leopard 40 power catamaran

• BOAT OF THE YEAR
• Newsletters
• Sailboat Reviews
• Boating Safety
• Sails and Rigging
• Maintenance
• Sailing Totem
• Sailor & Galley
• Living Aboard
• Destinations
• Gear & Electronics
• Charter Resources
• Ultimate Boating Giveaway

Boat Review: Leopard 40 Power Cat

• By Mark Pillsbury
• October 23, 2023

Sitting at the flybridge helm station aboard the new Leopard 40 power cat, taking in the view of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline, was an excellent way to spend a sunny February morning. It was the day after the 2023 Miami International Boat Show, where the latest model from South African builder Robertson and Caine had made its world debut. I was thoroughly enjoying my allotted time at the helm.

Did I mention that I was a thousand or so miles from the snow and ice back home in New England? Or that the three-person helm seat was far comfier than a similar-size chairlift on any ski hill? Or that the table, surrounded by an L-shaped couch directly behind me—never mind the adjacent chaise abutting a counter with grill, sink and fridge—promised nothing but fun times for both skipper and crew?

With another nine hulls already in the works, and more to come by year’s end when production is fully ramped up, the boat will soon be available for charter vacations with The Moorings. At first, it will be in the British Virgin Islands, the Bahamas , Croatia and Greece, and eventually, it will join the company’s bases worldwide.

Off the Florida coast, we monitored miles per gallon at 500 rpm increments. In slow motion (1,000 rpm), the twin 370 hp Yanmar diesels sipped fuel at an estimated rate of 4.8 miles to the gallon. The boat’s sweet spot—3,000 rpm, where we cranked along at 17 knots—came at a cost of 0.8 miles per gallon. Any more or less, and efficiency dropped, according to onboard gauges. Top speed was a little better than 22 knots.

At cruising speed, the boat’s hydraulic steering felt nimble and responsive as I cranked the wheel into a turn. Conditions were fairly calm, but crossing our own wake, the 40 PC plowed on through the chop without missing a beat.

At low speed, the 40 PC turned easily when I adjusted the twin fly-by-wire throttles and shifted between forward and reverse. The sailor in me wondered if the builder really needed to include a bow thruster in the port bow, though the feature had made getting out of the tight slip at the marina a simple enough maneuver. For extra-tight quarters with a shorthanded crew, cameras can ­monitor the stern and bow, and deliver the imagery to either of the twin Raymarine displays at the ­upstairs helm station.

The 40 PC joins a lineup that includes the Leopard 46 PC (also sold as the Moorings 464) and Robertson and Caine’s flagship on the power side, the Leopard 53 PC. 

A word of explanation here: Robertson and Caine enjoys a somewhat unusual relationship with Travelopia, which owns The Moorings and Sunsail, and oversees the Leopard sales team. All of Robertson and Caine’s sailing catamarans go into the charter companies’ fleets or are sold to private owners as Leopard Catamarans. Robertson and Caine’s power models are branded as Leopards or Moorings models, depending on how an owner plans to use the boat. All of Robertson and Caine’s current models—power and sail—are developed by the in-house design team, along with Alex Simonis of naval architecture firm Simonis and Voogd, and Franck Bauguil, vice president of yacht ownership and product development at Travelopia. Bauguil also manages sales of all three brands.

At present, he says, approximately half of Robertson and Caine’s sailboats are sold for charter, and half are for private use. The same is expected to be true for the 40 PC. Robertson and Caine plans to build 20 of the boats this year and increase the number to 31 next year. A well-equipped model, delivered from South Africa to the United States ready to go, comes in at under $1.2 million. 

The three current power models comprise the fourth generation of power vessels from Robertson and Caine in terms of design. Previous generations shared some furniture modules with boats from the sail side, but Bauguil says that this new line started with a blank sheet of paper. The result is increased volume for interior accommodations without disturbing performance.

The boat in Miami was powered by optional twin 370 hp Yanmar diesels. Charter models are fitted out with 350 hp Yanmars, and 250 hp Yanmars are also available. Tankage is cruiser-friendly, with 370 gallons of fuel and 170 gallons of water.

Aboard the 40 PC, the owner’s stateroom occupies the starboard hull. It has a queen berth aft and a head ­compartment forward with a shower in the forepeak. Amidships are a desk and ­television, hanging lockers, and a fair amount of stowage.

The port hull includes guest staterooms fore and aft, each with a queen berth, and a shared head between them.

It’s bright and airy in the salon, thanks to windows that offer a near 360-degree view, a sliding door that opens to the cockpit, and another door forward that leads to the foredeck, where a couple of cushioned sun beds await. The cockpit is shaded by the flybridge, with a cushioned seat across the transom, and a dining table.

The salon itself is well-laid-­out, with an indoor helm station tucked into the forward starboard corner. To port, an L-shaped couch surrounds a coffee table (a dining table is optional); opposite is an upholstered chair. The galley is adjacent to the cockpit, with a full-size, home-style fridge to starboard and an L-shaped counter to port that includes an induction stove top, a convection microwave oven, a sink, and a dishwasher.

