leopard 46 catamaran review

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Leopard 46 launch review - revolutionary hybrid electric innovation meets proven design.

The Leopard 46 represents a significant evolution in cruising catamaran design, marking Leopard Catamarans' bold step into sustainable sailing technology. Building upon the successful DNA of its predecessor, the Leopard 45, this new model introduces groundbreaking innovations in propulsion technology while refining the living spaces that have made Leopard catamarans so popular among cruising sailors.

Key Features and Innovations

The Leopard 46 stands out in the market through its combination of innovative technology and refined cruising features. At the forefront of its advancement is the optional hybrid electric propulsion system, which represents a significant step toward sustainable sailing. Beyond the revolutionary propulsion system, the vessel incorporates numerous improvements in living space design and sailing performance that enhance the overall cruising experience.

Revolutionary Hybrid Electric Drive System

The hybrid electric propulsion system represents a paradigm shift in marine power technology. This innovative system combines electric motors, advanced battery technology, and intelligent power management to deliver a quiet, efficient, and environmentally conscious sailing experience. The system's key components include:

Optional hybrid electric propulsion with 25kW electric pods replacing traditional diesel engines

Dual 27kW lithium iron phosphate battery banks (one per hull)

Hydrogeneration capability from 4 knots

Solar integration with 1600W capacity

24kW Kohler generator for extended range

Regenerative power capability up to 1.5kW per side while sailing

Enhanced Living Spaces

The interior and exterior spaces of the Leopard 46 have been thoughtfully redesigned to create a more comfortable and versatile living environment. The integration between indoor and outdoor spaces has been refined, while materials and finishes have been upgraded throughout. Key improvements include:

Seamless integration between cockpit and saloon with fully retractable doors

Refined interior materials and finishes

Flexible furniture configurations

Enhanced natural lighting through vertical wraparound windows

Multiple layout options: 3-cabin + utility room, 4-cabin, or 5-cabin configurations

Upgraded owner's suite with improved storage solutions

Improved Sailing Performance

Building on Leopard's reputation for excellent sailing characteristics, the 46 introduces several enhancements that improve both performance and handling. The redesigned sail plan and hull shape work together to deliver better performance across a wide range of conditions:

Longer mast providing increased sail area (1554 sqft / 144.4 sqm)

Optional performance sail package with aramid fiber laminate sails

Enhanced bridge deck clearance

Refined hull design for better performance

Protected helm station designed for single-handed sailing

Technical Specifications

The Leopard 46 balances size, capacity, and performance in a package that's manageable for a cruising couple yet spacious enough for extended family sailing. Here are the key measurements and capacities:

Length Overall: 47'6" (14.48m)

Beam: 24'1" (7.35m)

Draft: 5'5" (1.65m)

Displacement: 37,939 lbs (17,209 kg)

Water Capacity: 185 gal (700L)

Fuel Capacity: 182 gal (690L)

Standard Engines: 2 x Yanmar 45hp Diesel (or optional hybrid electric system)

Living Spaces and Layout

The Leopard 46's interior layout reflects decades of feedback from cruising sailors, resulting in spaces that are both practical and comfortable. The design emphasizes natural light, ventilation, and smooth flow between areas while maintaining privacy and functionality.

Saloon and Cockpit

The heart of the vessel features an innovative design that transforms how the space can be used. The integration between indoor and outdoor areas creates a flexible living space that can be adapted to various conditions and preferences:

Innovative sliding door system that fully retracts

Flexible seating arrangements with moveable furniture

Enhanced natural lighting through vertical windows

Upgraded entertainment systems with large TV

Improved air conditioning with zone control

The galley has been designed with both practical functionality and social interaction in mind. Its forward-facing position provides excellent visibility while cooking, and the layout ensures easy access to all essential equipment:

Forward-facing design for better visibility

Induction cooktop option for all-electric configuration

Full-size refrigeration

Dishwasher option

Extensive storage solutions

Owner's Suite

The owner's suite represents a significant upgrade from previous models, offering more space and improved amenities. The attention to detail in this space reflects Leopard's understanding of liveaboard needs:

Enlarged bedroom space

Enhanced storage solutions

Private ensuite with separate shower

Desk/vanity area

Optional TV installation

Additional Features

Beyond the main living areas, the Leopard 46 incorporates numerous features that enhance both comfort and functionality:

New tender platform design that extends outward and down

Improved helm station ergonomics

Enhanced digital switching system

Multiple air conditioning zones

Extensive storage throughout

Performance and Handling

The Leopard 46 offers two distinct propulsion options, each with its own performance characteristics. The hybrid electric system introduces new capabilities while maintaining the vessel's core sailing performance.

