Leopard 42 / Moorings 4200 (2020) Information, Review, Specs

Built by the renowned South African shipyard Robertson & Caine, the Leopard 42 reflects the builder's commitment to producing high-quality, performance-oriented catamarans that prioritize functionality and comfort. Robertson & Caine, established in 1991, has a long history of boat-building expertise, evolving into one of the world's leading manufacturers of catamarans under their acclaimed Leopard brand. Their ethos, emphasizing "integration simplified" and rugged construction, is evident in the Leopard 42, making it a reliable choice for extended cruising and demanding charter environments.

History and Design

The Leopard 42 began its production in 2020, building upon almost 25 years of product evolution from Leopard Catamarans. The design is a collaborative effort between Robertson & Caine's in-house team, including Chief Designer Michael Robertson, and the naval architecture firm Simonis & Voogd. This partnership aimed to create a revolutionary design that would exceed expectations, offering a sense of space, comfort, and performance previously associated with significantly larger yachts.

The design of the Leopard 42 incorporates modern elements and features that evolved from extensive customer and charter feedback, a hallmark of Leopard Catamarans' development process. Notable new features introduced with this model include flush hatches, a raised helm station with adjacent upper deck seating, and a fridge conveniently located under the helm stairs. All line handling is centralized at the helm, enhancing ease of operation. The exterior boasts continuous hull side windows and a continuous hardtop, contributing to its sleek appearance, alongside Leopard Catamaran's signature upper lounge area. While specific "MkI vs. MkII" variations are not noted, the model is available in various interior layouts, including three- and four-cabin configurations, and offers options for both standard and square-top mainsails to cater to different sailing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a catamaran with a length overall of 41.57 feet and a wide beam of 23.1 feet, the Leopard 42 is designed to offer a stable and comfortable sailing experience. Her displacement of 27,485 pounds, combined with a hull speed of 8.56 knots, suggests a capable cruising platform. Built with fiberglass and carbon-reinforced hulls and decks, she is described as sturdy and seaworthy.

The Leopard 42 is generally lauded for its good sailing characteristics, balancing effective boat speed with a focus on ease of handling. Owners and reviewers often praise its intuitive handling and balanced motion in various sea states. The design integrates features like rudder winglets, which play a crucial role in enhancing the catamaran's performance and maneuverability. Her fractional sloop rig, combined with a generous reported total upwind sail area of 1217.4 sq ft, provides ample power for comfortable cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Leopard 42 reflects a modern design aesthetic, drawing styling cues from the award-winning Leopard 53 Powercat. The layout features sleek contrasts, subtle elegance, and indirect lighting to create a refined and inviting atmosphere.

The boat is available in both three- and four-cabin configurations, providing flexibility for different cruising needs, including a popular owner's version with a dedicated hull. While specific maximum headroom details are not provided in the primary data, the interior is designed for comfort and utility, maximizing living space. Common arrangements typically include well-appointed V-berths or island berths, a head with shower, a spacious salon, a functional galley, and quarter berths, depending on the chosen layout. The aft cockpit and exterior deck spaces are particularly spacious, offering comfortable seating and lounging areas, including a popular single lounge seat to starboard. A forward-facing navigation station is also a key feature. The emphasis on modern design elements and quality finishes contributes to a pleasant living environment, while flush hatches ensure an uncluttered deck.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Leopard 42 consistently express high satisfaction, often noting that the design has benefited significantly from years of customer and charter feedback. They frequently commend the boat for its ability to pack a substantial amount of comfort and utility into its size, making it a highly livable cruising platform. The robust construction, a hallmark of Robertson & Caine, contributes to a strong sense of reliability, particularly appreciated by those embarking on extended voyages or operating in charter fleets. The widespread use of Leopard catamarans in charter operations also fosters a supportive owner community, benefiting from the proven durability and performance of these vessels.