Fountaine Pajot Astrea 42 Catamaran Tour 2021 | Our Search For The Perfect Catamaran

Welcome to the Fountaine Pajot Astrea 42 Catamaran tour. The Fountaine Pajot Astrea 42 catamaran is new to the market and will be very popular to those looking for a new sailing catamaran or a charter.
Fountaine Pajot have over 30 years experience of building catamarans. In addition to this over 100 of these boats were sold from the plans alone before its debut. This 42 foot catamaran will be hugely popular with the charter market, but how will it fare as a contender for Ruby Rose 2? Welcome to our catamaran tour,
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[@LoanwordEggcorn]

4:47 For the steering linkage, it depends where the bearings are. The tube shown is in double shear, which is actually stronger and possibly more rigid than a single shear rod end bearing. One nice thing about the FP Astrea implementation shown is the plastic bushing to reduce cathodic corrosion between the Aluminum parts and steel bolt. Spherical rod end bearings usually also have plastic bushings in the ball socket (except on pure racing cars). The Astrea styling, layout, colors, helm are all very good. Agree it's built to a price, but it mostly looks good. The master bathroom is very nice and the berths are nice. So's the saloon and galley. And the outdoor spaces. Nav station at an angle is a slightly odd solution. Your scores for Astrea seem biased low.

[@jimbarber9987]

LOVING your reviews. I'm 10 years out from living full time like you are and these are the boats that will be in my price range 10 years from now. Very informative. Thank you.

[@rustycomer8502]

I truly appreciate the work you guys are putting into these reviews! I am finding them to be extremely fair, well done, and helpful. Looking forward to seeing more to come! Thank you.

[@MrRawnerves]

FP’s in my opinion are design and built for the charter market not for the live aboard sailor and your outstanding reportage and attention to detail confirms my view. Great reporting, thanks.

[@SailingDoubleTrouble]

Fountaine Pajot owners here 😊. We have a Lipari Evo (40ft 2014 model ). We are the second owners. We don't disagree with any of the points you have raised. We love our boat, however would not even consider buying one of the new FP models, if and when we upgrade. ( in fairness ,we wouldn't buy brand new , even if we could afford to) We have read so many bad reports about the workmanship and finish on the new models, not to mention the lack of customer service when trying to get things put right. Love the reviews. Keep em coming ....

[@RexWaldron]

Having binge watched your videos for the past week I'm finally up to date. I'm not a sailor but your videos are compelling viewing into a new world for me. These catamaran reviews are fascinating. I'm not competent to score these, but on a general level, I think the Seawind 1600 looks most suited to you guys out of the ones you've reviewed so far. It's more expensive than the others but somehow seems better overall value once you have added extras and would keep you safe and moving on those long hauls you love so much! Cheers guys :)

[@sailingrubyrose]

Thanks my friend. Glad you’ve caught up with the back catalogue.

[@michellethelander1735]

Your review videos are fantastic! Thank you for all the hard work you’ve put in to sharing with us.

[@sailingrubyrose]

Thanks mate

[@patricknagel9065]

Great review again, you could put up storage space too, especially for passage making! Can't wait to see the Leopard 45 review, definitely was my overall favorite in Gran Motte for live aboard choices...

[@pezpengy9308]

i'm watching this for the information on the boats, as we are not without modest means and may someday make the jump ourselves but content aside i must complement you on your presentation and graphics. stunningly beautiful and simply effective. bravo sir. ma`am. whomever is doing the videos. :)

[@ernestdougherty3162]

A big thumbs up love the video I'm definitely loving your survey of these catamarans and seeing the difference in them and that seems to be a huge difference in a lot of them I appreciate you sharing that information with us thank you have a great day see you on the next one

[@LightWaterRecords]

Cushions for 8000, thats why they are so comfy!

[@Frindleeguy]

I've been on FP's at boat shows, including used ones. I don't understand how this boat maker is still in business, these are not worth as much as the competition. Not even close. Besides, how can anything beat the SeaWind? If it's not too small you guys might enjoy walking on the 1260 as well. Or even the go fast 1190 sport if you want to fly. The open concept makes the boats feel HUGE in my opinion. Good luck, hope you find one you love!

[@Eddie_-_]

Seawind 1600 is a beautiful boat. Maybe the best boat for a couple circumnavigating the world. But the 1260 has it's looks against it. FP has done great job with the design, that is also important when ppl spend this amount of money. Same as with cars.

