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12 Best Catamaran Sailboats

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

The appeal of the catamaran sailboats in terms of speed , stability, and the ability to embark on long-range cruising has made them hugely popular with today's sailors. But what are the best catamaran sailboats?

Even though catamaran sailboats have become increasingly popular in the last few years, they have a truly rich legacy as one of the most sought after vessels for bluewater cruising.

Thanks to their incredibly wide beams and bigger daft, catamarans have become remarkably favorable for sailors looking to go for long-distance voyages, overnight cruising, and day sailing.

And if space is paramount for you when out there on the water, a catamaran sailboat is the only way to go as they offer extraordinary space to allow you to spend more time on the water with friends and family.

But even with all these amazing features, you're probably still wondering; what are the best catamaran sailboats?

Like their monohull counterparts, choosing the best catamaran sailboat can be quite overwhelming since there are lots of them out there. They come in a wide variety of designs and sizes ranging from small catamarans to huge ones.

The best catamaran sailboats can easily clock 250-mile voyages, offer incredible performance, and have layouts that can be easily optimized for individuals, charter markets, and great accommodation. In essence, the best catamaran sailboats offer respectable performance and offer good load-carrying ability.

That being said, here are some of the best catamaran sailboats that you can get your hands on.

Table of contents

Best Catamarans

{{boat-info="/boats/manta-42"}}

Even though many multihulls are no longer built in the United States these days, the Manta 42 is a true American-built catamaran that brings good living and good value into one package. Designed cleverly for easy handling, this American built catamaran is a great choice for a liveaboard cruiser for sailors looking to go for long-distance voyages. Thanks to its trademark high bows and an enormously curved incorporated forward crossbeam, this catamaran is easily recognizable even from a distance.

It is designed with a uniquely fixed crossbeam, which is very different from conventional aluminum cross beams that support the tension of the forestay. This fixed crossbeam allows for a little bit of movement thereby helping in absorbing enormous twisting forces of the bows. As such, you have to keep in mind that there may be resultant stress crack particularly in the bow area of the vessel.

All in all, the Manta 42 is a superb offshore cruising catamaran that offers a good sail-area-to-displacement ratio as well as plenty of space and accommodation. The cockpit area is refined, luxurious, and is designed with additional stainless pushpit contraptions to help in holding objects such as wind vanes, dinghies, and solar panels. The boat's quality in terms of performance and stability is the benchmark of what a catamaran should be.

Fountaine Pajot Elba 45

{{boat-info="/boats/fountaine-pajot-elba-45"}}

Recently named the "Boat of the Year" for 2019 by Cruising World Magazine and Sail Magazine, the Elba 45 is the latest model in the incredible line of Fountaine Pajot catamarans. This boat was designed to replace the outgoing Helia 44 and stands to be one of the most popular catamarans with Fountain Pajot having sold over 100 Elba 45 hulls long before even the first one emerged from production.

This French-built cat brings to the fore a well-thought-out, safe, and dependable features with 10% less drag, efficient motoring, top-notch performance, and high speeds. It's also designed with fixed stub keels and slightly aft-raked bows, which are all essential in enhancing windward performance; something that most catamarans struggle with.

To improve on safety, the keels of this amazing catamaran sailboat are glued into a particularly designed recess in the hulls. This is to ensure that there are no keel bolts that can rip out and put the boat in danger if the boat gets grounded or in the event of a collision. The rig is also ICW friendly and is a true representation of a standard catamaran setup.

This is, without a doubt, a modern-looking cruising catamaran that has a low-profile lounging space on its deck, high topsides and bows as well as a more pronounced reverse sheer that's essential in minimizing the bulk of the windows while creating additional and useful volume below. This is a true catamaran that occupies a sweet spot for those looking to sail along the bay or for those adventurous sailors looking to set sail for more ambitious offshore cruising plans.

{{boat-info="/boats/leopard-48"}}

With its fine design, straightforward systems, and easy handling, the Leopard 48 has everything it needs to be ranked among the distinguished category of the best catamaran sailboats. This is an excellent multihull that is structured with advanced materials, designs, and innovations that are meant to be fun, spacious, and comfortable.

Designed in South Africa by Simonis-Voogd, is probably the best design in the Leopard family of catamarans. Its two hulls are vacuum-bagged using balsa core to offer maximum firmness while ensuring that the weight is on the minimum. This is done by articulately regulating the level of resin in the layup. With such types of hull shapes, this catamaran sailboat is very fast and can consistently clock 12 knots of speed against the currents.

The boat is also designed with shallow keels as they're filled with closed-cell polyurethane foam that's of great importance in increasing buoyancy and preventing water ingress. To enhance the safety of the vessel, the stern and bow both have bulkheads that are essential in keeping out that water if the sailboat is involved in a collision.

The hulls of this boat are deep and narrow, particularly below the waterline. They also curve higher up to practically reduce the wetted surface area while offering enough deck space and plenty of room for accommodations. Its cockpit is another excellent feature thanks to its lavish spaces that give you the chance of kicking back and relaxing.

This boat is designed to offer superior livability, quick and easy to handle features, as well as enough space for friends and family. It is designed with beautiful lines and immense practicality for those who want to go on long cruising voyages.

