best catamaran under 50 feet

13 Best Catamarans for Cruising (Buyer’s Guide With Prices)

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If you’ve spent many a pleasant weekend chartering or helming a cruising catamaran on the open sea, perhaps, just like me, you’ve started thinking about buying your own cruising catamaran . However, purchasing a cruising catamaran is no small decision; it’s essential to research the range of models to decide which will be best for you. 

Some of the best catamarans for cruising are the Sunreef 60, the Leopard 45, the Saona 46, the Manta 42, and the Antares 44i. A good cruising catamaran offers plenty of space, extended range and is optimized for comfort and safety. A cruiser is slower and less exciting to sail than a performance cat.

If you would like to own a catamaran, but your budget doesn’t stretch to purchasing a new one, look for a used, older model. You should also think about whether you’d prefer a power or sailing catamaran. This article explores the best cruising catamarans on the market and gives you an insight into what model will work best for your circumstances.

Are you looking for a specific price range or size? Check out my other articles, such as Best catamarans under 200k or 20 top performance catamarans!

Sunreef 60 (Power/Sail)

The Sunreef 60 is the epitome of luxury. It offers both powerful sailing performance and, with 60 feet (18.3 meters) in length, has an abundance of amenities for passengers. 

The Sunreef 60 has been commended by several industry experts, including SailWorld and YachtingWorld . Some of the best features of the Sunreef 60 include : 

  • A large semi-open saloon that leads into the aft cockpit, the main deck, and the dining space 
  • An aft hydraulic platform that can be used for water sports and sunbathing 
  • A large flybridge that can house a pool, bar, and dining area 
  • An aft garage that can be used as extra storage space 
  • The ability to host up to 12 guests, with the owner’s cabin offering a spectacular front view 

The Sunreef 60’s sailing specifications are equally impressive. Some of the catamaran’s specs include: 

Power version:

  • An advanced navigation system that allows the Sunreef 60 to operate both with and without a crew 
  • A fuel capacity of 1585.03 gallons (6000 liters) 
  • A water capacity of 211.34 gallons (800 liters) 
  • A draft of 5.90 feet (1.80 meters)

Sail version:

  • A fuel capacity of 463 gallons (1750 liters) 
  • 2*110HP Engines

In 2020, Sunreef launched a variation of the Sunreef 60 – the 60 Sunreef Power Eco . This catamaran is equipped with a state-of-the-art solar power system and wind generators. Eco-responsible finishing materials have been used to construct several parts of the catamaran.  

Both the Sunreef 60 and the eco version are excellent sailing crafts built for luxurious, long-distance cruises. They are still in production, so you can order a new vessel from Sunreef 60 . Used Sunreef 60s can be found on TheYachtMarket.com . 

As the Sunreef 60 is such a high-end vessel, be prepared to pay a premium price for one – new or used. 

Sunreef 60 are priced between $1 488 000 and $2 914 000

Nautitech 47 Power or Nautitech 46 Sail

The Nautitech 47 Power is a sleek power catamaran, designed by Nautitech Catamarans and architected by Marc Lombard.

Catamaran enthusiasts applaud the Nautitech 47 for its short extended hardtop, modern navigation station, and excellent bridge deck clearance . This Nautitech 47 Power has similar attractive features, including: 

  • A large saloon with a 360-degree panorama 
  • Optimized hulls and an optimized hardtop 
  • A comfortable navigation station area that can seat two 
  • A spacious gallery with large benches for working on 
  • A generous flybridge and cockpit that provides plenty of room for lounging 
  • The flybridge can also be enclosed, protecting it from bad weather
  • A lifting platform that can be lowered into the water to create a ‘beach’ in the middle of the sea
  • Three cabins which can be converted into four depending on how many guests you are entertaining 

The Nautitech 47 Power was launched in 2018 and is based on the Nautitech 46 Sail. It employs modern cruising and technical features, including:

  • A draft of 3 feet 11 inches (1.20 meters) 
  • A fuel capacity of 2 x 170 gallons (2 x 645 liters) 
  • A water tank capacity of 2 x 79 gallons (2 x 300 liters) 
  • Two Volva Penta engines with a power of 225 HP

Nautitech 46 Sail offers :

  • Two Volva Penta engines with a power of 40 HP
  • A fuel capacity of 2 x 79 gallons (2 x 300 liters) 

The only potential drawback of the Nautitech 47 Power is that it has exposed helms. However, you can fix this with a bimini, which will incur an additional cost. 

If you’re interested in buying a Nautitech 47/46, visit NautitechCatamarans.com to find your nearest dealer. The dealer may offer you a sea trial where you can take the catamaran out to sea and judge its performance for yourself. You can also buy a Nautitech second-hand; browse YatchWorld.com to see some options. 

Leopard 45 (Sail)

The Leopard 45 is a luxury catamaran that is popular with both charter companies and private owners. Simonis-Voogd designed the external shell while Robertson and Caine did the internal interiors. As its name suggests, the Leopard 45 is 45 feet (13.72 meters) long. It has been recommended by Gregor Tarjan, author of ‘ The Complete Guide for Cruising Sailors ’ and the president of Aeroyacht Ltd. 

The Leopard 45 was launched in 2017 and carried forward some of the most popular features and design aspects of earlier Leopard models. For instance, the Leopard 45 has a flybridge lounge which includes space for a seating area, a sunbed, and a table. This feature won an award when it was included in the Leopard 50. Other positive attributes of the Leopard 45 include: 

  • An increased aft area with floating stairs lead up to the cockpit
  • The option to have three or four cabins depending on the number of guests you have 
  • An open plan saloon and galley, adding to the catamaran’s overall spaciousness 
  • A protected helm station 
  • Hardtop lounge in the most recent models 

Some of the technical specifications of the Leopard 45 include: 

  • A minimum draft of 4 feet 11 inches (1.5 meters) 
  • A bridge deck clearance of 2 feet 9 inches (0.83 meters) 
  • A freshwater capacity of 206 gallons (780 liters)
  • A fuel capacity of 185 gallons (780 liters) 
  • Two engines with 45 HP each 

A new Leopard 45 will be available for purchase directly from Leopard Catamarans in 2022. However, if you can’t wait or want one at a lower price point, consider buying a used one. A range of used Leopard 45s is available on YachtWorld.com . 

A Leopard 45 costs between $957 000 – $234 000

Lagoon 440 (Sail)

The Lagoon 440 is a catamaran recognized for its large interior volume, making it a popular catamaran for charter companies. However, the volume also makes it an excellent catamaran for families or owners looking to host large parties. Lagoon also made a power-cat version called the Lagoon 44.

At 44 feet (13.7 meters) long, the Lagoon 440 is relatively heavy. However, it has several functional advantages, including: 

  • Four cabins with four en-suite heads 
  • A bimini top 
  • A cockpit with speakers and a shower that is easily accessible by guests 
  • A large galley with potential for island top benches 
  • Lazy jacks and a canvas catchment system that allows for easier sail handling 
  • Additional storage space in the aft and cockpits 

Meanwhile, some of the technical specifications of the Lagoon 440 include: 

  • A maximum draft of 4.3 feet (1.30 meters) 
  • One engine capacity with a total power of 54 HP 
  • Freshwater tanks with a capacity of 237 gallons (897 liters) 
  • A fuel tank capacity of 172 gallons (651 liters)

While the Lagoon 440 has an excellent collection of features, it does have some drawbacks that users have noted. Some flybridge models of the Lagoon 440 have a high boom position that may make it difficult to access the sail bag. The saloon’s leading edge has a slight squaring, which may be challenging to get aesthetically used to. 

Despite these drawbacks, the Lagoon 440 is still a great option if you are on a strict budget. The Lagoon 440 had a six-year production run, where over 400 of the models were produced. As a result, several Lagoon 440s are always available in the second-hand market. Visit YatchtWorld.com to explore catamarans of this model that are currently for sale. 

A Lagoon 440 can be purchased at $290 000 – $525 000

Saona 47 (Sail)

Made by Fountaine Pajot, the Saona 47 is a luxury catamaran that is 45.7 feet (13.94 meters) long. Designed by Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design, it has received several industry and maritime awards, including SAIL magazine’s award for the best multihull cruising boat (40-50 feet). 

Launched in April 2017, the Saona 47 is relatively new on the market. As a result, it features a modern design and modern amenities. Some of the most enticing features of the Saona 47 include: 

  • Several spaces for passengers to lounge and relax, including a large sunbathing area, a lounge deck, and an open plan cockpit
  • A lift that can also be converted into a swimming platform
  • A large galley with an island bench 
  • Three cabins, with the master cabin having an en-suite bathroom. If you’re looking to charter it, there is a four-cabin version with space for a crew.
  • Good visibility from the helm and the opportunity to engage with other passengers 

The Saona 47 also offers an excellent sailing performance. It has a carefully planned weight-to-value ratio, which allows for both speed and stability. Some of the technical features of the Saona 47 are: 

  • A draft of 4.3 feet (1.3 meters) 
  • A sail area of 828.8 feet (77 meters)
  • A fuel capacity of 2 x 124 gallons (2 x 470 litres) 

To buy the Saona 47 new, you can lodge an inquiry on FountainePajot.com . However, you can also visit YachtWorld.com to see if you can find a used Saona 47.

A used Saona 47 may cost between $600,000 – $999,000.

Excess 12 (Sail)

The Excess 12 was launched in 2019 by Groupe Beneteau, the same group which designs Lagoon catamarans. The Excess range has been created for performance-oriented sailing vessels. The catamarans in the range have been applauded for their sailing prowess and their space. The Excess 12 was the first of the range and has been named the best cruising multihull under 40 feet by Sail Magazine. 

Designed by VPLP Design, the Excess 12 is considered a ‘sporty’ catamaran. It is 38 feet and 6 inches (11.74 meters). It has an open bimini and a light helm that gives it a feel similar to a monohull. Other attractive features of the Excess 12 include: 

  • A cockpit with a retractable roof that allows for direct access to sunlight 
  • The cockpit also has dining space for up to 8 people 
  • Room for two to three people in the helm
  • The option between three or four cabins 
  • A high aspect rig ratio 
  • An aft double steering station 
  • Most areas of the Excess 12 are constructed with cedar and white blend woodwork and united windows, making for a beautiful, natural aesthetic

Reviewers of the Excess 12 note a minor drawback of the twin aft helm. Its location in the corner of the cabin can create a blind spot. Other than this, many of the sailing features of the Excess 12 are positively received. These include: 

  • A draft of 4 feet and 5 inches (1.35 meters) 
  • An upwind sail area of 82 meters (269 feet)
  • A fuel capacity of 2 x 53 gallons (2 x 200 liters) 
  • The freshwater capacity of 79 gallons (300 liters) 

If you’re interested in buying the Excess 12 new, visit the dealer’s page on ExcessCatamrans.com, or visit YatchtWorld.com to look for a secondhand model.

Manta 42 (Sail)

The Manta 42 is one of the most popular models from Manta, an older brand known for its high-quality catamarans. 

The Manta 42 was launched in the late 1990s and was in production until the late 2000s. It received the ‘Best Value Overall’ prize in CW’s 2001 Boat of the Year. Even though it is an older model, it remains a beloved model today and is an excellent option if you are on a tighter budget. 

Designed by Eric Lerouge, a French naval architect, the Manta 42 has a variety of attractive features: 

  • Great sail to area displacement ratio, which makes for smoother sailing
  • A spacious aft cockpit area that can be upgraded and customized to suit your own particular design needs 
  • High bows and curved forward crossbeam make for a streamlined appearance
  • Room for three cabins and two heads. The owner’s cabin has its own en-suite bathroom with a large shower. 
  • Glass-enclosed cockpit
  • The interior finish is made with maple and teak wood 

Meanwhile, some of the technical and sailing features of the Manta 42 are as follows: 

  • A draft of 3.8 feet (1.2 meters) 
  • One engine with a total power of 60 HP 
  • Two holding tanks with a fuel capacity of 120 gallons (454 liters)
  • The freshwater capacity of 100 gallons (379 liters)

If you decide to take the plunge and buy a Manta 42, you will become a member of the Manta Owners Association . This association connects you to other manta owners who offer advice and conversations about Manta maintenance and sailing. 

You cannot buy the Manta 42 new. However, there are plenty of used Manta 42 models available on YachtWorld.com . 

A used Manta 42 will cost you somewhere between $239 000 – $325 000

Antares 44i (Sail)

The Antares 44i is another older model that offers excellent value for money if you’re working with a lower budget. Its production began in Argentina in the late 2000s. This yacht was built with round-the-world sailing in mind, and it has excellent amenities from both a technical and passenger perspective. 

