where are leopard catamarans built

A Trusted Source For Boating Information Since 2019

Who makes each brand of catamaran and where they’re built.

• Post Written By: Boater Jer
• Published: May 25, 2022
• Updated: May 25, 2022

Disclaimer: You might notice that we recommend products in some articles. We may earn a commission for referring you if you click the link and buy a product.

We only recommend products we’ve tried/tested/own (that’s why you won’t find thousands of affiliate links on my site). If you have experience with one of the products we’ve mentioned, please share your experiences in the comments at the end.

Advertisement

Boating Guide Presents: Who Makes Each Brand of Catamaran and Where They’re Built. Catamarans are gaining popularity among seasoned sailors. Their speed and reliability made them the top choice for family cruises and long distances voyages. Let’s dig deeper into their fabrication, shall we?

Among the acclaimed Catamaran brands is Lagoon, Privilege, Gemini, Bali, Seawind, Leopard, Gunboat, and Balance. These companies manufacture their watercraft around France, parts of the US, Southeast Asia, and Africa. 

Top Catamarans: Who Makes Each Brand of Catamaran and Where They’re Built

• Lagoon – is a boat building company d in Bordeaux, France.
• Privilege- builds their Privilege Marines boats in their boatyard in Les Sables D’Ollone, France.
• Gemini – is manufactured by Hunter Marine Corporation; building their boats are in Largo, Florida.
• Bali- is made by the CATANA Group; with a shipyard in Canet en Roussillon, France
• Seawind – Corsair Marine manufactures for this brand. They make their boats in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam.
• Leopard – is built by 2 top design teams, Robertson and Caine and Naval Architects Simonis Voogd, and they make their boats in Woodstock, South Africa.
• Gunboat- Owned by Grand Large Yachting, their production is at La Grande Motte, France.
• Balance – Most of their flagship models are in collaboration with Nexus Yacht. Their shipyard is mainly in Cape Town, South Africa.

Read more about what makes each brand unique and its famous flagship models.

Lagoon Catamaran

Lagoon catamaran was born out of a request from a Hollywood film Waterworld to build trimarans. Since then, they have banked on cutting-edge technology to create the best boat. They have also incorporated a sustainable type of boat by adding solar panels and electric engines. ( source ) 

Best Lagoon Catamaran

This boat provides more value for money. Although not as expensive as the other type of Lagoon catamaran, the watercraft can still give great design with functional appliances. ( source )

Lagoon 440 

This boat can maximize volume to provide more space for the family. Like other designs, the interior and design are beautiful and carefully laid out. The downside- it is on the heavy side, and some may not like the pill-box square design. ( source )

Lagoon 450 F

The 45 feet boat marries luxury, style, and comfort. The ample space allows the boat to accommodate 8 to 12 people. The design is functional where you can access the bridge, engine control, and steering station in seconds. ( source )

Privilege Catamaran

The boat company is dedicated to research and technology to create the best boat that allows its owners to sail style and efficiency immediately. The company stands by being authentic, unique, and making an iconic brand. ( source )

Best Privilege Catamaran

Privilege 615.

If you like an elegant wood finish Privilege, 615 is for you. The boat is reliable for offshore sailing with its advanced navigation system. Its well-thought design enables navigation while conversing with friends and family. ( source )

Privilege 435

Tony Smith from the United Kingdom founded the company as he brought his family to sail across the Atlantic. He got the love of catamaran in United Stated, and ever since then, the brand has remained an all-American trusted brand. Their goal is to build a boat not just for the sailors but for their entire family. ( source )

Gemini Catamaran

Tony Smith from the United Kingdom founded the company. He is known for sailing across the Atlantic with his family. He brought the love of catamaran to United Stated, and ever since then, the brand has remained an all-American trusted brand. Their goal is to build a boat not just for the sailors but for their entire family. ( source )

Best Gemini Catamaran

Gemini 105 mc.

This catamaran brings in more value for money. The 35 feet catamaran is best for weekend sailing or long sail life on the seas. The boat’s definition is somewhat like a cabin making its owner feel cozy, safe, and comfortable. ( source )

Gemini Freestyle 399 Power 

The newest model Gemini has to offer. It is a catamaran in steroids. It has a Suzuki motor DF20A that allows it to sail at 22.5 knots. The design is luxurious and functional. The open cockpit allows you to steer the boat while talking to friends. ( source )

Bali Catamaran

Under the CATANA Group, Bali catamaran anchors its brand through years of research and development. Their core is performance, innovation, and comfort. They use the latest technology to find the best material to build cutting-edge sailboats. They also make sure that they produce comfortable and safe boats by prioritizing interior and external fittings. ( source )

Best Bali Catamaran

The open plan allows everyone to have fun and party in style. It is also both a sailing and motor yacht. It has big windows and a place for sunbathing. ( source )

The cockpit has direct access to the saloon, a flagship model that provides space, allowing entertainment while navigating. Just take note of the high helm stand results in the smaller mainsail. ( source )

Seawind Catamaran

An experienced pro sailboat Richard Wards created Seawind. Their design philosophy is for long sails in the sea, even for the not-so-experienced sailors. They also adhere to maximizing space while providing good indoor and outdoor areas. ( source )

Best Seawind Catamaran

Seawind 1260.

