Multihulls World 155 Sept 17 Test Astréa 42

COUV_MM184-US.qxp_Mise enpage117/07/201714:37Page1

BE 7.20€ - IT/ESP/AU/GR/PORT CONT 7.90€ - DE 8.90€ UK 6.70£ - CANADA 12.99CAD - USA 10.99$ 96-101 SANOA47_MM184-US.qxp_Miseenpage117/07/201715:55Page96 96 ule bsd n irfule n western in Aigrefeuille in based builder all it where began!) were the exclusive architects for the Louisiana, the and 2 and 1 Nivelt (the fathers of the Charente Maritime Naval architects and Bernard Michel Joubert a range and brand a of faces changing The 50. Sowhat’s itallabout? Saba andthe now ofFrance, Helia44 positionbetween south the occupiesastrategic in the only 13m! TheSaona47, unveiled 2017 atthe International MultihullShow Motte atLaGrande in1985 flagship two was modelsat14 first Salina.TheCasamance,the Bahiaandthe m:the Pajot yard countsonly Fountaine 40years andnearly3000boatsbuilt,the inexistence After Showing range? future ofthe the Fountaine Pajot Saona 47’Fountaine Text: PhilippeEchelle-photos:Ph.andDR h Soa 7 te aa 0 te Ipanema the 50, Saba the 47, Saona the 44, Helia the family,Pajotbyfollowed taine Foun- the in model entry the now 2015is in presented 40, Lucia The range. sailboat the of exclusivedesigners the now are tects archi- naval of team Berret-Racoupeau the 47,Saona bythe 48 Salina the of placement France for more than 30 years. With the re- TEST budgets. The conquest of image and more and image of conquest The budgets. large with clientele international manding de- a of direction the in leap real a showing is market The (forever?)!footer 36 the up give did but segment, 12m the on up given not has manufacturer Cleverly,the models! different the of size the in growth gnificant 58'and the Victoria 67. This showslist the si- 1 96-101 SANOA47_MM184-US.qxp_Miseenpage117/07/201715:55Page97 sually optimize the audacious creations needed to stay ahead of the of ahead stay to needed creations audacious the optimize sually vi- toby possible architecturalmaketeamsused toolsit IT latest The A sophisticatedsilhouette are heldbycollision. Therudderposts self-aligningbearings. ding to an ingress of water in the event of the skeg a suffering serious the underside of the hull. This means they will act like a fuse, not lea- ded to the hull. The skegs are and inserted glued into reservations in bon- manually and areAirexglued foam)and / glass foam(multiaxial also in sandwich using the same method. The main bulkheads use PVC is deck the and core, the for used is balsa End-grain qualities). rosity anti-po- and mechanical higher with resinpolyester (a vinylester with impregnatedis skin outer the hull, the manufactureof the For skins). and core the of insertion manual after (infusion “traditional” is work coachroof and the bimini use this technique, the rest of the composite the of part only Saona, the For processes. molding injection (RTM) one of the world's largest manufacturing sites for resin transfer molding remains It modernized. and enlarged been has plant Aigrefeuille The evolving manufacturingquality Constantly industrial cruisers. and users individual for crucial size a in Salina, the productionof ping by stop- vacancyleft rebalancesthe Saona the of appearance the and areup), (sales won economically being tobe challengealreadyseems boats which offer a renewed interior design and avant-garde lines. The ambitious brand territory is translating concretely into more luxurious 5 3 2 because it is safe and can be used without disturbing the helmsman. the disturbing without used be can and safe is it because remarkable is coachroof the of top on positioned cleverly area thing sunba- double the and flybridge the on bench-seat the to access The Very welcoming outdoorareas Consequently, theSaonacomesacross exceptionally well. look. pleasing a generate to serve details, aesthetic of multitude a comfort aboard. Tinted windshields, deck flush hatches, combined with of abundance the givenremarkable, is superstructure the of fineness overallThe bimini. the coachroofand the of lines horizontal the with nicely in blend windshields the and neat, is coachroof the of fit The bow.the of look the modernizing and softening deck, the to join the immediately recognizable. I liked the clever design of the forefoot and boat’s perception. The hatch recesses contribute to making the brand above corativethe waterline,strip lengthen formthe and the stretch to the eye, a discreet strake toward the top of the topsides and a de- with new design elements. The exterior faces of the hulls are pleasing flux, in is it familiar,but remains profile overall The this. in perfectly with pleasing lines is a challenge, but Olivier Racoupeau has succeeded Moving all of these constraints into an ergonomic shape and ending up thout penalizing the aesthetic perception or the bridgedeck clearance! wi- all saloon, the in headroom of amount good a and cockpit bridge fly- safe and comfortable a coachroof, the of top on area sunbathing double a cockpit, semi-flybridge a impose specifications The tration. game. The work done on the coachroof of the Saona is a illus- perfect 4 2: Nothing prevents this (very) comfortable catamaran prevents comfortable 2: Nothing (very) this membrane mainsail, the Saona47 mainsail,the membrane expresses Fountaine the helm station and the access to it are central to accessto itare central and the helmstation the areas all have their place on a catamaran dedicated areas allhave placeonacatamaran their 1 : Under maxiasymmetricspiandsquare-topped1 :Under 3: A good point for the ergonomics of the Saona: ergonomics3: Agoodpointforofthe the 5: The access to the flybridge is safe and fluid and issafeandfluid flybridge 5: Theaccesstothe 4: Lounge deck, beach club and other sunbathing sunbathing clubandother beach 4: Lounge deck, the spaces dedicated to comfortable relaxation spacesdedicatedtocomfortable the on thismodel. mast andmembrane sailsallmake sense 2: Technical optionssuchasthecarbon sailing comfort are allasuccess. The balanceddesign, livingspacesand 1: The Saonaoffers great performance. does not disturb the helmsman:asuccess! the does notdisturb THE KEYESSENTIALS from romping alonginabreeze Pajot’s new character + + videos photos to enjoyment 97 96-101 SANOA 47_MM184-US.qxp_Mise en page 1 17/07/2017 15:55 Page96 96-101 SANOA 47_MM184-US.qxp_Mise en page 1 17/07/2017 15:55 Page97 96-101 SANOA 47_MM184-US.qxp_Mise en page 1 17/07/2017 15:56 Page98

