catamaran 40

40ft Catamaran Models Comparisons

We compare specifications, dimensions, sail area, and pricing on the most popular 40ft catamarans in 2020.

Since 2016, Fountaine Pajot, Lagoon, Leopard, Bali, and Nautitech all rolled out new 40 ft catamaran models in a similar price range that are innovative, spacious, well-built, and comfortable. The latest model to be added to this 40ft array in 2020 is the Bali Catspace.

Bali has done away with the Bali 4.1 model and has designed the Bali Catspace with much improved and innovative features while Lagoon updated their popular L400 and redesigned it with the mast further back to accommodate a self-tacking jib, open scoops, and updated interior. The FP Lucia 40, released in 2016, has pretty much stayed the same, as has the Leopard 40. They are both very popular and successful cats. While the Nautitech Open 40 is a nice sporty sailing cat, it has not really taken hold in the US market with the aft helm stations.

These 40ft catamaran models are affordable and easily be handled by a coupled. It also has all the amenities suitable for a cruising boat such as an ice maker, washing machine, bigger fridge/freezer capacity, and big living spaces, which is very attractive for live-aboard cruising couples. 

The 40ft catamaran holds its value because it is in high demand on the used boat market. The 40ft catamaran size range just makes sense.

Read our previous 40ft comparison article for older models:  How Do The Most Popular 40-ft Production Catamarans Compare?

New 2020 40Ft Catamaran Comparison

The five main production catamaran contenders in 2020 for liveaboard couples are:

• BALI Catspace
• FP Lucia 40
• Nautitech 40 Open

40ft Catamaran Models Specifications

40ft Catamaran Deck & Flybridge Layout Comparison

40ft Catamaran Deck & Flybridge Layout Comparisons

40ft Catamaran Models Sail Plan Comparisons

40ft Catamaran Cabin Layouts Comparisons

3-cabin layout.

4-Cabin Layout

READER'S QUESTION ANSWERED: Andy asked: "Which Cat is the best value and what do you budget for upgrades that deliver an above average sailing and comfort experience?" 

The pricing for the different brands are generally in the same range since this a competitive space and the manufacturers have to make sure they are not priced out of the market. There are essentially no “bad catamarans”. Most are all built to recognized and enforced codes such as the European CE standard, so it comes down to personal preference. Some boats have Balsa cores and others have closed cell foam cores. Some have large nets, others have small nets and some have no nets.

All the forward deck designs are acceptable and safe, as we have now conclusively seen over the last five years. The current trend is smaller nets and larger foredeck areas for the most part on cruising cats. Performance cats all have nets and longer bows and are a different category to the production cruisers. Lagoon has the biggest living space, Bali has the best live-ability overall and FP and Leopard are very popular for couples with the semi-raised helm position but that too is a personal preference.

In terms of the extras or additional options, I normally recommend the following:

• The largest engine option available – this is important for your exit strategy especially in the US market and of course it is nice to have the extra power since the modern cats have quite a lot of windage.
• The best winch pack available
• All the cleats offered
• Mostly it is smart to take the code zero pack even if you do not order the sail immediately (Difficult and expensive to retro fit)
• Folding props – I really think that if you are going to do any extended cruising the last thing you want is to be dragging fixed props
• Air Conditioning if you want to have it
• Generator unless you are going to go Lithium with all the inverters and electronics to replace the generator.
• Solar – I normally take the factory option and then add aftermarket to increase the array
• If possible cable throttles and not electronic (If you are struck by lightning at least you can still control the engines if they still run)
• Electrically assisted davits at a minimum – your dinghy is your “car” so one needs to have an efficient handling system (we raise our dinghy every night for security)
• Watermaker is fantastic to have. It really makes life so much easier.
• Estelle will definitely opt for the washing machine – we never had one but since she’s had it onboard our Lagoon 450, she will not go without again.

Which Is Your Favorite 40ft Catamaran?

So many cruisers and liveaboard couples choose their dream boats from this new 40ft catamaran market. Which is your favorite catamaran and why? Leave your comment below!

Contact us for more information, price lists, specifications, and available charter management programs.

Estelle Cockcroft

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12 thoughts on “40ft Catamaran Models Comparisons”

Fabulous article and great comparisons, thank you. How do they sail? Is there any real difference?

HI Chrissy thank you! The performance of the boats are all very similar. They are all cruising cats, so not exactly rocket ships but totally adequate for a an average cruising couple. You could get a little more performance out of any of these boats depending on how aggressively you sail the boat and the type of sails you have. We race our boat and almost always end up in the top three boats.

Thank you for your article, I think we will go for the Catspace

Your welcome! I think you will be very happy with this choice. Only recommendation for any of these models, is upgrade the engines to 40hp.

In your opinion, which Cat is the the best value and what would you budget for upgrades that deliver an above average sailing and comfort experience? Obviously upgrades can be all over the map but you mentioned upgrading engine to 40hp – what else do you feel are almost ‘required’ upgrades? Thanks!

The pricing for the different brands are generally in the same range since this a competitive space and the manufacturers have to make sure they are not priced out of the market. There are essentially no bad catamarans, most are all built to recognized and enforced codes such as CE so it comes down to personal preference. Some boats have Balsa cores and other have closed cell foam cores, others have large nets, some have small nets and some have no nets, all designs are acceptable as we have now conclusively seen over the last five years.The trend is to smaller nets and larger foredeck areas for the most part. Performance boats all have nets and longer bows and are a different category to the production cruisers. Lagoon is good bang for your buck, Bali has the best liveability and space overall and FP and Leopard are very popular for couples because of the helm position.

