new leopard 40 catamaran price

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Leopard 40 catamaran.

The recently redesigned Leopard 40 sports an increased interior volume and modern interior layout. A unique saloon to bow access door gives easy access for sunbathing and chilling out on the deck. With a bright and uncluttered design and a helm with excellent visibility, the Leopard 40 provides the safety expected for the bluewater lifestyle in a comfortable package.

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DESIGN – INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

Designed and built by South African firm Robertson & Caine and along with Naval Architects Simonis-Voogd, the Leopard 40 attempts to set a new standard for cruising catamarans. Based on customer and owner feedback, the most recent Leopard 40 has a redesigned configuration. As an evolution of the Leopard 39 design, the increase in hull volume, innovative interior layout, and enlarged windows and doors give the impression of a much larger catamaran.

The aft cabins have been redesigned and now have semi-island berths, improved access steps, recessed LED strip lighting as well as more space overall than the previous version. Within the owner’s suite, the desk and storage units have been repositioned to allow for a more refined and practical layout. 

Short-handed sailing is made easy as all lines run back to the helm, all within reach, and with an electric winch for convenient control. The helm offers superb visibility to all corners of the boat and is easily accessible from the cockpit and deck. The cockpit has a full hardtop cover and a hard Bimini protecting the helm station. One of the biggest drawcards of this model is the forward access door at the front of the saloon, which accesses a semi-covered outdoor lounge area, perfect for relaxing and watching the world go by.

The Leopard 40 is available in two versions, a three cabin and two head version, or a four cabin and two head version. Customizable with your choice of interior and exterior colors, as well as a comprehensive list of optional equipment from reputable brands, the Leopard 40 can be outfitted to suit your intended sailing method and lifestyle.

The well thought out design of the Leopard 40 provides the comfort and safety expected for the Bluewater lifestyle. The deck is clear and uncluttered, hatches are finished flush, and numerous grab handles are well positioned for safe sailing.

The Leopard 40 has a forward deck area accessible from the saloon, but unlike the larger boats by Leopard , this area is not a dedicated cockpit. Although, with the addition of some cushions, the area would make a great space to lounge when the sun is shining from aft and it does provide some shade with the extended brow / louvre. There is good under-deck storage in the foredeck area where the optional generator is stowed. Ample space is available on the deck suitable to store your favorite watersports equipment, such as paddleboards and kayaks.

Handholds are installed along the entire top of the cabin, providing safe access to and from the deck. However, the steps that provide access to the cabin top are challenging, especially if the area is wet. The sail controls are simple, and the helm station is raised to provide an excellent position to sail from and to simply enjoy the views.

The latest model, Leopard 40 has a reinvented saloon and galley with an open-air concept that is a fusion of the indoor and outdoor living spaces. The large forward window and access door, combined with the sliding windows and doors aft provide occupants an almost all-round view from the saloon. While the smoke grey-tinted saloon windows and rectangular side windows, give the catamaran a very modern look.

The internal volume of this catamaran has been maximized by the design that incorporates vertical sides to the saloon. The saloon lounge is L shaped and located against the aft sliding windows, it contributes to the large open space feeling, and the saloon and cockpit areas become one. The generous interior dining area can seat eight comfortably, and the dining table converts into an additional double berth.

The oversized vertical forward window and door to access the bow area increase the natural light in the interior. The galley in the latest model has been relocated, facing forward beside the foredeck door, and is also an L shaped configuration. The modern galley is well finished and supplied complete with large Corian countertops, deep stainless steel sink, front-opening energy-saving fridge/freezer, and a three burner stovetop and oven.

ACCOMMODATIONS

The Leopard 40 is available with either a 3 or 4 cabin layout. The increased volume in the hulls is noticeable in the generous size of the cabins and berths, with both layouts providing excellent comfort in all cabins with ample storage lockers. In addition, the light interior fit out in the owners, and guest cabins add to the open and airy feeling.

