leopard catamaran models

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SAILING RANGE

Power range, leopard 45 catamaran, sleek and nimble, yet comfortable.

Awarded Boat of the Year honours in 2017 and founded upon the ethos of continuous innovation and feedback from cruising clients, the Leopard 45 sailing catamaran represents astute value, elegant lines and satisfies blue water passion.

With naval architecture by Simonis & Voogd Yacht Design, and with exterior and interior design by the world-class design team at Robertson and Caine, the Leopard 45 Sailing Catamaran not only builds on the best features of the current Leopard range but most notably offers new exterior styling and enhanced interior accommodation.

Since the launch of the Leopard 45 in 2017, the exterior styling has evolved and includes the innovative flybridge lounge. This lounge feature first launched on the award-winning Leopard 50! Like her big sister, the lounge on the Leopard 45 includes a seating area, a sunbed, and a table. Access to the lounge is provided by floating stairs leading up from the aft cockpit, without disrupting the helm station. The helm station remains well protected, and integrated into the cockpit and the rest of the boat.

Available in a 3 or 4 cabin layout, the Leopard 45 offers the perfect entertainment package with increased aft area with new layout, the flybridge lounge, ergonomically designed open plan saloon and galley, larger forward cockpit, and more onboard area.

In summary, the Leopard 45 Sailing Catamaran delivers uncompromised, exceptional build quality throughout, new, sleek styling, a sensible and practical layout, sailing comfort across all sea states, and features innovative technologies and multiple entertainment areas.

At Robertson and Caine, we favour a clear, natural flow. The Leopard 45’s increased area, ergonomically designed open plan saloon and galley, increased forward cockpit and more onboard area make her the ideal catamaran for guest entertaining as well as long-range cruising.

Onboard entertaining is accentuated with ample dining space and forward-facing L shaped seating communicating directly with the galley, situated forward. Wide sliding saloon doors afford panoramic views towards the stern, allowing the interior saloon to flow naturally towards the outside aft and forward cockpit.

The boat is flooded with natural light during the day and after sunset, illuminated by subtle hidden lighting, with individual spotlights to highlight certain areas.

The progressive generation

LEOPARD CATAMARANS

Functional elegance and performance sailing

Engine Specifications

Sail specifications, load specifications.

• 3 Cabin Layout
• 4 Cabin Layout

• European Union
• South Africa

The Leopard Catamarans Identity

Spacious and robust cruising catamarans with superior performance.

DNA of the Leopard sail range

• Best combination of interior volume and performance
• Stepped hulls and powerful rig with overlapping Genoa for superior performance in all wind conditions
• Protected helm station designed for offshore single-handed sailing
• Forward door and forward cockpit above 42’
• Lounge for additional social area
• Comfortable at sea and at the anchor
• Ease of maintenance

DNA of the Leopard power range

• Efficient design for best combination of interior volume, top speed and consumption
• Robust and built for blue water
• Spacious and comfortable fly bridge
• Forward door for superior ventilation, visibility forward and access to foredeck
• Modern design inside and out
• Easy to maneuver for single handed operation
• World leader in power catamarans

Sailing Catamarans Key Features

• Narrow hulls, Large spacing between them.
• Stepped hulls, inboard and outboard
• Interior volume above the water line
• Sharp bows for lower resistance, less pitching motion.
• Wide aft sections for load carrying
• Wide Transoms and great access to water
• Fixed keels with solid glass base and sacrificial lower section
• Rudder behind the prop for better maneuverability
• Infused glass/PVC core construction

Bridge deck

• Superior bridge deck clearance
• No step down or obstruction
• Mast mounted on post and High Tensile steel alloy frame
• Large powerful main with square top to improve performance.
• Traditional overlapping genoa for easier trim and better performance in light and medium air
• Double shrouds
• Optional Code 0 and Code D as option
• Large convivial cockpit
• Direct access into main saloon
• Direct access onto transversal passage way to both transoms
• Space for dive tanks, additional tankage, BBQ

