HH 55 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The HH 55's inception is deeply rooted in the strategic partnership formed in 2012 between the Hudson Yacht Group and the esteemed naval architects Morrelli & Melvin. This collaboration was pivotal, laying the groundwork for HH Catamarans to specialize in high-end, performance-oriented multihulls. The HH 55, introduced in 2018, emerged as a direct result of this synergy, designed by Morrelli & Melvin with a clear mandate for high performance, utilizing an all-carbon fiber build, deep daggerboards, and a substantial rig. The Hudson Yacht Group, under the leadership of founder Hudson Wang and CEO Paul Hakes (a veteran of America's Cup yacht building), operates a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Xiamen, China, where they uphold stringent quality control and implement advanced construction techniques. This manufacturing ethos, characterized by a dedication to lightweight, stiff, and strong vessels using advanced composites, particularly carbon fiber and PVC foam core, is evident in every aspect of the HH 55's construction. There were semi-custom options available, allowing owners to customize the interior layout and finishes, which enabled a degree of personalization beyond standard production models.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The HH 55 is engineered for speed and offshore capability, designed to be a "truly dual-purpose yacht" that blends exhilarating performance with comfortable world cruising. Its all-carbon fiber construction results in a lightweight yet incredibly stiff platform, a critical factor for multihull performance. With a reported sail area of 2,063 square feet and a displacement of 31,305 pounds, the HH 55 boasts an impressive power-to-weight ratio, allowing it to excel in a variety of wind conditions.

A key feature contributing to its performance is the inclusion of daggerboards, which allow the minimum draft to be reduced to 4.27 feet for shallow anchorages, while extending down to 10.83 feet for enhanced upwind performance and reduced leeway when sailing. This versatility is a hallmark of performance catamarans in its class. Reviewers consistently describe the HH 55 as having more in common with America's Cup foiling cats than typical charter cruising yachts, highlighting its responsiveness and ability to sail at impressive speeds. Its fractional sloop rig and twin rudders contribute to precise handling and control, making it a joy to sail across different sea states. The design prioritizes sailing efficiency and a balanced helm, ensuring that despite its luxury, its primary purpose as a high-performance vessel is never compromised.

Accommodations and Layout

While the HH 55 is a performance-oriented catamaran, it does not compromise on luxury or liveability. The interior of the HH 55 is known for its spacious saloon and offers significant room for customization, with options for both three- or four-cabin layouts. Owners can personalize elements such as interior flooring, laminates, real woods, counters, and fixtures, as well as alter the interior configuration to suit their needs.

The general arrangement typically includes well-appointed cabins, a large salon, and a functional galley, all finished with high-quality materials, often featuring beautiful real wood interiors. The design balances a sleek, modern aesthetic with practical considerations for long-term cruising comfort. Features like dual helm options (forward or aft) provide flexibility in steering positions, catering to different sailing preferences and weather conditions. Generous windows and hatches typically ensure ample natural light and ventilation throughout the living spaces, contributing to an open and airy feel that is crucial for extended periods aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and reviewers consistently praise the HH 55 for its exceptional build quality and the remarkable blend of performance and luxury it offers. Many highlight its solid carbon construction as a significant advantage, providing both strength and the lightweight characteristics necessary for high speeds. The ability of the HH 55 to deliver exhilarating sailing performance while maintaining a high level of comfort for long-distance cruising is a recurring theme in positive feedback. Owners appreciate the semi-custom options that allow for personalization of the interior, making each HH 55 uniquely tailored to individual preferences. Its efficiency and handling capabilities are often compared favorably to much smaller, pure racing multihulls, yet it provides the amenities expected of a luxury cruiser. While specific common problems are not widely documented, the emphasis on high-quality components and construction aims to minimize typical maintenance issues associated with complex performance yachts.