The three cabin layout has two guest cabins in the port hull, sharing a good-sized head complete with shower. The owner’s cabin fills the entire starboard hull. The spacious berth is situated aft and comes complete with a vanity table/desk and adequate storage space. It also has a sliding entry door for privacy. A private head and shower are located forward in the hull in the owner’s version. And this private head and shower are replaced by an additional double berth in the four cabin version.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• LOA: 39 ft 4 in / 11.99 m 
• LWL: 38 ft 1 in / 11.62 m 
• Beam: 22 ft 1 in / 6.72 m 
• Draft: 4 ft 5 in / 1.35 m 
• Mast Height: 63 ft 10 in / 19.45 m 
• Bridgedeck Clearance: 2 ft 4 in / 0.7 m 
• Engine: 2x 29 hp 
• Engine No. Cylinders: 3 
• Fuel: 95 gal / 360 L 
• Water: 206 gal / 780 L 
• Mainsail Area (Standard): 445 sqft / 41.4 sqm 
• Mainsail Area (Square Top): 607 sqft / 56.4 sqm 
• Genoa Area: 425 sqft / 39.5 sqm 
• Spinnaker Area: 1292 sqft / 120 sqm 
• Code 0 Area: 580 sqft / 53.9 sqm 
• Total Upwind Area (Standard): 871 sqft / 80.9 sqm 
• Displacement: 23215 lbs / 10530 kg 
• Load Carrying Capacity: 9612 lbs / 4360 kg 
• Holding Tank Capacity: 29 gal / 110 L 
• First Built: 2008 
• Builder: Robertson and Caine
• Designer: Simonis Voogd

PRICE RANGE

The Leopard 40 is available for approx. $500,000. Expect another $100,000 to fully equip it with everything need to be ready to go cruising.

The design of the Leopard 40 is well thought out. The open-air concept combining the interior and exterior areas creates a comfortable and enjoyable living space from the front deck, through the saloon, and extending out to the cockpit. The accommodations are well-sized, light, and well ventilated. The forward-facing galley is modern, well finished, and practical. Overall this catamaran, with its large interior volume and well thought out design, would provide an exceptional level of comfort and safety to those who wish to enjoy the Bluewater cruising lifestyle.

Leopard 40 Specs

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Boat Review: Leopard 40 Power Cat

• By Mark Pillsbury
• October 23, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leopard 40 Power Cat Specifications

• More: Boat Review , catamaran , leopard catamarans , power cat , Print August 2023
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Are Leopard Catamarans Still Worth The High Price?

South African boat builders Robertson and Caine worked with international naval architects Morrelli, Melvin, and Simonis Voogd to design their Leopard Catamaran range.

These catamarans are known to be spacious, comfortable, and performance-driven bluewater cruising catamarans. In addition, Leopard catamarans are the only catamaran brand certified in Europe (CE certification) and the US (NMMA Certified).

These South African-built boats have a reputation for being robust enough for ocean crossings, extremely spacious, easy to handle, and expensive.

Here’s Why Leopard Catamarans Are Worth Their High Price:

Leopard Catamarans are worth their high price because they are extremely well-built with high-quality finishes. Initially designed for the charter market, they became so popular that the company expanded into the private market offering a choice of layouts and semi-custom options.

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A Brief History Of Leopard Catamarans:

In 1991, John Robertson and Jerry Caine started a boat building company in Woodstock, a suburb of Cape Town, South Africa. The company earned a solid reputation for building custom racing yachts and production cruisers.

By 1994, as the company became known, Robertson and Caine were approached by the leading global yacht charter company, The Moorings, to produce specifically designed, spacious catamarans for its charter fleet.

The company successfully delivered 100 new catamarans to The Moorings in less than 4 years!

Plus, they sailed every catamaran from Cape Town to various charter destinations worldwide, proving their robust design and blue water capabilities.

Six years later, Robertson and Caine started to manufacture catamarans for the private market, and in 2020 the brand Leopard Catamarans was introduced. Sailors worldwide were impressed with this new line of catamarans. The custom ‘owner’ versions became very popular for private use, with owners able to choose their layout, plus any optional equipment and even their delivery location.