[@royprevost1154]

Thanks guys, enjoyed the review

[@brettney72]

Your excellent at this review stuff even if youre not a professional as you say but youre real and what designers have no idea about what really goes on at sea

[@duathlete827]

I'd think the steering hardware inefficiencies/system would just be the tip of the iceberg and reflect poorly on much of the hardware and systems you cannot see. Looks like they've decided to reduce cost etc. I'd worry about the electrical systems etc and if they have taken shortcuts on build and quality.

[@BobWiersema]

I was just thinking that. Did they use the cheapest water pumps and fittings available? All the little things that would make it maintenance heavy in a couple years. I think it's meant for the charter market, its a 3 year boat.

[@karenbaselgia659]

Really enjoying your reviews. We have just bought a used 2017 Leopard 40 here in Australia which we will keep for a few years with a plan to buy a boat out of the Med to sail home eventually. I am on the Facebook groups for FP Lagoon and Leopard and whilst I can see they all seem to have there issues the complaints from new owners of FP’s seem to ring the loudest. The quality seems to be the worst of all of them which is a real shame because we really like the look of the Astrea. Look forward to more of your reviews. Your doing a great job 👍

[@B2bsellingskillsAu]

Really interesting review from our point of view as we have ordered one to pick up next year. We came up with a huge list of advantages over the Lagoon 42 and the Seawind 1260 (and we currently own a Seawind 1160). We have the ordered the Comfort Version with the upgraded 40hp engines and folding props, a parasail, Code 0, watermaker, generator, 1KW Solar, partial air con and a heap of other creature comforts and it's coming in at just over 500K Euro. (No lift platform, no tax). I'll be interested to see your costings when they go up on the website. Yes, the steering mechanism needs revising but apart from that the biggest downside for the Astrea is the two-year waiting list because the demand has been so strong. We'll let you know how we go and look forward to the future reviews.

[@kirk9671]

I am ready to order the astrea. Can you go into more detail why u chose the fp over the lagoon? What is your take on the overall quality? I am not technical, I just don't like the lagoon helm station chair. It is not comfortable all for me.

[@williamlawton4451]

Great video very informative love your analysis found you when you were sailing with the wins and I’m glad I subscribed keep up the great work look forward to your next one

[@sailingrubyrose]

Cheers mate, next review out over the coming days.

[@kirk9671]

We just chartered the astrea. It is my only cat experience. It was more fun to sail than I expected. Even though I am not that good of a sailor, we did 7 knots easy. 8 was doable as well.. In a 40 foot mono, 5 was normal. Note u can't see through the sail and there are many boats to hit in the bvi. Which .makes me wonder if looking under the sail is better.

[@oliver5080]

I to like many see the base price and the option list increasing the boat price unjustly, my view as when buying a car many things are not needed and retro fitting is a much better option. Cushions, electrical equipment,nav equipment, etc are much cheaper if you buy from other suppliers, if you have a knowledge of maintenance on a boat it’s simple.

[@skwyrz1]

You overlooked all those sharp corner's.Great video though.

[@leslieholmes2899]

I noticed that as well.

[@wjhann4836]

"Only a 6 in safety - I think, your nice. AFAIK the liferaft should be accessible also if the cat capsized but this seems not the case if stored under the stairs. Steering rods - I want to fully agree, that's simply crab. Dinghy platform: I know, hoisting the Dinghy at davits is a lot of work, even more fastening it against swinging. But I'm not sure if such a platform is durable. I don't know the effects of waves crushing against it.

[@kevinborders1546]

Do you have a deal inked with Seawind yet?

[@marceld6061]

Your review was spot on. She's pretty to look at (are we still talking about the FP? 😉) The 'outdoor living space' and interior do LOOK the part with a nicely laid out galley, island beds and that lovely master shower room. There are quite a few sharp looking corners on the cabinetry though, wouldn't you say? One consideration of the raised helm station is that it also raises your mainsail boom about a metre. To get the same sail area, you end up with a taller mast. FP did do a good job from a comfort and safety standpoint.

