Saona 47 reflects the shipyard experience and the future of the Fountaine Pajot sailing catamarans range

Saona 47 reflects the shipyard experience and the future of the Fountaine Pajot sailing catamarans range

The new catamaran was named after the beautiful island Saonalocated at the southeastern tip Dominican Republicadorned with white sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, and abundant wildlife. Continuing the theme of reasonable comfort combined with excellent seaworthiness, this cruising catamaran offers three levels of living space to provide cruisers with many options for long voyages!

Updated design

Naval architects Michel Joubert and Bernard Nivelt - fathers of the first catamarans Charente Maritime 1 and 2 and Louisianawho started it all were the exclusive architects of the shipyard, which has been based in a small town for over 30 years Aigrefeuille in the west of France. But also like Saona 47 took the place of its predecessor Salina 48, a team of naval architects from Berret Racoupeau Yachts Design replaced the old generation, the founders of the line of sailing catamarans Fountaine Pajot.

Lucia 40introduced in 2015 is now the smallest in the family of cruising catamarans Fountaine pajotfollowed by Astrea 42 and New 45 are new for 2018, Saona 47, Saba 50, Ipanema 58 and the flagship of the Alegria 67 range are also new for 2018... This listing shows significant growth and a wide range of sizes.

Today, the market is showing a real leap towards a discerning international clientele with big budgets. In the process of gaining an image and more ambitious territory, the brand has completely moved on to building luxury catamarans that offer refreshed interior design and avant-garde exterior lines. It looks like this transformation is winning economically, judging by the growth in sales. Besides, Saona 47 fills in the gap in the lineup that arose due to the end of production Salina 48.

Evolution of production quality

Factory in Aigrefeuille has been expanded and modernized and is still one of the largest factories in the world that use RTM technology-molding (the technology involves the injection of resin under low pressure into a hermetically sealed mold, in which the reinforcing material is located). During construction Saona 47, this technique is used only for making the deckhouse roof and bimini, and the rest of the composite work is "traditional" (making the hull and deck from a sandwich using infusion technology). The outer casing of the body is impregnated with vinylester (polyester resin with higher technical qualities and anti-porosity), and end balsa is used as the filler. The main bulkheads use polyurethane foam, and are glued into the hulls for better weight control and increased strength. The fins are inserted and glued into the bottom of the case and act as a safety lock to prevent water from entering in the event of a collision.

Refined silhouette

Work done when creating the roof of the catamaran deckhouse Saona 47 Is the perfect illustration of how the new IT tools used by naval architects are visually optimizing their audacious creations that are clearly aimed to be ahead of their time.  Cockpit open plan, double deck space with sun loungers on the cockpit roof, comfortable and safe cockpit on the flybridge, and excellent headroom - none of this compromises aesthetics, functionality and safety.

To reduce all innovations, taking into account the restrictions to an ergonomic shape, completing it all with elegant lines is a difficult task, but Olivier racoupeau handled it perfectly. The overall profile remains familiar, but it is on the move, with new design elements. The exterior of the hulls is pleasing to the eye, the discreet belt to the shirstrek and the decorative strip above the waterline visually stretch and lengthen the shape.

The shape of the side windows contributes to brand awareness Fountaine Pajot. The bow design and its connection to the deck softens and modernizes the bow's appearance. The deckhouse roof looks neat and the windshields blend well with the horizontal bimini lines. The overall shape of the entire superstructure is very graceful, especially considering the abundance of comfort on board. Tinted windscreens, sundeck hatches, combined with many aesthetic details, serve to create a pleasing appearance.

Refined silhouette

Work done when creating the roof of the catamaran deckhouse Saona 47 Is the perfect illustration of how the new IT tools used by naval architects are visually optimizing their audacious creations that are clearly aimed to be ahead of their time.  Cockpit open plan, double deck space with sun loungers on the cockpit roof, comfortable and safe cockpit on the flybridge, and excellent headroom - none of this compromises aesthetics, functionality and safety.

To reduce all innovations, taking into account the restrictions to an ergonomic shape, completing it all with elegant lines is a difficult task, but Olivier racoupeau handled it perfectly. The overall profile remains familiar, but it is on the move, with new design elements. The exterior of the hulls is pleasing to the eye, the discreet belt to the shirstrek and the decorative strip above the waterline visually stretch and lengthen the shape.

The shape of the side windows contributes to brand awareness Fountaine Pajot. The bow design and its connection to the deck softens and modernizes the bow's appearance. The deckhouse roof looks neat and the windshields blend well with the horizontal bimini lines. The overall shape of the entire superstructure is very graceful, especially considering the abundance of comfort on board. Tinted windscreens, sundeck hatches, combined with many aesthetic details, serve to create a pleasing appearance.

Cozy outdoor seating areas

Access to a flybridge couch and large bed of sunbathing pillows are cleverly located on the deckhouse roof. This organized space is remarkable in that it can be freely used by guests without interfering with the helmsman's work. The connection between the helm station and the cockpit is via a small internal gangway and is very simple and ergonomic.

External lounge area equipped with a transverse bench facing the bow and a chaise longue to the stern. The spacious table, which is equipped with an L-shaped sofa, can comfortably accommodate 8 guests. An external fridge and grill transforms this space into a marvelous marine lounge area that is well protected from sun and wind. Additional cushions in the bow allow you to stay closer to the water and enjoy the beautiful views ahead.

Urban style living space

Recently, a new trend has emerged among the builders of cruise catamarans, which involves reducing the size of the inner dining area and even the galley. Today, the focus is on the outside - that is, the flybridge, barbecue area and cockpit, of course this applies to catamarans designed for warm waters. But Saona cannot be scared even by cold waters, as the cockpit is really large and protected.