In 2007, Leopard Catamarans tested the luxury power catamaran market by introducing the Leopard 47 power catamaran. The Leopard 47 power cat was a great success with its stylish, good looks and remarkable fuel efficiency.

Today Leopard Catamarans offers a range of both sailing and power catamarans from 40 to 53 feet, and the company has delivered more than 2,500 Leopard Catamarans worldwide. They have become one of the industry’s leaders in producing and delivering quality catamarans for private use and charter fleets worldwide.

Catamaran Or Monohull? Check out our 27 Important Facts to know!

How Much Exactly Do Leopard Catamarans Cost?

Leopard Catamarans don’t come cheap.

If you are in the market for a new catamaran, then a Leopard will set you back anything from $569,000 for their smaller 42-foot 2023 basic sailing catamaran model, and that’s if you pick it up in Cape Town! A new Leopard 40 power catamaran will cost $769,000 for the basic 2023 model.

However, second-hand catamarans are available if you can’t afford a new model. A quick search on Yachtworld.com came up with a Leopard 38 from 1999 that is on the market for $198,000. Plus, Leopard Catamarans themselves have a yacht brokerage for their second-hand models. At the time of writing, prices there start from $219,900.

In general, 85% of all Leopard Catamarans go into the charter market for their first 5 years. Charter companies prefer the 4 cabins with 4 heads version because they generate more income than the owner’s version, which only has 3 cabins.

The new market for most boats is the 4 cabin version.

The second-hand market for Leopard Catamarans generally prefers the owner versions because they normally have had less use and are in demand by live-aboard cruisers. As fewer of these owner versions are around, they tend to go for higher prices.

Do Leopard Catamarans Cost More Than Similar Brands?

Similar brands of catamarans include Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot, Nautitech, and Catana. The prices of new catamarans are not widely available and will come down to the layout, the basic boat package, and any added-on options.

However, we can make a price comparison of similar second-hand models from the same or similar years.

[Info Courtesy of Yachtworld.com, July 2022]

At first glance, the Leopard Catamaran is not the most expensive, but it is the cheapest. As for value, you would have to take a more in-depth look at the inventory and the boat’s overall condition to get a better idea of whether these boats are good value for money.

In addition, if you are buying a second-hand catamaran, or indeed any boat, it is always recommended to have an independent marine survey carried out to identify any unseen problems.

Why Do People Choose Leopard Over The Competition?

The following are reasons why people choose Leopard over other catamaran brands:

• Leopard Catamarans claim that their boats are of a superior and more solid construction compared to other brands.
• The boats are beautifully and practically designed for simple sailing and living aboard.
• Leopard Catamarans boasts a finish that is in a class of its own.
• They deliver excellent performance in all conditions – under sail, under motor, or at anchor.
• The boats are spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and space for family and friends to stay aboard and socialize.
• Leopard Catamarans score big on safety with plenty of handholds, grab rails, and attachment points. Plus, all lines return to the cockpit, so you don’t have to go on deck in bad weather.

Do Leopard Catamarans Keep Their Value Better?

The value of a catamaran largely depends on how well the boat has been maintained and looked after. However, catamarans tend to hold their value well, particularly Leopard Catamarans.

This can be attributed to the availability of new catamarans being fairly limited as there are not so many catamaran manufacturers around. Most manufacturers have full order books and waiting lists for their boats, which keeps the resale value of catamarans much higher than monohulls or other yachts.

Each year the price of new catamarans tends to increase more quickly than the equivalent monohull. So this also helps to keep the value on second-hand catamarans.

In addition, roughly 85% of Leopard Catamarans are built for the charter market. While some people may be averse to buying an ex-charter boat, they tend to be of great value as they have been professionally serviced and maintained throughout their charter life.

If a Leopard Catamaran has been well looked after, it will keep its value and will possibly be better than other brands.

What Are Typical Alternatives To Leopard Boats?

While you might be in the market for a Leopard Catamaran, there are good alternatives to consider:

Lagoon Catamarans

Lagoon Catamarans are one of the main alternatives to Leopard Boats.

