Lagoon 570 Catamaran Review – Sailing in Comfort!

The Lagoon 570 was one of the first sailing yachts I was fortunate enough to experience. The 570 is one of the first models of Lagoon catamarans and is one of my favorite boats.

It’s true when it’s said that you never forget your first love, and I have hardly forgotten my affection for these yachts.

Lagoon Cats have remained my go-to sailing vessel, and this Lagoon 570 Catamaran review will explain why I have been a loyal follower of these boats since I first stepped foot aboard the 570.


Accommodation

The purpose of the 570 was to allow passengers to sail in luxury, but I doubt that the vessel intended for passengers to spread out and not move a muscle for a solid week.

I can’t say that is what I did, but I was tempted. That is how comfortable and spacious the 570 was. I could sleep anywhere on this boat without feeling cramped or in an odd position.


Under Sail

The 570 displays considerable power and handles well in moderate winds. I was surprised that the controls only took a light hand and were very easy to get the hang of before I felt completely comfortable at the helm.

The vessel remains strong and steady as it slices through the wind. The 570 isn’t a speedboat, but it is still an impressive boat.


Interior

Teak wood paneling and floors give the boat a homey feel while the lines are kept clean and rounded.

The galley is accessible from the welcoming saloon, which has plenty of room for all the comforts of home.

I enjoyed kicking my feet up for a meal below deck as I gazed out of the windows and took in the view and the sunshine without being out in the elements.



Exterior

Above the deck, the teak wood makes an appearance, leading to the attractive appearance of the boat.

There is a lounge area that quickly became a much sought-after spot for all the passengers.

I appreciated the overall width of the boat that made moving from one end of the boat to the other convenient and without all the twisting and turning required to navigate narrower above-deck walkways.


Comparison with the Lagoon 560

The 570 isn’t exactly what I would call “intimate”, but the Lagoon 560 is a massive vessel.

I like space and room to move, but the 560 can be a bit overkill. If you have a lot of guests and need the space, the 560 is probably your best bet, but I suggest the 570 for a smaller group.

You will still have plenty of room, but you won’t feel as isolated on a boat full of people as you might on the 560.

The 560 is basically an enlarged version of the 570, but it is slow due to being bogged down from its increased size.


Why Sail the Lagoon 570

  • Spacious above and below deck
  • Windows offer incredible views and natural sunlight
  • Attractive interior and exterior designs are tastefully done
  • Luxurious lounge, saloon, and cabins
  • The cockpit is protected from the weather and the sun beating down
  • Lots of storage space
  • Deck and cockpit are easily accessible
  • Powerful under sail and performs well in choppy seas

In Conclusion

If you have a family or a group of friends looking for a yacht charter, you can end the search right now!

The 570 is the perfect vessel for a vacation with loved ones. I can testify to the appeal of the 570, and I will guarantee that you will enjoy every minute onboard!


Specifications

  • Length overall: 17,06 m
  • Beam: 9,15 m
  • Draft: 1,4 m
  • Engine: NEW 2 x 75 HP Volvo D2-75
  • Fuel tank: 750
  • Water tank: 1000
  • Mainsail: Standard
  • Genoa: furling
  • Cabins: 4
  • Berths: 9
  • Heads: 4

Have you sailed the Lagoon 570? If so, feel free to share your experience in the comment below.

Lagoon 380 S2 Catamaran Review – Fooling the Eye!

Lagoon 380 S2

The Lagoon 380 S2 is a remodeled version of the original 380 design. I always find it interesting to explore new designs of older models and pick out the differences between the yachts.

The 380S2 had many differences, but it was also a boat that can stand on its own. In comparison to other yachts, the 380S2 could be considered small, but that depends on the sailor and what they think is small.

I found the S2 comfortable without a lot of wasted space, which is a change in many Lagoon catamarans.


Accommodation

I have never felt that just because a boat has a lot of space, that it is a better design than other boats. I found the 380 S2 comfortable but compact and cozy.

The galley and saloon have plenty of room to prepare meals and dine as a group without climbing over each other, and the cabins are equipped with beds that you can stretch out on and there is a good amount of storage space throughout the vessel.


Under Sail 

Under sail, the 380 S2 does a fantastic job windward but tends to struggle in other conditions. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing if you are simply cruising around.

I enjoyed the slower pace and didn’t feel the need to speed it up unless we had to anyway. If you are looking for something more powerful, look at a bigger cat, but if power isn’t a concern, try the 380 S2.