Created by its founder Richard Ward, this model is the perfect combination of what a catamaran should be. It is stylish and efficient; it allows its owner to entertain friends and family for a daysail and allows it for an extended sail offshore. ( source )

Seawind 1600

It is not your usual catamaran with its 52 ft length. People seem skeptical about its size and are afraid it may be harder to control. However, the innovative and intelligent design allowed Seawind to create a state-of-the-art boat that could accommodate 14 people yet be functional for any oceanic adventure. ( source )

Leopard Catamaran

It is one of the catamaran brands certified in Europe and America. They take their designs seriously, from the sailing power to its living space. Their materials and techniques are well thought out and backed by science resulting in a spacious, robust, and high-performing boat. ( source )

Best Leopard Catamaran

Designed by Simonis-Voogd, this is one of the top contenders for the best catamaran for 2021 after numerous reviews. The designers made plenty of innovations like new technology to make the boat lightweight and streamlined for long cruises and voyages. ( source )

Robertson and Caine designed this model. This boat design is adjusted to provide the not-so-ordinary four-cabin space. They also increased the cabin top, which gives the boat an angular and sharper look. The open cockpit offers easy access while stirring; however, it may be an issue for kids and dogs. ( source )

Gunboat Catamaran

Owned by Grand Large Yachting, Gunboat catamarans are built for spacious and comfortable living while using the latest race boat technology. The combination of functionality and science makes Gunboat a leader in innovation for catamaran design. ( source )

Best Gunboat Catamaran

It is another contender for the best catamaran for 2021. This boat is suitable for a long voyage out in the sea as it is sturdy yet lightweight. Space also provides sailors to pack more gear and equipment. Like all of the love for speed Gunboat models, this boat can reach up to 20 knots. ( source )

This watercraft is another lightweight-designed boat that promotes safety, simplicity, and accessibility. More like a luxury cruiser, this boat can also be suitable for sailing with family or participating in races. ( source )

Balance Catamaran

This company is led and designed by seasoned sailors in the world. They value design, safety, and comfort over aesthetics. They are also a few brands that offer buyer specifications before building the boat. The result is a bespoke boat that perfectly suits the customer’s wants and needs. ( source )

Best Balance Catamaran

Balance 526.

As mentioned, no two Balance cats are the same. Each boat undergoes customization to align with the owner’s specifications. Owners can add more systems in navigations or allocate living space according to the owner’s priority. However, all Balance 526 is a lightweight material that allows safe short hand blue water sailing. ( source )

While many companies make catamaran boats, always look for those built by credible and respected designers and builders. Each company has its flagship models representing its beliefs and ideas for the perfect catamaran boat. Your job as a sailor is to choose a catamaran that matches your vision for that ideal catamaran.

• Related Articles
• Article Sources
• Crab Island by Pontoon: A Fun Watery Boating Guide Destination in 2024
• Upgrade Your Boating Experience: Adding a Third Pontoon Made Easy!

How Long Does It Take A Canoe To Go… (Canoe Calculator Here)

• In-Depth Review of the Pelican Sentinel 100X Fishing Kayak: Pros, Cons, and Performance
• How To Put A Kayak In The Water – The Ultimate Guide For New Kayakers
• Lagoon Company Website, March 12, 2021, https://www.cata-lagoon.com/ https://theboatdb.com/blog/top-catamaran-brands-of-2019-2020/  
• Daniel Wade, 12 Best Catamaran Sailboats, March 12, 2021, https://www.lifeofsailing.com/post/best-catamaran-sailboats/
• Privilege Company Website, https://www.hanseyachtsag.com/privilege/gb/
• 10 Great Cruising Cats, George Tarjan, https://www.sailmagazine.com/multihulls/10-great-cruising-cats
• Gemini Company Website, https://www.geminicatamarans.com/portal/GEMINI/Default.aspx
• Bali Company Website, https://www.bali-catamarans.com/en/
• What is so Special about BALI Catamaran, Janko, https://www.sailingeurope.com/blog/what-is-so-special-about-bali-catamarans
• Seawind Company Website, https:// w ww.seawindcats.com/
• Boat Review: Seawind1260, Adam Cort, https://www.sailmagazine.com/boats/boat-review-seawind-1260
• Boat Review: Seawind1600, Zuzana Prochazca, https://www.sailmagazine.com/boats/boat-review-seawind-1600
• Leopard Company Website, https://www.leopardcatamarans.com/
• Gunboat Company Website, https://www.gunboat.com/
• Gunboat Catamaran Review, https://theboatdb.com/blog/gunboat-catamaran-reviews-opinions/
• Balance Company website, https://balancecatamarans.com/
• Boat Review: Gunboat 526, Peter Nielsen, https://www.sailmagazine.com/boats/boat-review-balance-526

Share this post with your friends

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Join us in our love for all things water. And Adventure.

Does Marine Grade Plywood Warp and Rot? Is it Waterproof Plywood?

