The Robertson and Caine Leopard 40 is a luxurious cruising catamaran that has been a favorite of boaters for many years. Known for its sleek design, spacious accommodations, and impressive performance, the Leopard 40 is a top choice for those seeking adventure on the water. With multiple models, specs, and price points to choose from, there is a Leopard 40 that can meet the needs of any boater.
The Leopard 40 is a product of Robertson and Caine, a South African boat builder that has been in business for over 30 years. The company is known for its high-quality construction and engineering, and the Leopard 40 is no exception. Built with a focus on comfort, safety, and performance, this catamaran is designed to provide an exceptional on-deck experience while also offering spacious accommodations below. With a range of models and variants to choose from, boaters can customize their Leopard 40 to meet their specific needs and preferences.
When it comes to market position and competitors, the Leopard 40 is a top performer. It competes with other high-end catamarans such as the Lagoon 40 and the Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40, but its combination of performance, comfort, and price point make it a standout in the market. With its impressive engineering, luxurious accommodations, and top-notch performance, the Leopard 40 is a top choice for boaters looking for a high-end cruising catamaran.
Key Takeaways
- The Leopard 40 is a luxurious cruising catamaran known for its sleek design, spacious accommodations, and impressive performance.
- Robertson and Caine is a South African boat builder with a reputation for high-quality construction and engineering.
- The Leopard 40 competes with other high-end catamarans such as the Lagoon 40 and the Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40, but its combination of performance, comfort, and price point make it a standout in the market.
Overview of the Leopard 40
The Leopard 40 is a cruising catamaran designed by Simonis Voogd Design and built by Robertson and Caine. It is a well-rounded vessel that offers a balance of performance, comfort, and style. The Leopard 40 is a part of the Leopard Catamarans range and was launched in 2014. It has since then become a popular choice among sailors and cruisers.
Design and Naval Architects
The Leopard 40 is a modern catamaran that boasts an innovative interior layout, increased volume in the hulls, and expanded windows and doors that blur the lines between inside and out. The design is a result of collaboration between Robertson and Caine and Naval Architects Simonis-Voogd. The Leopard 40 is a sleek and stylish vessel that is perfect for cruising.
Specifications and Dimensions
The Leopard 40 has a length of 39'4" (11.99m), a beam of 22'1" (6.73m), and a draft of 4'1" (1.25m). It has a displacement of 22,928 lbs (10,400 kg) and a sail area of 958 sq ft (89 sq m). The vessel has a fuel capacity of 95 US gal (360 L) and a water capacity of 206 US gal (780 L). The Leopard 40 can accommodate up to 6 guests in 3 cabins.
Performance and Cruising Capabilities
The Leopard 40 is a well-performing vessel that is capable of reaching a top speed of 10 knots under sail. It has a comfortable cruising speed of 7-8 knots and can handle a variety of sea conditions with ease. The vessel is equipped with a reliable rig and sails that make it easy to handle. The Leopard 40 offers a comfortable and spacious interior that is perfect for extended cruising.
Overall, the Leopard 40 is a well-designed and well-built catamaran that offers a balance of performance, comfort, and style. Its sleek design, spacious interior, and reliable performance make it a popular choice among sailors and cruisers. The Leopard 40 competes with other cruising catamarans in its class such as the Lagoon 40 and the Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40.
Construction and Engineering
Hull and Deck Design
The hull and deck of the Robertson and Caine Leopard 40 are made of GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic), which provides strength and durability to the structure. The deck is designed to be spacious and comfortable, with a large cockpit area that can accommodate up to 8 people. The cockpit features a table, seating, and a helm station with a full set of navigation instruments. The deck is also equipped with a swim platform, which provides easy access to the water.
Engine and Fuel System
The Leopard 40 is powered by twin Yanmar diesel engines, which are located in separate engine compartments for safety and ease of maintenance. The fuel system consists of two fuel tanks, with a total capacity of 370 liters. The engines are connected to sail drives, which provide efficient propulsion and maneuverability. The Leopard 40 has a top speed of 9 knots and a cruising speed of 7 knots.
Electrical Systems and Generator
The electrical system of the Leopard 40 is designed to be reliable and efficient, with a 12V DC system and a 220V AC system. The boat is equipped with a 3.5 kW generator, which provides power for the air conditioning, water maker, and other electrical appliances. The boat also has a battery bank, which can be charged by the generator or by the solar panels on the roof.
Overall, the construction and engineering of the Robertson and Caine Leopard 40 are of high quality, with attention to detail and safety. The boat is built in South Africa by Robertson and Caine, a well-known builder of sailing catamarans. The Leopard 40 is a popular model in its class, with competitors such as the Lagoon 40 and the Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40.
Accommodations and Interior
The Leopard 40 by Robertson and Caine offers a spacious and comfortable living space for its passengers. The interior is designed to maximize space utilization and provide ample natural light and ventilation. The light blonde interior finish adds to the open and airy feel of the living space.