Some of the best passenger facilities the Antares 44i offers are: 

  • An extended galley with plenty of storage space 
  • Three cabins, with two at the hulls and one forward cabin on the port side 
  • Stainless steel arch aft with plenty of space for dinghies 
  • A cockpit with room for a BBQ and room for lounging 

While it is an older model, the Antares 44i still has plenty of modern sailing features and storage room, making it a great long-distance cruiser. Here are some of the attractive technical features: 

  • A maximum draft of 4 feet (1.2 meters) 
  • A bridge clearance of 62 feet (18.9 meters) 
  • Two engines with a total power of 80 HP 
  • Fuel tanks with a capacity of 120 gallons (454 liters) 
  • Freshwater tanks with a capacity of 150 gallons (568 liters)

Today, the Antares Catamarans company has built a newer version of the Antares 44i – the Antares 44 , which you can consider if you want to buy a new catamaran. However, the Antares 44i continues to be a great option. You can buy a used Antares 44i on YatchtWorld.com . 

Price: $495 000 – $860 000

Catana 50 (Sail)

The Catana 50 is another older model that can hold its own against many more modern cruising catamarans. Like the Antares 44i, it is a more pocket-friendly option that doesn’t compromise sailing quality and passenger amenities. 

Catana is one of the world’s best catamaran producers, known for creating stable yet fast boats and for their quality finishes. Besides being produced by Catana, the Catana 50 has been architected by Christophe Barreau, a world class naval architect. Some of the best features that the Catana 50 boasts are: 

  • A length of 50 feet (15 meters)
  • Deep daggerboards allow for excellent windward performance
  • Made with carbon fiber which allows for stability and speed 
  • Hardtop over cockpit 
  • Twin aft helm stations 
  • Three cabins which can sleep 6 
  • Satin oak interior finishes 

Meanwhile, the technical specifications of the Catana 50 include: 

  • A draft of 4 feet (1.2 meters) 
  • A bridge clearance of 23.7 feet (7 meters) 
  • Two engines with a total power of 150 HP 
  • Fuel tanks with a capacity of 227 gallons (860 liters) 
  • Freshwater tanks with a capacity of 211 gallons (800 liters)

Catana does not produce the Catana 50 anymore. However, you can look for a pre-owned Catana 50 on the CatanaServices website or YatchtWorld.com . There are models of the Catana 50 available for secondhand sale across the world.

A Catana 50 will set you back somewhere between $644 000 – $692 000

Atlantic 42 (Sail)

Like the Manta 42, the Atlantic 42 is a smaller-sized catamaran. It is 42 feet (12.8 meters) long but is spacious and fuel-efficient. It was designed by Chris White , who specializes in designing high-performance catamarans.

The Atlantic 42 was in production in 1999 but boasts many classic features found in modern-day catamarans. The Atlantic 42 has been the recipient of Cruising World magazine’s Boat of the Year award. Noteworthy features in the Atlantic 42 include: 

  • A high waist and forward cockpit 
  • Custom aft deck allowing for easy access to the dinghy storage
  • Interior design constructed with teak and holly wood
  • Navigation station with space for two seats
  • A secure, raised pilothouse that allows for excellent visibility in stormy weather 
  • A galley with enough space for long-distance cruises 
  • Two double cabins and two single cabins 

In addition to good passenger amenities, the Atlantic 42 has some excellent sailing specifications, including: 

  • Water capacity of 80 gallons (302.8 liters) 
  • Fuel capacity of 80 gallons (302.8 liters) 
  • A bridge deck clearance of 62 feet (18.9 meters) 
  • Engines with a total power of 58 HO 

The Atlantic 42 is no longer in production but can be custom ordered from Chris White designs . However, they can also be found on resale platforms such as YacthtWorld.com .

Price: $325 000 – $450 000

Seawind 1160 (Sail)

The Seawind 1160 is a long-distance cruiser produced by Seawind Catamarans , a leading catamaran manufacturer designing and building catamarans for over 35 years. 

This catamaran is available in two styles : the lite Seawind 1160 and the deluxe Seawind 1160. The deluxe catamaran operates with diesel sail drives that allow for excellent torque and fuel capacity. Meanwhile, the lite version works with outboard motors that reduce the catamaran’s overall weight. It also has more storage internally on the boat, and lower maintenance and replacement costs.

The Seawind 1160 has won Cruising World’s ‘Most Innovative Boat’ award in 2007. It won this award thanks to its tri-folding door, which opens the saloon and the cockpit to form a living or lounging area. Other significant design aspects and passenger amenities include: 

  • Twin helm stations 
  • 360-degree visibility from the cockpit 
  • Grey wash and timber interior to make for a highly modern interior 
  • Three cabins in the owner’s version of the catamaran with a queen-sized bed in the master cabin
  • Hulls made of fiberglass 

Meanwhile, the sailing and design specifications of the Seawind 1160 are as follows: 

  • A diesel fuel capacity of 95 US gallons (360 liters) 
  • A freshwater capacity of 185 US gallons (700 liters) 
  • A draft of 3 feet and six inches (1.1 meters) 

To buy a Seawind 1160 new, you can lodge an inquiry with SeaWindCats.com . However, you can also look for secondhand Seawind 1160s on websites like MultihullCentral.com .  

Price: $230 000 – $460 000

Bahia 46 (Sail)

Produced by Fountaine Pajot, the Bahia 46 has a sophisticated design that makes it an excellent choice. The Bahia 46 was also designed in conjunction with Joubert-Nivelt and Oliver Flahault.

Some of the stand out features of the Bahia 46 include: 

  • Larger than usual hulls
  • Daggerboards are strategically placed to minimize draft 
  • A six post-bimini that can hold dinghies 
  • Isolated engines that prevent passengers from being disturbed by the house and smell of the engines 
  • Generous cabin area with an enclosed space that provides protection from severe weather
  • A large cockpit with a dining space that can seat 10 

As well as offering excellent passenger and design amenities, the Bahia 46 has some attractive sailing features and specifications. These include: 

  • A draft of 4 feet 3 inches (1.30 meters) 
  • A fuel capacity of 100 gallons (378 liters) 
  • A freshwater capacity of 220 gallons (833 liters) 
  • Two engines with a total power of 80 HP

The Bahia 46 is no longer being produced. However, you can look to buy it secondhand on portals like YatchtWorld.com or SailTahiti.com . 

Price: $170 000 – $328 000

Aquila 48 (Power)

The Aquila 48 is a state-of-the-art power catamaran. While production of the Aquila 48 was discontinued in 2020, it is still an incredibly popular catamaran in the resale market.

The ambient and design features of the Aquila 48 include: 

  • A hardtop flybridge made with stainless steel and with air conditioning 
  • A forward cockpit with a removable table 
  • The choice between a four or three-cabin version 
  • A helm station with a canvas cover that offers weather protection 
  • An expansive galley with room for a range of facilities, including a microwave, a fridge, and a double sink 
  • Interiors finished with olive wood

The Aquila 48 is a power catamaran that allows for easy, stable, and fast cruising. Other specifications include:

  • A maximum draft of 3 feet (0.91 meters) 
  • Two engines with a maximum of 330 HP 
  • A freshwater capacity of 103 gallons (389.9 liters) 
  • Fuel tank capacity of 178 gallons (673.8 liters) 

You can buy the Aquila 48 second hand on websites like SiYachts.com or YatchtWorld.com .

Price: $550 000 – $699 000

Conclusion 

Depending on your budget and sailing style, there is a range of cruising catamarans you can choose from. Some of the best power catamarans include the Aquila 48, Sunreef Power, and Nautitech 47 Power. Meanwhile, some of the best luxury catamarans are the Saona 47 and Leopard 45. If you’re after an older catamaran that you can buy secondhand, the Manta 42, Antares 44i, and Lagoon 440 are excellent options . 

The next step in your catamaran journey is to see some of the models in their real-life glory. Contact some of the owners or dealers of these catamarans to see the catamarans up close and take them out for a trial! 

  • AntaresCatamarans: Antares Brand 
  • Catana Services: Pre Owned Boats 
  • CruisersForum: Nautitech 47 
  • Chris White: Atlantic 42 Catamaran 
  • CrusingWorld: 40 Best Cruising Catamarans 
  • Excess Catamarans: Excess 12
  • FlagstaffMarine: International Awards and Nominations for 2020 
  • Flagstaff Marine: Excess 12 
  • Fountaine Pajot: Saona 47
  • Leopard Catamarans: Model Availability
  • MantaOwners: Manta Owners Association 
  • Multihull Solutions: Award Winning Catamarans 
  • Multihull Central: Seawind 1160
  • Nautitech Catamarans: Nautitech 47 
  • Robertson and Caine: Leopard 45
  • SailTahiti: Catana 50 
  • Sail Magazine: 10 Great Cruising Cat
  • Sail Magazine: Boat Review – Fountaine Pajot Saona 47 
  • SailWorld: 60 Sunreef Power
  • Seawind Catamarans: History
  • Staten Island Yacht Sales: Aquila 48 
  • Sunreef Yachts: Eco Sunreef 60 Power
  • Sunreef Yachts: Sunreef 60 
  • YachtingWorld: The Sunreef 60 
  • YachtWorld: Antares Boats for Sale 
  • YachtWorld: Atlantic 42
  • YachtWorld: Catana 50 for Sale 
  • YachtWorld: Nautitech 47 Boats for Sale 
  • YachtWorld: Leopard 45 for Sale 
  • YachtWorld: Lagoon 440 for Sale 
  • YachtWorld: Saona 47 for Sale 
  • YachtWorld: Excess 12
  • YachtWorld: Fountaine Pajot for Sale 
  • YachtWorld: Aquila 48
  • YachtWorld: Manta 42 Boats for Sale 

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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The best catamarans under 40/50 Feet

Sep 29, 2020

less than a min

The best catamarans under 40/50 Feet

Catamarans are comfortable multihulls used to sail around the ocean, whether close to coastlines or even further offshore. These vessels vary from luxurious boats to smaller and more affordable vessels. They can be chartered to roam the Mediterranean , the Atlantic or the Caribbean . Alternatively, they can also be owned and used frequently on various holidays for those lucky ones that manage to take enough time off work to sail.

The 40 or 50 feet catamarans are some of the most comfortable yachts to travel in. This is why they have piqued our curiosity and pushed us to do a “top-three” list of the best catamarans under 50 feet .

Here is what we came up with and their exquisite features.

Top 3 best catamarans under 50 feet

TheBoatDB provides a platform to compare boats and catamarans . Therefore, it becomes inevitable for us not to rate and grade these utterly attractive yachts. As a result, here is our list of the best catamarans under 50 feet and their respective features.

  • The number one spot goes to Lagoon 46 . The Lagoon 46 is a famous catamaran from Lagoon manufacturers. It reaches 46 feet in length (or 14 meters) from which it also takes its name. It has a beam of 7.96 meters and weighs 16.6 tonnes. The mainsail area is 87 m² and has a draft of 1.30 meters. The Lagoon 46 has 4 double cabins and costs about 433.000 euros before tax. What makes it one of the best catamarans under 50 feet is its advantage and potential due to its aft-positioned rig. This boat shows great performance under sail and versatility. It is appropriate for families as well as ocean cruising. Its exterior is very attractive as well.
  • Next, we have grown quite fond of the Ita 14.99 , designed and built by Ita Catamarans Srl. This is a small catamaran intended to be used by a shorthanded crew. It includes a wide sail area, deep daggerboards, high-end carbon-epoxy construction, interesting and elegant interiors, good speed, and a powerful engine. The cost of the Ita 14.99 is about 890.000 euros before tax. The boat is 49 feet long or 14.99 in meters from which the name comes from. In addition, the Ita 14.99 has a 7.80-meter beam, 10.5 tonnes of weight, 91 m² mainsail area, 49 m² self-tacking jib area, and 140 m² gennaker area. The Ita 14.99 was firstly introduced at the Cannes Yachting Festival and has since been a sight for sore eyes. Last but not least, it offers a hybrid-electric propulsion as well.
  • Our third choice as one of the best catamarans under 50 feet is the Elba 45 Fountaine Pajot , also known as simply Elba 45. It is 13.45 meters long with a beam of 7.55 meters. In addition, its unladen weight is 13.6 t, its draft is 1.20 meters, a mainsail area of 74 m², a genoa area of 45 m², and costs about 419,000 euros before tax. The interior of the Elba 45 is quite impressive. It has 4 double cabins and a very pleasant communal space full of light. The steering position is close to the Lounge deck. One of the most liked features of this boat is the hydraulic rear platform that serves as a beach deck.

Explore TheBoatDB to compare these three high-end catamarans to other choices and create your own “top-three” list of the best catamarans under 50 feet .

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SEAWIND 1260

Continuing the line of legendary 12-metre seawind catamarans, this boat is the perfect balance of cruising practicality and powerful sailing performance., best catamaran under 50 feet, 2019 cruising world boat of the year.

The 41ft Seawind 1260 catamaran is a product of the best ideas, engineering and craftsmanship accumulated by the Seawind Catamarans team of expert boat builders and designers. With over 30 years’ experience in building high quality offshore cruising catamarans, the 1260 combines the best of the company’s expertise and experiences into one of the world’s most practical and capable 40’ blue water cruising catamaran sailboats.

A COMFORTABLE INDOOR/ OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE

Open lifestyle with the best natural ventilation.

The innovative tri-fold door system converts the boat from having the security of a centre bulkhead separating the outdoor cockpit and internal saloon, into a large alfresco dining and living space as the door folds away and stow up into the ceiling of the cockpit roof.

