Dean 400 Information, Review, Specs

The Dean 400 emerged from the shipyards of Dean Catamarans in Atlantis, Cape Town, South Africa, with its production commencing in 1995. Peter Dean, a third-generation boatbuilder and naval architect, founded Dean Catamarans with a vision to create vessels optimized for private ownership and extended offshore cruising, prioritizing safety and comfort. This philosophy is evident in the Dean 400, which reflects the builder's commitment to heavy, rugged construction, distinguishing their boats from lighter alternatives available in the market.

The design of the Dean 400 was a conscious evolution for the company, signaling a fresh approach with its "aero-dynamic hull shape and styling." This move aimed to integrate contemporary aesthetics with the established Dean principles of robust construction, quality joinery, and high-end equipment, intended to provide comfortable and safe platforms for long-distance passages.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a 40-foot catamaran, the Dean 400 is designed for capable cruising, distinguished by its "aerodynamic detailing" and hull shape. While performance ratios typically applied to monohulls do not directly translate or apply given the vessel's multihull configuration and the absence of certain key data points, its design emphasizes efficiency and comfortable motion. With a length overall of 40 feet and a waterline length of 39.33 feet, she is capable of a theoretical hull speed of 8.4 knots. The vessel features a minimum bridgedeck clearance of 800 mm, rising to 1.2 meters at the stern, a design element critical for minimizing wave-slamming in choppy seas. Additionally, the internal structure of each hull incorporates a "wave turnover flare," further contributing to a drier ride and enhanced comfort by reducing spray. Powering the Dean 400 when not under sail are twin Yanmar GM30F diesel engines, complemented by an ample fuel capacity of 80 gallons and a substantial water capacity of 160 gallons, supporting extended voyages.

Accommodations and Layout

The Dean 400 was designed with an emphasis on providing "unequaled accommodation" for a cruising catamaran of its size. While specific detailed textual descriptions of the interior layout are not widely available, Dean Catamarans consistently focused on creating roomy and well-laid-out interiors across their range. Their general design philosophy included semi-custom interiors characterized by quality joinery and high-end equipment, prioritizing comfort for extended voyages. Owners of Dean catamarans generally appreciate the sturdy construction and cruising comfort these vessels provide.