Helm Station

• Designed for single handed sailing
• Dedicated and separate from circulation
• Protected behind main saloon bulkhead.
• All controls led back
• Direct access to side deck
• Direct access and visibility into the aft cockpit
• Protected by standard hard top
• Full visibility into the upper lounge
• Visibility of both sterns and bows
• Visibility of main sail through skylight
• Optional enclosure for full protection

Main Saloon

• Opens or closes to aft cockpit depending on weather
• Superior visibility all around
• Galley forward and forward facing nav station
• Forward water tight door for direct access to forward cockpit (45/50) and foredeck, superior ventilation and visibility forward
• Very large one level space from stern to foredeck
• Ample storage under floor and settee
• Spacious galley facing forward
• Accommodates more than one person
• Large Corian counter spaces
• Great storage in cabinets and floor
• Access from side decks or main saloon (at anchor)
• Forward cockpit (45/50) for additional social area, privacy in marinas and at anchor
• High capacity drainage in forward cockpit
• Superior quality trampoline
• Efficient and concealed anchoring system
• No chain/rust/dirt on foredeck – No damage of gel coat
• Large lockers for storage
• Island berths (access from both sides)
• Standard Foam mattresses
• Functional and comfortable
• Ample storage in cabinets, under the beds, in the floor
• On top of the roof
• Direct access from the deck 
• No interference with helm station
• Equipped with permanent cushions and table
• Easy communication with helm station

Performance

Innovation and main features.

• First sailing catamaran to remove main sheet from the cockpit (1996)
• First catamaran with stepped hulls to increase interior volume without increasing hull beam and without affecting performance.
• Anchoring system mid-way on forward deck and concealed (no rust, no fouling of chain on hulls, no mud on foredeck)
• First sailing catamaran hardtop protecting aft cockpit
• First flybridge catamaran for crewed yacht charter (62 in 2003) that can accommodate 10+ persons
• Innovative deck plan with all lines leading back to helm station
• Forward door with direct access from main saloon to foredeck, for better circulation, superior ventilation and improve visibility forward (Leopard 44 – 2010 – Leopard 48 – 2012 – Leopard 40 -2014)
• Forward cockpit for additional social area, privacy in marinas and at anchor, great ventilation and great sunrises! (Leopard 44 – 2010)
• Signature electrical davit system that simplifies dinghy and outboard motor lifting (1996)
• Patented swim and dinghy platforms with no hydraulics (inboard electrical motors) that lower down and out, allowing full clearance of transoms and easy loading of dinghy onto platform
• Compact helm station designed for single handed sailing.
• Helm station well protected behind main saloon bulkhead, covered with standard hard top, with full communication with cockpit and easy access to side decks.
• Lounge on roof for additional social area, great comfort and visibility while keeping full communication with helm station. Ability to safely stay in lounge even under sail (Leopard 50).
• Efficient electrical systems, requiring less generator power
• A wide range of live-aboard options
• Utility room option for larger models
• Lithium battery package available

Safe & Seaworthy Catamarans

• NMMA Certified – ABYC Standards
• CE Certified – CE Standards
• Over 2,100 catamarans delivered to all continents
• Only brand with over 8 million Nautical miles of ocean crossings.
• Robust construction
• Well balanced motion even in heavy weather
• Safe and robust rig equipped with double shrouds
• Rigid boom vang to prevent damage and injury
• Grabrails throughout
• Well protected and secure helm stations
• Helm station designed for shorthanded sailing
• All controls going back to helm station/quick access to side decks and foredeck
• Watertight forward door and high capacity drainage in forward cockpit

Well adapted to sunny destinations

• No maintenance hard tops covering entire area, aft cockpit, helm station and forward cockpit
• Superior ventilation enhanced by forward door
• Hardtop fully covering fly bridges of 58 and Power catamarans

