Lagoon 55 Information, Review, Specs

The Lagoon 55 began production in 2021, marking a new chapter for the builder while intentionally referencing their origins. While it shares a name with the inaugural Lagoon 55 from 1987, the 2021 model is a fresh design, showcasing the evolution of catamaran technology and Lagoon's design philosophy over more than three decades. The original Lagoon 55, born from Jeanneau Technologies Avancées (JTA), was a pioneering vessel built with advanced composite materials like epoxy, glass, carbon, and Kevlar, leveraging racing yacht construction techniques.

For the contemporary Lagoon 55, the design ethos, shaped by VPLP, Patrick le Quément, and Nauta Design, centers on maximizing the sense of space, connection to the sea, and ease of use. Lagoon's overarching philosophy, as a leading cruising catamaran builder, emphasizes creating vessels that offer "elegance, comfort, and reliability," with a strong focus on harmonious indoor and outdoor living areas. This is evident in the new 55's design, which features a central mast position and large, panoramic salons, reflecting the builder's commitment to spaciousness and seaworthiness. There are no notable "MkI vs. MkII" variations as it is a recent model, though different cabin layouts are available to suit owner preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While the Lagoon 55 is not engineered to break speed records, it delivers impressive performance for a vessel of its considerable volume and comfort. Designed for relaxed cruising rather than outright racing, its sailing characteristics are oriented towards stability, ease of management, and comfortable motion in a seaway. Reviews indicate the catamaran can achieve speeds of approximately 5.5 to 6.5 knots in around 10 knots of wind, particularly when augmented with sails like a Code 0.

A key design feature enhancing its handling is the central mast position and a self-tacking jib, which contribute to the boat's reputation for easy handling, even with a small crew. The inclusion of a flybridge as a standard feature provides an elevated helm station, offering excellent visibility and simplifying command during navigation. The design ensures the Lagoon 55 is a comfortable performer, prioritizing a smooth and stable ride for long trips and extended periods aboard. Its spacious deck layout and inherent stability also make it well-suited for families.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Lagoon 55 is a highlight, characterized by its generous spaces and an emphasis on natural light and connection to the marine environment. With a maximum headroom of 6.89 feet, the interior feels exceptionally open and airy. The design, executed by Nauta Design, focuses on creating high-quality spaces that combine elegance with comfort.

The saloon is particularly noteworthy, often described as skylight-lit, enhancing the feeling of spaciousness and providing ample natural light. The layout is optimized for social interaction, offering numerous convivial areas both indoors and out, including a distinctive new bow lounge. The boat is typically available in various cabin configurations, including owner's versions (e.g., 4 or 5 cabins), often with en-suite bathrooms for guest cabins. The owner's cabin, frequently located aft, is designed with a large bed, excellent sea views, and generous storage, reflecting the vessel's liveaboard aspirations. The seamless integration of interior and exterior spaces is a hallmark, inviting a fluid flow between the saloon, cockpit, and foredeck lounge areas.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Lagoon catamarans, including the Lagoon 55, frequently laud the brand for its commitment to comfort, volume, and safety, making these vessels highly appealing for long-distance cruising and liveaboard lifestyles, 24]. The Lagoon 55 is seen as a modern cruising cat that redefines volume, offering an experience akin to a "self-contained resort". While specific, recurring common problems for the new Lagoon 55 are not widely documented in general owner forums, the broader Lagoon community often praises the brand's robust construction and the comfortable motion of their boats in a seaway. The focus for owners typically centers on the expansive living areas, ease of handling, and suitability for family or charter use.