Nautitech 395 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Nautitech 395 debuted in 1996, marking the launch of Nautitech's initial range of sailing catamarans, alongside the larger 435 and 475 models. Designed by Mortain & Mavrikios, the vessel was conceived with sleek lines, reflecting a design philosophy that aimed to deliver performance without compromising the inherent comfort and space benefits of a multihull platform. As part of the Dufour Yachts lineage, the Nautitech 395 inherited the builder's long-standing commitment to robust fiberglass construction. Dufour, a pioneer in fiberglass boatbuilding since the 1960s, typically employed solid fiberglass for hulls, ensuring durability and consistent quality. This construction ethos aligned well with the demands of a cruising catamaran designed for extended voyaging.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Nautitech 395's design characteristics translate into a capable sailing performance. With a reported sail area of 800 square feet and a displacement of 13,200 pounds, the catamaran boasts a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 23.05. This relatively high ratio for a multihull suggests good performance, particularly in lighter air conditions, allowing the boat to maintain speed efficiently. Her displacement to length ratio, calculated at a very low 116.2 (based on a 37-foot waterline), further underscores her light-displacement nature, which is characteristic of catamarans designed for agile performance rather than heavy load-carrying.

Unlike monohulls that rely on ballast for stability, the Nautitech 395, like all catamarans, derives its inherent stability from its wide 21-foot beam. This contributes to a comfortable and level sailing platform, reducing heel and providing a stable motion in a seaway. Owners and reviews frequently describe the Nautitech 395 as both "fast and comfortable," indicating a satisfying balance between speed and onboard living. The thoughtful design ensures that the vessel handles well, making it a suitable choice for cruising enthusiasts looking for an enjoyable sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Nautitech 395 is renowned for its spaciousness and well-conceived layout, designed to maximize comfort for extended cruising. Typical configurations include multiple double cabins, often with options for three or four double berths, complemented by additional sleeping arrangements such as forepeaks or convertible dinettes, allowing for up to ten berths in some layouts. The catamaran generally features two bathrooms, with some versions offering a dedicated shower room in the forepeak. The expansive beam of the multihull translates into generous living spaces within the hulls and a comfortable central salon, providing ample room for relaxation, dining, and storage, making it well-suited for long-term liveaboard or charter operations.

Owner's Perspectives

The Nautitech 395 has garnered a reputation as a very popular early model for the Nautitech brand, with many examples remaining active in the cruising and charter fleets. Owners frequently praise its comfortable nature and capable sailing performance, often describing it as both "fast and comfortable." While specific recurring issues are not prominently detailed in broad public forums, the longevity of these vessels in service suggests a generally robust construction. As with any boat of its vintage, routine maintenance and potential refits for cosmetics, rigging, varnish, or upholstery are common considerations for prospective owners, reflecting typical wear and tear over decades of use.