Moorings 4700 Information, Review, Specs

The Moorings 4700, entering production in 2002, emerged from Robertson & Caine's strategic partnership with The Moorings charter company, which began in the mid-1990s. This collaboration solidified Robertson & Caine's position as a leading global manufacturer of catamarans, with the Leopard brand becoming synonymous with capable charter yachts. The design of the Moorings 4700/Leopard 47 is primarily attributed to naval architects Morrelli & Melvin, known for their work on various racing, cruising, and commercial yachts. While other prominent designers like Alex Simonis have contributed significantly to the broader Leopard line, Morrelli & Melvin penned this specific model.

Robertson & Caine's manufacturing ethos, deeply rooted in robust South African boatbuilding, emphasizes durability and functionality. During this era, the shipyard focused on creating vessels that could withstand the rigors of charter operations while also appealing to private owners seeking reliable bluewater cruising platforms. This often involved designing sail and power versions of the same craft, maximizing common components without sacrificing the performance of either.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Moorings 4700 / Leopard 47 is widely regarded as an excellent sailing vessel, praised for its performance and seaworthiness. With a reported sail area of 1,334 square feet and a displacement of 22,420 pounds, the catamaran is designed to deliver a balance of speed and stability. Its twin keels and dual rudders contribute to its handling characteristics, making it responsive and manageable. The theoretical hull speed is calculated at approximately 8.67 knots. Owners and delivery crews consistently highlight the yacht's build quality, performance, and overall livability, making it suitable for extended cruising and liveaboard lifestyles. However, like many catamarans, some owners have noted the potential for bridgedeck slamming in rougher conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Moorings 4700 / Leopard 47 is designed to maximize living space and comfort, reflecting its popular role in charter fleets and among private owners. The typical layout of the sailing version features four total cabins and four bathrooms, providing ample sleeping accommodations and privacy, often with berths for 8 to 12 individuals. While specific headroom details are not widely published, the design aims to offer generous living spaces both inside and out.

Reviews indicate that the interior layout, typical of older charter designs, can be more compartmentalized, offering distinct areas for various functions. Generally, the boat includes a spacious salon, a well-appointed galley, and multiple cabins with dedicated heads. The overall finish quality often features durable materials suitable for its intended use, balancing practicality with comfort. Details on specific wood trim or fiberglass finishes would vary but align with Robertson & Caine's reputation for solid construction.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Moorings 4700 and Leopard 47 consistently commend the catamaran for its robust construction, seaworthiness, and overall livability, making it a popular choice for those seeking a comfortable and capable cruising platform. Its popularity as a charter model in the early 2000s means there are many units available on the used market, often at an affordable price point for its size.

Common strengths highlighted by owners include the boat's reliable performance under sail and power, its ability to stand up to various sea conditions, and the generous living spaces it offers. However, as with many vessels that have seen charter service, potential weaknesses often revolve around the aging of original components. While not specific to the 4700, a general concern for older charter designs can be the tendency for original deck fittings to develop leaks over time, potentially requiring re-bedding. The potential for bridgedeck slamming in very rough conditions has also been noted by some catamaran owners, a characteristic common to certain multihull designs. Overall, the Moorings 4700/Leopard 47 maintains a strong reputation for being a reliable and practical choice for cruising sailors.