Design and Construction
Outremer focuses on lightweight designs, and the 52 continues that approach. Sister company Gunboat helped reduce structural weight and increase stiffness, including through the use of carbon bulkheads.
The structural weight savings allowed the designers to make the upper parts of the hull slightly wider than those of the 51. They also increased the size of the openings and glass surfaces, including enlarged hull windows that provide panoramic views.
The 52 is slightly heavier than the 51 but carries more sail area. VPLP expects its performance to be similar, if not slightly better.
Diesel engines are standard, although electric propulsion alternatives are already available. The builder claims that because the yacht sails well, its engines will see little use. Outremer is also making increasing use of recycled or recyclable materials.
Rig, Performance, and Handling
The 52 has a fractional-sloop rig with a 96 m² mainsail and 60 m² genoa, plus a 40 m² self-tacking jib. An optional 160 m² gennaker or 209 m² spinnaker is also available.
With a sail-area-to-displacement ratio of 29.25 and a hull speed near 9.6 knots, the design is built for pace. Yachting Monthly notes that Outremer catamarans are light and fast, aimed at performance cruising with double-figure speeds.
The builder is targeting average speeds of 10–12 knots. Outremer CEO Xavier Desmarest has said that 250 miles a day is enough for comfort and performance. The boat holds its averages without demanding constant attention, and the builder describes it as an ideal family-sized fast catamaran for world voyaging.
Mechanical steering provides the sporty feel for which the brand is known. Buyers can choose wheels or tillers—or, uniquely, both—on either side.
Cockpit and Interior
The sea remains in view from both the cockpit and saloon. A full-width glazed panel opens completely, joining the two spaces. Forward visibility is available from the saloon and bar-area seating, while a proper chart table allows the crew to keep watch from inside at night, sheltered without losing contact with the sea. Four opening ports ventilate the saloon.
The interior can have three or four cabins and is offered in three different moods. A configurable utility cabin gives owners several choices: a double cabin; a convertible office with bunk beds; a modular cabin with an office that converts into a workshop, including a folding bench; a dressing room; or a child’s cabin. More broadly, the space can serve as an office, workroom, laundry, or kids’ cabin.
Points to Consider
The main considerations concern the boat’s lightweight design philosophy rather than reported failures. The builder expects the diesel engines to see little use because the boat sails so well, but that remains a manufacturer assertion rather than a measured ownership average.
Verdict
The Outremer 52 is a thoughtfully evolved performance cruiser. It combines the proven hull logic of the 51 with the successful styling of the 55, while improving sightlines, ventilation, and structural efficiency. For a family planning serious offshore mileage at average speeds in the low teens, it’s a compelling modern catamaran.
Pros
- Light, stiff structure, with carbon bulkheads and Gunboat input on weight reduction
- Performance target of 10–12 knots, supported by an extensive sail plan
- Strong connection between cockpit and saloon, with a sheltered night-watch position below
- Flexible cabin planning, including a utility space configurable in five ways
Cons
- The expectation that the diesel engines will see little use is a manufacturer claim, not verified ownership data
