Nautitech 40 Information, Review, Specs

The Nautitech 40 began its production in 2003, following Nautitech Catamarans' establishment in 1994 by Bruno Voisard. The shipyard, initially in partnership with the Dufour Yachts Group, focused on creating catamarans with robust construction and excellent sailing characteristics. The original Nautitech 40 was launched between 2004 and 2006, marking a significant step for the company which relocated its production to La Rochelle during this period.

Unlike some contemporaries that prioritized sheer volume, the design by Mortain & Mavrikios for the Nautitech 40 featured relatively slim hulls, a key characteristic that contributed to its "powerful and light catamaran" designation. This design choice reflects a commitment to sailing performance, a hallmark of Nautitech's ethos. The builder's commitment to blending exhilarating performance with onboard comfort and social living was evident even in these earlier models.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With an overall length of just under 40 feet (39.67 ft) and a beam of 21.25 feet, the Nautitech 40 is a substantial yet agile multihull. Its reported sail area of 936 square feet on a fractional sloop rig, combined with a displacement of 16,314 pounds, suggests a design focused on efficient sailing. The Mortain & Mavrikios design, characterized by its "rather slim" hulls, indicates an emphasis on hydrodynamics and speed over ultimate interior volume.

Equipped with twin 58 HP Volvo Penta diesel engines, the Nautitech 40 offers reliable auxiliary power and maneuverability. While specific anecdotal handling descriptions for the original model are limited in public documentation, the general design philosophy of Nautitech, even in its early years, pointed towards creating catamarans that are well-suited for a variety of sailing situations, offering a balance of performance and stability.

Accommodations and Layout

The Nautitech 40, like many catamarans of its size and era, was designed to maximize living space and comfort. While detailed interior layouts for the original model are not extensively documented compared to its later "Open" iterations, catamarans of this size typically feature multiple cabins, a main salon, galley, and heads distributed across its two hulls. The hull material of solid fiberglass and deck material of solid fiberglass ensure a robust and durable structure. With a water capacity of 159 gallons and fuel capacity of 72 gallons, the boat is equipped for extended cruising.

Common configurations for a 40-foot cruising catamaran would include a master cabin, often occupying an entire hull in an owner's version, and additional guest cabins. The design would likely have prioritized natural light and ventilation, crucial for comfortable living at sea, and offered ample storage for provisions and personal gear.