leopard vs lagoon catamaran

Browser Security Check…

Lagoon vs Leopard Catamaran: Which Sailboat Is Right for You?

Table of Contents

Introduction

When it comes to cruising on the open waters, catamarans have gained immense popularity for their stability, space, and comfort. Two of the leading catamaran manufacturers, Lagoon and Leopard, offer exceptional vessels that cater to different preferences and sailing needs. In this article, we will compare Lagoon and Leopard catamarans to help you decide which one is the perfect fit for your sailing adventures.

1. The Legacy of Lagoon and Leopard Catamarans

1.1 lagoon catamarans.

Lagoon, a brand of the Beneteau Group, has a rich heritage in yacht building. Founded in 1984, Lagoon has been manufacturing top-quality catamarans known for their luxurious designs and innovative features.

1.2 Leopard Catamarans

Leopard Catamarans, on the other hand, is part of the Robertson and Caine shipyard, which started in 1991. Leopard specializes in producing bluewater cruising catamarans that are highly regarded for their seaworthiness and performance.

2. Design and Space

2.1 lagoon catamarans.

Lagoon catamarans are renowned for their spacious layouts and attention to detail. They offer generous living areas, both inside and outside the boat, making them ideal for extended journeys or living aboard. Lagoon emphasizes a modern and comfortable design, ensuring a delightful sailing experience.

2.2 Leopard Catamarans

Leopard catamarans are well-known for their contemporary designs and efficient use of space. They offer clever storage solutions and functional interiors that cater to the needs of serious sailors and liveaboard enthusiasts.

3. Performance and Sailing Experience

3.1 lagoon catamarans.

Lagoon catamarans prioritize comfort and stability over high-performance sailing. While they offer a smooth and steady sail, they might not be the fastest catamarans on the water. However, for those seeking a relaxed and leisurely sailing experience, Lagoon catamarans are an excellent choice.

3.2 Leopard Catamarans

Leopard catamarans, with their emphasis on bluewater cruising, are designed for better performance and handling. They tend to be more agile and responsive, making them an attractive option for sailors who enjoy a thrilling and sporty sail.

4. Price Range and Affordability

4.1 lagoon catamarans.

Lagoon catamarans are known for their luxurious features, and with that, they generally come with a higher price tag. These vessels are a considerable investment, suitable for those willing to splurge on exceptional comfort and style.

4.2 Leopard Catamarans

Leopard catamarans offer a more budget-friendly range without compromising quality. They are a practical choice for sailors who seek a well-designed catamaran at a more accessible price point.

5. Customization Options

5.1 lagoon catamarans.

Lagoon offers various customization options, allowing buyers to tailor their catamarans to their specific preferences. From interior layouts to cabin arrangements, Lagoon provides flexibility to create a personalized sailing home.

5.2 Leopard Catamarans

Leopard also provides some level of customization, giving buyers the chance to select certain features and finishes. However, the range of customization might not be as extensive as that of Lagoon.

6. Resale Value and Depreciation

6.1 lagoon catamarans.

Lagoon catamarans tend to hold their value well in the resale market due to their prestigious brand reputation and high-quality construction. While all boats experience some depreciation, Lagoon catamarans can retain a significant portion of their initial value.

6.2 Leopard Catamarans

Leopard catamarans also enjoy decent resale value, thanks to their popularity and robust build. Owners can expect a reasonable return on their investment when it’s time to sell.

7. Maintenance and Service

7.1 lagoon catamarans.

Lagoon has an extensive network of dealers and service centers worldwide, making maintenance and support more accessible for their customers. This global presence ensures that assistance is available even during extended voyages.

7.2 Leopard Catamarans

Leopard catamarans benefit from a solid network of service providers as well, ensuring that owners receive the necessary support wherever they are sailing.

In conclusion, choosing between a Lagoon and a Leopard catamaran boils down to your sailing preferences, budget, and priorities. If you prioritize luxurious living spaces and comfort while sailing, Lagoon might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a catamaran with agile performance and a sporty sail, Leopard could be your ideal match.

Whichever brand you choose, both Lagoon and Leopard catamarans offer excellent options for cruising enthusiasts, ensuring memorable adventures on the high seas.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Are Lagoon catamarans suitable for long-distance voyages?

Yes, Lagoon catamarans are well-equipped and suitable for long-distance sailing. Their spacious interiors and stability make them ideal for extended journeys.

2. Can I customize the layout of a Leopard catamaran?

Leopard catamarans do offer some level of customization, allowing buyers to select certain features and finishes based on their preferences.

3. Do Lagoon catamarans have a better resale value compared to Leopard catamarans?

Both Lagoon and Leopard catamarans tend to hold their value well in the resale market, but Lagoon catamarans, with their prestigious brand reputation, might have a slight edge in resale value.

4. Which catamaran brand is more suitable for bluewater cruising?

Leopard catamarans are specifically designed for bluewater cruising and offer better performance and handling in open waters.

5. Can you live aboard a Lagoon or Leopard catamaran full-time?

Absolutely! Both Lagoon and Leopard catamarans are spacious and comfortable enough to serve as a full-time living space for adventurous souls seeking the nomadic lifestyle.

Sailing Better

Sailbetter.com is a website blog dedicated to providing sailors of all levels with the knowledge and skills needed to improve their sailing experience. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a beginner, the blog offers valuable tips and techniques to help you navigate the open waters with ease and confidence. Whether you're interested in racing or cruising, you'll find useful information and expert advice to help you reach your sailing goals.

Leopard 46 Review: Better than a Lagoon?

Post author By Richard
Post date December 7, 2011
No Comments on Leopard 46 Review: Better than a Lagoon?

Clients often debate about which of the production catamaran brands to purchase. Is there a significant difference between a Fountain-Pajot, Lagoon, and Leopard? After an 11 day delivery of a Leopard 46 from Fort Lauderdale to Cartagena, Colombia and a delivery of a Lagoon 440 in March from Fort Lauderdale to Annapolis , in many respects the Leopard out classed the Lagoon including performance, durability, and comfort. My colleague and super star sailor Kevin Bray lauded the Leopard throughout the delivery. “After working on this boat for 3 months and now sailing her, I can honestly say I like this Leopard 46 design, and there are not a lot of boats that I can say that about,” shared Kevin. In a few areas, I give the edge to Lagoon. Read on to see which.

John Robertson and the late Jerry Caine founded the manufacturer Robertson & Caine in 1991 in Cape Town, South Africa. Initially, the business involved custom mono-hull sailing yacht building. The 70ft maxi, Broomstick, won the Cape to Rio International Yacht Race in 1993 and impressed international racing enthusiasts. This interest enabled the company to be awarded the licence to manufacture the Mumm 36 racer designed by Bruce Farr and attracted the interest of the yacht charter company Tui Marine.

Since 1994 the South African yard has enjoyed a relationship with Tui Marine, owner of charter companies Moorings and Sunsail. R&C has supplied more than 800 Leopard catamarans to Tui Marine. The Leopard historical range includes 38, 39, 40, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, and 62-foot models by naval architects Gino Morrelli and Pete Melvin or Alexander Simonis and Maarten Voogd. Today, Robertson & Caine is South Africa’s largest boat-building exporter launching on average three boats a week. Cruising World recently awarded their new Leopard 44, their 2012 cruising boat of the year.

First Impressions

In the same way Lagoons are easily identified by their vertical saloon windows, Leopards have distinct steps in front of their windows for deck manoeuvrability. The 46 is sexy to my eye with her aggressive, possibly feline side windows. These windows are paired with the typical fine bows, trampoline centerline forward, and sugar scoop sterns aft. Large, industrial dingy davits leave you feeling safe on the high seas with your tender tightly secured. The helm positioning is like the Lagoon 420 instead of the 440, offset portside. This provides more security though I enjoyed the high positioned, flybridge of the 440 while in close quarters or docking.

Underneath the bridgedeck has above average clearance for offshore performance. There is an escape hatch centerline just below the entranceway. The keels are sacrificial and secured via large diameter horizontal keel bolts. These bolts corrode but are easily maintained if you check on them after each haul. The Yanmar saildrives stick through the bottom next and help Robertson & Caine maximize interior space. Spade rudders are aftmost.

Construction and What To Look For

I heard a story about Moorings whose US sales office is at Harbortown next door to our office here in Dania Beach, Florida. Originally they chartered in the Caribbean both Lagoon and Leopard catamarans. But they found that the Lagoons did not hold up and that the higher quality build of the Leopards maximised their profits. From my comparison in every respect, Leopard makes the choice towards higher quality materials, more sophisticated techniques, or more robust engineering. One thing to look at are the edges on the laminated cabinetry. More often than not Leopard finished out the edges to prevent water intrusion while Lagoon rarely does. It is these kind of small yet important things on yachts that differentiates quality which can withstand the many years of cruising abuse.

