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Leopard 42 Boat Review

• By Herb McCormick
• Updated: July 23, 2021

Mick Jagger was not singing about boat tests and wind speeds when he ­belted out the title lyrics to the classic Rolling Stones tune “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.” Far too often during many years of conducting sea trials on new boats—when you’re locked into a tight, non negotiable schedule for getting on the water—I’ve shown up just in time for a languid spell of very light air or, even worse, zippo breeze whatsoever. Definitely not what you want.

But there are also those lucky ­afternoons when you get what’s required for a sweet sail. Which pretty much describes the conditions this past spring when I rolled into a marina near Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for a test run aboard the new Leopard 42 catamaran , and was greeted by windswept palm trees and a stiff 20- to 25-knot easterly whipping up whitecaps on the deep blue Atlantic.

What’s the line, “When you try sometimes…you get what you need”? Exactly. And in this instance, then some.

Generally speaking, cruising cats are different than their spindly racing siblings: more tankage, more machinery, more furniture, more stuff. Which means they don’t maximize sailing performance in lighter conditions (nor are they ­attempting to…that’s why they’re cruising boats). But give a well-designed, well-built cat with liveaboard ­capabilities some legitimate air ­pressure to play with, and the results can be eye-popping. (Or not, ­frankly. Lots of wind can be too much for some lesser vessels.) Which was most certainly the case with the latest Leopard under sail in the double-­digit gusts. Where she thrived.

Naval architect Alex Simonis—based near the wild, windy waters off Cape Town, South Africa—is the longtime designer of Leopard cats, and a man who relishes drafting solid boats that sail and perform exceedingly well (for proof, have another look at this month’s ­cover shot of a Leopard 42 hauling the mail in the shadow of iconic ­Table Mountain). His willing partners in this crime of nautical passion are the artisans at Robertson & Caine, the boatyard that in 2022 will build approximately 120 to 130 sailing cats ranging in size from 42 to 50 feet. It’s true that the company could probably expand production based on the current and ongoing demand for Leopards, but that would run counter to the builder’s very ethos: Quality is the aim here, not quantity.

As we motored out of the inlets and into the open sea for the trials, I’ll admit that I was so relishing the sail that it never occurred to me to jot down the relevant statistics—speed, high and low RPM, etc.—for the twin 45 hp Yanmar diesels. My bad. Let’s just say we got out there smoothly and quickly.

Leopard was conducting a mini boat show at its docks in Dania Beach that upcoming weekend, so there was an all-star crew of sailmakers and company reps aboard, including Franck Bauguil, an executive at travel conglomerate Travelopia, whose brands include the ­privately owned Leopards, and chartering giants Sunsail and the Moorings, and whose duties include product ­development—a fancy title that actually means he spends a lot of time hanging with Simonis while sailing around and dreaming up cool boats. As we powered into the chop, I mentioned something about a reef, and Bauguil gave me a sidelong look of disappointment, like a resigned parent inspecting a horrible report card. Full hoist it was. As the full-battened, deeply roached, square-topped mainsail was raised, I had a brief thought about singer/songwriter Cat Power, for it was abundantly clear what was powering this darn cat.

It’s interesting to note the difference between the Leopard’s sail plan and, say, the current approach from one of the big French production-cat builders like Lagoon. In recent years, Lagoon, as a brand, has made a conscious decision to slide the entire rig aft, depending more on an ­expansive foretriangle for drive and grunt, and taming the entire arrangement with a self-tacking headsail. With the ­Leopards, including the 42, the rig remains comparably forward, and it’s the mainsail, with a ­relatively longer boom than a Lagoon, that supplies the muscle (we’re talking ­basically a low-aspect main and rig on a ­Leopard versus a high-aspect one on the ­Lagoon), aided and abetted by an overlapping 110 percent headsail that’s tacked like a traditional sailboat. I honestly can’t say if there’s a right or wrong answer here, but it’s fascinating to recognize and compare the differing philosophies.

Back in the real world, I’d ­ascended the four steps to the starboard helm station, which is where you’ll find the wheel on every Leopard; in such matters, these guys are unabashed creatures of habit. The surrounding view was expansive but, more pertinently, within arm’s length I had everything—and I mean everything —required to sail and command the boat: a trio of electric winches (two of which are standard), mainsheet and jib sheets and rope clutches, a nifty traveler setup, dual engine controls, chart plotter and related sailing instruments, and so on. For the most part, across the board, catamaran designers these days lay out decks with the notion and objective that it takes only one sharp sailor to run the whole bloody show, and the Leopard 42 certainly perfects that concept.

