Nautitech 395 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The hallmark of the Nautitech 395 is its dual-helm configuration, a design choice that places the skipper on the outboard aft quarters of each hull. This arrangement provides an unobstructed view of the sails and the horizon, fostering a physical connection to the water often lost in bridge-deck or flybridge designs. While this placement leaves the helm exposed to the elements compared to a protected cockpit, it significantly reduces the complexity of steering linkages, resulting in a more direct and responsive feel at the wheel.

With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the lighter side of the cruising spectrum for its era, the 395 is noted for its ability to point higher into the wind than many of its high-volume competitors. Owners often report that the boat begins to "wake up" in as little as 8 to 10 knots of true wind, maintaining a balanced helm thanks to its well-proportioned sail plan. The boat typically carries a large roach mainsail and a functional genoa, though many have been retrofitted with bowsprits for Code 0 or asymmetric spinnakers to bolster light-wind performance. The bridge deck clearance is generous for a vessel of this length, which minimizes the "slapping" or "pounding" in choppy seas, a common complaint in catamarans with lower clearances.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Nautitech 395 reflects the functional elegance of French multihull design from the late 90s and early 2000s. The saloon is characterized by a panoramic 360-degree view, a feature that was quite advanced for its time. The galley is typically located "up" in the saloon, allowing the cook to remain part of the social activity while providing excellent ventilation through forward-opening hatches.

Nautitech offered the 395 in two primary configurations: the "Owner’s Version" and the "Charter Version." The Owner’s Version dedicates the entire starboard hull to a master suite, featuring a large double berth aft, a dedicated desk or vanity midships, and an expansive head compartment forward with a separate shower stall. The Charter Version (also known as the 4-cabin version) utilizes a symmetrical layout with two cabins and one shared head in each hull. The woodwork is typically finished in light Alpi wood or cherry veneers, which, combined with the large windows, prevents the "tunnel" feeling often associated with narrower catamaran hulls. The 395 also shared a design lineage with the Nautitech 435, which offered a similar aesthetic and hull philosophy on a larger scale.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus on several specific technical areas inherent to the 395’s age and construction methods. While the hulls are robustly built using vacuum-bagging techniques, the following areas require scrutiny:

• Rudder Bearings and Linkages: Because the twin helm stations rely on a cross-link system (typically cables or rods), any play in the steering should be investigated. Rudder bearings on boats of this vintage are known to wear, leading to a stiff or "clunky" helm.
• Sail Drive Seals: Most 395s were equipped with Volvo Penta or Yanmar engines utilizing sail drives. It is critical to verify the age of the rubber diaphragm seals; if they are older than seven years, they are due for replacement.
• Portlight Sealing: The large, wraparound windows in the saloon are iconic but can be prone to crazing or seal failure over decades of UV exposure. Check for evidence of water ingress on the interior woodwork around the window perimeters.
• Balsa Core Integrity: Like many French builds of this era, the decks may contain balsa coring. Use a phenolic hammer to tap-test the deck around high-load fittings (cleats and stanchions) to check for delamination or soft spots caused by improper hardware bedding.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Nautitech 395 benefit from a dedicated community of multihull enthusiasts. Technical support and historical documentation are often shared through the Nautitech Owners Association, a group that maintains a presence on various independent sailing platforms. While the model is no longer in production, its parts and engineering are well-understood by technicians in major catamaran hubs like La Rochelle and the Caribbean.

The Verdict

The Nautitech 395 remains a highly sought-after model on the brokerage market for sailors who refuse to compromise performance for volume. It is a capable blue-water cruiser that rewards a light touch and an active hand at the helm.

Pros:

• Superior visibility and "feel" from the twin aft helm stations.
• Excellent bridge deck clearance reduces slamming in heavy seas.
• A true performance-to-comfort ratio that favors actual sailing.
• Timeless aesthetic that avoids the "boxy" look of modern high-volume cats.

Cons:

• Exposed helm positions offer less protection from rain and spray.
• Narrower hulls mean less interior storage compared to "condo-cats" like the Lagoon 380.
• Twin engine and helm systems mean doubled maintenance for steering components.