Advertisement Updated April 27, 2021. Working on a boat build is a great and time-consuming endeavor. The last thing a boat builder wants is to use materials that will not be conducive to a wet environment. Moreover, one is likely asking the question, “Does marine grade plywood warp and rot?”. Although marine plywood avoids warping

A Boaters Guide to Suzuki Outboard Engines

Advertisement Till 1994, Suzuki manufactured two-stroke outboard engines. But to grow in the boat market, it began manufacturing four-stroke outboard motors, whose popularity was a big hit. Still, many people wonder if Suzuki makes good outboard motor? People may doubt the quality of Suzuki’s outboard engines. However, with proper maintenance, the motors can last for

Boat Trailer Tire Guide

Advertisement A boat trailer tire is something that is neglected by most everyday people. In other words, a tire is an underrated part. However, the main question arises that is a tire underrated, or is it just a myth? This section deals with the factors and facts that are related to the boat trailer tire.

Specialty Clothing For Different Water Sports

Boating often includes many other water related activities. These activities each come with a specific bunch of protective gear, as well as specialty aquatic clothing that makes your experience far more comfortable. Let’s talk about the different kinds, and their uses.

How Shallow A Flat Bottom Boat Can Go & More About Jon Boats

Advertisement Ranger RB190 Camo, picture courtesy of Ranger. When you’re shopping for a Jon boat, knowing the capabilities is essential to choosing the right watercraft. You know Jon boats have a flat bottom hull, but just how deep does the water need to be for the boat to travel safely? Since a boat is a

Advertisement You asked, and we answered: Here’s a calculator to determine how long your canoe trip will take. The calculator uses the average speed of an average canoe in calm water. Here it is: The Canoe Trip Time Calculator: Canoe Trip Calculator Enter the distance: Kilometers Miles Calculate Advertisement Canoe Articles & Information replica rolex

Boat Information By Type

© 2023 Boating.Guide, A Hyperwave Media Group Ltd. Publication.

Privacy Overview

• Motorcycles
• Car of the Month
• Destinations
• Men’s Fashion
• Watch Collector
• Art & Collectibles
• Vacation Homes
• Celebrity Homes
• New Construction
• Home Design
• Electronics
• Fine Dining
• Baja Bay Club
• Costa Palmas
• Fairmont Doha
• Four Seasons Private Residences Dominican Republic at Tropicalia
• Reynolds Lake Oconee
• Scott Dunn Travel
• Wilson Audio
• 672 Wine Club
• Sports & Leisure
• Health & Wellness
• Best of the Best
• The Ultimate Gift Guide

This New 40-Foot Power Cat Was Built to Tackle Rough Waters

Leopard's new 40 was designed and built in cape town, south africa, known for its big coastal waters., kevin koenig, kevin koenig's most recent stories.

• Open Space, Eco-Friendly Tech: What a Rising Class of Millennial Superyacht Owners Is Looking For
• ‘People Don’t Want to Be Inside’: How the Outdoors Became Yachtmakers’ Most Coveted Design Element
• Azimut’s New 72-Foot Yacht Has One of the Largest Flybridges in Its Class. We Hopped Onboard.
• Share This Article

Capetown, South Africa, is surrounded by some of the world’s most notorious waters. If a boat builder calls this area home—as Leopard Catamarans does—you can rest assured that its hulls are designed to be seaworthy.

Related Stories

This new 131-foot all-aluminum superyacht lets you take a dip at tip and tail.

• Tesla May Need to Worry About Xiaomi’s New 400-Mile EV
• Someone Finally Made a One-Person Scooter That Drives Like a Tank

Trim tabs typically don’t work well on catamarans, so Leopard used a computational fluid dynamics algorithm in a virtual test tank to ensure that this model would run level in big seas, with the twin goals of maximizing guest comfort and solidifying lines of sight. Leopard says the process also increases fuel efficiency. The model comes with multiple Yanmar diesels, including twin 250-horsepower, 320-horsepower, and 370-horsepower versions. With the twin 320 powerplants, top speed is 23 knots while cruise is about 16.

The 40’s main deck is flush, leading from the fairly sizable cockpit into a salon that is filled with windows, providing exceptional views from this glass sanctuary. The windshield flips open for ventilation, and the forward door creates a passage to the boat’s broad foredeck.

The lower deck has three staterooms, each with its own head and shower, with the main suite being on the starboard side, running the full length of the pontoon.

The foredeck makes excellent use of the boat’s generous beam. There’s a sun lounge, of course, for enjoying the area. Perhaps more interesting is the stowage beneath the cushions, where a deep, wide locker is designed to hold toys, extra clothing, dive tanks, or whatever other equipment needs to be stowed. Two other lockers forward of this one let you really load the boat for long-distance cruising. Sturdy, thigh-high guardrails encircling the bow providing an element of safety for with family cruises.

Read More On:

More marine.

This 92-Foot Yacht Has a Deck Big Enough for Your Chopper

Four Seasons Just Unveiled the First Itineraries for Its Luxury Cruise Ship

Lexus Just Unveiled a Speedy New 68-Foot Yacht

Culinary Masters 2024

MAY 17 - 19 Join us for extraordinary meals from the nation’s brightest culinary minds.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Marine

Unica 40 in Photos

8 Fascinating Facts About ‘Wayfinder,’ a 224-Foot Catamaran With a Helipad That Doubles as a Pickleball Court

More from our brands, ciara pumps up proportions in oversize balenciaga blazer with jutted shoulders for voices of beauty summit, washington post story on mulkey unlikely to spark defamation suit, shekhar and kaveri kapur examine fear and the dark side in philosophical cinevesture talk: ‘panic is a huge form of creativity’, christie’s secures sale of $30 m. de la cruz collection, the best exercise mats for working out, according to fitness experts.

