching the end of its run: a Neel 48 is now in the works for the La Rochelle-based builder. Aboard this 47, you’ll discover a generous central space, which merges saloon and cockpit. The main innovation of this model is that the owner’s cabin is located on the same level as the rest of the platform. The floats fitted out as guest cabins allow the owner and crew to host 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.

Builder: Neel Trimarans
Length: 46’7” (14.2 m)
Beam: 27’3” (8.3 m)
Draft: 5’3” (1.6 m)
Light displacement: 23,370 lbs (10.6 t)
Sail area: 1,291 sq ft (120 m²)
Fuel: 79 US gal (300 l)
Drivetrain: 60 HP
Price (2025): € 698,700 ex-tax www.neel-trimarans.com

FP48

A Future Best-seller for the Brand?

 
 
Image retirée.
Forever Green
NEW
Bye bye Saona 47/Tanna 47, hello FP48, a more luxurious and comfortable catamaran - it is 19 inches (49 cm) longer and 8 in (20 cm) more in the beam, with an additional weight of just over 8,100 lbs (3.68 t) - compensated for by a sail area that increases from 1,388 square feet (129 m²) to 1,442 sq ft (134 m²). Hydraulic platform, dual helm/control stations, central island: the manufacturer’s standard features are clearly evident. While the freeboard seems to be more generous, the waterlines have been carefully designed, with the keels plunging 5’5” (1.64 m) below the surface - compared to 3’11” (1.2 m) for the Tanna. The hybrid propulsion is also offered as an option.

Builder: Fountaine Pajot
Architect: Berret/Racoupeau Yacht Design
Length: 47’4” (14.43 m)
Beam: 25’11” (7.9 m)
Draft: 5’5” (1.64 m)
Light displacement: 40,570 lbs (18.4 t)
Sail area: 1,442 sq ft (134 m²)
Drivetrain: 2 x 45 HP or hybrid
Fuel: 2 x 92 US gal (2 x 350 l)
Price: € 664,000 ex-tax
www.fountaine-pajot.com

Leopard 46

Electric Powertrain!

 
 
Image retirée.
Forever Green
Tests MW199/SP#24
Presented last year, the replacement for the Leopard 45 includes (as an option) an electric drivetrain – a big first for the brand. As for the rest of the catamaran, the 46 retains all the brand’s hallmarks - forward door with coachroof overhang and mini exterior saloon in front of the mast, mid-height helm and maneuvering station, and a flybridge. The opening between the nacelle and cockpit is much wider than on the 45, with the idea being to offer an open configuration that doesn’t compromise the comfort of a closed layout (for nighttime or bad weather). Inside, there are 3, 4 or 5 cabins. Great options include the lifting platform, the taller rig and the performance sails.

Builder: Robertson & Caine
Overall length: 47’6” (14.48 m)
Beam: 24’1” (7.35 m)
Draft: 5’5” (1.65 m)
Displacement: 38,930 lbs (17.66 t)
Sail area: 1,507 sq ft (140 m²)
Drivetrain: 2 x 25 kW or 2 x 45/57 HP
Fuel: 182 US gal (690 l)
Price: € 699,000 ex-tax
www.leopardcatamarans.com

Max 48SC

Performance and Hybrid Propulsion

 
 
Image retirée.
NEW
Forever Green
The inverted bows, slim hulls at the waterline, and displacement limited to 23,370 lbs (10.6 t) set the tone: the Max 48SC guarantees excellent performance under way. Those who enjoy the thrill of close-hauled sailing can opt for the deep daggerboards rather than the fixed skeg keels.
But comfort has not been neglected, as the platform is very wide – over 26 feet (8 m) in the beam, making it 27½ inches (70 cm) beamier than the Max 45SC. The shipyard offers highly customizable layouts and hybrid propulsion.

Builder: Max Cruise Marine
Length: 47’11” (14.6 m)
Beam: 26’3” (8 m)
Displacement: 23,370 lbs (10.6 t)
Draft fixed keels: 4’5” (1.35 m)
Draft daggerboard version: 3’11”/7’10” (1.2/2.4 m)
Sail area: 1,381 sq ft (128.29 m²)
Drivetrain: 40 HP / Hybrid
Fuel: 161 US gal (610 l)
Price: $ 873,000 ex-tax- www.maxcruisemarine.com

Outremer 45/4X/4.Zero

Performance and Helming Pleasure

 
 
Image retirée.
Forever Green
Tests MW140/MW151/MW175
Launched some 12 years ago now, this model is now both the smallest and oldest in the Outremer range. At the time, it was thought that it would be difficult to replace the original Outremer 45 designed by the late Gérard Danson’s crack team. But ultimately, as the 48 makes its debut in the shipyard at La Grande-Motte, it’s clear that the new 45, available in a performance version called the 4X and also with electric propulsion in the 4.Zero version, has also become iconic: hull #100 was launched back in the spring...