Antares 44i

While many people often believe that voluminous cruising catamarans should be used as charter boats, the Antares 44i brings a very different perspective altogether. Designed in Argentina as a complete bluewater catamaran, this is a boat that's specifically built for private boat owners looking for a sturdy and well-equipped bluewater cruiser. This is an absolutely gorgeous catamaran that has a fully-equipped cockpit just to ensure that you can safely operate it even when shorthanded.

Like most catamarans, the Antares 44i is designed with features that allow for long-distance voyages. It comes with a minimum bridge deck clearance of 30 inches, which is essential in mitigating bridge deck slap. The helm station is designed to offer excellent visibility over the coach roof without having to perch the helmsman high above the cockpit.

If you're planning to make those long-distance cruising to exotic places, you'll appreciate this boat's layout. The galley is put down in the port hull so that it doesn't compromise the size of the galley and the saloon. The forward-facing navigation station is up there with the best and is up to offshore standards. And that's not all; the Antares 44i comes with good mounting points for electronics, a large table, comfortable seats, and provides brilliant visibility outside.

This boat is perfectly suited for extended offshore cruising and is a great reminder for anyone who thinks that all catamarans are charter boats and all offshore boats are monohulls.

{{boat-info="/boats/dolphin-ocema-42"}}

Designed by Philipe Pouvreau in northern Brazil, the Dolphin Ocema 42 is a truly unique catamaran sailboat that goes against the conventional norm of catamarans. It is equipped with daggerboards, which are essential in enabling it to point higher on the wind while reducing the wetted surface when running or anchoring in shallow surfaces. This, however, requires a higher level of expertise in sailing. This is because lifting the daggerboards higher up will expose the rudders while the daggerboards can also interfere with the hulls in the event that the vessel runs aground.

But even with that, the Dolphin 42 balances incredible performance and cruising comfort in a very compact package; something that is not very easy in bluewater cruising. That's why it's designed using a foam core to make it lightweight by reducing weight wherever possible. This vessel will most likely never let you down if you want to circumnavigate the bluewater on a high-performance boat that is safe and comfortable.

So if you've been looking for a real sailing catamaran that doubles up as a very comfortable liveaboard sailboat , look no further than the Dolphin 42.

{{boat-info="/boats/catana-50"}}

Regarded as the best built and most stylish cruising multihull, the Catana 50 is a very huge catamaran sailboat. Measuring about 50 feet long with a beam of about 26 feet, this is an amazing catamaran that will test your sailing skills as a single sailor or if you're planning to sail shorthanded.

This boat is designed with a rig that gives you the option of using either a screecher or a self-tending jib. This may seem complex since the sheets are led to winches near each wheel while all other controls lead to a centerline winch that's located in the cockpit. But even with that, this sailboat can be easily tacked once on the course.

This is a real performance-oriented catamaran with efficient hulls and rigs allowing for top speed. This vessel is also designed with a long waterline and a subtle underwater shape at the bow to help in increasing volume while minimizing wave drag. The stern platforms can help in stretching the waterline length while also providing easy access from a dock or a dinghy. The board trunks are also very strong and sturdy to protect the integrity of the hulls if a collision occurs.

In essence, this is a very modern catamaran that's designed to safely make long-distance passages with ease. It is subdued in terms of styling but this doesn't mean that it falls short as far as performance is concerned.

Atlantic 42

{{boat-info="/boats/atlantic-42"}}

Designed in 1993, the A42 has cultivated a legion of fiercely loyal fans thanks to its efficiency and aesthetic. This is the smallest of the Atlantic cruising catamaran line and is hugely popular with sailors thanks to its ease of handling, ocean-going capabilities, and superb use of space. From the forward cockpit, pilothouse to the sleeping cabins, and brilliant galleys everything about this cat is a true classic.

Unlike most catamarans, the Atlantic 42 is designed with a waist-high cockpit that's located forward of the pilothouse just behind the mast. It brings forth a solid construction thanks to the large metal girder-like bearers that run across the bulkheads. This helps the vessel in having the utmost strength, better air circulation under the engine, and a high level of flexibility as far as the size of the engine and its positioning is concerned.

Initially, the boat's style and its outlook were considered conservative but it soon became clear that it is built of high-quality materials and to last. The internal construction of the boat is impressive, to say the least. The exterior looks very beautiful and perhaps much more beautiful than most boats today. Its large aft cabin accommodation is a top drawer while the space separating en suite heads and shower compartments are considered a bonus.

{{boat-info="/boats/fountaine-pajot-bahia-46"}}

If you were to board the French-built Fountaine Pajot Bahia 46, you'll agree that the high-quality of workmanship, layout, and efficient use of space is quite exciting, to say the least. This cat remains very popular among sailors thanks to its easy handling features and incredible performance under the sails. Well, this may not come as a surprise to many of us given that the Fountain Pajot is known for building some of the most remarkable cruising catamarans out there that it can be quite overwhelming to narrow down to a single vessel, but the Bahia 46 simply stands out.

This vessel is designed with hulls that are broader than those of many other catamarans. It's also designed with centerboards and daggerboards that are meant to enhance its performance. These are essential in minimizing draft while ensuring reliability, generous bilge, and in helping to protect the rudders and propellers.

This boat is big enough to manage any type of serious offshore sailing. This is one of the best cruising catamarans for anyone looking for the right vessel for long-distance sailing. This vessel has a very more generous rig than most cruising catamarans, which is essential in enhancing its performance. The six-post Bimini is very strong and clean and can perfectly hold dinghies.