• € 0.00 0 items

Leopard Catamarans were born from the charter market: Robertson & Cain was briefed to design and build specially designed yachts for The Moorings: a global charter company.

6 years later, the company branched out into developing catamarans for Private use, and in 2000 the Leopard brand was born.

Lex Raas jumped ship from the Beneteau and became operational director accelerating the growth of the company.

The History of Leopard Catamarans: a Timeline

• 1997 – Leopard 45
• 1998 – Leopard 38
• 2000 – Leopard 47
• 2001 – Leopard 42
• 2003 – Leopard 62
• 2004 – Leopard 40, 43
• 2006 Leopard 46
• 2009 Leopard 38
• 2010 Leopard 39, 44
• 2012 Leopard 48, 58
• 2014 Leopard 40
• 2016 Leopard 45
• 2018 Leopard 50
• 2020 Leopard 42

1997 Leopard 45

The first Leopard Catamaran model was the first 45. Shown here is “Wolf Pack”. The earlier designs have a lower bridgedeck than the later boats. This is a strong, sturdy boat, but it is susceptible to slamming going upwind in waves.

1998 Leopard 38

An example includes “Ant Legs”. The 38 was redesigned by Morelli and Melvin in 2009. The first 38 was the second model out of the south African yard. This blog gives a great summary of the boat: SV Rover .

Leopard 47 2000

Basically a 45 with lengthened sterns. The extra length allows the 47 to soak up more as cruising weight is added. Very seaworthy, strong boat although you will experience more slap with that lower bridgedeck.

2001 Leopard 42 (Moorings 4200)

Designed by South Africans Simonis-Voogd who are the architects behind Kinetic Catamarans . They continued along the same sleeker lines for this tough cruising boat. The mainsheet traveller is overhead on the trademark wing arch at the aft end of the cockpit.

Leopard 62 2003 (Moorings 6200)

The 62 was pitched against the up and coming Sunreefs – large luxury yachts with flybridges which were starting to become popular at the time. This 60 footer has plenty of living space.

Leopard 40 (2004)

Designed by Morrelli and Melvin, the 40 remains one of the most popular leopard Catamarans on the second hand market. The hulls have chines to increase the living space while maintaining a good speed through the water. This catamaran had a hard top bimini as standard.

Leopard 42 2004 (Moorings 4200), Leopard 43

A comfortable and decent passage maker that can be sailed short-handed. The bridgedeck is low, so some reports of slamming going into the weather.

The 43 is an evolution of the Leopard 42, built by Robertson and Caine. If you watch sailing channels on Youtube, you may have come across this yacht on the “ Gone with the Wynns ” channel. They had a 2005 Leopard 43 which they sold in 2022.

The next boat? An HH Catamaran . I guess the sailing channel is going well! Built from 2004 to 2007. 74 Units built.

Leopard 46 2006

Designed by Morrelli and Melvin with the familiar cat like eyes when seen from the side. The hulls are narrow at the waterline- then flare to a chine above the water to maximise living space (an old Catana trick).

Built with vacuum-bagged E-glass over balsa core.

Leopard 38 (2009)

Morrelli and Melvin next turned their design pens to the 38, available in 3 or 4 cabin layout. The designers continued with their mission of increasing the bridgedeck clearance on the 38, reducing the wave slap issues of earlier models. Also known as the Sunsail 384. This isn’t the prettiest design, in my opinion, but is a very capable boat.

Leopard 39 2010

Easily recognisable as a Morrelli and Melvin design, the Leopard 39 was an evolution of the Leopard 38 with a single level bimini over the cockpit, and a hard top over the helm. The 39 was in production until 2014.

Leopard 44 2010 (Sunsail 444)

The overhanging roof over the new forward cockpit is not to everyone’s taste, but it is a popular feature with owners.

Once again designed by Gino Morrelli and Pete Melvin, this boat is famous for introducing the forward cockpit to the cruising catamaran market. Perhaps it was their Gunboat designs that inspired them?

Let’s just say that Leopard haven’t looked back since they introduced this new space forward. It’s very popular with charter customers and private owners alike.

Development on the exterior styling, forward cockpit, and interior, the 45 is more angular than her predecessor and prettier than the 40.

A complete upgrade from the 48, the Leopard 50 manages to look pretty sleek despite that forward cockpit overhang. A seaworthy boat with a huge amount of living space that performs well when the wind is up.

Read our Full Leopard 50 Review

Like the 50, the 42 manages to look sleek, even with her boxy design and the forward cockpit overhang. Designed by Simonis Voogd. Construction is foam-cored vacuum infusion covered with a single nacelle mould. SA/D is 22, D/L is 179.