In terms of the extras or additional options I normally recommend the following: The largest engine option available – this is important for your exit strategy especially in the US market and of course it is nice to have the extra power since the modern cats have quite a bot of windage. the best winch pack available All the cleats offered Mostly it is smart to take the code zero pack even if you do not order the sail immediately (Difficult and expensive to retro fit) Folding props – I really think that if you are going to do any extended cruising the last thing you want is to be dragging fixed props Air Conditioning if you want to have it Generator unless you are going to go Lithium with all the inverters and electronics to replace the generator. Solar – I normally take the factory option and then add aftermarket to increase the array If possible cable throttles and not electronic (If you are struck by lightning at least you can still control the engines if they still run) Electrically assisted davits at a minimum – your dinghy is your car so one needs to have an efficient handling system (we raise our dinghy every night for security) Watermaker is fantastic to have. It really makes life so much easier. Estelle will definitely opt for the washing machine – we never had one but since she’s ahd it onboard our Lagoon 450, she will not go without again.

This is a big subject and there are many opinions, I would be happy to discuss further -Stephen

We have a 2020 Leopard 40 Owners version. We love it. Just wish it carried a bit more fuel.

Hi Eugene, yes! The Leopards are very popular and we sell many of them. They are definitely a great bang for your buck. Thank you for your input!

The 40 Open has the longest WL, Largest Sail Area and has the lightest displacement… indicating it ‘should’ sail better than the others. Other than the helm position, what are the other differences (drawbacks?) you have observed or can comment on (if any)? It appears to be trying to straddle the ‘performance / cruiser’ designation… would you say it is successful?

Doug, yes you are correct however it is a displacement hull, just like the other cats in this category and while it may be a little lighter and have a bigger sailplan, it sails marginally faster, so that is not too much of a factor. In general they are nice boats but the living space is small and just like the new Excess range from Lagoon, the biggest drawback of these cats in our market is the helm position. The aft helm station have just never caught on, which is the reason that Catana and Outremer also moved their helm stations to the bulkhead rather than on the sterns.

Any chance on getting a 2024 update of the 40ft-ish Catamaran Models Comparison?

We will look into it for you

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• Engine: 2x250hp
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• Propeller Dimensions: 4-blade 23in x 22in (370 hp option)
• Maximum Speed (in light ship conditions): 23 Knots
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• Engine Max Power: 250 HP
• Max Power RPM: 3800 rpm
• Engine No. Cylinders: 4
• Consumption Curves:  View Leopard 40 Powercat Performance Curves
• Fuel: 370 gal / 1400 L

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• Water: 169 gal / 640 L
• Displacement: 30488 lbs / 13829 kg
• Load Carrying Capacity: 12410 lbs / 5629 kg
• Holding Tank Capacity: 42 gal / 160 L

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Catamaran Isla 40

The first step towards blue-water sailing

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This 12-metre catamaran comprises all the comforts you need to enjoy cruising with family or friends.

The ideal size for a cruising catamaran

You can easily distinguish the Isla 40 from other sailing catamarans

Yacht design is no easy task, but our teams are experts at it. Reversed bows, deck cladding, stylised hull portholes and a sleek silhouette… you almost forget that this multihull is a 40-footer. But it’s enough to give her the air of a tall ship , ready to set sail on new adventures. The entire Fountaine Pajot ethos is concentrated here in a combination of spaces and volumes offering a superb degree of liveability . Her hull and sail plan provide a real thrill , and the ergonomics of her helm are designed with utmost safety in mind.

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There’s nothing like an open-plan space to make you feel at ease. A retractable sliding door creates a seamless transition between the exterior cockpit area and interior saloon, making the galley the centre of onboard life. Simply closing the door transforms the interior into a cosy haven.

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10 Best Catamarans Under 40 Feet

One of the best ways to unwind and relax is cruising on the sea and enjoying nature’s beauty on a boat. And when it comes to your relaxation and enjoyment, why not go for a boat that is guaranteed to deliver you maximum comfort like the catamaran?

For new yacht/boat enthusiasts, the term catamaran might seem foreign to you. A catamaran is a multi-hulled vessel with two hulls that are both of equal size. It is a geometrically balanced vessel, getting its stability from its wide beam, unlike a monohull with a ballasted keel. Now you might seriously be wondering, why take a cat instead of a monohull? Well, there are quite a few reasons but let us focus on the important ones.

Benefits Of A Great Catamaran Under 40 Feet

Sailing comfort.

Something very glaring about sailing a cat is the absence of heeling, which a monohull has. Even when powered, a cat will hardly heel more than 5-10 degrees before its time to reef. This makes it far more relaxing and comfortable under sail.  

Speed 

A bluewater cruising catamaran is faster than a cruising monohull of the same length. They usually reach near racing monohull speeds while still maintaining the comforts that a cat provides.

Nevertheless, note that cats are sensitive to load; a loaded cat will have its performance affected.

Living Spaces and Liveaboard Comfort

The one thing a modern cat does not lack is space. A typical cat has the space equivalent to a monohull 10+ feet larger. When you factor in the cockpit space, a flybridge, and the deck space, it becomes a whole new ball game. Not only do you get a tremendous amount of space, but most of that space is also luxurious and comfortable, whether at anchor or underway.

