outremer catamaran reviews

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

First look: Outremer 52 – serious adventure catamaran

• Toby Heppell
• July 24, 2023

If you’re after a serious round-the-world adventure and have the budget for a boat like this, the Outremer 52 could well be the cat you're looking for

Product Overview

Multihulls are clearly booming. They’ve been popular as charter boats for a long time, thanks to the sheer amount of real estate they offer, and the appeal of life on an even keel. The high-volume charter boats haven’t, however, done much to improve multihulls’ reputation for aesthetics or performance.

Outremer catamarans are cut from a different cloth. Light and fast, they are aimed at performance cruising with double-figure speeds, while still being comfortable to live aboard and without being extreme machines. They are serious blue-water cruising boats and are increasingly popular, albeit at a price that puts them on a par with the priciest top-end luxury monohulls.

French boat builder and owner of several mulithull brands, Grand Large Yachting has pooled serious knowledge, design and build experience to create what it deems to be an ideal family-sized fast catamaran for world voyaging. Outremer as a brand focuses on lightweight designs.

A proper chart table allows for watch-keeping below

The Outremer 52 combines the proven features of the 51 (over 100 built) with the fresh looks and success of the recently launched 55, which won a European Yacht of the Year award last year.

Outremer is aiming for 10-12 knot average speeds for this new model: ‘250 miles a day is enough for comfort and performance,’ said Outremer CEO, Xavier Desmarest, at the unveiling at Cannes Yachting Festival.

Its sister company, Gunboat, was involved to help lighten the structures while increasing stiffness, including the use of carbon bulkheads. The weight saved in structure allows more volume with slightly wider upper parts of the hull, and openings and glass surfaces have been increased.

In comparison to the 51 it is actually slightly heavier, but carries more sail area. VPLP, which spent two-and-a-half years developing the design with Franck Darnet and Patrick Le Quément, expects the performance to be similar if not slightly better than the 51. Sightlines and communication are also improved, with forward visibility from the bar area and saloon seating, and there are four opening ports in the saloon for ventilation.

Wheel and tiller options are offered or, uniquely, a choice of both on either side, while mechanical steering delivers the sporty feel for which the brand is renowned. The layout sees three or four cabins and three different ‘moods’ or styles. And, in line with its larger sister, a utility cabin option is offered so owners can choose an office, workroom, laundry or kids’ cabin.

Hull windows have been enlarged for panoramic views

The standard boat will have diesel engines, but the Grande Motte yard insists the yacht’s ability to sail well means these will be little used. It does already offer electric propulsion alternatives and – as seen on Roland Jourdain’s new 5X We Explore, which uses lots of flax fibre – it is increasingly building with recycled or recyclable materials.

The 51 has the potential to mount 2,100W solar panels, an option all owners are reportedly choosing. Outremer is continuing to increase its production capacity to try to meet the insatiable demand for its performance catamarans, but insists it will maintain its direct customer contact approach. The first boat has now been launched, although there is a four-year wait for those ordering now.

If you’re after a serious round-the-world adventure and have the budget for a boat like this, you’ll cover the ground at serious speed and in real comfort.

Outremer 52 specifications

LOA: 15.73m / 51ft 7in LWL: 15.71m / 51ft 7in Beam: 7.89m / 25ft 11in Draught: 1.07m / 3ft 6in Displacement: 12,800kg / 28,219lbs Mainsail: 95m2 / 1,023 sq ft Genoa: 60 m² / 646 sq ft Selftacking jib: 45 m² (484 ft²) Price: (ex VAT) €1.23m (sailaway €1.55m) Builder: catamaran-outremer.com

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

First look: Outremer 52

• Toby Hodges
• January 9, 2023

The new Outremer 52 takes on all the knowledge from the companies previous successes, the Outremer 51 and 55

Product Overview

Grand Large Yachting has pooled serious knowledge, design and build experience to create what it deems to be an ideal family-sized fast catamaran for world voyaging. The Outremer 52 combines the proven features of the 51 (over 100 built) with the fresh looks and success of the recently launched 55, which won a European Yacht of the Year award last year.

