Samana 59 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Samana 59 in 2020 saw Fountaine Pajot continue its tradition of collaborating with esteemed naval architects. The design of the Samana 59 was a joint effort with Berret Racoupeau, a firm that has contributed significantly to modern yacht design. The primary design goal for the Samana 59 was to redefine the luxury catamaran market by offering unprecedented living spaces, with a strong emphasis on entertaining and onboard hospitality. This ethos aligns perfectly with Fountaine Pajot's long-standing design philosophy of maximizing interior volume and light, as evidenced by their successful models throughout their history, including the Louisiane 37 and Casamance 43. The builder's expertise in foam-core sandwich construction, a technique they have refined since the early 1980s with vessels like the Royale trimaran and the Louisiane 37, underpins the Samana 59's robust yet lightweight fiberglass balsa core hull and deck. There is no information to suggest significant production variations like MkI or MkII versions during its production run, as it is a relatively recent model.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Fountaine Pajot Samana 59 is engineered to deliver a blend of comfortable cruising and respectable sailing performance, especially for a vessel of its considerable volume. With a reported total sail area of approximately 2195 square feet (comprising a 1255 sqft main and a 941 sqft genoa) and a displacement of 59,525 pounds, she is designed to harness the wind efficiently. Anecdotal reports from owners and reviewers often praise the Samana 59 for its ability to sail effectively, noting that it can achieve impressive boat speeds. Some accounts mention recording maximum speeds of 12.5 knots, highlighting its capability as a comfortable cruising catamaran that can actually sail well, even among larger production catamarans. The catamaran hull type, coupled with twin keels, contributes to its stability and reduced draft, allowing access to shallower anchorages. The Samana 59 is well-regarded for its comfortable motion in various sea states, a characteristic often sought after by world cruisers.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Samana 59 is a hallmark of its design, specifically crafted to offer expansive and versatile living spaces for luxury cruising and entertaining. While specific maximum headroom is not provided, the interior is consistently described as vast and airy, utilizing its generous dimensions to create multiple distinct areas. The saloon alone spans approximately 32 square meters (about 344 sqft), intelligently planned to incorporate diverse zones, often featuring two lounges and a navigation station.

Fountaine Pajot offers various interior hull layouts for the Samana 59, typically ranging from four to six cabins, providing flexibility for owners, whether for private use or charter operations. A popular configuration is the "Maestro version," which features a dedicated owner's suite with its own bathroom, alongside additional double cabins. The emphasis on hospitality is evident with options for two galleys, including a classic galley designed for social gatherings. Overall, the interior fit and finish are of high quality, with careful attention to material selection and craftsmanship, aiming for a luxurious and comfortable ambiance.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Fountaine Pajot Samana 59 consistently commend its solid construction and the luxurious, spacious environment it provides. Many praise its comfortable motion offshore, making it a suitable choice for extended voyages and even round-the-world cruises. The ample living areas, including the spacious cabins, airy saloon, and well-designed galley, are frequently highlighted as significant strengths, making it an ideal platform for entertaining guests. Some owners particularly appreciate its sailing performance for a production catamaran of its size, noting its ability to achieve good speeds and maintain balance without excessive creaking, a common concern on larger vessels. The significant fuel and water capacities further support its long-range cruising capabilities. While specific recurring weaknesses are not broadly reported, owners often emphasize the importance of understanding the complexities of managing a yacht of this size and its systems.