Fountaine Pajot Louisiane 37 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Louisiane 37 is frequently described as a "sailor’s catamaran," characterized by its relatively light displacement of approximately 3,500 kg to 4,000 kg and narrow, easily driven hulls. Unlike modern catamarans that often suffer from significant slamming in head seas, the Louisiane features high bridge-deck clearance and a distinctive "V" shape in the forward sections of the nacelle to deflect waves. According to historical retrospectives from Multihulls World, the boat was designed to offer genuine windward capability, a rarity for cruising cats of its vintage.

The rig is typically a fractional sloop with a large mainsail, providing plenty of power in light air. Because the hulls are narrow, the boat does not "shove" water as much as its modern successors, allowing it to maintain high average speeds on reaches. Handling is generally considered balanced, though the original cable steering systems can feel heavy if not meticulously maintained. While it lacks the ultimate stability of a modern wide-beam catamaran, its performance envelope is much higher, often reaching double-digit speeds in moderate breezes where heavier cruisers would still be under engine power.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Louisiane 37 is a product of its performance-first philosophy, which results in a layout that differs significantly from contemporary designs. The central saloon, located on the bridge deck, is focused on navigation and dining but traditionally lacks standing headroom for taller sailors—a trade-off made to maintain the boat's low center of gravity and aerodynamic profile. The "galley-down" arrangement places the kitchen and heads in the hulls, which provides more workspace but isolates the cook from the social area in the saloon.

Throughout its production run, two primary versions were offered. The "Club" version was tailored toward the charter market and private families, typically featuring four cabins (two in each hull) and a shared head. A rarer "Owner" version often dedicated one hull to a larger suite or more extensive storage for long-range cruising. The joinery is typically a mix of molded GRP and light woods, reflecting the 1980s French aesthetic. While the living space is cramped compared to a modern 37-footer, the ventilation is excellent, and the panoramic views from the saloon windows are surprisingly good for a vessel of this age.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

For a boat that is now several decades old, the Louisiane 37 requires a rigorous pre-purchase inspection. Prospective buyers should focus on the following high-signal areas:

• Balsa Core Integrity: The decks and bridge deck are balsa-cored. If fittings have been added over the years without proper sealing, moisture can migrate into the core. A "tap test" or moisture meter check is essential to identify delamination or soft spots.
• Osmosis: Early Fountaine Pajot models were known to be susceptible to osmotic blistering in the hulls. While many have since been treated with epoxy coatings, the hulls should be inspected for signs of historic or active blistering.
• Compression at the Mast Step: The mast sits on the bridge deck, and the internal support structures can show fatigue or compression over time. Check for hairline cracks around the mast base and ensure the supporting bulkhead remains true.
• Rudder Stocks and Bearings: The rudder assemblies are known to develop play. Given the age of these vessels, the bushings often require replacement to restore precise steering feel.
• Window Seals: The large, wraparound saloon windows are a signature feature but are prone to leaking as the original bedding compounds dry out and shrink.

Community & Resources

Owners of this classic model often congregate within the broader Fountaine Pajot community, though specific technical support for the Louisiane is best found through the Fountaine Pajot Owners Association. While the manufacturer no longer stocks proprietary parts for this 1980s model, the community remains active in sharing DIY solutions for window replacement and rig tuning. Technical drawings and historical brochures are occasionally archived by European multihull enthusiast groups who celebrate the boat's status as a pioneer of the French multihull industry.

The Verdict

The Fountaine Pajot Louisiane 37 is a vintage catamaran that offers a pure sailing experience rarely found in modern, volume-heavy designs. It is an ideal choice for the experienced sailor who values speed and seaworthiness over luxury amenities.

Pros:

• Exceptional light-wind performance and high average cruising speeds.
• Low windage and high bridge-deck clearance reduce wave slamming.
• Classic, sleek aesthetic that stands out among "boxy" modern catamarans.
• Strong build quality from a legendary French yard.

Cons:

• Limited headroom in the bridge-deck saloon.
• Narrow hulls result in less storage and living volume than modern 37-footers.
• Older GRP technology requires vigilance regarding moisture and osmosis.
• Original equipment (engines, wiring) will likely require significant updates.