aventura 43 catamaran review

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Aventura 37

Description

What is the best value 37-foot catamaran on the market if you are buying new? Well, the Aventura 37 has to be in with a shout. Aventura was launched in 2000 and began by specialising in building smaller catamarans that are great value for money. They now build the 37, 45 and two motor yachts: the 35MY and 50MY.

The 37 was developed in collaboration with Lasta Design and is positioned against yachts such as the Excess 11 and the Bali Catsmart (38). She’s a good-looking boat with some clever touches and an interior space that is unique on the market for a sub 12m yacht. There is an option for a fly-lounge and the helm has a double seat with a winch station close to the sail plan, allowing excellent control of the mainsail and overlapping genoa.

The outside saloon can accommodate up to 8 guests; with steps to starboard for direct access to the roof, and inside, the layout has been well thought out with a saloon for 5 to 6 guests, a galley with a 285L American style fridge/freezer, an oven, a microwave, a dishwasher and a navigation area tucked into the starboard corner. There is even an option for a grill in the aft lounge

Aventura 37 Boat Tour at Barcelona Boat Show

• Probably the best-value new 37-footer on the market
• With a clever use of space, the Aventura 37 feels like a bigger boat, especially if you opt for the owner’s version.
• Plenty of relaxation zones such as the aft lounge, the fly lounge, the saloon and the forward deck
• A competent sailor, especially with the bowsprit option
• Very good visibility from the helm with all lines leading back to the control station
• Aventura isn’t as well known as some other production catamaran brands, we’d expect a faster depreciation over time.
• No ventilation overhead in the saloon. The forward windows are big though.

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Configuration

The Aventura 37 comes standard as a 3-cabin version, with the owner’s suite in the port hull comprising a big double bed, an office space, a dressing room and a walk-in shower. She is also available in a four cabin charter version with two or four bathrooms.

The Aventura comes with a genoa and mainsail with a traveller aft on the coach roof. There is an option for a bowsprit to fly larger sails in lighter conditions. She has a favourable sail-area/displacement ratio and well-shaped hulls and is a competent sailor. They have worked hard to centralise the weight – an important factor for the motion at sea on a 37-footer. You can expect 7-8 knots in favourable conditions, a touch more with the bowsprit option or when the wind picks up.

What you lose in simplicity with the overlapping genoa, you gain in power from the fore-sail. With an electric winch, tacking is easy in any case.

Outside Space

This catamaran packs a lot of relaxation space into her size. The aft salon has a dining table that will sit up to eight, and there is a long bench aft with a sun lounger to starboard. Heading forward on the starboard side, you will pass the steps up to the optional fly lounge. And forward, there is room for three more large cushions on the foredeck. There are plenty of relaxation zones in other words!

The boat is easy to get around with plenty of hand-holds on the coach roof.

Interior Space

The well-thought-out design continues as you head inside the saloon which can accommodate 5/6 people around the table and includes an oven, microwave, an American-style fridge/freezer and even a nav station forward on the starboard side. There is plenty of storage.

Down below, Lasta Design has done a fantastic job in maximising the space for living. On the owner’s version, you have a big double berth, an office space, a separate dressing area and a big walk-in shower. The guest hull has two cabins and a head and shower. There is also an option for a charter configuration with four cabins and from two to four bathrooms.

What is the price of an Aventura 37? How much does this yacht cost? At the time of publication, prices start from €288,500. With all of the options, you are looking at around €350-370k for a well kitted-out yacht.

Technical Specification

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Questions about stability and heavy weather sailing

How stable is the boat bearing in mind that it has a centreboard, what is the movement like with no ballast in the keel, is it not somewhat rolly, have you got a device to tell where the centreboard is or do you guess from the number of strokes on the pump, what about the ovni’s sea-keeping abilities, her comfort levels at sea and her ability to deal with an ugly sea, lack of ultimate stability.

• Purely out of interest, do you carry either/both a drogue and parachute?
• Questions about heavy weather sailing

What would happen if the boat capsizes?

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The question of stability generally (not just for the OVNIs) is a tricky one, and I must admit that I am not an expert on the theoretical aspects of it. Looking at it purely subjectively – and having sailed some 30,000 miles on the OVNI43, including crossing Drake Passage twice (once in winds over 50 knots) as well as being battered in Le Maire Strait.

I can say the following: apart from the inherent stability factor itself, a lot depends on: 1. Sea and wind conditions 2. How the crew handles/steers the boat 3. Luck (good or bad!)

I believe that if you encounter the wrong conditions at the wrong place at the wrong time… you will probably capsize the QE2.! My feeling is that with 3.5 tons of ballast, the 43 is quite a stable boat. So if the boat is sailed properly, reefed early, etc you have absolutely no reason to be concerned. As far as I know, of some 600 OVNIs built in the last dozen years (between 30 and 45 feet LOA) none has capsized or got into any serious trouble because of its design.

Back to Stability & Heavy Weather

…The yard won’t let me look at their stability curves, which worries me (and I have heard that the 385 has an AVS of only 100 degrees!).

The OVNI is much more stable than you would expect, and it is not at all rolly. As to the yard not letting you see the stability curves… I would guess they didn’t do it, simply because they may not have that kind of detailed information! This business of stability in cruising yachts is, honestly, most of the time a red herring. None of the production cruising yachts that I know of have been properly tested in a tank, so that mythical “stability factor” depends primarily on calculations, which, at best, present only one side of the argument. As I stated above, the stability of a yacht depends as much on its inherent stability as on a host of external factors: wind, sea state, etc., etc. There are certain situations when even the most stable yacht will simply flip over… I took my own OVNI43 to the Antarctic, crossed the Drake Passage in 50 knots+, while last summer I sailed on an OVNI 39 to 80°N… and slept very well on both occasions!

I rarely use the board in an intermediate position (it doesn’t seem to make much difference), so it is either fully down or up.

…I don’t imagine she will be as forgiving and comfortable as our Nic32, but how much worse I wonder? If you had the freedom to choose another boat, would you still take your OVNI down South again? What were her shortfalls at sea? and what did she do better?

Yes, I did take my OVNI 43 to Antarctica and also sailed on a friend’s OVNI 39 to Spitsbergen. I have confidence in the OVNI design BUT when it comes to stability…. it is not just the stability of the boat that counts if it may come to extreme weather and the possibility of capsizing, but also the experience of the crew and skipper. So while I was quite happy to take my own OVNI into the Southern Ocean (and had an experienced crew) I would be reluctant to recommend to anyone to take a light displacement centreboarder into that area. The OVNI is OK for ANY job, but a lot depends on who is in charge!

I just completed a circumnavigation on my OVNI 43 and I can assure you that the boat is as comfortable as a heavier boat. Your concern, about how an OVNI handles in heavy weather is understandable. I have been in winds 60+ knots (briefly) and sustained 40 knot winds, without any problem, but I continued sailing – because this is what you do in a light or medium/light displacement boat. Also, I hove to in 35 knots and while she made more leeway than a keeled boat, she behaved reasonably well and was very stable.

If you only plan to go around Cape Horn, I feel a 385 would be fine…if you plan to sail all the way to New Zealand in the 40s and 50s, then I go back to the beginning of this message: it’s not up to the boat, it’s up to you! I know what I can do, and I would take my boat along that route.

…People are concerned about lack of ultimate stability, which has to be the case with a light centreboard. The yard quoted me an AVS of 115deg for the Ovni 435 (probably bottom end of acceptability). They don’t admit to having the curve, and referred me to the designer (I couldn’t be bothered, as I should not have chosen such a design if I wanted a 140+deg AVS). My main concern was a basically strong boat capable of withstanding being beaten up by three small boys, and possibly the odd floating nasty.

I am not prepared to go into long discussions about stability – I am not a naval architect and do not know enough about this subject to be able to make an informed comment. Generally OVNIs have a good record (I don’t know of any that have capsized), and as I said in reply to a similar question, I took my boat to the Antarctic and back and wasn’t too worried…so draw your own conclusions.

Purely out of interest, do you carry either/both a drogue and parachute? …Partly due to point 2, I thought I would get both a parachute and a proper series drogue for the boat this time – to give some choice in the matter. I have heard, but with no decent references, that lifting the keel when lying to a drogue would mitigate against being tripped during a broach in exceptional conditions. Any thoughts on this?