Cabin Layout and Comfort
The Leopard 40 offers four cabins with a total of eight berths. The aft cabins are designed to provide maximum comfort and privacy for the occupants. The owner's suite is located in the starboard aft cabin and features a comfortable berth, ample storage space, and a private head and shower compartment. The innovative interior layout of the Leopard 40 provides for a panoramic view of the surroundings from the saloon and galley areas.
Galley and Saloon Features
The galley in the Leopard 40 is located in the forward port hull and features modern appliances and ample counter space. The saloon area is spacious and comfortable, with ample seating and a dining table that can accommodate eight people. The panoramic view from the saloon provides a great view of the surroundings while the passengers relax indoors.
Heads and Shower Compartments
The Leopard 40 features three heads and shower compartments, one of which is located in the owner's suite. The compartments are designed to provide maximum comfort and privacy for the passengers. The innovative layout of the compartments maximizes space utilization and provides ample storage space.
Overall, the Leopard 40 by Robertson and Caine offers a spacious and comfortable living space for its passengers. The innovative interior layout, light blonde interior finish, and panoramic view from the saloon make the Leopard 40 a great choice for those who value comfort and luxury. The Leopard 40 competes with other popular catamarans like the Lagoon 42 and the Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40.
On-Deck Experience
Cockpit and Outdoor Living
The cockpit of the Robertson and Caine Leopard 40 is spacious and well-designed, providing ample seating and lounging areas for guests. The aft cockpit is particularly roomy, with a large dining table and bench seating that can comfortably accommodate six people. The table can be lowered to create a daybed, making it a perfect spot for sunbathing or relaxing.
The outdoor living space on the Leopard 40 is impressive, with plenty of room for guests to spread out and enjoy the scenery. The forward cockpit area features a comfortable seating area with a table, while the aft cockpit is ideal for dining and entertaining.
Sailing and Handling
The Leopard 40 is a well-designed sailing catamaran that offers excellent performance and handling. The helm station is located on the starboard side of the cockpit, providing excellent visibility and easy access to all sail controls. The Leopard 40 is equipped with a full suite of sails, including a mainsail, genoa, and spinnaker, which provide excellent performance in a variety of wind conditions.
The Leopard 40 is also equipped with a number of safety features, including an AIS system and a windlass, which make it easy to anchor and secure the boat in a variety of conditions.
Safety and Gear
The Leopard 40 is designed with safety in mind, with a number of features that make it easy to handle and maneuver in a variety of conditions. The boat is equipped with a full suite of safety gear, including life jackets, flares, and a first aid kit, as well as an AIS system that provides real-time information on other boats in the area.
The Leopard 40 is also equipped with a number of gear features, including a windlass and a full suite of sails, which make it easy to handle and maneuver in a variety of wind conditions. The boat is also equipped with a number of storage compartments, which provide ample space for gear and supplies.
Performance Models and Variants
Leopard 40 Sailing Catamaran
The Leopard 40 is a cruising catamaran designed by Simonis Voogd Design in the Netherlands and built by Robertson and Caine in South Africa. The Leopard 40 sailing catamaran is a popular choice for those who enjoy long-range cruising in comfort and style. It has a length of 39'4" (11.99m) and a beam of 22'1" (6.73m). The boat is equipped with two Yanmar 3JH5E diesel engines, each producing 29 horsepower, which provide a cruising speed of 7 knots and a top speed of 9 knots.
The Leopard 40 sailing catamaran has a spacious interior that features a large saloon, a well-equipped galley, and four cabins. The boat is also equipped with a variety of amenities that make it ideal for extended cruising, including air conditioning, a watermaker, and a generator. The Leopard 40 is a popular choice for those who want to explore the world's oceans in comfort and style.
Leopard 40 Powercat
The Leopard 40 Powercat is a sporty addition to the Leopard Catamarans range for private owners and The Moorings charter fleet. It has a length of 39'4" (11.99m) and a beam of 19'9" (6.03m). The boat is equipped with two Yanmar 4JH45 diesel engines, each producing 45 horsepower, which provide a cruising speed of 8 knots and a top speed of 12 knots.
The Leopard 40 Powercat has a spacious interior that features a large saloon, a well-equipped galley, and four cabins. The boat is also equipped with a variety of amenities that make it ideal for extended cruising, including air conditioning, a watermaker, and a generator. The Leopard 40 Powercat is a popular choice for those who want to explore the world's oceans in comfort and style.
The Leopard 40 Powercat is a cruising catamaran that is designed to offer a smooth and comfortable ride. It is equipped with a variety of features that make it ideal for long-range cruising, including a spacious cockpit, a flybridge, and a large swim platform. The boat is also equipped with a variety of navigation and communication equipment, including a chartplotter, a VHF radio, and an autopilot.
In terms of pricing, the Leopard 40 sailing catamaran and the Leopard 40 Powercat are both priced competitively in their respective markets. The Leopard 40 sailing catamaran is priced at around $400,000, while the Leopard 40 Powercat is priced at around $500,000. The Leopard 40 sailing catamaran competes with other cruising catamarans, while the Leopard 40 Powercat competes with other power catamarans.