Best Value, Service and Financial Security from one Company

• One unique distributor worldwide. Leopard Catamarans is the exclusive and sole distributor of Robertson and Caine catamarans
• No complicated and expensive dealer network. No risky transactions with small local dealers
• Leopard Catamarans is part of Travelopia Marine (The Moorings, Sunsail, Leopard Catamarans) and Travelopia Group, owned by KKR, one of the largest private equity firm in the world.
• Leopard Catamarans can support Owners all over the world, with offices in 5 continents and bases in all 6 oceans
• Own staff fully employed by the Company. Fully integrated process from ordering the boat, delivery, hand-over, closing, warranty, and own in-house brokerage and ability to trade, by one company, one partner

Convivial for Friends & Family

• Large aft cockpit with ability to sit entire crew around one table
• Large main saloon with easy access to and from the galley and the forward access door
• Sliding door and windows in open position allow full communication between main saloon and aft cockpit; in closed position (underway or in cold/hot weather), allow inside dining in full protection
• U-shaped galleys facing forward allowing more than one person to stand in galley
• Easy movement aft of the aft cockpit across the beam, and easy access to transoms, engine rooms and water
• Helm station is part of the cockpit, allowing the helmsman to fully communicate with the aft cockpit and visually check entire aft cockpit and interior of the boat (friends, family, young children)
• Location of the helmstation on the Leopard 50 also allows full communication with the upper lounge
• Flybridge on Leopard 58 and powercats can accommodate the entire party (sit 8+ people) with full helm station, table, sink/refrigeration/BBQ module and standard hard top

Robust, Easy to use & Easy to maintain

• Standardized systems across models.
• Motors, transmissions, mufflers, water intake, fuel supply, filters
• Generator including exhaust, fuel supply, started and electrical system
• Air conditioning including compressors, ducting, controls and grids
• Refrigeration systems, including compressors and heat exchangers
• All plumbing including valves, water tanks, waste tanks, pumps
• Thru-hulls and bilge pumps
• Hydraulic and steering systems
• All deck hardware including electrical winches and windlass motors
• Optional equipment like water markers, ice makers, BBQ
• Easy to clean interior and exterior
• Robust interior and exterior cushions, permanent exterior cushions do not need to be stowed (50, PCs)
• High quality robust hardware
• Easy to use galley with large refrigeration space
• Ample water capacity and fuel capacity
• Additional and independent battery power
• Reliable and easy to use davit system
• Easy access to aft platform from dinghy
• Robust and easy to use rigs
• Heavy sails and oversized winches

Loyalty - Experienced Choice

• High repeat business
• The choice of experienced owners that owned several large boats before

• € 0.00 0 items

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

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

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

The History of Leopard Catamarans: a Timeline

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

1997 Leopard 45

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

1998 Leopard 38

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

Leopard 47 2000

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

2001 Leopard 42 (Moorings 4200)

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

Leopard 62 2003 (Moorings 6200)

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

Leopard 40 (2004)

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

Leopard 42 2004 (Moorings 4200), Leopard 43

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

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

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

Leopard 46 2006

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

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

Leopard 38 (2009)

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

Leopard 39 2010

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

Leopard 44 2010 (Sunsail 444)

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

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

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

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

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

Read our Full Leopard 50 Review

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

Read our Leopard 42 Review

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

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

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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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10 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.

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Boat Review: Leopard 40 Power Cat

• By Mark Pillsbury
• October 23, 2023

Sitting at the flybridge helm station aboard the new Leopard 40 power cat, taking in the view of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline, was an excellent way to spend a sunny February morning. It was the day after the 2023 Miami International Boat Show, where the latest model from South African builder Robertson and Caine had made its world debut. I was thoroughly enjoying my allotted time at the helm.

Did I mention that I was a thousand or so miles from the snow and ice back home in New England? Or that the three-person helm seat was far comfier than a similar-size chairlift on any ski hill? Or that the table, surrounded by an L-shaped couch directly behind me—never mind the adjacent chaise abutting a counter with grill, sink and fridge—promised nothing but fun times for both skipper and crew?

With another nine hulls already in the works, and more to come by year’s end when production is fully ramped up, the boat will soon be available for charter vacations with The Moorings. At first, it will be in the British Virgin Islands, the Bahamas , Croatia and Greece, and eventually, it will join the company’s bases worldwide.