On deck the Leopard 46 features watertight compartments port and starboard for storage. Aft of the trampoline is the windlass, water tankage, sail storage, and generator compartments. The generator in its sound proof shield aboard the yacht I delivered was incredibly quiet. For security at the mast, I love Robertson & Caine’s semicircle support on the mast. Like granny bars this helps you stay on the boat in rough conditions offshore. It also is a step to help climb the mast and a rack to coil and tie the bitter end of halyard lines to. The distinctive and functional Leopard glass steps allow you to easily mount the rooftop. While anchored at Staniel Cay, I ignored the “Do Not Dive From Platform” sign and had great fun launching myself from 15-feet in the air and swan diving in between the davits into the beautiful, azure Bahamian waters.

The cockpit aboard the Leopard 46 is incredible and illustrates why people love catamarans. While on a mono-hull you would spend your time cramped in a long narrow cockpit, here you can luxuriously lay out in an incredible number of ergonomic spots. We dined, navigated, and fished from the cockpit. In the Caribbean, we were rarely inside except to sleep, navigate from the nav station, or cook. The stern swim platforms provide easy access to the water and a place to cleanly gut fish.

One feature Lagoon has over Leopard is a lighter interior. While the Leopard is open and light, Lagoon takes this to another level with the vertical, uninhibited windows. Leopard has those steps which block light and visibility from the interior. The woodwork is lighter on Lagoons as well which often draws a quiet preference from clients.

Catamaran layouts are mostly the same these days. Sure some cats have galleys down, but by and large especially on larger cats, the galley up arrangement is standard. I sailed to Colombia aboard the owner version of the Leopard 46 where the starboard hull has a large master head forward and light and airy master berth aft. This owner suite makes a big difference for clients who are dislike the dark, closed in feel of the 2 head, 2 stateroom charter hull.

One of my biggest complaints during my earlier delivery of the Lagoon 440 to Annapolis was the low and uncomfortable nav station seat. I was pleased to experience on the Leopard a proper height and ergonomical seat with multiple seating options, likewise for the exterior helm. It did not hurt that the Leopard owner had made some savvy upholstery decisions to heighten the comfort factor.

The engines are Volvo D55, Yanmar 4JH3E, or Yanmar’s latest saildrives, the 54HP Yanmar 4JH4’s. Our 4JH4 ran smoothly throughout our trip. The only catch was an unusual buzzing sound. We finally figured out that this happened when when boat speed outpaced engine speed. The saildrives were telling us “what the hell are you doing? Either ramp up the RPM’s or turn me off.” We motored at 7 to 8 knots at 2,000 RPM’s burning about .9 gal/hour of diesel.

I prefer the Leopard’s engine room arrangement. While overlaying the engine rooms on Lagoons are plywood laminated levels, the Leopard has open compartments with a single removable glass board across. Storage for gerry cans is available behind the engines. This space fits 3 easy and maybe a fourth can. We had a little trouble with a leaky gas jug which would have been dangerous if the compartment was not so well ventilated.

During the delivery I had some of the best catamaran sailing ever I have experienced. The smooth motion and minimal slapping even in 10-foot seas and a line squall was the best takeaway from the delivery. Through the windward passage and most of the Caribbean passage, we had 10 to 20 knots of north east wind and following seas. When light we put up the gennaker for a day and a half and made 6 to 7 knots in 5 to 15 knots downwind. As the wind picked up, we put out the jib and main and made 7 or even 8 knots consistently. Our last night in somewhat squally conditions we hit a very unsafe 12 knots before blowing the jib. Upwind we could sail at a reasonable clip of 6 knots up to 60 degrees off apparent wind. Otherwise as we were in delivery mode, we kicked on the iron genny, blew the sails, and motored at 7+ knots.

The premier you pay for a Leopard versus a Lagoon is justified, and for offshore sailing, I would recommend the Leopard. The softer offshore performance, high quality materials, and navigation station comfort give the Leopard my edge. The Lagoon has better interior space, visibility, and airiness. Expect to pay around $600k versus $500k for a late model Leopard 46 compared to an equivalent Lagoon 440.

Tags Catamaran Reviews

Leopard 40 VS Lagoon 380 catamaran charter

In this post, I would like to explain why I choose a Leopard 40 catamaran instead of a Lagoon 380, which actually, was my first choice for Charters Eleven’s catamaran charter .

I spent a couple of seasons in Ibiza being the proud captain of a Lagoon 380 . A Good looking cat, good sailing features, very handy, not too big, not too small, perfect for chartering…I loved it!!

It was my baby even though I was just the captain for four months a year.

Don’t ask me why, but sailors treat boats as something more than a piece of floating material. As my friend Z would say “Amigo, that’s because they have a name”…maybe, but I also named my old car and I’ve never had the feeling that I have with a boat.

Speak of the devil!… here I’m, happy with the amazing Lagoon 380

Anyway, as I said, I was familiar with the 380. The Lagoon was Charters Eleven’s first choice when hunting a catamaran charter .

Before finding Geronimo, the Leopard 40 catamaran, the only knowledge I had about Leopard Catamarans was what I found in magazines and on the internet.

I had never seen one myself. Almost every catamaran sailing the Mediterranean is built in Europe, more precisely in France. Fountain Pajot, Lagoon, Nautitech, Outremer…they all have the shipyard on the coast of “La France”.

The first time I’ve checked out the Leopard 40 Catamaran myself I thought

“that’s it, that’s the one”

The only thing I didn’t like was the price and the name “Aristocat” 😀

That is Aristocat! Why I named the catamaran Geronimo it’s a long funny story…maybe for next post 😉

I do not want to bore you with information you don’t really care when coming as a catamaran charter customer, as my purpose here, is to talk about what matters to you, once stepping on board.

Quality and design of C11’s catamaran charter

My first time on the Leopard 40 catamaran I found quality materials, layout, and design, better than on the Lagoon 380. To me, only bettered in much larger catamarans.

The cherrywood panelling abounds, the large sliding see-through door to the saloon, the large good looking twin door fridge/freezer, furniture… all of that, place the Leopard 40 one step beyond the Lagoon 380.

Besides, the Leopard 40 catamaran is finished throughout with smart touches such as…

A rubbish bin with top access from the galley and side access from the saloon.
A secure and separated dish drainer compartment
Sunshades at the cockpit
As the freezer is port side below the nav station, you can pass beers 🙂 straight from the fridge to the galley bench, or back table, or the saloon, quite easily. Very handy!!

Trust me, those small and simple details, make life easier on board.

If you would like more info, there is a good review in Cruising Helmsman Magazine. It did make me understand what kind of catamaran the Leopard 40 is.

Simply a really good one.

The trampoline

What’s a Catamaran without a trampoline? Just nothing else than a piece of fiberglass 🙂

A prominent feature of the Leopard’s trampoline is its bold design.

It’s Roomy as there is no platform for the anchor’s chain crossing the trampoline.
Safer , with doubled-up cordage, freeing it from the common problem of a single failure causing the whole tramp to let go.
Quality material. Not made out of ropes, like a fishing net, but all in one piece, which also makes it much more comfortable . Guaranteed!

Leopard’s trampoline

Catamaran Charter, Lagoon 380 trampoline

A good pic of the Lagoon with the anchor’s chain platform crossing the trampoline.

On the Leopard 40 catamaran, not only the trampoline but also the area just before it. Is roomier than on the Lagoon 380, allowing customers not only to sit down but also to lie in the sun.

A beautiful pic of the Leopard 40 catamaran to realize how roomy is the bow area.

Fridge – freezer

Is essential on a cruising catamaran, especially if you stay on board for an overnight charter .

Lagoon’s fridge at the right side.

Leopard has a combined, twin-door (220 Lts) fridge/freezer.

It doubles the capacity of the Lagoon’s fridge.

As simple as that!

Leopard layout with the fridge/freezer at the entrance

The Leopard fully enclosed shower.

While the Leopard 40 has A fully enclosed hot water shower, on the Lagoon 380 it is necessary to pull the tap out of the sink and hang it up to have a shower.

Everything will eventually get wet… sink, mirror, toilet…

Lagoon 380 shower/bathroom

Well, again, the smart Leopard design makes it more roomy and open than the 380. Come and check it out 😉

The enclosed Lagoon 380 Cockpit

With its integrated sunshades, the Leopard 40 catamaran also provides full sun protection at the cockpit. Believe me, that’s appreciated when anchoring on a sunny cove!

catamaran charter, geronimo from the top

The aisle at the rear of the Leopard 40 catamaran provides a handy and nice open area

Of course, after three years on board our Leopard 40 catamaran, there are things I would change and improve, but I’m really happy with my choice, and sincerely, customers are also positively surprised with Geronimo, either they come for an overnight charter or a day charter.

Priceless!!Was not my first time in ibiza/formentera on a boat but this was definitely the best one!! After 5x on the island, we were able to see and experience stuff we never did.If you’re looking for an experience for life, please go to him! Every cent you will spend worth due to what you’re gonna experience!!Simplemente fantástico! Gracias Fede!!