Read our Leopard 42 Review

if you enjoyed that summary of Leopard, take a look at some of our other catamaran histories:

Balance Catana Dazcat Fountaine Pajot Gunboat HH Kinetic Lagoon Marsaudon Nautitech Outremer Prout Sunreef

Showing all 3 results

Leopard 48 For Sale

• Lagoon Announce New 43 Sailing Catamaran
• La Grande Motte – a Coastal Gem
• Lagoon 60 Launch and Some History
• Marine Electric Engines: How They Work
• Windelo Catamaran Partner with Just Catamarans
• Excess Campus
• Lagoon Update, Oct 2023
• A New Excess Catamaran in 2024!
• New Windelo 50
• Lagoon Reaches the 500 Milestone on the 46

Browse, search and find your perfect catamaran!

Privacy Overview

• Custom Cats
• Performance Cats
• Cruising Cats
• Luxury Cats
• Owner Reviews
• YT Channels

• BOAT OF THE YEAR
• Newsletters
• Sailboat Reviews
• Boating Safety
• Sailing Totem
• Charter Resources
• Destinations
• Galley Recipes
• Living Aboard
• Sails and Rigging
• Maintenance
• Best Marine Electronics & Technology

South African Boat Builders Bringing a Leopard of Different Sorts

• By Mark Pillsbury
• June 6, 2023

A rain-disrupted two-day safari in the usually arid plains and mountains north of Cape Town, cruising across windy Table Bay to view Robben Island from a power cat, and wild World Cup soccer fans filling the streets nightly each provided entertaining sideshows to the main event on a recent trip to South Africa: a media tour of the Robertson and Caine boatbuilding shops, where Leopard catamarans are built. It was an adventure that the builder arranged to coincide with the launch of its newly designed 40-foot power cat, to be marketed as the Leopard 40PC and the Moorings 403PC. 

R&C operates six manufacturing ­facilities in Cape Town, where it builds models that include 42-, 45- and 50-foot sailing catamarans, and 40-, 46- and 53-foot power cats. All models are available to private owners under the Leopard brand, and for charter through Sunsail and The Moorings. The 403PC will be available for on-water vacations this year.

All the R&C facilities that our small troupe of writers visited were bustling, though they were winding down the 2022 production year in anticipation of the plant’s closing to give employees their annual holiday break. The company built 182 boats in 2022 and plans to produce 213 this year, according to Donovan Thomas, R&C’s technical director. 

The three-stateroom 40 PC is being constructed on a new production line, in a building previously used for research and development. Hull No. 1 had just launched, and we saw four more in various stages of build. Construction of the first few boats includes hands-on workforce training; full-on production commenced early this year.

The busiest shop we found was the Bolt facility, where the Leopard 45 sailing cats—the company’s most popular model—are built. There, assembly-line manager Rotenda Randima walked us through the various workstations, from bare hull to finished boat. At each ­station, a swarm of technicians added to the overall sensation that there was, ­indeed, a lot going on. From the plant, she said, a new boat is trucked every four-and-a-half days to the harbor, where it undergoes sea trials before being loaded onto a ship for delivery.

On the 45’s production line, large fans kept the air moving, even on a hot South African morning. Hulls sat in cradles fitted out with wheels that roll along rails in the floor. At each workstation, lists of tasks were posted, along with progress notes and reports on things such as the number of injuries incurred, if any. At the station where the 45’s deck and cabin top are bonded to the hull, workers had gone 204 days without a mishap, I noted as I strolled by.

Throughout its plants, the R&C workforce includes experienced boatbuilders and trainees, the latter easily identifiable, dressed as they are in orange overalls. The company trains 100 to 150 people a year in skills that include carpentry, lamination and mechanical systems, among others. The overall number of employees runs right around 2,000.

R&C is somewhat uncommon in the world of boatbuilding because it has just one customer: Travelopia, the parent company of Leopard Catamarans, The Moorings and Sunsail. 

Franck Bauguil, vice president of yacht ownership and product development, says that besides the Leopard 42 sailing cat, which won CW ’s 2022 Boat of the Year award for Best Cruising Catamaran Under 50 Feet , R&C has introduced three new power cats in the past three years. The company plans to refocus on sail in the coming months, with a couple of new designs in early stages of development. 

• More: catamarans , leopard catamarans , Print April 2023 , Sailboats
• More Sailboats

New to the Fleet: Pegasus Yachts 50

Balance 442 “Lasai” Set to Debut

Sailboat Review: Tartan 455

Meet the Bali 5.8

Cruising the Northwest Passage

A Legendary Sail

10 Best Sailing Movies of All Time

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

Did You Know That We Offer Contract to Closing Services? Click Here to Find Out More.

