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TECHNICAL FEATURES

Specification at a glance, water capacity.

185 US gal / 700 L

fuel Capacity

243 US gal / 920 L

Displacement

41 888 lbs / 19 000 kg

STANDARD ENGINES

2 x Yanmar 57 | 80 hp

Waterline length

48 ft 11 in / 14.9 m

length overall

50 ft 6 in / 15.40 m (52 ft 9 in / 16.09 m with Lifting Platform)

5 ft 3 in / 1.61 m

26 ft 5 in / 8.04 m

TOTAL SAIL AREA

1652 sqft / 153.5 sqm

Load Carrying Capacity

0141 lbs / 4600 kg

Holding Tank Capacity

45 gal / 170 L

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Leopard 50: a most hospitable boat

April 22, 2024.

Leopard catamarans feature – passagemaker

February 8, 2024, in the same range.

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Best Catamarans Under 50 Feet (With Pictures and Prices)

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Catamarans within the 40-50 ft (12-15 m) range are some of the hottest on the market, this is largely due to their offshore capabilities and amazing comforts. But what are the best catamarans under 50 feet?

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

The rest of this article will take a closer look at the best catamarans under 50 feet. I will explain what you need to know about them, reveal price estimates, and ensure your future cat matches your lifestyle.

Table of Contents

What Is a Catamaran?

A catamaran is a wind-powered sea vessel made of two hulls. The hulls are separated with a deck in the middle which encompasses the saloon. Many sailors use catamarans for leisure because they make excellent vacation homes on the water. 

However, most catamarans are pricey. You can expect to spend between $200,000 and $1M for a vessel in good condition on the used market.

What Are the Best Catamarans Between 40 and 50 Feet?

The best catamarans between 40 and 50 feet include the following:

The Leopard 50 is the replacement for the Leopard 48. It sits at 50 ft (15.24 m) long, powered by two 57 hp Yanmar engines. Used models start at a whopping $800k.

The exterior of the vessel boasts endless high-end features. You’ll get a table, a sunbed, and a roomy lounge on the flybridge area of this boat. However, you can spice things up with shade awning and exterior speakers, though you have to order these separately.

Getting to the flybridge from the side deck is easy, thanks to the carefully designed floating stairs, masterfully fitted in. A signature design move from this brand is that the flybridge now links to the helm station on most of the models. 

Read my article to understand pros and cons of a flybridge!

The Leopard 50 is no different. The spacious lounge also acts as protection for the helm station behind the bulkhead. You’ll also get a clear line of sight and movement to the aft cockpit for a flawless journey. Passengers can move freely across the flybridge without interfering with the boom, which is in stark contrast to other catamarans similar to the Leopard 50.

Overall, the exterior design of the Leopard 50 is fantastic. It’s hard not to look at any further customizations as extravagance. On the inside, it’s no slouch either. You get a utility room, five independent cabins, and 6-12 berths. The vessel also boasts 4-6 showers onboard, and the interior décor features classy materials.

• The 50 feet size ensures it has very wide interior spaces.
•  It’s designed to sail well upwind.
• The mechanical and structural composition makes it one of the most seaworthy boats in this range.
• The boat design can be a bit sleeker, hence the slow sailing.
• The model’s high boom can make it harder to operate the mainsail, this also moves the center of gravity up .
• The Leopard 50 is a slow-moving ship in low winds.

The Lagoon 42 is the scaled-down version of the Lagoon 52 designed by Van Peteghem-Lauriot Prévost (VPLP). It measures 42 ft (12.80 m) and boasts two 42 hp Yanmar engines. Price-wise, expect to splurge between $620,000 and $850,000 on the used market. 

The two main features that distinguish this model from other popular Lagoon models are:

• A relocated mast to ensure proper balancing of the gross weight and reduce pitching. 
• A beautiful silhouette that gives the boat a unique look. The design is part of the exterior styling spearheaded by Patrick Le Quément.

The smaller boom and the self-tacking genoa make the Lagoon 42 a bit more compatible for short-handed sailing. You get lots of room in all the lounges across the boat—from the cockpit down to the saloon. There’s also excellent ventilation on the wide flat decks, thanks to the flush opening hatches. Access to the boom is simple, as the vessel has safe and sturdy stairs that lead to the upper deck and helm station.

With the helm station on top of the coach bulkhead roof, mobility and communication between the cockpit and saloon are a breeze. The interior of the boat has four cabins. The forward has beds that passengers can access from the side, while the aft options have an island bed.

