luxury catamaran cruising yacht

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12 Best Catamaran Sailboats

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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Luxury Catamarans: Complete Guide to Super Cats

The segment of luxury catamarans is the fastest growing part of the nautical market. The cross-section of currently available models over 20 meters in length is just an announcement of what is to come in the future

The Allure of Super Cats: Unveiling the Splendor of Luxury Catamarans

In the last two decades, catamarans have reached unprecedented popularity, both among private owners and rental clients. From the initial models which were cumbersome and slow, a bit like floating station wagons, a whole range of interesting new models has developed, from those powered only by electricity to the fast, carbon-built performance yachts or to those close in size to superyachts .

Luxury Catamarans for Charter

Over The Moon

Sunreef 70 Power

Adriatic Dragon

Today, the segment of luxury catamarans over 20 meters in length is the most vibrant part of the market, and those models best represent the successful evolution of this vessel type and lifestyle. In Croatia, the presence of catamarans is primarily felt in charter fleets, and they represent the most attractive part of the charter market. The largest among them exceed in price and dimensions many luxury yachts available for charter in Croatia .

We have selected some of the largest and most luxurious catamarans on the market today, the popularity of which is evidenced by the fact that at least five new models – their larger or smaller sisters – are getting ready to debut by the end of 2022.

Among the many yards working on a multi-hull is also Sanlorenzo , one of the largest manufacturers of motor yachts in the world. In anticipation of dazzling yacht show debuts, enjoy this retrospective of the most popular luxury catamarans, heralded by Lagoon and Sunreef.

Luxury Power Catamarans

Sunreef 80 / eco yacht / 80 power.

Modern design, luxurious interiors and ambition to guarantee their clients a relaxing cruising experience have helped Sunreef win the hearts of boaters and the industry in a short time. Their Sunreef 80 is a prime example of their approach to sailing. Impressive hulls and a carefully designed superstructure connected to the main deck allowed the designers to create a generous interior. As fast and fun as it is, this model is still best known for her interior: 340 square meters of living space, in five cabins for 11 people.

The bow terrace is spacious, the aft platform turns into a beach club, and the fly bridge is large and so attractive you’ll have trouble getting off of it: as if a fantastic view, an al fresco bar and a galley were not enough, there is an option of installing a jacuzzi and hammock. Sunreef 80 is available with a variety of customization options, but in every version, the master cabin has a private pull-out terrace.

The Eco version has most of the hull covered with solar panels, that generate 32 kW of electricity for the electric engines. The interior can be sustainable in terms of fabrics and materials, which gives this luxury yacht a whole new dimension. Particularly interesting is the Power 80 Eco, which allows speed freaks to quench their thirst in the most environmentally responsible way imaginable. The weight to power ratio of the model is 5.2 kg / kWh, while the solar panels cover 200 square meters of her hull.

On this truly eco-avant-garde luxury catamaran, the air conditioning system is powered by direct current, as is the production and purification of water. The best version of the model has the master cabin in the bow, with an en suite and amazing sea views. The propulsion ranges from between 2 x 575 to 2 x 1200 hp, with a fuel tank of 8000 l. The latest model is Sunreef 70 , whose detailed review is available on our website here .

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Lagoon seventy 7, sixty 5, seventy 8.

With the largest and most luxurious model, Seventy 7, Lagoon have not only jumped to the very top of the market, but also offered the level of comfort we can without hesitation consider to be the culmination of the yachting experience in the SuperCat segment. With her impressive 23 meters of length, she could have been significantly less graceful in her shape, and considering her interior volume, it’s a miracle she’s this elegant and harmonious.

The huge salon has several zones; a corner for the skipper, a lounge, a dining room, all of them gathered around the central mast. The bow sundeck and crew cabins are both more generous than on most other models in the segment, and the master is absolutely sensational, fully independent and equipped with a glass frame that descends via hydraulics rising to become a spectacular private terrace.

With a maximum of 2 x 230 hp and 2800-liter fuel tank, this cat is safe to sail even without the wind, but still has a 205-square meter mainsail. Her two generators combining a total of 46 kW supply electricity to all systems. The fly is accessible via winding stairs, and large enough to install optionals like a jacuzzi or a sunbed. We took Sixty 5 for a two-day trip in the waters around the island of Šolta , and she had us fully convinced of her luxury.

