Outremer 55 Information, Review, Specs

The Outremer 55 was introduced in 2008, with its production run concluding in 2010. This model emerged from Outremer's consistent commitment to designing and manufacturing catamarans that are seaworthy, comfortable, and fast. The design of the Outremer 55 was a collaborative effort, notably involving VPLP Design, Patrick Le Quément, and Darnet Design. VPLP's design goal for the Outremer 55 was primarily "adaptability to the user," aiming to create a yacht that was easy to handle yet retained the spirited feel of an "ocean thoroughbred." Outremer, under the Grand Large Yachting group since 2003, continued to uphold its foundational principles of building performance cruising catamarans for serious ocean voyaging during this period. The company emphasized robust and resilient construction, capable of performing on all seas. There is no indication of significant variations or "MkI" versus "MkII" versions during its initial production run, with the later "new Outremer 55" announced in 2020 representing a subsequent generation of their performance cruising multihulls, designed with improved ergonomics and fluid circulation.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Outremer 55 is engineered for spirited sailing, a hallmark of the Outremer brand. With a reported sail area of 1517.71 square feet and a displacement of 18,739 pounds, she boasts a generous sail-to-displacement ratio for a cruising catamaran, suggesting strong performance, particularly in lighter wind conditions. Her wide beam of 25.59 feet, inherent to her catamaran design, provides exceptional initial stability, allowing her to stand up to significant wind pressures and offer a comfortable motion even in choppy seas.

A key feature contributing to her performance and versatility are her daggerboards, allowing for a variable draft from a shallow 2.62 feet for access to secluded anchorages, to a deeper 7.87 feet for enhanced upwind performance and reduced leeway when sailing offshore. Owners and reviewers consistently praise the Outremer 55 for being brilliant, ultra-fast, and easy to handle. Despite her size, the helm provides direct feedback, reinforcing her identity as a true ocean-going vessel. She is known to sail efficiently with just the mainsail, reaching impressive speeds, and demonstrates excellent performance sailing windward, confirming her design as a genuine sailing catamaran rather than a power catamaran with sails. The carbon rotating mast and composite rigging contribute to her light construction and ability to handle challenging conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not provided in the primary data, the Outremer 55 is known for offering large living spaces with a strong emphasis on light, ventilation, and ergonomic circulation onboard. The interior design, by Darnet Design, aimed for comfort and functionality, making it ideal for long-term cruising. The main salon typically features a spacious seating area and a well-appointed galley, benefiting from large windows that provide panoramic views and ample natural light.

Below deck, the hulls are generally configured to offer comfortable private cabins. Common arrangements include longitudinal berths measuring 200cm x 150cm (approximately 6.5 x 5.9 ft) with high-density mattresses, ample wardrobe storage, and opening deck hatches for ventilation. Large fixed outboard hull portlights further enhance the interior's brightness. The finish quality often features a blend of marine-grade plywood with attractive wood veneers and durable fiberglass, reflecting Outremer's commitment to robust yet comfortable interiors suitable for extended offshore living. The transition from the cockpit to the salon is designed for level access via a large sliding glass door, enhancing the flow between indoor and outdoor living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Outremer 55 consistently highlight its strengths as a serious blue water cruising catamaran. Many praise its solid construction, seaworthiness, and the comfortable motion it provides in a seaway, attributes crucial for long passages. The ease of handling, even for short-handed crews, is frequently mentioned, contributing to a pleasurable sailing experience. Owners appreciate the yacht's ability to carry a substantial payload, making it well-suited for extended voyages without concerns about overloading. The strong community fostered by Outremer, often referred to as the "Outremer Family," is another significant positive, offering a supportive network for adventurers.

While overwhelmingly positive, some owners have noted specific areas for attention. For example, discussions in owner forums sometimes touch upon minor issues with original gennaker rigging or the need for careful management of onboard systems to ensure peak performance. However, these points are generally presented as manageable aspects of owning a high-performance cruising yacht rather than fundamental flaws, with the overall consensus affirming the Outremer 55 as a highly capable and desirable vessel for those seeking genuine blue water cruising capabilities.