On deck, a solid stainless-­steel rail around the boat provides secure handholds for moving about underway.

Inside and out, the lines of the 40 PC are sharp and stylish. Bauguil says early orders indicate that the boat is appealing not only to multihull sailors who want to make a jump into power, but also to powerboaters looking for the efficiency gained by two hulls. As for charterers, I can state it pure and simple: Put me on a 40 PC somewhere warm and sunny for a week, and I’ll guarantee a good time.  

Leopard 40 Power Cat Specifications

• More: Boat Review , catamaran , leopard catamarans , power cat , Print August 2023
• More Sailboats

Pre-Owned: 1988 Hylas 47

Catalina Introduces the 6 Series

Sailboat Preview: Elan GT6 Explorer

For Sale: 1984 Camper & Nicholsons 58

Galápagos: A Paradise Worth the Paperwork

Around Alone

Grease the Wheels of Your Boat: A Guide to Proper Lubrication

A Bowsprit Reborn: A DIY Renovation Story

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Email Newsletters
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

• Center Consoles
• Dual Consoles
• Motoryachts
• Sport Cruisers
• Tenders & Ribs
• U.S. Atlantic
• Engine Buyers Guide
• Electronics
• Digital Edition

Leopard 40 Powercat: A Comprehensive Review of the Ultimate Cruising Platform

Leopard 40 powercat: the ideal cruiser for couples and families.

On Deck: Unique Features of the Leopard 40 Powercat

Accommodations: experience the luxury, also read: two sailors, one leopard 43 powercat, performance: speed, efficiency, and control, also read: leopard 46 powercat, the second model in the series, does not disappoint..

Overall Impressions: Why the Leopard 40 Powercat Should Be on Your Shortlist

-by zuzana prochazka, fantastic boat rack systems: for easy adventures on the water, the mystic powerboats m5200: a unique look at the delivery experience.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Receive our Newsletter

Recommended

Sunreef Supreme 68

Webasto Marine Heaters

Don't miss it

Explore 4 of the Best US Boating Destinations: Michigan, Maine, and More!

End-of-Season Boat Maintenance: Winter Prep is Crucial to Ensure Peace of Mind

The Pursuit OS 405 Review: Reliable Comfort and Performance for Fishing and Cruising

We Are in the Period of Hot Air and Blue Skies

Master How To Set the Hook: Useful Techniques for Better Fishing Success

How to Catch Giant Bluefin Tuna: Fishing Tips for Success

• Terms Of Service
• Privacy Policy

1591 E. Atlantic Blvd, 2nd Floor Pompano Beach, FL 33060 Office: +1 (954) 522-5515 Fax: +1 (954) 522-2260 Contact us: [email protected]

© 2024 Southern Boating Media

• Subscribe Now
• Digital Editions

Leopard Powercat 40 review: a very big little catamaran

• Top stories

Can Leopard’s latest blue-water cruising cat, the Leopard Powercat 40, really excel with just 40ft to play with?

When South African yard, Robertson and Caine, moved into the world of powercats , it went exactly the right way about it. It already had a fleet of Leopard sailing cats that had proven their worth in the charter market, garnering effusive applause from both punters and press. Rather than adapting its existing platforms for power, it resisted the temptation to cheat and set about designing new hulls from the ground up – and so it was that its Leopard range of power cats went on to receive a fresh slew of awards… but can the Leopard Powercat 40 follow in those footsteps?

In 2020, the Leopard Powercat 53 won the Multihull of the Year award. It followed that up two years later with a smaller 46ft version, which also scooped the top gong at the Best of Boats Awards.

And when its smallest powercat completed the hat-trick with the European Powerboat of the Year award in 2024, it became clear that all its hard work and investment was paying dividends.

But can a beamy flybridge-equipped 40ft cruising cat really be as compromise-free as the acclaim suggests? We headed for St Raphael in the South of France to find out.

Given the ratio between length, beam and elevation, the Leopard stylists have done a very decent job here

A big little boat

First thing’s first. The beam on this new Leopard 40 is massive. In fact, at 21ft 8in, it encompasses more than 54% of the overall length, which is way up in sailing cat territory. And interestingly, the vast majority of the internal space that the beam helps create is lavished on the external dayboating zones.

In the absence of a central swim platform, the aft cockpit uses a set of tender davits with a transverse walkway behind the aft bench. Although that involves shunting the aft bench forwards, there’s still space for a set of freestanding chairs.

On first acquaintance, the fixed cockpit table might seem like an odd choice here, but the shelter provided by the vast fly deck means this section of the boat was never intended for sunbathing. On the contrary, if you want to sunbathe, the bow deck is very much the place to be.

The flybridge provides a massive party venue for a boat of this length

Accessed via a set of broad (but not excessively broad) single-level side decks with grabrails for both hands, the bow features a couple of occasional seats built into the forward guardrails, plus a pair of fold-up cushions that rest incongruously against the windscreen.