The interiors were slightly more compact, but still sufficient for ocean adventures. Lagoon Seventy 8 Power raises everything on a new level, and guarantees elegant performance and up to 19 knots of speed (with 2 x 580-hp engines) and range up to roughly 4000 nm. Available with a five-cabin layout, this cat has large beds, plenty of storage space and en-suites in all versions.

The interior is huge and airy, the view stretches across 360 degrees and this supercat sleeps 16 adventurers ready to take a long cruiser around the world.

Charter the Lagoon Sixty 7 Today

Lagoon Sixty 7

The luxury catamaran Lagoon SIXTY 7 is a brand-new power catamaran ideal for exclusive family or friends group charter, considering her outstanding living spaces that accommodate up to 8 guests easily.

Fountaine Pajot Alegria 67

Fountaine Pajot will soon celebrate half a century of production of top catamarans, and their current largest model is Alegria 67. Modern and rounded bow, voluminous stern and fly, and large glazed surfaces reveal the French have placed special attention to charm, as they usually do. Different from what one might expect, FP 67 is a successful attempt to redefine life on 20-meter long multi-hull boats.

The options are many, but the one we particularly like has a galley in the left hull, and four cabins with en suites. Owners can choose the six-cabin charter version, or the master version, with a large master and two guest cabins, as well as a cabin for a small crew. In the interior, especially in the salon, the designers made an effort to make everything look more luxurious than usual, using variety of high-quality materials and fabrics.

Two large sectionals seat 12, while the galley is next to the bow exit. Fountaine Pajot have build their reputation on top performance, but the flagship of this series boasts attractive interiors to boot

Privilège Signature 650

Privilège catamarans have been present on the market for almost forty years, but it seems that the acquisition by the Hanse Group launched them into the trend-setting group. Their new Privilège Signature 650 aspires to be among the leading luxury catamarans in her segment, which is not an easy task. Slightly curved fly carriers, panoramic windows and portholes are just some of the modern details on this brand new model.

The standard layout includes a large owner’s suite with an en suite, as well as three guest cabins. Our favorite layout places the galley below deck, allowing the cockpit to grow to unbelievable dimensions. By connecting the tables and the large L-shaped sofas that accommodate up to 12 people this space can be converted into a large sunbed.

The aft platform is able to lift a tender or jet-ski up to 600 kg, in addition to allowing swimmers easy and safe access to the water. The fly deck is accessible from the cockpit or via a starboard staircase, and the central U-shaped sofa and the adjacent table offer a great spot to socialize, especially when covered with a bimini. Two rudder seats provide the skipper with excellent visibility, and give everyone aboard a unique view.

Text Filip Bubalo

Photos Sunreef, Lagoon & Privilège

Video Fountaine Pajot

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

• By Herb McCormick
• December 15, 2023

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. Each is produced by one of the pioneering French multihull builders that’s been at the game for decades. In some ways, this matchup was not unlike a heavyweight boxing bout between Ali and Frazier, or a good old-fashioned feud like the Hatfields and McCoys. It was a duel that the judges relished and dreaded because the competition would undoubtedly be close—but there could be only one champ. 

Winner: Fountaine-Pajot Aura 51

During deliberations, judge Mark Pillsbury summarized the overall layout of the Aura 51, a viewpoint shared by his fellow panelists: “A length overall of 51 feet is enough space to give designers options when it comes to how a cruising cat is laid out, and Fountaine-Pajot takes advantage of this by offering a variety of layouts, with up to six cabins in charter mode. The boat we sailed in Annapolis had what they term a ‘double Maestro layout,’ i.e., a master cabin aft in each hull, with guest quarters forward. It would be a boat that two owners might share, sailing separately or together occasionally. I really liked their decision to locate the helm station on the Aura partway between the cockpit and the flybridge, which they called the sky lounge. That way, the skipper stays in contact with guests below and above, and has good visibility astern when docking. I also like the separation between the steering seat and the three winches on the cabin top. Shorthanded, the autopilot can be engaged when the skipper steps forward to trim sails, and with crew, the trimmer has room to work and the skipper room to steer. We had light wind the day we sailed, only about 5 to 8 knots, and the Aura made 4 knots closehauled—a good run for a big, well-stocked cruising cat.