After motoring off the coast for sea room, we hardened up to a close reach, and matters became extremely ­interesting, not to mention noisy and blowy. Which was great. The cat trucked along at a ­solid 8.5 knots, but what struck me the most was how solid and steadfast she felt as she cleaved through the chop; the sensation of the twin hulls of a fine cat in exquisite balance really does feel like a freight train on its rails.

But the real fun happens when you crack off and free up the wind angle, and the Leopard leaped at the course change and eased sheets, flirting with 10 knots on a screaming reach. We did have a bit of a fire drill when a blast of wind caught the corner of the furled code zero—which then, of course, started to ­totally ­unfurl—and I got my day’s ­cardio helping drop and corral the beast on the trampolines. ­Extremely good times.

Back at the dock, all ­systems once again calm and ­shipshape, I had a chance to wander the decks and ­interior. The look and feel of the features and ­accoutrements are ­totally ­modern, as in ultra-­contemporary (more than once in my notebook the word “angular” appears). The profile is enhanced by tinted, continuous side windows in the hull, and the coach roof segues into the hard Bimini that’s carried aft and canopies the cockpit. Up top—on the penthouse, so to speak—there’s an inviting lounge space. There’s a marvelous afterdeck and swim ­platform, features for which I have an extremely soft spot. The cockpit has a fine-dining area to port, opposite the helm.

The galley is forward in the roomy central cabin, with the dining table aft to port. The 42 doesn’t have the forward cockpit employed on ­larger models, but there is a watertight front doovate owner’s cabin to starboard (with desk, ­vanity, flat-screen TV, huge head, etc.) and a pair of staterooms to port, but you can spec out the interior in multiple ways: tr that leads to a pair of sun lounges, the tramps, and an optional fixed bowsprit if you’re going with the performance package that includes the code zero. Our test boat had the pretty awesome private owner’s cabin to starboard (with desk, ­vanity, flat-screen TV, huge head, etc.) and a pair of staterooms to port, but you can spec out the interior in multiple ways: three or four cabins, three or four heads, six or eight berths, three or four showers. The four-cabin, four-head configuration is likely what you’ll find if you charter one; about half the production run is bound for the bareboat fleets.

The Leopard 42 replaces the Leopard 40 in the brand’s ­quiver, and is certainly a more substantial ride in every ­notable way. The only problem, really, is that as the world emerges from these pandemic times, they’re going fast. The 42 might be quick, but if you want one, you need to be even quicker.

Specifications Leopard 42

Herb McCormick is CW ’s ­executive editor.

• More: Boat Reviews , catamaran , leopard , multihull , multihulls , print June 2021 , Sailboat Reviews , Sailboats
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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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Power range, leopard 42 catamaran, the new leopard 42 has the unmistakable dna of the brand.

Proof that you can have it all. The Leopard 42 is the organic evolution into the new generation of our award-winning line of yachts.

Built by Robertson & Caine and designed by Naval Architects, Simonis & Voogd, together we have created a revolutionary design that has exceed expectations by offering far more than anticipated.

This was accomplished all while maintaining our signature balance of comfort and uncompromised performance.

The exterior styling has adapted to the modern appearance of the award-winning Leopard 50, which features continuous hull side windows, a continuous hardtop, and what has quickly become our signature, an upper-lounge area.

Available in 3 cabin / 3 heads and 4 cabin / 4 heads, all cabins include their own private en-suite heads. All heads include their own designated shower area; a feature not currently found on catamarans in this size range.

The Leopard 42 has the unmistakable DNA of a Leopard Catamaran with plenty of new technology and building techniques used to make it a magnificent ocean-going yacht with a feel of space, comfort and performance only previously found in significantly larger models.

In the saloon, we have added a generous skylight, as well and an additional window in the aft starboard corner facing the helm seat. The forward-facing L-shaped galley is sure to entice any chef!

All bunks are now island berths that allow access from both sides. With windows everywhere space permitted, the natural light is amplified.

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• Last update: 12nd April 2020

Leopard 40's main features

Leopard 40's main dimensions, leopard 40's rig and sails, leopard 40's performances, leopard 40's auxiliary engine, leopard 40's accommodations and layout, leopard 40's saloon, leopard 40's fore cabin, leopard 40's aft cabin.

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This New 40-Foot Power Cat Was Built to Tackle Rough Waters

Leopard's new 40 was designed and built in cape town, south africa, known for its big coastal waters., kevin koenig, kevin koenig's most recent stories.