Fantastic day sailingThe whole experience was smooth and professional, from the first contact with Fede who answered all my questions quickly and clearly, to contact the day before to arrange the meeting place etc, to the amazing day itself. The yacht is beautiful and very comfortable. We swam in the sea, using masks, snorkels and fins available on the boat, used the stand up paddleboard, and relaxed on the bow as we sailed.

Amazing day out on a beautiful catamaran Thank you so much Fede for a fantastic day on your beautiful Catamaran! We all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and found it such a relaxing and amazing way to explore the beautiful island.So easy to get in touch with via watsapp. We felt very lucky you were able to accommodate us at short notice! Highly recommend. 🙂

Best experience in IbizaFederico and Bellen made sure we had the best time enjoying clear waters, seeing beautiful Calas and smaller islands and ultimately enjoying the famous sunset in Ibiza . For sure highlight of our trip!

it’s mandatory to say that both catamarans, the Leopard 40 and the Lagoon 380, with similar features and size, are just amazing sailing boats.

As Forest Gump used to say…It’s all I have to say about that. 🙂

Many thanks for reading this post.

Marriage Proposal in Ibiza aboard a Catamaran

Catamaran Charter Ibiza Formentera

Catamaran Hire Ibiza Formentera

Who Makes The Best Power Catamaran?

By Robert Bowman | Posted On Sep 15, 2022 Updated On May 03, 2023

The story of the evolution of the power catamaran can be broken down to a simple act of marital duty. it was the 1940's and Ray Leger loved to fish off of the California coast with his wife Evelyn. Ray had been a carpenter and capitalized on the booming Southern California housing market after World War 2, later using his skills and equipment to construct fishing boats. Evelyn would routinely suffer from seasickness, a problem that Ray needed to solve in order to keep fishing. Knowing that a catamaran offered greater stability, Ray set out to build one with outboard motors. The first one, an 18-foot cabin cruiser, was outfitted with twin 33hp outboards. By the 1960's, construction had moved to fiberglass hulls and the popularity quickly soared.

Today, power catamarans are among the fastest growing segments in the marine industry, as are sailing catamarans . A recent report shows that the global catamaran market as a whole is worth over $4 billion and has an annual growth rate of over 6%. That's nearly double what the average CAGR (compound annual growth rate) is for the boating industry in total.

The transition to power cats really came from charter customers in the Caribbean that would vacation on sailing cats in the BVI's for weeks at a time. The catamarans offered greater stability, but also an incredible amount of space on board thanks to the wider beams. But people on vacation enjoying the trip would end up using the small engines most of the time as sailing comes with a certain amount of effort. Now it's common to see power catmarans in charter in the Caribbean, as well as privately owned boats behind someone's house.

As more boaters get exposed to the benefits of power catamarans, the number of builders has grown as well. Power cat brands like Aquila Boats , as an example, weren't around in the early 2000's, but are now a common boat to see all over Florida or the Northeast. Prestige Yachts also just released their very first power cat into the market, the M48. Trying to claim that one power catamaran builder is the "best" among all of the others is a tough decision as there are many factors. If judged by number of units sold over the last 10 years, then Leopard is the best power catamaran builder in the industry. Looking at boats sold globally in the MLS over the last decade, Leopard Catamarans sold 40% more vessels than the second leading power cat builder, Fountain Pajot . Other notable power cat brands that led in overall sales were Endeavor, Lagoon, and Aquila.

(Below: On the extreme luxury power catamaran market, the Sunreef 80 is among the best.)

Video by: @NautiStyles

While the number of boats sold into the marketplace is a sign of strength in a builder, it also may not necessarily equate to 'being the best power catamaran' in terms of quality. Like with monohulls, there are varying degrees of both quality and price when it comes to the subsects of the power cat industry. Both Sunreef and Horizon Yachts have expanded into large luxury power cats that, even when more than 10 years old, can still command more than $2 million as an asking price.

One way to tell if the catamaran you're buying is well-recognized for its quality is to look at some of the recent award winners. Many of the editors of multi-hull focused magazines are experts in this category and have real-life experiences on dozens of different models. Here are a few notable ones:

Fountaine Pajot MY4.S won the 2022 Multi-Hull of the Year Award for its category (36.1' and reaches 22 knots!)
The Aquila 54 won 2021 Multi-hull of the Year
The Leopard 53 Power Cat won 2020 Multi-Hull of the Year
The Lagoon 55 won the 2021 British Yachting Awards

(Below: The new Fountaine Pajot MY4.S offers a new 'sport top' style for the longtime catamaran builder.)

Whether you're purchasing a new or pre-owned power catamaran, its resale value is of the utmost importance. Nothing can stifle your enthusiasm when you are trying to sell your existing yacht only to have it sit on the market for a long time while diminishing in value. If this is of concern to you, the best advice is to stick with the more mainstream, reputable catamaran builders. Boats with odd layouts, underpowered engines, outlandish decor, and other out-of-the-norm equipment can cause your boat to sit on the market longer than anticipated.

The market demand has also improved in recent years. Over the last decade, power catamarans took roughly 330 days to sell. Almost a full year! Since 2020, however, that amount of time has decreased by 19%. Among the builders that sold within 100 days of hitting the market, Aquila, Endeavor, Fountaine Pajot, Leopard, and Robertson & Caine were prominent.

(Below: The Aquila 54 Power Catamaran has a tri-deck design with a beam of over 25-feet.)

At United Yacht Sales, we have over 250 experienced yacht brokers worldwide. Many have years of real hands-on experience with power catamarans, sailing cats, sailboats, and other similar vessels. We can assist you in the sale of your current yacht, or represent you in the purchase of a new one. Call us today at 1-772-463-3131 and we will connect you with the right sales professional that perfectly sits your needs and situation.

Also Read: Are Power Catamarans Good In Rough Water?

Interesting Boating Links

Worldwide yacht sales.

Trawlers For Sale in California
Yachts For Sale NC
Used Mega Yachts For Sale
Boat Trader Canada
Yacht Locator
Boats For Sale Charleston SC
Boats For Sale Cape Cod
Custom Sportfish For Sale
Trawlers For Sale New York
Nicest Yachts
Boats For Sale Washington
Million Dollar Yacht
Virginia Yacht Brokers
50 Million Dollar Yacht
Boats For Sale in Maryland

Luxury Boats & Yachts

Trawlers For Sale in Texas
Prestige Yachts
Yachts For Sale Near Me
Rybovich For Sale
Azimut Yachts Price
Sabre 42 For Sale
Yachts For Sale by Price
Hinckley Yachts For Sale
Used Center Console Boats For Sale in Florida
Broward Yachts
Yacht Brokers Near Me

Popular Builders & Models

Sea Ray 58 Sedan Bridge
Sea Ray 460 Sundancer For Sale
Offshore Racing Boats For Sale
Motor Yacht
54 Hatteras Motor Yacht For Sale
Used Edgewater Boats For Sale
44 Sea Ray Sundancer For Sale
Motorsailer
Power Catamaran
Aft Cabin Boats For Sale
50 Ft Viking

Trending Brands & Types

Ranger Tug Boats For Sale
Smith Boats
Kadey Krogen Yachts
Beneteau For Sale
Ocean Alexander 72 For Sale
Used Jupiter Boats For Sale
Davis Boats
Contender Bay Boats For Sale
Carver For Sale
Used Egg Harbor Boats
60 Marquis Yacht
Meridian For Sale
Yachts For Sale Fort Lauderdale
Cheoy Lee Boats
Sport Fishing Yachts For Sale

SEND UYS A MESSAGE

Yachting World

Digital Edition

Multihulls: owners’ experiences and reviews

Toby Hodges
January 18, 2019

How do you select the right catamaran to best suit your cruising? Learning from other owners is a good place to start

They have two different boats, different sailing plans and two very different sets of experience. But what these cruisers have in common is a desire to explore in two hulls rather than one. Hal Haltom explains how he drew on decades of monohull sailing to choose a relatively light displacement Outremer 51 for the World ARC, while David Weible and Kellie Peterson tell of their snap decision to sell up and set sail in a Lagoon 42. They share hard won tips about setting up the boat for ambitious cruising and give an insight into life at sea.

Hal Haltom – Outremer 51

Hal Haltom, 59, from Texas, bought an Outremer 51 in 2016 and set off on the World ARC that winter. With his wife Marsha and daughter Haley, he has sailed more than 27,000 miles across the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans to reach South Africa and believes that it makes sense to buy a lighter boat that performs better in light winds.