In terms of its look, the Bahia 36 is designed with gorgeous lines with the deck and hulls sculpted with lines that add a touch of elegance to the overall look of an already excellent catamaran sailboat.

Gemini 105MC

{{boat-info="/boats/gemini-105mc"}}

Whether you're looking for a comfortable catamaran vessel to take you for a weekend sailing trip or a long sabbatical vacation on the oceans, the Gemini 105MC is a very satisfactory liveaboard catamaran vessel that offers spacious accommodation, thoughtful design, and a stable cruising platform for anyone who wants to have some good time on the water.

Designed by the legendary Tony Smith, this is somewhat a sailing cottage. Like a land cottage, it is cozy, comfortable, and very safe. This is essentially a 35 feet catamaran that offers great value for any sailing looking for a reasonably-priced catamaran sailboat for the weekend or holiday cruising.

This boat is designed with incredibly slim hulls, which are teardrop-shaped with flat bottoms and smaller wetted surface area. This is to ensure that drag is minimized and to lead to more leeway under sail. Each of the boat's hull is designed with a kick-up centerboard is of great importance in enhancing the vessel's windward pointing capability. This boat also has its rudders raised to enable it to seamlessly cruise in shallow waters where most vessels would otherwise run aground.

The eccentric narrow beam, which measures about 40% of the boat's length, is very different from today's 50%. However, its low center helps in keeping its stable, upright, and of course, safe.

Lagoon 450 F

{{boat-info="/boats/lagoon-450-f"}}

If you're looking for a catamaran sailboat that offers prestige at its peak, look no further than the Lagoon 450. This cat is widely known for offering an all-around comfort without compromising its beauty, spaciousness, class, and elegance. This is an elaborate French catamaran that brings to the table fantastic craftsmanship while leaving nothing to chance.

This is a very safe 45 feet catamaran that's not just comfortable but also very luxurious. The deck layout is centered on an amazing flybridge, which has been redesigned and redefined to offer both the traditional and modern outlook. You can very easily access the bridge, engine controls, steering station in a matter of seconds. As a result, this boat is efficiently designed to give you the ultimate control of almost every situation while on the water.

The spacious and luxurious interior of this boat is worth experiencing. The cabins and saloons are perfectly lit. We're talking about four to six cabins, eight to twelve berths, and up to four bathrooms. In essence, this boat can comfortably sleep eight to twelve people. This boat is designed to offer ultra-modern accommodations and amenities that come with little but amazing touches; all designed to make your life inside the catamaran enjoyable.

{{boat-info="/boats/gunboat-62"}}

An original performance catamaran cruiser from the iconic Gunboat manufacturer, the Gunboat 62 has truly cemented its place as one of the best catamaran sailboats to ever grace the oceans. Honestly speaking, this cat-inspired a whole range of other incredible boats including HH66 Catamaran and the Balance 526.

This is a boat that can perform admirably well in storms with a speed of over 35 knots despite being built using epoxy and E-glass with carbon-fiber structural components. It's designed with a distinct angular outline than most catamaran sailboats of its size and category. This is a vessel that was built for people looking to add more stuff and more gear for their voyages. In other words, you can have all the gear and equipment on this boat and still outperform a racing monohull of the same size.

Thanks to its lightweight feature, this vessel can sail upwind at speeds of over 17 knots and pinch up to 30 degrees. Just for comparison, the Gunboat 62 can tack through 95 degrees and still outperform the best racing monohulls. This boat is designed with a comfortable helm seat that offers 360-degree visibility as well as plenty of storage space, a functional working surface, and a luxurious cabin. Like many performance catamarans, the Gunboat 62 can attain about 20 knots if the conditions are right.

Privilege 615

{{boat-info="/boats/privilege-615"}}

Combining elegance, comfort, and style, the Privilege 615 is a lovely catamaran sailboat that seems to be always ready for a long offshore voyage. The roots of this incredible cat can be traced back to the 1980s when Philippe Jeantot opened up a boat-building company in France. As one of the best productions from the company, the privilege 615 sports a flybridge that comes complete with twin wheels, a sprawling sunbed, and other excellent features that will make your bluewater cruising a breeze.

Whether you want the charter version or a privately-owned version, the Privilege 615 is one of the most versatile catamaran sailboats. Step inside this vessel and you'll instantly notice the quality of the wood finish and the elegance of design. The advanced navigation station is not only ultra-modern but is perfectly stationed at a dedicated corner where you can control everything while still having a conversation with your friends and family.

This boat comes with multiple sleeping configurations to ensure that you and your guests can live aboard the boat for months on end. Although the boat appears like some sort of maze on the inside, you'll easily get used to it when you enter the forward section. That's not all; this boat has gorgeous lines that make the exterior beautiful just like the interior. Its sleek profile, incredible volume, and versatile interior make it one of the best catamaran sailboats out there.

There you have it; these are the best catamaran sailboats out there. It doesn't matter the one you choose, these cats will make your day out on the water and will serve you just right for your offshore voyages or for day sailing along the bays.

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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What Does a Catamaran Look Like Inside? (A Visual Guide)

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live on a boat? Catamarans offer an amazing opportunity to explore the open waters in style and comfort.

In this guide, we’ll take a look inside a modern catamaran and explore the features that make it so special.

From an open-plan layout to luxury bedrooms and kitchens, we’ll dive into the details of what it’s like to live on a catamaran.

