HH 66 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The handling characteristics of the HH66 are defined by its racing pedigree, specifically the influence of Morrelli & Melvin’s work on America’s Cup and offshore racing designs. Unlike standard cruising catamarans, the HH66 features deep, curved "C" daggerboards that provide significant vertical lift, reducing the wetted surface area and increasing speed as the boat accelerates. According to technical insights from Morrelli & Melvin, these boards allow the yacht to point exceptionally high upwind, often rivaling performance monohulls in tacking angles.

The boat’s power-to-weight ratio is a key metric; with a displacement of approximately 17,000 kg to 20,000 kg (depending on the specific hull's equipment), it is remarkably light for a 66-footer. This allows the HH66 to regularly sail at or above wind speed in 8-12 knots of breeze. Handling is typically managed via two distinct helm configurations offered by the yard: a forward-cockpit layout favored by those prioritizing visibility and sail handling from a central "pit," or the more traditional twin aft-helm stations that provide a better feel for the rudders and a more social connection to the cockpit. Steering is reported to be exceptionally responsive for a multihull, utilizing a high-modulus carbon fiber rudder system that provides the tactile feedback necessary for "flying a hull" in controlled, high-performance scenarios.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its racing-derived construction, the interior of the HH66 is a masterclass in weight-sensitive luxury. The Hudson Yacht Group employs a semi-custom approach, meaning no two HH66 interiors are identical. Common to all, however, is the use of lightweight cored cabinetry finished with real wood veneers and carbon fiber accents that serve as a constant reminder of the boat's high-tech origins. The "standard" layout typically features a massive open-plan salon that flows seamlessly into the aft cockpit, creating a vast indoor-outdoor living space.

The boat was offered in several significant variations. For instance, the HH66-01 R-Six featured a distinct interior layout focused on charter-friendly luxury, while the HH66-03 Nala was optimized for competitive racing with a more utilitarian, weight-saving interior approach. The master suite in the port hull usually occupies the entire length of the hull, offering a king-sized berth, a dedicated office space, and a large head with a separate shower. Headroom is generous throughout, often exceeding 6'6", though the hulls remain narrow below the waterline to minimize drag.

Popular Mentions & Media

The HH66 became a viral sensation in the sailing community through the exploits of specific hulls. Nala, one of the most famous iterations, dominated the Caribbean racing circuit, winning its class at the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta and proving that a luxury cat could beat dedicated racing machines. The model’s development and the "forward helm" vs. "aft helm" debate were heavily documented in a series of deep-dive reviews by Cruising World, which highlighted the yacht's ability to cross oceans at average speeds exceeding 15 knots.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned HH66 must approach the vessel as they would a high-performance aircraft or a supercar. The complexity of the systems requires specialized knowledge for maintenance.

• Hydraulic Systems: The HH66 relies heavily on a complex PLC-controlled hydraulic system for sail trimming and daggerboard movement. Inspections should focus on the integrity of the seals, the age of the hydraulic hoses, and the software version of the control system.
• Carbon-to-Metal Corrosion: Because the boat is primarily carbon fiber, any stainless steel fittings must be perfectly isolated to prevent galvanic corrosion. Inspectors should check all through-hull fittings and chainplates for signs of bubbling or salt crystallization.
• Daggerboard Bearings: The "C" foils exert immense pressure on the trunk bearings. High-speed sailing can lead to wear in the sacrificial bearing surfaces, which may require replacement to ensure smooth board deployment.
• Rigging Inspection: Most HH66s are equipped with carbon fiber masts and EC6 or Kevlar standing rigging. These components have strict service life intervals and require professional ultrasonic testing to verify structural integrity.

Community & Resources

The HH66 community is small and exclusive, primarily supported directly by the HH Catamarans factory and their global service network. There is a dedicated owner’s group managed by the manufacturer that facilitates the sharing of technical data and performance tuning tips. Because the boats are semi-custom, the original build books and wiring schematics provided by Hudson Yacht Group are the most critical resources for any owner.

The Verdict

The HH66 is not a boat for the casual cruiser; it is a high-stakes performance machine that demands an attentive, skilled hand and a significant maintenance budget. However, for the sailor who refuses to choose between 25-knot speeds and a designer interior, it has few equals.

Pros

• Exceptional "all-carbon" build quality.
• World-class performance, particularly in light air and upwind.
• State-of-the-art semi-custom luxury interiors.
• Significant lift provided by curved C-foils.

Cons

• Highly complex systems require professional-level maintenance.
• Deep draft with daggerboards down limits some coastal cruising.
• Extreme power requires a high degree of situational awareness and sailing skill.