TEST TEST + photos Text: Philippe Echelle - photos: Ph. Echelle and DR + videos

Saloon and cabins: a definite urban- 6 THE KEY ESSENTIALS chic style We had the swell from Fountaine Pajot Saona 47’ The current trend is towards reducing the 1: The Saona offers great performance. size of the "inside dining room" but this does behind, with the wind rising The balanced design, living spaces and not penalize the Saona (which is generally sailing comfort are all a success. to 12-13 knots. It was nice to Showing the future of the range? aimed at blue water cruising in warmer observe the beautiful, even 2 2: Technical options such as the carbon climes) especially since the cockpit is really mast and membrane sails all make sense sheltered. Stools around the central island sliding motion across the on this model. (which can be equipped with a lifting flap) will allow for dining "at the bar" if the weather is water and the delicate cooler. Galley fittings and refrigeration (sli- support of the hulls on the ding drawers in stainless steel) are beautifully crafted; the large door retracts on both sides, water and the bow that lifts really opening up the galley-saloon area. Isa- with determination belle Racoupeau’s stamp is clearly identifiable 1 : Under maxi asymmetric spi and square-topped here, with beautiful upholstery in a modern membrane mainsail, the Saona 47 expresses Fountaine The engine compartments Pajot’s new character and comfortable shape, carefully-designed li- 3 Our Saona test boat is a very upgraded 2: Nothing prevents this (very) comfortable catamaran ving spaces and a contemporary decorative from romping along in a breeze 7 style skillfully transposed into the nautical model and equipped with a multitude of world. The portlights in the ceiling of the sa- 5 3: A good point for the ergonomics of the Saona: equipment (generator, reversible air conditio- the helm station and the access to it are central to loon offer a good view of the sails from the ning, carbon mast, membrane sails, fiber rig- the spaces dedicated to comfortable relaxation The communication between the helm sta- galley or from when you are sitting. The ow- ging, extra refrigeration, hydraulic platform 4: Lounge deck, beach club and other sunbathing tion and the cockpit (by a small internal stair- ner's cabin to port is attractive: a real "home ...). The layout of all the technical installations areas all have their place on a catamaran dedicated case) is ergonomic, simple and direct. The sweet home"! The recessed television is fixed to enjoyment is nevertheless quite intuitive: the yard’s in- exterior deck lounge has a transverse bench on a pivoting, articulated bracket. The light is tention here, being to regroup all the main 5: The access to the flybridge is safe and fluid and superb, there a good-sized shelf above the facing forward (on the rear beam) and a loun- functions in the engine compartments. On 4 does not disturb the helmsman: a success! desk and abundant storage. The woodwork ger facing aft (a nice watchkeeper’s berth!). the port side, the service batteries are loca- is neat, everything impeccably adjusted, the The generous-sized table can seat 8 guests, ted on a shelf, optimizing their accessibility carpet is comfortable in bare feet, and the ba- on the L-shaped sofa and the central seat. for monitoring and potential replacement (in throom is beautiful. The arrangement of the ambitious brand territory is translating concretely into more luxurious game. The work done on the coachroof of the Saona is a perfect illus- The exterior refrigerator and grill (on the aft starboard aft cabin is traditional, facing for- addition, this makes the solar panels closer, boats which offer a renewed interior design and avant-garde lines. The tration. The specifications impose a semi-flybridge cockpit, a double beam) transform this lounge area which is ward, while the forward bunk is athwarts- for a short cable run!). The choice of challenge already seems to be being won economically (sales are up), sunbathing area on top of the coachroof, a comfortable and safe fly- well-protected from the sun and the wind hips. This innovative installation on this size 4x150A gel batteries seems technically, eco- and the appearance of the Saona rebalances the vacancy left by stop- bridge cockpit and a good amount of headroom in the saloon, all wi- (but open to the anchorage) into a wonderful of boat is very pleasant, and it highlights the nomically and ecologically sound. The mecha- ping production of the Salina, in a size crucial for individual users and thout penalizing the aesthetic perception or the bridgedeck clearance! maritime tavern. Additional cushions on the welcoming feel on board and contributes to nical and electrical environments are all nice cruisers. 1 Moving all of these constraints into an ergonomic shape and ending up foredeck allow you to rediscover this area at a perceived luxurious quality, which is both and clear. The Victron 2000W inverter-char- Constantly evolving industrial manufacturing quality with pleasing lines is a challenge, but Olivier Racoupeau has succeeded anchor or in light airs. comfortable and tasteful. ger, the circuit breakers, starboard engine perfectly in this. The overall profile remains familiar, but it is in flux, The Aigrefeuille plant has been enlarged and modernized. It remains with new design elements. The exterior faces of the hulls are pleasing After 40 years in existence and nearly 3000 boats built, the Fountaine Pajot yard counts only one of the world's largest manufacturing sites for resin transfer molding to the eye, a discreet strake toward the top of the topsides and a de- (RTM) injection molding processes. For the Saona, only part of the two models at 14 m: the Bahia and the Salina. The Casamance, the first flagship in 1985 was corative strip above the waterline, stretch the form and lengthen the coachroof and the bimini use this technique, the rest of the composite boat’s perception. The hatch recesses contribute to making the brand 6: Even in good breezes, it’s pleasant to stay up only 13m! The Saona 47, unveiled at the 2017 International Multihull Show at La Grande Motte work is “traditional” (infusion after manual insertion of the core and immediately recognizable. I liked the clever design of the forefoot and on the flybridge skins). For the manufacture of the hull, the outer skin is impregnated in the south of France, now occupies a strategic position between the Helia 44 and the Saba the join to the deck, softening and modernizing the look of the bow. 7: A generous outdoor table for 6/8 guests. with vinylester (a polyester resin with higher mechanical and anti-po- The cockpit refrigerator and the integrated grill 50. So what’s it all about? rosity qualities). End-grain balsa is used for the core, and the deck is The fit of the coachroof is neat, and the windshields blend in nicely transform this area which is well protected with the horizontal lines of the coachroof and the bimini. The overall from the sun and the wind into a delicious also in sandwich using the same method. The main bulkheads use PVC "French waterside eatery" fineness of the superstructure is remarkable, given the abundance of foam (multiaxial glass / Airex foam) and are glued and manually bon- 8: An "urban chic" style in good taste, well The changing faces of a brand and France for more than 30 years. With the re- 58'and the Victoria 67. This list shows the si- ded to the hull. The skegs are inserted and glued into reservations in comfort aboard. Tinted windshields, flush deck hatches, combined with designed and skillfully transposed into a range placement of the Salina 48 by the Saona 47, gnificant growth in the size of the different the underside of the hull. This means they will act like a fuse, not lea- a multitude of aesthetic details, serve to generate a pleasing look. the marine world the Berret-Racoupeau team of naval archi- models! Cleverly, the manufacturer has not ding to an ingress of water in the event of the skeg suffering a serious Consequently, the Saona comes across exceptionally well. 9: The near-disappearance of the interior dining Naval architects Michel Joubert and Bernard area is the current trend with this size of boat tects are now the exclusive designers of the given up on the 12m segment, but did give collision. The rudder posts are held by self-aligning bearings. Nivelt (the fathers of the Charente Maritime sailboat range. The Lucia 40, presented in up the 36 footer (forever?)! The market is Very welcoming outdoor areas 1 and 2 and the Louisiana, where it all 2015 is now the entry model in the Foun- showing a real leap in the direction of a de- A sophisticated silhouette The access to the bench-seat on the flybridge and the double sunba- 89 began!) were the exclusive architects for the taine Pajot family, followed by the Helia 44, manding international clientele with large The latest IT tools used by architectural teams make it possible to vi- thing area cleverly positioned on top of the coachroof is remarkable builder based in Aigrefeuille in western the Saona 47, the Saba 50, the Ipanema budgets. The conquest of image and more sually optimize the audacious creations needed to stay ahead of the because it is safe and can be used without disturbing the helmsman.

