Privilege 615 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Privilege 615 commenced in 2006, continuing Privilege's legacy of crafting high-quality cruising catamarans. The design is credited to Marc Lombard, a naval architect who has contributed to the evolution of Privilege principles. Privilege's design philosophy, inherited from its founder Philippe Jeantot, consistently prioritizes comfort, strength, and security, creating yachts capable of living aboard during extended travels. During this era, Privilege catamarans were produced by Alliaura Marine, maintaining their reputation for quality and seaworthiness before the brand's subsequent acquisitions. The 615 was conceived as a high-end, semi-custom model, with a small production run, appealing to those who sought a personalized luxury cruising experience. The Privilege 615 was later superseded by the Privilege Series 6, which aimed to revolutionize multihull design and performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a reported sail area of 2050 square feet and a displacement of 58,000 pounds, the Privilege 615 is engineered for comfortable and powerful bluewater cruising rather than extreme racing performance. Its sail area to displacement ratio, while not as high as dedicated light-air racers, indicates a capable performer that can manage varying wind conditions efficiently for a vessel of its size. As a catamaran, the 615 relies on its twin hulls for exceptional form stability, providing a stiff and level platform at sea without the need for traditional ballast found in monohulls.

The displacement-to-length ratio, reflecting its substantial volume over its 56.92-foot waterline, underscores its design as a comfortable and stable long-distance cruiser. Owners and reviewers often praise the Privilege 615 for its comfortable motion in a seaway, even in challenging conditions, making it a suitable choice for avid sailors intending to circumnavigate. It offers good sailing performance while retaining the necessary comforts for extended voyages.

Accommodations and Layout

The Privilege 615 is renowned for its expansive and versatile interior, which often surprises those stepping aboard a catamaran of this size. The vessel is designed to maximize living space, reflecting the brand's commitment to luxurious life beyond coastal borders. Typical layouts often feature a large, open-concept saloon that benefits from ample light and ventilation.

A hallmark of Privilege design, often found on larger models like the 615, is the option for a spacious owner's suite located in the forward nacelle, which can benefit from the full beam of the yacht and offers exceptional privacy and comfort. With only four cabins, the extra space is often dedicated to this owner's suite. The finish quality typically involves high-end materials and craftsmanship, emphasizing luxury and durability suitable for extended periods at sea. Interior configurations are often adaptable, allowing for a degree of customization to suit individual owner preferences, which was a historical offering for Privilege's larger catamarans. The impressive volume and versatile interior layout of the 615 ensure comfortable cruising for owners and guests.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Privilege 615 consistently highlight its solid construction and suitability as a primary residence for long-distance cruising. The vessel is often chosen by experienced sailors with the ambition of circumnavigating in luxury. Reviews frequently commend the yacht's ability to maintain good sailing performance while providing every necessary comfort onboard. The robust build quality and thoughtful design contribute to a sense of security and reliability during extensive voyages. The quietness below deck, even on long downwind sails, is also a noted advantage. Owners appreciate the expansive interior volume and the quality of the finish, which contributes to a refined ownership experience. While specific recurring weaknesses are not broadly publicized, the general consensus points to the Privilege 615 as a highly capable and well-regarded bluewater cruising catamaran.