Aimed at both private owners and the charter market, the Leopard 45 reflects that dual role in its layout. It has a beam of 24 feet 2 inches and a displacement of 31,967 pounds.
Design and Construction
Robertson & Caine builds substantial boats, and that approach is evident in the Leopard 45. The basic construction, auxiliary systems, and powerplant installations are all top grade. The boat uses conventional fiberglass construction, and even hidden areas are smoothly finished. Molded components and interior joinery fit together precisely.
The hulls are balsa-cored, with solid fiberglass at hardware mounting points. The builder has also begun using infusion for smaller parts. Structurally, Alex Simonis replaced the forward and aft bridgedeck bulkheads with a latticework of fiberglass and stainless steel. This cleared the way to move the mast aft and produce a better-balanced sail plan.
The hulls have fine entries and flare rapidly above the chine for reserve buoyancy. A slight indentation amidships helps them pass through waves at displacement speed. Ample bridgedeck clearance and the subtle hull configuration allow the bow wave to pass smoothly between the hulls.
Rig, Performance, and Handling
The rig is modern without being extreme. Its square-top mainsail drops easily into a boom bag, while the roller-furling genoa can be sheeted close for windward sailing. A gennaker on its own furler and a double-sheeted mainsail complete the sail plan.
All control lines except the gennaker furler lead to electric winches at the helm. The large hardtop also allows an average person to reach the boom along its full length.
In 10 knots of breeze, the Leopard 45 made 6.1 knots closehauled. Its calculated displacement hull speed is just over 8 knots—a reasonable average in the tradewinds, though the boat will exceed that speed in bursts.
Close-quarters handling is simple and predictable. The catamaran has a turning circle of about one boatlength and can pirouette by running its engines in opposite directions.
When reaching in moderate conditions, the leeward bow has been seen plowing through waves. However, Simonis drove the boat hard off Cape Town without water reaching the foredeck, and the hull shape keeps heavier seas clear of the forward deck.
Accommodations and Deck Layout
In the three-cabin owner version, the entire starboard hull forms one long suite. The port hull contains two comfortable cabins, each with its own head and shower, as well as a tiny forepeak berth favored by children. Charter versions have a four-cabin, four-head arrangement.
A large forward cockpit sits behind a watertight polycarbonate doorway from the saloon. It functions as either a private retreat or the best seat underway. A heavy sliding door separates it from the main living area.
The galley is forward, with a basic chart table to port, while the aft cockpit is huge. The traffic flow throughout is outstanding. Overhead and side windows bring plenty of light into the saloon, and the décor is simple and attractive.
The helm occupies a raised platform to starboard, with a bench for two. All direct boat handling is done outside, although a remote autopilot allows the skipper to steer from inside or from the forward cockpit.
Systems and Cruising Practicalities
Engine access is good, and common maintenance points are easy to reach, simplifying routine ownership. The hardtop carries a neat bank of solar panels, while the tachometers are mounted on the main dash where the skipper can read them easily.
The boat also has a simple, sturdy system for storing and launching the dinghy. Large, low transoms make swimming and going ashore easier.
With 185 gallons of fuel, 206 gallons of water, and twin 45hp Yanmars, the Leopard 45 is set up for extended cruising without immediate rework.
Known Issues
Reviewers identified several shortcomings in ergonomics rather than construction. The saloon lacks good grab points, the cushions could be more comfortable, and the seats are proportioned for tall people rather than small women. These are livability concerns, not defects in the builder’s execution.
The Verdict
The Leopard 45 is a thoughtfully engineered cruising catamaran that balances charter practicality with owner comfort. Its structural refinement, predictable close-quarters handling, and versatile cockpit arrangement make it a standout in the midsize multihull class. Minor interior ergonomic shortcomings are the only caveats.
Pros
- Precise fit, top-grade construction, and smoothly finished hidden areas
- Predictable docking, with a one-boatlength turning circle and twin-engine control
- Flexible accommodations, from an owner’s suite to a four-cabin charter layout
- Forward cockpit and watertight doorway expand the living space
Cons
- Reviewers found the saloon grab points inadequate
- Seats and cushions aren’t ideal for smaller occupants