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TEST

+ photos + videos

Saloon and cabins: a definite urban- Two very complementary test 6 10 THE KEY ESSENTIALS chic style We had the swell from sails! The current trend is towards reducing the Our first trip out would have been great 1: The Saona offers great performance. size of the "inside dining room" but this does behind, with the wind rising for learning about light to medium airs, The balanced design, living spaces and not penalize the Saona (which is generally sailing comfort are all a success. to 12-13 knots. It was nice to which are not necessarily ideal for this aimed at blue water cruising in warmer observe the beautiful, even luxurious version, being heavier than the 2: Technical options such as the carbon climes) especially since the cockpit is really standard boat. In the Baie d’Aigues OLIVIER AND 2 mast and membrane sails all make sense sheltered. Stools around the central island sliding motion across the Mortes, in the South of France, we had ISABELLE RACOUPEAU on this model. (which can be equipped with a lifting flap) will water and the delicate 10 knots of wind out of the SE after the allow for dining "at the bar" if the weather is International Multihull Show closed. The Saona 47 marks a turning point in cooler. Galley fittings and refrigeration (sli- support of the hulls on the There was a significant chop on the our approach to the hulls while working ding drawers in stainless steel) are beautifully 11 water, indicating bigger winds offshore. unequivocally on performance. The inver- crafted; the large door retracts on both sides, water and the bow that lifts Nevertheless, after a few boatlengths, I ted bows allow for a longer waterline and really opening up the galley-saloon area. Isa- with determination immediately got a good feeling about the the design of the sheer reduces visible belle Racoupeau’s stamp is clearly identifiable boat: the membrane sails by Incidences, 1 : Under maxi asymmetric spi and square-topped here, with beautiful upholstery in a modern freeboard and windage. Added to this, the membrane mainsail, the Saona 47 expresses Fountaine the fiber rigging and the fixed carbon and comfortable shape, carefully-designed li- The engine compartments weight is not excessive. Fountaine-Pajot Pajot’s new character mast are superb (the sail areas remain 3 ving spaces and a contemporary decorative Our Saona test boat is a very upgraded DNA is clearly in evidence. The restle- 2: Nothing prevents this (very) comfortable catamaran identical to the standard version). The 7 style skillfully transposed into the nautical model and equipped with a multitude of ssness of the hull design is reinforced by from romping along in a breeze maxi asymmetric spinnaker provides a world. The portlights in the ceiling of the sa- equipment (generator, reversible air conditio- the modern style of the superstructure 5 3: A good point for the ergonomics of the Saona: real power boost in this light weather loon offer a good view of the sails from the and the two-tone appearance of the the helm station and the access to it are central to ning, carbon mast, membrane sails, fiber rig- and allows the Saona to pick up earlier the spaces dedicated to comfortable relaxation The communication between the helm sta- galley or from when you are sitting. The ow- coachroof. As for exterior comfort, the ging, extra refrigeration, hydraulic platform in the breeze. After a gybe to starboard, tion and the cockpit (by a small internal stair- ner's cabin to port is attractive: a real "home relaxation areas are numerous and well 4: Lounge deck, beach club and other sunbathing ...). The layout of all the technical installations we had the swell from behind, with the areas all have their place on a catamaran dedicated case) is ergonomic, simple and direct. The sweet home"! The recessed television is fixed dimensioned, from the lounge deck to the is nevertheless quite intuitive: the yard’s in- emergency starter switch are fixed on wind rising to 12-13 knots. It was nice to enjoyment on a pivoting, articulated bracket. The light is cockpit and the forward sunbathing area. exterior deck lounge has a transverse bench tention here, being to regroup all the main the watertight bulkhead and perfectly to observe the beautiful, even sliding mo- 5: The access to the flybridge is safe and fluid and facing forward (on the rear beam) and a loun- superb, there a good-sized shelf above the does not disturb the helmsman: a success! functions in the engine compartments. On identifiable. Large-section cables cross tion across the water and the delicate 4 desk and abundant storage. The woodwork The aft section is where the most noticeable ger facing aft (a nice watchkeeper’s berth!). the port side, the service batteries are loca- the boat on the bottom of the nacelle (I support of the hulls on the water and is neat, everything impeccably adjusted, the The generous-sized table can seat 8 guests, ted on a shelf, optimizing their accessibility would have preferred to have seen a de- deck innovations are. The introduction carpet is comfortable in bare feet, and the ba- the bow that lifts with determination. on the L-shaped sofa and the central seat. for monitoring and potential replacement (in dicated cable duct). The imposing Onan of an aft platform transforms the sugars- throom is beautiful. The arrangement of the The boat is alive at the helm, swift for a ambitious brand territory is translating concretely into more luxurious game. The work done on the coachroof of the Saona is a perfect illus- The exterior refrigerator and grill (on the aft 12kVA generator is housed to star- coops, and as and when required, starboard aft cabin is traditional, facing for- addition, this makes the solar panels closer, cruising boat and comfortable and plea- boats which offer a renewed interior design and avant-garde lines. The board, and on both sides, the access to it becomes a beach club or perfectly tration. The specifications impose a semi-flybridge cockpit, a double beam) transform this