Judge Herb McCormick weighed in: “I really thought that this category was a toss-up. Both boats will be sold to private owners and will also be set up for the charter trade. At the end of the day, what leaned me toward the Aura was that helmsman’s arrangement, centered between the cockpit and the top deck. I loved that big flybridge on the Lagoon, which will be a great space especially on charter, but this is the best ‘cruising’ cat, not best ‘charter’ cat, and that one feature I believe is better-suited to real cruising.”

Runner-up: Lagoon Catamarans 51

The French boatbuilding industry is to be applauded for its forward-thinking approach to sustainable building practices and exploring next-generation powering and propulsion systems. Judge Tim Murphy focused in on Lagoon’s approach: “This is largest Lagoon fully intended for owner-operators. Beginning with 55, the next size up in the range, a professional captain is expected to be involved. Lagoon produces 275 boats per year. From this year’s Boat of the Year fleet, Lagoon is at the forefront of carbon-positive materials: 35 percent biomaterial in the polyester resin (compared with 14 percent last year), with hemp fibers employed instead of glass in some of the smaller molded parts. The production plant is certified ISO 9001, 40001, 50001, which is notable for the commitment to sustainable manufacturing.” 

Unlike McCormick, judge Mark Pillsbury liked the Lagoon’s helm station just fine. He said: “The 51 is a big boat, but the layout of the helm station on the flybridge makes the boat simple to operate with a shorthanded crew. All sail controls are led to three winches on the cabin top, and there is a Harken electric sidewinder winch adjacent to the wheel to control the traveler. And for a large cruising cat, I thought that the 51 sailed well. The steering was very smooth. In 8 to 12 knots of breeze, we saw boatspeeds in the high 6s and 7s depending on our point of sail. The view from the helm was tremendous.”

• More: 2024 Boat of the Year , Fountaine Pajot , Lagoon Catamarans , Print January 2024
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Duolife yacht is one of the most luxurious 19-metre sailing catamarans in its class (62 feet)..

The yacht can accommodate up to 10 guests. A three-person crew ensures your total comfort while cruising for weeks around the most beautiful regions of the Caribbean and Greece. We also offer day cruises for up to 30 people aboard.

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Enjoy luxurious cruises aboard the sailing catamaran Lagoon 620 Essense

The Essense is designed for you to enjoy a leisurely freedom in spacious interiors. For more active guests, we offer a sailing instructor, motorboat, small sailboat, and water sports such as subwinging.

DuoLife catamaran is a Lagoon 620 model, Essense styling

The DuoLife design is enriched with Essense styling, with black window framing, mast, boom and canopy interior. The distinctive grey of the hulls reflects the stylish design of the catamaran, distinguishing it from its less luxurious cousins.

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54 Yacht Power Catamaran

Aquila’s rapid growth and global success have challenged our international design and engineering teams to elevate expectations with a newer, larger, and more elegant cruising model. The Aquila 54 Yacht Power Catamaran embodies the reliable features and construction methods of the hundreds of Aquila yachts and boats cruising the waters of the world. This model also enhances on board luxuries with full-size refrigeration and layouts that include 3, 4, and 5 cabin options as well as skipper's quarters and “galley-down” layouts.  Owners will delight in panoramic views that fill the master cabin with natural light through large hull side windows, adding to the spacious feeling of the full-beam forward master cabin.  Engineered with an open flybridge and solid glass front windscreen, or a completely enclosed and climate-controlled flybridge, the Aquila 54 Yacht Power Catamaran features the versatility to appeal to a global audience of boating enthusiasts.

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Take a walkthrough with us! The Aquila 54 Yacht Power Catamaran embodies the reliable features and construction methods of the hundreds of Aquila yachts and boats cruising the waters of the world. This model also enhances on-board luxuries with full size refrigeration and layouts that include 3, 4, and 5 cabin options as well as skipper's quarters and “galley-down” layouts.

Behind the Design

With added versatility and more space, the Aquila 54 Yacht Power Catamaran embodies the reliable features and construction methods of the hundreds of Aquila yachts and boats cruising the waters of the world. This model also enhances on-board luxuries with full size refrigeration and layouts that include 3, 4, and 5 cabin options as well as skipper's quarters and "galley-down" layouts.