Hybrid Electric System Performance

The innovative hybrid electric system delivers impressive performance while offering new capabilities in terms of energy management and silent operation:

6-7 knots sustained cruising speed

8+ knots maximum speed under power

4-hour range at 6 knots on battery power alone

Regenerative charging while sailing

Silent operation capability

Sailing Performance

Under sail, the Leopard 46 demonstrates excellent handling characteristics and improved performance compared to its predecessor:

Enhanced sail plan with larger mainsail

Improved upwind performance

Better light air capability

Optional performance sail package

Electric winches for easier handling

Conclusion Launch Review of Leopard 46

According to our review the Leopard 46 successfully bridges the gap between traditional cruising catamarans and next-generation sustainable vessels. Its hybrid electric option represents a bold step forward in marine propulsion, while the refined living spaces and enhanced sailing performance maintain Leopard's reputation for practical, comfortable cruising vessels. While the hybrid system adds complexity and cost, it offers a glimpse into the future of sustainable cruising, making the Leopard 46 an attractive option for environmentally conscious sailors who don't want to compromise on comfort or performance.

Who Sails This Catamaran

The Leopard 46 attracts a diverse group of sailors, each drawn to different aspects of its innovative design and capabilities. The vessel's versatility makes it suitable for:

Private owners seeking a luxury cruising catamaran

Charter companies looking for a modern, eco-friendly option

Environmentally conscious sailors

Families requiring spacious accommodations

Couples planning extended cruising

Exterior of the Leopard 46:

Interior of the Leopard 46:

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• By Andrew Burton
• Updated: January 31, 2007

The handsome Leopard 46 has high freeboard, as you’d expect on a cruising cat, but it’s nicely broken up by a chine above the waterline. Above the chine, the hull flares to increase interior volume; below it, the hulls are narrower, which means better speed.

We sailed the Leopard in light air, and the slippery hulls gave us boat speed nearly equal to the wind speed. Steering a few steps above the cockpit from a comfy chair for two, we had a good view of the sails and easy access to the main and jib winches on the coachroof. This boat had a three-cabin layout: Two cabins in the port hull have double berths separated by two midship heads with showers, and a single cabin to starboard has a large double berth aft and a settee and storage amidships with a luxurious head forward.

The saloon is bright and airy, as with most cats, but this one has three small opening ports forward to provide through ventilation. A nav station with a chair is to starboard, next to a large dinette with wraparound seating. The galley is to starboard along the aft bulkhead with a fold-out countertop that extends into the spacious, covered cockpit. A table with wraparound seating is to port, with seating aft in the open air for those who want more sun but still participate in the cockpit conversation. Yes, the Leopard 46 is one comfortable cat, but that comfort comes at a price: $520,000. Still, for the owner who can afford it, this cat is a fast one that can go anywhere.

Leopard 46 Specs

LOA: 46′ 4″ LWL: 44′ 7″ Beam: 24′ 10″ Draft: 4′ 5″ Sail Area: 1,011 sq. ft. Displacement: 24,206 lb. Water: 206 gal. Fuel: 185 gal. Engine: 40-hp. Volvo Designer: Morrelli & Melvin Price: $520,000 Leopard Catamarans, (727) 530-5424, www.leopardcatamarans.com

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Leopard 46 Review: Better than a Lagoon?

• Post author By Richard
• Post date December 7, 2011
• No Comments on Leopard 46 Review: Better than a Lagoon?

Clients often debate about which of the production catamaran brands to purchase. Is there a significant difference between a Fountain-Pajot, Lagoon, and Leopard? After an 11 day delivery of a Leopard 46 from Fort Lauderdale to Cartagena, Colombia and a delivery of a Lagoon 440 in March from Fort Lauderdale to Annapolis , in many respects the Leopard out classed the Lagoon including performance, durability, and comfort. My colleague and super star sailor Kevin Bray lauded the Leopard throughout the delivery. “After working on this boat for 3 months and now sailing her, I can honestly say I like this Leopard 46 design, and there are not a lot of boats that I can say that about,” shared Kevin. In a few areas, I give the edge to Lagoon. Read on to see which.