lounge area which is ward, while the forward bunk is athwarts- for a short cable run!). The choice of sant to trim. Peaks at more than 9 knots challenge already seems to be being won economically (sales are up), the motors is excellent, with a great fea- integrated outdoor galley. It also makes sunbathing area on top of the coachroof, a comfortable and safe fly- well-protected from the sun and the wind hips. This innovative installation on this size 4x150A gel batteries seems technically, eco- are not uncommon! Coming back on the and the appearance of the Saona rebalances the vacancy left by stop- ture being steps in non-slip aluminum. all the functions of the dinghy easier, from bridge cockpit and a good amount of headroom in the saloon, all wi- (but open to the anchorage) into a wonderful of boat is very pleasant, and it highlights the nomically and ecologically sound. The mecha- wind confirms the boat’s good disposi- ping production of the Salina, in a size crucial for individual users and The lower hull molding allows for easy boarding to hoisting. Inside the boat, the thout penalizing the aesthetic perception or the bridgedeck clearance! maritime tavern. Additional cushions on the welcoming feel on board and contributes to nical and electrical environments are all nice tion. For our "second round", we were cruisers. cleaning, and the electrical cabinets for Moving all of these constraints into an ergonomic shape and ending up foredeck allow you to rediscover this area at a perceived luxurious quality, which is both and clear. The Victron 2000W inverter-char- in the Baie d’ Hyères a few weeks later, chic decor offers charter versions with the circuit breakers are splashproof. The four identical cabins or an owner’s version Constantly evolving industrial manufacturing quality with pleasing lines is a challenge, but Olivier Racoupeau has succeeded anchor or in light airs. comfortable and tasteful. ger, the circuit breakers, starboard engine under a powerful Mistral. We set out perfectly in this. The overall profile remains familiar, but it is in flux, top of the rudder posts pass through an with 1 reef and a few rolls on the genoa with an exceptional suite for a sailboat of The Aigrefeuille plant has been enlarged and modernized. It remains with new design elements. The exterior faces of the hulls are pleasing aluminum structural plate bolted to the with 30-35 knots of wind on the beam. this size. one of the world's largest manufacturing sites for resin transfer molding to the eye, a discreet strake toward the top of the topsides and a de- By bearing away slightly to find a better (RTM) injection molding processes. For the Saona, only part of the corative strip above the waterline, stretch the form and lengthen the compromise with the waves, the Saona In addition to the work on the construc- coachroof and the bimini use this technique, the rest of the composite With the traveler well-eased, boat’s perception. The hatch recesses contribute to making the brand 6: Even in good breezes, it’s pleasant to stay up was regularly sailing at over 10 knots, tion, special attention was paid to all the work is “traditional” (infusion after manual insertion of the core and immediately recognizable. I liked the clever design of the forefoot and on the flybridge the catamaran regained a often at 12 with a peak at 13.7 knots. aesthetic and functional details. skins). For the manufacture of the hull, the outer skin is impregnated the join to the deck, softening and modernizing the look of the bow. 7: A generous outdoor table for 6/8 guests. With the traveler well-eased, the cata- with vinylester (a polyester resin with higher mechanical and anti-po- The cockpit refrigerator and the integrated grill more balanced helm in maran regained a more balanced helm in rosity qualities). End-grain balsa is used for the core, and the deck is The fit of the coachroof is neat, and the windshields blend in nicely transform this area which is well protected from the sun and the wind into a delicious gusts of over 35 knots. gusts of over 35 knots. The second reef also in sandwich using the same method. The main bulkheads use PVC with the horizontal lines of the coachroof and the bimini. The overall "French waterside eatery" with a 50% reduction of the genoa res- foam (multiaxial glass / Airex foam) and are glued and manually bon- fineness of the superstructure is remarkable, given the abundance of 8: An "urban chic" style in good taste, well tored serenity before gybing. The Mistral ded to the hull. The skegs are inserted and glued into reservations in comfort aboard. Tinted windshields, flush deck hatches, combined with designed and skillfully transposed into the underside of the hull. This means they will act like a fuse, not lea- a multitude of aesthetic details, serve to generate a pleasing look. the marine world was starting to become unleashed, now aft bulkhead, and the autopilot and the established at more than 40 knots, with ding to an ingress of water in the event of the skeg suffering a serious Consequently, the Saona comes across exceptionally well. 9: The near-disappearance of the interior dining 10 : The good quality Alpi cabinetry highlights the creative area is the current trend with this size of boat linkages are attached to steering arms as collision. The rudder posts are held by self-aligning bearings. bursts over 45 knots and returning to interior layout Very welcoming outdoor areas well as the helm cables. port on a close reach became imperative! 11: The deck saloon opens wide onto the cockpit. A sophisticated silhouette The access to the bench-seat on the flybridge and the double sunba- 89 The upholstery has been redesigned. Note the portlights The latest IT tools used by architectural teams make it possible to vi- thing area cleverly positioned on top of the coachroof is remarkable in the coachroof ceiling which allow a direct view of the set of the sails from inside sually optimize the audacious creations needed to stay ahead of the because it is safe and can be used without disturbing the helmsman.