We did two trips through the eastern and western Caribbean with our kids about 10 years ago on a Tayana 52 monohull. This time we switched to a catamaran because it had features that we thought were better: living above the waterline, level (and not rolly) and easier sail handling. Once we decided to switch, we started looking at the available boats in our price range. My wife Marsha and I have raced sailboats for many years and we wanted a better sailing cat, which ruled out the heavier ones. At the Miami Boat Show in early 2015 we looked at a Catana and St Francis but it was an Outremer 51 that interested us . Afterwards, we flew to the company’s factory in La Grande- Motte in southern France and were impressed. We thought the Outremer 51 was a boat that a couple in their 50s could handle and we ordered one and took delivery in May 2016.

Fit for bluewater

Ours is the base boat with only a few options added because Outremer builds a boat that is ready to go bluewater cruising. We have an aluminium mast, Mastervolt lithium battery system (360Ah at 24V), Dessalator watermaker, 560W of solar panels, and a Watt & Sea hydrogenerator. All this equipment worked well. As did the B&G instruments, Lecomble & Schmitt autopilot, Volvo D2-40 engines, and Incidence and Delta Voile sails. We don’t have a diesel generator. Sailing on a sunny day, we can run the watermaker using only the batteries and on a cloudy day, I may need to turn on an engine for an hour or so. Each engine has a 110A alternator running through a Sterling booster. At anchor, we rely on the solar panels, which is all that is needed in the Tropics.

My advice would be to buy a boat that sails well and handles easily. Also, I would keep the equipment as simple as possible while maintaining the comfort level you need. Passagemaking is hard on boats. A light boat requires less effort to sail and a simpler boat requires less maintenance and repair. Even though our boat is a light cat, we have found it to be well-built and comfortable. Outremer has also been very responsive in dealing with any issues during the two-year warranty period and beyond. After spending the summer cruising the Mediterranean, it was time to head off on our big adventure. We left La Grande-Motte in October 2017. We sailed to Spain and Gibraltar and crossed the Atlantic to St Lucia in November 2017 with the ARC+ rally. We joined the World ARC rally in St Lucia and sailed to Panama, through the canal, across the Pacific to Australia, and then across the Indian Ocean to Richards Bay, South Africa, where we are now.

The three of us have sailed more than 27,000 miles and are pleased with our choice of boat. Fast cruising is enjoyable and it is always good to get into port sooner. We typically sail in tradewind conditions at boat speeds of 8 to 10 knots. We had six 200-plus mile days in a row during our crossing of the Pacific from the Galapagos to the Marquesas. During our Indian Ocean crossing we had 30-plus knots of wind for several days and 4m seas. The boat also performed well in those conditions. When cruising, you see more light air than heavy air and it is very nice to have a boat that will sail fast in light air. An additional benefit of a fast cat that is often not mentioned is the ability to sail with a reduced sail area and still go fast. We often sail with two or three reefs in the main and just our working jib in 15 knots of wind, which makes the boat very easy to handle, while still going fast. Another advantage is with narrow hulls and a smaller saloon the side decks are wider, which make moving around much safer. Our huge foredeck also makes sail handling much safer and easier, with less stress all round as we move through the water.

David Weible and Kellie Peterson – Lagoon 42

Kellie Peterson and David Weible owners of Lagoon 42

David Weible had a liveaboard adventure on a leaky monohull many years ago but he and his partner Kellie still managed to surprise themselves when they decided to sell their Florida home and go cruising. They chose a Lagoon 42 and, with few regrets, have just crossed the Atlantic to Saint Lucia after a summer in the Med.

A little more than a year ago, we were riding our bikes across the playa at the Burning Man festival in Nevada when a dust storm rolled in. We took refuge in a lighthouse art installation, talked about our dreams and hatched a plan: sell everything, buy a sailboat, sail the globe — and share our story on YouTube. Four months later, we made an offer on a Tartan 44 monohull in St Petersburg, Florida. A sea trial and inspection revealed major issues, so we kept looking for another bluewater cruising boat. In February, we flew to San Diego to see a Tayana – another disappointment. But the effort wasn’t a total loss: we discovered catamarans. We looked at Leopard, Fountaine-Pajot and Lagoon. When we boarded the Lagoon 42, a comfortable catamaran that could really take us places, we were sold.

The delights

Lagoon 42 Starship Friendship catamaran at sea

Hull #300 was delivered in August. We moved aboard on a Saturday and set sail across the Bay of Biscay the following Wednesday. Sitting at anchor in Spain, navigating narrow rivers in Portugal, picking our way through the Atlantic fog, surfing big swells on the way to Madeira, lounging with the wildlife in the Selvagens and currently sailing across the Atlantic Ocean have all added up nicely and validated our decision to buy the catamaran.

Starship Friendship handles a lot better than we expected. These heavier cruising catamarans sail really well with the right sail plan, but they do come with a relatively conservative set-up. The square-top main, Code 0 and ACH cruising chute options are a must. On a dead run, speed over ground exceeds half of the true wind speed; up to 45° into the wind, with 15 knots or more, she does even better. On a beam reach, she nearly matches true wind speed; fly the chute in as little as 8 knots and she’ll keep a comfortable walking pace downwind. In a solid swell, she’s balanced and comfortable. Crew members suffer little or no seasickness and are not worn out after longer passages.

We still have a wishlist of improvements including a dual battery charger for 110V and 220V, painted bow compartments to avoid fibreglass itchiness, an accessible place for wet gear and fishing tools, and a bit more solar and battery capacity (oh, and a Parasailor too). The broker recommended two rigid LG300 solar panels, which put out roughly 270W each at max output. This is not enough to run all systems on the boat, so when we go offshore, the generator becomes a necessity – we run it for roughly four hours per day. If money were no object we would have loved to put a custom stainless attachment above the dingy davit with three or four panels, which would be the correct amount of power necessary for our boat. Otherwise, we have not done much to her. The lighting indoor and outdoor is bright and does not have dim or colour option. We put red spinnaker tape over our lights when offshore to create a more friendly night environment and intend to have red lighting in the Caribbean. We also installed an electric toilet in the owner’s cabin, which has been really nice. The helm station is a hot topic among Lagoon 42 owners. It’s a love-hate relationship. A lot of owners find the seat uncomfortable and too short. We have seen many modifications. In bad weather we are cautious and always use safety tethers while at the helm. We run a piece of webbing on occasion from the arm rail on the seat to the grab rail on the helm for additional safety in heavy conditions.

Our only real regret is that we were rushed to meet our Atlantic crossing deadline. Buyers benefit from more time and support during the handover. Details like setting up the boat, walking through the installed gear, testing the systems and reviewing best practices make the experience less stressful and more satisfying for those with resources on hand. If we ever pick up a new boat again, it would make sense to deal directly with a local representative — having boots on the ground seems to improve the experience for those we’ve talked to. Our friends in the Lagoon community rave about the assistance they received with warranties, training, and delivery services from local agents. That said, would we buy again? Yes. The stability, easy sailing rig, forgiving design and comfortable floor plan deliver one hell of a good lifestyle.

The Starship makes cruising easy and handles a variety of conditions comfortably. Her reliable performance under sail has made our passages pretty awesome. From France to Gibraltar, Tangier to Madeira, Salvagen to Cape Verde and across the ocean — the voyages of Starship Friendship have been stellar. She’s even a bit famous. The YouTube channel ‘Sailing Starship Friendship ’ chronicles all the good and the bad. Luckily, the stability of a catamaran makes editing at sea easy and new episodes are published every Sunday – even in big seas and strong winds!

Multihulls: new yacht reviews

Yes, the racing world is stretching the boundaries, with 100ft foiling maxi trimarans tearing around the globe and F50s, the…

Review: Silent 55, the extraordinary solar powered yacht

There is a slow, silent revolution under way in the yachting world. It is a revolution that is introducing tonnes…

BOAT OF THE YEAR
Newsletters
Sailboat Reviews
Boating Safety
Sails and Rigging
Maintenance
Sailing Totem
Sailor & Galley
Living Aboard
Destinations
Gear & Electronics
Charter Resources
Ultimate Boating Giveaway

Leopard 42 Boat Review

By Herb McCormick
Updated: July 23, 2021

Mick Jagger was not singing about boat tests and wind speeds when he belted out the title lyrics to the classic Rolling Stones tune “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.” Far too often during many years of conducting sea trials on new boats—when you’re locked into a tight, non negotiable schedule for getting on the water—I’ve shown up just in time for a languid spell of very light air or, even worse, zippo breeze whatsoever. Definitely not what you want.

But there are also those lucky afternoons when you get what’s required for a sweet sail. Which pretty much describes the conditions this past spring when I rolled into a marina near Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for a test run aboard the new Leopard 42 catamaran , and was greeted by windswept palm trees and a stiff 20- to 25-knot easterly whipping up whitecaps on the deep blue Atlantic.

What’s the line, “When you try sometimes…you get what you need”? Exactly. And in this instance, then some.