OPTIMUM BALANCE

The ultimate mid-sized ocean cruiser.

The Seawind 1260 continues a long and successful series of 12-metre Seawind Catamarans which now carry legendary status among cruisers.  In many cases, this size offers the optimum balance between cruising robustness, and manageability for a couple.  The sustained success of this series is built on key features which are part of our DNA.

BEST CRUISING CATAMARAN UNDER 50 FEET

ALL controls are at your fingertips and use Seawind Catamarans' refined short handed sailing optimization system to provide ultimate control from the helm, avoiding the need to go forward for virtually any task!

With over 30 years’ experience in building high quality offshore cruising catamarans, the 1260 combines the best of the company’s expertise and experiences into one of the world’s most practical and capable 40’ blue water cruising catamarans.

Twin helm positions are a must have for any true sailor, the Seawind 1260 offer the perfect balance between excellent 360 degree visibility and total protection from the weather in any conditions, whilst always offering the skipper full control and comfortable navigation around the cockpit.

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SPECIFICATIONS

Overall length, 41' / 12.45 m, 22'3" / 6.8 m, 3' 8" / 1.16 m, displacement, 18,077 lbs / 8,200 kg, diesel saildrives, 2 x 29 hp yanmar, 126 us gal / 480 litres, fresh water, 185 us gal / 700 litres, 1,014 sq ft / 94.2 sq m, screecher (optional), 296 sq ft / 27.5 sq m, spinnaker (optional), 1,238 sq ft / 115 sq m, let's go sailing, 41-footer to cruise the world.

After the Annapolis Boat Show, Nick and Terysa from Sailing Ruby Rose went for the test sail of the Seawind 1260. Let's look at how the Seawind 1260 performs and why it is sailors' best choice!

RECOMMENDED OPTIONS

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BATTERY LITHIUM UPGRADE (720AH)

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Change from the traditional AGM battery system to a high capacity Lithium system from Mastervolt. This option not only upgrades the batteries but also modifies the entire charging system ensuring a total compatible system including upgraded mastervolt alternators and regulators, additional AGM start battery and DC/DC charging unit.

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B&G FORWARD SCAN OPTION

Explore poorly-chartered or unfamiliar waters confidently, avoid upcoming dangers or obstructions and set custom shallow depth alarms with B&G’s forward-looking sensor. With an effective range eight times the actual depth, ForwardScan® helps you avoid groundings or damage to keels and rudders while pinpointing the ideal spot for anchoring.

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DUAL TELEFLEX ENGINE CONTROLS - MECHANICAL

This option gives the skipper the ability to control the engines from both helms delivering the optimum in boat handelling capability and maneuvering.

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ANCHOR BRIDLE

One of the few shortcommings of a catamaran is its’ tendancy not to stay head to wind on anchor. As wind blows across the bows the boat will tend to twist from side to side around the anchor chain. This effect is combatted by the use of an anchor bridle.

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MARINE VINYL COCKPIT FLOORING

This foam backed waterproof marine flooring by Infinity Luxury Woven Vinyl will help keep your cockpit clean and tidy, It reduces pressure on your heels when barefoot onboard and looks super classy!

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C-ZONE DIGITAL SWITCHING (DC)

The sleek CZone® touch screen digital switching system provides a lightweight sophisticated switching system enabelling control and monetoring of your vessel through the navigation tables touch screen display or through WiFi connection the system can also be controlled at the helm mounted chart plotter or wirelessly via tablet or smartphone.

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SOLAR PANEL UPGRADE FROM 2X 125W TO 2X 210W RIGID AND 2X 320W FLUSH PANELS

In this configuration we installed 2x 320w flush panels on the hardtop and 2x 210w framed panels off the back of the targa arch giving a total of 1060W. The flush mount panels can contour to the shape of the roof and can therefore cover more surface area, their weakness however is reduced efficiency (our tests showed a 10% reduction compared to the framed panels of equivalent wattage).

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PROPELLER 3 BLADE GORI FOLDING UPGRADE

A great upgrade for Yanmar inboard diesel engines the 3 blade Gori folding propeller’s “overdrive” function adds a new dimension to sailing under power. The helmsman can choose the propeller pitch and profile in the water while sailing forward, by regulating the yacht’s shift and throttle control.

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UPGRADE TO 12" ZEUS3 CHARTPLOTTER

The Zeus³-12 is a complete chartplotter navigation system for blue water cruisers and regatta racers. This high-performance multi-function display features a 12″ diagonal widescreen display, incorporating SolarMAX™ HD technology for brilliant daytime visibility and ultra-wide viewing angles.

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B&G AUTOPILOT REMOTE

Stay in control, wherever you are on board. Incorporating long-range Bluetooth technology for up to 30 metres range in a compact and lightweight package, the WR10 wireless remote works with Simrad autopilot systems to enable precise heading adjustments and autopilot control.

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SATELITE PHONE/DATA WIFI ROUTER IRIDIUM GO

The IRIDIUM GO! is a satellite wifi router/phone. Once installed in the boat the boat will have a wifi hotspot the same as any office/home and all devices (phones, computers, chartplotters, c-zone etc) can then easily be connected to the internet. The unit is made by Iridium and the service provider is a company called PredictWind, which also supply the Iridium GO! kit with all parts needed including a pre-activated SIM card.

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13 Best Liveaboard Catamarans (For All Budgets)

If you want to enjoy long-term living on the water, a liveaboard catamaran can provide the perfect combination of comfort and adventure. However, buying and owning a catamaran can cost you a fortune. If you're not sure which one suits your budget, here are 13 of the best liveaboard catamarans on the market today, covering a range of budgets and lifestyles.

The 13 best liveaboard catamarans for different budgets are:

Nautitech 46 Open

Lagoon 450f, nautitech 46 fly.

If you're on a tight budget but still want to enjoy the liveaboard lifestyle, the Leopard 40, Lucia 40, and Lagoon 400 are some of your best options. If you have a slightly higher budget to live up to your dream life aboard, let's see which of these catamarans will suit your needs best.

  • Low-budget liveaboard catamarans cost anywhere from $350,000 to $450,000, while high-budget options range from $1,000,000 to $2,000,000.
  • The living space of the best liveaboard catamarans ranges from 77 sqm to 215 sqm, with the higher-budget options generally offering more space.
  • Most catamaran models come equipped with one galley and multiple heads, with the number of heads ranging from 2 to 4.
  • High-budget catamarans like Lagoon 52 and Catana 50 are built with advanced safety features such as a self-tacking jib and an automatic reefing system.

best catamaran under 50 feet

On this page:

Best liveaboard catamarans for all budgets.

When choosing the best liveaboard catamaran, there are questions you need to ask yourself such as:

  • Are you planning to live aboard full-time or just part-time?
  • Will you be traveling extensively or staying in one location?
  • Do you plan to fish or engage in other water activities?
If you plan to sail around the world and are not sure what catamaran size is perfect for your goal , you can get some tips from this article.

You may also need to check your budget. Keep in mind that the purchase price is just one aspect of the cost of owning a catamaran. See how much it actually costs to buy and own a catamaran in this article.

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You may also need to factor in ongoing maintenance, repairs, and other expenses, such as docking costs. Docking costs depend on the location of the marina and the actual size of your catamaran, but to give you an idea of how much it costs to dock a catamaran , here's an article that can help you.

The best liveaboard catamarans have these most important features :

Living space Look for a catamaran with an open layout, large windows, and plenty of natural light to create a spacious and inviting living area.

Galley and heads Choose a catamaran with a well-designed galley that is easy to use and has plenty of storage space. The heads should be spacious and comfortable, with a separate shower area if possible.

Performance and handling You might want to opt for a catamaran with a good sail plan and sailing controls that are easy to operate. If you plan to do offshore cruising, perhaps consider a catamaran with a shallow draft and good seaworthiness.

Safety and seaworthiness Choose a catamaran with sturdy construction and good safety features, such as handrails and lifelines. You might want to make sure also that the catamaran is designed for single-handed sailing if you plan to sail solo.

Estimated price range: $400,000 - $500,000

Living space inside Leopard 40

The Leopard 40 has a spacious interior with a modern and stylish design. It features four cabins and two heads, providing ample living space for up to 8 people.

The cabins are well-ventilated and well-lit, with large windows that offer panoramic views of the sea. The saloon is also spacious, with comfortable seating and a large dining table.

Galley and heads of Leopard 40

The galley is well-equipped with a large refrigerator, freezer, gas stove, oven, and plenty of storage space. The heads are also well-designed, with separate shower stalls and electric toilets.

Performance and handling of Leopard 40

The Leopard 40 has a sleek and streamlined design that allows it to move smoothly through the water. The twin engines provide plenty of power, and the boat is easy to maneuver even in tight spaces.

The boat also comes with a range of performance features, such as a large sail area, a self-tacking jib, and a full-batten mainsail.

Safety and seaworthiness of Leopard 40

The Leopard 40 is built to the highest standards of safety, with a strong and durable hull, high-quality rigging, and a range of safety features such as lifelines, handrails, and safety harnesses.

The boat also has excellent stability, which makes it very safe and comfortable to sail in rough seas.

Estimated price range: $450,000 - $550,000

Living space inside Lucia 40

The Lucia 40 is a spacious catamaran that offers plenty of living space for a family or a group of friends. It has a large saloon with a U-shaped sofa and a dining table that can comfortably seat six people.

The saloon is surrounded by large windows that provide plenty of natural light and a great view of the surroundings. The catamaran has four cabins and two heads, which provide ample sleeping space for up to eight people. The cabins are well-appointed and offer plenty of storage space.

Galley and heads of Lucia 40

The galley on the Lucia 40 is located in the saloon and is well-equipped with a three-burner stove, oven, fridge, and plenty of counter space for food preparation.

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The two heads are located in each hull and are equipped with a shower, toilet, and sink. They are spacious and provide plenty of privacy.

The Lucia 40 is a performance-oriented catamaran

The Lucia 40 is a performance-oriented catamaran that is designed for cruising in comfort. It has a sleek and modern design that allows it to sail efficiently in a wide range of wind and sea conditions.

The catamaran is equipped with a full batten mainsail and a furling genoa, which provide excellent sail performance. The helm station is located on the flybridge, which provides excellent visibility and allows for easy handling.

The Lucia 40 is a safe and seaworthy catamaran

The Lucia 40 has a solid fiberglass hull and a structural bulkhead that provides excellent strength and rigidity. The catamaran is equipped with all the necessary safety equipment, including life jackets, flares, fire extinguishers, and a first aid kit.

It is also equipped with a comprehensive navigation system, which includes GPS, radar, and an autopilot, to ensure safe and accurate navigation.

Estimated price range: $350,000 - $450,000

Living space inside Lagoon 400

The Lagoon 400 offers ample room for passengers to relax and socialize. The main saloon is located on the same level as the cockpit, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience.

The saloon features a large dining table and comfortable seating, while the cockpit provides additional seating and a table for outdoor dining. The cabins are also spacious and comfortable, with plenty of storage space.

Galley and heads of Lagoon 400

The galley is well-equipped with a stove, oven, refrigerator, and sink, making it easy to prepare meals while underway. The heads are also well-designed, with separate shower stalls and electric toilets.

The Lagoon 400 has good sailing performance

This boat has a generous sail area, a powerful rig, and a light displacement, which allows it to sail well in a variety of conditions. The boat's twin hulls also help to reduce drag and increase stability, which makes it easier to sail in choppy seas or high winds.

The Lagoon 400 is also equipped with twin engines, which allow it to be easily maneuvered in tight spaces or when docking. The boat's shallow draft, which is one of the advantages of sailing a catamaran , also makes it suitable for exploring shallow waters or anchoring in secluded bays.

The Lagoon 400 is designed to be safe and seaworthy

The boat's twin hulls provide excellent stability, which reduces the risk of capsizing. See a detailed comparison between catamaran and monohull in this article.

The boat is also equipped with a range of safety features, including a solid fiberglass hull, watertight bulkheads, and a high freeboard, which helps to keep the boat dry and reduce the risk of swamping.

The boat is also built to withstand rough seas and strong winds, with a reinforced hull and high freeboard. It also features a range of safety features, including lifelines, safety harnesses, and an emergency tiller.

The Bali 4.0 is a catamaran that offers ample living space

The cockpit and saloon are on the same level, which creates a large open-plan living area. The saloon has a U-shaped seating area, which can comfortably seat six people, and a large table that can be lowered to create a double berth.

Galley and heads of Bali 4.0

The galley of Bali 4.0 is located aft of the saloon and is well-equipped with a three-burner stove, oven, refrigerator, and sink. The boat has four cabins, each with its own en-suite head and shower. The cabins are spacious and comfortable, and the heads are modern and well-designed.

Performance and handling of Bali 4.0

The Bali 4.0 has a self-tacking jib and a fully battened mainsail, which makes it easy to sail short-handed. The boat is also equipped with a Code 0 sail, which provides additional downwind performance. The boat's helm is responsive and easy to control, and the boat is stable and predictable in a variety of conditions.