John Robertson and the late Jerry Caine founded the manufacturer Robertson & Caine in 1991 in Cape Town, South Africa. Initially, the business involved custom mono-hull sailing yacht building. The 70ft maxi, Broomstick, won the Cape to Rio International Yacht Race in 1993 and impressed international racing enthusiasts. This interest enabled the company to be awarded the licence to manufacture the Mumm 36 racer designed by Bruce Farr and attracted the interest of the yacht charter company Tui Marine.

Since 1994 the South African yard has enjoyed a relationship with Tui Marine, owner of charter companies Moorings and Sunsail. R&C has supplied more than 800 Leopard catamarans to Tui Marine. The Leopard historical range includes 38, 39, 40, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, and 62-foot models by naval architects Gino Morrelli and Pete Melvin or Alexander Simonis and Maarten Voogd. Today, Robertson & Caine is South Africa’s largest boat-building exporter launching on average three boats a week. Cruising World recently awarded their new Leopard 44, their 2012 cruising boat of the year.

First Impressions

In the same way Lagoons are easily identified by their vertical saloon windows, Leopards have distinct steps in front of their windows for deck manoeuvrability. The 46 is sexy to my eye with her aggressive, possibly feline side windows. These windows are paired with the typical fine bows, trampoline centerline forward, and sugar scoop sterns aft. Large, industrial dingy davits leave you feeling safe on the high seas with your tender tightly secured. The helm positioning is like the Lagoon 420 instead of the 440, offset portside. This provides more security though I enjoyed the high positioned, flybridge of the 440 while in close quarters or docking.

Underneath the bridgedeck has above average clearance for offshore performance. There is an escape hatch centerline just below the entranceway. The keels are sacrificial and secured via large diameter horizontal keel bolts. These bolts corrode but are easily maintained if you check on them after each haul. The Yanmar saildrives stick through the bottom next and help Robertson & Caine maximize interior space. Spade rudders are aftmost.

Construction and What To Look For

I heard a story about Moorings whose US sales office is at Harbortown next door to our office here in Dania Beach, Florida. Originally they chartered in the Caribbean both Lagoon and Leopard catamarans. But they found that the Lagoons did not hold up and that the higher quality build of the Leopards maximised their profits. From my comparison in every respect, Leopard makes the choice towards higher quality materials, more sophisticated techniques, or more robust engineering. One thing to look at are the edges on the laminated cabinetry. More often than not Leopard finished out the edges to prevent water intrusion while Lagoon rarely does. It is these kind of small yet important things on yachts that differentiates quality which can withstand the many years of cruising abuse.

On deck the Leopard 46 features watertight compartments port and starboard for storage. Aft of the trampoline is the windlass, water tankage, sail storage, and generator compartments. The generator in its sound proof shield aboard the yacht I delivered was incredibly quiet. For security at the mast, I love Robertson & Caine’s semicircle support on the mast. Like granny bars this helps you stay on the boat in rough conditions offshore. It also is a step to help climb the mast and a rack to coil and tie the bitter end of halyard lines to. The distinctive and functional Leopard glass steps allow you to easily mount the rooftop. While anchored at Staniel Cay, I ignored the “Do Not Dive From Platform” sign and had great fun launching myself from 15-feet in the air and swan diving in between the davits into the beautiful, azure Bahamian waters.

The cockpit aboard the Leopard 46 is incredible and illustrates why people love catamarans. While on a mono-hull you would spend your time cramped in a long narrow cockpit, here you can luxuriously lay out in an incredible number of ergonomic spots. We dined, navigated, and fished from the cockpit. In the Caribbean, we were rarely inside except to sleep, navigate from the nav station, or cook. The stern swim platforms provide easy access to the water and a place to cleanly gut fish.

One feature Lagoon has over Leopard is a lighter interior. While the Leopard is open and light, Lagoon takes this to another level with the vertical, uninhibited windows. Leopard has those steps which block light and visibility from the interior. The woodwork is lighter on Lagoons as well which often draws a quiet preference from clients.

