Lagoon 55 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The original 1980s Lagoon 55 was built at a time when Lagoon’s identity was still closely tied to the racing exploits of JTA. Consequently, the first-generation hull is often noted for a more slender, performance-tuned profile compared to contemporary voluminous designs. Its deep-V hulls and relatively light displacement for its size allowed for respectable windward performance and a "sea-kindly" motion in offshore conditions. According to historical technical data from the VPLP Design archives, the original 55 utilized advanced composite construction to maintain a favorable power-to-weight ratio.

In contrast, the modern Lagoon 55 (post-2021) prioritizes stability and ease of handling over raw speed. With a displacement of approximately 26.5 tons, the modern iteration utilizes a high-aspect-ratio rig and the option for a Code 0 to maintain momentum in light airs. Handling is centralized on the flybridge, a design evolution that has become a Lagoon hallmark. Reviews by editorial outlets like Yachting World note that the modern 55 tracks exceptionally well due to its hull length and balanced sail plan, though its high freeboard and flybridge profile mean it is more susceptible to windage when maneuvering in tight marinas compared to the lower-profile original.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Lagoon 55 has evolved from a semi-custom high-end cruiser to a sophisticated floating residence. The original 1987 model offered multiple cabin configurations, often featuring four to six cabins, which made it a pioneer in the luxury charter market. Its curved salon windows were a revolutionary aesthetic choice at the time, providing panoramic views that are now industry standard.

The modern 55 takes this concept further with a layout designed by Nauta Design, focusing on the "seamless transition" between the interior salon and the aft cockpit. This version is available in 4, 5, or 6-cabin versions. A notable variation is the "Owner's Version," which devotes an entire hull to a master suite including a desk, walk-in closet, and expansive head. The modern model also introduces the "aft terrace," an open-air extension of the cockpit that allows for direct access to the water, a feature absent in the original sibling models like the Lagoon 57, which was built on a stretched version of the 55 hull to offer more storage and waterline length.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Lagoon 55 is frequently cited in maritime history as the "Grandmother of Lagoons." Its debut at the Paris Boat Show in the late 1980s is documented by the Lagoon Catamarans official history as the moment that shifted the market's perception of catamarans from niche racing machines to viable luxury yachts. The modern 55 has also garnered significant media attention, winning the "British Yachting Award" and being a focal point of major international boat shows since its launch at the 2021 Bordeaux private days.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting an original 1987–1990s Lagoon 55, buyers should focus on the longevity of the JTA-built composite. While high-quality, these early boats may show signs of "crazing" in the gelcoat or potential delamination if they have seen heavy charter use.

1. Bulkhead Integrity: On older models, check the secondary bonding of the bulkheads to the hull, particularly near the mast step, as these areas endure the highest loads.
2. Osmosis: Early Lagoons were built before the widespread use of vinylester resins in outer layers; a thorough moisture meter check of the hulls is essential.
3. Rigging Fatigue: Because the original 55 was often pushed hard in charter fleets, the standing rigging and chainplates require a microscopic inspection for stress fractures.
4. Modern Systems: On the post-2021 models, the complexity of the digital switching (often B&G or C-Zone) means buyers should ensure all software updates are current and that the lithium battery banks (if equipped) show healthy cycle counts.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Lagoon 55 benefit from one of the largest support networks in the multihull world. The "Club Lagoon" is a primary resource for technical documentation and parts sourcing. Additionally, the Lagoon Owners Association provides a platform for sharing maintenance tips specifically for the older JTA-era models, which require different care than the modern infusion-molded variants.

The Verdict

The Lagoon 55 is a landmark model that bridges the gap between the experimental multihull designs of the 1980s and the sophisticated luxury platforms of the 2020s. Whether choosing the classic VPLP lines of the original or the "sea terrace" luxury of the modern version, it remains a benchmark for blue-water comfort.

Pros:

• Historical Pedigree: The original model offers a more "active" sailing experience with a pedigree from JTA's racing division.
• Living Space: The modern 55 offers unparalleled volume and outdoor social areas for its size class.
• Resale Value: As a flagship model for a top-tier builder, the Lagoon 55 maintains strong demand on the brokerage market.

Cons:

• Windage: The high profile of the modern flybridge version can make docking challenging in high crosswinds.
• Maintenance Complexity: On newer models, the high level of automation and luxury systems requires specialized technical knowledge to repair.
• Age Concerns: Original 1980s models may require significant refitting of plumbing and electrical systems to meet modern standards.