Lagoon 570 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Lagoon 570 is widely regarded as one of the fastest production catamarans ever built by the shipyard, largely due to its relatively slim hull forms and lower displacement-to-length ratio compared to its successors, the Lagoon 500 and 620. By utilizing a low-profile coachroof and keeping the boom closer to the deck, designers achieved a lower center of gravity that significantly reduces pitching in a seaway. On a reach, the 570 is known to comfortably sustain double-digit speeds, often exceeding 10 to 12 knots in moderate breezes—a feat many modern, heavier catamarans struggle to match.

The helm position is situated on the aft bulkhead of the coachroof, providing excellent visibility of the sails while keeping the skipper protected from the elements. Because the 570 lacks the massive windage of a flybridge, it tracks exceptionally well and displays less "sailing at anchor" than more voluminous models. The boat was typically equipped with a powerful fractional rig and a large overlapping genoa, though many owners have since added bowsprits for code zeros or asymmetric spinnakers to further enhance light-wind performance.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Lagoon 570 showcases the craftsmanship of an era when high-quality woodwork was the standard. The interior was primarily styled by Nauta Design, featuring a blend of warm cherry or maple finishes and expansive panoramic windows that provide nearly 360-degree views from the salon. The layout was highly customizable, generally offered in three distinct versions: the "Owner" version, which dedicates the entire starboard hull to a master suite; the "Club" version with four cabins; and a high-occupancy "Charter" version featuring up to five or six cabins plus crew quarters.

A hallmark of the 570 is its bridge deck clearance. Unlike modern catamarans that often suffer from bridge deck slamming in choppy head seas, the 570 sits relatively high off the water, ensuring a quieter and more comfortable motion when sailing upwind. The galley-down or galley-up options allowed owners to choose between a more social salon or a dedicated culinary workspace tucked into the port hull. The level of finish—characterized by solid wood trim and robust hardware—reflects its positioning as a high-end offshore passage-maker.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Lagoon 570 should focus their inspection on the structural integrity of the bridge deck and the condition of the balsa-cored decks. As these vessels are now entering their third decade of service, certain age-related maintenance items are common:

• Standing Rigging and Chainplates: Due to the high loads generated by the 570’s powerful rig, the oversized chainplates and standing rigging should be meticulously inspected for stress fractures or corrosion.
• Window Sealing: The large, iconic panoramic windows are prone to seal degradation over time. Check for signs of water ingress or "crazing" in the acrylic panels, which can be an expensive repair on a vessel of this scale.
• Rudder Bearings and Steering Cables: Given the boat’s performance orientation, the steering system often sees more "feel" and load than on a sluggish cruiser. Slack in the helm or stiff rudder movement often points to worn bearings or aging cables.
• Bulkhead Bonding: While the 570 is built robustly, some units that have seen heavy charter use or hard offshore racing may show signs of movement in the tabbing where the interior bulkheads meet the hull. Look for cracking in the gelcoat or gaps in the joinery.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Lagoon 570 often find support through the broader Lagoon Catamarans network, which maintains an active presence through Club Lagoon. However, because the 570 is a "legacy" model, technical data is often found through the VPLP archives or dedicated owner groups that focus on the pre-flybridge era of Lagoon designs. These communities are vital for sourcing specific parts like the original Goiot hatches or custom stainless steel components that were unique to this production run.

The Verdict

The Lagoon 570 remains a standout choice for the sailor who wants the space of a 50-plus-foot catamaran without the "floating condo" handling characteristics of more recent designs. It is a true sailor’s multihull, offering a rare combination of VPLP-engineered speed and the legendary comfort of the Beneteau Group’s flagship line.

Pros:

• Superior sailing performance and bridge deck clearance compared to modern flybridge models.
• High-quality interior finishes with genuine wood joinery.
• Proven blue-water capability with many hulls having completed multiple circumnavigations.
• Excellent visibility from the helm without the stability trade-offs of an upper deck.

Cons:

• Maintenance costs can be high due to the complexity of 57-foot systems and aging components.
• Lacks the "social" layout features like forward cockpits found on newer designs.
• Large sail plan requires a competent crew or powerful electric winches to manage safely.