Excess 15 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The defining characteristic of the Excess 15’s handling is the feedback provided by its twin aft helm stations. Positioned on the trailing edge of each hull, these helms use Dyneema steering cables to provide a more direct, tactile connection to the balanced rudders than the hydraulic systems found on flybridge models. In an editorial review by Yachting World, testers noted that this configuration allows the helmsman to look directly up the leach of the mainsail and feel the boat’s acceleration in gusts.

Performance is further enhanced by the optional "Pulse Line" package, which increases the mast height and provides over 10% more sail area compared to the standard rig. With a high aspect ratio and a sail area-to-displacement (SA/Disp) ratio that leans toward the performance side of the cruising spectrum, the Excess 15 is capable of high-single-digit speeds in light air and can comfortably reach into the mid-teens when the wind exceeds 20 knots. The VPLP-designed hulls feature a significant bridge deck clearance to minimize slamming in choppy seas, a common complaint in more volume-focused designs.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Excess 15 is defined by a "Less is More" philosophy, utilizing modern materials and a minimalist aesthetic that the manufacturer calls the "Excess Lab." The layout is highly modular, offered in three, four, or six-cabin configurations. In the owner’s version, the entire starboard hull is dedicated to a master suite featuring a large island bed, a desk area, and a spacious head with a separate shower.

According to technical specifications detailed by Sail Magazine, the saloon provides 360-degree visibility, facilitated by vertical windows that maximize internal volume and reduce solar heat gain. A notable innovation is the optional retractable sunroof in the cockpit transition, which allows the crew to open the living area to the sky. Sibling models in the range, such as the Excess 11, 12, and 14, share this design language but the 15 is the only model in the lineup to offer a six-cabin, six-head variant, making it a unique flagship that serves both private owners and the high-end boutique charter market.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Excess 15 gained significant industry attention through the "Excess Challenge," a digital and real-world racing campaign that allowed sailors to compare the boat's polar diagrams and performance data against virtual benchmarks. The model has been a fixture in major boat show circuits, frequently cited in "Boat of the Year" shortlists by European and American sailing publications for its attempt to redefine the "sport-cruising" catamaran category.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

As a relatively modern production boat, the Excess 15 does not have the decades of data associated with older hulls, but certain trends have emerged in technical forums and owner discussions:

• Steering Cable Tension: The Dyneema steering cables provide excellent feel but require regular inspection and tensioning during the first few hundred miles of use as the line settles.
• Bimini Stability: Buyers should inspect the optional composite bimini and its supports. On early hulls, some owners reported vibration in the structure when sailing at high speeds into a headwind.
• Aft Helm Exposure: While the aft helms offer better visibility of the sails, they leave the helmsman exposed to the elements. Ensure the boat is equipped with the optional helm biminis if tropical or high-latitude cruising is planned.
• Finish Details: As with many high-volume production boats, inspect the cabinetry joinery and the sealing around the large saloon windows for any signs of water ingress or "creaking" during heavy sea states.

Community & Resources

The Excess 15 is supported by the Excess Tribe, an official digital community and mobile app designed by the builder to connect owners, share technical manuals, and organize rallies. Technical support and owner discussions are also frequently found within the broader Beneteau Group owner associations, though the Excess brand maintains its own distinct identity for social events and regattas.

The Verdict

The Excess 15 is a bold departure from the "condo-maran" trend, prioritizing the joy of sailing without sacrificing the creature comforts expected in a modern 50-foot multihull.

Pros:

• Exceptional helm feedback for a cruising catamaran.
• The "Pulse Line" rig offers genuine performance in light air.
• Versatile layout options ranging from private owner suites to 12-berth configurations.
• Modern, bright interior with excellent natural ventilation.

Cons:

• Aft helm positions can feel exposed in following seas or heavy rain.
• The minimalist "Lab" interior may feel less "warm" than traditional wood-heavy designs.
• Larger footprint makes finding slip space more challenging than smaller siblings like the Excess 11.