I really believe parachute anchors are useless and dangerous… a boat like the OVNI is made to sail, so I would not suggest to heave to to a sea anchor EVER! If you have the experience (and the guts!) you just carry on sailing, playing the swell and winds and hope for the best. Much safer than lying to a drogue.

Questions About Heavy Weather Sailing

…reading the ovni faq jimmy says that the best way to sail an ovni in bad weather is keep her sailing and not use drogues and parachute anchors. we would like to have advice about the best way of keeping her sailing with a small crew in 40/50 knots and more. is he steering the boat himself at that moment which course to the wind and waves is the best to steer when you have space enough do you still lift the centreboard when you are downwind reaching in bad weather do you always try to avoid sailing in bad weather how much is using as less sail as possible is there something published in a book or article about sailing this kind of modern boats so we can read about it.

First of all I need to make two important points: 1. I speak entirely from personal experience, and am not prepared to make general statements on this, or any, subject; 2. The most important aspect in anything to do with sailing is the personal experience of the skipper and his crew. Nothing can beat that!

I will now deal with your points in order: 1. Drogues or parachute anchors: I have no personal experience of either, have considered both, and decided that a medium light displacement boat as an OVNI could be handled, in heavy weather, without such aids. The maximum wind I have experienced on my current OVNI 43 was 60 knots, but that was in gusts. The highest sustained winds I have had to deal with were 50 knots, with corresponding seas. This was in Le Maire Strait (off Argentina) and the seas were quite confused and high. We continued to sail the boat, as far reefed down as possible, and survived with only some minor damage. 2. Sailing an OVNI in 40-50 knots. I have been in 40+ knots on several occasions, and – fortunately on most occasions – the wind was from such a direction that I could continue to sail more or less in the direction I wanted to go. Usually I would have 3 reefs in the mainsail (I have a 4th reef as well, but have used it only once), and the staysail rolled up to about half its normal size. Broadreaching at about 150 degrees is the best for the boat and steering. Under such conditions I normally let the autopilot do the work: I have a powerful Brookes & Gatehouse hydraulic pilot. Occasionally I take over by hand, but it is hard work… and I am not doing such a good job as the pilot! The pilot is an ATP2 hydraulic system – identical to the one used by Ellen McArthur on her recent circumnavigation… so you can see why it works so well on a 43 foot cruising yacht!

Returning from Antarctica to Chile in 1999, we had to heave to in about 45 knots as the winds were from NW and we expected higher seas once we reached the continental shelf. With 4 reefs in the main, and a well reefed staysail, the boat hove-to well, and was quite comfortable. We spent the night like this, and by morning the wind had gone into the north and we could lay our course. 1. If you have enough sea room, the best way, I believe, is to try and broadreach (around 150 degrees). If you have no sea room, then heaving to is probably the answer. 2. To avoid bad weather, I do try and sail – whenever possible – in the safe seasons in the tropics, so as to avoid, as much as possible, being caught by a tropical storm. Avoiding bad weather at other times (on long passages) is virtually impossible, so one has to be prepared for it. 3. Books: I think Adlard Coles “ Heavy Weather Sailing ” (in its latest edition) is the best on the subject.

Going now back to the two points I made at the beginning, I want to encourage you to get yourselves (and the boat) as well prepared as possible… and go sailing. It is certainly not as dangerous out there as you think, especially if you are reasonably cautious… and the experience that I also mentioned will come with time!

It never happened yet, but if an Ovni capsizes, what happens to the keel, is it fixed or does it fall down, risking damage to the boat and preventing the boat to redress itself?

If an OVNI inverts, I am sure it will come back again although you may lose the mast. My OVNI 43 has 3.5 tones of lead ballast to a displacement of 8.5 tons, so it is quite stable. The centreboard, if in the fixed position, will not move. If the hydraulic lock is open, the centreboard will simply fall into its case – and not cause any damage. The board weighs about 100 kg, so it is too light to prevent the boat from righting itself.

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Questions about sails and rigging

You took a fully battened main and a roller staysail, were you happy with this rig, what type of foresails do you have, the yard provides ’53’ and ’44’ winches: are these adequate in your view, is there a problem in tuning the rig with the double afterstays do you have any device to tighten them, could you give us some advice on the parasailor, what’s your opinion on the reefing arrangement best suited to aventura iii.

I am very happy with the fully battened mainsail, as it is very efficient – and you need to sail this kind of boat efficiently to windward. The sail is fitted with lazy jacks and a lazy bag. It is a perfect combination.

I’d like to add that if you go for a fully battened mainsail, make sure you get the best quality roller bearing travellers (Harken works very well on mine)

Back to Sails & Rigging

On Aventura III , I have both a furling staysail and a furling yankee (not a genoa – as I took the boat into strong wind areas, so I considered a genoa to be too much). This system works very well.

The winches installed as standard are adequate but I also have an electric winch (also Harken) which deals with all heavy work – and all my halyards, etc come to the cockpit. The electric winch is on the port side by the companionway.

I can tighten both backstays (I have a tightener on each backstay as used on some racing boats) and it works very well.

…I have read with great interest your accounts about your experience with the Parasailor… I am about to cross the Atlantic with the ARC from east to west and am seriously considering buying this sail. We are a not-so-experienced crew and I would like to make our downwind sailing as comfy and safe as possible. The sail is very expensive, so I’m hesitating… any advice for 3 women eager to sail with ease??

The Parasailor spinnaker is a great sail, I have no doubts about that… but it is more expensive than a normal spinnaker as it is a high-tech sail. It will definitely make sailing downwind easier, so if you can afford it, I certainly advise you to get it… but hurry up or you may not get it in time for this year’s ARC. I used a Parasailor for about 8,000 miles in the last 18 months and it worked perfectly!

…I would appreciate your opinion on the reefing arrangement best suited to Aventura III. The standard Alubat reefing set-up is to provide single line reefing back to the cockpit, I very much wish to have the reefing lines led back to the cockpit. We have been contemplating having separate lines for the leach and luff reefpoints on the first two reefs, all four lines led to clutches on the stbd side cockpit cabin top. I am hoping that this will ensure that we would end up with less friction, lower loads, more control and perhaps better sail shape. We have already picked up on the need for a fully battened main and are having Harken’s Batt Car & track to ensure friction is kept to a minimum.

Single-line reefing has great advantages – and works well provided you use good quality lines and blocks. On my boat I have the 1st reef set up at the foot of the mast. The 4th is only set up in emergencies.

The most important reefs are 2nd and 3rd as it is very convenient to be able to deal with them from the comfort of the dry cockpit, when the wind comes up! My single lines run through blocks on the luff and leach of the sail, through the boom., and back to an electric winch in the cockpit. There is naturally some friction but this is not too bad if you use large blocks, and ideally bring the mainsail as close as feasible to the centreline of the boat. I managed to take in a reef often when running, but it has to be done very gradually, by easing the main halyard bit by bit. Needless to say both the main halyard and reefing lines are next to each other right by the electric winch, which makes it very easy for one person to reef in normally less than one minute.

Using two lines would not work so well from the cockpit, in which case you might as well use the classic system and do the work from the foot of the mast.

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Questions about engine, propeller & equipment

Did you take the bigger engine option (60hp), engine volvo or yanmar.

• I have just ordered a 435 for a long trip. The boat comes with Volvo MD22 as standard. You said this had problems, and you would use a Yanmar in future. Is this a problem with installation, or just a poorer engine design in your experience?
• High output alternators?

Did you fit an Autoprop?

Did you get a good enough radar picture with the scanner on the aft porch/spoiler, how do you get your heating system to work efficiently.

• You say that you have a watermaker (type?), does it run on 12 V or do you have a 220 V generator?
• What are Jimmy’s comments on the Windpilot he uses?

No, and the 50 hp is ok. There were a few early problems such as the salt water pump had to be replaced twice, but it all works fine now. The engine uses too much oil for my taste, but I’ve been assured that this is a general problem with this model and there is no reason to be concerned,

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I had a lot of problems with the Volvo so I hope the Yanmar is better!