Off the Florida coast, we monitored miles per gallon at 500 rpm increments. In slow motion (1,000 rpm), the twin 370 hp Yanmar diesels sipped fuel at an estimated rate of 4.8 miles to the gallon. The boat’s sweet spot—3,000 rpm, where we cranked along at 17 knots—came at a cost of 0.8 miles per gallon. Any more or less, and efficiency dropped, according to onboard gauges. Top speed was a little better than 22 knots.

At cruising speed, the boat’s hydraulic steering felt nimble and responsive as I cranked the wheel into a turn. Conditions were fairly calm, but crossing our own wake, the 40 PC plowed on through the chop without missing a beat.

At low speed, the 40 PC turned easily when I adjusted the twin fly-by-wire throttles and shifted between forward and reverse. The sailor in me wondered if the builder really needed to include a bow thruster in the port bow, though the feature had made getting out of the tight slip at the marina a simple enough maneuver. For extra-tight quarters with a shorthanded crew, cameras can ­monitor the stern and bow, and deliver the imagery to either of the twin Raymarine displays at the ­upstairs helm station.

The 40 PC joins a lineup that includes the Leopard 46 PC (also sold as the Moorings 464) and Robertson and Caine’s flagship on the power side, the Leopard 53 PC. 

A word of explanation here: Robertson and Caine enjoys a somewhat unusual relationship with Travelopia, which owns The Moorings and Sunsail, and oversees the Leopard sales team. All of Robertson and Caine’s sailing catamarans go into the charter companies’ fleets or are sold to private owners as Leopard Catamarans. Robertson and Caine’s power models are branded as Leopards or Moorings models, depending on how an owner plans to use the boat. All of Robertson and Caine’s current models—power and sail—are developed by the in-house design team, along with Alex Simonis of naval architecture firm Simonis and Voogd, and Franck Bauguil, vice president of yacht ownership and product development at Travelopia. Bauguil also manages sales of all three brands.

At present, he says, approximately half of Robertson and Caine’s sailboats are sold for charter, and half are for private use. The same is expected to be true for the 40 PC. Robertson and Caine plans to build 20 of the boats this year and increase the number to 31 next year. A well-equipped model, delivered from South Africa to the United States ready to go, comes in at under $1.2 million. 

The three current power models comprise the fourth generation of power vessels from Robertson and Caine in terms of design. Previous generations shared some furniture modules with boats from the sail side, but Bauguil says that this new line started with a blank sheet of paper. The result is increased volume for interior accommodations without disturbing performance.

The boat in Miami was powered by optional twin 370 hp Yanmar diesels. Charter models are fitted out with 350 hp Yanmars, and 250 hp Yanmars are also available. Tankage is cruiser-friendly, with 370 gallons of fuel and 170 gallons of water.

Aboard the 40 PC, the owner’s stateroom occupies the starboard hull. It has a queen berth aft and a head ­compartment forward with a shower in the forepeak. Amidships are a desk and ­television, hanging lockers, and a fair amount of stowage.

The port hull includes guest staterooms fore and aft, each with a queen berth, and a shared head between them.

It’s bright and airy in the salon, thanks to windows that offer a near 360-degree view, a sliding door that opens to the cockpit, and another door forward that leads to the foredeck, where a couple of cushioned sun beds await. The cockpit is shaded by the flybridge, with a cushioned seat across the transom, and a dining table.

The salon itself is well-laid-­out, with an indoor helm station tucked into the forward starboard corner. To port, an L-shaped couch surrounds a coffee table (a dining table is optional); opposite is an upholstered chair. The galley is adjacent to the cockpit, with a full-size, home-style fridge to starboard and an L-shaped counter to port that includes an induction stove top, a convection microwave oven, a sink, and a dishwasher.

On deck, a solid stainless-­steel rail around the boat provides secure handholds for moving about underway.