Outremer is targeting 10-12 knot average speeds for this new model: “250 miles a day is enough for comfort and performance,” said Outremer CEO, Xavier Desmarest, at the Cannes Yachting Festival unveiling.

Its sister company, Gunboat, was involved to help lighten the structures while increasing stiffness, including the use of carbon bulkheads. The weight saved in structure allows more volume with slightly wider upper parts of the hull, and openings and glass surfaces have been increased. In comparison to the 51 it is actually slightly heavier, but carries more sail area.

VPLP, which spent two and a half years developing the design with Franck Darnet and Patrick Le Quément, expects the performance to be similar if not slightly better than the 51. Sightlines and communication are also improved, with forward visibility from the bar area and saloon seating, and there are four opening ports in the saloon for ventilation.

Wheel and tiller options are offered or, uniquely, a choice of both on either side, while mechanical steering should bring the sporty feel for which the brand is renowned. The layout sees three or four cabins and three different ‘moods’ or styles. And, like on the larger sister, a utility cabin option is offered so owners can choose an office, workroom, laundry or kids’ cabin.

The standard boat will have diesel engines, but the Grande Motte yard insists the yacht’s ability to sail well means these will be little used. It does already offer electric propulsion alternatives and – as seen on Roland Jourdain’s new 5X We Explore, which uses lots of flax fibre – it is increasingly building with recycled or recyclable materials. The 51 has the potential to mount 2,100W solar panels, an option all owners are reportedly choosing.

Outremer is continuing to increase its production capacity to try to meet the insatiable demand for its performance catamarans, but insists it will maintain its direct customer contact approach. The first boat is in build and will debut at the International Multihull Show in April 2023.

Outremer 52 specifications

LOA: 15.73m / 51ft 7in Beam: 7.89m / 25ft 11in Draught: 1.07m-2.30m / 3ft 6in-7ft 7in Displacement: 12,500kg / 27,558lb Price: ex VAT €1.2m Builder: catamaran-outremer.com

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Outremer 51 Review – The Ultimate Cruiser’s Dream Boat?

The Outremer 51 catamaran has captured the attention of sailing enthusiasts with its blend of speed, performance, and liveaboard comfort.

As a revamp of the beloved 49-footer, this French-built vessel extends its predecessor’s legacy by offering not just additional space but also various features that have solidified its place in the bluewater cruising world.

With its notable design, it promises an almost formidable presence on the water, bringing forward an air of elegance and style that reflects the sophistication of its owners.

Whether you are eyeing the second-hand market or contemplating a fresh purchase, the Outremer 51 is lauded for its ability to maintain value and deliver exhilarating sailing experiences.

Known for consistently hitting the sweet spot between a comfortable ride and adrenaline-pumping speeds, this catamaran could well be the vessel to transport you across seas with both grace and pace.

In this Outremer 51 review, I unpack what makes her stand out, providing insights into its design, amenities, and overall seaworthiness.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• The Outremer 51 merges swift sailing with liveaboard luxury.
• Advanced navigational tech ensures a safe and enjoyable journey.
• Meticulous design contributes to a high resale value.

Design and Construction

As you explore the Outremer 51, you’ll notice that it’s a masterful blend of speed, functionality, and beauty—a true testament to modern catamaran design. Let’s dive into the specifics that set this vessel apart.

Hull and Deck

The Outremer 51’s hull and deck showcase a meticulous design approach aimed at achieving top-notch performance without compromising on durability. Axe bows dominate the front, enhancing buoyancy and handling in heavy seas, while hard angles on the transoms contribute to the overall hydrodynamic efficiency. The structure is composed of fiberglass with a foam core, selected for its optimal strength-to-weight ratio . You’ll find the deck is laid out intuitively, with all sailing controls within reach, enabling easy single or short-handed sailing.

