Outremer 49 Information, Review, Specs

Serving as a bridge between earlier models and the immensely popular Outremer 51 which succeeded it, the 49 is celebrated for its ability to deliver genuine blue water capabilities, making it a valuable resource for potential buyers, current owners, and sailing enthusiasts seeking a robust and responsive multihull for extended voyages and circumnavigations.

History and Design

The Outremer 49 was produced from 2010 to 2012, building upon the foundational principles established by Outremer's visionary founder, Gérard Danson. Outremer has consistently focused on creating performance-oriented cruising catamarans for serious ocean voyaging, emphasizing safety, reliability, and sailing pleasure. The collaboration with Barreau/Neuman, who designed the Outremer 49, was a pivotal step in shaping the distinctive characteristics of the brand's yachts. The design of the 49 was so impactful that it "really set the Outremer philosophy for later boats," proving to be a great design.

Following a period of challenges linked to the passing of founder Gérard Danson, the introduction of the Outremer 49 marked a significant revival for the brand, reinforcing its position in the performance catamaran market. The Outremer 49 was eventually replaced by the Outremer 51 in 2013, which is essentially an extended version of the 49, further solidifying the proven design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Outremer 49 is lauded for its impressive sailing performance, designed to "leave most competitors in their wake" without emulating the extreme performance of racing multihulls. With a length overall of 49.16 feet and a waterline length of 48.92 feet, coupled with a generous beam of 24.44 feet, the 49 leverages its dimensions for both stability and speed. Its fiberglass PVC foam core hull contributes to a displacement of 22,000 pounds, allowing for a theoretical hull speed of 9.37 knots.

Equipped with a fractional sloop rig, the Outremer 49 boasts a calculated total sail area of 1186.55 square feet, providing ample power for spirited sailing. Reviews highlight its ability to achieve impressive speeds, with one report noting 9 knots of speed in just 11 knots of wind. The design incorporates daggerboards, which contribute significantly to its upwind performance and control, a hallmark of performance catamarans like the Outremer. Owners and reviewers often describe the Outremer 49 as exceptionally well-balanced and easy to maneuver, even for short-handed or solo sailing, making it a capable vessel for extensive cruising. While generally praised, some earlier models may have experienced hobbyhorsing and occasional slamming in certain sea states, a characteristic sometimes associated with lighter performance catamarans.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not provided in the primary data, the Outremer 49 is known for its spacious and practical interior, a significant advantage for a cruising catamaran. The design incorporates smart and innovative deck and interior layouts. A common configuration is the owner's version, which typically dedicates one hull to a luxurious private suite. This owner's hull often includes a queen-sized berth, a private desk, and an en-suite bathroom. The opposite hull generally features two additional cabins, typically with two queen beds in the aft sections and two double berths forward, providing ample accommodation for guests or family.

The interior finish generally reflects a quality build, with consideration for both aesthetics and functionality suitable for long-term living aboard. Storage is typically generous, a crucial aspect for blue water cruising. The design prioritizes ventilation, contributing to a comfortable living environment in various climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Outremer 49 consistently praise its robust construction and its strong performance credentials, particularly its speed and ease of handling in open water. The boat is often highlighted for its blue water capability, proving itself on ocean crossings. Owners appreciate the responsive steering and the feeling of direct control, characteristics often attributed to the daggerboard design. The ability to sail short-handed is also a frequently mentioned strength, making it appealing to couples or single-handed sailors embarking on ambitious voyages.

While overall satisfaction is high, common discussions among owners may revolve around the maintenance of systems typical of any cruising vessel of its age. As with any complex boat, specific components may require attention over time. However, the overarching sentiment is that the Outremer 49 lives up to its reputation as a serious, reliable, and enjoyable performance cruising catamaran.