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TEST TEST

Saloon and cabins: a definite urban- Two very complementary test TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 6 10 chic style We had the swell from sails! Builder Fountaine Pajot The current trend is towards reducing the Our first trip out would have been great Naval Architect Berret-Racoupeau Yacht design size of the "inside dining room" but this does behind, with the wind rising for learning about light to medium airs, Interior Designer Isabelle Racoupeau not penalize the Saona (which is generally to 12-13 knots. It was nice to which are not necessarily ideal for this aimed at blue water cruising in warmer Construction luxurious version, being heavier than the Balsa/glass/poly-vinylester sandwich in in- climes) especially since the cockpit is really observe the beautiful, even OLIVIER AND standard boat. In the Baie d’Aigues fusion process /bulkheads in Airex foam sheltered. Stools around the central island sliding motion across the Mortes, in the South of France, we had ISABELLE RACOUPEAU Length 13.94m (which can be equipped with a lifting flap) will 12 10 knots of wind out of the SE after the Beam 7.70m allow for dining "at the bar" if the weather is water and the delicate International Multihull Show closed. The Saona 47 marks a turning point in Draft 1.30m cooler. Galley fittings and refrigeration (sli- support of the hulls on the There was a significant chop on the our approach to the hulls while working Light displacement 13.8t ding drawers in stainless steel) are beautifully 11 water, indicating bigger winds offshore. unequivocally on performance. The inver- Mainsail area 75m² crafted; the large door retracts on both sides, water and the bow that lifts Nevertheless, after a few boatlengths, I ted bows allow for a longer waterline and Genoa 52m² really opening up the galley-saloon area. Isa- with determination 13 immediately got a good feeling about the the design of the sheer reduces visible Motors 2x50hp (2x60hp as an option) belle Racoupeau’s stamp is clearly identifiable boat: the membrane sails by Incidences, freeboard and windage. Added to this, the Fresh water 700l here, with beautiful upholstery in a modern the fiber rigging and the fixed carbon Diesel 2x470l and comfortable shape, carefully-designed li- The engine compartments weight is not excessive. Fountaine-Pajot mast are superb (the sail areas remain Versions offered ving spaces and a contemporary decorative Our Saona test boat is a very upgraded DNA is clearly in evidence. The restle- identical to the standard version). The Maestro (Owner’s hull to port + 2 double 7 style skillfully transposed into the nautical model and equipped with a multitude of ssness of the hull design is reinforced by 14 maxi asymmetric spinnaker provides a cabins/2 bathrooms) and Quintet (5 dou- world. The portlights in the ceiling of the sa- the modern style of the superstructure ble cabins, 5 bathrooms) equipment (generator, reversible air conditio- real power boost in this light weather loon offer a good view of the sails from the and the two-tone appearance of the Price ex-tax: Maestro ning, carbon mast, membrane sails, fiber rig- and allows the Saona to pick up earlier The communication between the helm sta- galley or from when you are sitting. The ow- coachroof. As for exterior comfort, the € 476,000€ / Quintet: € 486,000 ging, extra refrigeration, hydraulic platform in the breeze. After a gybe to starboard, tion and the cockpit (by a small internal stair- ner's cabin to port is attractive: a real "home relaxation areas are numerous and well Principal options in € ex-tax: ...). The layout of all the technical installations we had the swell from behind, with the case) is ergonomic, simple and direct. The sweet home"! The recessed television is fixed dimensioned, from the lounge deck to the Offshore Equipment Pack 17,000 is nevertheless quite intuitive: the yard’s in- emergency starter switch are fixed on wind rising to 12-13 knots. It was nice on a pivoting, articulated bracket. The light is cockpit and the forward sunbathing area. Inverter-charger 1,530 exterior deck lounge has a transverse bench tention here, being to regroup all the main the watertight bulkhead and perfectly to observe the beautiful, even sliding mo- superb, there a good-sized shelf above the Three-bladed folding propellers 1,997 facing forward (on the rear beam) and a loun- functions in the engine compartments. On identifiable. Large-section cables cross tion across the water and the delicate desk and abundant storage. The woodwork The aft section is where the most noticeable 4x100W solar panels 3,820 ger facing aft (a nice watchkeeper’s berth!). the port side, the service batteries are loca- the boat on the bottom of the nacelle (I support of the hulls on the water and is neat, everything impeccably adjusted, the Floor carpet 1,430 The generous-sized table can seat 8 guests, ted on a shelf, optimizing their accessibility would have preferred to have seen a de- deck innovations are. The introduction carpet is comfortable in bare feet, and the ba- the bow that lifts with determination. 