• The deck layout is one of the best you’ll find.
• The single-level design from the saloon to the aft platform is an interesting deviation from the norm.
•  Short-hand sailing is easy due to the self-tacking genoa.
•  It’s one of the pricier options in the market.

The Lagoon 46 is another high-quality catamaran from VPLP with an overall length of 45 ft (13.72 m). It receives its power from two 45/57 cv CR engines, and it’ll set you back around $500,000 for a used model. The overall design is a refreshed approach that guarantees better performance than the preceding models. 

The first noticeable design change is the narrowed down water lines flared out inboard. This combination dramatically improves the volume on the inside of the boat. The results are a bit more pronounced on the cabins in the forward area, making it easier for you to have the same bed size on the abaft and front.

The Lagoon 46 also has a high-tech cradle-like davit system accompanied by a Bimini roof that’s a lot less weighty than what you’ll find on older models. The boat’s flybridge features a large enough area for sunbathing, connected to the two side decks directly. Meanwhile, the reserved storage space on the boat has also had a bump in this model.

With the mast located at the aft position at the top of the boat, it’s no surprise that there’s a self-tacking genoa on it. The interior décor of the ship looks as exquisite as the price range suggests. Most of the finishes are either Alpi or light wood oak, with rounded edges prioritized a great deal.

• The accessible double-side beds in the cabins are an excellent addition.
• The size of the vessel means there’s some limit to where it can safely pass while out on the water.

The Bali 4.1 is one of the lower-priced catamaran models in the used market today. It’s a 40 ft (12.19 m) vessel powered by two 20 hp engines and priced around $400.000 .

This design from Naval architect Xavier Faÿ and Lasta Design Studio improve upon the earlier 4.0 model. In other words, you can expect the best features from the older model and some improvements. 

This is a model known for its seaworthiness, meaning the foredeck space provides some rigidity and offers protection from water spray while out on the sea. Although some would argue that the solid deck forward of the mast could be an offshore issue.

If you want to better understand why solid decking might be an issue, read my article on w hat trampolines are and how they impact safety .

The boat’s saloon is large and protected by a glossy pivot door, and the deck has lots of space to accommodate sunbathers. The fore cockpit is large enough to fit a small crew without the space feeling cramped. Since it sits in an elevated position, the helming station delivers excellent visibility for sailors.

The windows are designed to open with a retracting or gliding mechanism, so you’ll enjoy excellent ventilation in most of the living areas on the boat. Some of the new features added to the Bali 4.1 include new bench seats in the back cockpit, large side lockers, a platform connection for the two hulls, and more. 

Overall, this is an excellent vessel you can count on to deliver a smooth sailing experience.

• The foredeck offers incredible amounts of usable space.
• It delivers less floating and a lot more stability.
• The deck layout and deck camber are great and rid water quickly.
• A solid foredeck makes for a more usable exterior area.
• The Interior layout is excellent!
• Boom might be situated too high for some sailors.
• Quite a slow vessel.
• Some sailors report issues with the “garage door style” saloon door leaking.

Nautitech 46

With the Nautitech 46, you’re sure to get nothing but pleasure, comfort, and elegance. You can expect to spend between $500,000 and $800,000 for this used 46ft (14.02 m) super vessel, with the two Volvo Penta engines combining for 80 hp of sailing power. The vessel architecture and design were handled by Marc Lombard and Roseo Design, respectively.

The catamaran has two models known as the Open and the Fly ( flybridge setup ). The Open variant is the “original” version. While the models are the same under the hood, the major difference lies in the deck variations. The Fly delivers a flybridge space for the passengers and captain, with unforgettable views in all directions.

The Nautitech 46 Open has a 4-cabin version that can carry eight people (great for summer rentals) and a 3-cabin version that’ll appeal to people that want an owner’s suite. The saloon’s design offers passengers picturesque views of the sea from a very comfortable sitting position. 

If you need table space for work or to organize navigation, you can find one carved out in the kitchen.

• The interior design reflects the price and is of very high quality.
• There are lots of clip-on-points and rails to ensure safety and easy movement around the vessel.
• There’s a spacious engine bay that allows easy access to the engines thus reducing maintenance times.
• The slender shape of the boat hulls causes a decrease in the living space.
• There’s reduced visibility on the aft helm (open version).

