Outremer 50/55 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

At the heart of the Outremer 50/55 performance profile is its displacement-to-length ratio, which is significantly lower than its contemporary competitors from mass-production yards. This lightness, paired with a powerful fractional rig, allows the boat to remain nimble in light airs and maintain high average speeds in heavy weather. Owners frequently report sustained double-digit speeds, with the boat comfortably reaching 15–20 knots in the right conditions.

The handling is defined by the use of daggerboards. When lowered, they provide the 50/55 with windward ability comparable to a performance monohull, minimizing the "leeway" that plagues many cruising catamarans. When raised, the boat can slide over breaking waves in a storm or enter shallow anchorages unavailable to fixed-keel vessels. A unique signature of the Danson-era Outremers is the steering configuration; while many were equipped with a traditional bulkhead wheel, several hulls feature dual aft tillers with bucket seats. This setup provides a visceral, dinghy-like connection to the rudders, offering feedback that is almost entirely lost in hydraulic systems. Editorial analysis from Multihulls World suggests that the 55-foot version offers a smoother ride in a following sea, as the extended "sugar scoops" provide extra buoyancy aft to prevent the sterns from digging in under high-speed surfing.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike the "apartment on the water" feel of modern cats, the interior of the Outremer 50/55 is functional and purposeful. Because the hulls are kept narrow to reduce drag, the cabins are narrower than those found on a Lagoon or Fountaine Pajot of similar length. The bridgedeck saloon is typically reserved for a galley, a navigation station, and a seating area with panoramic views, though the headroom and floor space are modest by today's standards.

There are two primary interior variations: the "Club" version and the "Owner" version. The Club layout generally features four cabins and two or four heads, making it popular for charter or large families. The Owner version dedicates one entire hull to a suite, including a larger head and dedicated storage or office space. The cabinetry is often finished in light woods or white laminates to maximize the sense of space. While the finish is robust and built for the rigors of salt-air exposure, it lacks the high-gloss luxury of modern performance-cruisers like the newer Outremer 52. Sibling models built on this design DNA include the smaller Outremer 45 (the model that won the Transat des Passionnés) and the flagship Outremer 64, which scaled the 50/55's narrow-hull concept to a maxi-cruiser format.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Outremer 50/55 should focus their inspections on the specific stresses associated with high-performance multihulls:

• Weight Management: The most common "issue" isn't a factory defect but owner-induced. These boats are extremely sensitive to weight. Overloading them with heavy generators, washing machines, and extensive dive gear will bury the slim hulls, killing the very performance that defines the model. Inspect the waterline to see if the boat is sitting significantly lower than its original design.
• Daggerboard Trunks: The daggerboard cases are high-stress areas. Inspect for any signs of "star crazing" or structural cracking around the trunks, which can occur if the boards were struck while down or if the bearings have worn thin.
• Bulkhead Integrity: Given the boat's age and its tendency to be sailed hard, a thorough survey of the structural bulkheads is mandatory. Look for signs of movement or tabbing detachment where the bulkheads meet the hulls, particularly in the forward sections.
• Osmosis and Core Condition: While Outremer's construction quality is generally high, these boats used balsa or foam cores in the decks and topsides. Professional moisture testing is required to ensure no water ingress has occurred around stanchions or deck hardware.
• Rigging Loads: Because these boats are stiff (they don't heel to dissipate wind energy), the standing rigging and chainplates take significant loads. Most 50/55 models on the market will require a full standing rigging replacement if it has not been performed in the last decade.

Community & Resources

Owners of these legacy models are supported by a dedicated community that revolves around the Outremer shipyard's continued engagement with its heritage. The "Outremer Cup," an annual regatta held in the South of France, frequently sees Danson-era 50s and 55s competing alongside the newest models, providing a venue for technical exchange. While there is no standalone "Outremer 50 Association," the brand’s official community portal and the Grand Large Yachting services network provide access to original drawings and technical support for refits.

The Verdict

The Outremer 50/55 is a "sailor’s catamaran" that trades interior volume for raw ocean-crossing capability. It is an ideal choice for an experienced couple or family who prioritizes the ability to outrun weather systems and enjoy the sensation of speed over the luxuries of a wide-body cruiser.

Pros:

• Exceptional Speed: Capable of high daily averages (200+ nautical miles) that reduce time spent at sea.
• Windward Ability: Daggerboards allow for pointing angles that fixed-keel catamarans cannot match.
• Robust Construction: Built during a period where Gérard Danson personally oversaw the structural integrity of every hull.
• Resale Value: Due to their cult status and the limited number of high-performance legacy cats, they hold their value remarkably well.

Cons:

• Narrow Living Quarters: The hulls are cramped compared to modern 50-footers, particularly in the berths and heads.
• Weight Sensitivity: Requires a disciplined approach to provisioning and equipment.
• Aged Systems: Many units will require significant investment in electronics, lithium power upgrades, and sail wardrobe to meet modern cruising standards.