Bluewater 50 Mk III Catamaran Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Bluewater 50 Mk III are defined by its significant displacement and a rig designed for ease of use. With a displacement of approximately 14.5 tonnes (dry), it is considerably heavier than performance catamarans of a similar length, which contributes to a predictable, dampened motion in a seaway. The sail plan is typically configured with a self-tacking jib and a large mainsail, often paired with an electric in-mast furling system or a slab-reefing setup with a stack pack. This "push-button" approach to sail handling is central to the boat’s identity as a shorthanded cruiser.

In editorial testing, Yachting World highlighted that the boat handles upwind conditions more like a heavy-displacement monohull than a flighty multihull, benefiting from fixed keels that provide tracking stability and protect the sail-drives and rudders. While the boat does not point as high as a performance daggerboard catamaran, it maintains momentum through the chop. A hallmark of the Mk III is the dual-helm configuration: a conventional outdoor helm for fair-weather maneuvering and a comprehensive interior navigation and steering station. This allows the watch-keeper to monitor the vessel’s progress and adjust the autopilot while remaining protected from spray or tropical heat.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Bluewater 50 Mk III is where the "Discovery" DNA is most visible, featuring the raised saloon and high-end joinery synonymous with the brand’s monohull range. The panoramic vertical windows are a signature Dixon design element, reducing solar heat gain compared to slanted windows while providing an unobstructed view of the horizon. The layout is almost exclusively owner-centric, with the Mk III typically featuring an expansive owner’s suite in the port hull, complete with a walk-in dressing area, a large head, and a dedicated shower stall.

The starboard hull generally houses two guest cabins, though the Mk III offered several refinements in stowage and utility room configurations compared to the earlier Mk I and Mk II models. According to an editorial review in Sail Magazine, the level of craftsmanship—using solid timber and high-grade veneers—separates this vessel from mass-produced catamarans. The galley is located on the main deck level, integrated into the saloon to ensure the cook remains part of the social activity, a layout that has become the industry standard but was refined here with deep fiddles and robust refrigeration for long-passage provisioning.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Discovery 50 (the progenitor of the Bluewater 50) achieved significant critical acclaim upon its debut, winning the prestigious "Luxury Cruiser" category at the European Yacht of the Year awards in 2011. The boat has been featured extensively in bluewater cruising media as a benchmark for "couple’s catamarans." It gained further visibility through the "Discovery Yachts" rallies and its presence in high-latitude cruising vlogs, where its protected helm station and robust construction are frequently cited as essential features for non-tropical voyaging.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Bluewater 50 Mk III should focus their survey on the complex systems that make the boat so comfortable.

• Weight Management: Because the boat is built to a high standard of luxury with extensive timber and heavy glass, it has a lower payload-to-displacement ratio than some lighter cats. Buyers should check for excessive "cruising creep" (overloading with gear) which can submerge the bridge deck and lead to slamming in head seas.
• Electrical Systems: These yachts are "systems-heavy," often featuring complex 24V DC and 230V AC networks, lithium-ion upgrades, and integrated BUS systems. A specialist marine electrical survey is recommended to ensure the integrity of the wiring and the health of the generator and inverter chargers.
• Sail-Drive Diaphragms: As with all catamarans of this era, the seals on the twin Yanmar or Volvo Penta sail-drives require replacement every seven years. Evidence of water in the gear oil or perishing rubber should be a primary inspection point.
• Balsa Core Integrity: While the hulls are robustly built, the decks use a balsa core for stiffness. Any improperly bedded aftermarket hardware can lead to moisture ingress. A moisture meter check around stanchion bases and hatches is vital.
• Window Seals: The large vertical panes in the saloon are a defining feature, but they are subject to significant thermal expansion. Check for any signs of "creeping" sealant or previous leaks around the window frames.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Bluewater 50 Mk III benefit from a dedicated community of Discovery enthusiasts. The most prominent resource is the Discovery Yacht Owners Association (DYOA), which provides technical support and organized rallies. While the original company faced financial restructuring, the technical heritage and support for these vessels continue through specialized service centers in the UK (particularly around the original Southampton and Plymouth hubs) that specialize in the brand's unique electrical and plumbing schematics.

The Verdict

The Bluewater 50 Mk III is a "gentleman’s catamaran," prioritizing safety, luxury, and protection over speed and capacity. It remains one of the few multihulls that truly mimics the interior ambiance of a superyacht.

Pros:

• Exceptional 360-degree visibility from a protected internal helm.
• Heavy-duty construction suitable for high-latitude and tropical voyaging alike.
• Luxury-level interior joinery and owner’s suite.
• Effortless sail handling for a crew of two.

Cons:

• High displacement limits performance in light airs.
• Limited bridge deck clearance when heavily laden for long-term cruising.
• Complex onboard systems require diligent maintenance and electrical knowledge.
• The premium build quality commands a significant price on the brokerage market.