Fountaine Pajot Elba 45

This 44 ft (13.41 m) vessel powered by two 40 hp engines made its grand introduction at the 2019 Cannes Yachting Festival. Since then, it’s grown in popularity, thanks to the bold and modern design which emphasizes cruising, relaxation, and comfort. You can buy one of these for around $500,000 to $900,000 on the used market.

The vessel is made of energy-emitting lines and inverted bows, which has dramatically improved the interior space. The helm station also features upgrades to improve the handling experience.

Not to worry; the cockpit doesn’t get the backburner in the comfort-centric design department. It’s very spacious, containing lots of storage spaces and direct access to the saloon. 

You can choose to install a Beach Club electric platform if you’d like to host parties from time to time. If you like to bring guests aboard, they’ll enjoy the relaxation spaces on the cockpit, lounge, and foredeck. Some interesting additions to the internal elements of the FP 45 are two refrigerators and a water maker that can produce 15.85 gal (60 L) of drinks per hour.

• The living spaces on the catamaran are some of the best and largest in this range.
• The fly lounge is an interesting design.
• It’s sharp when traveling downwind and offers a good compromise between speed and comfort.
• Performance suffers a lot in upwind sailing, and the fuel consumption increases significantly.

Designed by Christophe Barreau, the Catana 47 is another premium catamaran on the market today. It’s a 46 ft (14 m) durable vessel powered by two 40 hp Volvo engines. Going for around $750,000 on the used market, the Catana 47 is a light and strong vessel featuring a heavy infusion of carbon fiber. 

The Catana 47 retains some of the signature design moves the Catana Company is known for, including open helming stations, a performance-centric rig, and tall twin daggerboards. This model of the Catana runs a bit faster than the preceding model. That’s likely because Catana dropped its weight by around 1,500 lbs (680.39 kg). 

The vessel doesn’t skimp on space either. Both the crew and passengers on board will always have enough space to move around without bumping into someone else.

•  The room space is excellent.
•  Its speed is up there with some of the best in this class of catamarans.
• High bridge deck clearance
• You may need a watcher during docking due to the blind spot between the helming station and the opposite bow.

Seawind 1370

The Seawind 1370 is like a mash-up of the best features from the Seawind 1600 and 1260 designs with some further unique improvements. The 45 ft (13.72 m) catamaran is an excellent cruise vessel with warm and roomy living spaces. This makes the vessel an excellent option if you have a large family. The ship boasts two 40 hp Yanmar engines, and you can purchase a high-quality used one for around $700,000.

The catamaran can withstand heavy spray while in turbulent waters, thanks to the tough panoramic fashioned glass windows. The saloon opening from the cockpit features a tri-fold door. Once inside the cockpit, you’ll find a large transom lounge and a nice little bar that can also double as your cocktail joint.

The lounge on the saloon has enough space, and you can make more by simply folding down the table to transform it into a bed. You’ll find all the lines and controls in the helm station. The well-shaped hull offers high headroom in the cabins. Overall, the architectural design of this catamaran (made by Francois Perus) is one of the best in its class.

• It’s comfortable enough for small families.
• It’s very sturdy while on the water.
• The volume and space on offer may not be enough for commercial applications

The Beneteau Excess 15 is one of the largest catamarans created by the Beneteau group. It’s a sleek, cruising vessel with two powerful 57 hp engines. The twin helm stations on the boat make it one of the few catamarans that sport this design approach. There’s an 80 hp dual-engine variant of the vessel. With those specs in mind, you can expect to spend $200,000 to $1 million on a Excess 15.

On the inside, the vessel has a roomy saloon, which can double as a mini room diner.  While there, the non-smoked bay windows guarantee a full view of the entire seascape ahead. The cockpit is large enough to hold a table that can seat eight people. Helmsman, in particular, will enjoy the Dyneema steering cables and the aluminum supports.

• It’s a very stable seaworthy vessel.
• The engine is powerful enough for the size.
• It runs at a decent speed for a luxury boat.
• The interior and exterior design screams comfort and prestige.
• Since this is a luxury boat, it’s not the fastest in this class.

There are many excellent catamarans within the 40-50 ft (12-15 m) range. The options we’ve covered here are the best ones I have seen so far. Think about your unique needs before choosing any specific option. After all, some of these are more equipped for cruising while others are more useful as holiday boats with your family.

