Majestic 500 Information, Review, Specs

Royal Cape Catamarans commenced its operations in 2004, establishing itself as a specialized builder of high-quality luxury multihulls. The Majestic 500, which began production in 2005 and continued until 2019, emerged as a significant model in their lineup. While Royal Cape Catamarans’ foundational designs drew initial inspiration from the E.G. van de Stadt-designed Royal Cape One Design (a monohull), the Majestic 500 catamaran itself was conceived by Fortabat Yacht Design. This approach allowed Royal Cape to translate principles of robust yacht design into the expansive world of catamarans. The company's manufacturing ethos, deeply rooted in South Africa, emphasized craftsmanship and suitability for extensive voyaging, focusing on creating yachts that exemplify luxury, safety, and style, particularly tailored for bluewater cruising and liveaboard experiences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a catamaran, the Majestic 500 offers inherent stability and abundant deck space, making traditional monohull performance ratios less directly applicable. Designed as a world-cruising vessel, it is lauded for its "beefy no-nonsense construction," suggesting a build quality intended to withstand challenging ocean conditions. Owners and reviewers frequently highlight Royal Cape catamarans for their balance of performance under sail with exceptional comfort and stability in diverse ocean conditions. While specific performance data for the 500 can vary with rig and sail choices, the option for upgrades such as a Code 0 gennaker and high-performance North Sails main and jib indicates its potential for spirited sailing. The Majestic 500 provides a stable platform and a comfortable motion, characteristic of its class, making it well-suited for extended passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The Majestic 500 excels in providing an expansive and customizable living environment. It is celebrated for its "huge amount of usable living space" and typically features a five-cabin design, capable of accommodating up to ten guests in five double cabins. Royal Cape Catamarans prioritizes spaciousness, and their vessels often include multiple en-suite staterooms with separate showers, underscoring a commitment to comfort and privacy for all aboard. The interior layouts are considered "very livable designs," focusing on creating a luxurious and accommodating atmosphere for extended periods at sea. While specific details on interior finish and materials for the 500 are not widely published, the builder's reputation for luxury suggests high-quality fit and finish with an emphasis on durability appropriate for bluewater cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and those familiar with the brand consistently praise Royal Cape Catamarans, including the Majestic 500, for their "beefy no-nonsense construction and very livable designs." This highlights a collective appreciation for the yachts' robust build quality and the comfortable, practical layouts that cater well to long-term cruising and liveaboard arrangements. The emphasis on safety, stability, and luxurious amenities means that Majestic 500 owners typically value a vessel that combines the comforts of home with the capability to traverse oceans reliably and comfortably.