I do feel I need to warn potential sailors that the 380 S2 has a flybridge design that is a bit high, which is not everyone’s cup of tea. Personally, I don’t have any issues with a high flybridge, but if you are sure a flybridge isn’t for you, move on to the next cat.


Interior

The interior of the 380 S2 is attractive and serviceable. There are touches of color here and there to please the eye, but I don’t really mind the interior design as long as it isn’t boring.

I thoroughly enjoyed the saloon booth and could sit for hours reading or chatting with my passengers. The below deck is a welcoming environment that puts everyone at ease and invites conversation.



Exterior

The 380 S2 fools the eye by appearing to be a very small vessel from the exterior, but the boat is, in fact, bigger than you would guess.

There is plenty of room for all passengers to lounge around and spend time together, but this space is at the expense of the cockpit.

The cockpit on the 380 S2 is small, and I found it cramped. The good thing about it is that the cockpit was the only place on the boat I felt was lacking in space, but it was still a little unpleasant.


Comparisons with 380

The greatest differences between the original Lagoon 380 and the 380 S2 seem to be mostly cosmetic.

Both vessels are very similar, right down to their faults. If pressed, I would choose the 380 S2 because the design is more modern and the boat itself is an updated design, but overall, they are not drastically different.


Why Sail the Lagoon S2

  • Though it looks small, there is a good amount of space on board
  • Performs well in windward conditions
  • Safe and stable even in poor weather
  • Comfortable accommodations for yourself and your passengers

In Conclusion

I enjoyed my trip out on the 380 S2 and would recommend the boat to anyone wanting a small boat with just the right amount of space. Yes, there are a few issues with the 380 S2, but they are mostly based on the personal preferences of the sailor.

If it wasn’t for my gripe with the cockpit, I would say that the 380 S2 is the total package! The cockpit can be overlooked in light of all the other positives the 380 S2 has to offer. I’d charter a 380 S2 again in a heartbeat, and you should, too!


Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Lagoon
  • Fuel tank: 100L
  • Fuel tank:100L
  • Freshwater tank: 350L
  • Blackwater tank: 2x of each 83 L
  • LOA: 11,55m
  • LWL : 11,50m
  • Beam: 6,53m
  • Draft: 1,15m
  • Cabins: 4 to 6
  • Berths:8 to 10

Have you sailed the Lagoon 380 S2? If so, feel free to share your experience in the comment below.

Lagoon 470 Catamaran Review – What Makes Her Popular for So Long?

Lagoon 470

The 470 is an update of the older Lagoon 47 that has withstood the test of time and numerous versions based on this original blueprint.

This Lagoon Catamaran 470 Review will go over the 470’s weak and strong points and concentrate on what has made this particular yacht popular for so long.

The yacht was designed with two things in mind: plenty of space and great performance. Combined, those two aspects have made for a boat that is a sailor’s favorite.


Accommodations

Space and openness are the keywords when describing the 470. The cabins, saloon, and galley are all roomy and comfortable, while the design and color choices make this boat sunny and cheerful.

There is also plenty of headroom, making the sailing experience that much better for tall passengers. The decks are given the same wide, easy-to-navigate spaciousness as the rest of the vessel.


Interior 

Typically, the Lagoon 470 has 4 cabins and 3 heads, all with plenty of space and comfortable furnishings.

There is a galley-up layout and a big saloon, both are easy to move around in, and the saloon has extra room for lounging and socializing.

The design of the interior was kept simple with lots of sunlight allowed in from the windows to brighten it up.



Exterior

The decks are wide and allow sailors to come and go without feeling crowded or cramped. The bridge has an incredible view, but so does nearly every angle on the boat. The 470 was designed with clean lines and a sturdy, lightweight shell that makes sailing feel effortless.


Under Sail

As with all Lagoon catamarans, the boat is easy to control, and even novice skippers do not find an issue with the controls. The sails are good-sized and require more attention with fewer crew members on board.

The lightness of the boat makes for a sailing experience not unlike floating on air. If you are a sailor who appreciates a quick, light boat, the 470 should be your first choice!


Performance in The Wind

The Lagoon 470’s performance in the wind may be found just slightly lacking to seasoned skippers who notice everything, but most skippers and passengers would hardly notice any difference. The 470 performs well and doesn’t feel underpowered in the least, even if it struggles somewhat with its windward ability.


Power

Twin engines give the 470 added power for situations that call for the use of an engine. The 470 powered up is easy to control, and maneuver, and sails smoothly, giving passengers a calm ride even if the weather or sea conditions are less than ideal.