Don’t forget to consider other factors such as ease of control, harbor space, fuel type, and engine type. If you’re going with a used model, be sure to evaluate it thoroughly before you make a decision. It’s often best to get a professional valuation.

If you want to get my five cents on how to buy a boat i suggest you check theese articles out:

• Buyers Guide
• How to afford buying a catamaran
• Seawind Cats: SEAWIND 1260 WON THE BEST CRUISING CATAMARAN UNDER 50 FEET 2019
• MultiHulls World: 2019 BUYER’S GUIDE: Multihulls from 40 to 50 feet
• The Boat DB: The best catamarans under 40/50 Feet

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

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Power range, introducing the, leopard 50 catamaran, the next generation of leopard catamarans.

Designed as a versatile replacement for the award-winning Leopard 48 (Boat of the Year 2012), the new Leopard 50 is an exciting new cruising sailing catamaran taking the best of Leopard Catamarans’ previous features yet boasting new innovations and design elements both on the exterior and interior.

With naval architecture by Simonis & Voogd Yacht Design, and with exterior and a fresh new look on the interior design by the world-class design team at Robertson and Caine, the Leopard 50 proudly ushers in the next generation of Leopard Catamarans’ style and functionality.

29+ Years of Production Expertise

While the exterior of the yacht has been enhanced, Naval Architect for Simonis Voogd Design, Alexander Simonis, tells us this:

“Most of the work has been done ‘under the bonnet’ so to say by advances made in the construction geometry of the new 50. To create the beautiful open plan layouts and the nearly 360-degree view from the saloon area while at the same time have a strong and stiff yacht which is not too heavy requires advanced engineering solutions.

The new Leopard 50 makes use of carbon-infused ring frames in the most critical areas to achieve this. This type of construction has been pioneered on the larger all carbon racing catamarans and is now successfully being applied in this Leopard cruising catamaran so that we can offer the best possible mix between comfort, space and performance.”

The perfect blend of comfort and style.

“Stepping onboard the L50 will reveal an interior that is contemporary in style, with a focus that blends aesthetic detail with functionality.

Cabins are more open and spacious than ever before thanks to widening bulkhead openings as much as possible. This is achieved by combining exotic materials with new modern construction techniques.

One can appreciate the sense of ease and comfort while moving throughout the boat. This is a product of our team’s passionate approach stemming from initial sketches, to detailed 3D models, and finally life-size replicas of each area where we physically and meticulously tweaked every single feature until we were 100% satisfied that we had the best product available.”

- Michael Robertson, Tampa Design Team

The innovative flybridge on the Leopard 50 includes a lounge area, a sunbed and shade awning. Access to the flybridge is provided by floating stairs leading up from the aft cockpit. While under sail, passengers can move about the flybridge with ample headroom and never worry about interference from the boom.

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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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10 Best Catamarans Under 50 Feet

A catamaran is simply a water vessel or any sea vessel propelled by air and composed of two hulls. These hulls are kept apart with space and the middle, but they are held together by a frame situated above them. But you probably already knew that. You are here probably because you are looking for an ultra-luxurious catamaran that you can use either as a summer vacation home or as a liveaboard. However, be prepared; the best catamarans between 40 and 50 feet featured here are pretty expensive. But you were probably expecting that as well. 

Here Are The Best Catamarans Under 50 Feet

Price: Around $1 Million USD on the Used Market

The Leopard 50 comes as a replacement for the Leopard 48. Let’s assume we dropped from a helicopter onto one of these bad girls floating out on the Maldives, and we get to see the exterior outlook first.

Its outdoor is equipped like never before. With the flybridge space comes a roomy lounge, a table, and a sunbed. As an option, exterior speakers and shade awning can be made available upon order. 

It is easy to get to the flybridge from the side deck using the floating stairs that were masterfully fitted in. Like other Leopard Catamarans, this is no different in that the flybridge has active contact with the helm station. The roomy lounge also serves to protect the helm station at the back of the bulkhead. It also enjoys a clear path of sight and movement into the aft cockpit. Movement of passengers is allowed on the flybridge, without them ever having to worry about meddling with the boom, unlike many other sailboats that are often compared to the Catamaran Leopard 50. 

Although one can decide to customize the exterior design of this beauty, it will prove extravagant as it is already made fabulous to sate a wide range of choices. The hull is now restructured to have a more positive switched-up outlook.

