Yacht Reviews

Fountaine Pajot is known for designing a range of sailing cats with superb performance levels and all the comforts you could ask for. This is the Belize 43 Catamaran review to help you know all about the cat from Fountaine Pajot.

The Belize 43 is yet another fast catamaran from the Fountaine Pajot shipyard. The cat is considered one of the best that the company has produced. Sailing in the Belize 43 is exciting and effortless.

The cat’s length of 13 meters, and its streamlined shape means it cuts through the water with ease. The Belize 43 is famous for its exceptional performance, which can be attributed to the generous sails of 111 square meters.

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Accommodation

The Belize 43 has well-thought-out accommodation that makes maximum use of what little space there is. The cat has four large double cabins and two single cabins. Both sides of the forward hull have a double cabin and a single cabin.

Each cabin has a shower head with both hot and cold water showers. During the day, the cat can hold 12 passengers, so you don’t have to worry about friends tagging along on a cruise during the day. It doesn’t feel crowded at all.

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Interior

The interior of the Belize 43 is quite practical with a classy finish. Every part of the cat’s interior is covered with white and faux wood finishes. As you enter the cabins, then you realize just how posh the design elements are.

You will also love all the small storage compartments cleverly placed in areas easy to reach. The gallery has a full cupboard with the most practical setup.

Additionally, you also have a fridge and a gas stove, and an oven, as well as cutlery and other kitchen equipment. You will also want to take a look at the convivial dining area.

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Exterior

The FP Belize 43 has been designed to be as light as possible without having to compromise on stability. The construction was done using solid fiberglass in areas that require heavy-duty parts, such as the bottom of the hulls.

The cat was designed using a computer model that allowed the construction team to tinker with even the finest details. For this reason, the key stress areas were reinforced with additional layers of fiberglass.

With such a build, the cat is strong and stable yet light, thus the lightships of 8500kgs. This explains why it is so much fun to cruise in the Belize 43 because performance is maximized in every way possible.

The boat also has sacrificial mini keels and integral foam crash bulkheads, which can protect it when an underwater collision occurs. The mini keels detach in the event that such a crash occurs.

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Design and Functionality

The boat has its square head main redesigned and upgraded to the hybrid as well as the screecher and furling genoa. With such changes, the Belize 43 sails quite pleasantly even in winds of 5kts which are not as strong as you would like for a fast-paced cruise.

It is also safer to sail her since there are two furling heads that are controlled from the cockpit using two improved electric winches.

The bridge deck clearance, proper weight distribution as well as the safe and enclosed cockpit make her much easier to handle in bad weather. This is also bolstered by the ease by which you handle the sails.

The boat is fitted with two Yanmar 3GM30F engines which also include an SD20-Saildrive, which in turn delivers the torque you need for choppy waters.

The fuel tank holds a massive 300 liters (77 gallons) of fuel. The boat also has an 80 Amps second alternator for the Starboard engine.

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Under sail

Owing to the design aspects that went into the construction of this boat, you can already tell that it has under sail that makes for enjoyable cruising. The universal is even better because a lot of the elements have been updated.

The mainsail is brand new, as well as a parasailor of 125 meters square, which includes Easysnuffer and looks brand new. The mast height is 64.6 feet above the water with 25 mast steps. The boat’s sails span 1111 meters, so you can drop them and cruise on a nice windy afternoon at considerable speeds.

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Why Sail the Belize 43

There is a lot to keep you hooked on the boat, from the number of passengers it can take to the way it cuts through the water. In addition to its commendable performance, the boat has all the comfort to help you forget about taxing hours back at home when you are on vacation.

It comes with extras such as air-conditioning, an electric anchor winch, GPS, transom shower and ladder, standard slab, a tender outboard motor and wheel steering, CD player and AM/FM radio, and last but certainly not least, a fully equipped galley to prepare your favorite meals on board just like in your kitchen at home.

If you have sailed in other cats in the same class as the Belize 43, then you will
enjoy the breath of fresh air that it is. You shouldn’t enjoy your sunny vacation days in the sand only. Some of them should be spent in the open seas as you cruise on the Belize 43.