Generally speaking, cruising cats are different than their spindly racing siblings: more tankage, more machinery, more furniture, more stuff. Which means they don’t maximize sailing performance in lighter conditions (nor are they attempting to…that’s why they’re cruising boats). But give a well-designed, well-built cat with liveaboard capabilities some legitimate air pressure to play with, and the results can be eye-popping. (Or not, frankly. Lots of wind can be too much for some lesser vessels.) Which was most certainly the case with the latest Leopard under sail in the double-digit gusts. Where she thrived.

Naval architect Alex Simonis—based near the wild, windy waters off Cape Town, South Africa—is the longtime designer of Leopard cats, and a man who relishes drafting solid boats that sail and perform exceedingly well (for proof, have another look at this month’s cover shot of a Leopard 42 hauling the mail in the shadow of iconic Table Mountain). His willing partners in this crime of nautical passion are the artisans at Robertson & Caine, the boatyard that in 2022 will build approximately 120 to 130 sailing cats ranging in size from 42 to 50 feet. It’s true that the company could probably expand production based on the current and ongoing demand for Leopards, but that would run counter to the builder’s very ethos: Quality is the aim here, not quantity.

As we motored out of the inlets and into the open sea for the trials, I’ll admit that I was so relishing the sail that it never occurred to me to jot down the relevant statistics—speed, high and low RPM, etc.—for the twin 45 hp Yanmar diesels. My bad. Let’s just say we got out there smoothly and quickly.

Leopard was conducting a mini boat show at its docks in Dania Beach that upcoming weekend, so there was an all-star crew of sailmakers and company reps aboard, including Franck Bauguil, an executive at travel conglomerate Travelopia, whose brands include the privately owned Leopards, and chartering giants Sunsail and the Moorings, and whose duties include product development—a fancy title that actually means he spends a lot of time hanging with Simonis while sailing around and dreaming up cool boats. As we powered into the chop, I mentioned something about a reef, and Bauguil gave me a sidelong look of disappointment, like a resigned parent inspecting a horrible report card. Full hoist it was. As the full-battened, deeply roached, square-topped mainsail was raised, I had a brief thought about singer/songwriter Cat Power, for it was abundantly clear what was powering this darn cat.

It’s interesting to note the difference between the Leopard’s sail plan and, say, the current approach from one of the big French production-cat builders like Lagoon. In recent years, Lagoon, as a brand, has made a conscious decision to slide the entire rig aft, depending more on an expansive foretriangle for drive and grunt, and taming the entire arrangement with a self-tacking headsail. With the Leopards, including the 42, the rig remains comparably forward, and it’s the mainsail, with a relatively longer boom than a Lagoon, that supplies the muscle (we’re talking basically a low-aspect main and rig on a Leopard versus a high-aspect one on the Lagoon), aided and abetted by an overlapping 110 percent headsail that’s tacked like a traditional sailboat. I honestly can’t say if there’s a right or wrong answer here, but it’s fascinating to recognize and compare the differing philosophies.

Back in the real world, I’d ascended the four steps to the starboard helm station, which is where you’ll find the wheel on every Leopard; in such matters, these guys are unabashed creatures of habit. The surrounding view was expansive but, more pertinently, within arm’s length I had everything—and I mean everything —required to sail and command the boat: a trio of electric winches (two of which are standard), mainsheet and jib sheets and rope clutches, a nifty traveler setup, dual engine controls, chart plotter and related sailing instruments, and so on. For the most part, across the board, catamaran designers these days lay out decks with the notion and objective that it takes only one sharp sailor to run the whole bloody show, and the Leopard 42 certainly perfects that concept.

After motoring off the coast for sea room, we hardened up to a close reach, and matters became extremely interesting, not to mention noisy and blowy. Which was great. The cat trucked along at a solid 8.5 knots, but what struck me the most was how solid and steadfast she felt as she cleaved through the chop; the sensation of the twin hulls of a fine cat in exquisite balance really does feel like a freight train on its rails.

But the real fun happens when you crack off and free up the wind angle, and the Leopard leaped at the course change and eased sheets, flirting with 10 knots on a screaming reach. We did have a bit of a fire drill when a blast of wind caught the corner of the furled code zero—which then, of course, started to totally unfurl—and I got my day’s cardio helping drop and corral the beast on the trampolines. Extremely good times.

Back at the dock, all systems once again calm and shipshape, I had a chance to wander the decks and interior. The look and feel of the features and accoutrements are totally modern, as in ultra-contemporary (more than once in my notebook the word “angular” appears). The profile is enhanced by tinted, continuous side windows in the hull, and the coach roof segues into the hard Bimini that’s carried aft and canopies the cockpit. Up top—on the penthouse, so to speak—there’s an inviting lounge space. There’s a marvelous afterdeck and swim platform, features for which I have an extremely soft spot. The cockpit has a fine-dining area to port, opposite the helm.

The galley is forward in the roomy central cabin, with the dining table aft to port. The 42 doesn’t have the forward cockpit employed on larger models, but there is a watertight front doovate owner’s cabin to starboard (with desk, vanity, flat-screen TV, huge head, etc.) and a pair of staterooms to port, but you can spec out the interior in multiple ways: tr that leads to a pair of sun lounges, the tramps, and an optional fixed bowsprit if you’re going with the performance package that includes the code zero. Our test boat had the pretty awesome private owner’s cabin to starboard (with desk, vanity, flat-screen TV, huge head, etc.) and a pair of staterooms to port, but you can spec out the interior in multiple ways: three or four cabins, three or four heads, six or eight berths, three or four showers. The four-cabin, four-head configuration is likely what you’ll find if you charter one; about half the production run is bound for the bareboat fleets.

The Leopard 42 replaces the Leopard 40 in the brand’s quiver, and is certainly a more substantial ride in every notable way. The only problem, really, is that as the world emerges from these pandemic times, they’re going fast. The 42 might be quick, but if you want one, you need to be even quicker.

Specifications Leopard 42

LENGTH OVERALL	41’7″ (12.67 m)
WATERLINE LENGTH	40’10” (12.4 m)
BEAM	23’1″ (7.04 m)
DRAFT	4’7″ (1.4 m)
BRIDGEDECK CLEARANCE	2’6″ (0.75 m)
SAIL AREA (STANDARD)	1,217 sq. ft. (113 sq. m)
DISPLACEMENT (Light ship)	27,485 lb. (12,467 kg.)
DISPLACEMENT/LENGTH	179
SAIL AREA/DISPLACEMENT	21.4
WATER	174 gal. (660 L)
FUEL	158 gal. (600 L)
MAST HEIGHT	67’10” (20.7 m)
ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS	Twin 45 hp Yanmars with saildrives
DESIGNER	Simonis & Voogd
PRICE (fully equipped and delivered)	$689,000

Wind speed	20 to 24 knots
Sea state	Choppy
Sailing	Closehauled 8.5 knots/ Reaching 9.8 knots
Motoring	Cruise: N/A/ Fast: N/A

Herb McCormick is CW ’s executive editor.

More: Boat Reviews , catamaran , leopard , multihull , multihulls , print June 2021 , Sailboat Reviews , Sailboats
More Sailboats

Pre-Owned: 1988 Hylas 47

Catalina Introduces the 6 Series

Sailboat Preview: Elan GT6 Explorer

For Sale: 1984 Camper & Nicholsons 58

Galápagos: A Paradise Worth the Paperwork

Around Alone

Grease the Wheels of Your Boat: A Guide to Proper Lubrication

A Bowsprit Reborn: A DIY Renovation Story

Digital Edition
Customer Service
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use
Email Newsletters
Cruising World
Sailing World
Salt Water Sportsman
Sport Fishing
Wakeboarding

Better Sailing

Lagoon Catamaran Review: Are Lagoon Catamarans Good?

Lagoon Catamarans, renowned in the sailing world, belongs to the prestigious Beneteau Group. But the question often arises, especially among prospective boat buyers: Are Lagoon Catamarans genuinely worth the investment? This article dives deep into the pros and cons, shedding light on whether these boats live up to their reputation.

Introduction to Lagoon Catamarans

The popularity of catamarans in recent years has soared, thanks in no small part to brands like Lagoon, which has consistently rolled out models that cater to various sailing needs. With a range of offerings from the compact Lagoon 380 to the luxurious flagship 620, Lagoon seems to have something for everyone. But what are the actual advantages and potential pitfalls of these vessels?

Pros of Lagoon Catamarans:

Space & Comfort: One of Lagoon’s undeniable strengths is the design emphasis on space and comfort. Stepping aboard a Lagoon, you’re greeted with a spacious saloon, often bathed in natural light and facilitated by panoramic windows. The cabins are generously sized, and there’s ample deck space for sunbathing, dining, or simply taking in the view. For long-haul sailors or liveaboards, this emphasis on comfort can make a world of difference.
Stability: Catamarans are inherently stable due to their dual-hull design, and Lagoons are no exception. This stability makes for a smoother sailing experience, especially in choppy waters. It can be a godsend for those prone to seasickness.
Resale Value: With strong brand recognition comes good resale value. Lagoon catamarans, known globally, tend to retain their value well, particularly if they’ve been maintained correctly.
Diverse Range: Whether you’re a weekend sailor or planning a circumnavigation, Lagoon has a model to fit your needs. This variety ensures that there’s likely a boat that fits both your sailing ambitions and your budget.
Charter Popularity: Lagoon catamarans are a staple in charter fleets worldwide. Their space, stability, and user-friendly design make them a favorite among vacationers. This could be a plus if you’re considering placing your boat in a charter program.