Here Are Some Of The Best Catamarans Under 40 Feet

Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40

Price: From 350k to 450k For Sale On The Used Market

The Fountaine Pajot released the new Lucia 40 to the Miami show in February 2016, and boat enthusiasts received it with a lot of enthusiasm.

The new Lucia 40 was designed by Oliver Racoupeau, and it is a promising take on the future of modern designs. The hulls are moderately narrow but wide enough for the double berths in both cabins to fit in. The topsides are high and have big rectangular windows that allow natural light into the hulls and give a marvelous view from the cabins.  

The boat has a lot of space for a 40-footer which has been put to good use to provide a lot of options for a comfortable lifestyle on board. A displacement of 19,500 pounds and an Alpi wood finishing puts the cat on the lighter end of the cruising spectrum. 

All in all, the Lucia 40 is a very wonderful cruiser catamaran that is not lacking in looks, motor efficiency, or living space. She will never disappoint in giving you that enjoyable cruise that you deserve.

>>Also Read: 10 Best Catamaran Brands

Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40 Specs

Overall length: 38.4 ft Waterline length: 37.9 ft Beam: 21.7 ft Draft: 3.9 ft Air draft: 63.3 ft Overall height: 14 ft Light displacement:21,000 pounds Load displacement: 27,000 pounds Material: Polyester Fiberglass

Price: From 350k to 600k For Sale On The Used Market

The Lagoon 40 has come to replace her previous 39 and 400 models. Designed by VPLP, the new cat adopted the style of her larger predecessors, including the angular transoms, lengthier rectangular hull ports to let natural light stream in below. The design also includes a coach roof that shapes into an upward angled composite hard drop, giving her a more “aggressive” look. Special attention was placed into keeping the weight low.

The interior has not gone through any overly dramatic change, but the tweaks have been given an extra feel of luxury. The symbolic white fiberglass or gray cabinetry of the 39 has been discarded for richer shades of dark brown Alpi wood and plenty of leather accents. The lagoon 40 has 3-4 cabins readily available for use.

The Lagoon 40 is truly a beauty among beauties, a modern marvel that does not go for less when it comes to luxury.

>>Also Read: 10 Best Catamarans Under 200k

Lagoon 40 Specs

Length overall: 38.5ft Beam: 22.2ft Draft: 4.5ft Mast clearance: 60.5ft Light displacement (EEC): 10,885t Sail area: 875 sq ft Square top mainsail: 511 sq ft Self-tacking jib: 364 sq ft

Price: From 250k to 400k For Sale On The Used Market

Renowned naval architects Marc van Peteghem and Vincent Lauriot Prevost of VPLP design have gone above and beyond with this modern marvel. While the defining features of the previous lagoon remained, very significant changes were made to the rigs and hulls to boost sailing performance. Most importantly, the mast and the center of buoyancy of the hulls are farther apart.

The boat has infusion molding, which serves for increased weight saving (a factor very important for a catamaran), an optimal structure, and better protection for the environment and shipbuilders.

The woodwork for the interior of the 39 was done with Alpi reconstructed wood, coupled with vertical glazing for protection against the sun.

Lagoon 39 Specs

Length Overall: 38.3ft Beam: 22.3ft Draft Minimum: 4.0ft Water Capacity: 66.0 imperial gallons Fuel Capacity: 88.0 imperial gallons Cabins: 4 Berths: 8/10 Day maximum passengers: 10 Bathrooms: 2 WC: 2 Number of engines: 2 Power: 40 hp

Price: From 150k to 450k For Sale On The Used Market

The Lagoon 380 is the most sought-after cat in the world, and it is not hard to see why. Line her up against her follow cats like the lagoon 46 or 42, and she still tops them.

She is a certified ocean crosser; quite sturdy, safe, and economical. She also has an acceptable level of performance and is pretty spacious for a cat of her size. What more could you ask for? She definitely one of the best catamarans under 40 feet and a dreamboat for an enjoyable cruise.

The 380 is not the lightest boat for her size. Her hulls are made from solid fiberglass below the waterline and cored with a mix of foam and balsa above the waterline.

The design used for the interior is top-notch, and it makes use of the available space. The boat also possesses vertical windows that help to efficiently maximize space and minimize the heat from the sun. In addition, there are dual sliding doors that open up the saloon into the cockpit. The Lagoon 380 is truly a modern masterpiece.

Lagoon 380 Specs

Length Overall: 37.7 ft Beam: 21.3ft Draft Minimum: 3.8ft Water Capacity: 88 – 132 imperial gallons Fuel Capacity: 44 imperial gallons Cabins: 4 Berths: 8/10 Day maximum passengers: 10 Power: 30 hp

Nautitech 40

Price: From 250k to 600k For Sale On The Used Market

Looking for a spectacular sailing sensation? Are you planning on spending a wonderful and relaxing trip with family and friends on the sea? If yes, then look no further; the Nautitech 40 is the perfect cat for you.

The open design gives you huge living space for a forty-foot cat, the most in her class. She is pretty light for a production cruising cat and accelerates very quickly compared to other brands. The Nautitech is the perfect combination of speed and comfort.

Different density foam cores are used, depending on the location and loading in different parts of the boat. The biggest difference between the Nautitech 40 and much of the competition is the use of foam composite in contrast to the balsa cores of the competition. This allows a significant amount of weight to be saved.