We’ll also cover the flybridge, extended stays, and more.

So, let’s get started and take a look inside a catamaran!

Table of Contents

Short Answer

A catamaran typically has a spacious interior with two or three cabins, a galley, and a dining area.

Depending on the size of the catamaran, there may also be a navigation station, a wet bar, and even a lounge area.

The main living area is usually open and filled with natural light due to the large windows.

The cabins typically feature comfortable sleeping accommodations and plenty of storage for personal items.

Overview of Catamarans

Catamarans are a type of boat that have two or more hulls that are connected and outfitted with bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and living spaces.

They are typically used for recreational and leisure purposes, such as cruising, sailing, and fishing.

Catamarans are known for their spacious living areas that provide plenty of seating and an open-plan layout, allowing for plenty of natural light to enter the vessel.

Many catamarans also come with a flybridge, which offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area.

Inside, catamarans are typically designed with luxury and comfort in mind, making them perfect for extended stays on the water.

Some of the features of a catamaran include a large main salon, staterooms for sleeping, full-size galley, and plenty of storage.

Additionally, catamarans are usually equipped with the latest technologies, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking for a comfortable, modern, and luxurious experience on the water.

Open-Plan Layout & Seating

Catamarans are known for their spacious interior design, with most models featuring an open-plan layout and plenty of seating.

The main living area typically includes a comfortable seating area with plenty of cushions and plush pillows, as well as several tables for dining, entertaining, and working.

The seating area may also include a sofa, loveseat, or sectional for ultimate comfort.

Many catamarans also come with a bar or countertop for additional space for serving and entertaining guests.

In addition to the seating area, catamarans also typically include several loungers, day beds, and sun pads for relaxing and soaking up the sun.

The interior of the catamaran can be configured to fit the specific needs of the owners, offering plenty of options for seating and lounging.

The open-plan layout also allows for plenty of natural light to enter the space, providing a bright and airy feel.

The interior of the catamaran is often designed with a modern, minimalist aesthetic, offering a calming and inviting atmosphere.

Bedrooms & Bathrooms

When it comes to bedrooms and bathrooms, catamarans have plenty to offer.

Many catamarans feature spacious master suites with full-sized beds, ample closet space, and even en-suite bathrooms.

Some models may even include additional guest bedrooms, perfect for larger families or groups of friends.

In terms of bathrooms, many catamarans come equipped with a separate shower and toilet, as well as plenty of counter space and storage.

Some catamarans may even have two bathrooms, allowing for added convenience and increased privacy.

When it comes to bedrooms and bathrooms, catamarans have something for everyone.

From spacious master suites to additional guest bedrooms, these vessels provide plenty of space and luxury for extended trips on the water.

With a wide variety of designs and layouts, its easy to find a catamaran that suits your needs and lifestyle.

Kitchens & Living Spaces

When it comes to the interior of a catamaran, the kitchen and living spaces are the heart of the vessel.

A catamaran typically features a fully equipped kitchen with plenty of counter space and storage, equipped with modern appliances and amenities such as a range, oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher.

For those who love to cook, a galley kitchen is the perfect place to whip up delicious meals while enjoying the views.

The living area of a catamaran is designed with luxury and comfort in mind.

With plenty of seating and open-plan layouts, its easy to find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Many catamarans also feature a cozy lounge area with comfortable couches and chairs, perfect for entertaining guests and family.

And with plenty of windows to let in natural light, the interior of a catamaran feels bright and airy.

The flybridge on a catamaran offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area, making it the perfect spot for relaxation and sightseeing.

With plenty of seating and space for a small bar, its the ideal spot to watch the sunset or stargaze with friends.

And with its open-air design, the flybridge also offers plenty of natural ventilation, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a cool breeze on a hot summer day.

When it comes to catamarans, one of the most distinctive features of their design is the flybridge.

This area is located above the main living area and provides stunning 360-degree views of the surroundings.

It’s the perfect spot for taking in the sunset, star-gazing, or just enjoying the view of the horizon.

It’s also a great place to socialize with friends and family while out on the water.

The flybridge is typically equipped with comfortable seating, a sun shade, and even a sink or refrigerator to make your time on the water more enjoyable.

Depending on the size of the catamaran, the flybridge may also include a steering station and instrumentation, making it the ideal spot to pilot the vessel.

Luxury & Comfort

When it comes to luxury and comfort, catamarans dont disappoint.

The interior of a catamaran is typically designed with both of these features in mind.

From spacious living areas with plenty of seating to fully-equipped kitchens and bedrooms, catamarans are perfect for extended stays on the water.

The open-plan layout of a catamaran ensures that there is plenty of room for everyone to move around and relax.

The large windows provide plenty of natural light, making the space feel even more open and inviting.

The seating areas are designed for maximum comfort, with plush sofas and armchairs providing a relaxing spot to spend time with family and friends.

Most catamarans also come with a flybridge, which offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area.

This is the perfect spot to take in some breathtaking views while you relax in the sun.

Catamarans provide plenty of luxury and comfort for all onboard.

Whether youre looking for the perfect spot to spend a weekend away from it all or an extended stay on the water, a catamarans interior offers the perfect balance of luxury and comfort.

Extended Stays

When it comes to extended stays on the water, catamarans offer unparalleled levels of luxury and comfort.

With spacious living areas, plenty of seating, and an open-plan layout, they provide the perfect environment for long-term relaxation and exploration.