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In Conclusion

As a boat that is designed for joyrides in the waters, nothing comes close to the impressive stats of the Belize 43. The boat has all the safety equipment for emergencies, including 9 automatic safety life vests and a life raft that can accommodate 8 people that have been recently serviced. Count on this boat to be the highlight of your trip. Ready for a rental by couples and families, the Belize 43 makes for an enjoyable sail.

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Specifications

• Manufacturer: Fountaine Pajot
• Boat type: Catamaran
• Length Overall: 13.00 m
• Beam: 7.00 m
• Draft Min: 1.30 m
• Water Capacity: 600 L
• Fuel Capacity: 300 L
• Cabins: 4
• Berths: 8/12
• Maximum Guests: 12
• Bathrooms: 4
• WC: 4
• Engines: 2
• Power: 27 hp

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Have you already sailed the Belize 43? If so, you are welcome to share your experience in the comments below.

Large cruising cats have risen in popularity these days. The Athena 38 is yet another
entrant into the catalog of cruising catamarans from Fountaine Pajot, France.

The product of two renowned Olympic sailors, Jean-Francois Fountaine and Yves Pajot, the Athena 38 is the second smallest cat in their fleet of five cats.

The Athena 38 is designed for the rookie skipper. The catamaran was made to be a favorite for a rookie skipper thanks to its simple handling.

Fountaine Pajot cats are known for their well-thought-out designs and innovative tech, and this particular one is no different. Here is the Fountaine Pajot Athena 38 review to help you make the right choice for your sailing holidays.

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Accommodation

The stern is 10 feet wide with a layout that makes it all seem like one big cockpit. The whole area is rimmed with comfortable bench seating, which can accommodate at least 12 people. At the port corner, you also have the six-person table, which makes for even more comfortable cruising while you enjoy the cockpit.

The hull and deck intersection is arguably the most eye-catching part of the whole
boat’s design. The Athena is not a typical cat since most of them go for a large freeboard, which almost always makes the topsides snobbish. For this boat, the sheer line is tucked due to a large radius that allows it to rise to deck level again.

It’s a styling concept that robs the boat of some deck space, but then you tend not to notice this once you see just how much deck space there is. The hull design is also meant to give the Athena an attractive sculpted design as it ends at the swim steps.

The 38-footer has enough space to accommodate the owner couple and 3 more couples
effortlessly. Though four double berth staterooms might feel like a little too much for a boat this size, the cabin placement makes the design workable.

Each cabin is placed on one end of the hull. Cabins are separated by the head shower. This symmetrical layout allows occupants all the privacy they need. Thus, the boat never feels crowded.

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Interior

The Athena 38 has a low-maintenance interior that charter companies can make into
whatever they like in as little as a couple of hours, and another group of cruising fans can get on board.

The cast surfaces give the boat a delicate look which is just pacifying when you are in the waters enjoying a cruise.

The boat uses the little space it has excellently so that the salon seems like an extension of the cockpit. At mid-salon, you have a large table surrounded by a deep lounge that is semi-circular. The navigation station stands off one end.

On the other end lays the galley with a 3-burner oven, twin sinks, and a huge fridge fit to store enough beer for everyone.

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Exterior

The exterior of the Athena 38 is curvaceous and part of the reason the boat is so inviting. Molded fiberglass for the exterior lines makes the transition from outdoor to indoor areas seamless. The thoughtful plan makes it easy to enjoy al fresco dining and still remain comfortable when you have to eat indoors due to foul weather.

The headsail is a ProFurl furling system. A loose-footed mainsail is hoisted and drops down through lazy jacks. When the mainsail is up, the cover stows firmly to roll around the internal battens.

The covers remain fastened to the boom boltrope groove of the boom. Keeping the mainsail down and flanked is quite straightforward since all it takes is tying the integral bungees and closing the zipper all the way to the end.

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Undersail

The Athena 38 is not only about beautiful design. It also packs a punch when it comes to functionality. The two Yanmar sail-drive diesel engines have 18 horsepower, which is enough to turn Athena’s length yet purr quietly with minimal vibration when the RPMs reach the maximum.

The engines power the Athena at 71/2 knots on flat waters, giving out 2,600rpms. When the boat hits such rpm with double-blade props and fixed turning, the auxiliaries consume around 4/10 of a gallon.

