Marquises 56 Information, Review, Specs

The Marquises 56 marks a notable point in Fountaine Pajot's history, representing one of their early collaborations with the Berret-Racoupeau design firm, which commenced in 1991 with this very model. During this era, Fountaine Pajot had already cemented its reputation as a pioneer in cruising catamarans, having transitioned from racing dinghies and monohulls to focus on multihulls in the 1980s. Their design philosophy emphasized balancing performance with spaciousness and comfort, leveraging their expertise in foam-core sandwich construction. The Marquises 56, drawing inspiration for its deck plan from earlier, larger Fountaine Pajot racing multihulls like "Charente Maritime I & II," was conceived to deliver speed under sail while providing ample interior volume. The construction primarily utilized fiberglass FRP foam sandwich, a method consistent with Fountaine Pajot's building practices for creating robust yet relatively light vessels. There are no widely reported significant variations such as MkI or MkII versions during its production run, though individual owners may have customized their vessels.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a large cruising catamaran, the Marquises 56 is designed to offer a comfortable and stable ride, characteristics inherent to multihull platforms. With a reported sail area of 1,725 square feet and a length overall of 56 feet, she is described as being "fast under its 160 m2 of sail" (approximately 1722 sqft). Her design, a collaboration between Fountaine Pajot and naval architect Jean Berret, aimed to achieve a balance between lively performance and the stability expected of a large cruising catamaran. The catamaran configuration provides excellent initial stability, reducing heel compared to monohulls, which translates to a more comfortable motion in a seaway. With a hull speed of approximately 9.69 knots, the Marquises 56 is capable of swift passages, benefiting from its long waterline of 52.25 feet and relatively narrow hull forms. Powered by twin diesel engines, typically rated at 96 HP each, she also offers robust performance under power, essential for maneuvering in harbors or making headway in light winds.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Fountaine Pajot Marquises 56 is highly adaptable, catering to both private ownership and charter operations, and is celebrated for its generous space and potential for luxurious comfort. While exact headroom figures are not consistently available, the expansive beam of 26.58 feet allows for considerable interior volume across its two hulls and bridgedeck. Common interior arrangements vary, but typically include configurations of 3 to 5 cabins and 2 to 5 bathrooms. An "owner's version" often features a dedicated hull with a larger master cabin and head, offering enhanced privacy and space. Other layouts include multiple guest cabins, sometimes accommodating up to 12 berths in total. The salon and galley are typically located on the bridgedeck, benefiting from panoramic views and abundant natural light. These areas are designed for comfortable living and entertaining, with ample seating for dining and relaxation, capable of accommodating a large group. The finish quality generally features robust, marine-grade materials, consistent with Fountaine Pajot's focus on durable construction and a comfortable liveaboard experience.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Fountaine Pajot Marquises 56 frequently highlight its robust construction, comfort, and suitability for long-distance cruising or charter work. Many vessels of this model are noted for being meticulously maintained and having undergone significant upgrades by their owners, a testament to their enduring appeal and the commitment of their custodians. The generous interior volume, flexible cabin layouts, and inherent stability of the catamaran platform are consistently praised, making it a popular choice for those seeking a spacious and stable cruising experience. While specific common weaknesses or recurring maintenance issues were not broadly detailed in generalized owner reviews, as with any large cruising vessel, regular maintenance and attention to systems are key to preserving its condition and performance.