Sailing Performance & Handling
The Outremer 55 is engineered to perform at a level that disrupts the traditional trade-off between cruising comfort and racing speed. With a light displacement of approximately 13.5 tonnes and a generous sail plan of 172 square meters upwind, the boat possesses a high power-to-weight ratio that allows it to sail at or near wind speed in light conditions. Its daggerboards are a critical component of its handling repertoire, providing the lateral resistance necessary to point higher than almost any production cruising catamaran, often tacking through 90 degrees or less.
A standout feature is the "swing helm" system. This innovative steering arrangement allows the helm wheels to be positioned in two distinct locations: tilted up onto the coachroof for a clear view of the sails and the horizon, or lowered into the cockpit for protection under the bimini during inclement weather. For purists, the boat is frequently equipped with optional carbon fiber tillers on the aft quarters, which utilize bucket seats to provide a dinghy-like steering sensation and immediate tactile feedback from the rudders.
According to sea trials conducted by Yachting World, the 55's ability to maintain double-digit speeds in moderate breezes makes it a genuine "mile-eater." The handling is noted for its balance; the VPLP-designed hulls are slender below the waterline to minimize drag but feature a flared "knuckle" above the waterline to increase buoyancy and prevent the bows from burying when pressed hard downwind.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Unlike the more industrial aesthetics of older Outremer models, the 55’s interior is a study in weight-conscious luxury. Darnet Design focused on "fluidity," creating a seamless transition from the cockpit to the saloon. The galley is central to this concept, featuring a large island that serves as both a food preparation area and a social hub. To save weight, the furniture is constructed using foam-core panels with thin wood veneers, and the overheads are often finished in light fabrics to enhance the sense of space.
The boat is offered in several configurations, most notably a three-cabin "Owner" version and a four-cabin version for larger families. A unique hallmark of the 55 is the "My Free Space" concept located in the forward port hull. This area is customizable and can be configured as a dedicated office, a workshop for long-term cruisers, a bunk room for children, or even a walk-in dressing room. The visibility from the saloon is nearly 360 degrees, thanks to vertical windows that also minimize the "greenhouse effect" in tropical climates. The sibling model, the Outremer 52, follows this same design language but on a slightly smaller platform, while the older 5X remains the choice for those requiring a 60-foot footprint and even higher top-end speeds.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Outremer 55 has garnered significant international acclaim since its debut, most notably winning the prestigious European Yacht of the Year 2022 in the Performance Cruiser category. It also secured the British Yachting Award for Multihull of the Year. In the digital sphere, the model has been popularized by high-profile voyages documented on YouTube; "The Sailing Frenchman" (Aurélien Poncin) provided extensive coverage of the boat's capabilities during delivery trips and technical trials, showcasing its ability to maintain 20+ knot speeds in offshore conditions.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
While the Outremer 55 is a high-end build, potential buyers and current owners should monitor specific technical areas common to high-performance multihulls:
- Load Monitoring: Because the 55 is built of light composites and uses high-modulus rigging, it does not "heel" to shed wind pressure like a monohull. Buyers should ensure the load-sensing pins (if equipped) are calibrated correctly to avoid over-stressing the rig in heavy gusts.
- Daggerboard Trunks: Inspect the daggerboard trunks for wear on the sacrificial bearing strips. If the boards are not raised and lowered properly, or if they are left down in shallow water, the trunks can suffer stress cracking.
- Electronic Integration: The 55 utilizes a complex digital switching system (often CZone or similar) to manage power. Prospective buyers should verify that all software updates are current and that there are no "ghost loads" draining the lithium battery bank.
- Weight Discipline: The performance of this boat is highly sensitive to weight. A common issue is "equipment creep," where owners add heavy generators, dive compressors, and oversized tenders, which can significantly degrade the boat's ability to bridge the waves and sail in light air.
Community & Resources
Owners of the Outremer 55 gain access to a robust ecosystem designed for blue water preparation. The Grand Large Services arm of the parent company provides dedicated technical support, refit facilities, and training. Furthermore, the "Outremer Academy" offers specific courses in catamaran handling, weather routing, and diesel mechanics. The most significant community event is the "Outremer Cup," an annual rally in the Mediterranean where owners compete in a friendly racing environment and share technical knowledge.
The Verdict
The Outremer 55 is a benchmark for the modern "fast cruiser," successfully bridging the gap between a spartan racing machine and a heavy liveaboard.
Pros:
- Exceptional Speed: Capable of daily averages exceeding 250 nautical miles.
- Ergonomic Innovation: The swing-helm and modular interior provide unmatched flexibility.
- Upwind Ability: Deep daggerboards allow for sailing angles that most catamarans cannot achieve.
- Resale Value: Strong brand prestige and limited production runs maintain high market demand.
Cons:
- Complexity: Advanced systems and high-tech rigging require a more skilled operator than a standard charter cat.
- Price: Significant premium over volume-built catamarans of similar length.
- Weight Sensitivity: Requires strict discipline regarding onboard stores and equipment to maintain performance.
