Lafitte 66 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Lafitte 66 adheres to Robert Perry’s signature design philosophy: a relatively low-wetted-surface hull paired with a high-aspect-ratio rig. According to the Robert H. Perry Yacht Designers archives, the model features a modern underbody for its era, typically utilizing a fin keel and a large skeg-hung rudder. This configuration provides a distinct advantage over the full-keel heavy displacement cruisers of the same period, offering superior tracking in heavy weather without sacrificing the ability to maneuver in tight quarters.

With a substantial Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio, the boat is designed to "shoulder" aside heavy seas rather than hobby-horsing. Owners of Perry-designed CHB hulls often report that the boat feels "stiff," standing up well to its canvas in 20-25 knots of breeze. The Sail Area/Displacement (SA/D) ratio is typically engineered to ensure the boat remains powered up in light-to-moderate air, a common critique of many traditional Taiwanese trawler-style builders that ventured into sailboats. On the Lafitte 66, the cutter rig is the most common configuration, allowing for a versatile sail plan that can be easily managed by a small crew through reefing or furling the staysail.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Lafitte 66 is a showcase of the woodworking prowess for which Chung Hwa Boat was renowned. Utilizing solid teak and high-grade veneers, the living spaces are characterized by a sense of permanence and warmth. The standard layout usually features a sprawling master stateroom aft with a private head and shower, taking full advantage of the boat's significant beam.

Unlike the Lafitte 44, which was more constrained by its dimensions, the 66-foot variant allows for multiple guest cabin configurations. Variations often include two forward guest cabins with bunk or V-berth arrangements, a dedicated navigation station that serves as a communication hub, and a large, U-shaped galley designed for use at sea. The salon is typically elevated or expansive enough to provide excellent natural light, avoiding the "basement" feel of many older deep-draft cruisers. While the Lafitte 44 is its most famous sibling, the yard also produced the Lafitte 66 alongside custom variations of the CHB trawler line, often sharing the same heavy-duty hardware and plumbing standards found in their powerboat counterparts.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Lafitte 66 must account for the specific maintenance requirements of a 1980s-era Taiwanese build. While the hulls are generally overbuilt and solid fiberglass, the auxiliary systems and aesthetic finishes require scrutiny.

• Teak Deck Integrity: Like many CHB builds, the Lafitte 66 often featured thick teak decks fastened with screws into a cored sub-deck. Over decades, these screws can allow water to penetrate the core. A professional moisture survey of the deck is mandatory.
• Chainplate Corrosion: The stainless steel used in some Taiwanese yards during this era was susceptible to crevice corrosion, particularly where the chainplates pass through the deck. Inspection of the tangs and bolts is critical for offshore readiness.
• Fuel and Water Tanks: The original tanks were often made of black iron or stainless steel and were glassed into the structure. Replacing these tanks on a vessel of this size is a major surgical undertaking if they have begun to leak.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: Due to the loads generated by a 66-foot hull, the bushings in the skeg-hung rudder can wear down, leading to vibration or "play" in the steering.

Community & Resources

While there is no single-model association exclusively for the 66, owners typically find technical support through the broader Robert Perry design community. The Robert H. Perry Yacht Designers studio remains an active resource for original drawings and design consultations. Technical discussions regarding the construction methods of the Chung Hwa yard are frequently hosted on broader blue water cruising forums, where the shared DNA of the Lafitte and Marine Trader lines is well-documented.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Exceptional Pedigree: A Robert Perry design built by one of Taiwan's most experienced yards.
• Blue Water Capability: Heavy displacement and a balanced rig make it a true global cruiser.
• Craftsmanship: Exquisite interior joinery that is difficult and expensive to replicate in modern production boats.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensive: Extensive teak and older stainless steel require significant "brightwork" and hardware oversight.
• Systems Complexity: The sheer scale of a 66-footer introduces complex electrical and hydraulic systems that require professional maintenance.
• Limited Market: Finding a well-maintained example can be difficult due to the low production numbers.