Interior Layout

Your comfort at sea is paramount, and the Outremer 51’s interior layout is designed with this in mind. The saloon and cabins are awash with natural light , thanks to the ample hatches and windows. The interior is a second-generation design by Franck Darnet, maintaining a stylish look with practical fixtures. The Outremer 51 offers a balanced distribution of space, allowing for spacious living areas , efficient navigation stations , and cozy sleeping quarters . The cabins are equipped with sufficient storage and amenities to ensure a pleasant experience during extended ocean passages.

Performance

When it comes to slicing through the water with ease, the Outremer 51 caters to your need for pace combined with the comfort of a cruising yacht. Let’s look into what makes this catamaran a swift and reliable option for your sea-faring adventures.

Sailing Capabilities

The Outremer 51 is designed to excel in various wind conditions thanks to its efficient hull design and sail plan. With low wind resistance and high stability , this catamaran gets up to speed rapidly, even in light breezes. Its extended bows increase buoyancy and contribute to its ability to cover distances swiftly, as its performance-optimized shape effortlessly translates the wind’s power into motion. Imagine carving through the ocean confidently, whether you’re navigating tight maneuvers or embarking on long passages.

Engine and Maneuverability

Powered by twin engines, the Outremer 51 is as capable under power as it is under sail. These engines not only provide redundancy but also ensure that you have sufficient maneuverability in marinas or when the wind drops. The catamaran’s design allows for responsive handling, giving you peace of mind as you make those tight turns and dock with precision. The thoughtful placement of winches and controls makes handling the Outremer 51 intuitive, turning complex maneuvers into simple, fluid motions.

Living Aboard

Embarking on an adventure with the Outremer 51, you’ll discover that it isn’t just about the journey – your comfort on the open seas is paramount. Here are key insights on what makes living aboard the Outremer 51 a breeze.

Comfort Features

Imagine yourself lounging in a spacious salon with panoramic windows that offer an unobstructed view of the ocean’s horizon. Your living space is bathed in natural light, making it a soothing place to relax. Now, picture a cozy owner’s hull on one side of the catamaran, complete with a queen-sized bed, private head, and shower. The guest hull on the opposite side mirrors this comfort, ensuring that both you and your guests enjoy privacy and comfort after a long day of sailing.

Storage Solutions

Navigating storage on a catamaran can often be a tricky affair, but not on the Outremer 51. You’ll find ample storage space cleverly integrated throughout the vessel. Clever cabinetry , hidden compartments, and thoughtful shelving mean that every item has its place, whether it’s your sailing gear, provisions for your voyage, or personal belongings. Not only is the storage practical but it’s also designed to be easily accessible, ensuring a clutter-free living environment that enhances your onboard experience.

Electronics and Navigation

In navigating the open waters, your Outremer 51 is equipped with state-of-the-art electronics and navigation systems that ensure a confident and safe journey. The communication equipment onboard means you’re never out of touch, no matter how far offshore you venture.

Navigation Systems

Your Outremer 51’s helm is thoughtfully laid out with easy-to-read displays and intuitive controls. Here’s what you’ll typically find:

• GPS Chartplotters: These provide accurate and real-time positioning information that’s crucial for charting your course.
• Autopilot: A reliable system that automates steering, which is especially helpful during long passages.
• Radar: Essential for low-visibility conditions, helping you spot vessels, buoys, and other potential hazards early on.
• Wind Instruments: These supply real-time data on wind speed and direction, allowing for precise sail adjustments.

Communication Equipment

Staying connected is vital, whether it’s for safety, weather updates, or just to share your adventures. Your catamaran typically includes:

• VHF Radio: For short-range communication, essential for talking with marinas, bridge operators, and nearby boats.
• Satellite Phone: Crucial for offshore passages where cell service is non-existent; this keeps you linked up with the rest of the world.
• AIS (Automatic Identification System): This not only lets you see other vessels but also lets others see you, which is vital for collision avoidance.

Modern sailors treasure the balance between disconnecting from everyday life and staying safe at sea. Your Outremer 51 strikes this balance perfectly, providing you with peace of mind to truly enjoy your ocean escapades.

Safety and Maintenance

Ensuring your Outremer 51 remains a haven of safety and in prime condition demands attention to detail. Let’s unpack what equipment you need and the maintenance tasks that’ll keep you sailing smoothly.