16 15 Exterior upholstery 900 on the L-shaped sofa and the central seat. for monitoring and potential replacement (in dicated cable duct). The imposing Onan of an aft platform transforms the sugars- throom is beautiful. The arrangement of the The boat is alive at the helm, swift for a Garmin Electronics Pack 1 10,500 The exterior refrigerator and grill (on the aft 12kVA generator is housed to star- coops, and as and when required, starboard aft cabin is traditional, facing for- addition, this makes the solar panels closer, cruising boat and comfortable and plea- 60l/h Watermaker 10,050 board, and on both sides, the access to it becomes a beach club or perfectly beam) transform this lounge area which is ward, while the forward bunk is athwarts- for a short cable run!). The choice of sant to trim. Peaks at more than 9 knots Bowsprit and deck hardware for gennaker the motors is excellent, with a great fea- integrated outdoor galley. It also makes I must say that this trial was (against all my expecta- well-protected from the sun and the wind hips. This innovative installation on this size 4x150A gel batteries seems technically, eco- are not uncommon! Coming back on the or asymmetric spi 6,118 ture being steps in non-slip aluminum. all the functions of the dinghy easier, from tions) easy. The well-balanced helm offered appre- (but open to the anchorage) into a wonderful of boat is very pleasant, and it highlights the nomically and ecologically sound. The mecha- wind confirms the boat’s good disposi- Gennaker 5,580 The lower hull molding allows for easy boarding to hoisting. Inside the boat, the ciable accuracy and softness. The spray that was N maritime tavern. Additional cushions on the welcoming feel on board and contributes to nical and electrical environments are all nice tion. For our "second round", we were Overall comfort Electric genoa winch 3,338 cleaning, and the electrical cabinets for picked up by the bows didn’t really reach us, or N foredeck allow you to rediscover this area at a perceived luxurious quality, which is both and clear. The Victron 2000W inverter-char- in the Baie d’ Hyères a few weeks later, chic decor offers charter versions with Helm station Pre-installation for washing machine 500 the circuit breakers are splashproof. The hardly, and the Saona progressed at speed in some N anchor or in light airs. comfortable and tasteful. ger, the circuit breakers, starboard engine under a powerful Mistral. We set out four identical cabins or an owner’s version Quality of the options of the Full safety equipment 3,200 top of the rudder posts pass through an with 1 reef and a few rolls on the genoa with an exceptional suite for a sailboat of furious gusts. Between 8 and 9 knots against a short version we tested 10 person liferaft 1,682 aluminum structural plate bolted to the with 30-35 knots of wind on the beam. this size. and choppy sea, I felt few impacts under the bridge- N Profile Commissioning 11,600 N By bearing away slightly to find a better deck, and that deck stability is reassuring despite Interior design Handover 3,250 being in squalls at near 50 knots. With the traveler well-eased, compromise with the waves, the Saona In addition to the work on the construc- Options on the boat we tested (carbon 6: Even in good breezes, it’s pleasant to stay up was regularly sailing at over 10 knots, tion, special attention was paid to all the mast, fiber rigging and membrane sails): Conclusion 60,000 on the flybridge the catamaran regained a often at 12 with a peak at 13.7 knots. aesthetic and functional details. This boat’s superb options of the Axxon fixed car- N The plumbing (under pressure) for 7: A generous outdoor table for 6/8 guests. With the traveler well-eased, the cata- The cockpit refrigerator and the integrated grill more balanced helm in bon mast, the Dyneema rigging and the membrane the deck bridge shower crosses the maran regained a more balanced helm in transform this area which is well protected Incidences sails provide extra performance (espe- wiring coming from the batteries from the sun and the wind into a delicious gusts of over 35 knots. gusts of over 35 knots. The second reef N cially in light and medium airs, as well as a general Halyard bag too small "French waterside eatery" with a 50% reduction of the genoa res- N added value, but the qualities of the boat are unde- Diameter of steering wheel a little 8: An "urban chic" style in good taste, well tored serenity before gybing. The Mistral 12 :The owner's cabin: you’re guaranteed to be won over! designed and skillfully transposed into small niable. The ergonomics of the helm station are a suc- N the marine world was starting to become unleashed, now Excellent choice with the Karver 13: The bathrooms on the Saona are particularly well-designed aft bulkhead, and the autopilot and the cess and provide a lot of safety and great visibility. 9: The near-disappearance of the interior dining established at more than 40 knots, with hook for reefing, but inadequate 10 : The good quality Alpi cabinetry highlights the creative Dynamic qualities are good for a catamaran equip- 14: Access to the bunks, ventilation and light have all been area is the current trend with this size of boat linkages are attached to steering arms as bursts over 45 knots and returning to halyard diameter the subject of particular attention by the interior designer interior layout ped with such a level of comfort. The standard ver- well as the helm cables. port on a close reach became imperative! N No intermediate clutch for the 11: The deck saloon opens wide onto the cockpit. sion without a generator or hydraulic platform and 15: The hydraulic platform for the dinghy (with lateral mechanisms) 89 The upholstery has been redesigned. Note the portlights genoa to allow the winch to be also serves to function as a beach club equipped with a watermaker should still reveal a in the coachroof ceiling which allow a direct view of the set freed up 16: Nice, clear technical installations, and an accessible of the sails from inside high speed potential. I must agree with the manufac- battery bank turers that this yacht fits in well with their new multihull family.