[@tbonemc2118]

Thanks for your review. A couple of comments. The raised steering position to my mind would have to be one of the most miserable places to be for anything other than when the sun is directly overhead on a hot day. Also any time it's wet, windy and cold. The visibility is great without a foresail up but what would be the plan for when you need to know all about what you can't see past a sail. You are 100% right with the steering gear. Aluminium is too soft for that and most applications where a connection is loaded as it will quickly flog out. In this case probably before the nylon bush wears through. You guys scored the interior highly even though it had minimal rounded edges?

[@DE1049]

I nelieve David and Amy on Starry Horizons actually did hsve exactly the failure you predicted on the steering with that nylon bushing. Bit after 3 years from France to Indonesia. But they have been sailing their Helia 44 for 4 years. David did a review sometime in the last year giving a real world review of yhe yacht. Overall I would have been disappointed with the failures they suffered through with a brand .new boat.

[@buccaneerbeth3452]

Great review.... You Two are really lovely and so knowledgeable.....I’m learning so much ....so farThe beautiful Seawind 1600 on my Christmas List 😂😂😘

[@eduardomeirelles5390]

again...great video...these videos have been really helpful...they set nice standards for evaluating boats...especially cats... can't wait for the review on the leopards and mavericks... Thanks

[@onthebeaches]

Thanks for sharing this and I would have never caught the tie rod thing. Good find Nick! That's what makes you NICK!! PEACE OUT! Ü

[@youngypaul]

These reviews are excellent. Keep them up. Then do cruising Monohulls.

[@duathlete827]

As I've mentioned before, very well done vid with a professional look. It will be interesting to see which cat you end up going with. The type of comparison indicators and process you're using is the way I'd be doing my research as well.

[@tihomirrasperic]

you know what will be in end ? they will buy 100 ft mono-hull or gullet ;)

[@SR-dm5lh]

Nick, As you mentioned, you are not an expert. I am an expert and you are spot on.

[@sailingrubyrose]

Cheers my friend. Let us know your credentials so we can shore up our points.

[@SR-dm5lh]

@@sailingrubyroseI am a mechanical engineer with over 17 years of design experience. However you look at that joint, especially when you move it around the end, it doesn't look right, regardless of what they have been using under the plate (probably a nut with a securing pin). My only explanation is that this is just a quick fix someone used to put this boat on the road. As you like it so much, I would contact the company and ask.

[@sailingrubyrose]

I wish my friend. I have seen 4 fountaine Pajots now. All have the same steering mechanism. I thought the same at first, that someone had thrown it together to get it to a boat show.

[@SR-dm5lh]

@@sailingrubyrose replacing this won't be a big issue. but I agree with Mark S, these kind of things make you loose confidence in the boat.

[@sailingtribu]

I have never been a fan of FP Catamarans. I visited the Saba 50 when it was launched and there were so many quality details, that I decided to leave.

[@curbstomp3126]

I will say this. The neoprene washers are used in heavy truck springs as bushings and seem to hold up well.

[@murraywagnon1841]

What about all of those sharp corners? They made the hair stand up on the back of my neck.

[@lordhydromage6614]

I like the Leopards but am very very very concerned about that front cockpit filling with water from a large wave and causing the boat to become unstable. Is this a valid concern or not?

[@SuperKman77]

Great review as always. Love the system you’ve got going. Still blown away by Adam “Mythbuster” Savage being onboard too. How cool!!!

[@TheAtma50]

Hi Guys, Great reviews ... Did ye get any feed back from the Cat builders on your reviews .. I wonder what there take is on what ye think. Not that it matters, Your honesty and standards speaks volumes !!

[@sailingrubyrose]

So far silence from Lagoon, Seawind picked up on it and shared it, and the lawyer at FP are probably still sharpening their quills.

[@TheAtma50]

Don't worry about the lawyers.... We'll start a bail out fund for you !! LOL

[@bar10dr]

Wow at 0:48 - That's Adam Savage from Mythbusters

[@Lilou34650]

Great Review, thanks 👍

[@corockclimber]

Love the reviews and honesty! I know it is out of your price range, but would love to hear your opinion on the Xquisite X5! BTW, Peter McKinnon used your intro music on his latest video.....totally confused me on what KZbin video I was about to watch! Lol As always, keep the videos coming! Shawn

[@sailingrubyrose]

Yeah, he’s always asking us for tips ;)

[@nickfury324]

Scratch one Fountaine Pajot Catamaran....By the way. I see you'r enjoying life on the canals in France. Do you think you could do it full time? I ask because my wife and I are looking into possibly buying a barge and living aboard. Happy sailing, really looking forward to you getting into the coast line of northern France. Another great episode and stay safe.