It’s not likely to impress you much if you’re looking for a conventional bow lounge but there are some truly huge storage compartments here, thanks to the forward dip of the bridge deck, and there’s also a vast acreage of sunbed cushions that would have you believe you’re on a much bigger boat.

Article continues below…

Prestige M48 sea trial review: The smartest multihull on the planet?

Archipelago 47 sea trial review: Brilliant British offshore cat that feels just like home

The flybridge is also absurdly spacious for a platform of this length and, for our money, it’s better used too. The starboard helm features a bench seat that could easily accommodate three people and there’s no need for a reversing backrest because even without it, there’s plenty of room for a large C-shaped dinette. There’s also a chaise longue and wet bar on the port side, plus an open aft deck that’s ideal for a set of freestanding deckchairs.

With the top-end 370hp Yanmars, the new 40 is capable of creaming along at up to 23 knots

Now clearly, on a 40ft boat, something has to take the hit for these big external spaces and the sacrificial zone in this case is the main deck saloon. It looks distinctly short by the standards of the sector but when you step inside, it actually does a remarkably good job.

The sheer breadth in here makes the space feel square rather than long and thin, and the single-level deck, big windows and generous headroom do plenty to augment that sense of scale and openness.

In terms of the layout, the space is broadly split between an aft galley and a forward dinette, with a stairwell on each side to access the cabins. And while plenty of modern cats tend to span the gap between the hulls with a full-beam forward owner’s cabin, the absence of that here means there’s plenty of space for a dedicated door onto the foredeck for a much more natural flow between the various zones.

The saloon might take the hit for the big external spaces but it’s a very attractive zone in its own right

When you step below, the breadth of those hulls becomes very clear. On the port side, the hull is split in two with a shared bathroom in the centre that operates very naturally as your day heads.

Both cabins get queen-size beds and plenty of storage options, but while the forward cabin is relatively bright and attractive, the aft cabin is the one to grab if you can. It benefits from the deeper sections of hull window as they dip down aft and it also gets a couple of extra windows that look back across the cockpit deck and out over the water.

By contrast, it becomes very clear on the starboard side that this is a privately owned boat rather than a charter model because the entire hull is used for a single open-plan space. Rather sensibly, it mimics the aft bed in the port hull but it replaces the central bathroom with an open-plan dressing area and the forward cabin with a huge bathroom.

There’s plenty of space for two to shower in here and there’s still space beyond the forward bulkhead in the hull’s tapering V for a compartment that will happily swallow a whole batch of bulky suitcases.

If you’re happy to cruise at six knots, you can eke out the range to nearly 900 miles. Hard top solar panels help charge the house batteries

Here, as elsewhere, some of the sliding doors are a bit sticky and awkward but our only real reservation about the interior spaces concerns Leopard’s slightly hardline approach to customisation. For instance, you’ll need to enjoy the test boat’s deck layout because there are no alternatives.

You’ll also need to enjoy the furniture because, for the most part, none of it is convertible or reconfigurable. And then there’s the fact that the relatively dark satin wood finish of the test boat is the only one available. But in the wake of wholesale fanfare for its existing powercat line, there’s a confidence to these design decisions that openly prompts you in how best to use the boat.

Four windows create a very appealing environment at the aft end of the owner’s cabin

If you want to dine, the place for that is the aft cockpit. If you want to sunbathe, the place for that is the bow. And if you want to lounge with a view, the flybridge is where you need to be. If you like the idea of more control, flexibility and customisation potential, there are certainly better boats than this. But if you’re on board with the design solutions to this point, then you need to read on…

How does it drive?

When you first lay eyes on the new 40, nothing about it screams helming dynamism. In fact, with its massive beam, elevated topsides, deepset bridge deck and limited waterline length, you naturally assume that Leopard is more concerned with internal volume than performance.

The port bow cabin gets plenty of privacy thanks to the central heads compartment

But the specialist nature of its powercat underpinnings absolutely shows through when you get it out on the water. In spite of fine angles both at the stem and beneath the waterline, the hulls on this boat are significantly broader than you might expect.

That creates plenty of aft buoyancy to handle the weight of the engines, as well as sufficient forward buoyancy to preserve bridge deck clearance and prevent the swells from impacting on the underside.

That’s not to say this is an especially dry boat because on a day like today, with short choppy seas whipped into aggravated crests by 20-knot gusts, plenty of spray finds its way onto the foredeck, screen and cockpit seating. But it really is just spray.

The skipper gets plenty of company thanks to port companion seating and a bow door as standard

At no point during our sea trial does this boat belly flop; at no point do we feel the unmistakable thud of the bridge deck bottoming out; and not once do we see the high-pressure puff of water at the bow that tends to accompany such impacts.

The ride is gentle, the stability is very good, noise levels are relatively low and the trim of the boat at every point in the rev range is very steady. It all speaks of a boat where the interplay between weight and buoyancy, between volume and softness, is spot on.

As for fuel capacity, 1,400 litres spread across two tanks isn’t especially generous and there’s no option to increase it if you’re a particularly keen long-distance cruise boater, but if you play to this boat’s strengths, the range here actually looks pretty good.