I have just ordered a 435 for a long trip, and I was wondering if I could clarify a few points … The boat comes with Volvo MD22 as standard. You said this had problems, and you would use a Yanmar in future. The MD22 is fairly commonplace, although the Yanmar has a better reputation. Is this a problem with installation, or just a poorer engine design in your experience? Maybe I should switch if possible.

I cannot comment on Volvo’s quality (MD22) – I did have a lot of problems with the sea water pump, but what annoyed me most was the bad after-sales service, even while the engine was still under guarantee. I just hope Yanmar are better in this respect. My Volvo is running well, so no complaints on that score.

High output alternators? …In my discussions with Mr. Bernard Roucher at Alubat in Les Sables d’Olonne, I could not obtain clear advice on options for achieving the charging capacity required for a bank of 6-95 amp-hr batteries. For Euro 1385, he indicated that the Volvo distributor puts a 60 amp high output alternator in place and clearly this is costly and insufficient. You have stated that Aventura III is equipped with two 70 amp high output alternators: did you have this work completed by Alubat? I feel as though I need to have the charging capacity I need at launch since my plan is to sail the boat home, not ship it.

The first alternator on my OVNI43 was installed by Alubat. It is not really a high-output alternator, just a standard alternator. The cost quoted by Alubat is about the same as the price I paid in 1998. The second alternator is fitted with a Greiff smart regulator. This work was done in London by a German electrical engineer and inventor (Wilhelm Greiff) after the boat was delivered. Depending on your electricity consumption, you may find the two alternators sufficient. I also have 3 solar panels, as well as a Rutland windgenerator.

No, a Maxprop, and it works very well.

No problem there – it works very well.

…You mention that you have a WEBASTO hot air heating in your boat and four outlets. My boat is a little smaller than yours (40 ft). I installed 3 years ago a heating (Eberspächer) very similar to your Webasto I imagine and 5 outlets (one in the forecabin, one in each of the aft cabins and two in the centre. This heating provides hot water as well in a very efficient way. But I’m not satisfied by the heating which is not efficient at all. The heating exchanger (XEROS 4200) is at the aft part of the boat and the air is not hot enough when arriving in the fore part and even in the middle (too long hose?). When it is 10°C outside, I cannot get more than 14°C inside….. That is why I would like to ask you how is the installation of “Aventura III”. Do you use some exchanger similar to the XEROS ? How do you get hot air at more than 4/5 meters from it?

Your problem could be the insulation of your boat. My boat is very well insulated, both overhead, and the sides down to waterlevel (should have gone right down to the bilge!). We had no problem keeping the boat warm in Antarctica, even if, as in your case, the hot air outlets farthest away from the heater were not very efficient. So you may have to get the boat better insulated… or learn to live at 14°C… in Antarctica we had the temperature go down to 6° at night – and we survived!

You say that you have a watermaker (type?), does it run on 12 V or do you have a 220V generator?

I have a HRO and I am not too happy with it. It works on 12V but needs a lot of power (about 40-50 Amps) so need to run the engine when using it. There are now better systems on the market… HRO is, I feel, rather outdated. I don’t have a 220V generator.

What are Jimmy’s comments on the Windpilot he uses? …(I think it must be the Pacific MF4 model) since I own a Trisbal 36 (more or less the same as an OVNI of the same length) and I’d wish to install one. …What about the electric pilot used with the Windpilot? You used to use a Hydrovane windvane steering system. I would be very interested to know whether either system is clearly better than the other and, if so, which is best and why. Did you switch from the Hydrovane to the Windpilot because the former did not work satisfactorily?

Yes, I use a Windpilot Pacific self-steering gear (1998) and I am reasonably happy with it. Occasionally I use a small autopilot (Navico) as a back-up to my main autopilot (Brookes & Gatehouse), especially in light winds as the Navico uses less power. The system works but, as I said, I use it mainly as an emergency back-up. The make of the pilot is not important as long as it is of the push-pull type that can be connected to the Windpilot’s windvane frame.

I switched from Hydrovane to WindPilot because I felt that the Hydrovane system may not be powerful enough for a 43 ft boat. The Hydrovane worked well on my previous, 40 ft boat, so I could not state that one is better than the other. Both have certain limitations, and in fact all wind operated self-steering systems have some limitations, so I prefer to have both a windvane and a reliable autopilot – and I advise anyone setting off on a long voyage to follow my example.

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Other questions

Do you have some suggestions regarding the prevention of hull corrosion by electrolysis or do you have other instruments other than the zinc anodes to face this potentially “lethal” phenomenon, your opinion of a watertight bulkhead bowthruster, have you had any problems with the plastic valving, sea cocks etc – or did you replace stuff, did you increase the tankage on water(or fuel) during the build.

• What can I use to purify the water in the (obviously Aluminium!) water tanks?

Did you make any changes to the boat’s standard layout, if so, what did you change?

Have you, or considered, reinforced the companionway hatch/washboards it seemed a little light to me., how does the ovni perform upwind can you estimate the average angle between windward and cog and the speed, tacking in different wind forces and sea state, is condensation an issue in colder climates, if you should order a new ovni, which changes would you make, any other thoughts or suggestions.

I have had an OVNI435 for 5 years – and sailed some 45.000 miles – and – thank God – have not had any corrosion problems. I have renewed the zinc anodes regularly (one which goes quickly – after about 6-9 months – is the propeller anode – I have a MaxProp). Apart from that all you need to do is regularly check the current leakage meter ( Contrôle d’isolement ) which is installed as standard on all OVNIs.

Also, take normal precautions, such as never staying too long docked next to a boat that is made of steel, or boats that run their generator too much… by not too long, I mean not weeks. Also, it is very important when you connect to shore power in marinas that you make sure that the polarity is correctly wired – a lot of marinas are not (which doesn’t really matter on 220 Volt but apparently is not a good idea on an alu boat).

Back to Other Questions

The boat has a watertight compartment ahead of the fwd cabin (the chain locker) so I am not sure about having more of the same. Bowthruster only if you use the boat a lot in marinas and are short-handed. The boat handles very well without a thruster, …but I would get one for the Med.

I don’t have plastic seacocks but welded alu pipes which I think are probably better, especially in ice.

No, I have a watermaker, so no problem.

What can I use to purify the water in the (obviously Aluminium!) water tanks? I have an Ovni 385 and am trying to find out what I can use to purify the water in the (obviously Aluminium!) water tanks. Bleach cannot be used as it reacts with the metal… do you have any ideas?

The manufacturer should have neutralized the tanks when new. There is a product on the market that is used to do just that but I do not know the name. I think West Marine in the US are selling that product. What people have done is use vinegar to neutralize new tanks… it seems to work.

The bad news is that chlorine in ordinary tap water also reacts with aluminium tanks and gives off a bad smell. So what I do is I use one tank for only water from the watermaker, which has no chlorine, and the other tank I fill up from marinas… and always make sure when I leave the boat for any time, that I completely empty the tanks.

The two main changes were to move the galley to port and have 2 armchairs installed at the navigation station, which is now on the stb side of the boat, parallel with the dinette.

The main companionway is indeed not very strong but where are you planning to go?

The actual angle can be anything between 50 and 60 degrees. The speed depends on the strength of wind of course. I have sailed upwind under all wind conditions and the boat has performed well, but it is very important to have good sails, to reef early, to set the sails well, etc. It all takes more effort than on a keeled boat, but it works!

…We intend to buy a used OVNI (80’s). Our major concern is about condensation. We will be sailing in Canada with summer water temperature around 8°C with a air temperature around 20°. The boat is not insulated. I plan to install a central fuel cabin heater. I notice that the centreboard compartment is covered inside with a thin vinyl and so is some deck area near the rear cabin. I thought that wooden interior finish would create a barrier. Am I too optimistic? From your experience, do you think that condensation would be a issue? I would not want to get into insulating the boat.

My own OVNI is insulated from the waterline up, and including the roof. It is 100 mm polystyrene (hard) insulation and works very well both in hot and cold weather. It was excellent in Antarctica. Installing insulation is, I agree, quite an upheaval, so I suggest you try it without insulation one season and see how it goes. What you can do is pack up all top hatches with bubble-wrap. It lets light through but acts as a barrier… and the worst area for condensation are the plexi hatches. Try it.

That’s a difficult question! The main cabin is forward of the mast and the bunk is too narrow (my wife complains about it) so I would make sure that the main cabin (wherever it is) has a wide berth.