Inside and out, the lines of the 40 PC are sharp and stylish. Bauguil says early orders indicate that the boat is appealing not only to multihull sailors who want to make a jump into power, but also to powerboaters looking for the efficiency gained by two hulls. As for charterers, I can state it pure and simple: Put me on a 40 PC somewhere warm and sunny for a week, and I’ll guarantee a good time.  

Leopard 40 Power Cat Specifications

• More: Boat Review , catamaran , leopard catamarans , power cat , Print August 2023
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Brand: Leopard

Jump to Leopard Catamarans For Sale

Beginning in 1997, Leopard has produced over 21 power and sailing catamaran models. With sizes to fit any need or budget, their sailing catamaran line ranges from a compact 38-footers to a luxurious 62-footer.

Leopard Catamarans of South Africa was founded by builders John Robertson and Jerry Caine in 2000– a partnership that has been sustained since 1991. At the time, their catamarans were designed and built primarily for charter companies Sunsail and The Moorings. With over 1,500 vessels catamarans built, Leopard has established itself a leader in the production catamaran market both for private and charter use.

Leopard 46 (Caribbean)

S/V Paw Paw is a 2011 Leopard 46 catamaran, for sale by owner. Designed by architects, Melvin and Morrelli, and built by Robertson and Caine, this outstanding, single owner 2011 Leopard 46 is a world class blue water cruising catamaran that combines a stylish, comfortable and spacious living accommodation, high quality construction and great performance.

This yacht comes fully equipped with twin YANMAR 54HP engines, RAYMARINE electronics, NORTHERN LIGHTS generator, wind and solar power, 600Ah lithium house battery bank, SPECTRA 12 Volt water maker, VICTRON 2 kW inverter / charger and air conditioning, to mention just a few of her features.

Whilst this yacht has been immaculately maintained, it also features numerous upgrades and enhancements undertaken over the years, including new standing rigging in May of 2023.

Leopard 46 (Bahamas)

S/V New World is a 2009 Leopard 46 catamaran, for sale by owner.

Launched in 2009, New World has been consistently lived on full time by a family of 4 since early 2020. She has sailed between the Chesapeake Bay on USA east coast and Grenada in the southern Caribbean while visiting all the islands in between. She has been updated and maintained to safely transport her family while having all the comforts including 2600 watts of solar with 1200 ah of lithium, Starlink, watermaker, washing machine, feathering props, downwind sail, and plenty of spare parts (including spare saildrive).

New World is a 4 cabin/4 head version. She has a double full enclosure to have a screen and/or clear isinglass. Dometic freezer, all Victron electrical system including 3000 watt Multiplus inverter, Cerbo with touchscreen, and even water tank sensors are just some of the upgrades that allow you to monitor your boat systems from the touch of your phone or computer. So much storage with all beds having external facing under-bed storage as well as under-bed deep storage areas.

Leopard 47 (Florida)

S/V Smoke and Roses is a 2005 Leopard 47 catamaran for sale by owner, located in Port Charlotte, Florida. This Leopard 47 is built with thicker hulls for durability and peace of mind. This vessel can take on high seas, goes fast and points well to the wind. It is a 4 cabin version, with queen berths that can sleep 10 and has the reliable shaft drives.

Being the original owners, we have enjoyed over 50,000 cruising miles, including a circumnavigation and many years owning a sailing charter business. Below deck, Smoke and Roses has four spacious, air conditioned private staterooms with en suite heads and showers. The head has been removed from one cabin and replaced with a washer and dryer. ​ The upgraded rig geometry allows reefing from both the helm or the mast. The vast trampoline between the bows is the perfect place to relax and the user friendly deck layout is easy to move around with a non-skid surface. 

Leopard 45 (Caribbean)

S/V Smile Maker is a 2017 Leopard 45 catamaran, for sale by owner. Smile Maker comes with 4 Queen Beds and 1 Single Bed and 5 Bathrooms, with GenSet and AirCon.

The yacht is profitable under Management/Charter contract in the BVI to June ’24 with multi-year extension option. Contract includes parts & labor at cost, and discounted dockage. Contract facilitates Insurance in Caribbean for 365 Days/Year including All named stroms with access to H Hole, and Bareboat & Crewed & Private Charters.