The bedrooms are typically outfitted with comfortable beds and linens, while the bathrooms feature all of the amenities of a typical home.

The kitchen is usually well-equipped with all of the appliances necessary for meal preparation, and the living area often includes a large flat-screen television and comfortable furniture.

The wide windows let in plenty of natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.

This bright atmosphere is further enhanced by the presence of a flybridge, which offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area.

This allows guests to take in the beauty and serenity of their environment, no matter where they may be.

In addition to the luxury and comfort of the interior, catamarans also provide an array of recreational activities for those who wish to stay longer.

Many of these vessels come equipped with a variety of water toys, such as kayaks, paddleboards, and even small motorboats.

There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, and exploring the local area.

All of these activities can be enjoyed from the comfort of the catamaran, making them the perfect choice for extended stays on the water.

Final Thoughts

With its open-plan layouts, luxurious bedrooms and bathrooms, spacious living areas, and 360-degree views from the flybridge, a catamaran is the perfect vessel for extended stays on the water.

Whether you’re looking for a fun day-trip or an exciting long-term adventure, a catamaran is sure to provide you with the ultimate experience.

Now that you know what a catamaran looks like inside, why not plan your own getaway today?

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

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Best Catamarans Under 50 Feet (With Pictures and Prices)

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

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

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

Table of Contents

What Is a Catamaran?

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

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

What Are the Best Catamarans Between 40 and 50 Feet?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nautitech 46

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

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

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

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

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

Fountaine Pajot Elba 45

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seawind 1370

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Catamaran boat interior reviews and pictures

Nov 16, 2020

less than a min

Have you ever been curious about a catamaran interior? How does everything fit in there to create comfort and even luxury and still allow catamarans to look so slim on the outside?

Here are some catamaran interior reviews to help you create a general picture of what goes on inside these peculiar vessels.

Leopard 58 catamaran interior

The Leopard 58 catamaran boat is quite a large and luxurious vessel. It has been refurbished to integrate 3 cabins, an open saloon, and a full-size owner’s suite. So, in total, this boat can accommodate 8 guests into 4 cabins. It also includes a hydraulic dinghy platform, a large flybridge where 10 people can be seated, a lounge bar and galley as well as an ample forward cockpit.

Solarwave 64 catamaran interior

The Solarwave 64 is a hybrid-yacht designed for long-range solar-cruising. It is a luxurious boat that uses only solar energy and does not need a diesel-engine to start. Its battery-capacity is designed for more than a night of permanent cruising.

The interior of this boat features polished dark wood and luxurious kitchen appliances, in addition to soft cushions for seating. The interior of the cabins follows the same language by using the same cherry colored wood as the kitchen. The ceilings remain crisp white and offer a sense of peace and serenity, by also making the entire internal space seem larger. The contrast between the wood and the while parts of the boat creates an elegant setting that can appeal to anyone’s tastes.

Lagoon 50 catamaran interior

The Lagoon 50 is a chartered catamaran boat that can be used by families and groups of friends. It includes 4+1 cabins and 4+1 toilets. This catamaran interior is clean and crisp. It shows hints of a Scandinavian style decor, with stainless steel appliances.

The Lagoon 50 interior is surrounded by windows and gains plenty of natural light that creates a peaceful atmosphere within the space. The sitting area features white fabric cushions that complement the sails. The cabins showcase hints of turquoise in the bedding which combined with the views from the portholes create a harmonious beach-like setting.

Leopard 50 catamaran interior

The Leopard 50 catamaran boat was re-designed to replace the Leopard 48, an award-winning boat in 2012. This is a cruising catamaran that includes a wonderful flybridge lounge.

This catamaran interior is quite modern and futuristic. It appeals to a new generation through the usage of spotlights and under-furniture LEDs that make this boat look like it jumped right off a utopic movie. The cabins show a generous size and the color palette displays a refined taste through shades of white, gray, and light brown wood.

Privilege 580 Circumnavigator catamaran interior

The Privilege 580 Circumnavigator catamaran interior is a piece of art. Its minimalistic design is complemented by a cool palette that includes shades of white, turquoise, gray, and cool brown for the wood. Everything blends together into a calming collage that tells a story: That of a charming vacation at sea. The communal spaces are fitted with anything you might need in a home. A special designer touch can be seen in the integration of orange throw pillow and turquoise table clothes that add a splash of warmth to a very clean interior.

Compare these boats on TheBoatDB, your one place where all your boating life can be stored.

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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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12 thoughts on “40ft Catamaran Models Comparisons”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We will look into it for you

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This New 79-Foot Sailing Catamaran Is Like a Pied-à-Terre for the High Seas

The six-stateroom "spirit of ponant" will debut in corsica this summer., rachel cormack.

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Based on Lagoon’s Seventy 7 model, the newcomer was built in Bordeaux, France. The cat features six generous staterooms for up to 12 guests and cabins for four crew. Ponant says seafarers can expect personalized service, including a private chef, tailored activities, and other high-end touches.

 “The concept and design of this Lagoon Seventy 7 yacht has been praised by everyone in the industry, won over by the spacious interior and exterior areas,” Guillaume Le Brec, the experienced skipper in charge of this project at Ponant, said in a statement. “Guests will really appreciate the high-end finishings as much as her exceptional sailing qualities.” 