Safety and seaworthiness of Bali 4.0

The Bali 4.0 is a seaworthy boat that is designed to be safe and comfortable in a variety of conditions. The boat has a high freeboard, which provides additional safety and protection from waves and spray.

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The boat also has a solid foredeck, which provides additional safety when moving around the boat. It is also equipped with a full suite of safety equipment, including life rafts, life jackets, and safety harnesses.

Estimated price range: $500,000 - $600,000

Living space inside Bali 4.3

The Bali 4.3 has a large saloon with panoramic views, plenty of natural light, and a modern design. The saloon is equipped with a large U-shaped sofa, a dining table, and a chart table. The cockpit is also spacious and features a dining table, a sunbathing area, and a helm station.

Galley and heads of Bali 4.3

The galley and heads on the Bali 4.3 are well-designed and offer plenty of space and storage. It is located in the saloon and features a 3-burner stove, an oven, a large refrigerator, and plenty of counter space. The heads are located in each hull and feature a separate shower, electric toilets, and plenty of storage.

The Bali 4.3 is a fast and agile catamaran. It features a self-tacking jib and a square-top mainsail, which make it easy to handle and maneuver. The boat is also equipped with twin engines, which provide good speed and maneuverability.

The Bali 4.3 is a very safe and stable catamaran

The Bali 4.3 features a solid construction, a high freeboard, and a wide beam, which make it very stable and comfortable even in rough seas. The boat is also equipped with a number of safety features, including lifelines, safety harnesses, and life jackets.

Living space of Catana 42

The Catana 42 has a spacious interior layout with plenty of natural light and ventilation. The saloon and cockpit are integrated into one living area, which provides a comfortable and functional living space.

Galley and heads of Catana 42

The galley is located in the port hull and features a three-burner stove, oven, refrigerator, and ample storage space. The heads are located in the starboard hull, with one head serving as the owner's suite en-suite and the other serving the remaining three cabins.

The Catana 42 an excellent performer

The catamaran is designed to be fast and stable, with a high bridge deck clearance and a narrow hull-to-waterline beam ratio. It also has a large sail area, which provides good speed in light winds.

The Catana 42 is built with safety and seaworthiness

The boat is designed to be self-righting in the event of a capsize , and the hulls are foam-filled for added buoyancy. The boat also features a robust construction with a reinforced keel and rudder, making it suitable for offshore cruising.

Estimated price range: $600,000 - $700,000

Living space of Nautitech 46 Open

The Nautitech 46 Open is a spacious and comfortable catamaran that offers ample living space, a well-equipped galley, and multiple heads for convenience. The living area is open and airy, with large windows and plenty of natural light.

Galley and heads of Nautitech 46 Open

The galley is fully equipped with modern appliances and ample storage space, making it easy to prepare meals and entertain guests. The heads are also well-appointed, with modern fixtures and plenty of space for comfort.

Performance and handling of Nautitech 46 Open

The Nautitech 46 Open is a capable and responsive catamaran that is easy to sail and maneuver. The boat's twin hulls provide excellent stability and make it easy to handle in a variety of conditions.

The boat's rig is designed for performance, with a large sail area and a well-balanced design that allows for easy handling and excellent speed.

Safety and seaworthiness of Nautitech 46 Open

The boat is built to the highest standards of safety and durability, with a strong and sturdy construction that can withstand the rigors of offshore sailing. The boat is also equipped with all the necessary safety features, including life rafts, life jackets, and safety harnesses, to ensure that you and your crew stay safe on the water.

Estimated price range: $700,000 - $800,000

Living space inside Lagoon 450F

The Lagoon 450F is a spacious catamaran that offers plenty of room for living and entertaining. The saloon is large and open, with plenty of natural light and ventilation.

The cockpit is also spacious and comfortable, with a large dining table and seating for up to eight people. The cabins are well-designed and offer plenty of storage space, and the bathrooms are modern and well-appointed.

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Galley and heads of Lagoon 450F

The Lagoon 450F has a well-equipped galley that is perfect for preparing meals while at sea. The galley features a large refrigerator and freezer, a three-burner stove, an oven, a microwave, and plenty of counter space. The heads are also well-designed and offer plenty of space and privacy.

Performance and handling of Lagoon 450F

The Lagoon 450F is a fast and stable catamaran that is easy to handle. The boat is powered by two Yanmar diesel engines, which provide plenty of power and speed.

The boat is also equipped with a high-performance sail plan, which allows for easy and efficient sailing.

The Lagoon 450F is designed to handle a variety of weather conditions

This boat is built to the highest standards of safety and quality and is equipped with all of the necessary safety equipment, including life rafts, life jackets, and emergency flares.

The boat is also designed to be self-sufficient, with a large water tank and generator, which allows for extended periods of time at sea.

Living space inside Helia 44

The Helia 44 has a spacious and well-designed interior that maximizes living space. The saloon features large windows that provide plenty of natural light and offer stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

The seating area is comfortable and can accommodate up to 8 people. The cabins are also spacious and well-appointed, with plenty of storage space and en-suite bathrooms.

Galley and heads of Helia 44

The galley on the Helia 44 is well-equipped and designed for easy use. It features a large refrigerator, a 3-burner gas stove, an oven, and a microwave. The heads are also well-designed, with separate shower stalls and plenty of storage space.

The Helia 44 is designed for excellent performance and handling

The Helia 44 has a powerful rig and a high aspect ratio sail plan that provides excellent speed and maneuverability. The boat also has a shallow draft, which makes it easy to navigate in shallow waters.

The Helia 44 is built to the highest safety standards

This boat has a solid construction that provides excellent stability and strength. It also features a range of safety equipment, including life rafts, EPIRBs, and fire extinguishers.

Estimated price range: $700,000 - $1,000,000

Living space inside Leopard 48

The Leopard 48 features a spacious saloon with a comfortable seating area and a large dining table. The saloon is surrounded by panoramic windows that provide plenty of natural light and stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

The catamaran also has a large cockpit area with a dining table and comfortable seating, perfect for outdoor dining and relaxation.

Galley and heads of Leopard 48

The galley on the Leopard 48 is well-equipped with modern appliances and ample storage space. It features a large refrigerator, a freezer, a three-burner stove, and an oven. The catamaran also has three heads, each with a shower, sink, and toilet.

Performance and handling of Leopard 48

The Leopard 48 is a high-performance catamaran that is easy to handle and maneuver. It has a powerful sail plan and lightweight construction that allows it to sail smoothly and efficiently even in light winds.

The catamaran is also equipped with a powerful engine that provides excellent speed and maneuverability.

Safety and seaworthiness of Leopard 48

The Leopard 48 is a safe and seaworthy catamaran that is designed to handle even the toughest ocean conditions. It has a sturdy construction and a stable platform that provides excellent stability and safety.

The catamaran is also equipped with modern safety features such as a GPS navigation system, a radar, and an autopilot.

Estimated price range: $600,000 - $900,000

Living space inside Nautitech 46 Fly

The Nautitech 46 Fly is a spacious catamaran that offers plenty of room for living and entertaining. The interior is bright and airy, thanks to large windows and an open floor plan.

There are four cabins and four heads, making it a great option for families or groups of friends. The salon is comfortable and features a dining area and a well-equipped galley.

Galley and heads of Nautitech 46 Fly

The galley on the Nautitech 46 Fly is well-equipped with a refrigerator, freezer, stove, oven, and plenty of counter space. There is also a double sink and a dishwasher. The heads are spacious and comfortable, with separate shower stalls and electric toilets.

Performance and handling of the Nautitech 46 Fly

The Nautitech 46 Fly is a pleasure to sail, with good speed and handling. The boat is responsive and easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces. The twin engines provide plenty of power and make docking and maneuvering a breeze.

The Nautitech 46 Fly is a safe and seaworthy vessel

The boat is designed to handle rough seas and strong winds, making it a great option for offshore sailing. There are also plenty of safety features, including lifelines, safety harnesses, and a well-equipped first aid kit.

Estimated price range: $1,000,000 - $2,000,000

The living space of Catana 50

The living space is designed for comfort and entertainment. The spacious saloon offers panoramic views and ample seating for guests.

The interior is finished with high-quality materials and features modern amenities such as air conditioning, a fully equipped galley, and plenty of storage space. It also has four spacious cabins and four heads, making it ideal for families or groups of friends.

Galley and heads of Catana 50

The galley on the Catana 50 is well-equipped with a large refrigerator, freezer, oven, and stove. The countertops are made of durable and easy-to-clean materials, and there is plenty of storage space for food and cooking utensils. The heads are spacious and feature modern fixtures and finishes.

The Catana 50 is designed for performance and speed

The catamaran's lightweight construction and high-tech materials make it fast and agile, while its twin daggerboards and rudders provide excellent maneuverability and control. The boat is easy to handle, even in challenging conditions, and offers a smooth and comfortable ride.

The Catana 50 is a safe and seaworthy vessel

The catamaran's hull design and construction are engineered to withstand the rigors of offshore sailing, and the boat is equipped with all the necessary safety equipment, including life rafts, EPIRBs, and fire extinguishers.

Need a complete list of safety equipment for your boat ? Here's an article that might be helpful for you.

The vessel also features a high freeboard, wide decks, and a sturdy rigging system, making it a stable and secure platform for sailing in all conditions.

Living space of Lagoon 52

The Lagoon 52 is known for its spacious interior and exterior living areas. The main salon is located on the bridge deck and features a large dining table, comfortable seating, and panoramic views.

The cockpit is also spacious and has plenty of seating for outdoor dining and lounging. The cabins are well-appointed and offer plenty of storage space and natural light.

Galley and heads of Lagoon 52

The galley on the Lagoon 52 is equipped with modern appliances and ample counter space, making it easy to prepare meals for large groups. There are also multiple heads on the boat, each with a shower and toilet, making it convenient for guests to freshen up after a day of exploring.

Performance and handling of Lagoon 52

The Lagoon 52 is designed for optimal performance and handling. It has a powerful sail plan and a lightweight construction that allows it to move swiftly through the water

The boat is also easy to handle, even with a small crew, thanks to its user-friendly design and advanced technology.

Safety and seaworthiness are top priorities on the Lagoon 52

The boat is built to withstand rough seas and harsh weather conditions, with sturdy construction and advanced safety features such as a self-tacking jib and an automatic reefing system.

The boat also has a spacious cockpit and wide decks that make it easy to move around and handle the boat in all conditions:

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The Power Catamaran Compilation

  • By Yachting Staff
  • Updated: December 21, 2018

Power Catamarans have been growing leaps and bounds in popularity, and, in lengths and widths. And for good reason. These cruise-centric yachts offer homelike livability for avid travelers, are fuel efficient and are fairly intuitive to run. Power cats are popular in the bareboat charter market too, for these very reasons.

Here, we take a look at 12 catamarans ranging from a cruising-couple-size 36-footer to a 78-footer for friends, family and some more friends. And there are myriad power options: outboards, diesel inboards, hybrid or even all-solar power.

Fountaine Pajot MY44

fountain pajot my44

The Fountaine Pajot MY44 , a creation of Italian architect Pierangelo Andreani and French designer Daniel Andrieu, has a main deck that’s open from the aft-deck seating all the way forward to the starboard helm station. The sense of spaciousness is significant, for several reasons. First, four glass panels aft can all slide to port, creating an indoor-outdoor space with the aft deck and salon. In the salon, 32-inch-high windows extend for 12 feet down the sides of the yacht, with three sections per side, bringing in natural light along with the three forward panes that comprise the windshield. Finally, 6-foot-6-inch headroom provides vertical clearance, with a 21-foot-7-inch beam that adds interior roominess while keeping the yacht stable.

Read more: Fountaine Pajot MY44

Silent-Yachts 55

silent 55 yacht

The ideas about which solar panels, electric motors, inverters and the like to use — and more importantly, Michael Köhler says, how to configure them — became the basis for the brand Silent-Yachts. The company offers 55-, 64- and 79-foot catamarans that run on solar-electric propulsion. The Silent 55 premiered this fall, and the 64 is sold out for the next two years, Köhler says.

Read more: Silent 55

Horizon PC74

Horizon PC74

As founder and director of The Powercat Company, a Horizon Power Catamarans distributor, Stuart Hegerstrom had long believed that catamaran builders needed to design their yachts to more stylish standards.

“The boats were very boxy,” he says, based on his years of experience with cats in the charter market. He and his partner, Richard Ford, asked Horizon to produce models that had high-end finishes and looked good inside and out.

The Horizon team brought in mega-yacht designer JC Espinosa to work with its own craftsmen. The result aboard the Horizon PC74 is a catamaran with exterior styling, layout and functionality that should appeal to private and charter owners alike.

Read more: Horizon PC74

aquila 36

The Aquila 36 is a departure from her sisterships in that she is an outboard-powered, express-cruiser-style catamaran, but she also adheres to MarineMax’s philosophies.

With a single main living level from bow to stern and a beam of 14 feet 7 inches, the Aquila 36 is like a bowrider on steroids. She has seating that can handle 20 adults for outings and barbecues, and there are two staterooms below, one in each hull, for family weekending. The staterooms have nearly queen-size berths, en suite heads, stowage and 6-foot-6-inch headroom.