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Capetown, South Africa, is surrounded by some of the world’s most notorious waters. If a boat builder calls this area home—as Leopard Catamarans does—you can rest assured that its hulls are designed to be seaworthy.

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Trim tabs typically don’t work well on catamarans, so Leopard used a computational fluid dynamics algorithm in a virtual test tank to ensure that this model would run level in big seas, with the twin goals of maximizing guest comfort and solidifying lines of sight. Leopard says the process also increases fuel efficiency. The model comes with multiple Yanmar diesels, including twin 250-horsepower, 320-horsepower, and 370-horsepower versions. With the twin 320 powerplants, top speed is 23 knots while cruise is about 16.

The 40’s main deck is flush, leading from the fairly sizable cockpit into a salon that is filled with windows, providing exceptional views from this glass sanctuary. The windshield flips open for ventilation, and the forward door creates a passage to the boat’s broad foredeck.

The lower deck has three staterooms, each with its own head and shower, with the main suite being on the starboard side, running the full length of the pontoon.

The foredeck makes excellent use of the boat’s generous beam. There’s a sun lounge, of course, for enjoying the area. Perhaps more interesting is the stowage beneath the cushions, where a deep, wide locker is designed to hold toys, extra clothing, dive tanks, or whatever other equipment needs to be stowed. Two other lockers forward of this one let you really load the boat for long-distance cruising. Sturdy, thigh-high guardrails encircling the bow providing an element of safety for with family cruises.

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Powering Across the Atlantic on a Leopard 46 Powercat

There are thousands of stories out there about crossing oceans under sail. But transiting a long stretch of the ocean under power? That's a different adventure.

Delivering a Leopard 46 Powercat

Leopard agent and delivery captain Guilherme Kodja had a challenge. A new Leopard 46 Powercat needed delivery from the Robertson & Caine yard in South Africa to a buyer in Brazil, and an ocean lay in the way. Captain Kodja started planning and, ten months later, set out for a month-long, 4,453 nautical mile (nm) trek across the South Atlantic with three crew.

Delivering a power yacht has similarities and differences from delivering a sailing vessel. Fuel is the priority. You need a lot, and there's no guarantee you'll get good quality fuel once you leave mainland ports. 

Weather is a concern, but your criteria are a little different. "Sea state is more important than wind direction," says Captain Kodja. "We can travel a more direct route because there's no tacking."

The Route and Plan

This won't be a non-stop trip. At a cruising speed of 6.8 knots, the Leopard 46 used just over two gallons (eight liters) of fuel per hour. With a built-in diesel tankage of over 400 gallons (1,852 liters), the Leopard 46 Power Cat has a standard range of more than 1,500 nautical miles.

Like sailing yachts, wind and current influence a powered delivery, even if the priorities differ. "We headed north for better wind and current," said Kodja. "It's a longer distance, but faster and more comfortable." And the need for more fuel somewhere along the way means he can't easily take a more southern route.

Leg One - Cape Town to Luderitz, Namibia

The first step was a coast-hugging trip up the African coast. This 502-nautical-mile trip took about three days. The goal was to top-up fuel and provisions while waiting for a good weather window. Captain Kodja noted that "a powering boat pitches more than a sailing, so choosing a good window is important." 

Leg Two - Luderitz to St. Helena

Though St. Helena lies north of Itajai, Brazil, their ultimate destination, it's a popular stopping point for yachts crossing the Atlantic. It's not just that the northerly route is more comfortable; there are few places to the south to stop. This 1,338nm leg took eight days of motoring and used 424 gallons (1,926 liters) of fuel. This was the last stop to refuel for the rest of the trip.

Leg Three - St. Helena to Martin Vaz Island and Trinidade

The Martin Vaz and Trinidade islands are the easternmost possessions of Brazil, and the crew made a brief stop there to perform the 500-hour service on the engines. This was another long leg at 8 1/2 days, covering 1,385 miles. It was a welcome return to Brazilian waters after a long time at sea.

Leg Four - Martin Vaz Island/Trinidade to Cabo Frio

Rio de Janeiro was not in the plan. The closest the crew ventured was nearby Cabo Frio. It's there, after four and a half days and 725 nm of motoring from Martin Vaz Island, they had some exciting encounters with busy shipping traffic headed into Rio and a military exercise. They ducked into Cabo Frio to miss some weather and only stayed overnight. 

Leg Five - Cabo Frio to Itajai

The final sprint to the yacht's new home was along the coast of Brazil. This three-day coastal passage covered another 465 nm of water before completing the trip.