The Leopard 45 includes the fully furnished Single Bed with a/c “Captains Cabin” in port forepeak and large private bathroom in starboard forepeak, which facilitates profitable skippered charters / sailing school, with 4 Queen Beds with ensuite bathrooms. Engines under 3000 Hours thanks to Covid. Freezer/fridge, inverter, dinghy & outboard.

Leopard 40 (South Carolina)

S/V Untethered is an owner version, never chartered or storm-damaged 2016 Leopard 40 catamaran, for sale by owner. US flagged with the duty tax paid.

Leopard is known for the “front door”, allowing the foredeck to be accessed through the salon. Opening the front door and sliding the rear windows open. allows the ocean breezes to flow generously when the reverse cycle dual air conditioners aren’t needed. The owner’s suite has a queen-sized bed and a very roomy master bath with a separate shower.

Both port and starboard heads are electric, with fresh water flushing, which eliminates any odors. The port hull features two staterooms with closets and under-bed storage. The galley and salon have an abundant amount of room to move freely. You’ll feel right at home when preparing meals in the spacious galley. The side-by-side refrigerator/freezer is brand new. S/V Untethered is a perfect choice for sailing getaways or even a liveaboard. Schedule an appointment today for a private viewing.

Leopard 39 PowerCat (Florida)

M/Y Traveller is a gorgeous 2013 Owner’s version Leopard 39 Powercat catamaran, for sale by owner.  She is powered with the Leopard factory upgraded Yanmar 150hp engines. Currently, engines are running great and Traveller cruises at a spirited 14 knots – with a max speed of 18 knots.

Features of this 2013 Leopard 39 PC include a spacious raised flybridge with helm station and hard top, three cabin interior layout, full galley and saloon, plus a breezy open cockpit that’s covered in luxurious barefoot-friendly Flexi-Teak, that reaches all the way out to the extended sugar scoops. Traveller had new bottom paint in 2022.

Currently, this is the ONLY vessel of it’s kind for sale in the US, (OWNER’s VERSION, 150 HP engines).

Leopard 45/47 (Caribbean)

S/V Althea is a newly redone 2000 Leopard 45/47 catamaran, for sale by owner. Althea has had her sugar scoops extended by 2 feet to a total of 47 feet to enhance her performance in 2023.

The classic Leopard 45, also known as the Moorings 4500, was designed by Simonis Voogd and built by Robertson & Caine in South Africa. When it was introduced in 1997, the Leopard 45 was selected by Cruising World Magazine as “Charter Boat of the Year” and quickly built an outstanding reputation in the Moorings and Sunsail charter fleets. These catamarans set the standard for comfort, ease of sailing and performance when they were introduced.

The layout allows easy movement about the boat from the spacious aft deck, a step down to the swimming platform, or relaxing on the foredeck trampoline. The innovative deck layout brings a host of features to make life and sailing simplicity itself. From the aft deck arch that puts the mainsail sheeting system out of harm’s way, to the ingenious anchoring system, sailing the Leopard 45 is a breeze. The Leopard 45 has robust shaft drives and skeg protected rudders making it well suited to cruising in remote areas.

Leopard 48 (Florida)

S/V Paradise is an award-winning 2013 Leopard 48 catamaran, for sale by owner. She is still the gold standard for live-aboard blue-water cruisers.

She is ready to cruise up the Exumas Island chain in the southern Bahamas. She is ready to cruise with solar, lithium, watermaker, and flat-dish high-performance starlink. This is the four-bedroom version thats perfect for making either aft bedroom into your owner’s master and hosting plenty of family or friends. Her galley comes fully equipped ready to cook on the water, with a grill out back.

If you’ve been looking for an affordable cruiser that can go anywhere in the world, look no farther than this lady who is ready to sail.

Leopard 380 (Atlantic)

S/V Muvfasta is a 1999 Leopard 38 Owners Version catamaran for sale by owner with 3 cabins and 2 heads.  The Owners’ Version Leopard 38 is a highly sought after catamaran with a stellar reputation.