Nautitech 40 Specs

Length Overall: 39.4ft Beam: 22.7ft Draft Minimum: 4.43ft Water Capacity: 105.6ft Fuel Capacity: 94.6ft Cabins: 4 Berths: 8/10 Day maximum passengers: 10 Bathrooms: 2 WC: 2 Number of engines: 2 Power: 30 hp

If you are not an ardent yacht lover yet, then the Bali 4.0 should easily change your mind. This modern marvel towers above all others in the cat crowd, boasting a state-of-the-art design and revolutionary features. Her oversized and wholly open spaces, plus its competitive price, makes it a superb choice for you. 

The interior design of the boat stems from the famous Italian composite material, Alpi, which has a mixture of thin African woods laminated with a gorgeous outer surface. The addition of other complimentary fabrics sums up a tasteful modern décor.

You cannot be faulted for calling her a floating apartment, so if you’re looking for something large but lightweight with a feel of “home” offshore, the Bali 4.0 has it all.

Bali 4.0 Specs

Length Overall: 39.1ft  Beam: 22.0ft Draft Minimum: 3.7ft Water Capacity: 176 imperial gallons Fuel Capacity: 88.0 imperial gallons Cabins: 4  Berths: 8/10 Day maximum passengers: 10 Number of engines: 2 Power: 20 hp

Seawind 1190

Price: From 400k to 550k For Sale On The Used Market

Seawind built upon the global success garnered from the 1160 to create a swifter model with enhanced performance. With the addition of retractable rudders, carbon fiber throughout, and a wardrobe of performance sails, she is truly a top-class cat.

The 1190 is intended to be a sportier version of its comfortably cruising sibling. It has various performance-enhancing features like the carbon-reinforced beam for reduced weight and the carbon bowsprit for stiffer/lighter construction.

Similar to her sister, the 1190 has trifold doors opening the saloon to the cockpit with the forward opening Saloon window, which allows the cat to have maximum airflow.

Seawind 1190 Specs

Length Overall: 38.1ft Beam: 21.3ft Draft Minimum: 3.6ft Water Capacity: 154 imperial gallons Fuel Capacity: 79.2 imperial gallons Cabins: 3 Berths: 8/10 Day maximum passengers: 10 Bathrooms: 1

Beneteau Excess 12

Price: New From 350k (Sailaway)

Excess is a new multihull line designed by Groupe Beneteau. It was designed to be an open cat that connects the crew more directly with their sailing experience.

The French naval architect focused on streamlining the interior wood structure and, in doing so, got rid of a lot of cabinetry hardware. The result was a smoother and lighter interior that still satisfies all your needs.

Beneteau Excess 12 Specs

Length Overall: 38.5ft Beam: 22.0ft Draft Minimum: 4.43ft Water Capacity: 66 imperial gallons Fuel Capacity: 96.8 imperial gallons Cabins: 4 Berths: 8 Day maximum passengers: 8 Number of engines: 2 Power: 45 hp

Prout Escale 39 – Best Budget Option

Price: Around 150k For Sale On The Used Market

The Prout Escale 39 was built in Essex, United Kingdom, in 1991. This cruising beauty was created by two brothers, Francis and Roland Prout. 

The Escale, compared to previous builds, has a considerably larger beam; this, in turn, resulted in her having a very spacious interior. If you prioritize comfort over speed, then the Escale 39 is the perfect boat for you. She has ideal accommodations below deck, the kind of space you will not find in a monohull. Some parts of her interior are dated, and this reflects on her second-hand prices.

Prout Escale 39 Specs

Overall length: 39″0″ Waterline length: 35″0″ Beam: 18″3″ Hull beam (max.): 4″3″ Draft: 3″3″ Max. headroom: 6″10″ Mainsail: 243 sq. ft. Genoa: 475 sq. ft Staysail: 125 sq. ft. Displacement: 15,679 lbs. Freshwater tank: 154 gals. Fuel: 35 gals.

Gemini Legacy 35

Price: From 200k to 300k For Sale On The Used Market

The Gemini cat has always been one of the silent achievers in American boatbuilding. Once again, they have delivered greatness with the Legacy 35.

She still has roughly the same looks as her predecessors with the familiar hardtop pilothouse and elongated upswept side ports. Her cockpit, however, has been rebranded to include an optional aft bench for stowage.

The interior layout has seen changes, but this has improved the comfort she provides in a lot of ways. The saloon has been designed to take a U-shape on the centerline in the raised pilothouse.

Gemini Legacy 35 Specs

Length Overall: 34.51 Fuel Capacity: 35.93 US gallons.  Cabins: 2 Berths: 4/6 Day maximum passengers: 6 Bathrooms: 2 Number of engines: 2 Power: 15 hp

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, while all the boats mentioned above may vary and appeal to different tastes and preferences, it is guaranteed that renting or buying any of the above catamarans is sure to offer a great amount of onboard luxury and satisfy any need and aesthetic taste. 

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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The Invincible 40’ Catamaran – Never content to rest on our laurels, we recently reinvented the entire catamaran industry when we launched our original 40’ in 2017. Our 40’ is the first to use Morrelli & Melvin’s innovative, hybrid, semi-asymmetrical design, giving it unprecedented performance and handling for a catamaran, with the speed, room and range to carry you and your crew virtually anywhere, under any conditions.

Specifications

Length overall, dead rise at transom, weight with power*, standard fuel capacity.

800 GALLONS

3,637 LITRES

Maximum Horsepower

*weight is listed as “ready to fish” which indicates full fuel and livewells..

Insulated Fish Box

Forward Side Storage

Anchor Locker

Bilge Access

Photo Gallery

Highlighted features.