Fuel, Engines, and No Problems

Captain Kodja solved the fuel problems by carrying external tanks. It took twenty-eight five-and-a-half gallon (25L) jerry cans and five fifty-five gallon (250L) drums. These were latched to the deck and cockpit where they could fit.

"Refueling wasn't a problem," Kodja said. "We'd look at the weather and find a good window of calm. With an electric pump, it worked easily."

"The engines ran like a Swiss clock," he added. "Quiet and smooth, we usually couldn't hear them from the forward cockpit." 

As far as other problems go, the maiden voyage of this Leopard 46 came off with no significant hitches - a testament to Leopard quality out of the factory. "We had a hose work loose; we had to tighten a few screws," the captain said. "Nothing, really."

Weather, Wildlife, and Warships

In a month at sea, they avoided dramatic weather. By watching the weather and picking good windows, they made out well. And along the way, they saw spectacular wildlife.

"We stayed south, below the humpback whale migration," said Kodja. One thing they did not want to do was hit a whale. But they did see some of those fantastic creatures. Close to Brazil, they spotted dozens of whales at once. Other sightings included rare porpoises and countless sea birds.

Another surprise was sailing into a multinational naval exercise off the coast of Brazil. The crew expected lots of shipping traffic off Rio, but they were surprised to find a naval fleet off Cabo Frio. The captain spent the last twenty miles in VHF contact with U.S. warships talking about positions and maneuvering plans.

Smooth Start for a Happy Owner

The trip is documented in a series of videos , with some stunning sights and marine life. Captain Kodja and his crew made the delivery of a lifetime and put the boat through her paces. And the Leopard 46 showed off her build quality and capability, delivering a flawless performance on a demanding delivery.

"We brought the boat back for the Rio boat show," Kodja said. "Even after the 210nm delivery to the show, it took almost nothing to get this boat looking perfect."

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SAILING BLOWN AWAY

• Nov 22, 2020

Why We Bought a 2015 Leopard 44 Catamaran - Tame the Cat

My wife Eileen and I searched Leopard catamarans almost exclusively because they represent a combination of blue water cruising capabilities with production efficiencies. In other words, they were a good affordable catamaran to sail around the world. As proof of their seaworthiness, most have been delivered to their owners by sea from Cape Town, South Africa either by their owners or a delivery captain. Because of their outstanding reputation, we also considered the 450 Lagoon; however, we steered away from them mainly as a result of their fly bridge helm positions which we think is less ideal for ocean crossings.

WHY WE CHOSE THE LEOPARD 44 OVER THE 39, 40 AND 48

Check out our Leopard catamaran's video below on our first day touring Leopard catamarans with our buyers broker Bill Regan and be prepared to be entertained and informed of the specifics on why we chose the Leopard 44 and in the process learn more about the rest of their line.

On this crazy busy day, we toured a 2014 Leopard 39 and were glad we had rescinded on our contract last spring on one in the Moorings / Sunsail Belize fleet. We loved it's design, price ($215K) and sailing reputation; however, it was too small for us as a full time home. For someone who lived in Ft. Lauderdale and took one to two-week sailing trips to the Bahamas this would definitely be a boat to consider.

After we let go of the 39, we latched onto a 2018 Leopard 40 ($225K) with contract that had been damaged and repaired in Irma and included had a new mast, boom, standing rigging and generator and we by far the cheapest of the limited Leopard 40 lot being phased out by Moorings / Sunsail. After having toured it, we realized that it too was too small for us as a live aboard and in addition we were leery that there might be some undetected trauma from from Irma that might compromise our blue water safety so we released that contract also.

Reluctantly we drove 2 1/2 hours north of Ft. Lauderdale to the Ft. Pierce Marina where we looked at a 2015 Leopard 44 with owners cabin on the hard for sale for $575K which was MUCH more than we were willing to pay but at least we could see the layout. Initially, we didn't like this model because we thought it has wet bathrooms but were soon relieved to find that that wasn't the case and were delighted to discover the front cockpit whose innovation catapulted this popular sized 44 footer to a dual "Best Boat of Year" fame with both Sail Magazine and Cruising world in 2012. Most importantly it seemed to have enough from for our new permanent life at sea and was affordable purchasing from Sunsail Charters for $315K on a model we found in St. Lucia so we quickly placed this cat in a cage with a contract on an no hurricane damaged model which had just been released from the Grenada Sunsail fleet and was heading to Sunsail St. Lucia to undergo phase out repairs.

Make sure you also click on the following links to read critical reviews about this special boat:

Sail Magazine - May 2011

Cruising World - December 2011

Boats.com - July 2011

Ultimately, the Leopard 44 was the boat we chose, but let's learn more about the Leopard 48 which we REALLY liked and the main reason we did not chose it.

