Privilège 740 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Privilège 740 is a heavy-displacement cruiser, weighing in at approximately 44 tons light and upwards of 53 tons fully loaded. This mass, while limiting light-wind performance compared to carbon-fiber performance cats, translates to exceptional sea-kindliness and a "planted" feel in heavy weather. Sailing Magazine, in its assessment of the closely related 745 platform, noted that the hull shape features significant rocker and volume in the stern to prevent squatting under load, a common issue for large cruising multihulls.

The sail plan is substantial, featuring a mainsail of roughly 160 m² and a genoa of 104 m². While the boat tracks with remarkable stability due to its fixed low-aspect-ratio keels, the sheer size of the rig requires sophisticated handling systems. Most 740s are equipped with hydraulic furling and electric winches concentrated at the flybridge helm station. Owners often report that the boat feels most at home in 15–25 knots of breeze, where its momentum allows it to power through chop that would stall lighter vessels. The displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 109 suggests a hull designed for "voyaging" rather than "sprinting," focusing on the comfort of the crew over ultimate top-end speed.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 740, often executed by Darnet Design, is a masterclass in semi-custom luxury. The most notable configuration is the "Owner’s Version," which utilizes the central nacelle to create a full-beam master suite. This layout places the bed on the centerline, providing a view forward over the bows—a rarity in catamaran design.

Sibling variants include a five-cabin layout, often utilized for high-end charter operations, which sacrifices the sprawling master suite for additional guest accommodations. According to the Marc Lombard archives, the 740 also introduced more "flush" deck styling and larger hull windows compared to the 745, significantly increasing natural light in the guest staterooms. Materials typically include high-gloss walnut or oak finishes, with a focus on sound dampening; the shipyard utilizes a proprietary infusion process that creates a monolithic feel, virtually eliminating the "creaks and groans" associated with mass-produced hulls. The galley-down configuration is common, allowing for a massive, unobstructed salon area featuring a professional-grade bar and navigation station.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Privilège 740 and its predecessor have been the subject of several high-profile "blue water" documentaries and walkthroughs. The model is frequently highlighted by The Multihull Company in video case studies as the gold standard for owners transitioning from large monohulls to multihulls for circumnavigation. It has also appeared in various "Ultimate Yacht" features, where it is praised for its "no-compromise" approach to structural integrity, often being contrasted against lighter, more "industrial" catamaran builds.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a used 740 or its predecessor, the 745, should focus on the following technical areas:

• Weight Sensitivity: While designed to carry weight, some hulls have been overloaded with aftermarket gear (jacuzzis, heavy tenders, dive compressors), which can significantly degrade performance and bridge deck clearance. Verify the current "as-sailed" displacement.
• Hydraulic Systems: The complexity of the hydraulic forestays and winches requires meticulous service records. Any hesitation or "whining" from the hydraulic power pack during a survey is a red flag for deferred maintenance.
• Teak Deck Condition: Given the massive deck surface area, the original teak decks on older hulls can be a significant expense if they require sanding or replacement. Inspect for thinning or failing caulking.
• Escape Hatches: As with many large French catamarans, the integrity of the emergency escape hatches in the hulls should be checked for signs of weeping or UV damage to the seals.
• Electronic Integration: The 740 uses sophisticated BUS systems for lighting and power management. Ensure all digital switching systems have been updated and that spare modules are on board.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 740 are primarily served by the Privilège Owners Association, a relatively private but technically active group that facilitates knowledge sharing regarding maintenance and global cruising routes. Technical documentation and original build specs are often archived through the Privilège Marine headquarters in Les Sables-d'Olonne, which remains a vital resource for parts and refit history.

The Verdict

The Privilège 740 is a "category of one" vessel for the sailor who values safety and silence over raw speed. It is a true ocean-crosser that trades the nimble handling of a racing cat for the robust luxury of a motor yacht.

Pros:

• Exceptional structural rigidity and "silent" sailing experience.
• The nacelle-based owner's suite is arguably the best in its class.
• High-end finish quality that holds up well on the brokerage market.
• Massive tankage for genuine transoceanic autonomy.

Cons:

• Heavy displacement makes it sluggish in light winds (under 10 knots).
• High operational complexity requires either an experienced owner-operator or professional crew.
• Significant draft (2.45m) limits access to some shallow-water cruising grounds.