Saffier SE 28 Leopard: a daysailer with twin helms

What's interesting about the new sailboat?

Saffier recently announced a new model, the SE 28 Leopard. According to the company, production is scheduled for 2026. Furthermore, the premiere is scheduled for late January, right at the Boot Düsseldorf 2026 exhibition.

Naturally, the most striking feature is the boat's twin steering wheels, perfect for short cruises. This engineering solution is typically found on larger yachts, but Saffier has its own unique approach to comfort. Looking ahead, it's worth noting that these steering wheels aren't quite so straightforward. 

As with other SE series models, all sail controls are located directly in the cockpit; the winches are located on either side of the helm. This approach allows for precise sail control without leaving the helm. The close proximity of the winches will be especially appreciated by sailors who prefer solo sailing or day cruises with a single buddy.

Is there life on board the Saffier SE 28?

Leopard will feature four full-size berths and a small galley. As with many other daysailers, part of the mast runs directly through the saloon, without any visual embellishments. The saloon is small and compact, but clearly designed with an emphasis on style. Indeed, Saffier has managed to combine stylish visuals with functionality—at least that's the impression one gets from viewing the renderings.

Small longitudinal windows are located along the sides, but the main lighting is artificial. Some lamps are hidden behind the wooden side panels, but there are also small ceiling lights. Thoughtful lighting maintains a pleasant, even cozy, atmosphere inside. 

Unlike some other daysailers, the Leopard dispenses with the tiny sleeping alcoves typically hidden aft amidships. The SE 28 offers quite generous (for a boat of its size) berths, easily accessible—so you can lie down and relax. 

Overall, the SE 28 Leopard looks like a daysailer with a high-quality interior, suitable for a short cruise for a couple or two or three friends. It's unlikely that more people would be comfortable on board. According to the official website, there are storage spaces under each berth. What was an unpleasant surprise was that a refrigerator and toilet are optional, not standard.

Steering wheels, tillers and other options

Yes, back to the discussion of helms: the Saffier SE 48 offers several configurations, which also include different control types. The most noticeable difference in the configuration is the presence or absence of helms. As we noted earlier, dual helms on such a small boat are uncommon. Apparently, Saffier understood this, as they offer a separate version with tiller steering.

Continuing with the deck theme, two foredeck options are available. The first offers a continuous deck, while the second offers an additional skylight. Solar panels can be installed in place of the skylight. Esthec finish is also available as an option.

Green yachting enthusiasts haven't been left out either: the SE 28 Leopard will be equipped with a 7.5 kW Mitek Electric 48V engine with 48V 100 Ah (4800 W) lithium batteries. A Yanmar 2YM15 diesel engine is also available. Both options are equivalent, meaning the choice of engine type is entirely up to the customer.

The boat's mast is from Selden and is made entirely of carbon fiber. Other interesting features include:

• rigging rod,
• backstay and halyards of the mainsail, staysail, gennaker and/or Code Zero from Dyneema,
• through furling staysail (Furlex 104TD),
• All cables, fittings and brackets are made of 316 stainless steel,
• folding mooring cleats.

The Saffier SE 28 Leopard's hull is constructed of iso-fiberglass with a rigid 15mm-thick foam core. For added strength, the fiberglass in the keel area is reinforced with 22mm-thick roving.

Instead of conclusions

Saffier has once again demonstrated a truly high-quality and interesting sailboat with its own unique features. The Leopard is clearly not suitable for family cruising, unless the purpose of the cruise is a quick trip to a tourist destination and back. Furthermore, the boat has a Category C rating, meaning it can only be used in coastal waters, large bays, and river deltas.

The interior is truly stylish and functional (for a daysailer), but the lack of at least a toilet as standard is a major concern. Ultimately, the Saffier SE 28 is a perfect choice for those who enjoy short cruises and day trips on inland waters and the nearby coast.

Saffier SE 28 Leopard Specifications

New video on Interparus channel

The latest yachting news and a review of the most interesting new products from past exhibitions—all this and much more in this new YouTube video.

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04.11.2025