Moorings 4600 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Moorings 4600, also widely recognized as the Leopard 46, was introduced by Robertson & Caine in 2008. This launch marked another significant step in the shipyard's evolution as a global leader in catamaran manufacturing, building upon their established partnership with The Moorings, which commenced in the mid-1990s. While Robertson & Caine are consistently credited as the designers, naval architects such as Anthony Key have played instrumental roles in shaping the Leopard product line, contributing to its distinctive characteristics and appeal.

Robertson & Caine's design philosophy, emphasizing "integration simplified," is evident in the Moorings 4600. The builder's ethos during this era focused on producing ruggedly built vessels known for their durability and performance, particularly well-suited for demanding charter environments and extended cruising. The development of the Moorings 4600 aimed to blend ease of boat handling with effective boat speed, a hallmark of their designs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a catamaran, the Moorings 4600 offers a distinct sailing experience characterized by stability, ample deck space, and comfortable motion. With a length overall of 46.33 feet and a wide beam of 24.83 feet, she provides a substantial platform for cruising. The boat features a fractional sloop rig, contributing to a balanced sail plan. While specific performance ratios are less applicable to catamarans of this size, the Moorings 4600 is known for its "excellent sailing characteristics" and smooth performance across various conditions. Her design allows for a harmonious blend of performance, comfort, and style, making her well-suited for both relaxed cruising and more ambitious voyages. Equipped with twin diesel engines, often two 80 horsepower units, the boat boasts impressive maneuverability under power, compensating for any traditional monohull-like pointing ability, a common trait of cruising catamarans.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Moorings 4600 is designed for spaciousness and comfort, reflecting its primary role as a charter and cruising yacht. The catamaran is typically available in highly versatile layouts, most commonly a 4-cabin or a 5-cabin configuration, both offering ample space and often featuring en-suite heads for each cabin. The design prioritizes indoor-outdoor living, with a notable "four-panel glass door" that creates a smooth integration between the expansive aft cockpit and the walkthrough salon, forming a versatile entertainment area.

The interior boasts a "luxurious design and roomy layout," complemented by premium materials and attention to detail, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. The impressive beam allows for generous headroom throughout the living spaces and provides significant storage capacity. Beyond the main salon and cabins, the Moorings 4600 typically includes a well-appointed galley and ample natural light and ventilation, contributing to a comfortable living environment for extended periods aboard. Additional exterior spaces, such as a foredeck and often a flybridge lounge, further enhance the boat's livability and offer diverse areas for relaxation and enjoyment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Moorings 4600, or its Leopard 46 counterpart, generally appreciate its robust construction and the spaciousness it offers for comfortable cruising and extended stays aboard. Many praise its stability and ease of handling, especially given its size, highlighting its suitability for family cruising or charter operations. The twin engine setup is frequently lauded for providing exceptional maneuverability in tight quarters.

However, some owners have reported common maintenance considerations, such as issues with the original davit designs, which occasionally experienced cracking or failure, though these issues have been noted as being addressed or improved upon in later models or with aftermarket solutions. While some Leopard catamaran owners have shared experiences of "nightmare warranty issues," others report having "never had any issues" with components like windows, suggesting varied experiences. Robertson & Caine does provide a 14-month warranty covering manufacturing and cosmetic defects, which helps address initial concerns. Overall, the widespread use and proven reliability of these catamarans contribute to a strong owner community, benefiting from the vessel's prevalence in global charter fleets and private ownership.