Lagoon 470 Information, Review, Specs

Designed by the renowned French naval architecture firm Van Peteghem Lauriot-Prévost (VPLP Design) and built by Lagoon, a specialized arm of Jeanneau Technologies Avancées, the Lagoon 470 carries the DNA of a builder committed to innovation and engineering excellence. Lagoon, later integrated into the Beneteau Group, has consistently focused on translating the inherent benefits of multihull design—stability, speed, and expansive living spaces—into production cruising yachts.

The Lagoon 470 entered production in 1998 and continued its successful run until 2005, with 51 units built. Its creation was a direct evolution from the Lagoon 47, with designers Marc Van Peteghem and Vincent Lauriot-Prévost meticulously addressing the strengths and weaknesses of the predecessor to craft a more refined and multifaceted vessel. This period saw Lagoon, under the umbrella of the Beneteau Group, solidifying its reputation for producing catamarans that prioritize comfort, volume, and safety, making them highly suitable for long-distance cruising and liveaboard lifestyles.

The design philosophy behind the 470 aimed to offer enhanced performance and luxurious accommodations, distinguishing it from the earlier 47. It was conceived not just as a capable cruiser but also with the yacht charter market in mind, balancing practical layouts with sailing prowess. As part of Lagoon's "second generation" of catamarans, which also included models like the 410 and 380, the 470 further emphasized spaciousness and comfort, reflecting a continuous desire to enhance the pleasure of both piloting and leisure. The build quality, particularly the hull/deck joint, was noted for being well-engineered and capably executed, a testament to Lagoon's construction ethos.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Lagoon 470, with its length overall of 47.57 feet and a generous beam of 25.92 feet, is designed to deliver a stable and comfortable sailing experience typical of a modern cruising catamaran. Its twin-keel hull type and fractional sloop rig contribute to a robust sailing profile. Compared to its predecessor, the 470 was specifically engineered to offer improved performance, featuring slim hulls, a tall rig, high bridgedeck clearance, and a long waterline, all contributing to better speed and motion in a seaway.

With a reported sail area of 1183 square feet and a displacement of 20,569 pounds, the 470 is capable of achieving a hull speed of approximately 8.98 knots, indicative of its cruising capabilities. Owners frequently praise the Lagoon 470 for its ease of handling, noting that it can be managed effectively by a small crew, or even single-handed, making it an ideal cruising boat for families or couples. Its inherent stability as a catamaran provides a level sailing platform, reducing heel and enhancing comfort both underway and at anchor.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Lagoon 470 is a hallmark of its design, emphasizing extensive living space and comfort for extended periods aboard. While specific headroom figures are not always readily available, the design maximizes internal volume, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. The saloon, often described as roomy, typically integrates a spacious galley, strategically placed to port, allowing for easy interaction with guests in the main living area and cockpit.

The Lagoon 470 was available with various layout options to cater to different owner needs. A popular charter configuration provided ample accommodation, often featuring four to six cabins, with some setups accommodating up to 10 guests across six cabins. For private owners, the "owner's version" of the 470 offered a particularly luxurious arrangement, dedicating an entire hull to the owner's use. This expansive owner's suite often included significant storage capacity and a large private head, essentially functioning as a "veritable apartment" afloat. Throughout the boat, the finish quality and use of materials, often incorporating durable fiberglass and tasteful wood trim, reflect Lagoon's commitment to creating a comfortable and well-appointed marine environment. Abundant storage is a commonly lauded feature, with some owners considering it "easily the best appointed catamaran design... when it comes to storage".

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Lagoon 470 consistently express high satisfaction with its robust construction, comfort, and remarkable spaciousness, making it a highly regarded vessel for blue water cruising. Many laud its solid build quality and the comfortable motion it provides in various sea states, a key factor for long-distance voyages. The ease of handling, even for a limited crew, is a recurring positive, contributing to its reputation as an accessible and enjoyable cruising platform. The excellent storage capacity found throughout the catamaran is frequently highlighted as a significant advantage, setting it apart from many other designs in its class. Overall, the Lagoon 470 is often celebrated as an ideal boat for families or couples seeking a reliable, comfortable, and capacious cruiser.