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• March 14, 2024

Designed for the truly discerning sailor, the Air Yacht 80 – a 24m carbon fibre catamaran – marries the science of performance with the art of luxury.

What if you could have it all? The speed of an ocean racing multihull, combined with the comfort and space of a luxury motoryacht, all in a bluewater vessel which can be managed shorthanded. For John Mountain such a yacht didn’t exist… so he decided to create it for himself, and consequently for others to enjoy without needing to go down a full custom route.

Partnering with world leading firms, including Berret-Racoupeau design, North Sails, Rigging Projects and Lorima masts, helped bring Mountain’s ideas to life. Special attention was paid to the latest state-of-the-art technology and inbuilt safety features to facilitate performance sailing with just two people.

Tuned to perfection

With its distinctive wave-piercing bows, the Air Yacht 80 can match the true wind from 8 knots and reach speeds over 25 knots. Weighing in at just 29.5 tonnes puts it in a class of its own for a catamaran of this size. To achieve this, carbon fibre is used for the full build, including hulls, rig and rigging, while titanium deck fittings help minimise weight and maintenance.

Lifting rudders and curved daggerboards give the yacht another edge: upwind performance paired with shoal draught capability (think fast fetching in the shallows of the Bahamas). In terms of power and propulsion, there is a hybrid system of diesel and electric engines, while the 67kW battery bank is topped up by 10kW hydro-regeneration under sail plus a 4kW solar array.

A raft of clever features help make such a large yacht manageable. Hydraulic furlers are built into the longeron, retractable capstans make for easy mooring, while a hand-held remote control allows for easy docking and anchoring from anywhere onboard. Safety features are equally prioritised, and include the renowned UpsideUp anti-capsize system, load cells in the rigging and cutting-edge anchor guardian technology.

Luxury living

The live-aboard experience is uncompromisingly luxurious, from the drop-down cinema screens on the flybridge and in the saloon to the ergonomics of the custom-designed furnishings throughout the yacht’s interior. Finishes are superb, with wengé, walnut and teak wood floors and furniture, as well as plush pile carpets. You’ll find a fabulous entertainment area complete with barbecue, sun loungers and drinks fridge on the covered flybridge, before descending to the main deck with its 80m2 of seamless indoor-outdoor living space.

The cabins (offering space for 8 guests plus crew) include the owner’s stateroom, with its en suite king-size bedroom and separate study/dressing room. This has a Murphy bed on the bulkhead that easily converts it into a fourth suite if needed. The chef-style galley, with its large windows providing clear sightlines of the ocean, is complete with a full suite of integrated Fisher & Paykel and Miele appliances and equipment seamlessly integrated into the design. A separate crew cabin, a 7m forepeak tool/toy room, large sail locker and customised storage areas add behind-the-scenes convenience.

Fully loaded

The Air Yacht 80 is a truly turn-key purchase: everything you need on board is included, from the finest Egyptian cotton bed linen to the Highfield tender, with a dedicated space designed for every last item. This means that all you need to do is stock up on your consumables, and set sail (at speed)!

The remarkable Air Yacht 80 is available via a limited release to a select few customers. Hull number two is currently under discussion. For enquiries and further information, visit airyacht.com .

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Cargo Ships, Catamarans, & More: 10 Unique Alternatives To Regular Cruising

T here are plenty of amazing ways to explore the water bodies of the world. While the majority of travelers go with the more popular cruising options, it is exciting to try something new occasionally. These cool alternatives to cruising are super exciting, and even the most adventurous of travelers will fall in love with one of them. Without further ado, here are some epic cruising alternatives to try on one's next adventure.

Submarine Dives

Navy personnel are not the only people that get to enjoy submarine cruises. Travelers can too, and the experience is memorable. Submarine dives offer amazing opportunities to explore parts of the water that ships and divers cannot go to, which can sometimes be up to a thousand feet below sea level.

This adventure is sure to make one feel like a Navy SEAL embarking on a dangerous mission.

Submarine trips in the US aren't super common. However, they do exist. Travelers will have the ultimate experience if they book the best submarine tours in the US .

Whitewater Rafting

Although it does not come with the luxurious amenities of regular cruises, whitewater rafting adventures generate thrills that cruises do not offer. Rafters get a ton of exercise as their muscles battle rapids, and they get splashed with water - rather than just lazying about on a luxury cruise.