With a fuel tank of 40 gallons, the Athena can take you on your choice of cruise with no worries. You can easily access the engines by removing the cabin berth cushion at the back and the underlying panel.

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Comfort

O. Flahault Design proves that the boat was conceived to give the best when it comes to catamaran cruising. All the creature comforts you might think of on water are catered for. The cabins have the headspace to make them as comfortable as can be. This, accompanied by the interior that boasts exquisite materials, will have you feeling lost in a capsule-like paradise devised for two.

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Why Charter the Athena?

Thanks to the ingenious design that steps away from the norm in pleasant ways, the boat is perfect for your sailing holiday expeditions, no matter what kind of cruise you have planned for yourself.

The Athena 38 outdoes itself both in terms of functionality and comfort. Each bit of the attractive boat is meant to maximize on your enjoyment once you get on board.

When a boat tracks, as well as the Athena, does even at 40 degrees, you will surely enjoy sailing. Under chute, the Athena 38 remains well-mannered even when the winds reach gusts of 25 to 30. At times you may even feel like she is slightly overcanvassed.

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In Conclusion

In Athena 38, Fountaine Pajot has come up with an undemanding cruising cat that even the least experienced sailor can enjoy. The boat lacks nothing in the way of privacy or comfort, and the performance is commendable as well. At anchor, the boat is like a raft where you can enjoy some sun or dive. You can count on the Athena to attract holidaymakers no matter where it has chattered. Simple handling makes it about the adventure, which is a well-earned bonus. All you have to do is sit back and watch the water drift by.

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Specifications

• Manufacturer: Fountain Pagot
• Length: 11.6m (39.8 feet)
• Cabins: 4
• Bathrooms: 2
• Berths: 8
• Beam: 6.3m
• Draft: 0.95 m
• Fuel Capacity: 180L
• Water Capacity: 360-520L
• Engine number: 2

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Have you chartered the Athena 38? If so, you are welcome to share your experience in the comment below.

Fountaine Pajot is a powerhouse when it comes to catamaran building. And of the many models that have come from this boat builder, the Cumberland 47 catamaran, which recently underwent a makeover and re-launched as Cumberland 47 LC (Long Cruise), is a one-of-a-kind cat.

Everything from its ride and performance to handling the package is exceptional. It is designed for long-range cruising, which means it has enough power and tankage that can help you cover an insane number of miles at sea.

So if you are looking for a catamaran to charter during the holiday, the Cumberland 47 could just be the best toy to go for. But before you think of even chartering this great cat, it
would be best if we first look at what it is made of.

Here is everything you need to know about the Cumberland 47 LC:

Accommodation Cabins

The Cumberland 47 LC comes with two accommodation options to choose from: a 3-cabin version (Maestro) or a 4-cabin version (Quatuor). Let’s have a close-up look at each of them:

 

3-Cabin Version (Maestro)

The Maestro layout consists of an owner’s cabin that takes up the entire port hull and is furnished with a spacious fore-and-aft island bed, huge head, and separate shower stall.

All the cabins (in the hulls) come with a wide window that brings in more daylight and provides amazing views of the outside world.

There’s another cabin that situated towards the front of the shower bulkhead and accommodates one crew or can be used as storage space for stuff. This cabin is accessible via the foredeck hatch.

To the starboard, lies two guest cabins, each furnished with en-suite facilities and a separate shower.

4-Cabin Version (Quatuor)

The 4-cabin cabin version features a set of four similar guest cabins, each with a large double berth, bathroom, and plenty of storage options, including drawers, hanging lockers, and space under the beds.

Each fore and aft bathroom in this arrangement also has private access from the cabin. If you are planning to go on a sailing trip with a catamaran under a bareboat charter, then this cabin arrangement might be the best to go for.

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Interior

There are a lot of refinements that were made on the Cumberland 47 LC’s interior, with the new well-polished wood surfaces together with the leather trim giving it an upscale feel. There are also several huge windows added in the cat to make both the saloon and cabin refreshing and to help holiday-makers stay in touch with the surroundings.

The following are the main facilities found on the Cumberland 47:

Saloon

The main saloon is both as spacious and comfortable as it could ever be. It is divided into three main zones: the galley, the internal helm, and the lounge. The design and functionality of these distinctive zones are superb, which makes long-range sailing even more convenient. Within the saloon, there’s a glass door that leads to the rear cockpit, which is furnished with a transom settee and a teak table.