A little is said about the interior modifications. Still, it is enough said to have 4 – 5 independent cabins, a utility room for liveaboard, and an options list that looks like it will not end. The heads are around 4 – 6, and the berths can be from half a dozen to a dozen. There are up to 6 and no less than 4 showers on the Catamaran 50.

Specifications of the Leopard 50

Size Measurements

Length Overall: 50 feet and 6 inches. Waterline Length: 48 feet and 11 inches. Beam Measurement: 26 feet and 5inches. Draft: 5 feet and 3 inches. Height of Mast: 77 feet and 2 inches. Bridgedeck Clearance: 3 feet and 3 inches. Displacement of the Leopard 50: is 45415lbs. Its Load Carrying Capacity Limit: is 11905 lbs. Holding Tank Capacity: is 45 gallons. Fuel Tank Capacity: 243 gallons

Mechanical Specs

Engine: Yanmar engines Rated a 2 × 57hp power this bad girl, and it runs on diesel. It could also be upgraded to 2 × 80hp Yanmar engines, which will see you easily pushing 9 knots on the water at about 2,500rpm. You can also choose to kill one of the engines and go at a comfortable 6 knots (not in a hurry but not lazy either) for fuel consumption to decrease.

Propeller Dimensions: 3 blades: 18 inches × 14 inches.

Number of Engine Cylinders: 4

Leopard 50 Pros

• It has a huge living space, a bungalow at sea.
• Incredibly seaworthy
• It can sail well upwind.

Leopard 50 Cons

• They are not sleek therefore indubitably slow sailing
• With a lighter wind, the speed drop is significant.
• A high boom can make finding your way to the mainsail a bit dicey in a seaway.

Price: Around $620,000 – $850,000 On The Used Market

The Lagoon has its Architecture designed by the dedicated Van Peteghem-Lauriot Prévost. It seems very similar to the Lagoon 52, but the two main features that can distinguish it from the other contemporary Lagoons are the

Relocated Mast, which was moved for the purpose of balancing the gross weight and minimizing chances of pitching.

A beautiful silhouette that gives it an exquisite look thanks to the exterior styling of Patrick Le Quément. These designers saw to the Lagoon 42’s compatibility with short-handed sailing and couples because of its smaller boom and self-tacking boom. 

There are very room lounges everywhere, from the cockpit to the saloon. The wide flat decks have flushing opening hatches that serve as great ventilators. It also has a very easy access to the boom and with very sturdy and safe stairs that lead both to the upper deck and helm station.

The helm station atop the roof of the coach bulkhead makes for a direct communication and mobility between the cockpit and saloon. The interior finishing is by Nauta Design and consists of up to 4 cabins, 3 at least. Each aft cabin is furnished with an island bed, while the forward cabins have beds that are accessed primarily from the side.

Lagoon 42 Specs

Length Over All: 42 feet Beam: 25 feet 3 inches Draft: 4 feet 1 inch Mast clearance: 67 feet 9 inches

Mechanical Specifications are:

Engine (standard): The Lagoon 42 is driven by 2 x 45 HP YANMAR 4JH45s. Its Fuel capacity: 79 gallons (+79 gallons in option) of premium diesel.

Other Specifics include:

Light displacement: 26,460 pounds Sail area: 968 feet² Self-tacking genoa: 395.5 feet².

Lagoon 42 Pros

• The deck layout is truly genius.
• A self-tacking Genoa which helps short-hand sailing
• It sports only one single level from the aft platform to the saloon: a structural “revolution”.

Lagoon 42 Cons

• It may not be readily affordable.

Price: Around 500k On The Used Market.

The Lagoon 46 has an increased volume and a relatively better performance than the 450. Looking at the hull alone tells the story of how VPLP saw that this dream could be achieved. The waterlines are narrowed down and flared out inboard, and this notably increases the volume of the inside, especially the cabins in the forward area. This enables for the same size of beds to exist front and abaft.

Also added to the new 46 is a state-of-the-art cradle-like davit system and a relatively less weighty Bimini roof. The flybridge has also an area large enough for couples sunbathing which has direct access to the two side decks. There is also increase in the reserved storage space.

The mast is now situated at the aft position of the top of the boat, a self-tacking genoa becomes a necessity, and thus this is made a basic feature. Nauta Design sees to it that the innards of the Catamaran Lagoon 46 does not look anything short of blessed, with most of the finishes either light wood oaks or Alpi and many rounded edges.