>>Also Read: 10 Best Catamaran Brands

Cons of Lagoon Catamarans:

Performance: The flip side of Lagoon’s emphasis on comfort is that they’re often not the racers of the catamaran world. While they’ll get you to your destination reliably, they might not do it as quickly as some of their sleeker counterparts like Outremer or Gunboat.
Mass Production: Lagoon’s large-scale production model ensures consistent quality, but some sailing purists feel that these boats lack the soul and individuality of custom or semi-custom boats.
Price Point: A new Lagoon, especially from their more luxurious range, can make quite a dent in your wallet. However, this premium pricing is not unique to Lagoon but is characteristic of large, modern catamarans in general.
Maintenance Concerns: As with all boats, maintenance is vital. However, some Lagoon owners have pinpointed specific issues with particular models. A thorough pre-purchase survey is crucial, especially if you’re considering a used model.
Heavy Charter Use: The very popularity of Lagoons in charter fleets can be a double-edged sword. While it’s a testament to their reliability, it also means that many second-hand Lagoons on the market might have been heavily used, necessitating closer inspection before purchase.

Getting a Feel for Lagoon Catamarans:

If you’re seriously considering a Lagoon Catamaran, whether for private use or charter, the best advice would be to spend some time on one. Chartering a Lagoon for a week-long vacation, for instance, can provide valuable firsthand experience. Here are a few steps you can take:

Charter Before Buying: Many companies offer Lagoon catamarans in their fleets. A charter not only allows you to get a feel for the boat’s handling and performance but also its living spaces, ergonomics, and overall vibe. It’s a small investment that can provide valuable insights.
Connect with Owners: There’s a large and active Lagoon owners community. Engaging with them, either online or in person, can give you a clearer picture of ownership joys and challenges. They can share maintenance tips, favorite features, and even things they’d like to change about their boats.
Attend Boat Shows: Lagoon often displays their models at major boat shows around the world. These events are an excellent opportunity to tour different models, ask questions, and see the latest innovations. Representatives at these shows can offer insights into each model’s design philosophy and features.
Consider Customization: While Lagoon catamarans are produced on a large scale, there’s room for customization, especially in the interior. If you’re purchasing new, explore how you can tweak the boat to fit your specific needs and tastes.

>>Also Read: 10 Best Catamarans Under 200k

The Future of Lagoon:

Lagoon continues to innovate, releasing newer models that incorporate feedback from owners and advancements in marine technology. Their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly design is also noteworthy, with many newer models offering options like hydro-generators, solar panels, and more efficient engines.

Navigating Your Choice:

Purchasing a boat, especially one as significant as a Lagoon Catamaran, is a journey in itself, both metaphorically and potentially literally. As you contemplate making this significant investment, consider the following strategies to ensure you’re making an informed choice:

Test Sail: Whenever possible, arrange for a test sail. While chartering provides a more extended experience, a test sail allows you to feel the boat’s behavior under different conditions, understand its maneuverability, and gauge its responsiveness.
Financing and Insurance: Before making a purchase, research the best financing options available for your situation. Lagoon Catamarans are a considerable investment, and understanding your monthly commitments, interest rates, and terms can save you from future surprises. Similarly, get quotes from various marine insurance providers. Insurance rates can vary based on the model, age, and intended use of the catamaran.
Maintenance and After-sales Support: One of the benefits of opting for a reputable brand like Lagoon is the extensive after-sales support and the availability of parts. However, it’s still essential to establish a relationship with local service providers or marinas to ensure your catamaran is always in top condition.
Training and Crew: If you’re new to catamarans or sailing in general, investing in a comprehensive training course can be invaluable. Larger catamarans can have unique handling characteristics, and understanding them can significantly enhance your safety and enjoyment. Additionally, consider the dynamics and skills of your crew or family members if you’re planning extended cruises.
Destination Planning: Lagoon Catamarans are designed for both coastal cruising and blue-water passages. As you dream about your future voyages, research destinations that are particularly catamaran-friendly. Some places offer dedicated moorings, services, and facilities tailored to larger multihulls.

Lagoon Cats Review: Are Lagoon Catamarans Good? – Conclusion:

In the world of catamarans, Lagoon holds a significant position, balancing luxury with practicality. While they may not be the fastest cats on the water, they are well-suited to those who prioritize comfort and space, making them ideal for extended cruises or living aboard by many sailors around the world.

If you’re considering a Lagoon, or any boat for that matter, always remember that no vessel will be perfect in every aspect. It’s about finding the right balance that suits your sailing aspirations, lifestyle, and budget. The seascape of choices is vast and varied; take your time, do your research, and soon enough, you’ll find your ideal floating home.

However, as with any significant investment, potential buyers must consider what they value most in a vessel. If speed and performance are top priorities, then other brands might be a better fit. But for a balanced blend of comfort, style, and reliability, Lagoon stands tall in the catamaran market. As always, personal experience is the best determinant, so chartering a Lagoon or joining an owner for a sail might be the best way to see if it’s the right fit for you.

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Fishing Line for Trolling

Best Inboard Boat Engine Brands

Are O’Day Sailboats Good? A Closer Look at a Classic Brand

Maximizing Comfort on Your Boat: Essential Supplies and Amenities

Buyer's Guide
Destinations
Maintenance
Sailing Info

Hit enter to search or ESC to close.

Competitions
British Yachting Awards
Southampton Boat Show
Print Subscription
Digital Subscription
Single Issues
Advertise with us

Your special offer

Subscribe to Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting today!

Save 32% on the shop price when to subscribe for a year at just £39.95

Subscribe to Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting!

Save 32% on the shop price when you subscribe for a year at just £39.95

Lagoon 42 – tested and reviewed

New rig, level living area and sweeter lines – small changes make the new lagoon 42 a slick package.

ST’s Lagoon 42 verdict:

Cruising catamarans are not to everyone’s taste, but the pros and cons versus monohulls are well known. The Lagoon, however, enjoys more sympathetic styling than some of her contemporaries. Beneteau clearly has the financial muscle to indulge in some serious R&D before commissioning a new boat and it shines through in the Lagoon. She has been carefully and thoughtfully put together and represents a refinement and distillation of all its considerable experience in this field.

The helming station was a prime example of this approach, as it delivered most of the benefits of a bridge deck helming station without leaving the helmsman isolated, as is often the case with this arrangement. I was also impressed by the directness and ‘feel’ of the helm, which was a refreshing contrast with many cruising multihulls.

Performance : 3.5/5 Comfort : 5/5 Bluewater : 3/5 Price : From £234,000 Dealer : ancasta.com

Insure this yacht with Craftinsure from £1,102.03

Master cabin

Plenty of beam aft means there is room for a good sized double berth. Note the extensive portlights and hatches

Master heads

In the owner’s layout, the master heads to starboard have extensive storage space

Spacious saloon

On any catamaran, it’s the saloon living space which most impresses and the Lagoon 42 excels with a sophisticated design and flush entry to the cockpit

Bulkhead helming

The bulkhead helming position gives visibility over the coachroof, but still allows the skipper to take part in cockpit conversation

Designers VPLP moved the mast back and added a self-tacking jib

The small bowsprit makes it easy to fly downwind sails with deep sheeting angles, while a self-tacking jib runs on a track set into the coachroof. Tests in the Bahamas saw the 42 doing 16kt in about 22kt of breeze.

The saloon, cockpit and aft deck are now all on the same level and the cutaway freeboard makes it easier to step onto the bathing platform when alongside

info heading

info content

Boat Test: New Luxurious Multihull Lagoon 60

Boat Test: Jeanneau Sun Fast 30

Boat Test: New Bavaria C46

Offering a wealth of practical advice and a dynamic mix of in-depth boat, gear and equipment news, Sailing Today is written cover to cover by sailors, for sailors. Since its launch in 1997, the magazine has sealed its reputation for essential sailing information and advice.