I gave up the port aft cabin to have more storage space, and now I regret not having that extra cabin.

Apart from that I wouldn’t make too many changes as I am quite happy (mine is a 43 – the new 435 is better designed and has a lot more space, and carries the beam further aft). All I can say, that if and when I order another boat it will be an OVNI again (probably the 455 – as my family is growing!).

• Buy the best anchor windlass you can afford (I have Lofrans – excellent)
• Put a second (identical) alternator on the engine – ideally with an intelligent charging/regulator system. I have a German regulator supplied by Wilhelm Greiff and it works very well.
• In heavy weather the ventilation ports let water into both engine and starboard locker. This can be very dangerous and something should be done about it.
• Make sure you fix the spreaders so they cannot ride up on the rigging – we lost one on the way to the Falklands!
• When you install the secondary (low level) navigation lights, put the stern light on a separate switch, so you can use it when you get on and off the skirt at night – or when working there generally, such as when adjusting the windvane (Windpilot in my case).

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Aventura 45S Review

This time we talk about the newest yacht from Aventura Catamarans. The Aventura 45S twin-hull sailing cruising catamaran is so new that so far, yachtsmen around the world have just a brochure available that showcases the new boat prepared for release in 2024.

• FEATURES OF AVENTURA 45S

First Impression Might Be False

The transom, the cockpit, on the captain’s bridge, the nameless something, foredeck, forepeak, bowsprit.

• ADVANTAGES OF AVENTURA 45S
• VIDEO REVIEW OF AVENTURA 45S
• PRICE CALCULATOR

TopRik team will go up to his decks and down into its cabins when it is introduced by the manufacturer at one of the boat shows. In the meantime, we offer you a virtual tour based on the images and descriptions in the brochure from Aventura Catamarans .

This is how predatory and swift the new catamaran Aventura 45S (Aventura 45 Sail) appears before us, the development of which, like many previous boat models, was entrusted to the team of naval architects, engineers and designers from Lasta Design.

The shipyard claims that regarding various features, as well as their combination in one model, the Aventura 45 Sail is unparalleled in the sailing catamaran market. These unique features, according to the architects, include the length of 13.5 meters (44 feet), the layout for internal and external spaces and the purity of the lines, aimed at dynamism and elegance. No less unique is moving the control station almost to the roof. In the review, we will dwell on such a solution and express an opinion on its advantages. To be honest, we can see all this already now, on the render with the general exterior of the boat.

When looking at this render, it is already clear that the developers have carefully taken care of the performance of the catamaran. This is evidenced by well-thought-out hull contours, which give the boat dynamism, a raised stern, which reduces the wetted surface area, as well as an extended mast and bowsprit, which allow you to shift the center of sail and increase the sailing area.

The shipyard has chosen the words “Real pleasure at sea…” as the motto for this novelty eagerly awaited by yachtsmen. Based on what we know, our expectations should be justified, and the slogan should turn out to be true.

Features of Aventura 45S

• Brand: Aventura
• Hull type: Catamaran
• Overall length, m: 13.5
• Width, m: 7.5
• Draft, m: 1.4
• Displacement, t: 12
• Air draft, m: 22
• Water tanks, l: 2 x 400
• Exterior design (Architect): Lasta Design Studio
• CE: Certification A12
• Mainsail type: Fully battened
• Jib type: Furling genoa
• Mainsail area, m²: 74
• Jib area, m²: 51/85
• Engines, hp: 2x45
• Fuel tanks l: 2x350

Review of Aventura 45S by TopRik Team

TopRik team is faced with a difficult task: to review the new Aventura 45S catamaran, which is not yet out. Instead, we have a brochure from the shipyard Aventura Catamarans and a video with a virtual tour of the yacht.

But we took on this work, because topRik experts know the yachts and general principles of this shipyard very well, as one of their latest sailing cats, Aventura 37, is presented in our marketplace.

At first glance, it even seemed to us that the Aventura 45S was just an “extended” version of the 37th or a reduced 44th. Yet the gamechanger here is the mast, moved almost to the center of the cabin.

So, we come to the conclusion that the new Aventura 45S, if not designed from scratch, has striking differences from its predecessors in the line of sailing catamarans. This is indicated by completely new contours with a more pronounced cheekbone, and an even greater difference between the width of the underwater and surface parts of the hulls. This was achieved by reducing the area of the wetted surface, which has a positive effect on the maneuverability of the cat, in particular, the ability to tack under sail.

In addition to improving the hydrodynamic characteristics, the expansion of the upper part of the hulls made it possible to expand the living space of the vessel.

As for the position of the mast: on the 37th and 44th, the mast is located in front of the saloon, and on the Aventura 45S, the mast is moved to the saloon, which changes the center of the sail. This allows for a more productive sail plan with an additional gennaker or an additional asymmetric or symmetrical spinnaker.

If you pay attention to the little things, it can be noted that, unlike the rounded stairs of the 44th, you will climb into the cockpit of the Aventura 45S using the usual steps, but veeery wide ones.

And this is what Aventura catamarans have in common - this large gap between the water surface and the bottom of the catamaran from the transom.

If you noticed, we started our virtual review on the same principle as we do when reviewing and testing real boats. Therefore, after a first look at the exterior, let's pay attention to the transom ...

So, a large gap between the bottom and the water, clearly visible from the stern. In the photo below, the platform is a bit in the way, but turn on your imagination and “remove” it. Convinced?

Instead of the rounded steps that we liked so much in the 44th, here the developers just pushed the first step back way back. Now access to the pier or boarding from the pier when mooring side-to has become even more convenient.

As you can see, the platform is large enough to accommodate a motor dinghy. Wide steps on the sides will be quite enough for swimming, you just need to take care of the ladders. It is not clear from the photo whether the ladders are provided here as a standard or if this is an option. The question of the locker with life rafts, pomp and oars is also not answered, it is usually located in that place above the platform. But most likely, the container with rescue equipment will, like on the 44th, be fastened to the railing.

We switch to the cockpit, and immediately notice that the Aventura 45S is, for obvious reasons, closer to the 37 than to the 44. The latter has access to the helm station only from the deck, while the Aventura 45S and 37 have access both from the deck and from the cockpit. We really welcome this decision!

We cannot yet sit down on sofas and in practice calculate how many people will be able to have a bite to eat here in the fresh air without hitting each other with their elbows and knees. For this, there seems to be not only a large table with sofas around, but also a plancha that we grew to love - it is in the image below, to the left of the sofa, which is located along the transom.

We calculated that around the table, on the transom sofa and on another sofa near the helm station ladder, much more than the declared 12 people could easily accommodate. Pay attention to the double sunbed on the starboard side. In general, there is enough space for a party.

And if you take into account the rather roomy interior...

Imagine that we enter the saloon through the sliding door that leads from the cockpit and is clearly visible in the photo above. But what kind of panorama will open to us in the saloon immediately at the entrance - see the image below:

There will be enough places for 10 people and even more, if you count a chef at the stove and the captain at the skipper's table. It seems that only hungry skippers are engaged in design, because they keep placing their tables closer and closer to the dining table and the galley. Although - why "seems"? That’s how it is - all naval architects and designers are excellent yachtsmen themselves and they know the value of a good meal too!

The saloon has this huge skylight hatch to check on the mast and sails, and the panoramic view through the fully glazed three sides of the saloon.

And the working areas - a control station with navigation equipment and a galley - are also well equipped and have convenient walkways. This part of the galley, which is located under the window overlooking the cockpit, can be adapted for the distribution of dishes from the stove to the table or to the bar. The render below demonstrates this clearly:

And look how big the seat is in front of the skipper's table – he or she definitely won't be bored here alone. There is enough space on the panel of this helm station to accommodate all navigational instruments - chartplotter , autopilot, compass , as well as communications and indicators to control the operation of all the equipment of the catamaran.

By the way, on the same structure where the TV panel is located, close to the door there is a huge refrigerator. And the galley, as you can see, is equipped not only with a stove, oven, microwave, etc., but also with a large number of cabinets, shelves and drawers.