• 360-Degree Walk Around Fishability
• Side Dive Door (Optional)
• Flat Transom
• 750-plus Nautical Mile Range

STANDARD FEATURES

• Above and Below Deck Livewells
• AGM Sealed Batteries
• Built-In Anchor Locker
• Under Deck Storage
• Finished Bilge
• Under Gunnel Lighting
• Interior Console Light
• Saltwater Washdown
• Waterproof Switches and Circuit Breaker Protected System
• 100% Vinylester Resin Hull
• Four (4) Automatic 2,000 GPH Bilge Pumps
• Vacuum-Bagged Cored Hull Construction
• 316 Stainless-Steel Hardware

POWER OPTIONS

• Quadruple 300 Yamaha
• Quadruple 300 Mercury Verado V8
• Quadruple 350 Mercury Verado
• Quadruple 400 Mercury Verado
• Quadruple 450R Mercury Racing (5.44”)

CUSTOM TOP OPTIONS

• Folding Tower w/ Dual Station (Mercury)
• Folding Tower w/ Dual Station (Yamaha)
• Crow’s Nest for Hardtop w/ Ladder
• LED Spreader Lights (each)
• Rupp Top Gun Revolution Outriggers
• Rupp Carbon Fiber Outrigger Upgrade
• Gem Deluxe Outriggers w/ Carbon Fiber Poles
• Rod Holders for Back of Hardtop (6)
• 3-Panel Polycarbonate Enclosure
• 2-Panel Polycarbonate Wings
• Powder Coating Package
• Powder Coating for Buggy Top
• Windshield Enclosure (includes powder coating)
• Windshield 2-Panel Polycarbonate Wings
• Double Rod Rack w/ Rear Support Legs

FISHING ACCESSORY OPTIONS

• Rod Holders on Side of Gunwale Additional (each)
• Rod Holders on Console Vertical (each)
• Rod Holders on Coffin Box (each)
• Heavy-Duty Swivel Rod Holders (each)
• Livewell Seachest 2 pumps
• Livewell Seachest 3 pumps
• Livewell Seachest 4 pumps
• Large Livewell Seachest 6 pumps
• Above-deck Livewell Connections (each)
• Clear Plexiglass Lid for Livewell (Floor Well)
• Under Gunnel Rod Racks (each)
• Under Gunnel Gaff Holders (each)
• Electric Reel Outlets (each)
• Livewell Light (each)
• In-Floor Livewell – 70 Gallons

SEATING OPTIONS

• Deluxe Bait-Prep Tackle Station w/ Cooler
• Triple Custom Llebroc Helm Chairs
• Deluxe Back-to-Back Helm Seat w/ Built-in cooler
• Rear-facing Tackle Station Upgrade
• Deluxe Flat-back Tackle Station
• Fiberglass Cooler with Sliding Track System
• Rear Fold-out Jump Seats
• Medium Coffin Box
• Rear Lounge Seats (Removable)
• Removable Backrest Cushion
• Large Coffin Box
• Backrest for Large Coffin Box
• Extended Console-Coffin

ENHANCEMENT AND CONVENIENCE OPTIONS

• Fancy Rigid Rubrail with Stainless Insert
• Hull-side Dive Door w/ Ladder
• Dive Ladder – Transom Pullout Style
• Freshwater Washdown
• Hose Coil Kits for Fresh and Salt Washdowns
• Additional Hose Coil Kit for Salt Washdown
• Additional Hose Coil Kit for Fresh Washdown
• Deluxe Electric Head in Console
• Windlass in Hull w/ Custom Anchor and Bracket
• SS Towing Eye Strike Plate Package
• Underwater Lights LED – Blue & White (each)
• PC1800 Battery System Upgrade
• Battery Charger with Galvanic Isolator
• Stainless-Steel Cupholders on Gunwale (each)
• Ultra Junior Float Switch Upgrade (each)
• Upper Console Keeper

COLORS AND CANVAS OPTIONS

• Custom One-Color Gelcoat for Hull
• Paint Underside of Hardtop
• Full Coaming Bolsters
• SeaDek Helm Pad
• SeaDek Console Exterior Package
• SeaDek Console Interior Package

COVER AND SHADE OPTIONS

• Forward Bahama Shade
• Aft Bahama Shade
• Console Cover
• Extended Console-Coffin Cover
• Leaning Post Cover
• Medium Coffin Box Cover
• XL Coffin Box Cover
• Motor Cover (each)
• Second Station Box Cover

A catamaran for sailing and living fully

The 40 Open has been designed for lovers of sailing and good life. This luxury catamaran combines sailing sensations and absolute comfort on board, so that you never have to choose between the two. Whether you are an experienced skipper or a beginner cruiser, the 40 Open will take you and your family on a journey of discovery at sea. Beautiful moments of sharing on the horizon.  

A neat design bathed in light   Like the 44 Open, this catamaran has an open living space with the deck, the cockpit and the saloon all being on the same level. A cozy and beautiful atmosphere full of conviviality. This is where the concept of the "Open" lies. Beautiful volumes, natural light and comfort are the main characteristics of this outstanding catamaran which can accommodate up to 8 people. The 40 Open is the perfect illustration of the French expertise in catamarans.