Furthermore, the itineraries are completely customizable, too. The inaugural seven-night roundtrip voyages from Bonifacio can be tweaked to the traveler’s interests, with the captain offering recommendations. After a stint in Corsica, Spirit of Ponant will cruise around Mahé, a.k.a. the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago, for the winter season.

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Marinas, dams and a bridge hit after 26 barges break loose, float uncontrolled down ohio river.

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Pittsburgh's Public Safety Office said 26 barges broke loose and were floating uncontrolled down the Ohio River late Friday night. Marinas, dams and at least one bridge have been hit since then as officials work to secure the unmanned barges. One barge is still unaccounted for as of Sunday.

Most of the barges were loaded with dry cargo, like coal, and three of the barges were empty. There have been no reports of injuries, but Peggy's Harbor marina on the city's North Side sustained "extensive damage," officials said.

According to our partners at the Trib, another marina just downriver of Peggy’s, Branchport Boat Club, lost nearly 90 boat slips because of the runaway barges.

Eleven barges were pinned against the river bank near Brunot Island. Fourteen more continued down the river. Images posted online show several barges resting along the side of the dam.

On Saturday, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District said tugboats have secured the 11 barges at Brunot Island. Nine of the barges stopped at Emsworth Lock and Dam. Four barges continued past the dam, going over the Dashields Locks and Dams in Moon before being retrieved by tugboat as well.

Carol Vernon, a representative for the Army Corps of Engineers, told Pittsburgh’s Action News 4 that one of the barges sank.

"The navigation channel will reopen as soon as it can be done safely," the Pittsburgh office said on Facebook.

A barge hit the Sewickley Bridge Saturday afternoon, closing it as crews inspect for any damage, according to PennDOT spokesperson Steve Cowan. Moon Township police have since said the bridge has reopened.

Officials with Campbell Transportation, which owns the barges, said the company is investigating how the barges broke free.

“The incident occurred under high water conditions on the rivers, resulting in strong currents due to flooding in the area,” Gary Statler, Campbell Transportation's senior vice president for river operations, said in a statement. He added that the company’s “immediate priority is ensuring public safety and minimizing any potential environmental impact.”

Statler said Campbell Transportation was actively working with the Coast Guard, state police, PennDOT and local agencies to assess the situation. The Army Corps of Engineers is the lead agency for the response.

Discussing the damage from the barges, Branchport Boat Club manager Tony Ravida told the Trib, “It is like losing a member of the family. Now, we won’t be able to open for business this year.”

Preliminary indication shows no damage was sustained at the Emsworth Lock and Dam, but that’s not the case after some of the barges caused damage to two local marinas.

"Hopefully, once they get rebuilt, I’ll come back, but for the time being, I'm not sure what we’ll do," said Liam Storey. He says he’s been boating at Peggy’s for years, dating back to when his grandparents owned a boat and docked it there. He said his heart breaks for the family business.

"Because they’re very nice people, family-oriented, family-owned marina down here, they’re always willing to help out with anything, any people's boats that have problems on the river," Storey said.

Folks were surveying the damage left behind by the barges, down at the marinas and out at the Locks and Dam facilities.

"I couldn’t believe that it was you know hung up on the dam like that there I was surprised that the way of the water brought it over. I seen it on Facebook that the barge was stuck on the dam so I figured I was eating dinner up the road, I figured I‘d come down and take a look," said Coraopolis native Jason Crooks.

Crooks says he’s glad the Sewickley Bridge did not sustain damage or shutdown because that would have been catastrophic to the area.

For now, the search for the last barge continues, but the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers told Pittsburgh’s Action News 4, the recovery team cannot safely search for the barge as long as the Ohio River remains elevated. However, the team does believe the barge is located between the Emsworth and Dashields Locks and Dams.

Both the West End and McKees Rocks bridges had closed Friday night due to the loose barges but reopened shortly afterward.

This incident follows Thursday’s and Friday’s storms that saw floodwaters return to the Pittsburgh region. Combined with last week’s heavy rain, this is Pittsburgh's wettest start to spring on record, according to the National Weather Service.

This is not the first time barges have flown down Pittsburgh’s rivers uncontrolled, though the potential risks to bridge security and river transportation have come under increased scrutiny following the deadly collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge last month.

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AP PHOTOS: Aboard France’s aging nuclear submarines — old boats but new missions

Sailors prepare a French Rubis-class nuclear powered submarine to participate in NATO’s upcoming Neptune Strike training exercise at the Toulon naval base in southern France, Monday, April 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

The Associated Press got a rare tour of the veteran nuclear-powered attack submarine as it prepared for an escort mission of France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier, which is set to take part in a NATO operation in the Mediterranean. (AP Video: John Leicester) See photos: http://apne.ws/0A79txW

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Sailors prepare a French Rubis-class submarine at the Toulon naval base in southern France, Monday, April 15, 2024. The nuclear powered submarine will be guarding France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier during training exercises dubbed Neptune Strike in the Mediterranean with the 32-nation NATO military alliance. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

A sailor descends into a French Rubis-class submarine at the Toulon naval base in southern France, Monday, April 15, 2024. The nuclear powered submarine will be guarding France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier during training exercises dubbed Neptune Strike in the Mediterranean with the 32-nation NATO military alliance. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

The wall of a French Rubis-class submarine is pictured at the Toulon naval base in southern France, Monday, April 15, 2024. The nuclear powered submarine will be guarding France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier during training exercises dubbed Neptune Strike in the Mediterranean with the 32-nation NATO military alliance. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