There are many destinations around the world where one can spend an entire vacation whitewater rafting. One such place is Costa Rica, where there are plenty of epic whitewater rafting destinations with different classes of rapids. Other places with the best whitewater rafting in the world include the Colorado River in the United States, the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe, and the Mitta River in Australia.

Whitewater rafting may seem similar to kayaking (albeit much more strenuous and exhilarating), but the latter is much different. Kayaking, unlike whitewater rafting, is generally a calmer and more relaxing way to explore the earth’s waterbodies. Although some brave souls use kayaks over vast water bodies, it is generally safer to kayak in smaller waterbodies where there are fewer waves.

Kayaking is a great alternative to cruise ships because it gets people so close to the water and its surroundings. Plus, kayakers can go to places that ships cannot go to. Canoes are very similar to kayaks, so this also applies to them.

Related: Kayaking For Beginners: What To Know & What To Pack

Catamaran Trips

Catamaran boats are double-hull boats, so they are perfect for those who want more space while on their cruise. On catamarans, there is more living space, which makes cruising on these vessels great for families with kids.

Besides the extra space, Catamaran boats are more balanced on the water; hence cruising on these vessels feels more relaxing, even in unstable waters. Due to the reduced rock and roll effects that the sea waves have on catamarans, those onboard will be less likely to suffer from seasickness, too.

Amazon River Cruises

As the name suggests, these are cruises that take passengers through the mighty Amazon River . These cruises are exciting as they offer opportunities to explore the incredible plant and animal life of the largest rainforest in the world.

The Amazon River cruise is arguably the greatest wildlife expedition in the world because there is no place on earth as biodiverse as the forest it goes through. Those onboard these riverboats will feel like some of the greatest explorers in history while on the trips.

River Cruises

While the Amazon River Cruise focuses on one particular river, it is important to note that there are other rivers around the world where one can enjoy exciting cruises.

Although it may seem familiar, river cruises are quite different from the more popular sea cruises because one will be able to see a lot of greenery, wildlife, and cities on the way instead of just being in a massive ship in the middle of a vast sea.

Sailboat Cruises

As more people turn to environmentally friendly modes of traveling , sailboats have become increasingly popular -and they are also exciting. One does not have to be Greta or an avid environmentalist to enjoy sailing. It’s a peaceful and unique experience to cruise on these vessels, especially those with luxury amenities.

Sailboat cruising brings one closer to the water and makes one feel like humans of old who used these vessels to explore the world.

Cargo Ship Travel

Traveling by cargo ship is one of the most unique adventures in the world . It is an opportunity to truly enjoy the serenity of the sea. While they may not come with loads of amenities like cruise ships, the lack thereof is kind of what makes cargo ships so peaceful. This means that even though there may be no Wi-Fi or nightclubs, one will not have to deal with crowded swimming pools and noisy bars.

It is instead a slow and peaceful ride to the next port with plenty of opportunities to get involved in the everyday running of the ship.

Related: 5 Reasons To Consider Cargo Ship Travel (5 Why Not)

Jet Boat Rides

Jetboats are small and fast, and this makes them thrilling ways to explore the waters of the earth. While their small size enables them to reach places regular ships can’t go, their powerful engines make them move with incredible speed.

The excitement that those few minutes riding on these vehicles can bring is arguably more than what hours of regular ship cruises can offer.

Houseboat Rental

Houseboats are on water what RVs are on land. They are homes that are not permanently positioned in a single location but can move to wherever the owner wants. Instead of housing hundreds and even thousands of people at once, as cruise ships do, these houseboats make the experience more personal by only accommodating a few people.

Whether people are spending the vacation with family, friends, or business partners, a houseboat is the perfect way to do it away from land and cruise ships.

Concert promoter Live Nation is getting into the ultra-luxury cruise business — see what it'll be like on weeklong superyacht sailings starting at $3,000 a person

• Live Nation's Vibee is getting into the ultra-luxury cruise business.
• The music event curator says it'll charter two superyachts for three weeklong Croatia cruises this summer.
• Like other vacation operators, Vibee says it's seen increasing demand for cruise and yacht-based trips.

Forget concerts — Live Nation wants music fans to start going on yacht vacations .