Read more: Aquila 36

Lagoon Seventy 8 Powercat

Lagoon Seventy 8

Lagoon is a division of Groupe Beneteau, the world’s largest builder of sailing yachts, and the Lagoon Seventy 8 Powercat is a developmental sistership of its Seventy 7 super sailing cat. The Seventy series yachts are built at Construction Navale Bordeaux in France, which had to add a new yard to construct these catamarans because they require separate stern molds for the power and sail versions.

Read more: Lagoon Seventy 8 Powercat

Horizon PC60

horizon pc60

To understand the Horizon PC60 power catamaran , you need to put aside preconceived notions about midsize yacht amenities. For example, main-deck master suites are the province of yachts over 100 feet length overall. Incorrect. This 60-footer has an elegant and spacious owner’s stateroom on the same level as the salon. If you want a 14-foot center console tender on a 60-foot yacht, you have to tow it. Wrong again. On the PC60, you hoist it onto the upper deck, no problem.

Read more: Horizon PC60

40 Open Sunreef Power

40 Open Sunreef Power

Sunreef is known for pushing the boundaries of catamaran design, incorporating four adjustable hydrofoils into a twin-hulled speedboat.

The Polish builder is one of several European builders (including Evo, Fjord, Wider and Wally) transforming the open ­day-boat category with creative designs. ­Beyond its hydrofoils, the 40 Open Sunreef Power ‘s cockpit has side “wings” along the aft gunwales that fold out at anchor, widening the beam from 17 feet to 22 feet 9 inches.

Read more: 40 Open Sunreef Power

Sunreef 50 Amber Limited Edition

50 Amber Limited Edition

Sunreef Yachts introduced its 50 Amber Limited Edition , with plans to launch just 10 hulls of the exclusive design.

The Sunreef 50 Amber Limited Edition will have a carbon fiber mast and boom, four layout options and numerous amber-colored elements, including the hull.

Read more: Sunreef 50 Amber Limited Edition

Lagoon 630 Motor Yacht

Lagoon 630 motoryacht

Fitted with the optional twin 300-horsepower Volvo Penta D4 diesels, the Lagoon 630 MY burns only 1.64 gph total at 6 knots, giving a theoretical range of 2,952 nautical miles with standard tankage of 793 gallons. Hull No. 1 had an optional 502-gallon tank, giving it transatlantic range.

Luxury, stability and economy are all hallmarks of Lagoon’s return to luxury motor yachts. If you can take a ride, it will be worth your time.

Read more: Lagoon 630 Motor Yacht

Fountaine Pajot MY 37

Fountaine Pajot MY 37

The Fountaine Pajot MY 37 easily accommodates the seafaring family with three- and four-stateroom options. In the three-cabin version, called ­Maestro, you’ll find an owner’s suite in the portside hull with a queen-size berth and en suite head. Two double-berth cabins and one more head are available for the kids. If your brood is bigger, the Quator setup features four double cabins with two heads.

The 37 is a traveler and can be powered with twin 150 hp or 220 hp Volvo Penta diesels. Top speed with the smaller engines is 17 knots, while it’s 20 knots with the bigger power plants. Interestingly, at 7 knots, the fuel consumption is the same, with either set of motors offering voyagers a 1 ,000-nm range.

Read more: Fountaine Pajot MY 37

Solarwave 64

Solarwave 64

Many yachts boast eco chops because they have a handful of solar panels that power the microwave or navigation lights. The Solarwave 64 , launched last summer, has the potential to run on sunshine alone. The vessel’s 42 solar panels generate 15 kW that are stored in batteries weighing about 1,300 pounds. They connect to electric motors.

Read more: Solarwave 64

Glider SS18

SS18, Glider Yachts

This British builder says it strives for design innovation and the Glider SS18 displays that DNA, the result of 8 years of research and development. She has a head-turning, catamaran hull form constructed from aluminum and composite materials. She is 60 feet LOA with a 17-foot beam, and has a relatively shallow 1-foot draft. Powered by quad Yamaha 300 hp outboards, she can reportedly reach 50 knots, and with her Stability Control System (SCS), should give a smooth ride while doing it.

Read more: Glider SS18

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12 Best Catamaran Sailboats

Best Catamaran Sailboats | Life of Sailing

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

The appeal of the catamaran sailboats in terms of speed , stability, and the ability to embark on long-range cruising has made them hugely popular with today's sailors. But what are the best catamaran sailboats?

Even though catamaran sailboats have become increasingly popular in the last few years, they have a truly rich legacy as one of the most sought after vessels for bluewater cruising.

Thanks to their incredibly wide beams and bigger daft, catamarans have become remarkably favorable for sailors looking to go for long-distance voyages, overnight cruising, and day sailing.

And if space is paramount for you when out there on the water, a catamaran sailboat is the only way to go as they offer extraordinary space to allow you to spend more time on the water with friends and family.

But even with all these amazing features, you're probably still wondering; what are the best catamaran sailboats?

Like their monohull counterparts, choosing the best catamaran sailboat can be quite overwhelming since there are lots of them out there. They come in a wide variety of designs and sizes ranging from small catamarans to huge ones.

The best catamaran sailboats can easily clock 250-mile voyages, offer incredible performance, and have layouts that can be easily optimized for individuals, charter markets, and great accommodation. In essence, the best catamaran sailboats offer respectable performance and offer good load-carrying ability.

That being said, here are some of the best catamaran sailboats that you can get your hands on.

Table of contents

Best Catamarans

{{boat-info="/boats/manta-42"}}

Even though many multihulls are no longer built in the United States these days, the Manta 42 is a true American-built catamaran that brings good living and good value into one package. Designed cleverly for easy handling, this American built catamaran is a great choice for a liveaboard cruiser for sailors looking to go for long-distance voyages. Thanks to its trademark high bows and an enormously curved incorporated forward crossbeam, this catamaran is easily recognizable even from a distance.

It is designed with a uniquely fixed crossbeam, which is very different from conventional aluminum cross beams that support the tension of the forestay. This fixed crossbeam allows for a little bit of movement thereby helping in absorbing enormous twisting forces of the bows. As such, you have to keep in mind that there may be resultant stress crack particularly in the bow area of the vessel.

All in all, the Manta 42 is a superb offshore cruising catamaran that offers a good sail-area-to-displacement ratio as well as plenty of space and accommodation. The cockpit area is refined, luxurious, and is designed with additional stainless pushpit contraptions to help in holding objects such as wind vanes, dinghies, and solar panels. The boat's quality in terms of performance and stability is the benchmark of what a catamaran should be.

Fountaine Pajot Elba 45

{{boat-info="/boats/fountaine-pajot-elba-45"}}

Recently named the "Boat of the Year" for 2019 by Cruising World Magazine and Sail Magazine, the Elba 45 is the latest model in the incredible line of Fountaine Pajot catamarans. This boat was designed to replace the outgoing Helia 44 and stands to be one of the most popular catamarans with Fountain Pajot having sold over 100 Elba 45 hulls long before even the first one emerged from production.

This French-built cat brings to the fore a well-thought-out, safe, and dependable features with 10% less drag, efficient motoring, top-notch performance, and high speeds. It's also designed with fixed stub keels and slightly aft-raked bows, which are all essential in enhancing windward performance; something that most catamarans struggle with.

To improve on safety, the keels of this amazing catamaran sailboat are glued into a particularly designed recess in the hulls. This is to ensure that there are no keel bolts that can rip out and put the boat in danger if the boat gets grounded or in the event of a collision. The rig is also ICW friendly and is a true representation of a standard catamaran setup.

This is, without a doubt, a modern-looking cruising catamaran that has a low-profile lounging space on its deck, high topsides and bows as well as a more pronounced reverse sheer that's essential in minimizing the bulk of the windows while creating additional and useful volume below. This is a true catamaran that occupies a sweet spot for those looking to sail along the bay or for those adventurous sailors looking to set sail for more ambitious offshore cruising plans.

{{boat-info="/boats/leopard-48"}}

With its fine design, straightforward systems, and easy handling, the Leopard 48 has everything it needs to be ranked among the distinguished category of the best catamaran sailboats. This is an excellent multihull that is structured with advanced materials, designs, and innovations that are meant to be fun, spacious, and comfortable.

Designed in South Africa by Simonis-Voogd, is probably the best design in the Leopard family of catamarans. Its two hulls are vacuum-bagged using balsa core to offer maximum firmness while ensuring that the weight is on the minimum. This is done by articulately regulating the level of resin in the layup. With such types of hull shapes, this catamaran sailboat is very fast and can consistently clock 12 knots of speed against the currents.

The boat is also designed with shallow keels as they're filled with closed-cell polyurethane foam that's of great importance in increasing buoyancy and preventing water ingress. To enhance the safety of the vessel, the stern and bow both have bulkheads that are essential in keeping out that water if the sailboat is involved in a collision.

The hulls of this boat are deep and narrow, particularly below the waterline. They also curve higher up to practically reduce the wetted surface area while offering enough deck space and plenty of room for accommodations. Its cockpit is another excellent feature thanks to its lavish spaces that give you the chance of kicking back and relaxing.

This boat is designed to offer superior livability, quick and easy to handle features, as well as enough space for friends and family. It is designed with beautiful lines and immense practicality for those who want to go on long cruising voyages.

Antares 44i

While many people often believe that voluminous cruising catamarans should be used as charter boats, the Antares 44i brings a very different perspective altogether. Designed in Argentina as a complete bluewater catamaran, this is a boat that's specifically built for private boat owners looking for a sturdy and well-equipped bluewater cruiser. This is an absolutely gorgeous catamaran that has a fully-equipped cockpit just to ensure that you can safely operate it even when shorthanded.

Like most catamarans, the Antares 44i is designed with features that allow for long-distance voyages. It comes with a minimum bridge deck clearance of 30 inches, which is essential in mitigating bridge deck slap. The helm station is designed to offer excellent visibility over the coach roof without having to perch the helmsman high above the cockpit.

If you're planning to make those long-distance cruising to exotic places, you'll appreciate this boat's layout. The galley is put down in the port hull so that it doesn't compromise the size of the galley and the saloon. The forward-facing navigation station is up there with the best and is up to offshore standards. And that's not all; the Antares 44i comes with good mounting points for electronics, a large table, comfortable seats, and provides brilliant visibility outside.

This boat is perfectly suited for extended offshore cruising and is a great reminder for anyone who thinks that all catamarans are charter boats and all offshore boats are monohulls.

{{boat-info="/boats/dolphin-ocema-42"}}

Designed by Philipe Pouvreau in northern Brazil, the Dolphin Ocema 42 is a truly unique catamaran sailboat that goes against the conventional norm of catamarans. It is equipped with daggerboards, which are essential in enabling it to point higher on the wind while reducing the wetted surface when running or anchoring in shallow surfaces. This, however, requires a higher level of expertise in sailing. This is because lifting the daggerboards higher up will expose the rudders while the daggerboards can also interfere with the hulls in the event that the vessel runs aground.

But even with that, the Dolphin 42 balances incredible performance and cruising comfort in a very compact package; something that is not very easy in bluewater cruising. That's why it's designed using a foam core to make it lightweight by reducing weight wherever possible. This vessel will most likely never let you down if you want to circumnavigate the bluewater on a high-performance boat that is safe and comfortable.

So if you've been looking for a real sailing catamaran that doubles up as a very comfortable liveaboard sailboat , look no further than the Dolphin 42.

{{boat-info="/boats/catana-50"}}

Regarded as the best built and most stylish cruising multihull, the Catana 50 is a very huge catamaran sailboat. Measuring about 50 feet long with a beam of about 26 feet, this is an amazing catamaran that will test your sailing skills as a single sailor or if you're planning to sail shorthanded.

This boat is designed with a rig that gives you the option of using either a screecher or a self-tending jib. This may seem complex since the sheets are led to winches near each wheel while all other controls lead to a centerline winch that's located in the cockpit. But even with that, this sailboat can be easily tacked once on the course.

This is a real performance-oriented catamaran with efficient hulls and rigs allowing for top speed. This vessel is also designed with a long waterline and a subtle underwater shape at the bow to help in increasing volume while minimizing wave drag. The stern platforms can help in stretching the waterline length while also providing easy access from a dock or a dinghy. The board trunks are also very strong and sturdy to protect the integrity of the hulls if a collision occurs.

In essence, this is a very modern catamaran that's designed to safely make long-distance passages with ease. It is subdued in terms of styling but this doesn't mean that it falls short as far as performance is concerned.

Atlantic 42

{{boat-info="/boats/atlantic-42"}}

Designed in 1993, the A42 has cultivated a legion of fiercely loyal fans thanks to its efficiency and aesthetic. This is the smallest of the Atlantic cruising catamaran line and is hugely popular with sailors thanks to its ease of handling, ocean-going capabilities, and superb use of space. From the forward cockpit, pilothouse to the sleeping cabins, and brilliant galleys everything about this cat is a true classic.