At 9 knots, 500 miles is well on the cards. Push that to 10 knots and the range halves but from here, the diminishing returns level out and everything up to 20 knots delivers a range of between 200 and 250 miles. And if you really need to eke out some extra distance, it’s good to know that dropping the pace to 6 knots will push the envelope way out towards 850 miles.

In fact, in terms of the sea trial element of our day, the only compromise involves the helm itself. While the upper station is very well appointed, the lower helm feels very much like the poor relation.

It’s quite a tight, low-slung affair and because there’s no adjustability at the seat, you find yourself sitting a little deeper than you might choose. You can’t stand up to remedy the situation because the leading edge of the seat prevents you from doing so; and the struts for the screen and forward door also obstruct your view.

As if to drive home the fact that this is very much the secondary helm position, it also uses a single (rather than double) seat with a single (rather than double) plotter – and there’s no control for the bow thruster at the test boat’s lower helm either. Suffice it to say then that Leopard expects you to drive up top – but to help make that a more pleasant experience, it’s good to see that the hard top is supplemented with a set of transparent curtains so you can shut off the entire space and helm in decent comfort when the weather turns.

Leopard Powercat 40 Specifications

LOA: 40ft 0in (12.19m) BEAM: 21ft 8in (6.61m) DRAFT: 3ft 7in (1.10m) DISPLACEMENT: 13,829 kg FUEL CAPACITY: 1,400 litres ENGINES: Twin 250-370hp Yanmar diesels on straight shafts RCD: A8 / B12 / C16 CONTACT: leopardcatamarans.co.uk

Costs & Options

From: £669,000

Test boat includes: Twin 370hp Yanmars £18,889 Bow thruster £12,580 Shore power pack £9,553 6kw genset £25,857 Flybridge enclosure £10,676 Bow deck cushions £4,482

Price as reviewed:

£829,000.00 As tested ex. VAT

In spite of Leopard’s heritage in the charter market, this is a boat that’s likely to carry equal appeal both for first-time buyers and for seasoned cruisers in search of extra space. Certainly, the main deck saloon is moderately sized, the lower helm is imperfect and the options are scant. If you plan on boating in colder climates, the 40’s take-it-or-leave alfresco-centric deck arrangement is also unlikely to float your boat. But in spite of these qualifications, there’s no doubt that this is a very sound piece of work from Leopard. It marries enormous outdoor space with comfortable cruising cabins, massive reserves of storage and a level of seagoing composure that belies its scale and volume. It’s also a boat that commits wholeheartedly to a very specific design direction – and while that will inevitably sour the deal for some, others will find it very tough to see past the new entry point to Leopard’s stellar powercat fleet.

Latest reviews

Targa 41 review: the offshore weapon you can take to the med, quarken 35 cabin review: fast, fun and fantastic value, fairline phantom 42 used boat review: classically luxurious motor yacht, latest videos, watch: parker sorrento sea trial: 50-knot cruiser with a killer aft cabin, watch: virtue v10 sea trial: €272k weekender, how to mark your anchor chain: 6 top tips from our expert, watch: galeon 560 fly sea trial – the best galeon flybridge you can buy.

672 Wine Club

• Motorcycles
• Car of the Month
• Destinations
• Men’s Fashion
• Watch Collector
• Art & Collectibles
• Vacation Homes
• Celebrity Homes
• New Construction
• Home Design
• Electronics
• Fine Dining
• Benchmark Wines
• Brian Fox Art
• Chase United
• Disneyland Resort
• Sports & Leisure
• Health & Wellness
• Best of the Best
• The Ultimate Gift Guide

This New 40-Foot Power Cat Was Built to Tackle Rough Waters

Leopard's new 40 was designed and built in cape town, south africa, known for its big coastal waters., kevin koenig, kevin koenig's most recent stories.

• This 121-Foot Superyacht Is Faster Than Most Boats Half Its Size
• Maserati’s First Electric Boat Delivers Style and Fun on the Water—We Took It for a Spin
• This New 101-Foot Superyacht Has an Unusually Large Social Enclave on Its Main Deck
• Share This Article

Capetown, South Africa, is surrounded by some of the world’s most notorious waters. If a boat builder calls this area home—as Leopard Catamarans does—you can rest assured that its hulls are designed to be seaworthy.

Related Stories

• The Volkswagen ID. Buzz Is Already Being Turned Into a Camper Van
• Con Air? The U.S. Launches Investigation Into 4 Major Airline Loyalty Programs
• This 1932 Maybach Zeppelin DS8 Drips with Hand-Built Luxury, and We Drove It

Trim tabs typically don’t work well on catamarans, so Leopard used a computational fluid dynamics algorithm in a virtual test tank to ensure that this model would run level in big seas, with the twin goals of maximizing guest comfort and solidifying lines of sight. Leopard says the process also increases fuel efficiency. The model comes with multiple Yanmar diesels, including twin 250-horsepower, 320-horsepower, and 370-horsepower versions. With the twin 320 powerplants, top speed is 23 knots while cruise is about 16.