We are the second owners of Muvfasta and take excellent care of her.  We have done many upgrades to Muvfasta since we got her in April 2019. We sailed her in the Caribbean island hopping and then sailed her from St. Lucia to Louisiana from March to August 2020 during the Covid 19 pandemic.

If you are looking for a practical, efficient design and a stable platform, then you can’t go wrong with this Leopard 38. Everything is laid out thoughtfully and logically in a way that makes perfect sense. Please click on the link for more details and many photos.

Leopard 44 (Greece)

S/V Big Easy is a 2012 Leopard 44, for sale by owner. She is well cared for and upgraded, turn-key, 4-cabin, 4-head catamaran, that is perfect for blue water sailing in the Med.

The Leopard 44 features two cockpits, one fore and one aft with outside dining area protected by a functional hard-top bimini. Sailing the Leopard 44 is easy: both main and jib sheets lead to stoppers and self-tailing (electric) winches directly adjacent to the helm.

Big Easy is fully loaded with air conditioning, 6kw generator, New Solar 400W Sunware (2021), Antifouling (2023), and New Lewmar Windlass, Rocna 33kg anchor and chain 100m (2023). Do not miss your chance to own this turn key 44 Leopard Catamaran.

Marine News from the Great Lakes

Introducing the new leopard 40pc, the excellent new leopard power catamaran available in 40 feet.

Published: Friday, July 15, 2022 10:00 am By: Leopard Catamarans

Fort Lauderdale, FL —  Introducing the new Leopard Power Catamaran, the Leopard 40 PC. The success of the Leopard 53PC and Leopard 46PC has reinforced Leopard Catamarans' world leadership in the cruising power catamaran market. The arrival of our new yacht in 2023 completes a modern range, entirely reinvented, and specifically designed to meet the highest requirements of comfort and seaworthiness.

With sharp lines and a contemporary design, the new Leopard 40 PC is immediately identifiable as part of the new generation of Leopard power catamarans. Like the 46 and 53 foot predecessors, the side glazing runs the full length of the hull. The sleek roof cap integrates the largest flybridge ever seen on a 40 ft. power cat. Onboard the Leopard 40 PC, each living space provides an enriched experience of life at sea.

Outside, the spaces are numerous and impressive for a forty-footer: aft cockpit, flybridge, aft decks, sunbathing areas accessible through the side decks or directly from the saloon via the foward door, an innovation present on all models since 2010.

Alex Simonis / Simonis Voogd Design-Naval Architect reveals, "This new Leopard 40PC has been our biggest challenge to date. It is a smaller version of the Leopard 53 PC and 46 PC that offers a similar comfort level and performance at just 40 ft. One of the main reasons this a challenge is that power cats are getting more weight and trim sensitive as they get shorter. Intense research into our CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) tools has enabled us to achieve exceptional excellence in this size.”

Once the large sliding window is opened, the charm of the new contemporary design is apparent. The L-shaped galley is fully equipped on the port side and allows for gourmet cruising. At the bow, the comfort of the saloon is immediately apparent from the quality of the upholstery. Opposite, the interior steering position provides maximum safety, with a perfect peripheral view of the sea.

The three cabins are fitted with generous island beds and sea views. The two heads located in the passageway on the port side and forward on the starboard owner suite. Nothing disturbs the comfort of the passengers because the two technical areas at the rear are separated and accessible only from the outside. They are equipped with two engines of 250, 320, or 370 HP, all in line with the exceptional reliability of the brand. Promising to reach 17 knots at cruising speed and more than 20 knots at top speed, they will ensure a large autonomy at lower speeds to satisfy the requirements of the most demanding cruisers.

The first launch is scheduled for the end of the year in Cape Town, South Africa. This is perfect timing for a world premiere in February 2023 at the Miami Boat Show.

The Leopard 40 PC will also be offered for charter and owners under a management program at The Moorings, where it will join the fleet under the name "Moorings 403PC."

tags: Catamaran , Luxury , New Boat Models

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