Cruising while using power is made simpler with the ability to use only one or both engines, but the second engine shouldn’t be necessary for most circumstances. It’s still nice to have it there, just in case.


Lagoon 470 VS 410

The 410 is a serviceable boat, but many sailors with a 410 are upgrading to the 470. The 470 simply has more room than the 410. Headroom is increased on the 470, as well as a widened galley that is noticeably narrower in the 410.

The 470 is also superior in wind performance, even with its issues, and the 470 does better in bad weather conditions, whereas the 410 tends to sail choppily.


Why Sail the Lagoon 470

  • Spacious
  • Comfortable furnishings
  • Well thought out, free-flowing interior and exterior designs
  • Easy to control
  • Handles well under power
  • Sails are easy to rig with a good size crew
  • Twin engines are good for extra power and a backup if needed

In Conclusion

The 470 is an update on an old favorite and has become a favorite in its own right. The 470 is not as big as some Lagoon catamarans, but not every sailor is looking for a big boat. This cat performs well, and there are not any serious complaints about its performance or design. If you want simple, easy, and comfortable, look no further than the 470!


Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Lagoon
  • Length: 14,50 m
  • Beam: 7,86 m
  • Engine: 2x Yanmar (2x54HP), diesel
  • Engine hours: ca. 2 415
  • Fuel capacity: 600 l
  • Water capacity: 600 l
  • Length overall: 14.33 meters
  • Beam: 7.62 meters
  • Cabins: 4 to 5
  • Berths: 10 to 12

Have you sailed the Lagoon 470? If so, feel free to share your experience in the comment below.

Lagoon 560 Catamaran Review – The Impressively Built Cruiser!

The Lagoon 560 is an immense vessel that is better suited to a large party than to a small, intimate gathering or a vacation consisting of only immediate family, but it could still handle that if you need a lot of extra space.

The 560 is bigger than life, and it glories in the spectacle it creates as it cuts its way through the water.

This Lagoon 560 catamaran review will touch on the enormity of the 560, as well as the most mundane aspects of this boat. The 560 was built to impress and is difficult to ignore.

Accommodation

The massive 560 offers big cabins to spread out in, along with the saloon and galley that put most boat galleys to shame.

A cramped feeling is not possible on a boat of this size, but the opposite feeling of being almost swallowed by the vastness can make itself known before you get used to this enormous boat.

Comfort is a given, and room for adequate room for as many guests as is appropriate makes this an ideal yacht for a charter with a group of friends or a big family.

Exterior

The two-leveled deck gives the 560 a more impressive appearance. The flybridge is divided into the helm and a lounge area for socializing with the skipper.

The deck is wide for ease of movement, and everything is easily accessible from the deck, including the stairs that lead directly into the water for swimming in the water. The flybridge can also double as extra sleeping space for a big group.

Interior

The modern design of the interior gives the 560 an updated feel in comparison to similar catamarans.

Cabins are spacious and have an open feel to them, a feeling that extends throughout the boat.

The saloon and galley are comfortable, easy to move around in, and promote socialization as neither area is enclosed, so conversations can continue uninterrupted.

Under Sail

Like other Lagoon cats, the 560 is controlled with little effort and handles like a dream. The boat sails smoothly, if not lethargically.

The power needed to get this boat going is definitely lacking. This is the 560’s biggest flaw, but perhaps, it’s most expected.

The mass of the boat bogs it down, but it does not feel like it’s plodding along grudgingly. Though at a disadvantage due to its size, the speed the 560 does pick up is consistent and steady.

Lagoon 560 VS 500

The 560 and the 500 are very similar boats, but they do differ when it comes to the style and efficiency of the bridge.

The bridge on the 500 has much less usable space than the 560, so it’s not conducive to lounging. On the other hand, the galley on the 500 is an upper and lower galley, which can be preferable to some sailors in comparison to the 560’s upper galley layout.


Lagoon 560 VS 52

The 52 is considered more spacious than the 560 and is faster than its relatively slow counterpart is. However, more power means controls that are more complicated.

Some sailors complain that the Lagoon52 is difficult to get used to due to having such a complex control panel. This can be especially frustrating for novice sailors or skippers captaining the boat without a professional crew.


Why Sail the Lagoon 560

  • Lots of space on board for big parties of family and/or friends
  • Easy to control and skipper
  • Layout encourages socialization
  • Sails smoothly and is consistently stable
  • Modern interior design
  • The two-level flybridge provides a panoramic view
  • Excellent galley and saloon layouts
  • The size of the boat leaves an impression

Conclusion

The 560 may appear to be more boat than you can handle, but the incredible amount of space on board instantly dissolves any misgivings you could have about chartering a boat of this size.