The 40’s main deck is flush, leading from the fairly sizable cockpit into a salon that is filled with windows, providing exceptional views from this glass sanctuary. The windshield flips open for ventilation, and the forward door creates a passage to the boat’s broad foredeck.

The lower deck has three staterooms, each with its own head and shower, with the main suite being on the starboard side, running the full length of the pontoon.

The foredeck makes excellent use of the boat’s generous beam. There’s a sun lounge, of course, for enjoying the area. Perhaps more interesting is the stowage beneath the cushions, where a deep, wide locker is designed to hold toys, extra clothing, dive tanks, or whatever other equipment needs to be stowed. Two other lockers forward of this one let you really load the boat for long-distance cruising. Sturdy, thigh-high guardrails encircling the bow providing an element of safety for with family cruises.

Read More On:

More marine.

Kevin Costner Cruised on This Luxe 75-Footer Last Summer. Now It’s Debuting at Cannes Yacht Fest.

This New 161-Foot Explorer Yacht Offers 6 Days of Autonomy at Sea

Luxury Riverboats Are Giving Superyacht Charters a Run for Your Money

The ‘Titanic”s Iconic Bow Deck Has Partially Fallen Off, an Expedition Finds

Meet the Wine Club That Thinks Differently.

Receive editor-curated reds from boutique California producers four times a year.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Marine

From Underwater Jetpacks to Personal Subs: 13 Ways to Stay Entertained on Your Yacht Cruise

Leapher Yachts Navix50 in Photos

More from our brands, cyndi lauper, tiffany haddish, lil’ kim, selma blair and darren criss in christian siriano’s front row, pegula’s run ends as sabalenka wins first u.s. open, ‘back to the future’ star lea thompson, kevin pollak, leanne melissa bishop and aaron ashmore to lead cast of ‘what if’ (exclusive), derek boshier, british pop artist who made work for david bowie and the clash, dies at 87, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors.

• SUBSCRIBE •MAGZTER •NEWSLETTER

•CONTAC T US

Asia's leading yachting lifestyle media

More results...

Leopard Powercat family’s new cub

• May 25, 2023

Twin 370hp engines powered hull one to 23 knots in sea trials

On a breezy day at this year’s Palm Beach International Boat Show in March, Leopard’s booth was packed with chic, pastel-clad visitors eager to tour the yachts on display. As the newest of the brand’s three power catamarans, the Leopard 40 Powercat was again in the spotlight.

The model had its world premiere at the Miami International Boat Show the previous month, while hull two was allocated for the model’s European debut at the International Multihull Show on France’s south coast in April.

At the Palm Beach show, the 40-footer attracted families and couples, who took turns to explore the features of the exciting new catamaran designed to make exciting travel dreams come true.

The 40 Powercat can be fitted with solar panels

A family in pale pink, floral outfits hopped onto the yacht to inspect the airy, light-filled saloon. With a myriad storage spaces tucked neatly in multiple locations, within the cosy cabins and underneath the captain’s seat, the model ensures those on board travel in style and comfort.

MORE THAN JUST A CAT

Designed by Alexander Simonis of Simonis Voogd Design, the 40PC is surprisingly roomy, notable for an almost 22ft beam and a spacious flybridge that Leopard describes as “the largest ever seen on a 40ft vessel”.

However, each of its social areas – aft cockpit, flybridge, saloon, foredeck – essentially offers an intimate setting for a group of six, in comparison to the 46PC and flagship 53PC models in the powercat series, which both cater to larger groups of eight or so.

Alexander Simonis has created a notably sharp exterior

Like its big sisters, the 40PC features sharp lines and a modern design, where excellent features include making the engine rooms easily accessible.

From a distance, the cat looks ready to deliver a sleek, efficient and high-performance experience, and it delivers on expectations. Equipped with twin 250hp engines as standard, it offers the option to upgrade to 320hp or 370hp engines, which enable the powercat to reach over 20 knots and cruise at about 17 knots.

The hulls encase large cabins

To get aboard, guests can use either of the symmetrical staircases on both sides of the aft platform, flanked by two shore powerlines. The cockpit has a fixed, forward-facing sofa and a table, with foldable director’s chairs offering extra seating.

Side decks offer access around the boat, with grabrails on both sides of the superstructure increasing guest safety along with the wraparound double railings. The foredeck can also be reached via the forward saloon door, a special feature of Leopard models since 2010.

Wide side decks and grabrails offer foredeck access

The bow area is centrally fitted with sunpads, including a single to starboard and a double to port, both with fitted headrests. The sunbathing area extends to the bow, where at least two people can lie horizontally.

In a clever piece of design, there’s ample space underneath the soft sunpads for storage. This is ideal for modern travellers who would like to entertain guests while keeping the appearance of the yacht minimal, sophisticated and tidy.

A forward saloon door leads to the foredeck

Arguably the best outdoor area is the flybridge, which is accessed from the cockpit by port-side stairs. The steps lead up to the forward end of the flybridge, where the upper helm is to starboard and has a double bench seat with a moveable backrest.