Builder: Outremer Yachting
Length: 48’ (14.63 m)
Beam: 23’6” (7.15 m)
Light displacement: 17,850/19,180 lbs (8.1/8.7 t)
Draft: 4’1”/7’1” (1.25/2.15 m)
Mainsail: 720/742 sq ft (67/69 m²)
Genoa: 420/441/590 sq ft (39/41/55 m²)
Fuel: 89 US gal (336 l)
Drivetrain: 2 x 30 HP or 2 x 10 kW
Price: € 840,000 ex-tax
www.catamaran-outremer.com

Nautitech 48 Open

A Flagship Optimized for Owners

 
 
Image retirée.
Test MW194
The new flagship retains all the Nautitech DNA, giving an interesting compromise between performance and comfort, an inside/outside concept cleverly implemented in the cockpit and saloon with a convivial central bar and twin helm stations at the after end of the hulls. Optimized above all for owners, the 48 is available in 5 layout versions and offers a “smartroom” that can be customized as desired by the owner.

Builder: Nautitech Catamarans
Naval Architect: Marc Lombard Yacht Design Group
Length overall: 47’9” (14.6 m)
Beam: 26’2” (7.97 m)
Draft: 5’1” (1.55 m)
Light displacement: 29,768 lbs (13.5 t)
Sail area: 1,400 sq ft (130 m²)
Drivetrain: 2 x 60/75 HP
Fuel: 2 x 79 US gal (2 x 300 l)
Price: € 1,019,980 ex-tax
www.nautitechcatamarans.com

Tortue 147

A Catamaran of an Extraordinary Design

 
 
Image retirée.
Forever Green
NEW
Test MW204
This Turkish-built, aluminum catamaran boasts a truly unique design and layout, with a nacelle reminiscent of a turtle shell, large stained-glass portholes, a suspended chart table seat, and a cabin layout reminiscent of a small mountain chalet. The same surprising atmosphere reigns at the after end of the boat, where a modest suspended balcony serves as a cockpit.
The hull has two specific features: a bulbous bow is grafted onto each side to dampen pitching, and the stern is particularly sleek.
The conventional internal combustion engine has been supplemented by an electric propulsion system capable of propelling the Tortue over a distance of 12 nautical miles and providing efficient hydrogeneration when the catamaran is making way under sail.

Builder: Cataruga
Material: 8 to 10 mm aluminum
Length: 48’3” (14.7 m)
Beam: 25’9” (7.85 m)
Draft: 4’9” (1.45 m)
Displacement: 37,500 lbs (17 t)
Sail area: 1,076/1,507 sq ft (100/140 m²)
Drivetrain: 2 x 57 HP and 2 x 10 kW
Price: € 960,000 ex-tax www.cataruga.com

C-Cat 48

An Alternative to a Series Production Boat

 
 
Image retirée.
Test MW182
This offshore catamaran, launched three years ago in Italy, features a coachroof with a simple yet successful design, incorporating a forward hatch just behind the mast. The hulls are slim, with straight bows and have daggerboards. The lightship displacement of just under 10 tons, ensures smooth sailing and lively, responsive handling when sailing close to the wind. In short, the C-Cat 48 is as comfortable as it is fast and fun to sail.

Builder: Comar Yachts
Length: 48’5” (14.75 m)
Beam: 23’11” (7.3 m)
Light displacement: 21,400 lbs (9.7 t)
Draft: 3’/9’8” (0.9/2.95 m)
Sail area: 1,388 sq ft (129 m²)
Drivetrain: 2 x 35 HP
Fuel: 2 x 34 US gal (2 x 130 l)
Price: € 998,000 ex-tax
www.comaryachts.it

Vision 484

A Big Sistership to the 444!