Galley Amenities

The main galley (which adopts a straight-line layout) is situated on the port side and connects with both the main saloon as well as the aft cockpit.

Apart from having a huge countertop space, the galley has ample space for a fridge and a freezer as well as plenty of stowages to hold provisioning for weeks, especially for an average family that’s considering taking a weeklong or so cruising tour.

The stove in here is powered by propane rather than electricity. This is a bit more convenient as there will be no need to have a generator around, much less use one.

Just opposite the galley is a low profile L-shaped settee that comes complete with a nice cocktail table or a fold-out dining table (optional).

Interior Helm

Inside, the helm station, which is found right above the main saloon, provides ample room for holding navigation instruments and electronics. And there’s a helm seat that can accommodate two people plus a port side lounge, where the captain can enjoy some company.

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Exterior

The Cumberland 47’s interior seamlessly flows with the exterior, providing guests and the crew with the ultimate freedom to move around. The cat’s exterior provides a comfortable seating and lying space that can get you sailing for miles without ever feeling an inch of boredom.

Here are the main features of the outdoor Cumberland 47 LC design:

Cockpit

The aft cockpit, as mentioned above, comes with a built-in transom seat and a small teak table. That provides enough space for sharing evening cocktails, enjoying dinner or simply relaxing on the sofa. The cockpit is just perfect for entertaining the guests and the crew.

Deck

The vessel’s fore is designed with generous deck space where guests can lounge as they sip their favorite cocktail or simply enjoy reading a novel. The deck also provides an ideal space to enjoy conversations with friends even as you enjoy the soothing breeze from the sea.

The easily accessible flybridge also doubles as a lounge deck, when the cat is moored. This section comes complete with a helm station, a set of sofas, teak table and sunbathing as well as the option of a small galley.

One of the advantages of relaxing on the flybridge is that there’s a windscreen that provides protection against strong winds when cruising. And the helm offers good visibility in all directions too.

Twin Boarding Platforms

There’s a drop-down ladder provided at either side of the twin boarding platforms. This makes it convenient for swimmers and divers to get in and out of the water quite seamlessly. Hence when you stop at some point when sailing, you shouldn’t feel shy to jump into or dip yourself in the water whenever you feel sweaty on the decks.

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Under sail

Cumberland 47 boasts of outstanding performance thanks to its powerful engines and hull structure. There are two aspects that make the cat a great choice to go for:

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Engine Capacity

The Cumberland 47 LC catamaran is powered by a twin 225hp Volvo Penta diesel that features straight shafts and four-blade propellers. With such huge engine capacity, you can whip through the waters much faster and will enjoy an amazing overall catamaran performance.

Cumberland’s top speed is at 22.9 knots. But the perfect spot would be 18 knots, where the twin engines are burning at around 18 mph.

The 47 LC has a 2,400-litre capacity and is said to consume 40 percent less fuel than a single-hull craft. With the redundancy of the two engines, in the finely balanced hull lines, the cat is able to consume less and go far.

For instance, when the Cumberland 47 is 635 gallons full, it can cover a staggering 1,600 miles while going at a speed of 8.5 knots. That means the cat will be able to reach its destination way faster than its trawler counterparts and would cost less too.

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Comfort When Sailing

The Cumberland 47 LC cat is designed for the ultimate holidaymakers. Its interior space (which is perfectly refined) flows smoothly to the outdoor, providing a more refreshing and
nature-friendly setting.

The loungers and cabin facilities are also stylish and comfortable, something that makes you feel right at home. That, plus the longitudinal and traverse stability at sea, makes this vessel one-of-a-kind when it comes to taking long cruises at sea.

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Why Sail the Cumberland 47?

• Offers a range of comfortable amenities and storage space onboard
• Has exceptional stability at sea
• Consumes less and hits more miles
• Is relatively cheaper (in terms of fuel and overall costs) when chartered for holiday

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In conclusion

Choosing a power catamaran to take with you on holiday can sometimes be a tricky affair, considering there are many options available in the market. But with the newly refined Cumberland 47 LC, you don’t have to think twice.

