Lagoon 47 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Lagoon 47 emerged from Lagoon Catamaran's origins as a high-tech, competition-focused division of Jeanneau. This unique genesis instilled in Lagoon a foundational commitment to innovation and engineering excellence, drawing on expertise gained from high-performance racing craft. The company's vision was to translate the benefits of multihull design—stability, speed, and expansive living spaces—into production cruising yachts. The Lagoon 47 was part of the brand's first generation of models, crafted using advanced composite materials, reflecting JTA's expertise in high-tech construction.

While the Lagoon 47 was a successful design, it saw an important evolution with the introduction of the Lagoon 470. This successor, also designed by Marc Van Peteghem and Vincent Lauriot-Prévost, aimed to enhance both performance and below-decks luxury, marking a significant transition and redesign from the original 47. Additionally, some "Custom" Lagoon 47s were built, featuring lighter fittings for long-distance programs, indicating a degree of customization available during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Lagoon 47 was designed as a capable cruiser, and reviews suggest it offers a good balance of manageability and performance for a boat of its size and type. It is characterized as a "fast boat" suitable for ocean voyages. Its design allows for a "turn of speed" that was noteworthy for its era. The subsequent Lagoon 470, an updated version, further improved upon the original's performance. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the design allows for good handling, even for intentional beaching, highlighting its robust build and practical considerations for cruising. With a generous beam of nearly 25 feet, the catamaran hull form inherently provides stability and reduced heeling compared to monohulls, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific original detailed layouts for the Lagoon 47 can vary and are often customized by owners, the general philosophy of Lagoon emphasizes maximizing living space and comfort. The transition to the Lagoon 470 revealed a typical charter layout option featuring a four-cabin version with a "galley down" configuration, suggesting similar arrangements might have been available or common on the original 47. A "Custom" Lagoon 47 was noted to feature 4 cabins and 3 heads, demonstrating flexibility in the interior arrangements. Lagoon's broader design philosophy focuses on creating harmony between interior and exterior spaces, ensuring panoramic salons, large cockpits, and ample deck areas. Owners can expect a focus on practical living spaces suitable for extended cruising, characteristic of Lagoon's reputation for volume and comfort.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Lagoon catamarans, including models from this era, often highlight the brand's commitment to comfort, volume, and safety, making them highly desirable for long-distance cruising and liveaboard lifestyles. The Lagoon 47 itself is noted for being manageable even without a full crew, appealing to both charterers and private owners seeking offshore capabilities.

However, some owners of Lagoon catamarans have noted recurring issues with bulkheads, which can be a common concern across various brands and models. Lagoon is generally reported to be proactive in offering support and solutions for such structural issues. Despite these potential maintenance considerations, the enduring appeal of the Lagoon 47 and its successors underscores their fundamental suitability for comfortable and extensive cruising.