Safety Equipment

Before you set sail, double-check that your Outremer 51 is equipped with the following essential safety gear:

• Life rafts : Enough for all crew members, serviced annually.
• Fire extinguishers : Strategically placed and checked regularly.
• EPIRB : Registered and tested for an emergency signal.
• Flares : A variety of handheld and aerial, within the expiry date.
• Life jackets : One for each person aboard, with lights and whistles.
• Man Overboard (MOB) equipment : Includes recovery system and throwable flotation devices.
• Bilge pumps : Both manual and automatic, inspected frequently.
• Navigation lights : Confirmed for correct operation before departure.
• VHF radio : With DSC capability, battery checked and charged.
• First aid kit : Fully stocked per the number of crew and voyage length.

Maintenance Checklist

Regular maintenance ensures your catamaran sails at peak performance and stays reliable. Here’s a brief checklist to guide you:

• Hull inspection : Look for any signs of damage or osmosis every 6 months.
• Rigging : Inspect shrouds, stays, and fittings annually for wear and corrosion.
• Sails : Examine for tears, abrasions, and UV damage, especially after heavy use.
• Engines and generators : Perform oil changes, filter replacements, and belt checks as per manufacturer’s specifications.
• Winches : Service them annually, checking for smooth operation and lubricating as needed.
• Safety gear : Verify expiration dates and functionality bi-annually.
• Seacocks and through-hulls : Inspect and lubricate every 6 months to ensure they operate freely.
• Electrical systems: Check connections and battery levels and charge regularly.
• Freshwater system : Clean and treat the water tank and check for leaks periodically.
• Bilges : Ensure they’re kept clean and free of debris to prevent clogging of pumps.

Pros & Cons

Before diving into the specifics, let’s take a closer look at what sets the Outremer 51 apart from its peers, as well as some considerations that might give you pause. With a design geared for performance and a variety of features that cater to comfort and practicality, weighing these aspects is crucial for your decision-making.

• Performance-Oriented Design : The Outremer 51 boasts a lightweight build that enhances speed and agility. With a well-thought-out hull design, you’ll find it cuts through the water with grace, often outperforming expectations.
• Spacious Cockpit and Deck Layout : Your experience on deck is characterized by comfort, with a large forward-facing U-shaped settee and a table with drop-down leaves accommodating up to 10 guests, ensuring that social gatherings are a breeze.
• Excellent Visibility at the Helm : All lines lead back to a helm situated on the bulkhead, providing clear sightlines that make solo sailing more manageable and keep you in control as the captain of your vessel.
• Interior Elegance : Inside, you’re treated to a selection of wooden finishes that allow you to customize the interior to reflect elegance that matches your style.
• Cost with Added Options : While the base model is well-equipped, as you start adding options, the price tag can climb, which is an important financial consideration.
• Helm Exposure : At the helm, the elements can be more directly felt, leading many owners to install additional protection like a dodger and bimini for comfort on longer journeys.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, you’ll find answers to common inquiries about the Outremer 51 catamaran. Whether you’re curious about performance, pricing, or craftsmanship, these FAQs are designed to provide you with concise, specific insights.

Q: What are the standout features of the Outremer 51 catamaran?

The Outremer 51 is known for its speed, ability to cover distance efficiently, and upgraded livability from its predecessor. Key features include a more angular coachroof design, feedback-influenced improvements for better living onboard, and performance-enhancing tweaks to the hull and transom design.

Q: How does the Outremer 51’s performance compare to the Outremer 45?

Compared to the smaller Outremer 45, the 51-foot version boasts enhanced performance through its stretched hull, resulting in faster speeds and more stability. Moreover, the additional length provides a smoother ride with improved handling characteristics.

Q: What is the average price range for a used Outremer 51?

The price for a used Outremer 51 varies based on the year, condition, and equipment included. Market trends show that Outremer catamarans hold their value well due to demand, with prices often reflecting the high-quality construction and popularity among cruisers.

Q: What are common feedback points from owners about the Outremer 51’s livability and comfort?