The French company has been building sailing and power catamarans since 1984 and has produced more than 5,800 multihulls.

Today the company still offers both sailing and luxury power cats from 40 to 78 feet.

Fountaine Pajot

Fountaine Pajot is another famous French boat builder who was founded in 1976.

They launched their first cruising sailing catamaran back in 1983 and began with their line of luxury power catamarans in 1998.

Today Fountaine Pajot offers a range of sailing and power catamarans ranging in size from 36 to 67 feet.

Catana Catamarans

Catana Catamarans is an additional French catamaran manufacturer on a much smaller scale than the previous two brands.

Catana has been a leader in producing high-performance catamarans since 1984. Over the years, they have built catamarans ranging in size from 42 to 70 feet.

As a smaller boatyard, they offer personalized services, and each new boat is designed in close collaboration with its future owner.

Nautitech Catamarans, also based in France, build around 80 catamarans annually.

Again, they are not one of the big-volume French manufacturers like Lagoon or Fountaine Pajot. Instead, Nautitech has positioned itself as a manufacturer concentrating on quality over quantity.

Today they offer a range of sailing catamarans from 40 to 46 feet and a 47-foot power catamaran. They have a reputation for building performance catamarans that combine comfort in their boats.

While all of the above are French catamaran builders, there are catamaran manufacturers based in the UK, the USA, and Australia. These other, mainly smaller boat builders offer high-performance catamarans that are not an alternative to a comfortable, robust cruising catamaran like a Leopard.

Do You Pay Full Price, Or Do Dealers Offer Discounts?

It’s a seller’s market for catamarans, with manufacturers having full-order books for the next 2 years. Most dealers have waiting lists of clients for catamarans, and Leopard is no different.

To get a discount, you may be able to negotiate with a dealer at a boat show, or the dealer may be able to offer discounts on any additional equipment or upgrades you might want to order.

However, don’t expect huge discounts as the dealers have little room to maneuver their prices. And with catamarans in such high demand, why should they offer discounts?

If you are looking for a great deal, you should take the time to look at the second-hand market. You might find a Leopard catamaran that is only a couple of years old with many upgrades and for a good price. 

References:

Leopard Catamarans

Leopard Brokerage

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Large Multihulls

• Voyage 380 Maxim (Indian Ocean)
• Outremer 50 Standard (Florida)
• Knysna 440 (Caribbean)
• Lagoon 42 (Caribbean)
• Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40 (Caribbean)
• Endeavour 44 TrawlerCat (Florida)
• Fountaine Pajot Helia 44 Evolution (South Pacific)
• Bali 4.1 (Italy)
• Leopard 46 (Caribbean)
• Lagoon 450S (Caribbean)
• Leopard 46 (Bahamas)
• Royal Cape 45 (Florida)
• Lagoon 450F (Florida)
• Endeavour Trawlercat 44 (Florida)
• Endeavour 44 SailCat (Florida)
• Lagoon 450 F (Florida)
• Lagoon 470 (Caribbean)
• Catana 471 (Bahamas)
• Privilege 42 (Florida)
• St. Francis 44 Mk II (Florida)
• Fountaine Pajot Athena 38 (Mexico Pacific)
• Crowther-Alwoplast 47 (Caribbean)
• Leopard 47 (Florida)
• Lagoon 380 (California)
• Sailcraft Apache 44 (Florida)
• Leopard 45 (Caribbean)

Leopard 40 (South Carolina)

• Custom Roake 50 (Guatemala)
• Lagoon 410 S2 (Caribbean)
• Lagoon 500 (Florida)
• Lagoon 50 (Greece)
• Leopard 39 PowerCat (Florida)
• Manta 40 Custom (California)
• Dean 440 (Florida)
• Lagoon 570 (South Pacific)
• Bali 4.0 Open Space (Caribbean)

Pocket Catamarans

• Fountaine Pajot Tobago 35 (Florida)
• Catalac 9m (Europe)
• Gemini 105MC (Greece)
• Lagoon 37 TPI (Florida)
• Corsair F28R (Texas)
• Endeavour Victory 35 (Mexico Pacific)
• Catalac 8M (Turkey)
• Gemini 105M (Florida)

Power Catamarans

Sale pending.

