Excess 13 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Excess 13 is engineered to restore the "tactile connection" often lost in large cruising multihulls. Central to this experience are the twin aft helm stations, which are positioned low and outboard at the rear of each hull. This placement provides the helmsman with a direct line of sight to the sails and a physical proximity to the water that mimics the feel of a performance monohull. According to editorial tests by Multihulls World, the steering is notably responsive and free of the hydraulic "numbness" common in flybridge designs.

Technical performance is further enhanced by a respectable sail-area-to-displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 24 in the standard configuration. For owners seeking more power, the "Pulse Line" package upgrades the rig with a taller mast and more aggressive sail plan, increasing the upwind sail area from 1,237 sq. ft. to 1,334 sq. ft. Reports from Sail Magazine indicate that the boat performs exceptionally well under a Code 0, easily hitting speeds of 9.5 knots in just 12 knots of true wind. The use of carbon struts in the construction and a focus on weight distribution help the boat accelerate quickly out of tacks, though its relatively light displacement of 23,370 lbs means performance is sensitive to over-loading.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior, designed by Jean-Marc Piaton, leans into a "less is more" aesthetic that balances weight-saving with modern livability. The most distinctive layout is the 3-cabin "owner version," which dedicates the entire port hull to a master suite. This configuration includes a rare feature for a boat of this size: a dedicated walk-in dressing room and a forward-facing office desk with a sea view. The 4-cabin version provides mirrored layouts in both hulls, making it a highly competitive option for the charter market.

Innovation in the living spaces is evidenced by several "smart" design choices. The cabin doors serve a dual function, swinging to close either the entrance or the wardrobe, which saves weight and optimizes passage space. Materials such as cork are integrated into storage areas to dampen noise and prevent items from sliding, while the use of cedar and walnut finishes avoids the "bare gelcoat" look often found in lightweight cruisers. The galley-up design maintains a strong social link with the cockpit, utilizing a massive sliding door and oversized windows to provide 360-degree visibility.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Excess 13 achieved immediate critical acclaim upon its debut, winning the Multihull of the Year 2025 award in the IMS Premiere category at the International Multihull Show in La Grande-Motte. It has also been named a nominee for Sail Magazine’s 2026 Best Boats awards, reflecting its status as a benchmark for the next generation of performance-leaning cruising catamarans.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

As a relatively new model, technical data on long-term wear is still emerging, but early reviews and technical assessments identify several areas for prospective buyers to monitor:

• Helm Exposure: The aft helm positions, while excellent for sailing feel, leave the skipper highly exposed to sun, wind, and rain. Buyers should inspect the optional helm biminis to ensure they provide adequate protection for their specific cruising grounds.
• Weight Management: The Lombard hull design relies on lightness for its performance edge. Owners have noted that "weight creep"—the addition of heavy gensets, dive compressors, and high-capacity watermakers—can significantly degrade the boat's ability to glide and point effectively.
• Refrigeration Capacity: Some early feedback suggests the standard 130-liter fridge capacity may be insufficient for extended blue-water cruising with a full crew, necessitating the addition of optional freezer units.
• Visibility Maneuvering: While visibility of the sails is excellent, the low-profile helms can make it difficult to see the opposite bow when docking. Checking the sightlines through the saloon windows during a sea trial is recommended.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for owners and enthusiasts is the Excess Tribe, an official brand community that facilitates the sharing of technical documents, owner modifications, and organized rallies. The brand also maintains a strong presence at major international boat shows where the "Excess Design Team" frequently interacts with owners to gather feedback for iterative improvements.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Superior helm feedback and tactile sailing experience compared to traditional cruising cats.
• Highly innovative interior features, including the "dual-purpose" doors and dedicated owner’s office.
• Excellent performance in light winds, particularly when equipped with the Pulse Line rig.
• Functional deck features like the swing-down transoms and rainwater recovery system.

Cons:

• Exposed helm stations can be uncomfortable in inclement weather or heavy spray.
• Slightly less interior volume and storage than "condo-style" competitors of the same length.
• Performance is highly sensitive to displacement, requiring disciplined weight management.