Need Marine Financing? Apply Here With Our Partner, First Approval Source

• Catamaran Interviews
• Catamaran Reviews
• Buying Advice
• Selling Advice
• Woods Design Advice
• Americat 3014
• Aquila 44 Yacht
• Balance 526
• Bali 40 Catspace
• Beneteau Blue II
• Broadblue 346
• Broadblue 38 Prestige
• Broadblue 385
• Broadblue 435
• Broadblue 46
• Catalac 10M
• Catalac 11M
• Catalac 12M
• Catalac 900
• Catana 42 S
• Chris White 48 Voyager
• Chris White 55
• Corsair F28 R
• De Villiers
• Dolphin 460
• Endeavour 30
• Endeavour 35 Victory
• Endeavour 36
• Endeavour 44
• Endeavour 44 TrawlerCat
• Fortuna 36 Island Spirit
• Fortuna 401 Island Spirit
• FP 32 Maldives
• FP 35 Tobago
• FP 37 Antigua
• FP 38 Athena
• FP 39 Fidji
• FP 40 Lavezzi
• FP 40 Lucia
• FP 40 Summerland MY
• FP 41 Lipari
• FP 42 Astrea
• FP 42 Venezia
• FP 43 Belize
• FP 44 Helia
• FP 44 Orana
• FP 46 Bahia
• FP 46 Casamance
• FP 48 Salina
• FP 56 Marquises
• FP 57 Sanya
• FP 60 Eleuthera
• FP Saona 47
• Gemini 3000
• Gemini 3200
• Gemini 3400
• Grainger 420 Mystery Cove
• Hirondelle 7M
• Lagoon 37 TPI
• Lagoon 42 TPI
• Lagoon 43 PC
• Leopard 39 PowerCat
• Leopard 45 Classic
• Leopard 47 PowerCat
• Leopard 51 PowerCat
• Leopard 53 PowerCat
• Maine Cat 30
• Maine Cat 41
• Matrix 450 Vision
• Matrix 760 Silhouette
• Maverick 400
• Maverick 420
• Maverick 440
• Nautitech 40
• Nautitech 442
• Nautitech 46 Open
• Nautitech 47
• Outremer 40
• Outremer 45
• Outremer 50 Standard
• Outremer 55
• Privilege 37
• Privilege 39
• Privilege 42
• Privilege 43
• Privilege 435
• Privilege 45
• Privilege 465
• Privilege 48 Transcat
• Privilege 482
• Privilege Serie 5
• Prout 31 Quest
• Prout 33 Quest
• Prout 34 Event
• Prout 35 Snowgoose
• Prout 37 Snowgoose
• Prout 37 Snowgoose Elite
• Prout 38 Manta
• Prout 39 Escale
• Royal Cape 45
• Royal Cape 530 Majestic
• Royal Cape Majestic 500
• Sailcraft 30 Iroquois
• Sailcraft 32 Comanche
• Sailcraft 35 Cherokee
• Sailcraft 41 Apache
• Sailcraft 44 Apache
• Wildcat 350
• Seawind 1000
• Seawind 1160
• Seawind 1200
• Seawind 1260
• Seawind 1600
• Solaris 36 Sunrise
• Solaris 36 Sunstar
• St Francis 44
• St Francis 48
• St Francis 50
• Stealth 11.8
• Heavenly Twins 26
• Ocean Twins 38
• Voyage 380 Maxim
• Voyage 400 Norseman
• Voyage 430 Norseman
• Voyage 450 Cabriolet
• Voyage 47 Mayotte
• Wharram 38 Tiki
• AMI 320 Renaissance
• Woods 22 Wizard
• Woods 35 Banshee
• Woods 35 Flica
• Woods 36 Scylla
• Woods 36 Vardo
• Woods 38 Transit
• Woods 40 Meander
• Xquisite X5
• Xquisite X5+

Leopard 44 Catamaran Review

• Post author By BJ Porter
• Post date July 28, 2020
• No Comments on Leopard 44 Catamaran Review

History / Background

South African boat builders Robertson and Caine have built over 2,000 catamarans over the last three decades. The Leopard 44 results from another successful collaboration with American catamaran designers Morrelli & Melvin. The goal was a solid, affordable mid-sized catamaran capable of blue water sailing and good for the charter market. Multiple awards and the boat’s enduring popularity show how well they hit the target.

The Leopard 44 starts with a hull construction of vacuum-bagged balsa cored e-glass with vinylester resin. This makes for a light, strong and blister resistant foundation to bond the fiberglass liner. The interior layout is open, to make a galley and living area combination which keeps the cooks in the mix with everyone. The common area living plan feels open, and social and light, like a casual dining room and open kitchen plan in a house.

They built two versions of the boat—a three cabin, three head Owner’s Version, and a charter version with four cabins and heads, branded as the Sunsail 444.

Talking with the owners of a Leopard 44 on a mooring, I couldn’t miss the attention to quiet and comfort. The whole time we chatted, the generator was charging the batteries. I only knew because they were monitoring the charge progress, I couldn’t hear or feel any vibration or noise from the generator.

First built in the 2010, Leopard produced from 2010 through 2016, with 185 boats built. Ex-charter four cabin models are easier to find on the secondary market.

Forward Cockpit

The forward cockpit on the 44 is the innovation that drew eyes to this boat. The forward cockpit on the boat does so much more than give more place to sit. It puts you in the breeze the way an aft cockpit can’t, but still keeps you out of the sun. Sitting at anchor in the tropics, this would be the best place for sundowners every night. Even the slightest breeze would dissipate the last of the day’s heat as you watch the sun set.

The other important thing the forward cockpit does is open the boat up for through breezes you can never get in monohulls or a cat without a similar cockpit. In the tropics, comfort is all about getting air moving through the boat. With any kind of light breeze opening both fore and aft cockpit doors, the airflow is fantastic. Many cruisers don’t like to use their ovens in tropical conditions, but with this kind of ventilation pizza may be back on the menu.