Owners frequently praise the Outremer 51 for its comfortable living spaces, both inside and out. The boat’s design incorporates owner feedback, which has led to enhancements, including a more habitable interior, efficient use of space, and a cozy yet seaworthy layout for long passages.

Q: How does the sailing speed of the Outremer 51 compare to other catamarans in its class?

The Outremer 51 catamaran is recognized for its impressive sailing speeds, averaging 9-10 knots on long passages, with the potential to exceed these figures under optimal conditions. Its performance is frequently cited as competitive or superior to other catamarans in its class.

Q: Can you provide details on the construction and craftsmanship of the Outremer 51?

The construction of the Outremer 51 catamaran showcases high-quality craftsmanship with a focus on strength, durability, and weight optimization. The meticulous attention to detail in the design and build process ensures a robust, reliable vessel ready for extended bluewater cruising.

Final Words!

In selecting the Outremer 51, you’re not just choosing a vessel; you’re choosing a style of sailing that celebrates speed, sea-worthiness, and personalization. While contemplating your sailing dreams, consider the Outremer 51 as a companion that doesn’t just get you there but transforms the journey into an exhilarating adventure. Keep in mind the necessary trade-offs for performance, but rest assured, they are made without compromising the essence of a pleasurable sailing experience.

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Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.

Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.

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The best Outremer catamaran reviews? Our owners’ stories

A family spirit associated with the joy of living.

With a fleet of more than 300 catamarans around the world, Outremer forms an exceptional community: one of hedonistic adventurers. To cultivate this bond with our sailors, Outremer organizes events in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere such as the famous Outremer Cup, combining fun under sail and enjoyable activities. Outremer also offers tools to facilitate your cruising project: a Facebook group dedicated to our catamaran owners and a technical information blog. Get to know our community while reading our owners’ blogs, testimonials, and Outremer catamaran reviews!

« Sailing Awen » Holly & Stéphane

After enjoying two years of sailing together on their first multihull, Holly from the US and Stéphane from Brittany decided to take a new direction. They opted for the Outremer 52 after a memorable boat test in La Grande Motte in 2020.”

« Sail Puffin » The Hibberd family

This Australian family started their adventure aboard Puffin, an Outremer 4X performance catamaran, in 2020. This is their second Outremer and they enjoy sharing their experience on the technical aspects of sailing.

« Le voyage de Pom » Domi and Mapie

This is the story of one man’s cruising project, with a very loving woman at his side who agrees to follow him. They retired in 2018 and it was finally time for them to start the blue water adventure on their dream boat: an Outremer 5X.

« La balade de Moutik » The Moreau family

Moutik, an Outremer 45 sailing catamaran, was home to a Breton family of four for one year, but the plan in itself took over 9 years to mature. It was an opportunity to refocus on: curiosity and discovery, open-mindedness, surprise and spontaneity, family, nature, patience

« BioTrek Sailing » Lisa, Pierre and Tiller

This retired Canadian couple love to challenge themselves. They participated in the ARC in 2019 and continue to embark on new adventures aboard their Outremer 5X multihull with their beloved dog Tiller.

« Cat Greatcircle » Marijke and Mark

Former owners of a Lagoon 52, this Dutch couple is more than happy to continue the adventure on an Outremer 55, which was delivered to them in 2021. Looking for comfort and sailing pleasure above all, they are delighted by this 55-foot catamaran, which combines performance and ergonomic innovations that make her both comfortable and easy to maneuver.

« Saga Voyage » The Héliès family

A family of passionate sailors from Brittany, with four children: the father, an airline pilot and the mother, a company manager, have been sailing all around the globe. After a round the world adventure onboard their Outremer 51 Moby, they have recently switched to a 55ft catamaran named Saga!

« Vast Floating » Maren and Matthias

An exemplary couple who have found the perfect balance between travel and work. They have decided to leave the routine behind and embark on a joint professional project aboard their Outremer 51 catamaran.

Outremer owner testimonials & catamaran reviews

Passionate sailors.

