Lagoon 40 Information, Review, Specs

The Lagoon 40 emerged from the esteemed Lagoon Catamaran shipyard, a specialized division of Groupe Beneteau, which has been at the forefront of cruising multihull innovation since 1984. Introduced in 2017, the Lagoon 40 was envisioned to redefine expectations for a catamaran of its size, focusing on comfort, performance, and ease of handling. Patrick Le Quément's exterior design philosophy for the Lagoon 40 centered on reducing wind resistance and enhancing stability, ensuring smooth and efficient sailing even in demanding conditions, while also delivering a sleek and modern profile.

Concurrently, Nauta Design sculpted the interior, prioritizing natural light and creating an airy, relaxing atmosphere through the incorporation of large hull windows. This design ethos aligns perfectly with Lagoon's broader commitment to maximizing living space, both indoors and out, and fostering harmony between these areas—a hallmark of their design philosophy. A notable design feature is the mast, which is positioned further aft than on previous models. This configuration is intended to enhance sail handling, improve balance, and contribute to overall stability, making the vessel well-suited for short-handed sailing. The standard power package typically includes twin 29 HP Yanmar engines, with an optional upgrade to twin 45 HP engines for increased propulsion.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Lagoon 40 is engineered as a comfortable cruising catamaran, and its performance characteristics reflect this focus. With a reported sail area of 828.82 square feet and a displacement of 23,997 pounds, the calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio stands at approximately 15.9. For a cruising catamaran, this ratio suggests a balanced design that prioritizes ease of handling and comfort over extreme light-wind performance, though it is still capable of enjoyable sailing in various conditions.

Due to its multihull nature, the traditional Ballast to Displacement ratio is not applicable to the Lagoon 40, as its stability is derived primarily from its wide beam and hull form rather than internal ballast. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated based on its 37.96-foot waterline length, is relatively high. While this ratio is interpreted differently for catamarans compared to monohulls, for a multihull like the Lagoon 40, it indicates a focus on generous interior volume, payload capacity, and robust construction, aligning with its role as a comfortable blue water cruiser.

In terms of handling, the Lagoon 40 receives positive reviews for its "superior handling characteristics" and general agility. Owners and reviewers note its "excellent seaworthiness" and "excellent stability" in a seaway. The aft-positioned mast aids in sail handling, contributing to its suitability for a small crew. It is often described as "easy to sail with two people" and "fun to sail into the wind," offering a comfortable and smooth experience.

Accommodations and Layout

The Lagoon 40 is celebrated for its well-thought-out and exceptionally bright interior, a direct result of Nauta Design's focus on maximizing natural light through large hull windows. With a generous maximum headroom of 6.58 feet, the interior feels notably spacious.

Owners have considerable flexibility in choosing the layout, with options typically including a 3-cabin owner's version or a 4-cabin configuration. In the 3-cabin variant, the entire port hull is usually dedicated to a luxurious owner's suite, complete with a large master cabin and a private head. The 4-cabin layouts can further be configured with either two or four heads, offering versatility for charter operations or larger families.

The interior arrangement typically features a panoramic salon, designed for seamless integration with the large cockpit, enhancing the indoor-outdoor living experience. The galley is well-equipped with amenities, including a refrigerator/freezer and ample storage. The use of luxurious materials by Nauta Design enhances the overall finish quality, creating an atmosphere of modern elegance and functionality. Berths are generally aligned lengthways, which not only facilitates easier access but also creates additional space for storage compartments. Ventilation is provided primarily by forward hatches, though some owners have suggested that additional roof hatches could further enhance airflow.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Lagoon 40 consistently express high satisfaction with their vessels, frequently praising its overall design and comfort. Many describe their experience as loving their boat, noting its fantastic performance under sail and at anchor. The design is often highlighted for its ability to enable comfortable long-distance cruising and provide a stable platform for living aboard. Owners appreciate the ease of handling, even with a small crew, and the "excellent seaworthiness" that contributes to a comfortable motion in various sea states. While no widespread common problems are reported, the collective feedback underscores the Lagoon 40's reliability and its ability to serve as a capable and comfortable vessel for a range of sailing adventures.