Unlike most catamarans, the Atlantic 42 is designed with a waist-high cockpit that's located forward of the pilothouse just behind the mast. It brings forth a solid construction thanks to the large metal girder-like bearers that run across the bulkheads. This helps the vessel in having the utmost strength, better air circulation under the engine, and a high level of flexibility as far as the size of the engine and its positioning is concerned.

Initially, the boat's style and its outlook were considered conservative but it soon became clear that it is built of high-quality materials and to last. The internal construction of the boat is impressive, to say the least. The exterior looks very beautiful and perhaps much more beautiful than most boats today. Its large aft cabin accommodation is a top drawer while the space separating en suite heads and shower compartments are considered a bonus.

{{boat-info="/boats/fountaine-pajot-bahia-46"}}

If you were to board the French-built Fountaine Pajot Bahia 46, you'll agree that the high-quality of workmanship, layout, and efficient use of space is quite exciting, to say the least. This cat remains very popular among sailors thanks to its easy handling features and incredible performance under the sails. Well, this may not come as a surprise to many of us given that the Fountain Pajot is known for building some of the most remarkable cruising catamarans out there that it can be quite overwhelming to narrow down to a single vessel, but the Bahia 46 simply stands out.

This vessel is designed with hulls that are broader than those of many other catamarans. It's also designed with centerboards and daggerboards that are meant to enhance its performance. These are essential in minimizing draft while ensuring reliability, generous bilge, and in helping to protect the rudders and propellers.

This boat is big enough to manage any type of serious offshore sailing. This is one of the best cruising catamarans for anyone looking for the right vessel for long-distance sailing. This vessel has a very more generous rig than most cruising catamarans, which is essential in enhancing its performance. The six-post Bimini is very strong and clean and can perfectly hold dinghies.

In terms of its look, the Bahia 36 is designed with gorgeous lines with the deck and hulls sculpted with lines that add a touch of elegance to the overall look of an already excellent catamaran sailboat.

Gemini 105MC

{{boat-info="/boats/gemini-105mc"}}

Whether you're looking for a comfortable catamaran vessel to take you for a weekend sailing trip or a long sabbatical vacation on the oceans, the Gemini 105MC is a very satisfactory liveaboard catamaran vessel that offers spacious accommodation, thoughtful design, and a stable cruising platform for anyone who wants to have some good time on the water.

Designed by the legendary Tony Smith, this is somewhat a sailing cottage. Like a land cottage, it is cozy, comfortable, and very safe. This is essentially a 35 feet catamaran that offers great value for any sailing looking for a reasonably-priced catamaran sailboat for the weekend or holiday cruising.

This boat is designed with incredibly slim hulls, which are teardrop-shaped with flat bottoms and smaller wetted surface area. This is to ensure that drag is minimized and to lead to more leeway under sail. Each of the boat's hull is designed with a kick-up centerboard is of great importance in enhancing the vessel's windward pointing capability. This boat also has its rudders raised to enable it to seamlessly cruise in shallow waters where most vessels would otherwise run aground.

The eccentric narrow beam, which measures about 40% of the boat's length, is very different from today's 50%. However, its low center helps in keeping its stable, upright, and of course, safe.

Lagoon 450 F

{{boat-info="/boats/lagoon-450-f"}}

If you're looking for a catamaran sailboat that offers prestige at its peak, look no further than the Lagoon 450. This cat is widely known for offering an all-around comfort without compromising its beauty, spaciousness, class, and elegance. This is an elaborate French catamaran that brings to the table fantastic craftsmanship while leaving nothing to chance.

This is a very safe 45 feet catamaran that's not just comfortable but also very luxurious. The deck layout is centered on an amazing flybridge, which has been redesigned and redefined to offer both the traditional and modern outlook. You can very easily access the bridge, engine controls, steering station in a matter of seconds. As a result, this boat is efficiently designed to give you the ultimate control of almost every situation while on the water.

The spacious and luxurious interior of this boat is worth experiencing. The cabins and saloons are perfectly lit. We're talking about four to six cabins, eight to twelve berths, and up to four bathrooms. In essence, this boat can comfortably sleep eight to twelve people. This boat is designed to offer ultra-modern accommodations and amenities that come with little but amazing touches; all designed to make your life inside the catamaran enjoyable.

{{boat-info="/boats/gunboat-62"}}

An original performance catamaran cruiser from the iconic Gunboat manufacturer, the Gunboat 62 has truly cemented its place as one of the best catamaran sailboats to ever grace the oceans. Honestly speaking, this cat-inspired a whole range of other incredible boats including HH66 Catamaran and the Balance 526.

This is a boat that can perform admirably well in storms with a speed of over 35 knots despite being built using epoxy and E-glass with carbon-fiber structural components. It's designed with a distinct angular outline than most catamaran sailboats of its size and category. This is a vessel that was built for people looking to add more stuff and more gear for their voyages. In other words, you can have all the gear and equipment on this boat and still outperform a racing monohull of the same size.

Thanks to its lightweight feature, this vessel can sail upwind at speeds of over 17 knots and pinch up to 30 degrees. Just for comparison, the Gunboat 62 can tack through 95 degrees and still outperform the best racing monohulls. This boat is designed with a comfortable helm seat that offers 360-degree visibility as well as plenty of storage space, a functional working surface, and a luxurious cabin. Like many performance catamarans, the Gunboat 62 can attain about 20 knots if the conditions are right.

Privilege 615

{{boat-info="/boats/privilege-615"}}

Combining elegance, comfort, and style, the Privilege 615 is a lovely catamaran sailboat that seems to be always ready for a long offshore voyage. The roots of this incredible cat can be traced back to the 1980s when Philippe Jeantot opened up a boat-building company in France. As one of the best productions from the company, the privilege 615 sports a flybridge that comes complete with twin wheels, a sprawling sunbed, and other excellent features that will make your bluewater cruising a breeze.

Whether you want the charter version or a privately-owned version, the Privilege 615 is one of the most versatile catamaran sailboats. Step inside this vessel and you'll instantly notice the quality of the wood finish and the elegance of design. The advanced navigation station is not only ultra-modern but is perfectly stationed at a dedicated corner where you can control everything while still having a conversation with your friends and family.

This boat comes with multiple sleeping configurations to ensure that you and your guests can live aboard the boat for months on end. Although the boat appears like some sort of maze on the inside, you'll easily get used to it when you enter the forward section. That's not all; this boat has gorgeous lines that make the exterior beautiful just like the interior. Its sleek profile, incredible volume, and versatile interior make it one of the best catamaran sailboats out there.

There you have it; these are the best catamaran sailboats out there. It doesn't matter the one you choose, these cats will make your day out on the water and will serve you just right for your offshore voyages or for day sailing along the bays.

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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2023 Boat Buyers Guide: Catamarans

  • By Karl Anderson
  • December 27, 2022

Catamaran spinning circles

The popularity of the multihull (aka catamaran or cat) fishing boats has never been greater, as more and more boatbuilders enter this growing segment of the market. The inherent stability of the catamaran design rolls less with the seas, making fishing offshore less tiresome and more comfortable. Available from 20 to 48 feet, catamarans typically offer a large fishing platform with generous storage and fishing amenities. They are available in a wide variety of deck layouts, including center-consoles, dual-consoles, and even pilothouse and express variants.

Catamaran foredeck

Big Picture

The large deck area of a catamaran enables many large underdeck storage lockers and insulated fish boxes in the sponsons. This gives anglers ample room for gear and the day’s catch. The catamaran’s stability, fishability, and smooth ride in rough seas make it attractive to anglers as well as day-cruisers. A center-console version adds 360 degrees of angler access to the rail. With the dual-console design, generous seating behind a beam-to-beam windshield makes for a great family fishing-friendly setup.

Live bait is one of the most popular types of fishing in virtually every coastal zone. To do it successfully requires optimal water capacity and proper flow. The minimum size of the outflow water plumbing should be twice the size of the inflow. The plumbing should have a drain at the bottom to shed scales at the end of the day, as well as a drain at the top of the well to adjust capacity and allow overflow. Above-deck transom-mounted wells should fully flood to the lids when running to keep baits from getting beat up. 

Tip: A sump box with multiple pumps in case a pump fails is the best setup for first-rate livewells. Conveniently located inflow and outflow valves make it easy to optimize the flow without tiring your bait from swimming too much in the well. 

Catamaran helm

Rod Storage

Having enough rod holders is essential to be successful for opportunity fishing. Look for vertical rod storage along the console and across the back of the T-top. Many models also have rod holders along the outboard transom wall. Having plenty of gunwale rod holders for drift- and kite-fishing is helpful. 

Tip: Placing adjustable swivel rod holders by Gemlux makes deep-dropping, lure-fishing and drifting even easier because they allow your rods to face the direction the baits are fishing, yet they can be swiveled back to keep rods from sticking out of the boat while running and docking. 

Manufacturers often offer multiple choices for horsepower, but whatever the choice, the engines must come in pairs. For example, you might order twin outboards (one for each sponson) or four outboards (two for each sponson), but single- or triple-outboard configurations are not common on a cat. Optimal selection should be made based on user load, weight of the boat, ride comfort , performance desires, and best case for resale. It’s a rare day when you can run wide open, but having more horsepower gives better torque at slower speeds and thus better control. Running larger engines slower gives better fuel efficiency too.

Tip: When possible, choose the highest horsepower offered because it typically leads to a better resale value with a shorter sales cycle. 

Power steering from engine manufacturer Optimus or SeaStar is essential with the higher horsepower required for larger boats, and it makes installing and operating the upper station in a tower far more practical and comfortable.

With the power demands of electronics, livewell pumps, stereo amps and more, it is wise to have at least two house batteries, and for larger boats, a third or fourth with a multibank charger for dockside. Each engine should have its own dedicated battery as well. 

Electronics

Typically choosing the largest screen or multiple screens that will fit on the console is best-case scenario for ease of use, ergonomics, and visibility. VHF radios, stereo controller, and equipment switches for lighting, pumps, and accessories should all be integrated with greatest visibility and ease of operator reach. 

Catamaran illustration

A Tale of Two Hulls 

A catamaran rides on pair of hulls, or sponsons, each thinner and sharper than  that of a similarly sized monohull boat. The narrow sponsons of the cat tend to slice easily through water to deliver a smooth ride, even in rough seas. At the same time, with the sponsons positioned out to the sides of the boat, cats tend to roll less, thus providing great stability to enhance crew comfort, security and safety. However, cats tend to corner more flatly than a monohull, and some hulls (but not all) tend to lean outward versus inward during a turn.

Catamaran running

Experts Say

Newer designs such as Invincible’s Morelli and Melvin-designed semi-asymmetrical sponsons eliminate some of the negatives of the cat design, such as “sneezing,” where water sprays out the front of the boat when hitting a wave. They’ve also controlled the uncomfortable “outboard lean” ­sensation common in older designs when in a turn. Once transitioned to a ­catamaran, many become true believers and preach the benefits of the design.

Editor Says: Saltwater fishing cats not only offer superb stability and smooth ride, but some also display exceptional speed and range. I recall one trip out of Key West, Florida, aboard an Invincible 40 Cat with four 350 hp outboards to the Dry Tortugas. It was a 60-mile run, and we made it there in 70 minutes. We caught more fish than our arms could bear, and then dashed back to Key West, arriving in time for cocktail hour on the same day. -Jim Hendricks, Staff Editor, Boating and Fishing Group

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  • Cabins: 4 or 5
  • Heads: 4 to 6
  • Berths: 6 to 12
  • Showers: 4 to 6

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best catamaran under 50 feet

best catamaran under 50 feet

  • LOA: 50 ft 6 in / 15.4 m
  • LWL: 48 ft 11 in / 14.9 m
  • Beam: 26 ft 5 in / 8.04 m
  • Draft: 5 ft 3 in / 1.61 m
  • Mast Height: 77 ft 2 in / 23.52 m
  • Bridgedeck Clearance: 3 ft 5 in / 1.03 m
  • Engine: 2x 57 hp
  • Propeller Dimensions: 3‐blade 18in x 14in
  • Engine No. Cylinders: 4
  • Fuel: 243 gal / 920 L

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  • Bunk Dimensions:  View Leopard Range Bunk Dimensions
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  • Water: 185 gal / 700 L
  • Mainsail Area (Standard): 964 sqft / 89.6 sqm
  • Mainsail Area (Square Top): 1019 sqft / 94.7 sqm
  • Genoa Area: 688 sqft / 63.9 sqm
  • Spinnaker Area: 204 sqft / 2199 sqm
  • Code 0 Area: 970 sqft / 90.1 sqm
  • Code D Area: 1690 sqft / 157 sqm
  • Total Upwind Area (Standard): 1652 sqft / 153.5 sqm
  • Polars:  View Leopard 50 Performance Documents
  • Displacement: 41888 lbs / 19000 kg
  • Load Carrying Capacity: 15432 lbs / 7000 kg
  • Holding Tank Capacity: 45 gal / 170 L

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best catamaran under 50 feet

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Best Catamarans Over 50 Feet

Best Catamarans Over 50 Feet

All kinds of high-end luxury sailing you could ever imagine can be experienced on Catamarans Over 50 Feet. It just depends on the boat at hand. Why spend your holiday cruising or liveaboard on a monohull when comfortable catamarans exist?