There is a central island in the cabin, which will allow you to get inside if the weather is cool. The galley is well equipped, including a large refrigerator with stainless steel drawers. The large door slides to both sides and further enhances the galley-saloon space.

Style is recognized in all details of the interior Isabelle racoupeau... The designer skillfully integrates home comfort into the sea world, with the help of ergonomic and pleasant forms, high-quality materials for decoration and upholstery, decorative details, and, in general, carefully thought out living spaces.

Skylights in the saloon ceiling provide a good view of the sails from the galley. The natural lighting is superb and the amount of abundant storage space is astounding. The wood finishes are neat and everything is immaculately installed and fit, including the beautiful bathrooms and small details. In the maestro's version, the master cabin occupies the entire hull on the port side, and resembles a real cozy home. The aft cabin on the starboard side traditionally faces forward, and the bow cabin is across the hull. The interior living spaces feel as though they do not compromise on limitations, but rather emphasize hospitality and contribute to a high quality of life on board that is both stylish and functional.

Isabelle and Olivier Racupo

Saona 47 marks a turning point in architects' approach to buildings, working unconditionally on performance. Reverse sloping stems allow for a longer waterline and curvature reduces the visible freeboard and leeward surface. Moreover, the weight is not excessive. Obviously DNA Fountaine pajot proven. Admiration for the hull design is enhanced by the modern superstructure style and the two-tone deckhouse roof.

In terms of external comfort, the numerous seating areas offer ample spaces, from the lounge deck to the cockpit and sunbathing area in the bow. Saona... The aft section houses the most notable deck innovations. The introduction of a bathing platform transforms the stern and, if necessary, it turns into a beach club or a perfectly integrated open galley. The platform also facilitates all tender functions, from boarding to boarding.

In addition to the design, special attention has been paid to all aesthetic and functional details. Inside the boat, the chic decor offers charter versions with four identical cabins, or a version Maestro with an exceptional package for a sailing boat of this size.

Optimized engine compartments

Tested Saona very modernized, it is equipped with a variety of equipment such as a generator, reversible air conditioner, carbon mast, membrane sails, dynamo rigging and a hydraulic platform. However, the placement of all the technical installations is intuitive: the intention of the shipyard here is to regroup all the main functions in the engine bays.

On the port side, service batteries are installed on a ledge, optimizing their accessibility for monitoring and potential replacement. Choosing 4x150A gel batteries seems to be a technically, economically and environmentally friendly solution. As for the technical space and electrics, everything is also good and clear here.

Victron 2000W inverter with charging function, circuit breakers, emergency starter on the starboard engine mounted on a watertight bulkhead and perfectly recognizable. Heavy cables cross the boat at the bottom of the center hull. An imposing 12kVA Onan generator is located to starboard. Motor access is excellent from both sides, with an excellent function - non-slip aluminum ladder. Low body molding allows easy cleaning and electrical cabinets for circuit breakers are splash-proof. The top of the ruder posts runs through an aluminum plate bolted to the aft bulkhead, while the autopilot and connections are attached to the steering levers as well as the steering cables.

Fountaine Pajot Saona 47

Impressive performance of two tests

During the first test, we examined light to medium winds, which are not always ideal for this deluxe version, which is heavier than a standard boat. V Bale d'Aigues MortesIn the south of France, we had 10 knots of wind from the southeast and significant roughness on the water, indicating stronger winds on the high seas. However, we immediately got a good impression of the boat: the Incidences membrane sails, dynema rigging and carbon mast are excellent, and the large asymmetrical spinnaker provides a real increase in power in light conditions. After the fordewind from the starboard side, we had a wave behind us, with winds up to 12-13 knots. It was pleasant to watch a beautiful, even sliding movement on the water, and a nose that rises with such determination. The boat is very lively at the helm, and quite fast for a cruise yacht. In general, the first test showed that Saona 47 good disposition.

A second test drive took place a few weeks later at Baie d 'Hyhres, in the strong mistral. We set off with 1 reef and several twists in the genoa with 30-35 knots abeam. Deviating a little to find at least some compromise with the waves, Saona steadily walked more than 10 knots, often 12 knots. With a well-weakened carriage, the catamaran recovered a more balanced helm with gusts of over 35 knots. The second reef with 50% genoa decline regained calm before tack change. The Mistral began to gain momentum to 40 knots with gusts of over 45 knots, and returning to the marina by the shortest route became a must!

This test went very easily, against all our expectations. The well-balanced steering wheel provided noticeable precision and softness. The spray picked up by the catamaran's bows did not even reach us. In some violent impulses, Saona moved forward very quickly. Between 8 and 9 knots, against a choppy sea with short waves, little impact was felt under the bridge, and this deck stability is reassuring despite being in squalls of about 50 knots.

Key features

• Saona 47 offers excellent performance... Balanced design, living space, and sailing comfort are a total success.
• Technical specificationssuch as the carbon mast and membrane sails all make sense on this model.

Specifications

Expert opinion

Superior performance of this carbon mast boat Axxon, equipment Dyneema and Membrane sails Incidences provide additional performance, especially in light to medium weather conditions, which also adds to the cost. But the main conclusion is that the quality of the boat is undeniable! The ergonomics of the helm station is an unprecedented success. They provide steering safety and excellent visibility. The dynamics and energy are very good for a catamaran equipped with this level of comfort. Standard version without generator or hydraulic platform, must have high speed capability. New girl Saona 47 fits well into the family of cruising catamarans Fountaine pajot!

Saona 47 was voted the best cruising catamaran of 2018, 40-50 feet, in the USA, according to Sail Magazine, and won another prestigious award Christofle Yacht Style Award in Asia, in the category "Best multihull sailing yacht up to 15 meters".

31.10.2018