In 2023 and amid a boom in experiential travel , the entertainment company established Vibee, a music-based event curation arm. Less than a year later, Vibee has already executed affairs like a weekend Bahamas getaway headlined by singer Lionel Richie and a three-day Cabo San Lucas, Mexico party featuring DJ Tiësto.

Now, it's moving off-land and to the high seas with its new segment: Vibee Yacht Club.

This summer, Vibee says it'll charter two superyachts for three weeklong Croatia itineraries that are set to be, of course, centered on music.

Vibee is capitalizing on yet another increasingly popular concept: themed cruises.

Themed cruises can vary vastly, from Star Trek-centered sailings to itineraries helmed by famous comedians. And as of late, many of these niche voyages have been selling out faster than ever before.

Themed cruise operator Sixthman's November 2023 hip-hop itinerary sold out in less than five days with no publicly announced lineup.

Similarly, Vibee's first cruise, the 2023 EDSea — a wordplay on the electronic dance music festival Electric Daisy Carnival, or EDC — was fully booked in three days, again with an undisclosed lineup.

Armed with EDSea’s success, Vibee wants to dive deeper into the cruise segment — this time with a luxurious spin.

"We see the desire for cruise and yacht experiences continuing to rise," Harvey Cohen, president of Vibee, told Business Insider, echoing sentiments of the cruise industry's booming demand.

And not just the mass-market players: Over the last year, luxury cruise lines have also seen a rise in interest.

In its fourth-quarter earnings report from February 2024, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings said its two high-end brands, Oceania and Regent Seven Seas, had both seen "strong demand."

The latter had launched its latest $517.9 million luxury ship a few months prior, complete with caviar and a $6 million art collection.

Luxury cruises and superyachts aren’t known to be super-affordable.

Vibee says it's chartering the 141-foot-long Lupus Mare and nearly 161-foot-long Prestige for its three yacht sailings.

Vibee Yacht Club's cheapest option starts at $3,100 per person for a two-person cabin. Comparatively, EDSea's 2024 itinerary starts at $1,405 per person for a double occupancy interior cabin.

Yet, it could be a bargain for some superyacht fans: Weeklong charters for Lupus Mare start at about $71,000 a week, according to YachtCharterFleet.

Everything is better on a yacht. Champagne? Tastes better on a yacht. Cruises in general? Better on a yacht.

Going to an international music festival? Well, Vibee thinks it would be better to stay on a yacht than in a hotel.

On July 13, the first itinerary would start on day two of Ultra Europe, a popular three-day electronic dance music festival in Split, Croatia.

Following the event, the two yachts would sail to three Croatian islands before concluding in Hvar, Croatia. Along the way, the itinerary would include daytime swims, a sunset winery visit, and several parties (day and night).

Unsurprisingly, Vibee expects the itinerary to draw in younger travelers, specifically Gen Zers and millennials.

Lupus Mare is set to be chartered for two more itineraries: “Rock the Med” and “Marafiki on the Adriatic.”

A three-person cabin for both starts at $3,500 per person.

On Rock the Med, the week is set to begin with VIP tickets to a Lenny Kravitz show at the historic Pula Arena.

Afterward, it would sail to Croatian destinations with an itinerary that would include beach excursions and clubs.

Marafiki on the Adriatic isn’t centered on a single music event.

Instead, the roundtrip Split itinerary would feature on-board musical performances, daily yoga, "cultural outings," and, of course, beach clubs.

A bonus trip to Sonus Festival, a five-day rave, is an optional add-on.

Like a typical luxury cruise, travelers would have preorganized water taxis, chefs to prepare daily breakfasts and lunches, and all the yacht amenities.

The 20-cabin, 40-guest Prestige flexes indulgences like an indoor lounge, a hot tub, and a sundeck with plenty of beds.

Meanwhile, the 15-cabin, 34-guest Lupus Mare has comforts like a sauna and gym.

Travelers could wind down in the yacht's movie theater or hot tub. Or, they could take a slide into the water.

It’s no surprise Vibee is going the more sumptuous route with its itinerary-focused yacht concept.

" Revenge travel " might as well be known as "regular travel" at this point: People have continued to spend big on extravagant vacations, especially on luxury small cruise ships and trips planned around experiences and adventures.

Both are niches Vibee is trying to carve out for itself: Looking ahead, the new brand is already planning more music and sea-based vacations, Cohen told Business Insider.

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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