Privilege 740 Information, Review, Specs

As a flagship model from Privilege, a builder with roots in the vision of celebrated single-handed sailor Philippe Jeantot, the 740 upholds a legacy of prioritizing comfort, strength, and security for extended voyages. It is marketed as a sailing cruising multihull, intended for long-distance cruising with a focus on refined luxury and robust construction.

History and Design

The Privilege 740 commenced production in 2016, a period during which Privilege Marine was under the control of Gilles Wagner, prior to its acquisition by HanseYachts Group in May 2017. The design of the 740 is a collaboration between Marc Lombard, responsible for the yacht's naval architecture, and Franck Darnet Design, who crafted the interiors. This partnership aligns with Privilege's history of collaborating with talented naval architects to evolve its design principles, as seen with other contemporary models.

Marc Lombard's design philosophy for large catamarans typically emphasizes a balance between performance and comfort, aiming for efficient hull forms that ensure stability and good seakeeping abilities. The involvement of Franck Darnet Design underscores the yacht's focus on bespoke luxury, offering extensive customization possibilities for the interior. Privilege's manufacturing ethos, stemming from its founder Philippe Jeantot's personal quest for a robust and secure family cruising catamaran, is evident in the 740's construction, utilizing fiberglass and PVC foam core for both the hull and deck, ensuring a strong yet lightweight structure suitable for bluewater sailing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While traditional monohull performance ratios do not directly apply to catamarans of this scale, the Privilege 740's dimensions provide insight into its capabilities. With a formidable length overall of 81.46 feet and a waterline length of 73.49 feet, combined with a substantial beam of 35.76 feet, the 740 is engineered for impressive hull speed and stability. Its displacement of 97,003 lbs (approximately 44 metric tons) for a vessel of this length suggests a robust build, designed to handle oceanic conditions with grace.

The Privilege 740 is rigged as a fractional sloop, featuring a total reported sail area of 2,841.67 square feet, including a genoa of 1,120 sqft and a main sail of 1,720 sqft, with options for a staysail, gennaker, and asymmetric spinnaker. This extensive sail plan provides ample power for its size, suggesting good performance across a range of wind conditions, while the twin rudders contribute to precise control and maneuverability. The substantial mast height of 97.44 feet from the waterline allows for a generous sail area. Owners generally appreciate the substantial living space and decent sailing performance offered by Privilege catamarans. The yacht is designed to offer superb stability and comfort even in challenging conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Privilege 740 is a hallmark of bespoke luxury and expansive living. The design, handled by Franck Darnet Design, allows for significant customization, ensuring each vessel can be tailored to owner preferences. The yacht typically offers five cabins, each equipped with a private bathroom, making it suitable for multiple guests or a large family. A standout feature, consistent with Privilege's design philosophy, is the large owner's suite often located in the forward nacelle, which is described as the largest and most luxurious in its class.

Owners can specify a range of opulent amenities, from a whiskey bar and lounges in the saloon to a jacuzzi on the flybridge, highlighting the yacht's focus on high-end comfort and entertainment. The interior is characterized by modular living areas and a focus on luxurious materials and finishes, providing a sophisticated environment for extended cruising. While specific headroom figures are not provided, the general scale of the 740 and its status as a luxury catamaran indicate generous interior volume and ample standing room throughout the living spaces. The ample water capacity of 343 gallons and fuel capacity of 528 gallons further support its capability for long-range cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

While extensive owner reviews specifically for the Privilege 740 are less common due to its bespoke nature and smaller production numbers compared to smaller production yachts, the Privilege brand generally garners praise for its robust construction, comfortable motion in a seaway, and luxurious appointments. Owners of Privilege catamarans consistently note the high quality of craftsmanship and the thoughtful design that prioritizes seaworthiness and livability for long-distance voyages. These yachts are often chosen by individuals seeking a real "owner's yacht" that stands apart from more charter-focused catamarans. The ability to customize the interior is a significant advantage, allowing owners to create a truly personalized cruising platform.