Lagoon 42-2 Information, Review, Specs

As a product of Lagoon Catamaran, a specialized arm of Jeanneau Technologies Avancées (JTA) and later part of the Beneteau Group, the 42-2 benefits from a foundational commitment to innovation and engineering excellence. It upholds Lagoon's reputation for creating vessels that prioritize comfort, volume, and safety, making them ideal for long-distance cruising and liveaboard lifestyles.

The Lagoon 42-2 was introduced in 2016 and remained in production until 2025, succeeding the Lagoon 420-421 and eventually being replaced by the Lagoon 43. During its production run, Lagoon offered a special "Millennium" edition of the 42, which was exclusively a four-cabin version, ready to sail with a single, comprehensive configuration.

The design philosophy behind the Lagoon 42-2, shaped by VPLP Design and Nauta Design, centers on achieving an equilibrium for ocean cruising by maximizing usable space and ensuring a harmonious flow between interior and exterior areas. VPLP, known for its expertise in sailing craft, aims to combine the inherent stability and comfort of a cruising catamaran with an engaging sailing experience. Nauta Design's contribution is evident in the boat's sleek, modern exterior lines and its bright, spacious interior, where molded wood elements highlight fine shapes, emphasizing elegance and attractive volumes. This collaboration reflects Lagoon's broader ethos of delivering sophisticated design and robust build quality.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a cruising catamaran, the Lagoon 42-2 is celebrated for its stable and comfortable motion under sail, a hallmark of multihull design. With a hull speed of 8.58 knots and a fractional sloop rig, she is designed to be easily managed, even by a couple, making her an excellent choice for those sailing with limited or no crew [3, 26,. Owners and reviewers often note her ability to accelerate well in gusts and perform efficiently on a beam or broad reach, indicative of VPLP's success in optimizing her sailing characteristics despite her displacement. Her twin engines, each with 90 horsepower, provide ample power for maneuvering and motoring when sails are not in use.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Lagoon 42-2 is a key highlight, characterized by a spacious, open, and airy feel, seamlessly integrating with the exterior lines of the catamaran. Nauta Design's influence is apparent in the luxurious finish, which often features molded wood elements and the option for personalization through various fabric and leather choices.

Typical layouts often include a four-cabin configuration, as seen in the Millennium Edition. Additionally, an owner's version is popular, dedicating the entire starboard hull to the owner's suite. This layout typically includes a spacious island berth aft and numerous windows that provide ample natural light and excellent visibility. The design maximizes living space, both indoors and out, with features like panoramic salons and large cockpits, ensuring comfort for extended cruising and liveaboard lifestyles. While specific maximum headroom is not universally cited, the overall design prioritizes generous interior volumes, contributing to a comfortable living environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Lagoon 42-2 for its ease of handling, particularly for couples or those with limited crew experience, making it a very accessible cruising platform. The boat is frequently lauded for its solid construction and comfortable motion in various sea states, a testament to Lagoon's reputation for building seaworthy vessels. The strong and active community around Lagoon catamarans, including specific owner groups, further highlights the brand's enduring appeal and the camaraderie among its owners.

While generally well-received, some discussions among owners touch upon common maintenance considerations, such as the importance of proper ventilation, a factor that can be a general consideration for catamarans. Overall, the collective viewpoint of Lagoon 42-2 owners is largely positive, emphasizing its strengths as a reliable, comfortable, and capable cruising catamaran for a wide range of sailing aspirations.