If you are looking to sail a large group on a catamaran, look no further than the 560. Wedding parties, group vacations, and family reunion trips would all be comfortably accommodated on board the 560. Though the boat is a bit slow, don’t let that deter you!

It’s no less fun, and the slower pace may be helpful to any sailors who have trouble gaining their sea legs. Next time you charter, if you want to make a statement or impress some friends, get a 560. It’ll certainly be a conversation starter!


Specifications

  • Type: Cat
  • Beam: 9,44 Metres
  • Draft: 1,5 Metres
  • YearBuilt 2015
  • Builder: Lagoon
  • cruise speed: 10 MaxSpeed 14
  • Engines: MAIN ENGINES 2 X YANMAR 110 HP ONAN GENSET 17,5 KVA

Have you already chartered the Lagoon 560? If so, you are welcome to share your experience in the comments below.

Neel 45 Trimaran Review – What to Expect?

Neel 45

French sailor Eric Bruneel worked for a catamaran company overseeing the building of sailing vessels for years before starting his own sailboat-building venture. Brunell is the innovative force behind the tri-hulled sailboat dubbed a trimaran.

This Neel 45 Trimaran review, along with others, has discovered that this design is considered too futuristic or bizarre for some sailors, while others embrace the multihulled vessel with open arms and the passionate eagerness of a sailor waiting to set out on a voyage.


Accommodation

The Neel 45 Trimaran was designed to look and feel modern. The furnishings are comfortable but serviceable and made from a lightweight material that won’t bog down the vessel.

Cabins feature double beds and large windows that offer a spectacular view from any angle. The boat is stripped down to bare essentials without compromising comfort. The spare accommodations allow for the boat to reach higher speeds.

One of the highlights below deck is the galley which gives you lots of counter space for cooking and is located in a central area that keeps you part of the action on board.


Safety

The advantage of having a champion sailor design a boat is that he has a deep understanding of what is needed to keep a vessel and her passengers safe.

The three hulls provide the boat with greater stability and balance, making sailing a smoother experience no matter what your destination.

Even down to the choice of furnishings, the Neel 45 has kept one eye on safety. The entire boat was kept to a minimum weight to keep it light, fast, and responsive.


Under Sail

Averaging 10 knots, the Neel 45 reaches speeds that would otherwise require a crew to run about to perform adjustments. This isn’t so on the 45, where controlling and maneuvering the vessel is kept on an even keel.

The power of the 45 is enough to take even experienced sailors aback in surprise. Under sail, the Neel 45 packs a punch that is nearly unmatched by its contemporaries.


Interior

The modernized look of the boat extends into the interior of the boat. Below deck is lined with a laminate that gives the interior a decidedly futuristic look that may or may not appeal to your particular tastes.

Sticklers for a boat to look like a boat inside, or to have the wood and snowy white paneling throughout the interior, will probably dislike the appearance below deck.

On the plus side, the headroom accommodates tall people easily, there is plenty of space for lounging, and there are numerous windows to let in natural light.


Exterior

A three-hulled boat can still garner double-takes by unsuspecting passers-by and can be something the sailor will have to become used to over time.

The boat’s look has been compared to a spaceship and, much like the interior, the appeal is debatable and largely left to individual tastes.


Why Sail the Neel 45

  • The three-hulled design allows for greater control, power, and speed
  • Furnishings are minimalistic and lightweight
  • The three-hull design makes the vessel safer and more stable
  • Easy to control and sail
  • Very fast
  • Modern design makes it stand out
  • Comfortable living spaces

In Conclusion

The Neel 45 Trimaran is a new experience for many sailors devoted to a single or double-hulled sailboat. The difference in designs, however, is worth the learning curve required for sailing this spaceship of the water.

The sheer speed and power are magnificent and exhilarating! If the aesthetics are displeasing to you, just bring a few colorful throws to toss around to add a splash of color. The performance strongly outweighs any offense to your inner decorator!


Specifications

  • Overall length: 44 ft
  • Overall width: 28 ft
  • Draft: 4 ft
  • Air draft: 63 ft
  • Displacement: 8.5 T
  • Furling genoa: 495 sqft
  • Inboard engine: Volvo 55 hp sail drive
  • Freshwater: 160 us gallons
  • Diesel: 80 us gallons
  • Cabins: 4
  • Berths: 8
  • Bathroom: 2