 
 
Image retirée.
NEW
Vision Yachts, a shipyard based in Knysna, South Africa, has enjoyed great success with its 444, of which almost 30 have already been produced. But the time has come for a new model to be developed, and this is to be the forthcoming Vision 484, of which hull #1 will be delivered next year. Designed for ocean cruising, this new model adopts robust, proven solutions (skegs, self-tacking jib), a load capacity in excess of 4 tons and a focus on comfort and safety, with a well-protected cockpit and a bridgedeck clearance raised to 35 inches (90 cm) above the water. This catamaran, designed above all for owners, offers 3 cabins.

Builder: Vision Yachts
Hull length: 48’5” (14.75 m)
Beam: 26’3” (8 m)
Draft: 4’1” (1.25 m)
Displacement: 27,940 lbs (12.7 t)
Sail area: 1,400 sq ft (130 m²)
Drivetrain: 2 x 50 HP
CE Certification: A
Price: $ 1,250,000 ex-tax
www.visionyachts.com

Sail Cat AG 49’

Inverted bows, Made in Brazil

 
 
This catamaran has relatively fine hulls, and the Divinycell PVC foam infusion construction is well mastered by AG Catamarans and its owner Amilton Gutierrez, who has been building boats for over 40 years. Ultimately, displacement remains comparable to that of mass-produced boats of the same size, as does the sail plan, which is somewhat limited in area by the self-tacking jib. This Sail Cat AG 49’ should therefore be perfectly suited to long runs under gennaker when let loose. Layout plans offer 3 or 4 cabins.

Builder: AG Catamarans
Architect: A. Bottino
Length: 49’ (14.9 m)
Beam: 26’3” (8 m)
Displacement: 33,000 lbs (15 t)
Sail area: 1,324 sq ft (123 m²)
Drivetrain: 2 x 50/60 HP
Fuel: 2 x 132 US gal (2 x 500 l)
www.agcatamarans.com

Freydis 49 Croiseur

A Blue Water Boat That’ll Always Make You Dream…

 
 
Test MW97
This model, an evolution of the 46, is emblematic of the shipyard’s know-how. Light, fast and intelligently equipped, this is a blue water catamaran designed for experienced sailors, yet one that remains very easy to handle. Its bows allow a maximum waterline length while the narrow stems favor performance. The Freydis 49 Cruiser can be equipped with an optional rotating wing mast – in carbon. This model is available in versions with skeg keels or daggerboards and can be had in various stages of completion.

Builder: Tournier Marine
Length: 49’ (14.93 m)
Beam: 25’7” (7.8 m)
Draft: 3’7” or 20”/8’4” (1.1 or 0.5/2.55m)
Displacement: 16,535/17,637 lbs (7.5/8 t)
Sail area: 1,570 sq ft (146 m²)
Drivetrain: 2 x 40 HP www.tourniermarine.fr

Vaan R5

An Aluminum Catamaran with Two Sizes of Coachroof

 
 
Image retirée.
Forever Green
Test MW SP#20
Like the first R4, this 49-footer is built in recycled aluminum. The R5 is constructed 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’ (14.94 m)
Beam: 26’3” (7.99 m)
Draft: 4’5”/6’11” (1.35/2.1 m) with optional daggerboards
Displacement: 34,500 lbs (17 t)
Sail area: 1,345 sq ft (125 m²)
Drivetrain: 2 x 15/30 kW
www.vaanyachts.nl

Wave 50

A Very Bold Design

 
 
Image retirée.
Forever Green
Test MW182
The forward arch, 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 yard now offers hybrid propulsion, and the concept can also be seen with the Wave 60.

Builder: Wave Catamarans
Overall length: 49’1” (14.95 m)
Beam: 27’4” (8.34 m)
Draft: 4’9” (1.4 m)
Sail area: 1,496 sq ft (139 m²)
Drivetrain: 2 x 60 HP and 2 x 18.5 kW
Fuel: 220 US gal (840 l)
Price (2025): € 1,700,000 ex-tax
www.wavecatamarans.com

Aquila 50

Sail and electric!

 
 
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Forever Green
NEW
The first model will be the Aquila 50, whose design by J&J Design skillfully combines the Aquila DNA, as exemplified by the traditional bow shape with the usual sailing codes.
The Aquila 50 has been designed with large living space on board and features a forward deck/cockpit with access from the nacelle, a flybridge with dual fore and aft access, and a hydraulic platform for the dinghy. The very large cabins (4 to 6) offer particularly attractive, bright layouts. In terms of propulsion, a Torqeedo electric drivetrain has been chosen, although the yard will also offer diesel engines.
The Aquila 50 is set to be launched in February in Miami; the catamaran will then be unveiled in Europe at the International Multihull Show in La Grande-Motte, France, and then in Asia. Two other models have already been announced by the shipyard - an Aquila 44 and an Aquila 63.