A catamaran is quite different from a regular monohull. Catamarans are typically designed with two equal-sized hulls and derive their stability from their wide beam; unlike a one-hulled boat deriving stability from a loaded undersurface.

The average catamaran is 38-47 feet in size. Usually, they are equipped with four large cabins with double or queen-sized beds, each cabin having an in-suite head. These vessels, originally designed for fishing, have, over the years, evolved and have become very popular in recent years. Lately, many boatbuilders are focusing more and more on building large catamarans over 50 feet as more and more people are starting to liveaboard and put more emphasis on comfort and luxury than their sailing performance.

In 2011, the biggest catamaran ever was built by Pendennis Shipyard in the UK, at 145 feet in length! It is equipped with a trampoline, a jacuzzi and can accommodate 12 guests in 5 cabins. This boat is designed to accommodate all the luxuries and adornments that can be found on a watercraft.

Here are the best sailing catamarans over 50 feet, in no particular order.

Length: 50 Feet

Price: From $500k to $1.5 Million USD On the Used Market

Back in 2019, the Lagoon 50 was awarded the best multihull of Sail Magazine. A product of the world’s largest boat manufacturer Lagoon, established in 1984, is majorly famous for the design and construction of cruising catamarans, which infuse top-notch designs, upscale comfort, and great sailing performances to one’s boating experience. Every detail is carefully thought out to establish novel and spacious architecture with a homely ambiance.

It’s a perfect balance between the model Lagoon 450 and the lofty 52. The Lagoon 50 has an encompassing view, generous volumes with a self-tacking jib, and a shorter mast for easily simplified maneuvers. It has two cockpits, one large one facing the sea and the other for seating at foredeck or on a deck chair. The hulls being large enough to contain more than 2 cabins, you can have up to six cabins. Italian agency Nauto Design Studio set a standard for their innovative interior designs every time. This vessel boasts of a unique brand signature, providing increased performance and a detailed wood finish to be fitted for the owner. Unconventional lines are linked with luxury, versatility, and a layout of technical options to cater to everyone’s needs.

Lagoon 50 Catamaran

>>Also Read: Jeanneau 64 Review

Length: 52 Feet

Looking for something contemporary and luxurious? Lagoon 52 takes the cake in that way. This boat signified a new stage in the design of cruising catamarans. The Lagoon 52 is a product of the prolonged conversations between Lagoon’s customary VPLP, Nauto design agency, and the Lagoon design department. It comes in two versions: The Lagoon 52 FlyBridge, known as Lagoon 52F, and Lagoon 52 SporTop.

The combination of onboard comfort with its sailing performance is perfect and in sync. The wide side decks allow easy movement onboard. The cockpit and saloon also offer spacious living areas. The vertical bows of the boat have a diamond-shaped appearance with diagonal shaped hull and a lifting deck house.

The boat is easily accessible and safe thanks to the open rear skirts. Most of the features in this luxurious watercraft can be found in the aforementioned Lagoon 50. It has a perfect blend for its easy use, a comfy, elegant interior, amazing space, and lighting. You’re sure to get your money’s worth with the LAGOON 52.

Lagoon 52

Privilege Series 5

Price: Around $1-1.5 Million USD

At 50 feet, this boat is quite marvelous and a privilege to spend your time in as a cruiser or owner. The Privilège Series 5 is the world’s first 50 feet sailing catamaran. This vessel was built by Privilège Marine, a French company based in Les Sables-d’Olonne, France. They are famous for building premium luxury catamarans and designed by French Naval Architect Marc Lombard. The Privilège Series 5 is equipped with three or four double and a full-sized owner’s cabin located in the yacht’s center. It’s a lightweight boat at 48500 pounds and could go up to 52900 depending on the size.

It has great customization options, and it can be designed to suit the boat owner’s taste. The attention to detail on the boat is nothing short of perfection as the interior design, woodwork, safety measurements laid out by the boat’s design, aesthetics, ventilation, etc., was thought out good. The vessel’s finishing is really phenomenal as everything has a high level of craftsmanship.

Privilege Series 5

Leopard 50L

Length: 50 Ft 6 In

Price: Around $1 Million USD

The Leopard 48, which was launched in 2012, was one of the most popular cruising cats ever designed. But the design was beginning to become dated, even as new orders kept coming in. So, Robertson & Caine, who build the Leopard cats, set out to improve on what was already great. The new 50 was their answer and comes with many innovations that will make owners happy. We test sailed the 50L last winter in Florida. The L version has the optional lounge on top of the hardtop over the cockpit. Unlike some cats with flying bridges and lounges up high, the 50L doesn’t feel like a layer wedding cake.

The steering station is a traditional raised helm to starboard, and the lounge is just up a few stairs from there. The helmsman is in contact with those in the main cockpit and those in the lounge. Out sailing, we got the 50L up to 10 knots in a good breeze, so the boat is fast. It is also commodious and will make a very comfortable home for a family or a charter party.

>>Also Read: 10 Best Catamaran Brands

Length: 58 Feet

Price: From $450k To $1.5 Million on the Used Market

Leopard 58 is a superb layout from Leopard, skilfully modeled by award-winning designers Robertson & Caine. This extravagant catamaran is suited to the prolific and innovative catamarans that have made Leopard famous while still giving out fresh features and various design options.

This expansive FlyBridge takes space to a whole new dimension as it is larger than its siblings with their award-winning aspects. A Flybridge is basically a version of catamarans that affords you the luxury of outdoor space, come rain or shine. Leopard 58 is more about space, bragging about 750 square feet in just the saloon alone. It gives you amazing comfort and is naturally luminous. With an open plan layout, the galley available means the meal making and interaction will be easy. Highly recommended for a family outdoor gathering.

Leopard 58 - Best Catamaran Over 50 Feet

Price: Around $1 Million USD New ; Not many options on the used market since its a newer model

Popularly called the Seawind 52 because of its 52 feet size. The Seawind 52′ 1600 is designed by world-renowned architects Reichel Pugh. Like the Lagoon 52, it’s a perfect balance for onboard comfort and performance sailing and sea safety. Perfect for sailors or boat lovers who are looking for a little extra.

This catamaran sets a standard for offshore sailing because of its simple sailing methods, large open cockpit space, and twin protected helms. Equipped with a three or four-cabin design that affords the owner’s cabin expansive living space, great storage, high aspect riders, daggerboards, an elegant fit/finish, and infused carbon-reinforced construction.

Seawind 1600

Price: Around $1 Million USD New

The new Seawind 1600 has been in the works for a while and has finally arrived on the market. The Reichel Pugh design is a departure from the more conservative looks of the other Seawinds and embraces a very Euro-style with plumb bows, hard chines, a swept-back cabin, and a large open cockpit with helm stations on both sides. The boat is a pure performance cruiser that was conceived as a blue water voyaging boat for a family. At 52 feet, it falls within the size range that an experienced couple can handle, so it would make a great platform for a couple to explore the world. The 1600 like all of the Seawinds and Corsairs, are built in Vietnam.

Nautitech 542

Length: 54 Feet

Price: Around $1.2 Million USD New

Nautitech 542 is the typical example of offshore meeting first class. This boat has ideally tweaked fittings for smooth sailing under any circumstances. Furnished with a single wheel on its roof for perfect views of the boat and a comfy 2-person seat. The idea of this boat is mostly based on performance and quality. Asides from the positions of the helm, Nautitech 541 and 542 are very similar. Nautitech 542 is large and luxurious. The sail controls at the helm stations for easy sailing maneuvers and perfect for all weather conditions. The interior was designed by French designer Franck Darnet. Equipped with state of the art furniture and cabin experience, a sleek experience is assured.

Nautitech 542

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats Under 100k

Xquisite X5

Length: 51 Feet

Price: Around $1.5 Million USD

Once you have met your first Xquisite X5, you will never forget its absolute distinctive looks and almost space-traveling styling. The whole look of the boat, with its large reverse curving arches and cat’s eye windows, says right out loud that you need to pay attention. The boat itself is a very modern design with a classic and comfortable interior. It sails better than most of its peers in the 50-foot range and is set up cleverly so one watchstander can hand, reef, and steer all from the protected comfort of the raised steering station. Tomas and Sara, who build the boats in South Africa, are veteran cruisers and owned hull number one of the X5 line before taking over the company. Their attention to detail and the innovations they have incorporated into the boats all stem from their time living aboard and blue water sailing.

Privilege 615

Length: 61 Feet

Price: From $800k to $1.3 Million USD on the Used Market

When it comes to onboard luxury, Marc Lombard, who designed this catamaran, is an expert in that field. This lovely boat is in touch with the latest style, sporting a flybridge complete with two wheels and a broad sunbed suitable for the crew to relax the day away. The 615 is a combination of simplistic and superior design with an outstanding crew, results in the ultimate luxury Caribbean cruising experience. The impeccable elegance of the interior with a lavish owner’s suite and the boat’s perfect wood quality are two great reasons to make you get the boat. The freedom to choose a four or five-double cabin is another, depending on the size of the family.

Followed closely by its outstanding exterior, you’re sure to fall in love with it on sight, from the cockpit to the foredeck. With an impressive platform and lustrous profile, the Privilède 615 contradicts the volume and versatility of its interior. One wonders how they fit into the other, gives it a great ambiance.

Privilege 615 Cat

>>Also Read: Best Catamarans Under 200k

Balance 526

Length: 52ft 6in

Price: From $1.3 to $1.6 Million USD New

Multihull impresario, dealer, and broker Phil Berman (The Multihull Company) has sold more multihulls over the last 30 years than just about anyone. His latest project has been the development of the Balance line of performance cruising cats. The queen of the line is the Balance 526 that was introduced a few years ago and has proven to be a very successful player in the 50-foot plus segment of the cat market. Built in South Africa by noted composite experts, the 526 offers a well-conceived combination of great sailing performance and luxury living in a boat that can be handled by an experienced couple.

The boat has plenty of innovations, among them a helm that can be tilted up so you can steer from the raised helm station or tilted down so you can steer from the protection of the cockpit. Very cool. The design does not take any particular element to the “extreme.” Instead, Berman and his crew have sought to provide a boat that is truly well balanced in all aspects. And, they’ve done it.

>>Also Read: How Long Do Sailboats Last?

Length: 62 Feet

Price: From $700k to $1.7 Million USD on the Used Market

Manufactured in 2014, this luxury catamaran is ideal for those who enjoy watersports and healthy activities. It was designed by world-renowned designer Van Peteghem-Lauriot Prvost (VPLP) and built to top-notch quality with a focus on stability, performance, luxury, and spaciousness. The maximum capacity of this boat is 12 guests in 4-double and 2-twin cabins. The Sunreef 620 is the very first to feature a newly developed rig. From the large cabins, saloon, galley, and sail performance, the 620 is one boat you’d get a memorable experience on. As you can understand, this is a great catamaran over 50 feet to use as a liveaboard.

Sunreef 62 - Luxury Catamaran

Outremer 5X

Length: 69 Feet

Price: From $1.3 to $1.8 Million USD on the Used Market

The Outremer 5X is unlike any other in the yacht market as it is fast, sturdy, but luxurious all at the same time. Also, it possesses finely finished cabinetwork, spacious accommodations, and an excellent payload carrying ability. Modeled great agility to make even a single person handle any maneuver, its retractable high aspect ratio daggerboards assure a shallower drift giving access to the most remote of harbors.

When it comes to the interior, every Outremer model is trying to outdo the last in elegance, neatness, and modernity. She offers an unrestricted view and functional comfort. The port hull suite includes a king-sized bed, superb sea view portlight, an office, and a separate private entrance from the rear. It’s a semi-custom interior designed by VPLP in conjunction with Patrick le Quement. It won the ‘European Yacht of the Year’ and Cruising World’s ‘Boat of the Year’ in 2013 and 2014. This catamaran is as affordable as a luxury catamaran over 50 feet can get. Beautiful isn’t she?

Length: 51 Feet

Price: From $450k to $550k On the Used Market

Aimed at Blue-water sailors looking to sail fast and far, Switch 51 has proved itself and regarded in this day as a remarkable ocean cruising catamaran. This classic high-performance voyage was designed by VPLP and is said to combine a level of comfort, performance, and safety. It was built by Sud Composites in France with high tech materials. Sud initially built about 18 of these classic catamarans from 2001 to 2007.

Switch 51 hulls are built with vinyl ester sandwiched with a Klegecelle PVC foam core, thereby creating a hull light enough to be real quick and heavy enough to handle the ocean waves and swells. The saloon and galley are huge, with the cockpit spacious. The layout and accommodation are perfect for a small family with classic amenities aimed at making your stay on board a memorable one. This also a pretty affordable option in this category with prices on the used market as low as 450k.

Switch 51 Catamaran

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats to Live On

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a large catamaran to either spend your summer vacation with your family or to liveaboard, this list of the best catamarans over 50 feet will point you in the right direction. Obviously, there are many options on the used market, but you should pick the one that you like best and fits your budget.