In such saloons it is pleasant to spend time at dinner or cocktail party with family or friends. Warm shades of natural wood veneer, lots of light and air. And something tells us that the coffee table can be turned into a large dining table, and if necessary, you can get extra beds here if you miscalculated the number of passengers. Although there is quite enough sleeping places cabins on Aventura 45S already.

Aventura Catamarans presents the future owner with great options in terms of layout choice. You can choose from 3, 4, 5 and 6 cabins. The first two options are more suitable for those planning family cruises or trips with friends. If you have a lot of relatives and friends, or you are in the charter business, the last two cabin options will do fine.

Take a look at the layouts for now in order to more clearly imagine their location in the floats with different configuration options. The topRik team welcomes the location of the berths in the bow not along the course of the catamaran, but across - this makes it possible to place full double beds here, and not one and a half ones.

Based on the renders, the island double beds in the 3 and 4 cabin options are not too different in size from the bed in the owner's cabin. And here all the bathrooms have a separate shower and toilet. If the layout allows for a master cabin, then the owner is given the entire left hull for it, which is divided into several zones. The rest and sleep area look like this:

It’s always amazing how on Aventura Catamarans they manage to accommodate so many volumious storage spaces for clothes and other stuff. On the way to the bathroom there are also lockers and shelves. The bathroom of the master cabin differs from others in size and greater freedom of movement.

The starboard float cabins also have enough space, light and air to feel comfortable and not cramped. Beds are the same as in the master cabin, bathrooms are provided for each cabin.

In the 4-cabin variant, the layout of the right float is mirrored in the left one. If desired, two separate beds can be arranged in the cabins with the use of single or bunk beds.

The layouts show that one of the options for the crew provides a berth in the forepeak. There is enough space and height for a bunk bed.

Now let's climb on the deck and from there to the real captain's bridge.

This is what the helm station raised to the level of the roof of the cabin looks like. Not only is the station located on a raised platform, it is also fenced on one side with a helm panel, and on the other, with the handle of a wide and high skipper's chair. And what is this panel built into the right arm of the chair? Well, it’s the holders for bottles and glasses – these are always welcome!

The panel is not visible from here, but I think it practically repeats the panel of the skipper's table, except for the "gas" shift knob. Within walking distance there are winches on the roof of the cabin. At least one of them must be electric so that the cat can be managed alone in bad weather.

You see, this superstructure, located just above the helm station, can hardly be called a full-fledged flybridge. This is just a place to relax and sunbathe, with a magnificent view of the sea. Yes, the skipper will not be bored alone here also, and when the contents of the bottles in the holders will run out, there will always be someone to get more.

But seriously, we really like this solution. The superstructure does not overload the exterior, as is the case with a full-fledged flybridge on small catamarans. And at the same time, it is much safer than a platform for sun loungers in the same place as in previous models. Here, as you can see, the place is fenced and well furnished: a folding table and a sofa on three sides. Hopefully, there are additional lockers under the seats, although there is plenty of storage space both below deck and on deck.

By the way, the deck. We didn’t see all of it there...

Usually, the catamaran foredeck is perfect for organizing a large sunbathing area. The Aventura 45S was no exception in this regard. Here, you get not only the sunbeds, but also tables with more holders for bottles and glasses. We have already lost count, trying to figure out how many people the owner can invite to his party at the same time while staying at the port.

And that hatch over there is the entrance to the forepeak, used to accommodate the crew for the duration of the charter voyage.

Pay attention to the rather wide decks - here, of course, it will be possible to move freely and safely. Especially if deck is covered with non-slip coated planks.

Having finished this virtual tour of the newest catamaran from Aventura Catamarans, we are sure that we will definitely board the Aventura 45S in reality, and then we will tell you how it behaves under sail, and how reality differs from the renders.

Advantages of Aventura 45S

1. Security. Aventura Catamarans has declared as its priority the production of double-hull boats that are safe for crew and passengers in all weather conditions. To do this, the shipyard invites the best naval architects and designers who develop maneuverable, easy-to-handle catamarans with a high degree of stability even in heavy seas. The ideas of these select developers go to production. In the hulls manufacturing process, the latest technologies are used, which ensure their reliability during long-distance transitions. For the safety of people on board on a long cruise, equipment is carefully selected, from engines to galley equipment. Your family or friends, any charter company’s clients will be completely safe on board the Aventura 45S in all weather conditions. This has been repeatedly confirmed by experienced independent offshore sailors, whom the shipyard invites to test its new cats.

2. Quality. This advantage Aventura Catamarans puts in the next place right after safety. But it should be noted that one without the other is impossible. The quality of the materials used to make the hulls and deck equipment directly affects the safety of navigation. The shipyard uses advanced composite compounds for fiberglass hulls, ISO and epoxy resins, marine water-repellent wood, stainless steel. Marine equipment, sailing wardrobe and yacht accessories are carefully selected from well-known manufacturers: ZSpars, Raymarine , Elvström, Harken, Spinlock. This is just a small listing to represent the quality standard for the Aventura 45S.

3. Performance. Once the safety and quality issues are resolved, the performance issue almost automatically resolves... But not really. To improve the seaworthiness of the Aventura 45S, the marine engineers and architects had to reduce the weight of the boat in order to reduce the wetted area. For this, sandwich structures are used, balance is carefully calculated taking into account the location of heavy equipment, with the ergonomics features taken into account. Let's turn to the previous point and understand that it was not in vain that the developers carefully selected the manufacturers of sailing wardrobe and rigging, marine fittings and, of course, secured themselves with reliable engines of sufficient power. All this makes the Aventura 4

5S a high-performance sailing catamaran that maneuvers and tacks well under sail.

4. Versatility. Sailing catamaran Aventura 45S is designed for a wide range of sailors - those who love to travel alone or with family, friends, who prefer long-distance passages or coastal sailing, who choose the comfort of sailing and life on board. For all these activities, catamaran configuration options are also provided. You can buy the Aventura 45S with 3, 4, 5 or even 6 cabins, with 2 to 4 bathrooms on board. As a result, you can count on the ability to accommodate from 6 to 12 people on a yacht, and even more if you use the forepeak. At the same time, all passengers and the crew will not experience constraint in movement or lack of space to store their belongings.

And last but not least, it is a good price for a catamaran of this size, considering the rigging, equipment and finishes included.

Video Review of Aventura 45S

Obviously, there’s not much to look at yet, that’s why this video is the closest thing to a video review that we could find. It showcases the 3D model of the future catamaran from different sides and provides some interior renders:

Before you figure out, who this new boat is intended for, you should immediately understand who will not be satisfied with the Aventura 45S catamaran. If you prefer yachting in an ascetic hardcore style or, on the contrary, expect luxury for a pampered sybarite with a sauna, jacuzzi and SPA, this is not your choice.

If you like to combine the wind in your hair with socializing with family or friends in the comfort of your own home, the Aventura 45S catamaran is pretty much made to order. Since you can always show your skills as a yachtsman and at the same time easily cope with the sails even alone, and your family or friends will find many pleasant areas on the yacht for relaxing, sunbathing, swimming, dining.

If you are organizing charters or renting out yachts, this cat will certainly be in demand, as it is spacious, roomy (up to 12 people) and quite comfortable, with the allure of a fresh model added to the mix.

There is a lot of space for any party, refrigerators and freezers will keep enough food and drinks for any company.

All your guests, relatives or passengers will be able to take on the cruise all the essen`tials that they cannot do without in order to feel like they are at home on board.

Did we already mention that you can manage a yacht alone? So why is this not an option for those who want to get lost in the ocean in solitude and at the same time not deny themselves comfort, with clean towels after the shower and a good meal.

And for a couple, this is an opportunity to get lost in the ocean for a couple of weeks with no one else around. At the same time, your excellent mood will not be spoiled by physical fatigue from the struggle with sailing rigging or the absence of a champagne bottle when the sunset arrives.

Adequate physical activity for those who want it and relaxing comfort for everyone on board - that's what Aventura Catamarans offers you in their newest catamaran.

Price calculator

Where to buy aventura 45s at a bargain price.

You can already queue to buy Aventura 45S at a bargain price when boat is released by sending a message to our specialists. We will place an order and monitor its progress as these new cats are released.

You must understand that the hype around every new boat from Aventura Catamarans grows as more information and test results become available. By the way, nothing will prevent you from canceling the order if your circumstances change by the time your queue for the purchase of Aventura 45S approaches.

