Saona 47 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Saona 47 entered production in 2016 and remained a contemporary offering until 2020, becoming a key model in Fountaine Pajot's expanding range. The design of the Saona 47 was a collaborative effort, with the naval architecture overseen by Berret-Racoupeau, and the interior design attributed to Raccoupeau Design. This partnership aimed to create a catamaran that not only offered impressive volume but also maintained a sleek, modern aesthetic and satisfying sailing characteristics. During this era, Fountaine Pajot continued to uphold its core design philosophy, which prioritizes a harmonious balance between performance, comfort, and spaciousness, a hallmark of their vessels designed for extended cruising and liveaboard lifestyles. The builder's commitment to maximizing interior volume and light, as seen in many of their models, is evident in the Saona 47.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Fountaine Pajot Saona 47 is recognized for its commendable sailing performance, a trait that belies its substantial comfort-oriented design. Reviewers and owners consistently note that the Saona 47 performs very well under sail and also efficiently under power, making it a versatile platform for various cruising styles. The design incorporates features such as a fractional sloop rig and a hull form with flare at the chines, which contribute to its performance capabilities. Its handling is generally described as straightforward, allowing for comfortable short-handed sailing. The main boom is reported to be accessible, and the solent sail is easy to manage, enhancing its user-friendliness for cruising couples or families.

Accommodations and Layout

The Saona 47 excels in its accommodations, providing ample indoor and outdoor living spaces that are characteristic of Fountaine Pajot's design philosophy. The model was available in various configurations, most notably the "Maestro" version and the "Quintet" version. The Maestro version dedicates the entire port hull to a luxurious owner's suite, featuring a spacious double bed, a vanity, and extensive stowage, complemented by two additional double cabins and two bathrooms in the starboard hull. This layout provides exceptional privacy and comfort for the owner. Alternatively, the Quintet version offers five double cabins, each with its own bathroom, making it a highly popular choice for charter operations or larger groups. The cabins are frequently praised for their generous size, with the owner's suite often described as remarkably large for a boat under 50 feet. The overall interior boasts a sleek, modern design, utilizing the ample beam of 25.3 feet to create open and inviting areas.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Fountaine Pajot Saona 47 generally express high satisfaction with their vessels, frequently commending its robust construction and the comfortable motion it provides in various sea states. The spaciousness, particularly within the cabins, is a recurring point of praise, contributing significantly to the liveability and cruising comfort of the catamaran. While specific issues are not broadly detailed in readily available reviews, owners have generally indicated that any problems encountered are typically easy to resolve, suggesting a well-built and manageable vessel for ongoing maintenance. The Saona 47 is often highlighted for its balanced performance, whether under sail or power, making it a reliable choice for extended voyages.