Lagoon 46 Specs

Size Measurements:

Length Overall: 45 feet 11 inches Beam: 25 feet 10 inches Draught: 4 feet 3 inches Displacement: 33,603 pounds Sail area: 1,323 square feet. Self-tacking genoa: 500 square feet. Square top mainsail (optional.): 866 square feet.

Mechanical Specifications include:

Engine (standard): 2 x 45 cv CR to 2 x 57 cv CR. Fuel Limit: 79 US Gallon Fresh Water Capacity: 79 US Gallon

Berths : are up to six-twelve.

Lagoon 46 Pros

• The innovation in the double-side accessible beds in a cabins is surely a huge bonus.
• For more comfortable maneuvering, this two engined catamaran is worth having.

Lagoon 46 Cons

• It goes without saying that there are some places your Catamaran might not safely pass in the waters because of its size.

Price: Around 400k On The Used Market

We are at the Bali 4.1 as we arrive at the saloon, which couldn’t be larger and gated by a glossed-over pivot door. These and some others are the modifications that made the Bali 4.0 a huge success. They continue to create a sensation in the Catamaran world with the Bali 4.1. As it is a boat known for its seaworthiness, its component foredeck space provides rigidity and serves to protect from spray. It sports a very large space that can accommodate people for sunbathing. Its fore cockpit is large enough to fit in a small crew comfortably without their bumping each other’s heads. Reviewers have described the flying bridge as a glad-handering platform, while the helming station is somewhat elevated.

For the sake of unhindered natural ventilation, its windows open either as the gliding or retracting kind. In other news, new features have been added to the Bali 4.1, like the large side lockers, the new bench seats in the back cockpit, and a platform that connects the two hulls, which is situated in the aft position. The design mastermind of the Bali 4.1 is the LASTA Design Studio, and the Naval architect is Xavier Faÿ.

Bali 4.1 Specs

Length Overall: 39 feet 8 inches Beam: 22 feet 1 inch Waterline length: 38 feet 1 inch Draft: 3 feet 7 inches Maximum upwind sail area: 1135 square feet Mainsail: 516 square feet Jib: 355 square feet

Mechanical Specifications include:-

Fuel Capacity Limit: 105 gallons Engines: 2 X 20 HP and can be upgraded to the 2 X 40 HP for making those extra knots count while at sea.

Displacement: 9.9 US ton Maximum displacement: 13.0 US ton Freshwater Capacity: 211 gallons

Bali 4.1 Pros

• It promises more stability and less floating.
• There’s obviously more space on the Bali than on many monohulls.

Bali 4.1 Cons

• It is very expensive to charter a Bali 4.1, sometimes 200% more than yachts of the same length.
• It is both expensive and hard to find a place in marinas.

Bavaria Nautitech 46

Price: Between $500k and 800k USD On The Used Market

The Bavaria Nautitech 46 promises nothing less than elegance, comfort, and pleasure. One of the worthy of note things about this Catamaran is that it comes in two models: The Fly and the Open. They’re basically the same thing but for cabin variations. The Bavaria Nautitech 46 Fly is the flybridge variant of The Bavaria Nautitech 46. The flybridge provides a roomy space for the captain and passengers and an excellent view of all directions. The Bavaria Nautitech 46 architecture was handled by Marc Lombard, and Roseo Design saw to its finish.

You can opt for this 46 Open as a 3-cabin version if you’d prefer an owner’s suite or as a 4-cabin version that accommodates 8 people, especially if you intend to rent.

There is an area in the kitchen that was specially carved out as a chart table space where you can comfortably organize your navigation without losing coordination. A very spacious, well-designed saloon that provides passengers with an all-round view of the delectable sea while reclining on the comfiest seating, possibly sharing the experience with a loved one.

Bavaria Nautitech 46 Specifications

Length Overall: 45 feet 3 inches Length, Waterline: 45 feet Beam overall: 24 feet 9 inches Draft: 4 feet 9 inches Full mainsail: 818 square feet Self-tacking jib: 409 square feet Mast Altitude Above Water Line: 75 feet 2 inches Unloaded weight (approximately is): 23,814 lbs

Mechanical Specifics Include:

Engine runs on diesel, and it is also sail-driven. Engine power: 2 x 40 Hp Volvo Penta to run the boat at 8.1 knots to 9 knots at full throttle. Fuel tank: 2 x 79 gal Water tank: 2 x 79 gal

Bavaria Nautitech 46 Pros

• The number of rails and clip-on points assures safety and allows for easy movement around the cat 
• Engine bays are spacious enough to allow direct access to the engines
• Quality interior design

Bavaria Nautitech 46 Cons

• The aft helm have reduced visibility, especially towards the opposite bow.
• Due to the slender shape of the hills, there seems to be a decrease in the living space below.