The construction of that forward door is impressive. The 12mm Perspex has three heavy duty dogs to hold it shut, and up-close it looks more like a great big hatch than a cabin door. Given the risk of taking water over the bows, this safe construction is a big comfort. The cockpit itself has raised edges to keep water out and oversized drains to quickly drain anything that comes in during heavy weather sailing.

Raised Navigation Center

One of the must-have features for the Leopard owner I spoke with was the raised navigation center on the starboard side of the boat. The visibility from up there was near total. At first, it felt a little isolated. But looking around, it’s clear a lot of thought went into setting this workspace up for easy and comfortable handling the boat from one place.

All the sail controls lead back to clutch blocks in the navigation center. One crew member can handle almost all the cat’s functions from a single seat. A hard dodger over the space and removable isinglass panels guaranteed good comfort in almost all conditions.

Standing at the helm on the starboard side, I could see the bow on the port hull, with a good 360-degree view around the boat. My preference would always be to dock on a starboard tie-up with this layout, but if I had to come on for a port tie-up, the visibility is good enough to keep me from touching the dock before I intend to.

The only line handling that requires a little help is furling the headsail, since the furling line needs to be hauled in as you tension the sheets. But with practice, even that could be a one-person job.

Living Space

The living spaces on the Leopard 44 are well thought out for groups of adults or for family cruising. With three distinct areas to “hang out” – the aft covered cockpit, the front cockpit, and the saloon – there are plenty of places to both gather for meals and drinks, or to separate for boat schooling and work. Open the cabin doors and you’ve got an enormous open-air living room, close them and you’ve got separate spaces for different activities. Either of the tables in the saloon or aft cockpit will seat six to eight people.

In the hulls, the owner’s side has good sleeping and storage space, a comfortable standing shower, storage, a desk/workspace, and a day couch. On the boat I toured, the owners didn’t use the couch much; they were thinking of ways to turn the space into storage, with additional padded sleeping space on top if needed.

It’s hard to picture feeling crowded on this boat, even with six adults or a family with several children.

The Leopard 44 is designed to sail, and reports very good numbers on most points of sail. While most cruising cat like this don’t point into the wind like monohulls, they make up for it with better sailing speeds a little more off the wind.

The standard dual twenty-nine horsepower standard engines carry it along on an easy 6-7 knots, the optional thirty-nine horsepower upgrade has no problem cruising at eight knots. The larger engines are a better choice for passage making and blue water cruising, where you may want the extra punch for waves and chop.

This boat is a solid mid-sized cat for family cruising and is easy to sail with a couple.

• Tags Catamaran Reviews

By BJ Porter

Owner of Hallberg Rassy 53; world explorer.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

CatamaranReviews.com

Leopard 40 catamaran.

The recently redesigned Leopard 40 sports an increased interior volume and modern interior layout. A unique saloon to bow access door gives easy access for sunbathing and chilling out on the deck. With a bright and uncluttered design and a helm with excellent visibility, the Leopard 40 provides the safety expected for the bluewater lifestyle in a comfortable package.

Table of Contents

DESIGN – INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

Designed and built by South African firm Robertson & Caine and along with Naval Architects Simonis-Voogd, the Leopard 40 attempts to set a new standard for cruising catamarans. Based on customer and owner feedback, the most recent Leopard 40 has a redesigned configuration. As an evolution of the Leopard 39 design, the increase in hull volume, innovative interior layout, and enlarged windows and doors give the impression of a much larger catamaran.

The aft cabins have been redesigned and now have semi-island berths, improved access steps, recessed LED strip lighting as well as more space overall than the previous version. Within the owner’s suite, the desk and storage units have been repositioned to allow for a more refined and practical layout. 

Short-handed sailing is made easy as all lines run back to the helm, all within reach, and with an electric winch for convenient control. The helm offers superb visibility to all corners of the boat and is easily accessible from the cockpit and deck. The cockpit has a full hardtop cover and a hard Bimini protecting the helm station. One of the biggest drawcards of this model is the forward access door at the front of the saloon, which accesses a semi-covered outdoor lounge area, perfect for relaxing and watching the world go by.

The Leopard 40 is available in two versions, a three cabin and two head version, or a four cabin and two head version. Customizable with your choice of interior and exterior colors, as well as a comprehensive list of optional equipment from reputable brands, the Leopard 40 can be outfitted to suit your intended sailing method and lifestyle.

The well thought out design of the Leopard 40 provides the comfort and safety expected for the Bluewater lifestyle. The deck is clear and uncluttered, hatches are finished flush, and numerous grab handles are well positioned for safe sailing.

The Leopard 40 has a forward deck area accessible from the saloon, but unlike the larger boats by Leopard , this area is not a dedicated cockpit. Although, with the addition of some cushions, the area would make a great space to lounge when the sun is shining from aft and it does provide some shade with the extended brow / louvre. There is good under-deck storage in the foredeck area where the optional generator is stowed. Ample space is available on the deck suitable to store your favorite watersports equipment, such as paddleboards and kayaks.