Equipment and food to be stored away is pictured on a French Rubis-class submarine at the Toulon naval base in southern France, Monday, April 15, 2024. The nuclear powered submarine will be guarding France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier during training exercises dubbed Neptune Strike in the Mediterranean with the 32-nation NATO military alliance. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

A poster is pictured on a French Rubis-class submarine at the Toulon naval base in southern France, Monday, April 15, 2024. The nuclear powered submarine will be guarding France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier during training exercises dubbed Neptune Strike in the Mediterranean with the 32-nation NATO military alliance. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

A sailor prepares a French Rubis-class submarine at the Toulon naval base in southern France, Monday, April 15, 2024. The nuclear powered submarine will be guarding France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier during training exercises dubbed Neptune Strike in the Mediterranean with the 32-nation NATO military alliance. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

A sailor disembarks a French Rubis-class submarine at the Toulon naval base in southern France, Monday, April 15, 2024. The nuclear powered submarine will be guarding France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier during training exercises dubbed Neptune Strike in the Mediterranean with the 32-nation NATO military alliance. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

A rope secures a French Rubis-class submarine at the Toulon naval base in southern France, Monday, April 15, 2024. The nuclear powered submarine will be guarding France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier during training exercises dubbed Neptune Strike in the Mediterranean with the 32-nation NATO military alliance. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

A French Rubis-class submarine is pictured at the Toulon naval base in southern France, Monday, April 15, 2024. The nuclear powered submarine will be guarding France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier during training exercises dubbed Neptune Strike in the Mediterranean with the 32-nation NATO military alliance. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

TOULON, France (AP) — Once again, the oceans beckon for France’s veteran nuclear-powered attack submarines.

The Associated Press got rare access aboard a French navy Rubis-class submarine as it was being readied for another mission in sprawling naval dockyards in the Mediterranean port of Toulon.

France’s fleets of nuclear-powered submarines are shrouded in secrecy. The French military would not allow this submarine to be identified by name. A naval security officer scrutinized all the images AP journalists took aboard the vessel and asked that some be deleted or cropped to avoid showing submarine technology and security measures at the docks.

Aboard the cramped vessel, submariners crammed into the confines of a small compartment and carried out maintenance work. Others loaded supplies aboard, carrying boxes down narrow gangways. In the control room, crew members hung strips of lights amid the spaghetti of cabling and equipment.

This vessel is one of three Rubis-class attack submarines that France bases in Toulon. They carry a crew of 70. Powered by their nuclear reactor, they don’t need to refuel often and can patrol the oceans for months on end.

The Rubis can carry anti-submarine and anti-ship torpedoes and anti-ship missiles. Their jobs can include protecting France’s larger nuclear-armed submarines. France has four of those.

On its upcoming mission, this submarine will be escorting France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier as it takes part in an operation in the Mediterranean with the NATO military alliance . The French carrier strike group will be under direct NATO command during the operation, which is a first.

Cmdr. Manuel Bienvenu, the submarine’s chief officer, said his vessel will soon be leaving port to join the strike force. But he said the submarine could also be deployed to other missions if needs be.

“The international situation can change, can evolve rapidly, including during the mission. And we are capable of responding to all demands made of us,” he said.

France’s navy is replacing its Rubis-class submarines with more modern and more heavily armed nuclear-powered submarines. The first of the new Suffren class of attack submarines has been in service since June 2022. The second, the Duguay Trouin, went into service this month. Another four Suffren-class submarines are to join the fleet by 2030.

They will replace the remaining three Rubis-class vessels, which were built in the 1980s. Three Rubis-class submarines have already been retired — the Saphir in 2019, the Rubis in 2022 and the Casabianca in 2023.

A sailor descends into a French Rubis-class submarine at the Toulon naval base in southern France, April 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

Sailors prepare a French Rubis-class submarine at the Toulon naval base in southern France, April 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

The wall of a French Rubis-class submarine is pictured at the Toulon naval base in southern France, April 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

Sailors prepare a French Rubis-class submarine at the Toulon naval base in southern France, Monday, April 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

Equipment and food to be stored away is pictured on a French Rubis-class submarine at the Toulon naval base in southern France, April 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

A poster is pictured on a French Rubis-class submarine at the Toulon naval base in southern France, Monday, April 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

A sailor prepares a French Rubis-class submarine at the Toulon naval base in southern France, Monday, April 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

A sailor disembarks a French Rubis-class submarine at the Toulon naval base in southern France, April 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

A French Rubis-class submarine is pictured at the Toulon naval base in southern France, April 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

AP PHOTOS: Aboard France's aging nuclear submarines — old boats but new missions

TOULON, France -- Once again, the oceans beckon for France ’s veteran nuclear-powered attack submarines.

The Associated Press got rare access aboard a French navy Rubis-class submarine as it was being readied for another mission in sprawling naval dockyards in the Mediterranean port of Toulon.

France’s fleets of nuclear-powered submarines are shrouded in secrecy. The French military wouldn't allow this submarine to be identified by name. A naval security officer scrutinized all the images AP journalists took aboard the vessel and asked that some be deleted or cropped to avoid showing submarine technology and security measures at the docks.

Aboard the cramped vessel, submariners crammed into the confines of a small compartment and carried out maintenance work. Others loaded supplies aboard, carrying boxes down narrow gangways. In the control room, crew members hung strips of lights amid the spaghetti of cabling and equipment.