The details that make the difference

• Natural light in every room
• An elegant interior decor

The double helmstation, NAUTITECH's DNA

Double steering station, the choice of performance :

• - ideal position to keep an eye on the sea and sails
• - more sensations at the helm 
• - best position to dock along a quay or pontoon

A word from the architect

"In a nutshell: the Open 40 is the catamaran of choice for a round-the-world trip thanks to its great maneuverability and size. It is a boat designed for all those who love to sail while enjoying life on board, a balance made possible by the aft helm station".

Marc Lombard, 

Architect of the 40 Open

Welcome on board

Discover the Nautitech 40 Open with some data

Technical data

3 cabin version

You can choose the three-cabin version with its huge owner’s cabin on the port side. It comes with a separate shower, a big bathroom and loads of storage space. 

4 cabin version

Or the four-cabin version, with two shared bathrooms

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Go sailing around the world, explore the oceans or live extraordinary moments on board a 40 Open?  

Discover the stories of Gérald & Marie Claude aboard Harmony Two, of Pascal & Madelon aboard Zebulon and Silvina & Jacques aboard El Gaucho. They share their most memorable experiences with us! 

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Fountaine Pajot Isla 40

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The ISLA 40 follows the Lucia 40 with exciting new features. She's an ideal yacht for family cruising. 

ISLA 40 sets the standard for this size of catamarans

This new 40 feet sailing cat is a well-designed change to the Lucia 40.

The ISLA 40 is inspired by her bigger brothers. Shehas been announced by Fountaine Pajot shipyard in August 202, to be launched at Fountaine Pajot Private Boat Show in Bandol (south of France) in September 2020.

Like bigger models, she benefits from dynamic inverted bows and offers great performances.

The interior of the ISLA 40 is designed to optimize space and enjoy great natural light. Her chart table is located at the entrance of the saloon to allow more relaxing room.

Various layouts of Fountaine Pajot ISLA 40

Click here to check layout plans

Isla 40 Maestro version with Owner cabin

• Maestro version with 2 heads
• Maestro version with 3 heads

Isla 40 Quatuor version

• Quatuor version with 2 heads
• Quatuor version with 4 heads

ISLA 40 price list

Get a personalized quotation for my ISLA 40 >>

As per FP price list valid from August 1st, 2023  - Please enquire as Fountaine Pajot may change prices

Standard equipment

2 Volvo D1 20HP engines, 2x2 fixed blade propellers.

Click here to check the standard inventory of the ISLA 40.

Price for layout of the ISLA 40 (deposit 75,000 €)

• Isla 40 Maestro 2 bathrooms 415,400 €
• Isla 40 Maestro 3 bathrooms 412,100 €
• Isla 40 Quatuor 2 bathrooms 417,300 €
• Isla 40 Quatuor 4 bathrooms 415,700 €

Price for the Version configuration of the ISLA 40

• Grand Large version 19,500 €
• Oceanic version 36,000 €
• Comfort version 49,500 €

Price of some ISLA 40 options

• 2 Volvo D1 30 HP engines 880 €
• Hydranet sails 18,274 €
• 7.5KW 110V 60HZ genset 21,279 €
• Cockpit tent 3,366 €
• Garmin 1 Smart Cruising pack (autopilot, VHF, AIS, GPS 8410, 2xMulti GMI20) 16,552 €
• Full air conditioning 220V 50Hz main 22,800 €
• Watermaker 12V 65L/h low consumption  14,232 €

Average price for a fully equipped ISLA 40 (updated August 1st, 2023 - subject to price change by factory)

The price for a fully loaded Fountaine Pajot Isla 40 is around  640.000 € , including the following equipment: upgraded motorisation, Comfort pack, Owner's suite, 3 electric heads, full air conditioning, watermaker, canvasses, cockpit ice-maker, washing machine, solar panels and more.

Get a personalized quotation for my ISLA 40 ▶

ISLA 40 TEST SAIL REPORTS

Testsail review by multihulls world (october 2020).

• ISLA 40 - FP images

Inventory & Brochure

Isla 40 layout versions, maestro version.

1 owner’s suite + 1 bathroom / 2 doubles cabins + 1 or 2 bathrooms

Quatuor version

4 double cabins + 2 or 4 bathrooms

ISLA 40 Main Features

Architect Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design

Lenght over all 39.14 ft - 11,93 m

Beam over all 21.8 ft - 6,63 m

Displacement unloaded 9.5 T (approx.)

Draft 4.0 ft - 1,21 m

Sail area 635 ft² - 59 m²

Genoa area 387.5 ft² - 36 m²

Standard Power 2 x 20 HP

Option Power 2 x 30 HP

Fresh Water tank capacity 2 x 92 US Gallons - 2 x 350 L (approx.)

Fuel tank capacity 124 US Gallons - 470 L (approx.)

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For more information on this particular model, please contact our salesteam

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Description

The Lagoon 40 is the entry level catamaran for the famous French catamaran manufacturer now that they have stopped producing the 39, the 400 S2 and the iconic 380. The 40 is almost 800kg lighter than the 39- that will give you an idea of how Lagoon had adjusted the dial on this boat. The mast is further back than the 400 in the new Fourth Gen style and it is wider.

A Big Seller Will the 40 hit the kinds of sales that the 380 achieved? You wouldn’t bet against it, this looks like it will become one of the best selling Lagoon catamarans of all time. It will have to catch the 42 though. These days, of course, they have a lot of competition from the likes of Fountaine Pajot , Leopard and even sister company Excess.

Photos credit: Nicolas Claris .