The helm features a control panel fitted with Raymarine and Yanmar displays, while there’s a low-set windscreen in front and on both sides of the flybridge.

The large flybridge has a C-shaped sofa facing a wet bar and bench seat

To starboard is the main social area, a C-shaped sofa with a table, which is available in teak or fibreglass and is fitted with multiple cup holders, allowing guests to safely stow cold drinks on a hot day.

To port is a wet bar and a double sofa forward, allowing for four sides of seating, ideal for conversation and cocktails. There’s also a large, clear area aft that can be used how the owner sees fit. Overall, the flybridge provides a comfortable environment for relaxing and enjoying the sea breeze, offering 360-degree visibility to make it the yacht’s prime location for panoramic views.

The aft cockpit features a long sofa and a table offering alfresco dining

Another key feature is the model’s emphasis on safety, and the red label with the word ‘Fire’ is present on many storage space surfaces to indicate where safety equipment is located. Moreover, some surfaces on the foredeck are hollow to allow the swift drainage of water if a wave or spray lands on the bow.

STYLISH INTERIOR

The saloon can be accessed from the aft cockpit by a sliding door or from the foredeck through a forward door. Starting aft, the saloon includes full-height refrigeration to starboard and an L-shaped galley to port, where equipment includes a stove, oven, sink, dishwasher, dish-drying rack and lots of storage.

L-shaped galley to port and refrigeration to starboard

When necessary, the dish-drying rack area can be converted to make a double sink. Nearby is a hidden counter that can be extended, with electrical sockets ideal for plugging in a coffee machine. The cream-coloured countertop is refined and sophisticated.

When preparing food or drinks, the galley provides a spacious area for entertaining guests. The designers thoughtfully ensured easy access to the power controls near the galley, so people can keep an eye on the indicators while in the area.

The lounge has an L-shaped sofa facing a single chair, aft of the helm

The forward lounging area includes an L-shaped sofa to port plus a facing chair to the starboard, aft of the lower helm, which has an adjustable backrest. Finished in elegant grey and cream tones, the interior features many large windows, providing a panoramic view of the ocean from the saloon and accentuating the airy feeling of the light-filled space.

The angle of the TV screen, mounted on an extension arm fixed to the bulkhead, can be adjusted for those seated at the L-shaped sofa or facing chair. The soft carpet and the comfortable fabric of the pillows create a relaxed atmosphere and a nice hub for conversation.

In the starboard hull, the master suite has a desk underneath the TV

To starboard, the helm seat is equipped with storage space underneath. Moreover, the Raymarine screens, joystick and monitoring system ensure the skipper is aware of everything that’s going on. The control panel allows the skipper to monitor data including tank levels, speed and much more.

Starboard stairs lead to the full-length master stateroom, which starts aft with a forward-facing double bed. The cabin also has a central desk below a large, adjustable TV, while forward is a full-height cupboard, drawers on both sides and more storage before an en-suite bathroom with a large shower in the forepeak.

Forward is lots of storage and the en-suite bathroom

The stairs on the port side descend to the two guest cabins, which each have an island bed and a full length mirror, and share a bathroom. In all the cabins, the soft, warm glow from the dimmable lights along the edges of the ceilings provides a cosy feeling, while there are blinds on the windows. Each cabin is also equipped with fire-safety equipment.

All Leopard models, including charter-specified versions branded for The Moorings and Sunsail, are built in Cape Town by Robertson & Caine, one of South Africa’s leading yacht builders.

The forward guest cabin shares a bathroom

Like its sister models, the 40PC is available for charter and private owners under a management programme through The Moorings, while also offering the most affordable entry into Leopard’s renowned powercat family.

www.leopardcatamarans.com

Editor's Picks

Yacht insurance is money well spent

Sunreef’s 60 Power Eco

Powercat players are multiplying

Evolution of the 620 perceptible in new flagship Lagoon 60

Miles of style aboard the Azimut Verve 48

Ferretti Yachts INFYNITO 90 is a bow to the future

‘God of Water’ makes waves with its 68

Bluegame’s big multihull

Corsaro’s super second coming

True Blue Dutch Beauty

Riva’s stunning new Diva

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Copyright © 2024  Website by Malikhan Design & Digital

All Rights Reserved © 2023

Copyright © 2024 Yacht Style.All Rights Reserved .Website by Unstoppable.

Discover more from Yacht Style

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

• AMERICA'S CUP
• CLASSIFIEDS
• NEWSLETTERS
• SUBMIT NEWS

New Leopard 40PC - The excellent new Leopard Power Catamaran available in 40 feet

Related Articles

• ACHIEVEMENTS
• MANUFACTURING

SAILING RANGE

Power range, leopard 40 catamaran, the success of the leopard 53 powercat and leopard 46 powercat has reinforced leopard catamarans’ world leadership in the cruising/blue water/offshore power catamaran market..

The Leopard 40 Powercat completes a modern range, entirely reinvented, and specifically designed to meet the highest requirements of comfort and seaworthiness.

