Lagoon 400 Information, Review, Specs

The Lagoon 400 entered production in 2009 and continued until 2012, standing as a significant model within Lagoon's "third generation" designs. During this period, Lagoon, operating under the umbrella of Groupe Beneteau, continued to build upon its foundational commitment to innovation and engineering excellence, inherited from its origins in Jeanneau Technologies Avancées. The overarching design philosophy for Lagoon catamarans, heavily influenced by VPLP Design, prioritizes comfort, voluminous interiors, and inherent safety. This ethos is evident in the Lagoon 400, which was specifically engineered to offer comfortable spaces and easy handling for relaxed sailing adventures. Later in its production run, an updated version, the Lagoon 400 S2, was introduced, further refining the balance between interior volume and sailing performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 39.27 feet and a substantial beam of 23.79 feet, the Lagoon 400 presents a wide, stable platform on the water. Powered by twin engines and boasting a reported sail area of 903 square feet, she achieves a theoretical hull speed of 8.21 knots. While Lagoon, in this generation, leaned towards comfort over outright performance, the 400 is still very much a capable sailboat, even in light winds.

Owners frequently commend the Lagoon 400 for its exceptional stability and balance, attributes inherent to its twin-hull design, which contribute to easy maneuverability. The boat's sail plan is well-suited for short-handed sailing, making it a forgiving vessel to manage, particularly with the mainsail. Under sail, the 400 performs effectively on a broad range of points of sail, typically sailing well from 50 to 140 degrees True Wind Angle. While she can sail close to the wind, typically up to 45 degrees apparent, bearing away a few degrees often yields better performance. In mid-strength breezes, the Lagoon 400 can cover significant distances efficiently. However, some owners have noted that in strong headwinds, such as 30 knots, boat speed can diminish significantly, leading some to desire more powerful engine options.

Accommodations and Layout

The Lagoon 400 is highly regarded for its "record people space" and generous, well-appointed interiors, which were a cornerstone of its design. The catamaran offers versatile cabin layouts, typically available in 3- or 4-cabin versions to suit different cruising needs. The popular 3-cabin "owner's version" dedicates the entirety of one hull (typically starboard) to a private and spacious owner's suite, complete with a double cabin and often an en-suite head. Charter versions commonly feature a 4-cabin layout, providing ample double berths for multiple guests.

A defining characteristic of the Lagoon 400's interior is its light-filled main saloon, which boasts large panoramic windows. These windows provide unobstructed 360-degree views, creating a bright and open atmosphere that seamlessly connects the interior with the surrounding marine environment. The design philosophy emphasizes a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces. Throughout the interior, halogen fixtures provide effective lighting. The Lagoon 400 S2 variant notably introduced convertible double beds in the forward cabins, allowing for greater flexibility in sleeping arrangements. Overall, the interior design of the Lagoon 400 is rooted in blending functionality with aesthetic appeal, offering a comfortable and practical living environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Lagoon 400 consistently praise its fundamental strengths as a cruising catamaran. Its comfortable interior volume and easy handling characteristics are frequently highlighted, making it a favorite for relaxed sailing adventures and extended periods aboard. Many appreciate its stability and balance, which contribute to a comfortable motion even in varied sea states, and its suitability for family cruising. The forgiving nature of its sail plan and its ease of maneuverability, even for short-handed crews, are also significant advantages often cited.

However, like any vessel, the Lagoon 400 has its common owner observations. While generally performing well, some owners have felt that its sailing performance prioritizes comfort over speed, particularly when trying to sail close-hauled. A recurring point of discussion among owners relates to engine power; in very strong headwinds, some have expressed a desire for more powerful engines to maintain better boat speed. Furthermore, discussions in owner forums occasionally touch upon potential bulkhead issues, though detailed specifics for the 400 beyond general forum mentions are less common in public reviews. Despite these points, the Lagoon 400 generally enjoys a positive reputation for its solid construction and its ability to deliver a spacious and stable cruising experience.