• Fountaine Pajot Helia 44 (Caribbean)
• Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40 Maestro Owner’s Version (South Carolina)
• Lagoon 42 (Florida)
• Fountaine Pajot 48 Custom (Florida)
• Lagoon 450 F Owners Version (Florida)

S/V Untethered is an owner version, never chartered or storm-damaged 2017 Leopard 40 catamaran, for sale by owner. US flagged with the duty tax paid.

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

Both port and starboard heads are electric, with fresh water flushing, which eliminates any odors. The port hull features two staterooms with closets and under-bed storage. The galley and salon have an abundant amount of room to move freely. You’ll feel right at home when preparing meals in the spacious galley. The side-by-side refrigerator/freezer is brand new.

In 2004, Leopard partnered with designers Morelli & Melvin for their Leopard 40 model. Between 2004 and 2009, Leopard produced 136 Leopard 40s before replacing it with the Leopard 39. Then, in 2014, Leopard engaged with Simonis Voogd Design to launch a newer Leopard 40 model that is still in production today with over 210 vessels produced.

The Leopard 40, a product of South African boat builders Robertson & Caine, features a unique, modern design thanks to experienced naval architects Simonis and Voogd as well as Robertson & Caine’s design team. She resembles her predecessors in speed, agility, and blue-water performance, but her enhancements include an increased hull volume and an innovative interior layout.

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

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

S/V Untethered is a perfect choice for sailing getaways or even a liveaboard. Schedule an appointment today for a private viewing.

Continue to S/V Untethered's Catamaran Photos

Layout Diagram

Catamaran Inventory

Construction, accommodations.

• 2 Electric fresh water flush toilets
• 2 Cruisair 16000 BTU cooling/heating units
• Rainman freshwater maker
• Brand New side by side freezer/refrigerator
• LP Gas stove
• LP gas oven

Electronics

• Raymarine Axiom 12 Chart Plotter
• Raymarine Auto pilot
• 1250 watts of solar
• 900 ah of lithium (house bank)
• Generator Northern Lights 6kw 2500 hrs.
• 3000 watt inverter/charger Victron

Deck & Hull

• (2) 50' 30 amp cables

Engines & Mechanical

• Yanmar 29hp
• Port 1680 hrs
• STBD 1740 hrs
• SD20 sail drives
• $11k service November '22
• 2019 Highfield CL310 Center console
• 20hp Suzuki

Navigation Equipment

• Raymarine P70 Auto Pilot
• Raymarine I70 depth sounder
• Raymarine Radar 4KW 18
• Fusion Stereo
• Life Raft (certification expired)
• 6 Life Jackets USCG Type 1

Anchor & Docking

• 200' anchor chain
• Several lines and fenders

Miscellaneous

• Comes with all bedding and kitchen supplies

Catamaran Photos

40ft Catamaran Models Comparisons

We compare specifications, dimensions, sail area, and pricing on the most popular 40ft catamarans in 2020.

Since 2016, Fountaine Pajot, Lagoon, Leopard, Bali, and Nautitech all rolled out new 40 ft catamaran models in a similar price range that are innovative, spacious, well-built, and comfortable. The latest model to be added to this 40ft array in 2020 is the Bali Catspace.

Bali has done away with the Bali 4.1 model and has designed the Bali Catspace with much improved and innovative features while Lagoon updated their popular L400 and redesigned it with the mast further back to accommodate a self-tacking jib, open scoops, and updated interior. The FP Lucia 40, released in 2016, has pretty much stayed the same, as has the Leopard 40. They are both very popular and successful cats. While the Nautitech Open 40 is a nice sporty sailing cat, it has not really taken hold in the US market with the aft helm stations.