Telegraph.co.uk

ADVERTISING

Visit our Popular Forums

Monohull Sailboats
Multihull Sailboats
Powered Boats
General Sailing
Antares Yachts
Fountaine Pajot
Lagoon Catamarans

Cruising Business

Boat Classifieds
General Classifieds
Crew Positions
Commercial Posts
Vendor Spotlight

Life Aboard a Boat

Provisioning: Food & Drink
Families, Kids, & Pets Afloat
Recreation, Entertainment, & Fun
Boat Ownership & Making a Living
Liveaboard's Forum

Seamanship, Navigation & Boat Handling

Seamanship & Boat Handling
Training, Licensing, & Certification
Health, Safety, & Related Gear
Rules of the Road, Regulations, & Red Tape

Engineering & Systems

Const. / Maint. / Refit
Product / Service Reviews
Electronics: Comms / AV
Electrical: Batts / Gen / Solar
Lithium Power Systems
Engines & Propulsion
Propellers & Drive Systems
Plumbing / Fixtures
Deck Hdw: Rigging / Sails
Aux. Equipment & Dinghy
Anchoring & Mooring

Recent Photos

		> >

Please support our sponsors and let them know you heard about their products on Cruisers Forums.

24-08-2022, 13:48
Boat: Jeanneau SO 49	from around 2008-2011 range. of 5, aged 7, 9, and 11. <450K USD. I just reached out to a buyers' agent and he is trying to steer me far clear of "older" and suggesting something shorter and newer, such as a 40/42 in the same . Would be curious to hear anyone's thoughts... Whether it be cars, RVs, or houses, I have always been the type to buy older quality rather than newer for the same , and so far that mentality has served me well. But maybe are different?

24-08-2022, 14:10
Boat: 1987 Sabre 42 C/B	over a newer smaller . From my relative small experience I think the Leopards are better built and older better built generally speaking. I know boats live a really hard life but some of the "wood" I have seen on new cats coming apart is un called for IMO. My 35 year old boats is in better shape than many 1-2 year old cats I have been on. If it was my 500K-1M in the I would be very unhappy with the workmanship. Anyway good luck with your search and future . Foster

24-08-2022, 18:57
Boat: 2013 FP Lipari 41	of thumb is the newest, largest you can afford. Build materials, processes and composite advancements “generally” produce better, lighter boats. The other consideration is that while older cats may seem solid that doesn’t necessarily equate to quality. The has always been my favorite but they’re getting long in the tooth and require not just complete refits but the last one I had surveyed had foot wide sections in several places under the bridgedeck heavy with moisture content. I walked away from that boat and the sellers wound up dropping the way down later on. The to fix it was costly, lengthy and time consuming- all contributing to a sizable additional cost event. The L46 prior to that had under all the floorboards. I’d love a nice for my final boat, but can only afford an older one bust I just won’t afford the cost or time to an older boat. Your buyer’s broker’s recommendation is based on the info above AND you’re a new cat owner taking a of newbies on a massive adventure. IF things don’t go well, a newer boat is easier to sell,, although a 40 would be fairly small unless its a 4 Lagoon 40/410 Just my $.02 worth

24-08-2022, 20:08
Boat: Volkscruiser	as the build quality is better in my opinion. Not just because of the bulkhead issues (only the third post and Lagoon bashing has started) but overall the Leopard is a better finished boat. Cheers

24-08-2022, 21:53
Boat: Cruising Catamaran	. Aim for a 2009 - 2010 model these were much better.

25-08-2022, 02:50

Boat: 2013 FP Lipari 41

25-08-2022, 06:23
Boat: PT-11

25-08-2022, 13:45

Boat: TRT 1200

25-08-2022, 14:08
Boat: PT-11	, but solid boats with good sailing qualities. (NB and the typo above should be VPLP) Older, well-built boats are likely to have been upgraded already. a 10 year old boat will put all the refitting on the new owner.

25-08-2022, 15:25

Boat: TRT 1200

, but solid boats with good sailing qualities. (NB and the typo above should be VPLP) Older, well-built boats are likely to have been upgraded already. a 10 year old boat will put all the refitting on the new owner.

25-08-2022, 17:59
Boat: Beneteau Oceanis 38.1	with 99 hours on it. I’ve been very disappointed with the laminate they use on the cabinets. I bought a plastic can of glue just so I can glue stuff back into place. The laminate is robust though. I think you can see where I’m going with it. I don’t regret at all getting something newer not by any stretch. I bought what I did for several reasons. I do see the pros and cons. I’m curious to see what boats like mine will look like in ten or fifteen years inside. It’s not going to look good unless someone redo’s the ikea look into what’s real or better. Good luck with your decision OP and thank you everyone for the responses! Sam

25-08-2022, 20:18
Boat: LAGOON 400	, lagoon 410 + couple other brand boats i was able to track, i would say newer is less spent over buy - 5 years use - sell cycle. In saying that, there is quite variation in build quality boat to boat of same manufacturer and year. Maybe different teams, some more experienced some less, some more motivated, etc. Also there is component that ages boat, sometimes very rapidly and other owner boat keeps qualities over years. Example nacelle issue - if addressed early, there was no damage, if not there was damage and considerable and potentially weakened structure. Get owner of the brand that do for you. Surveyors just cannot know the weak spots of particular boat nd follow generic schedule that will not give most times true picture.

02-09-2022, 23:19

Boat: 44 FP Cat & 45 Sea Ray motor yacht

aged 7, 9, and 11. Budget <450K USD.

I just reached out to a buyers' agent and he is trying to steer me far clear of "older" boats and suggesting something shorter and newer, such as a Lagoon 40/42 in the same budget.

Would be curious to hear anyone's thoughts... Whether it be cars, RVs, or houses, I have always been the type to buy older quality rather than newer for the same price, and so far that mentality has served me well. But maybe boats are different?

06-09-2022, 11:59
Boat: Jeanneau SO 49	from 20 years ago and they aren't perfect either. I was docked beside a Lagoon 450 on the weekend, and bulkhead problems or not, that was a pretty darn nice and large looking boat by "Pacific Northwest standards." At the end of the day each boat is unique and I probably really just need to get to the and step foot on some. But to answer my initial question, I am thinking to ignore that and definitely consider boats in the 2010 range vintage.

06-09-2022, 12:50
	in their model name lengths, that of course doesn't increase volume for you. Anyway, look up actual measurements on each boat, and yeah, get onto a couple (with your wife) before you get your heart set on one.

Thread Tools

Rate This Thread
:

Posting Rules
post new threads post replies post attachments edit your posts is are code is are are are

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
	Nimble1	Health, Safety & Related Gear	4	29-04-2016 15:30
General Info:	ArtM	Lagoon Catamarans	0	28-06-2012 14:27
	sausage	Liveaboard's Forum	15	25-02-2009 18:29
	swabbmob	Dollars & Cents	33	11-07-2008 03:31
	Cowboy Sailer	Monohull Sailboats	74	03-03-2008 08:54


No Threads to Display.

- - - - - - -

Privacy Guaranteed - your email is never shared with anyone, opt out any time.

IMAGES

Leopard vs Lagoon Catamaran
Leopard 40 VS Lagoon 380 catamaran charter
Lagoon vs Leopard: Which is a Better Catamaran?
Leopard 40 VS Lagoon 380 catamaran charter
Lagoon vs Leopard: Which is a Better Catamaran?
Leopard 40 Vs Lagoon 380 Para Catamaran En Ibiza

VIDEO

LEOPARD VS CROCODILE| THE WILD LIFE ANIMALS
Leopard 40 PC Test & Features Video 2023 by BoatTEST.com
Leopard 44 Catamaran For Sale: Part 1
Leopard 50
Sailing Bahamas, Eleuthera, Nassau, Leopard 50 Catamaran, 4/4
Leopard 50

