Privilege 482 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Privilege 482 was introduced in 1992, succeeding the Privilege 48, and remained in production until 1996. During this era, Privilege Catamarans (then Jeantot Marine) was heavily influenced by its founder, the celebrated French single-handed sailor Philippe Jeantot. His personal motivation for building catamarans stemmed from a desire for a comfortable, strong, and secure platform for his own family's travels, a vision that became a cornerstone of the Privilege brand's design philosophy. This ethos of robust construction and a focus on security and comfort for extended voyages is evident in the Privilege 482. While specific design variations like MkI or MkII versions are not widely noted for the 482, its production run saw the consistent application of Privilege's commitment to quality fiberglass solid hull and deck construction, built to withstand offshore conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a cruising catamaran, the Privilege 482 emphasizes comfort and stability over outright racing performance. With a reported sail area of 1,648 square feet and a fractional sloop rig, she is designed to be easily managed for her size. [1, Her impressive beam of 26.41 feet contributes significantly to her inherent stability, a hallmark of catamaran design that provides a comfortable platform, even in a seaway. Owners and reviewers often note that these catamarans are capable of sailing "quite well when sailed properly," particularly on well-planned passages. With a hull speed calculated at 9.14 knots, the Privilege 482 offers respectable passage-making potential, capable of covering significant distances efficiently due to her twin keels and dual rudders, which offer good control. [1,

Accommodations and Layout

The Privilege 482 is well-regarded for its exceptional interior volume and comfortable accommodations, a key draw for both charter operations and private owners seeking extensive living space. Typical layouts often feature multiple cabins, with configurations supporting up to 16 people for charter purposes, suggesting a generous number of private sleeping quarters, often up to five cabins. The interior is often characterized by a luxurious finish, with materials such as cherry wood frequently noted, contributing to a refined aesthetic. The emphasis is on plentiful lounging areas and comfortable cabins, providing ample space for guests or a large family. The design prioritizes comfort, allowing for an enjoyable living experience whether at anchor or underway.

Owner's Perspectives

On the secondhand market, the Privilege 482 is often recognized for offering considerable space and accommodations at a relatively accessible price point. Owners generally praise the overall quality and durability of these vessels, consistent with Privilege's reputation for robust construction. While purchasing any used vessel may involve some degree of maintenance or upgrades, the Privilege 482 is seen by some as a good foundation for those willing to undertake a "fixer-upper" project to customize it to their preferences. The strong construction and comfortable motion in a seaway are frequently highlighted as significant strengths, making it a favored choice for those seeking a reliable and spacious platform for extended cruising.