These 40ft catamaran models are affordable and easily be handled by a coupled. It also has all the amenities suitable for a cruising boat such as an ice maker, washing machine, bigger fridge/freezer capacity, and big living spaces, which is very attractive for live-aboard cruising couples. 

The 40ft catamaran holds its value because it is in high demand on the used boat market. The 40ft catamaran size range just makes sense.

Read our previous 40ft comparison article for older models:  How Do The Most Popular 40-ft Production Catamarans Compare?

New 2020 40Ft Catamaran Comparison

The five main production catamaran contenders in 2020 for liveaboard couples are:

• BALI Catspace
• FP Lucia 40
• Nautitech 40 Open

40ft Catamaran Models Specifications

40ft catamaran deck & flybridge layout comparison, 40ft catamaran deck & flybridge layout comparisons, 40ft catamaran models sail plan comparisons, 40ft catamaran cabin layouts comparisons, 3-cabin layout, 4-cabin layout, reader's question answered: andy asked: "which cat is the best value and what do you budget for upgrades that deliver an above average sailing and comfort experience" .

The pricing for the different brands are generally in the same range since this a competitive space and the manufacturers have to make sure they are not priced out of the market. There are essentially no “bad catamarans”. Most are all built to recognized and enforced codes such as the European CE standard, so it comes down to personal preference. Some boats have Balsa cores and others have closed cell foam cores. Some have large nets, others have small nets and some have no nets.

All the forward deck designs are acceptable and safe, as we have now conclusively seen over the last five years. The current trend is smaller nets and larger foredeck areas for the most part on cruising cats. Performance cats all have nets and longer bows and are a different category to the production cruisers. Lagoon has the biggest living space, Bali has the best live-ability overall and FP and Leopard are very popular for couples with the semi-raised helm position but that too is a personal preference.

In terms of the extras or additional options, I normally recommend the following:

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

Which Is Your Favorite 40ft Catamaran?

So many cruisers and liveaboard couples choose their dream boats from this new 40ft catamaran market. Which is your favorite catamaran and why? Leave your comment below!

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10 thoughts on “40ft Catamaran Models Comparisons”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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• Cabins: 3 or 4
• Heads: 3 or 4
• Berths: 6 or 8
• Showers: 3 or 4 (plus transom)

SPECIAL OFFER

• LOA: 41 ft 7 in / 12.67 m
• LWL: 40 ft 10 in / 12.44 m
• Beam: 23 ft 1 in / 7.04 m
• Draft: 4 ft 7 in / 1.4 m
• Mast Height: 67 ft 10 in / 20.68 m
• Bridgedeck Clearance: 2 ft 6 in / 0.75 m
• Engine: 2 x Yanmar 45HP Diesel engine with saildrive
• Fuel: 158 gal / 600 L

EXTRA DETAILS

• Bunk Dimensions:  View Leopard Range Bunk Dimensions
• Headroom:  View Leopard Range Headroom Dimensions
• Water: 174 gal / 660 L
• Mainsail Area (Standard): 717 sqft / 66.6 sqm
• Mainsail Area (Square Top): 755 sqft / 70.1 sqm
• Genoa Area: 501 sqft / 46.5 sqm
• Spinnaker Area: 1686 sqft / 156.6 sqm
• Code 0 Area: 676 sqft / 62.8 sqm
• Code D Area: 1022 sqft / 94.9 sqm
• Total Upwind Area (Standard): 1217 sqft / 113.1 sqm
• Polars:  View Leopard 42 Performance Documents
• Displacement: 30183 lbs / 13691 kg
• Load Carrying Capacity: 11056 lbs / 5015 kg
• Holding Tank Capacity: 44 gal / 166 L

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2016 Leopard 40

Clearwater, united states of america (the) sale pending, $340,000 tax paid.

Yacht Overview

Leopard Brokerage is Proud to Present this  Owners Version Leopard 40 Listing "Freebird" Located in Clearwater, FL. Never Chartered, low hours and Ready to go!  Recent survey available, please inquire. 

Less than 400k for an owner version non-chartered, non-damaged Leopard 40, incredible value!