Catamaran layouts are mostly the same these days. Sure some cats have galleys down, but by and large especially on larger cats, the galley up arrangement is standard. I sailed to Colombia aboard the owner version of the Leopard 46 where the starboard hull has a large master head forward and light and airy master berth aft. This owner suite makes a big difference for clients who are dislike the dark, closed in feel of the 2 head, 2 stateroom charter hull.

One of my biggest complaints during my earlier delivery of the Lagoon 440 to Annapolis was the low and uncomfortable nav station seat. I was pleased to experience on the Leopard a proper height and ergonomical seat with multiple seating options, likewise for the exterior helm. It did not hurt that the Leopard owner had made some savvy upholstery decisions to heighten the comfort factor.

The engines are Volvo D55, Yanmar 4JH3E, or Yanmar’s latest saildrives, the 54HP Yanmar 4JH4’s. Our 4JH4 ran smoothly throughout our trip. The only catch was an unusual buzzing sound. We finally figured out that this happened when when boat speed outpaced engine speed. The saildrives were telling us “what the hell are you doing? Either ramp up the RPM’s or turn me off.” We motored at 7 to 8 knots at 2,000 RPM’s burning about .9 gal/hour of diesel.

I prefer the Leopard’s engine room arrangement. While overlaying the engine rooms on Lagoons are plywood laminated levels, the Leopard has open compartments with a single removable glass board across. Storage for gerry cans is available behind the engines. This space fits 3 easy and maybe a fourth can. We had a little trouble with a leaky gas jug which would have been dangerous if the compartment was not so well ventilated.

During the delivery I had some of the best catamaran sailing ever I have experienced. The smooth motion and minimal slapping even in 10-foot seas and a line squall was the best takeaway from the delivery. Through the windward passage and most of the Caribbean passage, we had 10 to 20 knots of north east wind and following seas. When light we put up the gennaker for a day and a half and made 6 to 7 knots in 5 to 15 knots downwind. As the wind picked up, we put out the jib and main and made 7 or even 8 knots consistently. Our last night in somewhat squally conditions we hit a very unsafe 12 knots before blowing the jib. Upwind we could sail at a reasonable clip of 6 knots up to 60 degrees off apparent wind. Otherwise as we were in delivery mode, we kicked on the iron genny, blew the sails, and motored at 7+ knots.

The premier you pay for a Leopard versus a Lagoon is justified, and for offshore sailing, I would recommend the Leopard. The softer offshore performance, high quality materials, and navigation station comfort give the Leopard my edge. The Lagoon has better interior space, visibility, and airiness. Expect to pay around $600k versus $500k for a late model Leopard 46 compared to an equivalent Lagoon 440.

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Leopard 46 Sailing Catamaran Review

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Learn more about our Leopard 46 Sailing Catamaran model in this review written by one of our expert agents who lives in the BVI and works at our largest base in the world.

My Pick 

I will start out by mentioning that the 46 is probably my pick of all the Leopards so far. I live in the BVI and work at the company's largest base in the world, this has allowed me to get an up close and intimate look at all of our models including the Leopard 46. Overall I find being surrounded by all the other manufacturers and models that the 45ft ish size range of cat is right in the sweet spot and probably all you will ever need for cruising. The smaller 40ft cats are excellent if you have a small budget or are a cruising couple, but the 46 is still easy to handle with just 2 if you need more space for the family and friends.

Hull #1 of the model was built in late 2006.  While there were a few updates in the first couple of years, there was no major structural changes up to the last boats that came off the line in late 2011. One weak point with some of the early hulls was the davits. The original design was changed to a chunkier version of the original and replaced under warranty. The new davits increased the load capacity and stopped some of the issues of cracking and failure of the original design. They use a single speed 14 Lewmar winch on each for raising and lowering the tender. The bow end of the tender raises fine, but the outboard end does make it a little more work. To make life easier an option that works instead of changing winches is to change and add extra pulleys to increase the purchase on the lift lines.

Leopard 46 Sailing Catamaran Through the Years

Originally Leopard Catamarans came with Volvo engines, but in 2008 Leopard switched over to Yanmar’s going forward. The 4JH5E provided the right amount of reliable power to cruise at about 7.5 to 8 knots at 2500rpm. One common comment was that the engines had been put in back to front. This was on purpose and worked well with the saildrive forward of the engine. This meant the propeller was forward of the rudder which benefits from its wash and increase to steerage. On a monohull this characteristic is crucial when it comes to maneuvering and while the twin screws on a cat make it not so necessary it certainly helps when the going gets tight. Another plus is the front of the engine is more in the center of the engine bay which makes access to belts, impeller, etc for easier maintenance.