KEY FEATURES

• New Styling
• Interior Upgrade
• Additional Area at Aft End of Saloon
• Larger Cabins
• Separate Engine Rooms

Saloon Features

• Seating and Inside Helm Station (optional)
• Coffee Table or Dining Table Options
• Forward Access to Deck
• New Soft Furnishings for Settees

Galley Features

• Forward Facing L-shaped Galley to Port
• New “Galley Serving Area” to Starboard
• Improved Interior Lighting

Accommodations have been enhanced to make you feel at-home with new soft furnishings, very comfortable beds and great use of space. The Leopard 40 Powercat comes in a three or four-cabin layout. The three-cabin owner’s suite boasts large walk-in closet, desk, and a double vanity.

Forward VIP guest cabins offer spacious, island berths and en-suite heads.

The next generation of

LEOPARD CATAMARANS

Built to provide pure comfort and performance

Engine Specifications

Load Specifications

• 3 Cabin Layout
• Flybridge Layout

CatamaranReviews.com

Leopard 40 catamaran.

The recently redesigned Leopard 40 sports an increased interior volume and modern interior layout. A unique saloon to bow access door gives easy access for sunbathing and chilling out on the deck. With a bright and uncluttered design and a helm with excellent visibility, the Leopard 40 provides the safety expected for the bluewater lifestyle in a comfortable package.

Table of Contents

DESIGN – INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

Designed and built by South African firm Robertson & Caine and along with Naval Architects Simonis-Voogd, the Leopard 40 attempts to set a new standard for cruising catamarans. Based on customer and owner feedback, the most recent Leopard 40 has a redesigned configuration. As an evolution of the Leopard 39 design, the increase in hull volume, innovative interior layout, and enlarged windows and doors give the impression of a much larger catamaran.

The aft cabins have been redesigned and now have semi-island berths, improved access steps, recessed LED strip lighting as well as more space overall than the previous version. Within the owner’s suite, the desk and storage units have been repositioned to allow for a more refined and practical layout. 

Short-handed sailing is made easy as all lines run back to the helm, all within reach, and with an electric winch for convenient control. The helm offers superb visibility to all corners of the boat and is easily accessible from the cockpit and deck. The cockpit has a full hardtop cover and a hard Bimini protecting the helm station. One of the biggest drawcards of this model is the forward access door at the front of the saloon, which accesses a semi-covered outdoor lounge area, perfect for relaxing and watching the world go by.

The Leopard 40 is available in two versions, a three cabin and two head version, or a four cabin and two head version. Customizable with your choice of interior and exterior colors, as well as a comprehensive list of optional equipment from reputable brands, the Leopard 40 can be outfitted to suit your intended sailing method and lifestyle.

The well thought out design of the Leopard 40 provides the comfort and safety expected for the Bluewater lifestyle. The deck is clear and uncluttered, hatches are finished flush, and numerous grab handles are well positioned for safe sailing.

The Leopard 40 has a forward deck area accessible from the saloon, but unlike the larger boats by Leopard , this area is not a dedicated cockpit. Although, with the addition of some cushions, the area would make a great space to lounge when the sun is shining from aft and it does provide some shade with the extended brow / louvre. There is good under-deck storage in the foredeck area where the optional generator is stowed. Ample space is available on the deck suitable to store your favorite watersports equipment, such as paddleboards and kayaks.

Handholds are installed along the entire top of the cabin, providing safe access to and from the deck. However, the steps that provide access to the cabin top are challenging, especially if the area is wet. The sail controls are simple, and the helm station is raised to provide an excellent position to sail from and to simply enjoy the views.

The latest model, Leopard 40 has a reinvented saloon and galley with an open-air concept that is a fusion of the indoor and outdoor living spaces. The large forward window and access door, combined with the sliding windows and doors aft provide occupants an almost all-round view from the saloon. While the smoke grey-tinted saloon windows and rectangular side windows, give the catamaran a very modern look.

The internal volume of this catamaran has been maximized by the design that incorporates vertical sides to the saloon. The saloon lounge is L shaped and located against the aft sliding windows, it contributes to the large open space feeling, and the saloon and cockpit areas become one. The generous interior dining area can seat eight comfortably, and the dining table converts into an additional double berth.

The oversized vertical forward window and door to access the bow area increase the natural light in the interior. The galley in the latest model has been relocated, facing forward beside the foredeck door, and is also an L shaped configuration. The modern galley is well finished and supplied complete with large Corian countertops, deep stainless steel sink, front-opening energy-saving fridge/freezer, and a three burner stovetop and oven.

ACCOMMODATIONS

The Leopard 40 is available with either a 3 or 4 cabin layout. The increased volume in the hulls is noticeable in the generous size of the cabins and berths, with both layouts providing excellent comfort in all cabins with ample storage lockers. In addition, the light interior fit out in the owners, and guest cabins add to the open and airy feeling.