With a fleet of nearly 400 blue water catamarans around the world, Outremer forms an exceptional community: one of fun-loving adventurers.

To cultivate this bond with our sailors, we organize annual events such as the Outremer Cup, and offer platforms to help mainstream and share knowledge, such as the owners’ Facebook group and a technical blog.

What others have to say about Outremer

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Invitation to set sail

As a French catamaran manufacturer, we are proud that almost 400 Outremer catamarans have been sailing on all the seas of the globe with couples and families living their dreams.

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By the time you’re reading this, the Outremer 4.Zero and her crew will most likely be mid-Atlantic, in the wake of Magellan and his faithful second mate Elcano. Though Jimmy Cornell has presented in person, and in detail, his technical and historical challenge, we couldn’t miss the opportunity to test ELCANO 500, this Outremer of the future also known as Aventura Zero. As soon as the catamaran was launched, we took advantage of a short weather window in early October to test this prototype for you. We were able to take part in one of the very first sea trials, before the boat cast off for Seville, Magellan’s port of departure some 500 years ago.

Test location: La Grande Motte, France Wind: 8 to 12 knots southeasterly Sea state: smooth to slight

For any multihull and cruising enthusiast, this 100% electric 4.Zero Outremer is a double surprise. The first is to find Jimmy Cornell at the helm of a composite multihull that’s fairly performance-oriented. Trailblazer of four round-theworld voyages aboard monohulls and champion of the aluminum centerboarder, Jimmy was back from the Northwest Passage on his Exploration 45 - twice as heavy as his new two-hulled vessel, yet of the same length. The promise had been made to Gwenda, his stainless-steel crew/ spouse, that this time he would retire from the sea. We imagined him pruning his roses in the beautiful house in the South of France that he uses as his base camp. Yes, but then Jimmy had a new idea. And Gwenda gave in, aware that the happiness of her sailor husband cannot be satiated without cruising plans to implement (see MW173).

Test pilot for an all-electric boat The second surprise in all of this is to find Outremer Yachting as part of the project. Above all, the...

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Outremer 51

Description

The Outremer 51 was developed from the 49, of which more than 20 were built. The new styling includes axe bows to keep the bouyancy high up front and a refresh of the profile and interior. She’s a very pretty cat, sleeker than some of her competitors like the Marsaudon Composites TS5 which has a more ´muscly´look.

Designed by the Christophe Barreau and Frederic Neuman, this boat is the most popular model in the Outremer range. It’s a great performing cruising cat with daggerboards for upwind performance. There is an option for a rotating carbon rig like the sportier 5X – but many owners just opt for the static rig.

One of the signature features of the design are the huge trampolines and large freeboard that sets the superstructure further back and helps to centre the weight. This helps to give the 51 her smooth, comfortable ride which is something that the French manufacturer prioritises over living space. She’s a star performer downwind offshore with all that bouyancy in the hulls: she cuts through the water, a real sailing boat.

Read Seth Hynes’ Outremer 51 Owner’s Review for some interesting insights on this blue water catamaran.

• Fast with a comfortable ride. If you want to get from A to B safely at Speed, the Outremer 51 has to be on your shopping list. An average of 9-10 knots should be your target on long passages and you will see speeds well in excess of that
• These boats are very popular on the second hand market and hold their value.
• Those bucket seats and tillers – a must have option for any Outremer owner!
• She will sail upwind as well as a monohull
• Excellent finish quality in the interiors
• This yacht will get going quickly in light winds.
• The trade off for that performance is reduced space down below. The extended bows give you lots of buoyance, but the flip side is that you lose living space. You will also lose some width with those boxes that house the dagger-boards.
• The helm position can feel exposed. Many owners install a dodger and bimini
• Once you start adding options, the 51 can get expensive.

She has a self tacking jib and all the lines are straight back to the helm as standard, which is situated on the bulkhead- visibility is excellent from here. Electric winches are a must for short handed sailing- raising the main and reefing are that much easier with a short handed crew.

There’s an option for a helm canopy to protect yourself and of course you have those Outremer bucket seats behind so that you can sail with a tiller for maximum feel of the boat. You can opt for twin helms if you want, but most people free up some space with a single helm – particularly if they have gone for the tiller and bucket seat option.