1 Minute Summary

– The 40 is 800Kg lighter than the 39. – The mast has been moved further back compared to the 400 (easier sail handling). – Visibility is pretty good to all 4 corners, the port bow being the hardest to see. – Down below there’s plenty of space. She’s the best in class here. – Put the square top mainsail down as one one of your priority options. – She sails OK upwind for a fixed keel cruising cat, don’t pinch her too high. – Upgrade to the 45HP Yanmars if you can.

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Full review, specs and video  below (5 minute read)

Overall Design

Designed by long term Lagoon partners VPLP, the 40 has taken many of the design cues from her older and larger fourth generation sisters (especially the successful 42): a more angular, muscly look, bigger windows and portholes for more light.  The saloon windows are still vertical, that trademark Lagoon look, but they have been stretched which gives the boat a streamlined look.

4th Gen Styling with the Mast Further Aft With a vacuum-infusion construction and balsa coring in the deck and the hull above the waterline, the weight has been kept off as much as possible. The mast is well aft in the new 4th Gen style, with an easy to handle main and bigger foresail- all good stuff for sailing her short handed.

• The accommodation is the roomiest in her class, although Fountaine Pajot probably matches her with the Isla 40.
• She feels safe to clamber about – there are plenty of handrails to grab onto and most of the hatches are recessed on deck
• The Lagoon 40 is well set up for short-handed or even single handed sailing with that mast aft, big headsail configuration.
• She is surprisingly good upwind and great fun off the wind (especially with the larger headsail up in 18 knots of wind).
• Lagoon is a popular brand. If their previous models are anything to go by, there should be demand for your boat when it is time to sell.
• The Square Top main is an option. This should be first on your list in my opinion or you’ll risk feeling underpowered under sail, especially in lighter winds.
• Because the bimini stops short of the aft bench and that bulkhead helm, the aft cockpit will get wet quickly in a downpour.
• The saloon / aft cockpit area doesn’t feel as open as many of her competitors, especially with that mast support stepped so far back. It feels a bit like you have to weave your way into the saloon compared to more open designs like some of the Nautitech catamarans we have taken a look at.
• There is no ventilation in the roof in the saloon – this could get hot and stuffy quickly with the burners on.
• The folding ladder that you use to get onto the coachroof from the foredeck could be sturdier
• At 300L, the fresh water storage is on the low size compared to the competition.

2 steps take you up from the sugar-scoops to the aft cockpit where they have added an aft beam seat and a dining table with an L-Shaped wrap around sofa. The bulkhead helm peeps up over the bimini on the starboard side in traditional Lagoon Sport Top fashion, and there´s a day lounger tucked in behind it on the starboard side.

You´ll need to step up to see the bows though which makes it more difficult to reach the throttles. Coming in stern first when docking is the way to go, just duck under the bimini for the best visibility and at 38 and a half foot, she is very manoeuvrable with those twin engines (29HP or 40HP on the upgrade).

Getting up onto the bimini and to the mast is pretty easy- either jump up from the helm, or head up via the ladder from the foredeck. Most of the deck hatches are recessed on the deck (apart from the forepeaks).

Decent Visibility, Well Connected Overall, the helm position is a great compromise. You are connected to the cockpit, visibility is OK, and the mast is still low enough to access quickly and easily if you need to sort problems out with any lines.

The downside with these single bulk head helms is that it’s not so easy to trim your sails on both tacks. The genoa is problematic on the port tack. Also, if it´s raining hard, your aft cockpit is going to get wet quickly unless you get your helm covers up quickly, there is not as much protection as you get on cats with a full bimini.

The other thing with the 40, is that the bimini does not extend back to the aft of the boat. That gives you a view of the mainsail from the aft bench but again, that means there is less protection from the sun and rain at the back of the boat.

Well, this is where Lagoon excels, isn’t it? With fatter hulls than much of the competition, there is more room down here for accommodation and the 40 feels like a much bigger boat than 38 and a half feet.

The saloon and galley layout is pretty standard- why change a winning formula? There’s an aft facing galley on the port side (with only a single sink though). Forward is an ample wrap around sofa, the dining table and a nav desk tucked into the forward port corner.

To starboard aft is a refrigerator/freezer and plenty of storage. Ventilation comes from 2 forward hatches. They could do with some hatches in the roof in my opinion, I say that about most of the Lagoons. It would be cooler and you could keep an eye on the mainsail.

Three or Four Cabins Your options are three to four cabins and two to four heads. In the maestro version, the whole port hull is given over to the master suite, and it feels big. Forward is the head with a large shower , and aft is an island berth. Amidships, there’s an office space with a desk and sofa, and a sliding door to keep any pesky guests out. With those bigger port windows, it’s nice and light down here.

In the other hull to starboard, there are two guest cabins that share a head with a shower (or you can go for 2 smaller heads). If you really want to pack ’em in, you can configure the boat with 4 berths and 4 heads, but I’d go 4 berths and 2 or 3 heads or 3 berths and 2 or 3 heads.

It´s worth going for the square-top mainsail option on the 40, as this will catch the clean air up high and will move the Lagoon nicely in a breeze. Like most of the range, she won´t get going quickly in light airs, but once the wind fills in, this catamaran will move nicely, especially on a beam reach with the Code 0 up (go for the bowsprit option if you can). In a moderate to fresh force 4/5 you should see double digit speeds off the wind and respectable speeds (8 knots) pointing higher up to 50 degrees apparent.

Acceptable Upwind Performance Sailing upwind, you will probably be doing 110 degree tacks. Pinch her any further and the speed drops off and you will start to slip sideways, but that is true of many cruising cats. If you need to get up wind fast, fire up the leeward engine to give you a boost.