The three cabin layout has two guest cabins in the port hull, sharing a good-sized head complete with shower. The owner’s cabin fills the entire starboard hull. The spacious berth is situated aft and comes complete with a vanity table/desk and adequate storage space. It also has a sliding entry door for privacy. A private head and shower are located forward in the hull in the owner’s version. And this private head and shower are replaced by an additional double berth in the four cabin version.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• LOA: 39 ft 4 in / 11.99 m 
• LWL: 38 ft 1 in / 11.62 m 
• Beam: 22 ft 1 in / 6.72 m 
• Draft: 4 ft 5 in / 1.35 m 
• Mast Height: 63 ft 10 in / 19.45 m 
• Bridgedeck Clearance: 2 ft 4 in / 0.7 m 
• Engine: 2x 29 hp 
• Engine No. Cylinders: 3 
• Fuel: 95 gal / 360 L 
• Water: 206 gal / 780 L 
• Mainsail Area (Standard): 445 sqft / 41.4 sqm 
• Mainsail Area (Square Top): 607 sqft / 56.4 sqm 
• Genoa Area: 425 sqft / 39.5 sqm 
• Spinnaker Area: 1292 sqft / 120 sqm 
• Code 0 Area: 580 sqft / 53.9 sqm 
• Total Upwind Area (Standard): 871 sqft / 80.9 sqm 
• Displacement: 23215 lbs / 10530 kg 
• Load Carrying Capacity: 9612 lbs / 4360 kg 
• Holding Tank Capacity: 29 gal / 110 L 
• First Built: 2008 
• Builder: Robertson and Caine
• Designer: Simonis Voogd

PRICE RANGE

The Leopard 40 is available for approx. $500,000. Expect another $100,000 to fully equip it with everything need to be ready to go cruising.

The design of the Leopard 40 is well thought out. The open-air concept combining the interior and exterior areas creates a comfortable and enjoyable living space from the front deck, through the saloon, and extending out to the cockpit. The accommodations are well-sized, light, and well ventilated. The forward-facing galley is modern, well finished, and practical. Overall this catamaran, with its large interior volume and well thought out design, would provide an exceptional level of comfort and safety to those who wish to enjoy the Bluewater cruising lifestyle.

Leopard 40 Specs

Make: leopard, catamaran rating, leopard 40 pictures, new catamaran reviews.

Seawind 1600

Privilege 585

Catamaran Makes

New reviews, most popular.

• About Leopard Catamarans

ABOUT LEOPARD CATAMARANS

Leopard Catamarans is proud to be part of the Travelopia group, which is solidly backed by the KKR fund  and is  a firm that can boast 28 billion dollars in investments. As global travel experts,Travelopia employs 2,000 people across 26 brands, bringing unique travel experiences tomore than 500,000 customers in over 150 destinations every year.

Robertson &Caine, a South African shipyard specializing in ocean-going multihulls, was founded in 1991 by John Robertson and Jerry Caine. Since 1995, Robertson & Cainehas enjoyed a close partnership with yacht charter company The Moorings, which was joinedsoon after bySunsail, both members of the Travelopia group. The idea was soon born tolaunch a version specifically for private owners so that they too could benefit from the exceptional qualities of these catamarans. These qualities that have been validated both by theirlong transatlantic passages and by their intensive use. The Leopard brand was established in 1997 and has enjoyed exponential success ever since. 

Today, Leopard yachts are recognized the world over not only for their remarkable design by naval architects Simonis & Voogd Yacht Design, but above all for their reliability, comfort and sea-keeping performance. We have achieved this high level of quality thanks to the cumulative experience of thousands of ownersand charterers. In a little over thirty years, we have developed 26 different models as part ofthis unique partnership, building a total of more than 2,600 sailing and power catamarans.

In Cape Town, the cradleof multihull sailing in the Southern Hemisphere, close to 200 employees put their all into building top-quality catamarans that meet the most stringent international standards. As global leaders in the sector, The Moorings and Sunsail enjoy exclusive production rights for the charter market. Leopard catamarans are available to private owners.

We are present in the United States, Europe and South Africa, of course, but also inAsia and Oceania. Our teams can therefore offer the most appropriate solution for every situation, from full ownership under the Leopard brand, to charter management/leasing programs with exceptional, guaranteed benefits with Sunsail or The Moorings. In all cases,owners and charterers benefit from the unrivalled reliability, comfort and performance o fLeopard catamarans. This explains why they are highly sought-after models on the second-hand market, for which our in-house brokerage service exists to accompany clients, both for the Leopard brand and for multihulls sailing under The Moorings or Sunsail flags.

Discover our Catamarans brochure

Learn more about us, robertson & caine, the leopard catamarans identity.

Evolving from 50 years of customer feedback, Leopard Catamarans has pooled their expertise with builders Robertson and Caine to design today’s Leopard range: spacious, robust, performance-driven blue water cruising catamarans.

• News & Events
• Our catamarans
• Sailing Range
• Power Range
• Leopard 40PC
• Leopard 46PC
• Leopard 53PC
• Download Brochure
• Terms of Privacy

©2024 Leopard Catamarans. All Rights Reserved

Choose Language