[@snartzzb983]

Some boats are wonderful when tied to the dock...others are best appreciated at sea. Choose wisely.

[@dirtroadsailing6418]

So, to summarize, it's a great boat if you don't have to live on it or sail it.

[@Tkhub0]

I like her accent and voice 👍

[@bill4nier]

Thank you for the review, I learn something every time. At some point could address, in more detail what you are looking for to make a boat blue water ready? Thanks again for sharing. 👍👍👍👍👍😊⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵

[@billheffernan4545]

correctly pointed out on the steering as a mechanical engineer and professional yachtsman since 1985 this is a big concern the way the helm system is put together

[@lkm5462]

Excellent job. I should make cushions for them

[@dokerbohm9209]

loved your review honest comments real sense advice on a purchase of a cat for avg type people

[@Brian-id9sk]

I love this series and I'm 100% with ditching those silly tubes with a bolt stuck in them. Its a shame they built the cabinets and table to a cheap price point on a 500k boat with 8k cushions.

[@travlnchaz239]

Hey just wondering if when you have all these posted,are you going to create a watchlist with just these?

[@snoopybluejeans]

Haha...maybe, hopefully when they are finished doing their reviews? Good idea for sure

[@sailingrubyrose]

Yes mate, there is already a playlist

[@Allan_aka_RocKITEman]

FWIW: I am NOT a sailor, as I have mentioned previously in comments on a few other videos of yours. That said, I *AM* experienced in *AVIATION.* Regarding that steering tube setup you discuss, starting at about 04:31 in this video: Some aircraft use _push-pull tubes and linkages_ {versus cables} in their flight control systems. *ALL* aircraft flight control tube systems use *SOME FORM* of _rod end bearings and fittings._ The _bolt thru the tube_ thing you show on *THIS BOAT* would *NEVER FLY* - BOTH _figuratively_ AND _literally_ - on an aircraft. 'Nuff said.... *EDIT:* In addition to just being a _weak_ mechanical connection, the _tension and compression forces_ being applied to that rod are NOT in a *straight line* from one end to the other. Looking at the the still image at 05:04, the force from the belt crank to the bolt to the tube is going through TWO 90° turns {for lack of a better word}, versus a straight travel. That gives the end of that bellcrank a TWISTING LOADas well as a compression/tension load. I am NOT a mechanical engineer in ANY SENSE OF THE TERM, but having been involved in aircraft maintenance for about...forever 😊...I think I have some authority to comment. 'Nuff said #2....

[@lindaeatonbrenizer3479]

Looks good and Plush. But have to have a boat that holds up. Thank you.

[@geoffgelow4241]

Have you looked at the Island Spirit catamarans? I know their main model is an open concept, that I am not sure I like. But they do have an enclosed model too. Just curious?

[@sailingrubyrose]

If they are showing at Annapolis we will we see them

[@clarkkent2913]

How about an Outremer cat? The one like Le Vagabonde? Looking much nicer (and more as a performance boat) than the charter style boats you checked up to now.

[@tihomirrasperic]

and much more pricier... more money, more music.

[@razorl82]

I hear a lot of reviews talk about the positive of having a helm station in a position that allows for communication with the cockpit occupants. How important is that to you guys and what you're looking for in a boat vs having a fly bridge helm?

[@snoopybluejeans]

When there's only two aboard and your crossing oceans or even much smaller passages, it makes a huge difference. A fly bridge has you totally isolated from your fellow crew person and a sport version gives you the ability to interact with your other crew member...in good times or bad. And that's only one advantage. Fly bridges are party boats, great for coastal weekenders and/or unless you have a big permanent crew.

[@Mr12frod]

awesome job

[@jomjom75]

Adam Savage at 0:48

[@bryonensminger7462]

I noticed that the lack of hand holds on deck carried right through the interior of the boat as well

[@MetalDetectingwithCZkidd]

What’s the lead time when you order one of these popular brands?