Market Position and Competitors
Price and Value Proposition
The Robertson and Caine Leopard 40 is a high-end cruising catamaran that is priced at around $769,000 for the basic 2023 model. While this price may seem steep, the Leopard 40 offers exceptional value for money, thanks to its high-quality construction, advanced features, and exceptional performance.
Compared to other cruising catamarans in its class, the Leopard 40 is competitively priced and offers a range of features that are unmatched by its competitors. These features include a spacious and comfortable interior, excellent sailing performance, and advanced safety features that make it a popular choice among sailors and cruising enthusiasts.
Comparable Models from Competitors
While the Robertson and Caine Leopard 40 is a standout model in the cruising catamaran market, it does face competition from other high-end models in its class. Some of the most notable competitors include the Lagoon 40, the Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40, and the Bali 4.1.
The Lagoon 40 is a popular cruising catamaran that offers a range of advanced features, including a spacious interior, excellent sailing performance, and advanced safety features. However, the Lagoon 40 is priced slightly higher than the Leopard 40, making it less accessible to some buyers.
The Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40 is another popular cruising catamaran that offers a range of advanced features, including a spacious and comfortable interior, excellent sailing performance, and advanced safety features. However, the Lucia 40 is priced slightly higher than the Leopard 40, making it less accessible to some buyers.
The Bali 4.1 is a high-end cruising catamaran that offers a range of advanced features, including a spacious and comfortable interior, excellent sailing performance, and advanced safety features. However, the Bali 4.1 is priced slightly higher than the Leopard 40, making it less accessible to some buyers.
Overall, the Robertson and Caine Leopard 40 is a standout model in the cruising catamaran market, offering exceptional value for money, advanced features, and exceptional performance. While it does face competition from other high-end models in its class, the Leopard 40 stands out as a top choice for buyers looking for a high-quality cruising catamaran.
Ownership Experience
Charter Programs and Partnerships
Robertson and Caine Leopard 40 is a popular choice for charter programs and partnerships, such as The Moorings. The Moorings offers a variety of sailing vacations that allow guests to experience the beauty of destinations such as the Bahamas and beyond. The Leopard 40 is a great choice for those looking for a comfortable and spacious catamaran that can accommodate up to eight guests.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Maintenance and upkeep are important aspects of owning a Robertson and Caine Leopard 40. The catamaran is built to high standards and requires regular maintenance to keep it in top condition. Owners can attend maintenance seminars at events such as the Miami International Boat Show to learn more about how to properly care for their vessel.
Community and Events
Robertson and Caine Leopard 40 owners are part of a vibrant community of sailors who share a passion for sailing and adventure. Owners can participate in events such as The Moorings Owners Rendezvous, which brings together Leopard owners from around the world for a week of sailing, socializing, and fun.
Overall, owning a Robertson and Caine Leopard 40 is a rewarding experience for those who love sailing and adventure. With its spacious interior, comfortable accommodations, and excellent performance, the Leopard 40 is a great choice for those looking to explore destinations such as the Bahamas and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the specifications of the most recent Leopard 40 model?
The most recent Leopard 40 model is a 39'4" (11.99m) cruising catamaran designed by Simonis Voogd Design. It is built by Robertson and Caine and was launched in 2014. The Leopard 40 is available in either a 3 cabin, 2 head version, or a 4 cabin, 2 head version. It has a beam of 22'1" (6.73m) and a draft of 4'1" (1.25m). The boat has a sail area of 1,001 sq ft (92.99 sq m) and a displacement of 23,790 lbs (10,799 kg).
How does the price of a new Leopard 40 compare to similar catamarans in its class?
The Leopard 40 is priced at around $500,000, with an additional $100,000 needed to fully equip it with everything needed to be ready to go cruising. Compared to similar catamarans in its class, the price of the Leopard 40 is similar. However, the price can vary depending on the location and year of manufacture.
Who are the main competitors of the Leopard 40 in the current market?
The main competitors of the Leopard 40 in the current market include the Lagoon 40, the Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40, and the Bali 4.1. These catamarans are similar in size, price, and performance.
What are the unique features that distinguish the Leopard 40 from other catamarans?
The Leopard 40 has several unique features that distinguish it from other catamarans in its class. These include a spacious cockpit with a hardtop bimini, a large forward cockpit, and a forward-facing navigation station. The boat also has an innovative interior layout, increased volume in the hulls, and a large open-plan saloon.
Can you provide a review summary of the Leopard 40's performance and seaworthiness?
According to a review by Cruising World, the Leopard 40 has excellent performance and seaworthiness. The boat is easy to handle and has a good turn of speed. The boat also has a comfortable motion in a seaway and is well-balanced under sail.
What are the expected maintenance costs for owning a Leopard 40?
The expected maintenance costs for owning a Leopard 40 can vary depending on the age and condition of the boat. However, as with any boat, regular maintenance is required to keep the boat in good condition. This includes routine engine and generator maintenance, sail and rigging checks, and regular bottom painting. It is recommended to budget around 10% of the purchase price per year for maintenance costs.