This toy is designed with spacious cabins, massive salons, galleys, and plenty of comfortable amenities you could ever imagine. It also has large windows that provide a seamless connection to the outdoor space.

And considering its ability to consume less fuel and cover more miles at sea, the Cumberland 47 LC can be a great choice to go for when planning a weeklong excursion or month-long sailing expedition.

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Specifications

• Manufacturer: Fountaine-Pajot
• LOA: 13.95m
• LWL: 13.40m
• Beam: 6.55m
• Draft: 1.10m
• Max Speed: 22.5 knots
• Cruise Speed: 17 knots
• Fuel Cap: 2400 liters
• Water Cap: 700 liters
• Engines Make: 2 x Volvo Penta D4-225
• Cabins: 3 to 4

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Did you sail on the Cumberland 47? If so, you are welcome to share your experience in the comments below.

If you are looking for a comfortable, roomy, and well-equipped charter yacht for your next family vacation, you should certainly check out the following features and details for the Sunreef 70 catamaran charter.

Luxurious surroundings for you and your family or guests in 5 cabins (sleeping up to 9 people) with plenty of room for everyone to find their quiet space and relax.

With a wide range of water toys and electronic entertainment options, it is highly unlikely you will hear, “I’m bored!” The 3 service-orientated crew members will look after you all and ensure you have an amazing charter experience to remember.

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Accommodation

There are 5 spacious cabins, 3 cabins have king beds (1 cabin with an extra Pullman bed), a fourth cabin has twin beds (plus an extra Pullman bed), and a fifth cabin has a small double bed.

So the cabin layout allows for a maximum of 9 people with children using the extra pull-out beds and two sharing the small double/large single in the forepeak. For added comfort, all cabins have private en-suite facilities and air conditioning controls.

• Cabins 1 and 2 are in the bow, and both comprise a king-sized double bed
• Cabin 3 can be found aft and has a king-sized bed plus a Pullman bed for a child.
• Cabin 4 is perfect for three to share with twin beds plus an additional pull-down bed.
• Cabin 5 is in the forepeak and is suitable for one adult or two children to share.

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Interior

The salon is open and airy, and with panoramic windows, so you will be able to enjoy the views whilst also enjoying the feeling of space.

The Decor is neutral tones with splashes of bright colors for a modern and fun twist. The seating upholstery is plush and complimented by a large dining table and breakfast bar in the galley.

Sliding doors open fully to the exterior area aft, allowing for extended dining options alfresco.

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Exterior

At over 20m in length and 10m wide, there is plenty of exterior room and deck space for everyone on board to find somewhere to enjoy the sailing experience.

Trampolines to relax on, exterior seating with cushions and shade, or just enjoy hanging out in the flybridge. There is a large swim platform with wide, easy-access steps into the water for getting to those toys or just going for a swim to cool off.

Guests & Crew

With spacious accommodation for up to 9 guests and 3 crew, the Sunreef 70 is perfectly suited to 3 or 4 couples utilizing the 3 main or king cabins and the twin cabin.

Equally suitable for perhaps two or three families depending on the ages of the children and whether you bring grandparents along too and make full use of all 5 cabins!

Due to the en-suite facilities and private cabins, the Sunreef 70 could also be hired for business to entertain clients or to reward employees.

Why Sail On The Sunreef 70

A charter experience on the Sunreef 70 will be one to remember with every creature comfort catered for, all the water toys, and entertainment you can imagine. Plus 3 crew to look after you and cater to all your needs and ensure you have an unforgettable experience. Below are some other reasons.

• Loads of space outside and inside the boat
• Elegantly finished luxury interior
• Wide galley with plenty of storage
• The ideal yacht for long-distance cruising

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Conclusion

The Sunreef 70 is a luxurious yacht, fully fitted out and equipped with numerous water toys for a fun and exciting vacation. Suitable for up to 9 guests, this luxury yacht is perfect for a great, large family vacation or for a group of friends to share.

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Specification

• Manufacturer: Sunreef
• Beam: 34 feet
• Draft: 6 feet
• Length: 70 feet
• Type: Catamaran
• Year Built: 2013/2016
• Cabins: 5
• Single Cabin: 1

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Have you chartered the Sunreef 70 catamaran? If so, you are welcome to share your experience in the comments below.