Lafitte 66 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Lafitte 66 begins with its production start year in 1982, emerging from the yards of Chung Hwa Boatworks in Taiwan. The vessel was designed by Robert Perry, a prolific and highly respected naval architect known for his innovative and practical cruising designs. Perry's design philosophy for the Lafitte series, including the 66, was to evolve the "Swan concept" further towards dedicated cruising, creating yachts that were both capable performers and comfortable homes on the water.

Chung Hwa Boat (CHB) itself was established in 1971 in Kaohsiung, South Taiwan, and played a significant role in Taiwan's burgeoning yacht-building industry. While primarily recognized for its durable trawler-style powerboats, CHB also produced a limited number of sailboats specifically for export. The company's ethos during this era centered on quality craftsmanship and the use of robust fiberglass as its primary construction material, emphasizing seaworthiness, stability, and efficiency—qualities highly valued in a vessel intended for long-range cruising. The construction of a sophisticated ketch like the Lafitte 66 highlights CHB's versatile production capabilities, even if their sailboat output was less prolific than their powerboat ventures.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Lafitte 66 is a formidable vessel, measuring 66 feet in length overall with a substantial displacement of 67,000 pounds and a 52.25-foot waterline. Designed as a ketch, it features a sail plan configured for versatile handling in varying conditions.

Analysis of its key performance ratios provides insight into its intended sailing characteristics:

• Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 13.41: This relatively low ratio suggests that the Lafitte 66 is not primarily designed for exceptional light-air performance. Instead, it indicates a robust vessel that can carry its sail plan comfortably in moderate to strong winds, prioritizing stability and power in a seaway over blistering speed in marginal conditions.
• Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Bal/Disp) of approximately 0.288 (28.8%): While not in the highest range for ultimate stiffness, this ballast ratio contributes to a comfortable and steady motion, essential for a long-distance cruiser. It implies a design that balances stability with a forgiving ride, important for crew comfort on extended voyages.
• Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 209.45: This moderate D/L ratio for its length indicates that the Lafitte 66, despite its substantial displacement, is relatively efficient for its size. It suggests a design capable of achieving its hull speed efficiently without being excessively heavy, aligning with Robert Perry's aim for a "fast and weatherly ocean cruiser."

Anecdotal evidence from designer Robert Perry suggests satisfaction with the Lafitte 66's design and handling characteristics, with Perry noting it as "a favorite design for me of the Perry legacy" and observing that its initial handling was manageable. The fin keel and skeg-hung rudder further contribute to its maneuverability and control offshore.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 66-foot ketch designed for world cruising, the Lafitte 66 would naturally offer extensive and luxurious accommodations, designed to provide comfort and functionality for extended periods at sea. While specific detailed layouts require further in-depth review, the available information confirms that the single built Lafitte 66 features an owner's stateroom model.

Given Robert Perry's general approach to interior design, which he has expressed pride in for other Lafitte models, it is reasonable to infer that the Lafitte 66's interior would be thoughtfully arranged and finished to a high standard. A vessel of this size typically includes multiple cabins, generously proportioned salon and dining areas, a comprehensive galley, and multiple heads, all designed for liveaboard comfort. The use of solid fiberglass for the hull and deck would provide a solid foundation for a well-insulated and quiet interior, and one can expect rich wood finishes, ample storage, and robust systems throughout, catering to the demands of serious offshore voyaging.