Fountaine Pajot 45

Price: Between $500k and 900k USD On The Used Market

Fountaine Pajot 45 was debuted at the 2019 Cannes Yachting Festival and popularly known as the Elba 45; its bold and modern style was indeed made for comfort, relaxation, and… you guessed right, cruising. Forged with inverted bows and energy emitting lines, which makes for large interior spaces. The helm station was also remodeled to increase the handling experience. Indeed, the Fountaine Pajot 45 was primarily crafted for comfort. The fact that this point is being reiterated says a lot.

The cockpit is the size of very spacious, runs into the saloon in a direct access, and provides lots of storage spaces. Also available as a variation is the Beach Club electric platform for night parties. Standard relaxation spaces are on the foredeck, lounge, and the cockpit. There is something striking about the FP 45 that’s rare; the two refrigerators of 50.1 gallons & 34.3/23.7 gallons capacities, also there is a watermaker that produces drinking water 15.85gal/hour for blue-water cruisers.

Fountaine Pajot 45 Specifications

Length Overall: 44.2 feet Beam: 24.77 feet Draft: 4.3 feet Main Sail Area: 796 square feet Genoa Area: 484 square feet Displacement: 30200 lbs

Mechanical Specifics include:

Engine: 2 × 40 Hp or an optional 2 × 50 Up available for upgrade. Diesel capacity: 124 gallons Freshwater capacity: 185 gallons

Fountaine Pajot 45 Pros

• Has one of the best and largest living spaces of catamarans in its class.
• The Fly Lounge is clever. 
• Pretty nippy sharp when with the wind, and it is a good compromise between comfort and speed.

Fountaine Pajot 45 Cons

• The consumption of fuel increases in an upwind sailing.
• Not positively popular for its performance upwind.

Price: Around 600k USD On The Used Market

After we went through the details and characteristics of this Leopard Catamaran, we concluded that is was indeed deserving of winning the Boat of the Year Award in 2017. Also, we wish to affirm of its astute value and penchant for satisfying all sailors of the deep blue.

The overseer of the architecture of this catamaran is the popular Simonis and Voogd Yacht Design, with all exterior and interior finishing expertly handled by one team at Robertson and Caine. This boat was built while putting a lot of cruiser reviews into consideration. The lounge (which wasn’t in the original design but now in the later editions) provides a sunbed for sunbathers, a seating space, and table for either working or eating. It is accessed from the aft cockpit by floating stairs situated by the side while avoiding any direct obstruction to the helming station. It is available on the 3 or 4 cabins variation and can take from 6 – 8 passengers comfortably. 

Leopard 45 Specs

Length Overall: 45 feet Length, WaterLine: 42 feet 11 inches Beam: 24 feet 2 inches Draft: 4 feet 11 inches Mast Height: 70 feet Bridgedeck Clearance: 2 feet 9 inches Genoa Area: 501 square feet Load Carrying Capacity: 10141 lbs Displacement: 32849 lbs Holding Tank Capacity: 45 gallons

Engine: is powered by 2 x Yanmar 45HP which runs on diesel. Propeller Dimensions: 3‐blade 17inches x 14inches Engine No. Cylinders: 4 Fuel: 185 gallons Water Capacity: 206 gallons

Leopard 45 Pros

• The helm position has good visibility and clearly assesses to the cockpit. The only flaw is the absence of some kind of barrier between the helm station and the sidedeck, apart from an armrest. We’d want a more robust and more reliable barrier for safety onboard.
• Due to the abundance of rails and attachment points, movements of persons around the boat are encouraged.

Leopard 45 Cons

• A tough nut to crack is the question concerning the forward-facing cockpit’s drain time in the event of large waves over the bows. (Leopard claim 45 seconds)

Price: Around $750k USD On The Used Market

The Catana 47 comes with the Catana signature tall twin daggerboards, open helming stations, and a performance-oriented rig. The Catana 47 is built light and strong with a lot of carbon fiber input, which is a new innovation from the Catana company as their older models contained less of carbon fiber. We also see that this Catana promises to run faster because it was made lighter than the previous Model by 1,500 lbs. What’s more, is that it can also carry more.