TopRik marketplace experts take care of all the work involved in buying your dream yacht. We find out how you see your Aventura 45S and then:

• we place an order with the manufacturer or dealer with a list of your requirements for the configuration of the cabins, the range of equipment, sailing wardrobe, etc.;
• we control the process of order promotion as new copies are released;
• we accept a catamaran from a manufacturer or a dealer;
• we draw up all the necessary documents, including customs (if necessary);
• we deliver the catamaran to the specified point.

In addition, we offer you to complete the catamaran with equipment and accessories that are not provided in the standard or optional equipment of the manufacturer: fenders , watermaker , textiles for bedroom and dining room, unbreakable dishes, safe cutlery, chargers , etc. Just go to the relevant sections of the marketplace and you will see a lot of useful accessories, spare parts and fittings. We do not upsell or impose anything on you - you choose what you need.

But if you have doubts, we will always help to resolve them. Marketplace consultants are experienced sailors who cannot imagine life without going to sea under sail. You will not find a question that they cannot answer.

Just contact the marketplace staff using the feedback system on the website or send an e-mail message. And yes, you can also call - the phone number is listed above this page.

Please note that there is a price calculator on our Aventura 45S for sale page - you can choose the equipment of your catamaran based on official price-list until your requirements match your idea of a good price.

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Ovni 430 review: new interpretation of a successful concept

• Rupert Holmes
• November 22, 2023

More and more boatbuilders are offering electric or hybrid propulsion as an option, but is it viable yet for a heavy aluminium yacht such as the Ovni 430?

Product Overview

Price as reviewed:.

The concept of rugged aluminium centreboard boats is well proven, but can a boat displacing 14 tonnes when loaded sail well in the light airs that predominate during summer in cruising areas such as the Med, northern Europe and even the Arctic? And can hybrid propulsion work in that context? The chance to jump on the first Ovni 430 to leave the yard during September’s heatwave provided clear answers to both questions.

First impressions of the Ovni 430 are of very practical and seamanlike arrangements, with acres of flat deck space, deep bulwarks, plus solid metal handholds, mostly near waist height. There are also plenty of mooring cleats, a capacious deep chain locker and our test boat was also fitted with substantial granny bars at the mast.

The standard of finish on deck is high, with welds ground perfectly smooth, neat paintwork and the general feel of a well specified, comfortable yacht. It’s a marked contrast to Ovni’s trademark raw aluminium topsides that resist knocks and dings so well.

We set out from Les Sables d’Olonne in a dying southerly breeze, under mainsail and an all-purpose gennaker in just six knots of true wind. Not so long ago most yachts of this size and weight would most likely have needed at least 10 knots of wind to get moving. But not in this case – we consistently made just over four knots, representing an impressive 70% of true wind speed.

Purposeful new centreboard design for most cruising waters. Photo: Christophe Favreau

The Ovni 430 is Ovni’s first model with an additional chine in the bottom of the hull, which reduces wetted surface area. The twin angled rudders are mounted well outboard on this chine and the steering has been re-engineered to give a more direct response.

Despite the very light conditions, and the boat’s substantial weight, the helm felt positive at all times. Even with boat speeds as low as two knots, it was responsive and predictable, without oversteer and with a directness of feel that belies the hefty displacement. This is all the more impressive given the necessity for the rudders to be relatively short, with a low aspect ratio, to enable the boat to dry out on its flat bottom. By the time we swapped to the Code 0 the wind had died to less than four knots, with boat speed under sail struggling to get much above half that.

But adding a small boost from the electric motor – our test boat is the first-ever Ovni with hybrid propulsion – made a huge difference.

The Ovni 430 on test proved adept at silent motorsailing in light breeze. Photo: Christophe Favreau

A silent nudge

Just 3.3kW of propulsion power more than doubled boat speed to 4.4 knots, markedly improving range before needing power from the range-extending 11kW Fischer Panda diesel generator. Unlike motorsailing with a diesel propulsion engine, the only audible sound is a very low level from the gearbox – a noise that’s normally drowned out by the racket of even the best soundproofed internal combustion engines.

With this combination of sail and motor, we could have continued for more than six hours before depleting the 28.8kW lithium-ion phosphate battery bank and resorting to the generator, despite there being only four knots of true wind.

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The genset is far quieter than any diesel propulsion engine thanks to a soundproof box and very soft mounts. The hybrid arrangement also allows for a smaller propulsion battery to be specified than for electric-only boats. Yet the expectation is it will rarely be used – the test boat has 900W of solar, while the electric motor’s regeneration mode produces 300W when sailing at 4.5 knots, a figure that increases exponentially with speed. There will be many occasions, therefore, in which the batteries can be fully replenished while on passage.

Expansive foredeck is emphasised by full bow sections. Photo: Christophe Favreau

Step change in style

This boat is a development of the Ovni 400, launched only three years ago, which itself was a big move for the yard. Its step change of style, with near-vertical topsides, a rounded reverse bow and proportionately longer waterline represented major changes compared to earlier generations. The Ovni 430 uses the same hull with a few modifications, including wider sections in the forward two-thirds of the boat that increase both form stability and volume in the owners cabin.

Despite its bulk and weight the 430 proved responsive. Photo: Christophe Favreau

As well as the additional chine in the lower part of the hull, builder Alubat changed to what it calls ‘semi thick’ construction for the Ovni 430. This uses 10mm aluminium for the bottom plate, 8mm for the rest of the hull and 6mm for deck and coachroof. By contrast, earlier models, including the Ovni 400, used 8mm alloy plate throughout. The Ovni 430 therefore has a lower centre of gravity and greater stability, yet the important bottom plating is thicker and more resistant to damage.

As standard the Ovni 430 has a conventional pin-head mainsail, with an 8m2 larger square-top sail as an option. Running backstays are needed for this configuration, though spreaders are well swept back, giving the rig support when gybing in lighter airs. In stronger breezes, with the first reef tucked in, the sail clears the runners, so both can be kept in tension. There’s a choice of a permanently rigged roller reefing staysail, as on our test boat, or a sail set flying on a furler that can be removed when not needed.

Both the deck saloon and the classic saloon option of the test boat (pictured) include a raised navstation. Photo: Christophe Favreau

Two easy steps behind each helm station lead to the side decks. Cap shrouds are taken to the outside of the hull, via substantial aluminium chainplates welded to the structure, while lower shrouds terminate next to the coachroof sides, leaving a clear passage along the side decks. However, trips to the foredeck in anything other than comfortable conditions should be rare.

Most controls, apart from jib, staysail and spinnaker sheets, are handled at the companionway, under the protection of the optional solid aluminium doghouse fitted to the test boat. This offers great protection from the elements, yet doesn’t interfere greatly with visibility from the twin helm stations.

Alubat offers a number of options for mainsail reefing, with the boat I sailed having a single line system for the first two reefs, plus separate leech and luff pennants for the third. Decent roller bearing cars for the luff track further ease the effort associated with handling the mainsail.

The raised nav station. Photo: Christophe Favreau

Three electric winches also help minimise physical effort. These include both primaries, which are ergonomically mounted inboard on pedestals aft of the seating around the cockpit table. The starboard companionway winch is also electric and is used for both the main halyard and the 700kg ballasted centreboard.

There are plenty of pockets for rope tails in the coamings, and under the inboard winch pedestals. Unlike earlier Ovni models the mainsheet is no longer taken to the stern arch, but still uses the same concept of identical systems port and starboard that are led to the coachroof instead. This works well, giving control of sail shape while also stabilising the boom. A smaller arch aft supports the dinghy davits, plus some of the solar panels and is more neatly integrated with the pushpits than on the 400.

Manageable volume

With one exception, changes to the interior of the new model are mostly minor compared to the 400. These include more volume in the forward owners cabin, plus a greater amount of stowage throughout. The wider forward hull sections allowed the front of the coachroof to be widened by 235mm, creating a greater feeling of space in the saloon without compromising side deck width.

Wider forward sections increase space in the owner’s cabin. Photo: Christophe Favreau

At the same time, freeboard is reduced by 9cm, lowering the boat’s centre of gravity and making it easier to step off onto a pontoon. A step down into the forward and aft cabins from the saloon means this was achieved without reducing headroom. The boom is also slightly lower and headsails are tacked a little lower, increasing sail area without adding air draught.