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TEST

THE COMPETITION

MODEL LEOPARD 48 LAGOON 450S NAUTITECH 46 ANTARES 44 Two very complementary test TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 10 YARD LEOPARD LAGOON BAVARIA ANTARES sails! Builder Fountaine Pajot UPWIND SAIL AREA IN M² 144 128 112 100 Our first trip out would have been great Naval Architect Berret-Racoupeau Yacht design WEIGHT IN TONNES 17 16,1 10,8 10,2 for learning about light to medium airs, Interior Designer Isabelle Racoupeau PRICE EX-TAX €489,000 €373,000 €389,700 $968,000 which are not necessarily ideal for this Construction luxurious version, being heavier than the OLIVIER AND Balsa/glass/poly-vinylester sandwich in in- standard boat. In the Baie d’Aigues fusion process /bulkheads in Airex foam Mortes, in the South of France, we had ISABELLE RACOUPEAU The carbon mast by Axxon is superb and 12 Length 13.94m offers real added technical value 10 knots of wind out of the SE after the Beam 7.70m The layout of the outdoor The helm station is saloon is traditional, but well designed, very International Multihull Show closed. The Saona 47 marks a turning point in Draft 1.30m the redesigned upholstery safe and offers good There was a significant chop on the our approach to the hulls while working Light displacement 13.8t enhances the comfort visibility The visual integration of the coachroof is an 11 water, indicating bigger winds offshore. unequivocally on performance. The inver- Mainsail area 75m² aesthetic success Nevertheless, after a few boatlengths, I ted bows allow for a longer waterline and 13 Genoa 52m² immediately got a good feeling about the the design of the sheer reduces visible Motors 2x50hp (2x60hp as an option) boat: the membrane sails by Incidences, freeboard and windage. Added to this, the Fresh water 700l the fiber rigging and the fixed carbon weight is not excessive. Fountaine-Pajot Diesel 2x470l mast are superb (the sail areas remain DNA is clearly in evidence. The restle- Versions offered Maestro (Owner’s hull to port + 2 double identical to the standard version). The ssness of the hull design is reinforced by 14 maxi asymmetric spinnaker provides a cabins/2 bathrooms) and Quintet (5 dou- the modern style of the superstructure ble cabins, 5 bathrooms) real power boost in this light weather and the two-tone appearance of the Price ex-tax: Maestro and allows the Saona to pick up earlier coachroof. As for exterior comfort, the € 476,000€ / Quintet: € 486,000 in the breeze. After a gybe to starboard, relaxation areas are numerous and well Principal options in € ex-tax: we had the swell from behind, with the dimensioned, from the lounge deck to the Offshore Equipment Pack 17,000 emergency starter switch are fixed on wind rising to 12-13 knots. It was nice cockpit and the forward sunbathing area. Inverter-charger 1,530 the watertight bulkhead and perfectly to observe the beautiful, even sliding mo- Three-bladed folding propellers 1,997 identifiable. Large-section cables cross tion across the water and the delicate The aft section is where the most noticeable 4x100W solar panels 3,820 the boat on the bottom of the nacelle (I support of the hulls on the water and deck innovations are. The introduction Floor carpet 1,430 would have preferred to have seen a de- the bow that lifts with determination. 16 15 dicated cable duct). The imposing Onan of an aft platform transforms the sugars- Exterior upholstery 900 The boat is alive at the helm, swift for a Garmin Electronics Pack 1 10,500 12kVA generator is housed to star- coops, and as and when required, cruising boat and comfortable and plea- 60l/h Watermaker 10,050 board, and on both sides, the access to it becomes a beach club or perfectly sant to trim. Peaks at more than 9 knots Bowsprit and deck hardware for gennaker I must say that this trial was (against all my expecta- the motors is excellent, with a great fea- are not uncommon! Coming back on the integrated outdoor galley. It also makes or asymmetric spi 6,118 ture being steps in non-slip aluminum. wind confirms the boat’s good disposi- all the functions of the dinghy easier, from tions) easy. The well-balanced helm offered appre- Gennaker 5,580 The lower hull molding allows for easy tion. For our "second round", we were boarding to hoisting. Inside the boat, the ciable accuracy and softness. The spray that was N Overall comfort Electric genoa winch 3,338 cleaning, and the electrical cabinets for in the Baie d’ Hyères a few weeks later, chic decor offers charter versions with picked up by the bows didn’t really reach us, or N Helm station Pre-installation for washing machine 500 the circuit breakers are splashproof. The under a powerful Mistral. We set out four identical cabins or an owner’s version hardly, and the Saona progressed at speed in some N Quality of the options of the Full safety equipment 3,200 top of the rudder posts pass through an with 1 reef and a few rolls on the genoa with an exceptional suite for a sailboat of furious gusts. Between 8 and 9 knots against a short version we tested 10 person liferaft 1,682 aluminum structural plate bolted to the with 30-35 knots of wind on the beam. this size. and choppy sea, I felt few impacts under the bridge- N Profile Commissioning 11,600 N By bearing away slightly to find a better deck, and that deck stability is reassuring despite Interior design Handover 3,250 compromise with the waves, the Saona In addition to the work on the construc- being in squalls at near 50 knots. Options on the boat we tested (carbon With the traveler well-eased, was regularly sailing at over 10 knots, tion, special attention was paid to all the mast, fiber rigging and membrane sails): Conclusion 60,000 the catamaran regained a often at 12 with a peak at 13.7 knots. aesthetic and functional details. This boat’s superb options of the Axxon fixed car- N The plumbing (under pressure) for With the traveler well-eased, the cata- Bravo for the subtle more balanced helm in bon mast, the Dyneema rigging and the membrane the deck bridge shower crosses the integration of the maran regained a more balanced helm in The sail-handling console is Incidences sails provide extra performance (espe- wiring coming from the batteries flybridge seat: The clever design of gusts of over 35 knots. gusts of over 35 knots. The second reef N comfortable and safe nice to use and the winches cially in light and medium airs, as well as a general Halyard bag too small are well-sized (electric option the forefoot and the with a 50% reduction of the genoa res- N connection to the added value, but the qualities of the boat are unde- Diameter of steering wheel a little essential). tored serenity before gybing. The Mistral small 12 :The owner's cabin: you’re guaranteed to be won over! deck modernize niable. The ergonomics of the helm station are a suc- the appearance was starting to become unleashed, now N Excellent choice with the Karver 13: The bathrooms on the Saona are particularly well-designed aft bulkhead, and the autopilot and the cess and provide a lot of safety and great visibility. The excellent membrane sails offer of the bow established at more than 40 knots, with hook for reefing, but inadequate extra performance in light and 10 : The good quality Alpi cabinetry highlights the creative Dynamic qualities are good for a catamaran equip- 14: Access to the bunks, ventilation and light have all been The 50hp Volvo motors are discreet linkages are attached to steering arms as bursts over 45 knots and returning to halyard diameter the subject of particular attention by the interior designer medium airs, and the maxi spi is and well balanced, though the option interior layout ped with such a level of comfort. The standard ver- well as the helm cables. port on a close reach became imperative! N No intermediate clutch for the formidable in 10 knots of wind of folding propellers is a must 11: The deck saloon opens wide onto the cockpit. sion without a generator or hydraulic platform and 15: The hydraulic platform for the dinghy (with lateral mechanisms) The upholstery has been redesigned. Note the portlights genoa to allow the winch to be also serves to function as a beach club equipped with a watermaker should still reveal a in the coachroof ceiling which allow a direct view of the set freed up 16: Nice, clear technical installations, and an accessible The outboard topsides are pleasing to the of the sails from inside high speed potential. I must agree with the manufac- battery bank eye, and the discrete strake and the turers that this yacht fits in well with their new mul- decorative strip above the waterline tihull family. extend the perception