Handholds are installed along the entire top of the cabin, providing safe access to and from the deck. However, the steps that provide access to the cabin top are challenging, especially if the area is wet. The sail controls are simple, and the helm station is raised to provide an excellent position to sail from and to simply enjoy the views.

The latest model, Leopard 40 has a reinvented saloon and galley with an open-air concept that is a fusion of the indoor and outdoor living spaces. The large forward window and access door, combined with the sliding windows and doors aft provide occupants an almost all-round view from the saloon. While the smoke grey-tinted saloon windows and rectangular side windows, give the catamaran a very modern look.

The internal volume of this catamaran has been maximized by the design that incorporates vertical sides to the saloon. The saloon lounge is L shaped and located against the aft sliding windows, it contributes to the large open space feeling, and the saloon and cockpit areas become one. The generous interior dining area can seat eight comfortably, and the dining table converts into an additional double berth.

The oversized vertical forward window and door to access the bow area increase the natural light in the interior. The galley in the latest model has been relocated, facing forward beside the foredeck door, and is also an L shaped configuration. The modern galley is well finished and supplied complete with large Corian countertops, deep stainless steel sink, front-opening energy-saving fridge/freezer, and a three burner stovetop and oven.

ACCOMMODATIONS

The Leopard 40 is available with either a 3 or 4 cabin layout. The increased volume in the hulls is noticeable in the generous size of the cabins and berths, with both layouts providing excellent comfort in all cabins with ample storage lockers. In addition, the light interior fit out in the owners, and guest cabins add to the open and airy feeling.

The three cabin layout has two guest cabins in the port hull, sharing a good-sized head complete with shower. The owner’s cabin fills the entire starboard hull. The spacious berth is situated aft and comes complete with a vanity table/desk and adequate storage space. It also has a sliding entry door for privacy. A private head and shower are located forward in the hull in the owner’s version. And this private head and shower are replaced by an additional double berth in the four cabin version.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• LOA: 39 ft 4 in / 11.99 m 
• LWL: 38 ft 1 in / 11.62 m 
• Beam: 22 ft 1 in / 6.72 m 
• Draft: 4 ft 5 in / 1.35 m 
• Mast Height: 63 ft 10 in / 19.45 m 
• Bridgedeck Clearance: 2 ft 4 in / 0.7 m 
• Engine: 2x 29 hp 
• Engine No. Cylinders: 3 
• Fuel: 95 gal / 360 L 
• Water: 206 gal / 780 L 
• Mainsail Area (Standard): 445 sqft / 41.4 sqm 
• Mainsail Area (Square Top): 607 sqft / 56.4 sqm 
• Genoa Area: 425 sqft / 39.5 sqm 
• Spinnaker Area: 1292 sqft / 120 sqm 
• Code 0 Area: 580 sqft / 53.9 sqm 
• Total Upwind Area (Standard): 871 sqft / 80.9 sqm 
• Displacement: 23215 lbs / 10530 kg 
• Load Carrying Capacity: 9612 lbs / 4360 kg 
• Holding Tank Capacity: 29 gal / 110 L 
• First Built: 2008 
• Builder: Robertson and Caine
• Designer: Simonis Voogd

PRICE RANGE

The Leopard 40 is available for approx. $500,000. Expect another $100,000 to fully equip it with everything need to be ready to go cruising.

The design of the Leopard 40 is well thought out. The open-air concept combining the interior and exterior areas creates a comfortable and enjoyable living space from the front deck, through the saloon, and extending out to the cockpit. The accommodations are well-sized, light, and well ventilated. The forward-facing galley is modern, well finished, and practical. Overall this catamaran, with its large interior volume and well thought out design, would provide an exceptional level of comfort and safety to those who wish to enjoy the Bluewater cruising lifestyle.

Leopard 40 Specs

Make: leopard, catamaran rating, leopard 40 pictures, new catamaran reviews.

Seawind 1600

Privilege 585

Catamaran Makes

New reviews, most popular.

• ACHIEVEMENTS
• MANUFACTURING

SAILING RANGE

Power range, leopard 40 catamaran, the success of the leopard 53 powercat and leopard 46 powercat has reinforced leopard catamarans’ world leadership in the cruising/blue water/offshore power catamaran market..

The Leopard 40 Powercat completes a modern range, entirely reinvented, and specifically designed to meet the highest requirements of comfort and seaworthiness.

KEY FEATURES

• New Styling
• Interior Upgrade
• Additional Area at Aft End of Saloon
• Larger Cabins
• Separate Engine Rooms

Saloon Features

• Seating and Inside Helm Station (optional)
• Coffee Table or Dining Table Options
• Forward Access to Deck
• New Soft Furnishings for Settees

Galley Features

• Forward Facing L-shaped Galley to Port
• New “Galley Serving Area” to Starboard
• Improved Interior Lighting

Accommodations have been enhanced to make you feel at-home with new soft furnishings, very comfortable beds and great use of space. The Leopard 40 Powercat comes in a three or four-cabin layout. The three-cabin owner’s suite boasts large walk-in closet, desk, and a double vanity.

Forward VIP guest cabins offer spacious, island berths and en-suite heads.

The next generation of

LEOPARD CATAMARANS

Built to provide pure comfort and performance

Engine Specifications

Load specifications.

• 3 Cabin Layout
• Flybridge Layout