The biggest change update was in 2008 was to the helm area and its hardtop. Steps from the cockpit directly to the helm were designed in to allow easier access than having to walk around and access from the sidedeck. This also meant the helm hardtop became a little larger to cover the area. This was the only real design change over the years and a nice benefit. By 2009 solar power was starting to come in and you will start to see a couple of small flexible panels fitted on the helm hardtop. For boats in the fleet this was as much solar as they ever had. For private boats there were options for more with plenty of space on the main hardtop. Most boats on the market will have had retro fitted panels of some design the owners will have decided on for their usage. There is good access into the hardtop for wiring and mounting. Often you will see setups using the davits and the aft deck/back of hardtop used to keep the hardtop clear of panels and incorporate a wind generator as desired.

The helm itself is a great layout and great visibility all around, but not so open and exposed that if the weathers not pleasant you cannot zip up the enclosure easily and be comfortable. For docking all four corners are on view. The port aft is a little obscured, but I find it easy enough to bend your head down a bit and look under the hardtop if need be. Instruments, controls and winches are well placed for ease of use. On fleet boats neither of the 2 main primary winches were electric. Certainly upgrading and making the starboard winch electric makes life easier and possible to lead all lines to it as needed. Also, if you want to run the main halyard to the helm then needed. Otherwise all the halyards and reefing lines are up at the front of the mast and 2 winches to manage them. That mainsail is quite big and really needs 2 strong individuals to haul it up with a minimal amount of winching left to finish tightening. To make life easier I will often use the windlass and if single handed. The angle to it for the halyard works well so you just ease the gypsy off so it freewheels to use to haul up. Many people I have met have bought and use a powered winch handle instead. I am also a fan of the old style traveler set up for the mainsail worked by a small winch and clutches just behind the helm seat. It keeps it separate out of the way of everything else going on with lines and find makes trimming more adjustable and easier.

Sailing the Leopard 46

With the sails up she performs very well and easy to handle. Quite agile and quick for a larger cat with her Morelli & Melvin design influences. She does not need too much wind either to get up and going and slips along well in lighter breezes. Solid and stable enough though that when things get a bit rougher she is happy to keep charging along and not get uncomfortable. Coming from a racing background I have always enjoyed a bit more speed in the equation and over a passage with good trim can really shorten the hours to the next port of call.

Other Great Features

Interior wise she is very comfortable and large enough to accommodate 4 cabins with ensuite heads or a very spacious owner’s arrangement on the starboard side. As most built went into the charter fleets there were very few owners versions ever built. The cabin space in the hulls is good and the ensuite heads have a separate shower area and screen. The steps along the companionways in each hull do seem a stumbling point compared to the newer models with their flush one level floors throughout. However, hidden under here are air conditioning units and pumps which are nice and accessible and easy to work on when need to do something. In fact most systems and access to work on things onboard is good. With most boats built going into the fleets ease of maintenance has always been a big point when designing Leopards.

There is room for 4 of the 4D type house batteries in the port bow locker along with the generator. Starboard side has the large water tanks and there was an option for extra water tanks which placed them under the forward cabin berths. Most will not have had them and typically adding a watermaker a preferred option. Storage is excellent both inside and out and lots of room for cruising gear. There is a crew cabin with head in the starboard bow and bunk on the port side. These spaces rarely actually get used for crew but make ideal storage spaces otherwise. Layouts have changed with each model generation for the galley/salon, but on the 46 it is ideal I find with plenty of usable/workable spaces. Visibility out is great, although slightly obstructed forward by the steps up to the coach-roof/hardtop. These also work as shades to the large front windows and keeping the direct sun out. There also one of the good spots to sit and take in the view while underway. Those large windows forward and to the side do have a bit of a weakness though and tendency to need rebidding at some point.

My favorite spot on the boat though is the aft deck seat between the davits. Not only a great place to be at different times of the day, it also hinges down to make a small swim up platform just above the water. Something not incorporated in any other Leopard so far and a unique feature I like. With that and everything else it rounds up a well balanced package which is hard to beat in this size range and price point. Find a Leopard 46 for sale in our current brokerage inventory. 

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