Privilege 47 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Privilege 47 is deeply intertwined with the vision of its builder, Jeantot Marine, founded in 1985 by René Bernard and the acclaimed French single-handed sailor, Philippe Jeantot. Jeantot's extensive offshore experience, including two world championships and the founding of the Vendée Globe race, directly influenced the brand's core philosophy. His personal motivation was to create a cruising catamaran for his family, prioritizing comfort, strength, and security for extended voyages—a cornerstone that defines Privilege yachts to this day.

The Privilege 47 was produced from 1985 to 1987. It was heralded as a "symbol of innovative technology and elegance" at its inception, embodying the builder's commitment to quality over quantity. Following its successful, albeit brief, production run, the Privilege 47 was succeeded by the similar Privilege 48 in 1987. While specific variations like MkI or MkII are not widely noted for the 47, its design established the foundational characteristics that would define subsequent Privilege models.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Privilege 47 is recognized as a strong and seaworthy catamaran, designed for comfortable passage-making across oceans. With a length overall of 47.57 feet and a substantial beam of 26.41 feet, the vessel boasts inherent stability, a hallmark of Privilege catamarans. Its twin hull design, coupled with a cutter rig, contributes to "pretty decent sailing performance" and a balanced motion at sea.

Privilege catamarans are renowned for their robustness and the safety they provide, making them reliable even in demanding conditions. The design emphasizes a comfortable cruise, with its broad platform ensuring a stable and secure experience for those navigating diverse sea states. Equipped with two engines, the Privilege 47 offers reliable auxiliary propulsion and maneuverability, crucial for a vessel of its size and cruising aspirations.

Accommodations and Layout

The Privilege 47 is celebrated for its "huge amounts of living space," reflecting its design brief as a comfortable cruiser. The catamaran offers significant interior volume, with some descriptions suggesting a "roominess of 120 m2," highlighting its expansive living areas. While specific interior details can vary, charter listings indicate that some Privilege 47 models were configured with up to five cabins, showcasing its adaptability for accommodating multiple guests or a large family.

A common layout on Privilege yachts, and likely influencing the 47, emphasizes comfortable cruising. Information on a Privilege 47, sometimes referred to as "Atlantis 47," describes features such as "two double cabins with separate" facilities and an "interior living room convertible into bed," suggesting flexible sleeping arrangements and a spacious salon. The brand's focus on quality means interiors typically feature robust construction and thoughtful use of materials, creating a comfortable environment for extended periods aboard. Amenities like air conditioning further enhance the liveaboard comfort.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Privilege catamarans, including models from the early era like the 47, frequently praise the brand's commitment to building "solid, safe long distance cruisers". The emphasis on quality craftsmanship and robust construction from the Jeantot Marine era has ensured that these vessels are valued for their durability and offshore capabilities. The spaciousness and stability offered by the Privilege 47 are consistently highlighted as key strengths, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a comfortable and secure platform for extended voyages and living aboard. The design philosophy, rooted in the practical experience of offshore sailing, resonates with owners who prioritize seaworthiness and a reliable, comfortable motion in various conditions.