[@stevefuller6499]

Hi Guys, if possible, it would be great to hear your thoughts on the Nautitech-40-open

[@sailingrubyrose]

It’s coming my friend. We filmed it and will review it over the coming weeks

[@murraydrum]

I agree with "prettiest boat." She's gorgeous and I love the layout; for live aboard comfort she checks all my boxes. But I'm SHOCKED at the placement of the life raft. And I'm really disappointed with the build quality; seems even less robust than the Helia. Thanks for pointing out the steering mechanism. Also, I see the swim/tender platform as a negative. It adds a tremendous amount of weight in the rear, and adds a lot of complexity and potential maintenance headaches, not to mention the extra costs. I think Leopard's solution to a dinghy lift is ideal: gets the tender high out of the water, it's lightweight, and simple in design and potential maintenance. There will be a lot of these FP 42's coming out of charter in 3-4 years when I'll be buying a used cat, but I'm afraid the build quality will be eliminating this as a choice for us. Time will tell. Thanks again for your videos! Can't wait to say thank you in person and buy you two some drinks! Maybe in Annapolis?

[@MusicMike939]

I can't afford a pot to piss in. But if I could afford a Catamaran, I would watch your reviews before buying.

[@sailingrubyrose]

Mate, that’s one of the nicest things anyone’s said. Cheers

[@ChristianGrams]

Don´t get the extras from the company but from after market 3rd party - far cheaper in almost everything.

[@simoncornwel-smith5322]

Neel 51 please!!!!!!!

[@robistech3477]

I just learnt about your reviews and I really love them. It's not just cupboards and curtains.... Also the point assessment across different subjects and work groups is awesome. I have a Lipari and I agree with you the steering rod is not a good design. Also the davits are only now since the Tanna 47 useable on short crewed or single handed boats. What really bothers me in the cockpit on all FP boats is that the engine start / stop and the instruments are behind the steering wheel. Activate them while on autopilot is a nuisance. Also for cruisers a headache is the anchor dropping behind the trampoline. I do not like that, especially since I got a new trampoline that goes right to the edge and does not allow anything to fall in the water. My next boat will be a Lagoon 42 and I really appreciated the comparison. With your valuation you clearly distanced yourself from the co mmon talk of Lagoon being a "shoe box". For your movies a 9 out of 10. Wanna get a 10? For me also importamnt on the reviews are the anchor / windlass and the oven in the galley. As a cook / baker on passage I love a good oven with under - top heat, grill function and grill spit. But a love your site subscribed to it- well done.

[@tomtiernan8134]

In general, boats should be outfitted as if they’re going to do blue water. The steering mechanism looks unfit for bay sailing. Not a seasoned sailor but some things are just plain obvious.

[@ukusagent]

No you are absolutely Right in your assessment of this boat The crudely pitiful Steering linkage ( as Mark S said looks like a school boys go kart ) Plus having a second hole 90 degrees to it makes it a huge weak point , Rose joints are like £15.59 for heavy duty ones They can't spend £32 for peace of mind , plus with this being a show boat The under basin counter top being rough , when you open the cupboard at 5:51 the huge black lines of fit in the panels at the back , It really make you think where else are the cutting corners and cost , Fittings seacocks through hulls , And the life raft placement is just criminal , who ever designed that into the boat should have their ass kicked . as when you need safety gear god forbid your in the shit , its got to be quick easy safe and if things are the worst possible automatic . The sea can be a Cruel Mistress , and I think she will spank this Boat over time , A flexing Hardtop At anchor Hmmm The price is High the build quality isn't , I think they have cut corners and quality to meet the 100+ pre orders they already had , Brilliant Review

[@sphinx2k210]

Twin helms is better! Seawind know this. BYO cushions.

[@whitewaterplayboating]

A good Cat but nothing "special". Of these three I know which I like best.

[@rustie4242]

It's a charter boat and no where near a world blue water cruising boat, it's chalk and cheese....

[@terencesmith4137]

I would trust the reviews of an experienced sailor such as yourself over some salesmen or someone who has very little actual experience

[@hungry4solidtrax]

Hi Nick, I think you are very right to pull the steering linkage up. The design is what one could expect from a school boy building a go cart. I wouldn’t dream of building any sea going vessel with such a weak link in such an important place. Also, it’s the hidden details like under the sinks that are indicative of the general build quality throughout the vessel. Great review, keep them coming.

[@mikemb3754]

yep absolutely. the steering mechanism is really bad.