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TEST

THE COMPETITION

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS MODEL LEOPARD 48 LAGOON 450S NAUTITECH 46 ANTARES 44 YARD LEOPARD LAGOON BAVARIA ANTARES Builder Fountaine Pajot UPWIND SAIL AREA IN M² 144 128 112 100 Naval Architect Berret-Racoupeau Yacht design WEIGHT IN TONNES 17 16,1 10,8 10,2 Interior Designer Isabelle Racoupeau PRICE EX-TAX €489,000 €373,000 €389,700 $968,000 Construction Balsa/glass/poly-vinylester sandwich in infusion process /bulkheads in Airex foam The carbon mast by Axxon is superb and 12 Length 13.94m offers real added technical value Beam 7.70m The layout of the outdoor The helm station is saloon is traditional, but well designed, very Draft 1.30m the redesigned upholstery safe and offers good Light displacement 13.8t enhances the comfort visibility The visual integration of the coachroof is an Mainsail area 75m² aesthetic success 13 Genoa 52m² Motors 2x50hp (2x60hp as an option) Fresh water 700l Diesel 2x470l Versions offered Maestro (Owner’s hull to port + 2 double 14 cabins/2 bathrooms) and Quintet (5 double cabins, 5 bathrooms) Price ex-tax: Maestro € 476,000€ / Quintet: € 486,000 Principal options in € ex-tax: Offshore Equipment Pack 17,000 Inverter-charger 1,530 Three-bladed folding propellers 1,997 4x100W solar panels 3,820 Floor carpet 1,430 16 15 Exterior upholstery 900 Garmin Electronics Pack 1 10,500 60l/h Watermaker 10,050 Bowsprit and deck hardware for gennaker I must say that this trial was (against all my expecta- or asymmetric spi 6,118 tions) easy. The well-balanced helm offered appre- Gennaker 5,580 ciable accuracy and softness. The spray that was N Overall comfort Electric genoa winch 3,338 picked up by the bows didn’t really reach us, or N Helm station Pre-installation for washing machine 500 hardly, and the Saona progressed at speed in some N Quality of the options of the Full safety equipment 3,200 furious gusts. Between 8 and 9 knots against a short version we tested 10 person liferaft 1,682 and choppy sea, I felt few impacts under the bridge- N Profile Commissioning 11,600 deck, and that deck stability is reassuring despite N Interior design Handover 3,250 being in squalls at near 50 knots. Options on the boat we tested (carbon mast, fiber rigging and membrane sails): Conclusion 60,000 N This boat’s superb options of the Axxon fixed car- The plumbing (under pressure) for Bravo for the subtle bon mast, the Dyneema rigging and the membrane the deck bridge shower crosses the integration of the The sail-handling console is Incidences sails provide extra performance (espe- wiring coming from the batteries flybridge seat: The clever design of N comfortable and safe nice to use and the winches cially in light and medium airs, as well as a general Halyard bag too small are well-sized (electric option the forefoot and the N connection to the added value, but the qualities of the boat are unde- Diameter of steering wheel a little essential). small 12 :The owner's cabin: you’re guaranteed to be won over! deck modernize niable. The ergonomics of the helm station are a suc- the appearance N Excellent choice with the Karver 13: The bathrooms on the Saona are particularly well-designed cess and provide a lot of safety and great visibility. The excellent membrane sails offer of the bow hook for reefing, but inadequate extra performance in light and Dynamic qualities are good for a catamaran equip- 14: Access to the bunks, ventilation and light have all been The 50hp Volvo motors are discreet halyard diameter the subject of particular attention by the interior designer medium airs, and the maxi spi is and well balanced, though the option ped with such a level of comfort. The standard ver- N No intermediate clutch for the formidable in 10 knots of wind of folding propellers is a must sion without a generator or hydraulic platform and 15: The hydraulic platform for the dinghy (with lateral mechanisms) genoa to allow the winch to be also serves to function as a beach club equipped with a watermaker should still reveal a freed up 16: Nice, clear technical installations, and an accessible The outboard topsides are pleasing to the high speed potential. I must agree with the manufac- battery bank eye, and the discrete strake and the turers that this yacht fits in well with their new mul- decorative strip above the waterline tihull family. extend the perception

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