While the prices vary with their manufactured year, options, location, etc., buying any of the above-mentioned catamarans will certainly offer you state of the art onboard luxury and comfort. Why not try one of them out on your next boat cruise to see for yourself before you buy?

Peter

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.

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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.)

award winning power catamaran

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.)

aquila 54 power catamaran

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?

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Catana 53: Best Cruising Multihull Over 50 Feet

  • By Herb McCormick
  • Updated: December 11, 2018

best catamaran under 50 feet

In the quest to determine the Best Cruising Multihull Over 50 Feet, it soon became apparent that the contenders were nicely split between two sets of quite similar vessels. On one hand, you had two evenly matched 50-footers: the Lagoon 50 and the Leopard 50. On the other was a pair of 50-foot-plus vessels, each of which crested the million-dollar price tag: the Catana 53 and the fleet’s lone trimaran, the Neel 51.

The two “Ls” are produced by a couple of the world’s biggest catamaran builders, France’s Lagoon and South Africa’s Robertson and Caine. Both produce hundreds of cats each year, many of them bound for the world’s largest charter fleets (the Leopard is also available in a dedicated charter version that’s marketed as the Moorings 5000, while Lagoon says a solid 40 percent of its new 50’s production run will be charter boats). Finding much to like about all four boats, and recognizing they were all conceived with different purposes in mind, the judging team decided to consider the Lagoon 50 and the Leopard 50 in a separate category: Best Charter Boat .

That left the big cat and the big tri, dedicated long-range cruisers that Tim Murphy said squared up against each other very well. “I think the Neel and the Catana are very fair competitors against each other,” he said. “They’re not billed as 20-plus-knot thoroughbred racing multihulls, but they’re very quick. They’re promising 10 or 12 knots, but day after day. I think they’ll both achieve that. They both do a lot of really good things where their sail plans can be set up for knocking out those ocean miles. They’re really miles-per-day boats, where you’re going to see those 240-mile daily runs I think pretty regularly.”

So there we have the ­similarities, and they are clearly impressive ones. What about the differences?

Neel 51

Well, perhaps obviously, trimarans and catamarans are inherently different, a point Alvah Simon made when discussing the Neel 51. “The builder had charts showing righting moments, stability curves and polar diagrams, and I like that because you can believe science, you can believe data,” he said. But Simon also remarked that above and beyond the impressive figures, there’s a tactile difference between a cat and a tri, one you can feel: “This is a good boat. It’s a good ­concept, and it makes for light, fast multihull sailing, with easier motion, easier speed and easier sailing too.”

Leopard 50

There was a lot to like about the Catana 53 as well, and Murphy sang its praises. “Catanas are built to be cruising boats for liveaboard sailors who want to sail fast and have fun,” he said. “The construction of the boats isn’t at the leading edge of technology, but they use technology well. It’s Divinycell core, vinylester and E-glass through most of the boat, but then they use carbon at structural points along the way. They’ve got good placements of crash bulkheads. I think it’s a nice use of technology without being extreme.

Lagoon 50

“We had a whole lot of fun sailing this boat,” he ­continued. “We saw 10 knots with the screacher up, and it was pretty sweet. Visibility from the helm, a topic we’ve been ­visiting with all the multihulls, was excellent. There were some nice things about the way the ­mainsail was set up, with double triangulated blocks and tackles on soft shackles that can be moved outboard so you basically end up with a really beautiful vang built right into it. I can just imagine doing lots of ocean miles that would be really lovely.”

In the end, it was little things that tilted the scales. For instance, said Ed Sherman, the Catana was “very quiet with the engines running. With 3,000 rpm we were under 70 db in the main saloon.” For the Catana 53, that relative silence was golden, and a reason it’s 2019’s Best Cruising Multihull Over 50 Feet.

See All Winners: 2019 Boats of the Year

Other Winners:

  • Domestic Boat of the Year
  • Import Boat of the Year
  • Best Midsize Cruiser Under 38 Feet
  • Best Midsize Cruiser Over 38 Feet
  • Best Full-Size Cruiser Under 48 Feet
  • Best Full-Size Cruiser
  • Best Cruising Catamaran Under 50 Feet
  • Best Charter Boat
  • More: Boat of the Year , boat of the year 2019 , catana , Sailboats
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  1. Best Catamarans Under 50 Feet (With Pictures and Prices)

    best catamaran under 50 feet

  2. 10 Best Catamarans Under 50 Feet

    best catamaran under 50 feet

  3. 10 Best Catamarans Under 50 Feet

    best catamaran under 50 feet

  4. 10 Best Catamarans Under 50 Feet

    best catamaran under 50 feet

  5. 10 Best Catamarans Under 50 Feet

    best catamaran under 50 feet

  6. Fast Bluewater Cruisers: the best new performance bluewater catamarans

    best catamaran under 50 feet

VIDEO

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  3. Luxury catamaran

  4. Set Sail In Less Than 10 Days Episode 1

  5. The UK's Fastest Cruiser Catamaran

  6. Purpose: Fountaine Pajot Saba 50 Catamaran Charter

COMMENTS

  1. 10 Best Catamarans Under 50 Feet

    Size Measurements. Length Overall: 50 feet and 6 inches. Waterline Length: 48 feet and 11 inches. Beam Measurement: 26 feet and 5inches. Draft: 5 feet and 3 inches. Height of Mast: 77 feet and 2 inches. Bridgedeck Clearance: 3 feet and 3 inches. Displacement of the Leopard 50: is 45415lbs. Its Load Carrying Capacity Limit: is 11905 lbs.

  2. Best Catamarans Under 50 Feet (With Pictures and Prices)

    The best catamarans under 50 ft (15.24 m) include the Leopard 50, Lagoon 42, Bavaria Nautitech 46, Fountaine Pajot 45, Beneteau Excess 15, and more. The Leopard 50 is one of the most expensive options on the used market, while you're likely to land a bargain on the Beneteau Excess 15. The rest of this article will take a closer look at the ...

  3. 2022 Boat of the Year: Best Cruising Catamaran (Under 50')

    The larger sibling of the two Bali cats entered for BOTY 2022—all the Bali offerings feature an innovative "garage door" separating the saloon and cockpit, which when raised creates a seamless indoor/outdoor living space that has proven to be highly popular—was the 46-plus-foot 4.6. It's yet another one of this year's catamarans ...

  4. 2024 Boat of the Year: Best Cruising Catamaran Under 50 Feet

    2024 Boat of the Year: Best Cruising Catamaran Under 50 Feet. Perhaps the most competitive category in this year's contest was this class of four cruising cats. Each nominee was decidedly different from the others. The state-of-the-art technologies that go into each Vision 444 run a lot deeper than their stately, head-turning, modern styling.

  5. 15 Best Catamarans in 2024

    The BALI Catspace is the most successful catamaran in her class with the Catspace being the smallest of the BALI range, combining all the latest innovations in cruising. It was nominated for the Cruising World's best boat of the year: Catamaran under 50 ft, 2022.

  6. 13 Best Catamarans for Cruising (Buyer's Guide With Prices)

    The catamarans in the range have been applauded for their sailing prowess and their space. The Excess 12 was the first of the range and has been named the best cruising multihull under 40 feet by Sail Magazine. Features. Designed by VPLP Design, the Excess 12 is considered a 'sporty' catamaran. It is 38 feet and 6 inches (11.74 meters).

  7. 10 Affordable Cruising Catamarans

    Here, then, are 10 cool cats to ­consider in the ­$300,000-or-less range: Advertisement. 1. Fountaine Pajot Orana 44 (above) Fountaine Pajot had the misfortune of tooling up this boat just before the global financial crisis, so not that many of them were built between 2007 and 2012.

  8. Sailing the Seawind 1260

    Cruising World Magazine named the Seawind 1260 as the Best Sailing Catamaran Under 50 feet in 2018. We explore why by taking you on a test sail onboard the S...

  9. The best catamarans under 40/50 Feet

    Our third choice as one of the best catamarans under 50 feet is the Elba 45 Fountaine Pajot, also known as simply Elba 45. It is 13.45 meters long with a beam of 7.55 meters. In addition, its unladen weight is 13.6 t, its draft is 1.20 meters, a mainsail area of 74 m², a genoa area of 45 m², and costs about 419,000 euros before tax.

  10. Seawind 1260

    BEST CATAMARAN UNDER 50 FEET 2019 CRUISING WORLD BOAT OF THE YEAR. The 41ft Seawind 1260 catamaran is a product of the best ideas, engineering and craftsmanship accumulated by the Seawind Catamarans team of expert boat builders and designers. With over 30 years' experience in building high quality offshore cruising catamarans, the 1260 ...

  11. 13 Best Liveaboard Catamarans (For All Budgets)

    Bali 4.3. Catana 42. Lagoon 450F. Helia 44. Leopard 48. Nautitech 46 Fly. Catana 50. Lagoon 52. If you're on a tight budget but still want to enjoy the liveaboard lifestyle, the Leopard 40, Lucia 40, and Lagoon 400 are some of your best options.

  12. 12 Power Catamarans Reviewed

    She has a head-turning, catamaran hull form constructed from aluminum and composite materials. She is 60 feet LOA with a 17-foot beam, and has a relatively shallow 1-foot draft. Powered by quad Yamaha 300 hp outboards, she can reportedly reach 50 knots, and with her Stability Control System (SCS), should give a smooth ride while doing it.

  13. Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats

    The Voyage 44 is an excellent liveaboard catamaran due to its wide beam and extremely spacious living accommodations. Out of all the boats on this list, the Voyage 44 is likely the best value overall as it's relatively affordable. The Voyage 44 may be the perfect long-term liveaboard catamaran under 50 feet in length. Quick Facts:

  14. 12 Best Catamaran Sailboats

    Gunboat 62. gunboat_catamarans. An original performance catamaran cruiser from the iconic Gunboat manufacturer, the Gunboat 62 has truly cemented its place as one of the best catamaran sailboats to ever grace the oceans. Honestly speaking, this cat-inspired a whole range of other incredible boats including HH66 Catamaran and the Balance 526.

  15. 2023 Boat Buyers Guide: Catamarans

    Available from 20 to 48 feet, catamarans typically offer a large fishing platform with generous storage and fishing amenities. They are available in a wide variety of deck layouts, including center-consoles, dual-consoles, and even pilothouse and express variants. Cats offer abundant deck space. Courtesy Invincible.

  16. Seawind 1260: Best Cruising Catamaran Under 50 Feet

    Cruising World Judges named the Seawind 1260 Best Cruising Catamaran Under 50 Feet. With four boats that shared many common characteristics, the Best Cruising Catamaran Under 50 Feet class was one of 2019's most competitive. The quartet of yachts — the Bali 4.1, Fountaine Pajot Astréa 42, Lagoon 40 and Seawind 1260 — all came in at under ...

  17. Leopard 50

    Live out your sailing dreams aboard the Leopard 50. This catamaran is everything you envisioned, plus so much more. With a never-before-seen lounging flybridge of this size, the Leopard 50 incorporates the best attributes from its predecessor and 2012 Boat of the Year, the Leopard 48. Now, with even more living space and options, your journey ahead is boundless.

  18. 10 Best Catamarans Under 40 Feet

    Here Are Some Of The Best Catamarans Under 40 Feet. Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40. Price: From 350k to 450k For Sale On The Used Market ... 10 Best Catamarans Under 50 Feet. Next Post. Best Vacuum Cleaners For Boats. Related Posts Buyer's Guide. The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Fishing Line for Trolling Buyer's Guide.

  19. Best Catamarans Over 50 Feet

    Here are the best sailing catamarans over 50 feet, in no particular order. Lagoon 50. Length: 50 Feet. Price: From $500k to $1.5 Million USD On the Used Market. ... >>Also Read: Best Catamarans Under 200k. Balance 526. Length: 52ft 6in. Price: From $1.3 to $1.6 Million USD New.

  20. Who Makes The Best Power Catamaran?

    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 ...

  21. 2024 Boat of the Year: Best Cruising Catamaran Over 50 Feet

    Walter Cooper. It was perhaps fitting that Fountaine-Pajot and Lagoon Catamarans—two longtime pillars in the production catamaran community—came head-to-head for the title of best cruising cat over 50 feet for 2024. Talk about symmetry: Both boats measure in at about 51 feet. A nearly exact price point of just around $1.6 million.

  22. 2022 Boat of the Year: Best Cruising Catamaran (Over 50')

    2022 Boat of the Year: Best Cruising Catamaran (Over 50') A unique cruising cat with cool features galore and an impressive commitment to customer service, the Xquisite X5 Plus won the judges over and earned a victory. By Cruising World Editors. December 15, 2021. During and in the four days immediately following the US Sailboat show in ...

  23. Catana 53: Best Cruising Multihull Over 50 Feet

    Cruising World Judges named the Catana 53 Best Best Cruising Multihull Over 50 Feet. In the quest to determine the Best Cruising Multihull Over 50 Feet, it soon became apparent that the contenders were nicely split between two sets of quite similar vessels. On one hand, you had two evenly matched 50-footers: the Lagoon 50 and the Leopard 50.