Sailing Performance & Handling
The 5X is widely regarded by marine journalists as a "driver's boat," a rarity in the luxury catamaran segment. Its defining performance characteristic is the use of deep, retractable daggerboards, which provide exceptional lift and allow the boat to point much higher into the wind than fixed-keel competitors. When the boards are raised, the reduced draft of just 3' 11" enables the vessel to enter shallow anchorages or safely "skid" sideways down large waves in heavy weather.
The steering system offers a unique dual-modality: while the primary helm station provides a protected environment for long watches, the 5X is famous for its optional twin carbon tillers with bucket seats on the aft end of each hull. This setup, often highlighted in Sail Magazine reviews, allows the helmsman to feel the boat's balance directly, mimicking the tactile feedback of a performance monohull. With a Sail Area/Displacement ratio that sits comfortably in the performance tier, the 5X is capable of sailing at wind speed in light airs and frequently clocks sustained speeds in the high teens or low twenties during offshore sprints.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the 5X reflects a "less is more" philosophy that avoids the heavy cabinetry found in traditional cruisers to preserve speed. However, this does not come at the expense of luxury. The bridge deck features a 360-degree panoramic view, integrating the galley, salon, and navigation station into a single, fluid living space. The use of lightweight Alpi wood and composite structures maintains the boat's performance integrity while providing a modern, airy aesthetic.
The 5X was primarily offered in two configurations. The "Owner’s Version" dedicates the entire starboard hull to a master suite, featuring a king-sized berth, a dedicated desk/office area, and a spacious head with a separate walk-in shower. The "Club Version" or "Charter" layout utilizes a four-cabin arrangement, with two guest cabins and two heads in each hull. A rare "Great Circle" edition was also marketed, which optimized the vessel for specific long-distance racing and cruising requirements, often featuring more extensive carbon fiber options and weight-optimized finishes.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Outremer 5X has been a darling of the international yachting press since its debut, earning the prestigious European Yacht of the Year award in the Luxury Cruiser category in 2013. It also secured "Boat of the Year" honors from Cruising World magazine in the United States. Beyond awards, the model gained significant visibility through the voyages of high-profile owners; notably, the 5X "La Caravelle" became well-known in the Mediterranean and Caribbean racing circuits for proving that a well-sailed cruising cat could compete with dedicated racing platforms in events like the ARC (Atlantic Rally for Cruisers).
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a pre-owned 5X should focus their due diligence on the high-load systems inherent to a high-performance catamaran.
- Daggerboard Trunks: Inspect the daggerboard trunks and the boards themselves for evidence of impact or wear on the sacrificial bearing strips. Any "thumping" while sailing off the wind can indicate worn bearings.
- Carbon Rigging: Many 5X models were equipped with carbon fiber masts and Kevlar or carbon standing rigging. This rigging has a finite lifespan and requires specialized ultrasonic testing or replacement every 5 to 10 years, depending on the manufacturer's specs.
- Electrical Management: Because the 5X is often used for remote cruising, the lithium-ion battery banks and complex power management systems (often Mastervolt or Victron) should be audited to ensure they have been properly balanced and maintained.
- Trampoline Tension: Check the attachment points for the forward trampolines. On a boat this fast, the trampolines endure significant hydraulic pressure when punching through waves, and any fatigue in the lacing or hull eyes should be addressed immediately.
Community & Resources
Outremer owners benefit from one of the most robust manufacturer-supported communities in the world. The Grand Large Yachting group organizes the "Outremer Cup," an annual regatta and training event in La Grande-Motte, France, where owners can receive technical training and sail alongside the factory’s professional skippers. Technical resources are also centralized through the "Outremer Academy," which provides specific curriculum on blue water maintenance and performance tuning for the 5X platform.
The Verdict
The Outremer 5X is a uncompromising choice for the experienced sailor who refuses to trade sailing pleasure for living volume. It is a sophisticated machine that requires active management but rewards the effort with unmatched passage-making speeds and a high degree of safety.
Pros
- Exceptional upwind performance for a catamaran due to deep daggerboards.
- Tactile tiller steering provides a genuine "sailing" feel.
- High-quality French construction with a focus on weight discipline and structural integrity.
- Excellent resale value and a dedicated community of performance-minded owners.
Cons
- The high-performance rig and daggerboards require more active management than a standard cruising cat.
- Higher maintenance costs associated with specialized carbon components and racing-grade hardware.
- Limited interior volume compared to "condo-cats" of a similar length.