In terms of space, crew members do not have to worry about bothering the passenger guests on board because the deck and cockpit have space enough to perambulate without bumping into another person. The Catana 47 was built by Catana Catamarans and designed by Christophe Barreau.

Catana 47 Specs

Length Overall: 46 feet Length, Waterline: 45 feet 6 inches Beam: 25 feet 1 inches Draft: 3 feet 7 inches Berth: 6 feet 5 inches × 5 feet 6 inches (forward) 6 feet 5 inches × 2 feet 2 inches (aft) Fuel Capacity: 158 gallons Water Capacity: 177 gallons Displacement: 21,800 lbs Sail Area: 1,035 square feet 

Engines: it runs on 2 × 40hp Volvo (saildrive) Electrical: the house is rated at 920AH, and the engine is at 230AH.

Catana 47 Pros

• Has quality headroom and enviable roomy space.
• It is fast enough for a catamaran.

Catana 47 Cons

• There is a blindspot diagonally looking from the helming station to the opposite bow. During docking, a watcher will be needed to direct the skipper.
• The running rig is led to a single winch.

Seawind 1370

Price: Around 700k USD On The Used Market

This is a one of a kind 45-foot long cruise cat. Made from contributions of previous Seawind 1600 and 1260 designs, she features a high-performance hull design. However, the makers still managed to give it the balance of roomy and warm comfort and residing spaces that make it an ideal cruiser for large families. The glass windows are shaped in a panoramic fashion and well toughened up to protect against the spray and afore positioned navigation station.

The opening to the saloon from the cockpit is the tri-fold door. Inside the cockpit, there’s a large transom lounge and a nice little bar that can serves as a small cocktail bar. The large saloon’s lounge has enough space, and more can be created by folding down the table to make a bed. 

The helm station houses all the lines and controls, which are through below the deck. This cat’s architecture was designed by Francois Perus, a French native. While equipped with high headroom in the cabins due to the well-shaped hull, it’s unique also due to its flat decks and galley up.

Seawind 1370 Specs

Length Overall: 45 feet Beam: 24 feet 9 inches Draft: 4 feet 2 inches Headroom: 6 feet 9 inches Job/Genoa: 387 square feet Mainsail: 1,937 square feet Displacement: 24,250 lbs

Engine: is powered by 2 x 40 Hp Yanmar engines which run on diesel fuel. Fuel Capacity: 158.5 gallons Water Capacity: 158.5 gallons

Seawind 1370 Pros

• It is comfortable, especially for a couple or small family.

Seawind 1370 Cons

• The Seawind cuts down of volume & space in the cause of it being a better sailing vessel.

Beneteau Excess 15

Price: From 200k to 1 Million USD On The Used Market

Excess 15 is succinctly put, the largest Catamaran in the new Beneteau Group. What I find most interesting in the boat, apart from its comfortable cruising and sleek make, is the twin helm stations, each situated where the hull aft ends up. The designers of this Beneteau Excess 15 say it is for the purpose of heightening sailing pleasure on skippers and crewmen alike. 

We start this catamaran’s internal look, and we see first of all that the saloon, which can also serves as a mini room diner, possesses a 360° view of the entire land/seascape due to the non-smoked bay windows. Another feature is the beam which at 26 feet 3 inches can afford to house a cockpit that can contain 8 people to sit on its large table.

With titanium-style of aluminum supports and Dyneema control cords (steering cables) to positively effect the level of response and sensitivity of the feel of the helm. A catamaran that was built for cruising with the artistry invented for race boats and guardwired with fluorescent finer.

Beneteau Excess 15 Specs

Size Measurements: 

Length Overall: 48 feet 5 inches Length: 46 feet 11 inches Beam: 26 feet 4 inches Draft: 4 feet 7 inches Jib: 592 square feet Displacement: 42,018 lbs

Engines: are the 2 × 57 Hp or the 2 × 80 Hp variant. Fuel Capacity: 2 × 137 gallons Water Capacity : 2× 67 & 2 × 46 gallons

Beneteau Excess 15 Pros

• It has a of stability
• For what’s worth, she is a seaworthy vessel
• The Beneteau Excess 15 has prestige written all over it.

Beneteau Excess 15 Cons

• The Excess 15 is a luxury boat through and through, and one must be willing to sacrifice speed for it.

What is your favorite Catamaran Under 50 Feet? Let us know in the comments below.

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

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