The tillers make a good back-up system, a nice safety feature as well as giving you the boat feel.

It has to be said though – in really rough weather you’ll be inside the saloon at the navigation table. Those helms are pretty exposed unless you have installed a dodger.

We also have to give a big thumbs up to the life raft location which is positioned forward in the nets away from any potential fire hazards in the engine bays and galleys – again, showing that the priority for Outremer is safety.

Walking down from the bulkhead helm on the starboard side, you drop into the big cockpit with its wrap around sofa around a dining table. Once you drop down curtains and clears, you can extend your saloon all the way back aft although this won’t include the helm.

Living Area

The views are panoramic with a couple of opening hatches for ventilation.

Down below, the cabins are light and airy with a queen sized berth aft with big long windows, a hatch at the stern and a hatch above. The headroom is good, although the hulls might feel narrow with that daggerboard box and the slim, fast hulls. The owner’s version has a separate shower (easy to stand up in) forward in the port hull and a head. It feels a lot more spacious than the 45, her smaller sister.

On the starboard hull there is a guest cabin up forward (with an option for fold down bunks). Aft, the guest cabin has a queen sized bed going athwartships if you went for that option (you can choose fore and aft if you wish)

Outremer are famous for their build quality and attention to detail- you’ll notice clear water between this boat and cruising cats in a more modest price range.

With all the lines coming back to the helm, she’s a well organised boat that is safe to sail with a limited crew. With those high freeboards and generous volumes in the hulls, she sails well in confused seas. And once you are in those bucket seats with a tiller in hand, you’ll have a smile plastered all over your face.

If you are cruising, you will see more light winds than heavy on average, and the Outremer 51 will sail fast in light air. And she will sail well with reduced sail area which reduces the stress levels on longer passages. Those narrow hulls and the smaller saloon means that the side decks are wide, so moving around is safe. Sail handling is just plain easier on that huge foredeck.

After Sales

Another thing you should consider is the Outremer after sales service. This is something to be commended: Outremer have made a real effort to excel in this area, and that goes for owners of second hand boats too.

This sets them apart from much of the competition and in particular the volume manufacturers who offload communication to their dealer network. They have built a real community between the company and owners and that means loyal customers. Hats off to them on this front.

This is a fantastic blue water cruising boat – it’s probably the out and out leader. For all of that performance, you are going to have to trade off space and comfort though, so it depends on where your priorities lie.

Competitors include the Catana 47 and the Marsaudon TS5. They all have there pros and cons of course. You might also want to take a look at our Seawind 1600 review which is another boat that competes with the Outremer.

The 51 is a very comfortable boat, particularly when the sun is shining. And she’s one of the safest in her class.

Why did Outremer add 2 feet to the 49? By lengthening the sugar scoops by 60cm, Outremer improved the sea-motion of the yacht and smoothed out the wake. This allowed them to power up the rig.

How much is an Outremer 51? What´s the price range This will depend on the options you go for (a carbon rig will increase your costs significantly, for example). You can expect a reasonably spec’d new boat to cost around €850-900k. They do hold their value though. You will probably pay €700-750k for a decent second hand boat. They don´t come onto the market very often.

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Outremer 4x catamaran.

Outremer 4X is the performance version of the Outremer 45. 4X is more elongated than its predecessor and also offers increased speed. However, it is not a racing catamaran. Rather, the idea behind it is that of a fast multihull boat worthy of being taken on long voyages by a small family.

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DESIGN – INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

As always, the focus of the Outremer 4X catamaran is seaworthiness, comfort, and safety. Outremer achieves its idea of comfort not by extravagant living spaces but by specific designing details that make the catamaran a nimble delight on the sea. The hulls of the Outremer 4X have been elongated by 3 ft. to give it more structural stability. The Outremer 4X catamaran has all structural parts laminated, a vacuum-infused carbon composite reinforced bulkheads. It also has a carbon rotating mast, daggerboards, and numerous other carbon reinforcements that help in reducing the weight of the vessel, making it less prone to pitching and easier to maneuver.