[@trumpetmano]

Grab rails and life raft location shouldn't be a game changer, you can install rail and relocate the life raft. Same for rudder hardware-switch to stainless. I do love how you get down to the nitty gritty Nick. "Heard stories about Pajot's not having a decent long life with their interiors.

[@rjtumble]

Sure looked like that was Adam Savage getting a tour at the same time you guys were on the boat. At about 1:15 into the video.

[@atomicsmith]

Wow good eye. I think that may be him.

[@markchapel]

I came to the comments because of exactly that. If it wasn't Adam, he has a 99.9% doppelganger out there.

[@SVAvalon]

Fountaine Pajot standard location is to put the life raft in a cockpit locker which has a drop out bottom to launch it. No need to lift it at all. They typically put it behind the stairs for boat shows to let you look in the locker. If you go back on a Fountain Pajot, open the cockpit seat storage in the center and you should see a drop out bottom panel for launching.

[@KenBlackRifleAmerica]

Sorry guys, my vote was off....it should've read, 4-4-7-4-3 and comment: I liked the Fountaine Pajot, I think Nick said it all, "a pretty boat"....but some of the lacking issues such as steering joints, blind spot when backing, hardtop flexing in the breeze would worry me on a blue water sail with winds at 30 plus knots. Edges on some corners in the Galley and Salon were a bit suspect. I did love the swim platform on the stern and size of the master cabin and head. As always, Cheers to you both looking forward to the next! 🍺🍷😎

[@kongkjetil]

We were there the same day. I can see it in the wind. And that my wife is on the couch :) we liked many things with the Astrea. One was the control positions. One can communicate easily with the rest of the boat. One can also contact the person who is in the maestro bedroom if you open the hatch in the bedroom. The sofa group in front of course. The bathing platform / boat platform. For bathers and dogs. Especially as is a 42 ft. I am seeing that some has mounted a brace on the lip of the astreas behind the solar cell panel. But wonder if it cannot be a challenge over time with weak points. Will be exciting to see what happens there over time. Was really easy to see the day we was there since it blew so much. The bathroom is well utilized. With "big" shower. On the guest side you can have a door on the option you push on so you get a big shower there as well. All in all, we thought it was the best boat on La grande motte in that size.

[@esquire9445]

He is correct, Heim's joints would be better than what is on there.... HOWEVER, us 4x4 people all know Johnny Joints are 10x better than Heims joints. So if you are going to do it, do it with Johnny.

[@bgauthi1]

Nick I don't think you should be worried like you were about legalities of your review. You showed the steering and other details that are lacking for what you would want to do and examples to compare with other designs to show why you had that opinion. I personally would feel the same about it even if I was just day sailing. I would even consider replacing the entire steering connections with something stronger. But at what cost? $8K for cushions? That is insane. Eye watering indeed. The FP is more for the casual cruiser and charter business. I wouldn't want to make it a live aboard. And the life raft placement! Are they kidding? That would have failed the boat alone for me. I think you were generous with a 4 rating for safety and build quality. Great helm design not withstanding. And the swim platform/dingy hoist feels high end but if the mechanism to run it is as well done as the steering how long will it last? And if it fails in the down position? You literally would not be able to go anywhere until it was fixed. Well you can scratch the Astrea off the list. Great review. Tried to show all the good with the bad. I am looking forward to the next review already. Take care.

[@snoopybluejeans]

LIfe raft placement was huge for me as well... and it definitely makes you think where else they skimped on safety features. Good lad Nick, he found the rudder issue. Haha, 8 thousands...stuff it FP.

[@VERTICALWisdom]

Great video with an honest review that is logically thought out. As all the cats are being reviewed with the same set of standards. Very fair. Thank you. Don't be defensive, it is your opinion and we watch and learn.

[@kirk9671]

If the same steering system is used on older boat designs, then there should be some empirical evidence as to whether it is strong enough or not. There is a history. Anyone hear of folks saying their steering died on an FP?

[@adymatt334]

Your comments about the steering system seemed like fair criticism until you said they have the same set up on the Helia. They sold heaps of Helia models and many of them have sailed all over the world without any problems in this area. The only real issues I’ve heard of is the escape hatch becoming unsealed.

