Lagoon 500 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing experience of the Lagoon 500 is defined by its flybridge configuration and high-volume hulls. From the elevated helm station, the skipper enjoys 360-degree visibility, which is particularly advantageous when docking a vessel with a 28-foot beam. While the high freeboard and flybridge structure create significant windage, the boat is remarkably stable. Editorial testing by Cruising World noted that the vessel maintains a dignified motion in a seaway, with the "gull-wing" bridge deck design effectively minimizing the slamming often associated with low-clearance catamarans.

The sail plan typically features a large-roach fully battened mainsail and a furling genoa, controlled by electric winches centered at the helm. With a sail area-to-displacement ratio geared toward comfort rather than racing, the 500 requires a stiff breeze to truly come alive. However, it tracks exceptionally well and offers a sense of "sea-kindliness" that appeals to long-distance cruisers. Under power, the twin 55hp or 75hp sail-drive engines provide the necessary torque to move the heavy hulls, and the distance between the propellers makes the boat highly maneuverable in tight marinas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Lagoon 500 was a collaboration with Nauta Design, focusing on light and ergonomic flow. The most striking feature of the salon is the signature Lagoon vertical windows, which maximize internal volume and reduce the greenhouse effect of direct overhead sunlight. The galley is typically u-shaped and serves both the interior dining area and the cockpit via a pass-through window.

Lagoon offered the 500 in three primary layouts:

1. Owner’s Version: The entire starboard hull is dedicated to a private suite, featuring a king-sized berth, a desk/office area, and an expansive head with a separate shower stall.
2. Four-Cabin Version: Both hulls feature two ensuite staterooms, a popular choice for high-end charter operations.
3. Five-Cabin Version: This configuration adds a smaller fifth cabin, often with bunk beds, located midships in the port hull, typically intended for a professional crew or children.

The materials used in the cabinetry generally consist of Alpi wood veneers, which are durable and resistant to the humidity of the marine environment. Headroom is generous throughout, often exceeding 6' 7" in the salon.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Lagoon 500 gained significant cultural traction through the early wave of sailing YouTubers. Most notably, the channel Sailing Zatara utilized a Lagoon 500, named Zatara, to document their family's circumnavigation for several years. This exposure showcased the boat's ability to serve as a reliable blue-water home for a large family, emphasizing its storage capacity and heavy-weather durability.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Lagoon 500 with a checklist tailored to its age and construction:

• Flybridge Structure: Inspect the flybridge deck for any signs of delamination or core softness, particularly around the mast step and the helm station mounting points.
• Escape Hatches: Early Lagoon models have had documented issues with the emergency escape hatches located in the hulls. Ensure these have been replaced or reinforced according to manufacturer recommendations.
• Electrical Load: Because the 500 is often equipped with high-draw appliances (air conditioning, watermakers, electric winches), the house battery bank and charging systems (alternators and generators) should be rigorously tested.
• Rigging and Winches: Given the high loads on the flybridge-centered winch farm, check the mounting bolts and the condition of the aluminum base plates for signs of galvanic corrosion or stress cracking.
• Transom Steps: On older units, the teak or non-skid on the transom steps can wear thin. Check the integrity of the swim ladder mounts and the engine room seals located behind the transom stairs.

Community & Resources

Owners and researchers can find technical support through the Lagoon Owners Group, a prominent international association that shares maintenance wikis and technical bulletins. Additionally, Club Lagoon, the manufacturer’s official portal, provides access to archived manuals and parts lists for the 500 model.

The Verdict

The Lagoon 500 remains a benchmark for the "grand cruising" catamaran category. While it lacks the pointing ability of performance-oriented cats, its trade-off is an unparalleled level of living space and safety.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume and 360-degree visibility from the salon.
• Flybridge design creates a vast "third level" of living and social space.
• Proven blue-water pedigree with numerous successful circumnavigations.
• Robust build quality from the CNB production era.

Cons:

• High windage can make docking challenging in strong crosswinds.
• Heavy displacement results in modest light-wind sailing performance.
• Maintenance costs for large-yacht systems (generator, dual engines, multiple heads) can be high.