Builder: Aquila Boats
Length: 49’1” (14.97 m)
Beam: 25’9” (7.86 m)
Draft: 3’4” (1.7 m)
Air draft: 82’6” (25.15 m) Light displacement: 50,600 lbs (24 t)
Mainsail: 968/1,037 sq ft (90/96.4 m²)
Drivetrain: 2 x 50 kW or 2 x 50/60/75 HP
Fuel: 222 US gal (865 l)
www.aquilaboats.com

Catana Ocean Class2

Revised and Optimized

 
 
Image retirée.
Test MW185
Launched three years ago now, the Ocean Class is currently representing the Catana brand all by itself, which has not prevented it from enjoying relative success with some 20 units delivered. Version #2 of the OC50 features interiors redesigned by Piaton & Bercault. In addition to the use of new woods and new fabrics, there’s a larger aft window, a new storage compartment extended from a bench seat, a more cozy, modular saloon, an optimized galley, and several improvements designed to further enhance comfort for blue water cruising. The good news is that the 13½-ton displacement remains unchanged.

Builder: Catana Group
Architect: BE Catana
Length overall: 49’2” (14.99 m)
Beam: 26’2” (7.98 m)
Draft: 4’7”/8’3” (1.39/2.52 m)
Displacement: 29,750 lbs (13.5 t)
Sail area: 1,507 sq ft (140 m²)
Drivetrain: 2 x 45 HP
Fuel: 211 US gal (800 l)
Price: € 1,452,000 ex-tax
www.catana.com

ITA 14.99/15.49

Design and Performance

 
 
Forever Green
Tests MW168/194
The 15.49 was presented to the public for the first time at the 2023 Cannes Yachting Festival. This new model is based on the platform of the 14.99, as the beam is identical, and the interior is the same. On the other hand, it features a taller coachroof, extended sugarscoops and much larger hull windows. The builder has achieved a neat construction in glass/epoxy sandwich with carbon reinforcements and a high technological level for the onboard systems and the electric drivetrain. Performance has not been overlooked, thanks to a highly favorable sail-area-to-weight ratio and the adoption of deep daggerboards.

Builder: Itacatamarans
Length: 49’2”/50’10” (14.99/15.49 m)
Beam: 25’7” (7.8 m)
Draft: 3’11”/7’9” (1.2/2.35 m)
Displacement: 23,150/24,250 lbs (10.5/11 t)
Sail area: (140 m²)1,507 sq ft
Motors: 2 x 15 kW
Fuel: 2 x 56 US gal (2 x 215 l)
www.itacatamarans.com

Sunreef 50

The Most Luxurious 50-footer

 
 
Forever Green
Test MW173
The 50 may be the smallest in the range offered by Sunreef Yachts, but concentrates no less than 1,798 square feet (167 m²) of habitable space in hulls of just 15.2 m (50’) in length - along with all the features offered by her bigger sisterships. 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! And as from this year, this model is available in an ECO version, with electric propulsion.

Builder: Sunreef Yachts
Length: 49’10 (15.2 m)
Beam: 29’10” (9.1 m)
Light displacement: 70,500 lbs (32 t)
Draft: 4’11” (1.5 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)
Drivetrain: 2 x 80 HP or electric
www.sunreef-yachts.com

Seaview 50

A Step Towards Electric Power

 
 
Image retirée.
Chinese boatbuilder Heysea Yachts recently launched a complete range of cruising catamarans. The smallest among them is the Seaview 50 and hull #5 of the model has been equipped with a 47.10 kWh 48 V lithium iron phosphate battery, 1.9 kWp solar panels and wind generators. The aim is that the multihull will be able to do without its generator for 6 to 8 hours, with no restrictions on comfort – having air conditioning running, for example. The system was tested and validated over the curse of a the 2,500-mile delivery trip from Xinhui (China) to Phuket (Thailand). For the time being, the powertrain consists of a pair of classic Volvo 50 HP internal combustion engines, but we can be sure that the manufacturer will soon be offering electric propulsion.