2016 ROBERTSON AND CAINE LEOPARD 40 – Freebird - Owners Version 3 Cabin

  BROKERS REMARKS:   “Freebird” is a 2016 Leopard 40, Privately Owned, Never Chartered, Owners Version (3 Cabin) Layout with with many great options installed from the factory. She has low hours on the Yanmar diesels (approx. 550hrs.), and on the Northern Lights 6kW generator (89hrs.).  There has been much recent service perfromed including; bottom job, new Vitrifrigo fridge/freezer unit, engine alternators, Victron inverter with display, engine water pumps, and many numerous odds and ends fixes that come with keeping a boat in good running order.

Some great features of "Freebird" include a bowsprit with lightly used Code 0 sail, flexible solar panels, AB dinghy with 9.9Hp Yamaha (less than 20 hours), cockpit cushions, FLIR infrared camera, radar, air conditioning (serviced), and an upgraded Raymarine Axiom 12 display at the helm.

BUILDERS REMARKS : The Leopard 40 features a unique, modern design thanks to experienced naval architects Simonis and Voogd as well as Robertson & Caine's design team. She resembles her predecessors in speed, agility, and blue-water performance, but her enhancements include an increased hull volume and an innovative interior layout.  Like the rest of the Leopard line the new Leopard 40 includes a light blonde interior with a light, modern and airy feel. However, her interior salon layout is unlike any Leopard before her. Her galley is located forward and the forward-facing settee and table are now located aft. This allows for a panoramic view with large sliding glass doors between the saloon and the aft cockpit. This arrangement promotes easy communication for guests and an open flow between the saloon and the aft cockpit, creating a fusion of indoor and outdoor living space.

In addition, the galley area includes a large forward-facing window and an access door to the forward platform of the boat. The access door enhances the open concept feel and easy navigation in and around the yacht. It also promotes ventilation throughout the interior. The raised helm station is accessible from the cockpit and side deck, allowing for easy shorthanded sailing and keeping the helmsman close to family and friends. With more than 1000 sq. ft of sail area and an optimized hull design, like all Leopard Catamarans, the Leopard 40 is built to a high standard of speed and agility.  You can customize your Leopard 40 with a choice of interior and exterior coloring as well as an extensive list of options and equipment from industry-leading suppliers to suit your needs underway, crossing oceans, on the dock or at anchor.

AVAILABILITY: Immediatey in Clearwater, FL

• AB Inflatable with 9.9Hp Yamaha (less than 20 hrs)
• 29 hp Yanmar engines
• Bowsprit with Code 0,
• 2X 70 Watt Solar Panels,
• 2KW  Inverter/Battery charger with Monitor
• 600Ah AGM house batteries
• 2X Electric Flush toilets,
• Interior Salon Blinds
• Hot/Cold stern shower
• Large Magma propane BBQ fitted aft
• Custom Aft Cockpit Cushions in Navy Blue 
• Electric Stainless Steel Davits

Recent Service: 

• Bottom Job 8/22
• Engines and AC lines flushed with Barnacle Buster 8/22
• 2 new electrical heads with pumps 8/22
• Inverter/charter 9/22
• Alternators on both engines 1/23
• New raw water pumps on both engines
• New Yanmar gauges on both engines
• New Vitrifrigo fridge/freezer 2/23
• Yamaha 9.9 dinghy outboard in 2021
• Detailed 6/23

Print Listing

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Basic Details

• Boat Name: FreeBird
• Make: Leopard
• Length: 40ft / 12.19m
• Location: Clearwater, US
• Price: $340,000
• Fuel Type: diesel
• Hull Material: Fiberglass
• Hull Construction: Composite Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) Sandwich with Balsa core
• Deck Material: Textured GRP
• Rudder Type: Balanced spade rudder
• Keel Type: Multihull
• Designer: Naval Architects Simonis-Voogd
• Where Built: South Africa
• HIN: RACB1013G516
• Layout (Cabins): 3
• Layout (Heads): 2
• LOA: 39 ft 4 in / 11.99 m
• LWL: 38 ft 1 in / 11.61 m
• Beam: 21 ft 1 in / 6.43 m
• Draft: 4 ft 1 in / 1.24 m
• Displacement: 20,591 lb / 9,340 kg

