Lipari 41 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Lipari 41 is frequently characterized by its balance of light-air agility and predictable heavy-weather behavior. With a lightship displacement of approximately 21,600 lbs and a standard sail area of 963 square feet, the boat possesses a power-to-weight ratio that allows it to outpace many heavier production catamarans in its size class. According to technical assessments by Cruising World, the vessel benefits from a low center of gravity and a rig that is easy to manage shorthanded, with all control lines led back to a protected helm station.

Handling is further enhanced by the use of Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) for the deck construction, a technique that significantly reduces weight aloft while maintaining structural integrity. On the water, owners report that the Lipari 41 tracks well to windward for a fixed-keel catamaran, provided the sailor maintains sufficient speed to minimize leeway. While it may not match the daggerboard-equipped performance cats in "pointing" ability, its sea-kindliness in a following sea is often cited as a strength, largely due to the buoyancy in the aft sections of the hulls which prevents the bows from burying in swell.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Lipari 41 was a showcase for the "galley-up" layout that has since become a standard in cruising multihulls. This configuration places the galley on the same level as the cockpit, facilitating seamless indoor-outdoor living. The saloon offers 360-degree visibility through large wraparound windows, a feature that was further refined in the "Evolution" variant with the addition of opening portlights in the front windows to improve airflow while at anchor.

Fountaine Pajot offered the model in two primary configurations: the "Maestro" owner’s version and the "Quatuor" charter version. The Maestro version dedicates the entire starboard hull to a master suite, featuring a queen-sized berth, a dedicated study or vanity area, and a large head with a separate shower stall. The Quatuor version provides four double cabins and two heads, maximizing sleeping capacity for families or commercial use. High-authority reviews in Sail Magazine highlight the use of Alpi wood finishes and light-colored upholstery to create a sense of volume that belies the boat's 39-foot-1-inch overall length.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When surveying a pre-owned Lipari 41, buyers should focus on several specific technical areas common to Fountaine Pajot builds of this vintage:

• Saloon Door Tracks: The sliding glass door between the cockpit and the saloon is a high-traffic component. Inspect the tracks for corrosion or misalignment, as the rollers can wear down, making the door difficult to operate or compromise the weather seal.
• Saildrive Diaphragms: Typically powered by twin Volvo Penta D1-20 or D1-30 engines, the saildrive rubber seals (diaphragms) have a manufacturer-recommended replacement interval. Verify the age of these seals, as failure can lead to significant water ingress.
• Escape Hatches: Like many catamarans, the Lipari 41 features escape hatches located near the waterline in each hull. Earlier models experienced issues with the adhesive or frames of these hatches; surveyors often recommend checking for signs of leaking or "crazing" in the acrylic.
• Bridge Deck Slamming: While the Lipari has improved clearance compared to the Lavezzi 40, it is still a relatively low-profile boat. Inspect the underside of the bridge deck for stress cracks or repairs, which may indicate frequent heavy-weather use and hard slamming into head seas.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Lipari 41 benefit from the robust Fountaine Pajot Yacht Club, a manufacturer-sponsored association that provides technical resources and organized rallies. Additionally, the Fountaine Pajot Owners Group serves as a vital technical exchange for maintenance tips, specifically regarding the RTM deck construction and plumbing schematics unique to the Joubert-Nivelt designs.

The Verdict

The Fountaine Pajot Lipari 41 remains one of the most sought-after used catamarans under 42 feet due to its manageable size and proven bluewater capability.

Pros:

• Excellent indoor-outdoor flow with a galley-up design that feels larger than 41 feet.
• Lightweight construction leads to better-than-average light-wind performance.
• The "Evolution" refresh significantly improved ventilation and natural light.

Cons:

• Bridge deck clearance is lower than some modern competitors, leading to noise in choppy conditions.
• Engine compartments can be tight for maintenance on the larger D1-30 engine options.
• Fixed keels limit upwind performance compared to performance-oriented catamarans.