Builder: HeySea Yachts
Length: 49’11” (15.21 m)
Beam: 26’4” (8.02 m)
Draft: 5’1” (1.54 m)
Mainsail: 861 sq ft (80 m²)
Genoa: 538 sq ft (50 m²)
Fuel: 2 x 132 US gal (2 x 500 l)
Drivetrain: 2 x 50 HP Price: $ 980,000 ex-tax
www.heyseayachts.com

Cure 48

Lightweight and Well-Canvased

 
 
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NEW
Building on the strength of its joint venture with McConaghy, Cure Marine is stepping up a gear after the launch of its highly successful Cure 55 and is now presenting a complete range, starting with the Cure 48. “Sail faster, stay longer,” says the builder - its model is clearly positioned as a beefed-up competitor to HH and even Outremer, with carbon fiber throughout, a relatively short nacelle set aft, and an impressive sail area to weight ratio of 13.33 m²/t. The rigid bimini top (without a flybridge, of course) allows for the installation of 3.4 kWp of solar panels. The interior features an L-shaped cabin on the starboard side with a central island, a saloon opposite and a forward-facing navigation/desk area. The two articulating helm stations are located in the cockpit.

Builder: Cure Marine
Length: 50’ (15.24 m)
Beam: 27’5” (8.36 m)
Draft: 4’3”/7’5” (1.3/2.25 m)
Sail area: 1,507 sq ft (140 m²)
Displacement: 23,148 lbs (10.5 t)
Drivetrain: 2 x 57 HP
Fuel: 2 x 105 US gal (2 x 400 l)
www.curemarine.com.au

Knysna 500SE

A Lot of Character!

 
 
Like the South African port from which it takes its name, the 500SE 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 semi-flybridge 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. All with great comfort and maintaining a favorable displacement…

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: 35,275 lbs (16 t)
Sail area: 1,345 sq ft (125 m²)
Fuel: 158 US gal (600 l)
Drivetrain: 2 x 57 HP
www.knysnayachtco.com

Privilege Signature 510

Ever Faithful to the Central Rostrum

 
 
Test MW173
The Signature 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. Lombard Yacht Design 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: Privilege Marine
Naval Architect: Cabinet Marc Lombard
Length: 50’ (15.24 m)
Beam: 26’2” (7.98 m)
Draft: 5’2” (1.57 m)
ight displacement: 37,000 lbs (16.8 t)
Sail area: 1,559 sq ft (145 m²)
Fuel: 210 US gal (800 l)
Drivetrain: 2 x 55/80 HP
Price: € 2,200,000 ex-tax- www.privilege-marine.com

Rapido 50

The Biggest Folding Trimaran

 
 
Rapido Trimarans turned to architects Morelli and Melvin to design a 50-footer with folding arms to rationalize docking costs. This twin-cabin boat has many of the same elements as her bigger sistership, the 60. 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.

Builder: Triac Composites
Length: 50’ (15.24 m)
Beam: 19’/33’7” (5.8/10.24 m)
Light displacement: 18,850 lbs (8.55 t)
Draft: 26”/11’7” (0.67/3.52 m)
Sail area: 1,663 sq ft (154.5 m²)
Fuel: 92 US gal (350 l)
Drivetrain: 40 HP
Price: $ 1,250,000 ex-tax www.rapidotrimarans.com

Windelo 50/51 Sport

A New, More Appealing Design

 
 
Forever Green
Test MW195
Beyond the cosmetic alterations, the coachroof on the New generation has been revised to improve drainage and to moderate its square appearance: the forward face has been reworked with two hatches slightly angled aft and inversed. The top of the coachroof now has a “cap” appearance, all the more evident with it now being extended aft. The rear platform and the sugarscoops are also more elegant. The forward cockpit dedicated to sailing maneuvers has been improved. As for the interior, this now respects well-defined color options. The 50 is available in two versions, Adventure and Yachting.

Builder: Windelo
Length: 50’/51’ (15.24/15.54 m)
Beam: 26’1” (7.95 m)
Light displacement: 24,700 lbs (11.2 t)
Draft: 3’5”/7’7” or 9’2” (1.03/2.32 or 2.8 m)
Sail area: 1,452/1,517 sq ft (135/141 m²)
Fuel: 132 US gal (500 l)
Drivetrain: 2 x 20 kW
Price: € 1,095,000 ex-tax
www.windelo-catamaran.com

Tags : 2026 Sail Buyer s Guide

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MM233 - octobre-novembre 2025

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