The big change for the interior of the Ovni 430 is a new deck saloon option. This variant has the same exterior dimensions and structure as the classic saloon on our test boat, but has a raised dining area that allows a view through the coachroof windows. By contrast, in the classic model when seated you can only see out through a single hull window each side in the saloon. Both versions also have a neat raised navstation that allows a view out of the coachroof windows.

The large linear galley to starboard, which benefits from good stowage and worktop space, is also common to both. Our test boat was equipped with a GN Espace marinised induction hob, electric gimballed oven, as well as space saving and ergonomic sinks and Gastronorm storage units and utensils from the same company.

A useful technical area aft of the heads includes a single bunk with an aluminium base under the mattress, allowing this area to double as a workbench. It also gives access to all the electrical components and the generator.

A large technical area includes plenty of space for genset and electronics. Photo: Christophe Favreau

Returning to port using 4.2kW of electric propulsion at an average speed of 4.5 knots gave plenty of time to pack the boat away, without depleting the battery bank more than necessary. At this point the OceanVolt display showed 82% charge remaining, with around 4.5 hours range left at that speed.

Above modest speeds wavemaking resistance increases exponentially, so boat speed of a shade over six knots required 22kW of power, equating to little more than an hour of range under electric power alone. Running the generator would double this and a larger genset could be installed to extend range at higher speeds to a level where diesel tankage is the key constraint.

The first boat’s Canadian owners, who bought an Ovni to fulfil a long-standing ambition of sailing across the Atlantic, are very happy with the system and installation. They have yet to need to run the generator in anger, though point out the Oceanvolt throttle control lacks the feel of a conventional unit, even though electric car manufacturers have solved this issue.

If you enjoyed this….

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The Ovni 430 is a new interpretation of a successful concept and a significant update, while still representing evolution rather than revolution. The changes may not appear major on paper, but they add up to a boat that’s easier and more appealing to spend long periods of time on board. It’s more manoeuvrable, yet also more reliable thanks to elements such as a tunnel bow thruster in place of a retractable unit, and the rope system for lifting the centreboard instead of hydraulics. In addition to well appointed arrangements on deck and neatly installed systems, the comfort factor is a very important attribute for Ovni’s customers and has been addressed successfully. Add in the low maintenance unpainted topsides and you get a very appealing result. As for the hybrid propulsion system, once more owners experience the benefits at first hand – including the quiet odour free operation, potential for significant range with long periods of autonomy, plus reduced maintenance – many more will surely opt for it.

Are Leopard Catamarans Good? A Complete Review

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Catamarans are popular with boat owners due to their excellent performance, stability, comfort, and airy living spaces. Leopard catamarans boast a long tradition of producing easy-to-handle vessels with spacious layouts and superior cruising capabilities. You’ve probably heard a thing or two about these popular boats, but let’s get the real deal about them in this review. 

Leopard catamarans are good because they are robust, spacious, well-built, and deliver an exceptional cruising performance. These cats are excellent for ocean crossings since they are safe, easy to handle, and fast. The main downside is that they are expensive.

Throughout this article, you’ll also discover the following about Leopard catamarans:

• The pros and cons of these catamarans
• How they compare with similar catamaran brands
• Frequently asked questions about Leopard catamarans plus their answers

Why You Might Want To Consider Getting a Leopard Catamaran

If you are in the market for a sailing catamaran, you may want to have a Leopard Catamaran among the options to consider. These ruggedly-built vessels are roomy, robust, and deliver superior cruising performance – some of the many reasons that would make any sailor want to get their hands on one. 

To understand more about these unique vessels, let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits of owning a Leopard Catamaran. 

They Boast a Solid Construction

Leopard Catamaran boats boast a superior and solid construction using advanced materials such as infused glass or PVC core construction. The boats come in innovative designs meant to be appealing, fun, spacious, and comfortable. Capable of ocean crossings, these sea-worthy blue water cruise boats have superb build quality, and they sail all over the world .

Robertson & Caine Factory in South Africa, producers of world-acclaimed racers and cruisers, are the boat builders behind Leopard Catamarans. These innovative, high-quality multihulls are serious contenders in the global catamaran market and enjoy dominance as the best-selling catamaran brand in North America. Indeed many Leopard cat owners are pretty happy with their model’s performance.

Balsa-­cored hulls and decks characterize these boats. This feature helps to provide maximum firmness while keeping weight to the minimum. In addition, solid fiberglass appears in all places with mounted hardware. 

Leopard catamarans provide one of the best examples of compromise between sail performance and interior volume. The hulls feature fine entry points and are deep and narrow beneath the waterline for enhanced performance in all conditions. However, they curve higher up to provide more accommodation space in the cabins and ample deck space. 

Most of the boats have shallow keels and are packed full of closed-cell polyurethane foam that helps boost buoyancy as well as hinder water ingress . Furthermore, both the stern and bow feature watertight bulkheads that play a crucial role in keeping out water in the unlikely event of a collision. The bulkheads thus go a long way in enhancing the vessel’s safety. 

Leopard Catamaran Boats Are Extremely Well-Built

If you are looking for a practical, efficient design and a stable platform, then you can’t go wrong with a Leopard Catamaran. Everything is laid out thoughtfully and logically in a way that makes perfect sense. For instance, the layout, starting from the helm placement, engine set up to the winches, is simple, well-organized, and easy to understand. 

Unlike most production catamarans that don’t offer great finishing touches, Leopard Catamarans are in a class of their own. Not only are the boats appealing and beautifully designed, but their finishing is also top-notch and depicts keen attention to detail. You will be hard-pressed to find exposed plywood in the drawers or nails that stick out. Instead, what you will find are sleek, luxurious finishes.

Everything on the Leopard cat is easily accessible through panels. The top-quality components also bear clear labels making them easy to identify. Better yet, the raised helm station provides panoramic visibility with sight lines clear and unobstructed and quick access to winches and sheets. An accompanying manual is at hand to offer wiring, plumbing, and mechanical diagrams, and all the parts are readily available. 

They Deliver a Great Performance

These boats come with a robust sail plan that allows for good sailing speeds. They are quite reliable, and their simple systems ensure that the boats perform admirably in all wind conditions, whether in a marina or out in the ocean. 

The efficient hulls deliver maximum speeds of 24knots+ (44.4 km/hr) and cruising speeds of 18knots ( 33.3 km/hr). This translates to lower fuel consumption, less horsepower, and a much longer range than similar sized power catamarans.

It’s important to note here that most catamaran buyers are first-time owners looking at their catamarans as second homes. As such, they are far more concerned with their comfort at anchor than speed underway.

They Are Spacious and Comfortable

A Leopard Catamaran boat is built to provide optimal livability and adequate space for both friends and family. And for those who choose to live onboard, it’s the perfect home away from home. The boat’s easy-to-handle features and handholds offer immense practicality and enhanced safety for those sailors desiring to venture out on long cruising voyages or ocean crossings.

The boat’s spacious cabins are both functional and comfortable. They offer adequate storage space in cabinets, under the beds, and on the floor. The galley has favorable spacing, too, including large counter spaces, and can accommodate more than one person at a time without a hassle.  

To ensure lower resistance and less pitching motion, these vessels come with sharp bows. Also, the transoms are wide and offer excellent access to the water, while wide aft sections allow optimal load carrying.

The rock-solid hulls provide superior bridge deck clearance , which is critical for many boat owners. What this means is that you hardly hear slamming except in stormy weather. The anchoring system has a suitably concealed location on the forward deck, thus preventing rust, mud, and fouling of chain on hulls. And depending on the weather, the main saloon can either open or close to the aft cockpit.   

No-maintenance hard tops cover the aft and forward cockpits and the helm station, thus providing protection from extreme sunny conditions. 

The Boats Offer Excellent Social Areas

A Leopard Catamaran comes with two areas that are suitable for all your social needs; the forward cockpit and the topside lounge. The large, well-laid cockpit offers direct access into the main saloon and presents an excellent area for kicking back and relaxing due to its lavish spacing. The opportunity to have fresh flowing air throughout the boat is delightful. 