We loved the Leopard 48 because it was so enormous compared to the previous one and almost seemed to be as large as our apartment in China. Not only did the rear cockpit seat 10 and have plenty of room for all of our water toys, but the combined saloon and galley with nav station was cavernous and in our opinion, leaving nothing to be desired. Add to that a large front cockpit and full size rooms and bathrooms in the hulls, this cat had us in a trance and all we wanted to do was to stroke and pet its luxurious fur while it purred with delight. Our only issue was that the price on these are mid $450K for the cheapest non hurricane damaged and older with the medium cherry veneer interior which we liked the least and will touch on a bit more later. That extra $135K+ represented a lot of cruising kitty (perhaps 3 years) and this being a larger cat means that both repairs, upkeep and insurance are all part of what comes with owning this pampered puss. Add to that the opportunity cost of investing what we save in a lively stock market over the next 5 to 10 years, and the price of this one increases way more than we care to spend especially when the Leopard 44 has everything we need, albeit it's smaller size.

At the end of the video, we tour the Leopard 58 which was due to be surveyed the next day. As you can see from our comments and reactions, it was pure joy touring this regal feline because the 58 was an ocean palace nicer than most homes, but just way out of range for our pocketbook and limited knowhow.

DESIGN AND COLOR

One of the reasons we LOVE and chose the 2015 Leopard 44 year is that it was the first year of only two years (2015 & 2016) out of seven years total that the Leopard 44 was made which incorporates the new modern sophisticated, yet casual light gray aged driftwood interior which is now standard on all Leopard catamarans which certainly inspired by Restoration Hardware's sophisticated modern, yet casual neutral shaded gray color pallet. Also special, as shown below, is the generous use of LED lighting which makes the salon below sparkly, dazzling and uplifting as well as easy on the energy being supplied by DC power. The pre 2015 versions with the traditional medium cherry cabinetry and finish just seemed too outdated and spending an extra $15K for this new boat and overall look and feel was totally worth if for us. In addition, we think it will eventually add to its resale value.

INSIDER INFORMATION FROM EXPERIENCED SUNSAIL TECHNICIAN

Once we arrived in St. Lucia and took possession of our boat, we was further reassured of buying Leopard after talking with Moorings / Sunsail St. Lucia base long term employed technician affectionately nicknamed "Small Change".

This beloved senior maintenance manager of 35 years is chief Leopard tamer and is master of the ins and outs of Leopard repair and maintenance. I mean, he even meets with senior management and technicians of Leopard South Africa to provide valuable feedback that help Leopard's renowned manufacturer Robertson and Caine make manufacturing improvements to future models that will require less maintenance, ultimately leading to less warranty work and resulting in unnecessary repairs from busy bases saving both time and money for everyone. For these reasons, I really trusted and took to heart every nugget that left his mouth.

WHY VERY FEW LAGOONS ARE IN THE ST. LUCIA FLEET

First, he said their company used have a lot of Lagoons in the fleet but switched to Leopards almost exclusively because of their improved build quality and performance. Leopards more narrow stepped hulls allow them to perform better under sail and overall they require less maintenance over their charter tenure.

HOW THE LEOPARD MODELS COMPARE - BUILD QUALITY

When asked to rank his favorite Leopard catamaran models, Short Change pays with big bills as he draws from his wellspring of experience and knowledge that goes back to Robertson and Caines inception back in 1991. He ranks his favorite Leopard models by build quality and gives the following reasons.

In his opinion, the best made Leopard (10 out of 10) is the Leopard 43, known to Moorings as the 4300 and made famous by Nicki and Jason Wynn of the popular YouTube channel Gone with the Wynns has the highest quality build in the history of the company with regards to hull strength.

In addition the Leopard 46, made from 2006 to 2012, is a 10 out of 10. Not affected by the devastating Irma, St. Lucia has more in use than any other base in the world so he should know.

I was happy to know that he considered our Leopard 44 an 8 out of 10 with regards to build quality and used the fact that most all along with the older models such as the 43 have been delivered at sea by a delivery captain and then put to grueling charter use and then sold to private owners.

When asked about the Leopard 48 and current, Leopard 40 and 45 he gives them all a 4 out of 10 backing that up with the assertion that they now are almost exclusively delivered from the factory to their owners by ship because they cannot stand the grueling 7700 mile sail without substantial repairs before delivered to the owner. It seems that possibly the bean counters have taken over in their attempt to balance new design innovation with profitability.

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• 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