The length of the Outremer 4X has a larger transom platforms that provides a large area to make it easy to access the cockpit or go down into the water. It also hosts storage space to the sides. The side decks are wide, and there is protection available while moving across in the form of carbon hand-rails.

Like the cockpit of Outremer 45, 4X also boasts an asymmetrical cockpit, which is at the same level as the saloon. The cockpit is protected from the weather by a strip of rigid hard-top bimini, which can be extended using the removable side panels. There is a built-in table with a neat wood finishing and a seating area that can comfortably house up to 8 people.

Three steps above the cockpit are the raised helm station of the catamaran, equipped with a comfortable helm seat and steering wheel both to port and to starboard. The winches and clutches used to work the sheets, halyards, and mast rotation are all located next to the wheel. All the control lines and halyards are, thus, accessible at the helm station. While the roof bulkhead protects the helm person, the helm station also provides an excellent view of all four corners of the vessel – making it easier to maneuver safely. 

The Outremer 4X also comes with optional carbon-fiber tillers and a characteristic space-pod chair by the helm station for an intimate steering experience. The carbon daggerboards of Outremer 4X provide excellent upwind performance and increased speed downwind.

The foredeck of the Outremer 4X has a structural beam and structural compression beam in carbon as well. Like the other Outremer, 4X has no seating space forward and two large trampolines. The positioning of the life raft beside one of the trampolines is thoughtful and away from potential sources of danger such as the engine room or the galley where a fire can break out. The sail lockers are deep and wide enough to not only store all the sails and ropes but also other additional equipment such as kayaks, bikes, paddles, etc.

Open to the cockpit via sliding glass door, the saloon of Outremer offers a panoramic view of the world beyond the interiors. It offers an aft-facing settee wrapped around a telescopic table which can easily seat up to 6 people. The table can be converted into a berth with additional cushions to serve as either a watch berth or an additional berth for friends staying over.   

The L-shaped galley is positioned right in between the cockpit and the saloon, making it open to both the areas for an efficient serving of meals and drinks. It has a single stainless steel sink and a three-burner hob which has a porthole for ventilation directly above it. The galley has sufficient storage space for the food supplies and also has a fitted oven and a refrigerator.

The navigation station faces forward and comes with a rotating bar seat which can be rolled around to the table. The desk at the navigation station is spacious, where all the electronics are installed. The station, of course, offers excellent visibility of the sails through the window.

The saloon is well ventilated and enjoys lots of light, which filters in. It also has multiple forward opening hatches and portholes.

ACCOMODATIONS

In the owner’s version, the owner’s hull with a double bed in the cabin aft is well-ventilated and bright, featuring a large window, a hatch, and a porthole. The area forward is occupied by a head that is large enough to be comfortably functional. The two cabins in the port hull are similar but slightly smaller.

The accommodations offered in Outremer 4X are smaller than those you find on a charter catamaran, owing to the streamlined design to achieve better performance and greater speed.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Outremer 4X has an overall length of 14.6 meters and beam of 7.10 meters. It has a total displacement of 8.2/11.1 tons. Powered by two 30 hp diesel engines, Outremer 4X has a water capacity of 336 liters and fuel capacity of 440 liters. The fuel capacity is particularly beneficial because the vessel consumes only 3 liters for every 100 kilometers when cruising on one engine at 6 knots, translating to a fuel capacity enough to sustain 150 hours of motor cruising. The diesel and water tankers are located forward of the vessel with access behind the trampolines.

PRICE RANGE

The price of Outremer 4X varies from $800,000 to $850,000.

In conclusion, Outremer 4X retains all the best features of Outremer 45 but is further refined to deliver an intricate balance between style, speed, and safety. With a 15% more powerful sail plan, Outremer 4X is considered a supercharged version of its predecessors, and this winner of the 2016-17 European Yacht of the Year award certainly does offer improved performance. Outremer 4X is meant for families seeking fast yet comfortable sailing across the oceans.

Outremer 4X Specs

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