In addition, it allows direct access to the transoms as well as adequate room for dive tanks, a BBQ, and additional tankage. You can enjoy incredible sunrises or sunsets here as well as privacy while in marinas or at anchor, not to mention the excellent ventilation. 

The other superb social spot is the spacious lounge space which comes equipped with permanently fixed cushions and tables. This space offers an additional area for all your socializing and entertaining. Located at the roof, the lounge provides great visibility, plus you can access it directly from the deck. 

This lounge poses no interference with the helm station, and you can still communicate with the latter from here. What’s more, it’s perfectly safe to stay here while the vessel is under sail. You can choose to spend quiet evenings relaxing or listening to music at anchor. 

They Are High on Safety

A great plus with these catamarans is that they come with in-built safety features. For starters, the forward cockpit provides a natural, safe zone for you and your family to sit and enjoy your breakfast as you watch the horizon. You don’t have to worry about your kids going on deck untethered.

Secondly, every line comes back to the helm. This well-thought-out safety feature means that you can control everything on the boat from the helm station. Hence, you never have to be out there in foul weather adjusting the sails. 

Again, the centrally-located helm station provides additional safety, and the person on sailing watch does not get cut off from the rest of the people. In any case, having the helm station placed towards the edge of the boat is not safe since it makes overnight passage in rough seas rather dangerous.

Overall, the high-quality construction plus outstanding stability in a wide range of sea conditions make you feel safe at all times.

They Are Comfortable in All Conditions

Leopard Catamarans are comfy while out at sea and anchor. They come designed in such a way that the door to the forward access plus the sliding glass door aft maintain a steady and comfortable airflow. Furthermore, the protected helm station is quite useful when the flybridge gets too cold, or there’s pouring rain. 

Featuring a wide array of creature comforts, the cruising vessels provide you with access to amenities such as a large and efficient refrigerator and freezer, ice maker, washing machine, water storage, and air conditioning. The expansive living spaces are also quite appealing to live-aboard cruising families and couples.

They Are Easy To Handle

You can sail a Leopard Catamaran single-handed. This feature endears these sailing vessels to many sailors who might prefer minimal crew or to have a boat all to themselves. Moreover, the dedicated, well-protected helm station comes specially designed for offshore single-handed sailing, while rudder positioning behind the prop allows for better maneuverability. 

The helm station provides direct access plus visibility to the aft cockpit as well as ready access to the foredeck and side decks. You also get full visibility to the upper lounge, stearns and bows, and the mainsail through the skylight.

The Boats Have a High Resale Value

Both chartered and privately-owned Leopard catamarans offer a high resale value though owner version catamarans tend to command a much higher price. This is primarily due to their comfort and ease of handling. The Leopard Catamarans brand is also well-known thanks to their award-winning models.

Leopard Catamarans Are Easy To Maintain

Leopard cats are pretty easy to maintain and only require regular cleaning and routine maintenance to remain in good working condition. The boats have easy-to-clean interiors and exteriors, which makes this routine maintenance less of a chore.

Additionally, boat parts are easily available given the standardized systems across the Leopard line of boats and the considerable quantities the company manufactures. You can replace most of the parts on your own, too, if you have mechanical skills.

As an owner, you also get support at any corner of the world as Leopard Catamarans has offices and bases worldwide.

Downsides of Leopard Catamarans

Some of the disadvantages of Leopard Catamarans boats include the following:

• They tend to be more expensive than other catamaran brands.
• Balsa-­cored boats tend to suffer moisture incursion. Hence it would be best if you inspected deck fittings regularly.
• Some boats experienced structural issues on the aft bulkhead and between the saloon and cockpit in the areas above the door frame.
• The saloon seat cushions are too narrow, soft, and slippery in some models.

How To Maintain Your Leopard Catamaran

A well-maintained Leopard Catamaran can last for many years. But that’s not all. Following basic yacht maintenance rules ensures that your boat doesn’t depreciate , thus fetching you a better price if you decide to upgrade. To keep your vessel in top condition, follow the below suggestions:

• Keep your Leopard Catamaran clean and updated with routine maintenance. Wash the boat, keep it clean, tidy, and well-organized, and don’t forget to conduct oil, fuel, filter, and zinc changes. Ensure to keep the stainless steel appliances clean and lubricate equipment like the wrenches, autopilot, lines, and rigging to avoid rust buildup.
• Install solar panels plus a wind generator. This is especially key if you plan on going on long cruises since it allows you to be more self-supporting while at anchor.
• Conduct preventive maintenance. This includes fixing window seals to prevent leaks and replacing recurrent wear items such as the rigging, anchor chain, sails, and seadek.
• Consider doing upgrades to make your boat more comfortable, stylish, and even more marketable. These include items such as electronics, air conditioning, upholstery, and the engine.

Here is a video giving a detailed look into the kind of maintenance costs you might incur with your Leopard Catamaran:

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Leopard Catamarans, plus their answers:

Is a Forward Cockpit Safe for Long Passages?

Yes, the boat is safe for ocean crossings. A Leopard Catamarans forward cockpit comes with a sealed hatch that prevents water from getting inside. Furthermore, the space has numerous structured openings that allow any storm waters that get in to drain out super fast.   

Is It Possible To Sail a Leopard Catamaran on Your Own?

Yes, it is. All lines lead back to the helm station so you can control everything on the boat from a single point. The presence of two independent engines and propellers also makes it easier to maneuver the boat, particularly in a marina. 

Can a Leopard Catamaran Sail Fast?

A Leopard Catamaran is designed for cruising. Therefore, the boat might sacrifice some level of performance for the comfort of the owner and his family or guests. However, this boat is still faster than a similar-sized monohull though upwind journeys might be slower due to a lower capacity to point towards the wind.

Can a Leopard Catamaran Cross the Ocean?

Most certainly! These great vessels are not only safe, stable, and fast, but they are also capable of taking long cruises and ocean crossings. What’s more, they have the fuel and water storage capacity to allow for such an undertaking.

What Is the Difference Between a Leopard Sail Catamaran and a Power Catamaran?

Sail catamarans like the Leopard 40, 45, 50, and 58 have additional space below for more convenience. This includes a lounge with a seating area, sunbed, and table, a well-protected helm station that’s integrated into the cockpit, and even a lounging flybridge accommodation.

Power Catamarans like the Leopard 39, 43, and 53 are mid-sized catamarans featuring the stepped hull design. This allows for more accommodation space without decreased yacht performance, tremendous speeds -up to 24 knots ( 44.4km/hr) – and outstanding fuel efficiency. They all boast stability, durability, space, efficiency, luxury, and ease of handling. 

Leopard Catamaran boats have a better build than other similar catamaran brands. They also provide a better performance, more comfort, and higher value. With the experience garnered from producing numerous charter boats, plus their active response to customer feedback, Leopard Catamarans has learned to build the kind of boats that people genuinely enjoy sailing. 

So, if you are keen to get yourself a Leopard Catamaran, start by determining your budget. Next, look through the various models within the Leopard line, attend boat shows, and you are sure to find a Leopard Catamaran that meets your fancy. To happy sailing!

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!

2 thoughts on “ Are Leopard Catamarans Good? A Complete Review ”

You tube travel sketch would disagree with you 🙄 😒 😑

Which video are you thinking about? Would be interesting to see 🙂

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Aventura 44-S - A new flagship catamaran to replace the 44

Article published on 04/05/2022

By Emmanuel van Deth

published in n°183 may / june

This new model announced for late 2023 is not simply a restyle: the Aventura Catamarans shipyard unveiled a proper replacement for their Aventura 44 at the International Multihull Show.

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Ultimately christened the 44-S rather than 43.5, this Lasta Design plan manages to offer up to six cabins and four bathrooms thanks to companionways in the cockpit. This modern design catamaran, that’s now the largest model in the Aventura Catamarans sailboat range, also offers a large flybridge and a mid-height helm station, as well as a maneuvering station for sail controls. Its price - €485,000 before tax - is particularly well positioned, already earning the builder many firm orders from the presentation of the 3D views! Builder: Aventura Catamarans Architect: Lasta Design Length: 44’3” (13.5 m) Beam: 24’7” (7.5 m) Displacement: 26,235 lbs (11.9 t) Sail area: 1,238 sq ft (115 m²) Price: € 485,000 ex-tax

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