COMMENTS

Lagoon vs Leopard: Which is a Better Catamaran?
Leopard 43 X Lagoon 42. The Leopard 43 is a popular cruising catamaran. The relaxed and well-considered style and shorthand ability to sail is a perfect blue-water cruising craft. Built with high construction standards, the use of catamarans is good value for money. The Lagoon 42 bears a strong resemblance to the Lagoon 52.
Leopard VS Lagoon
Eg Leopard 44 is 42'7"ft long the FP Saona 47 is 45.73ft whereas the Lagoon 450 is 45'10" long with a wider beam than both so is actually a bigger boat by quite a margin. It is also heavier according to manufacturer printed material which have fuzzy definitions.
Leopard vs Lagoon Catamaran
Leopard vs Lagoon Catamaran - What Are The Differences? When it comes to choosing a catamaran, the decision often comes down to selecting between two leading brands: Leopard and Lagoon catamarans. Both manufacturers have built a strong reputation in the sailing world, offering a range of models that promise comfort, reliability, and performance.
Lagoon vs Leopard Catamaran: Which Sailboat Is Right for You?
Introduction When it comes to cruising on the open waters, catamarans have gained immense popularity for their stability, space, and comfort. Two of the leading catamaran manufacturers, Lagoon and Leopard, offer exceptional vessels that cater to different preferences and sailing needs. In this article, we will compare Lagoon and Leopard catamarans to help you decide which one is the perfect ...
Comparing the Top 4 Production Catamarans
We compare four of the most popular production sailing catamarans; Lagoon 450, Fountaine Pajot Helia 44, Bali 4.5 or Leopard 44.
Leopard 46 Review: Better than a Lagoon?
The softer offshore performance, high quality materials, and navigation station comfort give the Leopard my edge. The Lagoon has better interior space, visibility, and airiness. Expect to pay around $600k versus $500k for a late model Leopard 46 compared to an equivalent Lagoon 440. Clients often debate about which of the production catamaran ...
New Leopard 40 vs Lagoon 42 for blue water
Re: New Leopard 40 vs Lagoon 42 for blue water. For the new Lagoon 42, a well-equipped (generator and AC, no watermaker) will be about 500K. Add a watermaker, teak floor and an extra electric winch (we ordered just 1) and move it up to around 535K. We have ordered a very well-equipped Lagoon 42.
Catamaran sailing comparison Lagoon catamarans or leopard ...
Catamaran sailing comparison Lagoon catamarans or leopard catamarans Chasing Latitudes 45K subscribers 636 38K views 2 years ago
149: COMPLETE Lagoon 42 Catamaran Tour&Comparison Analysis with Leopard
Though not making a debut at the Annapolis Boat Show, the Lagoon 42 is consistently popular and has returned to fame due to the comparison to the new 2021 Leopard 42.
Leopard 40 VS Lagoon 380 catamaran charter
Leopard 40 VS Lagoon 380 catamaran charter In this post, I would like to explain why I choose a Leopard 40 catamaran instead of a Lagoon 380, which actually, was my first choice for Charters Eleven's catamaran charter.
Lagoon 46 vs leopard 45
Re: Lagoon 46 vs leopard 45. The Lagoon 46 has a proper fly-bridge, I don't like sun lounges where boom can hit some dill that decides to stand up at the wrong moment. Other than that it comes to personal preferences about internal lay-out. Performance wise on paper the Lagoon has 2.5ft more waterline and about 100sqft more sail area and 2ft ...
The Cruising Catamaran Performance Debate
Cruising Catamarans Performance The dealer in the video our client mentioned to us specifically focused on the superior performance of the Fountaine Pajot compared to some of the competing brands in the cruising category like Leopard Catamarans, Nautitech Catamarans, Bali Catamarans, Lagoon Catamarans, and Catana Catamarans.
Compare The Most Popular 40ft Production Catamarans
The more popular sailing catamarans in the 40-ft range are Lagoon 400S2, Bali 4.0, Leopard 40, Nautitech Open 40, and Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40. We created a chart of each catamaran with a standard spec, ex-factory to compare the specifications and price of each boat. These catamarans compare very similarly on base price but there are a few ...
Who Makes The Best Power Catamaran?
If judged by number of units sold over the last 10 years, then Leopard is the best power catamaran builder in the industry. Looking at boats sold globally in the MLS over the last decade, Leopard Catamarans sold 40% more vessels than the second leading power cat builder, Fountain Pajot. Other notable power cat brands that led in overall sales ...
Multihulls: owners' experiences and reviews
We looked at Leopard, Fountaine-Pajot and Lagoon. When we boarded the Lagoon 42, a comfortable catamaran that could really take us places, we were sold.
380 S2 Lagoon 380 vs Leopard 38
Posts: 28. Lagoon 380 vs Leopard 38. Hi all, I'm currently in the market for a slightly larger cat having just sold a PDQ-36. I've narrowed the search down to either a Leopard 38 or a Lagoon 38. There are positives that I like about both of them namely, the deck clearance on the Lagoon and on the Leopard the cockpit layout.
Leopard 42 Catamaran Sailing Yacht Full Review
Above: 2021 Leopard 42 Catamaran Sailing Yacht. Photo by Leopard Catamarans. In creating the new 42, Leopard Catamarans stuck with their successful formula which includes the combination of designers, Simonis and Voogd, and builder, Robertson and Caine.
Leopard 42 Boat Review
The new Leopard 42, is a versatile, family-cruising catamaran. Leopard 42 Courtesy Leopard Catamarans. Mick Jagger was not singing about boat tests and wind speeds when he belted out the title lyrics to the classic Rolling Stones tune "You Can't Always Get What You Want.". Far too often during many years of conducting sea trials on new ...
Lagoon Catamaran Review: Are Lagoon Catamarans Good?
Lagoon Catamarans, renowned in the sailing world, belongs to the prestigious Beneteau Group. But the question often arises, especially among prospective boat buyers: Are Lagoon Catamarans genuinely worth the investment? This article dives deep into the pros and cons, shedding light on whether these boats live up to their reputation. Introduction to Lagoon Catamarans The popularity of ...
42ft Catamaran Models Comparisons
42ft Catamaran Models Comparisons We compare the specifications, dimensions, sail area, and pricing on the most popular 42ft catamarans in 2020. The Lagoon 42, Bali 4.2, FP Astrea 42, and Leopard 42 are within a similar price range and dimensions, but there are major differences. Let's compare apples to apples to see how the match up.
Leopard or Lagoon
In strong winds the lagoon will move very well and be more stable unless you reef the leopard a lot. The sail area on a leopard is larger than the Lagoon S2 so it makes sense. The Leopard runs 2 x yanmar 30 Hp engines. The Lagoon S2 runs yanmar 40 Hp engines so more fuel burn.
Lagoon 42
ST's Lagoon 42 verdict: Cruising catamarans are not to everyone's taste, but the pros and cons versus monohulls are well known. The Lagoon, however, enjoys more sympathetic styling than some of her contemporaries. Beneteau clearly has the financial muscle to indulge in some serious R&D before commissioning a new boat and it shines through ...
2018 Lagoon 450 F Catamaran for sale
Replacing a catamaran that has come to be seen as a benchmark is no easy task. But the VPLP architects, in partnership with Lagoon and the celebrated Nauta Design studio, have been brilliantly successful in creating the 450. The 450 is now available in 2 versions: FlyBridge or SporTop. - in terms of accommodation - deck areas - facilities ...
Older Leopard vs newer Lagoon
Looking to get our first cat sometime between now and next summer. Watched lots of videos and read lots of articles and we are pretty certain we want a Leopard 46 from around 2008-2011 range. Family

Lagoon vs Leopard Catamaran: Which Sailboat Is Right for You?

Introduction

1. The Legacy of Lagoon and Leopard Catamarans

1.2 Leopard Catamarans

2. Design and Space

2.2 Leopard Catamarans

3. Performance and Sailing Experience

3.2 Leopard Catamarans

4. Price Range and Affordability

4.2 Leopard Catamarans

5. Customization Options

5.2 Leopard Catamarans

6. Resale Value and Depreciation

6.2 Leopard Catamarans

7. Maintenance and Service

7.2 Leopard Catamarans

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Recent Posts

Leopard 46 Review: Better than a Lagoon?

First Impressions

Construction and What To Look For

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Leopard 40 VS Lagoon 380 catamaran charter

Quality and design of C11’s catamaran charter

The trampoline

Fridge – freezer

You may also like

Marriage Proposal in Ibiza aboard a Catamaran

Catamaran Charter Ibiza Formentera

Catamaran Hire Ibiza Formentera

Who Makes The Best Power Catamaran?

Interesting Boating Links

Luxury Boats & Yachts

Popular Builders & Models

Trending Brands & Types

SEND UYS A MESSAGE

Yachting World

Multihulls: owners’ experiences and reviews

Hal Haltom – Outremer 51

Fit for bluewater

David Weible and Kellie Peterson – Lagoon 42

The delights

Multihulls: new yacht reviews

Review: Silent 55, the extraordinary solar powered yacht

Leopard 42 Boat Review

Specifications Leopard 42

Pre-Owned: 1988 Hylas 47

Catalina Introduces the 6 Series

Sailboat Preview: Elan GT6 Explorer

For Sale: 1984 Camper & Nicholsons 58

Galápagos: A Paradise Worth the Paperwork

Around Alone

Grease the Wheels of Your Boat: A Guide to Proper Lubrication

A Bowsprit Reborn: A DIY Renovation Story

Better Sailing

Lagoon Catamaran Review: Are Lagoon Catamarans Good?

Introduction to Lagoon Catamarans

Pros of Lagoon Catamarans:

Cons of Lagoon Catamarans:

Getting a Feel for Lagoon Catamarans:

The Future of Lagoon:

Navigating Your Choice:

Lagoon Cats Review: Are Lagoon Catamarans Good? – Conclusion:

Related Posts

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Fishing Line for Trolling

Best Inboard Boat Engine Brands

Are O’Day Sailboats Good? A Closer Look at a Classic Brand

Maximizing Comfort on Your Boat: Essential Supplies and Amenities

Subscribe to Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting today!

Subscribe to Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting!

Lagoon 42 – tested and reviewed

ST’s Lagoon 42 verdict:

Master cabin

Master heads

Spacious saloon

Bulkhead helming

info heading

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Boat Test: New Luxurious Multihull Lagoon 60

Boat Test: Jeanneau Sun Fast 30