The standard sail area is 875ft with a self-tacking jib with sheets that lead back to a track on the coach roof just forward of the mast. This frees up the foredeck for a sunlounger cushion just aft of the nets.

She’s an easy boat to handle short-handed. All lines come back to the helm (apart from the furling lines for the headsails and the gennaker sheets). Make sure you go for the folding props- that should give you an extra knot.

The standard engine set up is twin 29HP Yanmars with saildrives, but I would recommend the upgrade to 2x 45HP to help you power through the chop. There is minimal weight penalty. The 40 will motor along happily at over 7 knots at 2,300 rpm and you should see 6 knots with just one engine running if you want to conserve diesel. The engine rooms are nice and roomy for maintenance – we have no complaints on that front.

The Lagoon 40 has every chance of match the 380’s sales number as long as they don’t launch another entry level boat any time soon.

The Market Leader There is stiff competition in this sector of the market, with Fountaine Pajot launching the Isla 40 (bit nippier, feels less robust), the Nautitech 40 Open (more performance, less space down below) and the Bali 4.1 (higher boom, more living space), but I would guess that the Lagoon is the top seller.

The charter companies have lapped this boat up and they remain very popular with owner operators too. It should definitely be on your short list.

How does the Lagoon 40 compare to the 400S2 and the 380? In terms of size, the 40 sits in between these 2 boats. With the mast stepped back, in general the Sail Area to Displacement ratios are lower for the newer Lagoons. In light winds, the game is all about getting the Code 0 up. The 410 is substantially longer and packs more sail power for its weight than the others.

How much does a new Lagoon 40 cost? The price is heavily dependent on the options you go for, but €500-550k gets you in the ball park for a new boat (ex taxes).

Technical Specification

Related Catamarans

Prout Snowgoose 37

Fountaine Pajot Saona 47

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• By Ralph Naranjo
• Updated: January 27, 2009

Packing four double-berth cabins, two heads, and a large saloon into a 40-foot cat is a daunting task, but designer Angelo Lavranos was up to the challenge. The high-volume, moderate-displacement Admiral 40 would be a good liveaboard cruiser and comes with a list of standard features that remain options aboard many of its competitors.

Built conventionally of hand-laid-up FRP laminate with a vacuum-bagged balsa core and a tabbed hull/deck joint, it’s an expanded version of its predecessor, the Admiral 38. Good attention to detail during the lamination process could be confirmed by poking around in lockers and other out-of-the-way areas where telltale features of the laminator’s art can sometimes be overlooked.

In cross section, the hulls are fairly full, affording significant buoyancy, but the combination of displacement and payload weight caused the stern to drag during the CW Boat of the Year tests.

This could have been an indication that the test boat was floating a little low on its lines or that there was too much weight aft. Later, the builder explained that extensive customization in hull number one did add significant weight; in subsequent models, molded modules resulted in a lighter vessel.

The hardware on our test boat was carefully installed, and balsa core replaced plywood wherever high-compression loads were introduced. The bulkhead supporting the deck-stepped mast and the heavy-duty chainplate structure also showed capable craftsmanship. An efficient traveler system benefited mainsail trim, but as with many cats, there was, in my opinion, too much reliance on rope clutches rather than dedicated winches assigned to key sail-trimming functions.

The electrical and mechanical installation was a cut above the fray, and excellent attention to detail could be found in the way wiring and plumbing was run throughout the boat. The two 29-horsepower Yanmar saildrives and the 4.2-kilowatt genset were also installed well. Tankage on the Admiral 40s includes 105 gallons each for fuel and water; the boat we sailed had a watermaker, making tank size somewhat irrelevant.

The large-main/small-jib sail plan was easy to handle, and during passages a masthead asymmetric spinnaker would add sea miles in a hurry. As with most cruising cats, a breeze of less than 10 knots, more often than not, is cause to turn on the engine and gain a boost by motorsailing at modest rpm. With its small keels rather than dagger boards, the Admiral is a little less capable on the wind, but our test boat did outperform our expectations on a beam reach despite the shifty up-and-down breeze of Chesapeake Bay.

Under power, the relatively small Yanmar engines delivered great maneuverability along with significant speed: 6.4 knots at 2,500 rpm and a blistering 8.4 knots when the throttle was wide open. The handling gear for the ground tackle was first-rate-another good sign of a proper cruising boat.

Add to this a laundry list of standard items that includes a washing machine, the watermaker, a genset, an air-conditioning unit, an autopilot, a radar/chart plotter, an S.S.B., sailing instruments, and the V.H.F.; and all you’d need would be food and a destination.

Ralph Naranjo was a 2008 CW Boat of the Year judge.

LOA 39′ 11″ (12.17m.) LWL 37′ 1″ (11.30 m.) Beam 24′ 0″ (7.32 m.) Draft 3′ 9″ (1.14 m.) Sail Area (100%) 1,043 sq. ft. (96.9 sq. m.) Displacement 18,739 lb. (8,500 kg.) Water 105 gal. (397 l.) Fuel 105 gal. (397 l.) Engines Twin 29-hp. Yamahas Designer Lavranos Marine Design Price $425,000 Admiral USA (954) 713-0412 www.admiralyachts.co.za

Admiral 40, 2007 Cruising World Sailboat Show

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In 2024, Lagoon wants to celebrate its 40th anniversary with you. Throughout the year, there are numerous events waiting to be discovered.

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