Moorings 3900 Information, Review, Specs

Built by Robertson & Caine, a shipyard synonymous with durable and performance-oriented catamarans from its base in Cape Town, the Moorings 3900 benefits from the builder's long-standing expertise in multihull construction. The design of the Moorings 3900 was specifically entrusted to the American naval architect bureau, Morrelli & Melvin, known for their work in optimizing both luxury and sailing dynamics in multihulls.

History and Design

The genesis of the Moorings 3900 lies in a strategic evolution of Robertson & Caine's successful catamaran lines, specifically sharing its hull and deck molds with the popular Leopard 38 and serving as the charter version of the Leopard 39. This shared heritage underscores a design philosophy centered on maximizing interior volume while maintaining respectable sailing characteristics. Production commenced in 2010, marking a significant investment by The Moorings to expand its fleet with over 140 new yachts for the upcoming charter seasons. The production run continued until 2014.

Morrelli & Melvin's design brief for the Moorings 3900 focused on balancing luxury with performance, incorporating a raised helm station and the integration of solar panels on the hardtop to charge onboard batteries, reflecting a move towards environmental considerations in yacht design. The design also sought to provide an abundance of outdoor space, which is characteristic of modern cruising catamarans. While the foundational molds were shared with the Leopard 38, the Moorings 3900 notably featured upgrades such as a continuous hardtop over the cockpit and the aforementioned raised helm station, distinguishing it as a more refined charter model.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Moorings 3900, with its catamaran hull form, inherently offers a high degree of stability derived from its wide beam of nearly 20 feet, rather than relying on heavy ballast as monohulls do. This design characteristic translates into a stiff and comfortable ride, minimizing heel under sail and contributing to a more pleasant experience on the water.

Its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 21.69 indicates a boat with good light-air performance, suggesting it can ghost along effectively even in lighter breezes. This ratio is typically found in vessels designed to be relatively quick for their size, capable of covering distances efficiently. The displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) of around 189.35 further classifies the Moorings 3900 as a relatively light to moderate displacement boat for its length, consistent with a performance-oriented cruiser. This combination of factors contributes to what is often described as "excellent stability and handling," making for a pleasurable sailing experience. Anecdotal reports suggest the Leopard 39, which shares the same underbody, is capable of making impressive speeds, such as 7.7 knots in 10 knots of wind and up to 9.7 knots in 14 knots of wind on a beam reach. The overall consensus points to the Moorings 3900 (and its Leopard siblings) as sailing "better than some of her other production catamaran competitors," combining robust performance with straightforward handling.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed with charter comfort in mind, the Moorings 3900 features a typical interior arrangement that prioritizes spaciousness and liveability. The most common configuration is a three-cabin, two-head layout, which offers ample privacy and convenience for families or multiple couples. A key feature is the "galley-up" design, situating the galley within the main saloon area, which fosters a more social environment and offers panoramic views while cooking or dining. Air-conditioning is often present throughout the saloon and cabins, enhancing comfort in warmer climates.

The interior finish typically utilizes materials such as cherry wood veneer, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Deck space is well-considered and highly usable, reflecting its design for leisure and outdoor living. While specific maximum headroom is not detailed in the specifications, the generous beam and catamaran hull form generally allow for comfortable standing headroom throughout the main living areas. The design often includes practical elements like forward access to the trampoline, which enhances usability and connectivity with the foredeck lounging areas.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and those familiar with the Moorings 3900 often commend its practical layout and abundant storage, especially in the three-cabin "owner's version" configurations. Many owners express a strong affection for the vessel, citing its robust construction—a hallmark of Robertson & Caine—and its suitability for extended cruising. The widespread use of these models within charter fleets also speaks to their proven reliability and durability in demanding conditions.

While specific recurring common problems are not frequently highlighted in general owner discussions beyond typical wear and tear expected from a charter boat, the general reputation of Robertson & Caine catamarans for being "ruggedly built vessels known for their durability and performance" extends to the Moorings 3900. The high engine hours often seen on ex-charter boats are a consideration for potential buyers, though this also attests to their consistent operational use. The strong community around Leopard catamarans, from which the Moorings 3900 derives its roots, provides a valuable resource for owners, offering shared knowledge and support regarding maintenance and cruising experiences.