This vessel is one of three Rubis-class attack submarines that France bases in Toulon. They carry a crew of 70. Powered by their nuclear reactor, they don’t need to refuel often and can patrol the oceans for months on end.

The Rubis can carry anti-submarine and anti-ship torpedoes and anti-ship missiles. Their jobs can include protecting France’s larger nuclear-armed submarines. France has four of those.

On its upcoming mission, this submarine will be escorting France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier as it takes part in an operation in the Mediterranean with the NATO military alliance. The French carrier strike group will be under direct NATO command during the operation, which is a first.

Cmdr. Manuel Bienvenu, the submarine’s chief officer, said that his vessel would soon be leaving port to join the strike force. But he said the submarine could also be deployed to other missions if need-be.

“The international situation can change, can evolve rapidly, including during the mission. And we are capable of responding to all demands made of us,” he said.

France’s navy is replacing its Rubis-class submarines with more modern and more heavily armed nuclear-powered submarines. The first of the new Suffren class of attack submarines has been in service since June 2022. The second, the Duguay Trouin, went into service this month. Another four Suffren-class submarines will join the fleet by 2030.

They will replace the remaining three Rubis-class vessels, which were built in the 1980s. Three Rubis-class submarines have already been retired — the Saphir in 2019, the Rubis in 2022 and the Casabianca in 2023.

This story has been corrected to show that the dateline is Toulon, not Toulouse.

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UN refugee agency tells Cyprus to stick to the law in its efforts at sea to thwart refugee boats

The Associated Press

April 19, 2024, 1:25 PM

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NICOSIA, Cyprus (AP) — The United Nations’ refugee agency said Friday that Cypriot efforts at sea to stop numerous Syrian refugee-laden boats departing Lebanon from reaching the European Union-member island nation mustn’t contravene international human rights laws or put passengers at risk.

Cypriot authorities have reportedly dispatched police patrol vessels just outside Lebanese territorial waters to thwart boat loads of Syrian refugees from reaching the island about 110 miles (180 kilometers) away.

The Cypriot government says a crumbling Lebanese economy coupled with the uncertainty brought on by the Israeli-Hamas war and the recent tit-for-tat strikes between Israel and Lebanon has resulted in a huge number of rickety boats overloaded with migrants – almost all Syrians – reaching the island.

Earlier this week, Cypriot patrol craft reportedly intercepted five boats carrying hundreds of Syrian refugees and migrants. The boats turned back and the passengers disembarked safely.

UNCHR spokesperson in Cyprus Emilia Strovolidou told The Associated Press that according to testimonies of passengers’ relatives, Cypriot authorities “forcibly pushed back” the boats using “violence” and “techniques to destabilize the boat.”

Strovolidou said the U.N. agency was “not in a position to confirm” those testimonies.

A Cypriot senior official strenuously denied that any coercion was used in any way to get the boats to return to Lebanon, insisting that the Cypriot government doesn’t engage in any pushbacks and acts “fully in accordance with international law.”

The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he cannot disclose details of ongoing operations, dismissed as “lies” allegations that Cypriot authorities resorted to using any type of force.

Strovolidou said Cyprus is also bound by international law not to return individuals to any country which could in turn deport them to their homeland where they could be at risk of harm or persecution.

The Lebanon office of UNHCR said in a statement that it was aware of more than 220 people who had disembarked from the returned boats in northern Lebanon on Wednesday. Of those, 110 were refugees registered with UNHCR and all of them were released, it said.

Saadeddine Shatila, executive director of the Cedar Center for Legal Studies, a Lebanon-based human rights organization that tracks migration issues, said his group had information that the Lebanese army had detained and possibly deported Syrians from at least one of the returning boats who weren’t registered with UNCHR.

The Lebanese army has in the past occasionally deported all Syrians aboard seized migrant boats, including registered refugees, a practice that drew an outcry from human rights organizations.

Lebanese political officials have been calling for years for the international community to either resettle the refugees in other countries or assist in returning them to Syria, and security forces have stepped up deportations of Syrians over the past year. Some of the deportees have reportedly faced detention and torture upon their return.

The Cypriot official said the Cyprus government in coordination with the European Commission is preparing an additional financial support package for Lebanon to help the country stop migrant boat departures. He said that support is conditional on Lebanon’s effectiveness in stopping migrant boat departures.

Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and European Commission Chief Ursula von der Leyen are due in Beirut May 2 to discuss the aid package.

The official said people smugglers are exploiting people’s fears over the ongoing conflicts in the region and are brazenly advertising in Lebanese coffee shops available seats on boats to Cyprus for $3,000 a head – a bargain compared to the $7,000 required for a trip to Italy.

Cyprus will convene a meeting of other EU countries next month to elicit additional support for its initiative for the bloc to formally redesignate some areas of Syria as safe zones. The Czech Republic and Denmark are behind the idea.

According to the Cypriot official, doing so wouldn’t mean that Syrians hailing from those safe zones are deported back to their country, but they would lose any allowances, benefits and the right to work, creating a disincentive to others to come to Cyprus.

He said Denmark is already implementing such a policy on its own and it’s a measure that the Cypriot government could consider if arrivals continue to increase.

Sewell reported from Beirut.

Follow AP’s global migration coverage at: https://apnews.com/hub/migration

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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