[@anneheradstveit8960]

You know the life raft can be stored in and deployed from the bench in the cockpit, simply by open a hatch ? Under stairway storage is optional. Absolutely room for quality improvement in different departments, but performance vice this cat would outperform even much bigger Lagoons in my experience, regardless polar diagrams. Visited the factory in april this year and are pretty sure "back bone" construction is rigth at the top of the game. Hopefully the staff at FP also take notes from your review :-) Prices for optionals are insane.

[@TheMorganMonroeShow]

Hey Nick, just wanted to pitch this afternoon. After you complete this series on catamarans I think it would be a great idea if you would combine them all together into one double XL segment. It would be much appreciated. It would give us a different perspective if we could have them all combined together. We could name the combined series “ The gnarliest of the north catamaran gig”. That being said, at the end of the series you could say SOYF. That’s short Stay Off Your Face! Which is a request I made back when you were in the United States. I feel there’s no better way of saying goodbye then that. The fact is, it seems to be working well for me.

[@sailingrubyrose]

Consider it done my man!

[@TheMorganMonroeShow]

You’re the man and #OfTheEpic and I’m #Stoked.

[@TheMorganMonroeShow]

LOL

[@TomBurns-OtterVentures]

another great review. Could you add the links? I am sure the French countryside was distracting you. ;-)

[@DHGroove]

Thanks for doing these reviews. Its refreshing seeing actual reviews instead of boat seller "reviews". Hope you find the right one.

[@10lauset]

Whatever is going to breakdown is going to breakdown. I suppose that the delivery services will get to you but in the middle of an ocean? What's really important is the ruggedness of your equipment. You get what you pay for but superficial items are just distractions. Blue water sailors should know what's important when the chips are down, shouldn't builders?

[@andypennybrown6848]

Great review again, I think that you are being very very reasonable in your comments, many thanks

[@patrickwilk6342]

I love your Cat reviews. You state your position and your thinking, even documenting what you are talking about, I.e. steering, tie rod and life raft. Clearly, this Cat was designed for looks and the design of the cockpit, saloon and cabins was very good. But the negative issues on this Cat outweigh the the positive design features. Great job. Remember there will always be people who are going to disagree with you.

[@englishmaninfrance661]

What about buying the base model, take it away, and have it specced to your specific requirements elsewhere. Like guys build custom cars or motorbikes. I mean, you obviously like the boat , it has a lot going for it. But , upgrades from basic are 'eyewatering'. So, get it done somewhere else, and end with the best of both worlds :)

[@co4x4]

I'm not in the market for a cat, but if I was, I would absolutely take your reviews and advice over any salesperson. Good job you two! Cheers from Denver Colorado USA!

[@Michael-el8xl]

have you seen the poor-mans live-aboard The Adventura 150k pounds or euros can't remember it is weak on marketing lol kzbin.info/www/bejne/qpbPqYRnhKd6g9k face it only the wealthy and folks with unique money situations can really think about purchasing a cat much less run/upkeep...most are old and retired and cash in the land assets...young folk haven't had time to sock away $500k to a Million

[@TutaraTours]

I'm sailing a bran-new 47, and you are right, the steering linkage won't last, I'm looking at changing the system, so it won't give us issues in the future, also 1.5 turns lock to lock, in a following sea with out the auto pilot, it's hard, hand steering. Thanks so much for your appraisal of the 42, your right on target.

[@lnewbyliveca]

Great reviews.......you need to buy near new, well equipped and used where someone else takes a big hit on the early depreciation ;).

[@haraldschilling412]

Great Work guys, Please review the new Bali 4.2 with the front door ...

[@svens.5139]

I would always choose Ruby Rose if I had to, what a sturdy massive and save boat, she´s a real passage maker compared to Fountaine Pajot. Greets from good ol Germany.

[@jupham4771]

I have 1 suggestion for the reviews, which are the best I've ever seen. Well Done. The suggestion is small, just add a visual of the competitors scores in each category to see the reviewed Catamaran's has strengths and weaknesses in each category based on the competition. Wish you both the best in your sailing future.

[@merlin4432]

Hi i'm impressed with the review, I do agree in particular with the life raft position it is not good. As for the steering linkages i do agree that it could be better. Perhaps for the charter market it is appropriate in that charter boats are generally well maintained and to replace and maintain would be cheaper and easier with the standard installation. I'm impressed with you both sailing around and having a good time, i wish my wife and I could do the same thing. Thanks,