Engines and Controls

• Make: Yanmar
• Model: 3YM30-AE
• Type: Inboard
• Drive Type: Sail
• Prop Type: 2 Blade
• Engine Hours Run / Date: 550
• Controls: Morse
• Cooling System: Heat exchanger
• Capacity: 174.13L / 46USgal
• Material: Aluminum
• Capacity: 389.9L / 103USgal
• Material: Plastic
• Capacity: 90.85L / 24USgal

Accommodations

• Single Berths: 2
• Double Berths: 3

Electronics and Navigation

• Depthsounder: Raymarine i70
• Log Speedometer: GPS
• Wind Speed and Direction: Raymarine i70 & Windex
• GPS: Raymarine Axiom 12
• Compass: Plastimo Contest 130
• Autopilot: Raymarine p70
• VHF: Raymarine Ray 55 at switchpanel & remote at helm
• Radar: HD Colour Rad and AIS 650 Transceiver
• TV Set: In salon and master stateroom
• Radio: Fusion
• Battened Mainsail: Ullman, with Antal system
• Furling Genoa: Ullman
• Gennaker/Cruising Spinnaker: Yes
• Lazy Bag: Ullman
• Genoa Winches: (2) Lewmar 45ST, 2 spd, Self-tailing – (1) Electric
• Main Halyard Winch: Electric Genoa Winch
• Type of Rig: Sloop
• Spar Maker / Material: Z Spars Z Diffusion / Aluminium
• Standing Rigging Material: Stainless steel wire
• Running Rigging Material: Cored braided line
• Mainsail Reefing: Slab single line reefing
• Headsail Roller Furling: Yes
• Electric Winch: Yes

Inside Equipment

• Electric Bilge Pump: 4 x automatic with float switches and alarms in main hulls and engine rooms
• Manual Bilge Pump: 2 x in main hulls
• Air Conditioning: Cruisair 2 x 16000 Btu
• Hot Water: (2) hot water tanks 12 gal/ 46L total
• Fresh Water Pump: Hot and cold fresh water Jabsco Parmax 3.5gal/min with accumulator tank
• Washing Machine: Yes
• Cooker Type: Eno stove top
• Microwave Oven: Yes
• Sink: (1) Basin in galley and dish drainer
• Electric Head: (2) Jabsco electric flush
• Showers: (2) plus transom shower
• Handbasins: (2)
• Upholstery/Color Scheme: Ash naugehyde in saloon and striped cotton covers in cabins
• Interior Construction/Wood Type: Ash laminate and white corian counters
• Refrigerator: Vitrifrigo DT Series 12v - 2 drawer 56gal/212L
• Blinds: In Saloon

Electrical Equipment

• Shore Power: (2) 50' 30amp cables
• Electrical Circuit: 110V
• Battery Charger: 2 kW Inverter/Battery charger with monitor
• Inverter: Victron
• Generator: Northern Lights 6kW
• House Batteries: (3) 4D 600Ah AGM
• Engine Batteries: (2) GP27 100Ah
• Generator Batteries: (1) GP27 100Ah gen

Deck Equipment

• Steering System: Wheel
• Steering Wheel: Yes
• Bimini Top: Hardtop
• Solar Panel: (2) Sunware 70w mounted on hardtop
• Swimming Ladder: Yes
• Cockpit Shower: Yes
• Davits: Yes
• Outboard Engine: 9.9hp (4) Stroke Yamaha
• Dinghy: Yes
• Fenders: Yes
• Cockpit Table: Yes
• Grill / BBQ: Large Magma propane BBQ
• Anchor Windlass: Quick 1000W, Electric
• Primary Anchor: Delta with approx. 200ft chain
• Deck Wash: Fresh/salt
• Safety Equipment: 8 Person Viking Liferaft (needs recertification), Lifejackets

The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.

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