Solitaire 1490 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Solitaire 1490 is defined by its "performance cruiser" DNA, a hallmark of the Schionning design philosophy. Unlike many mass-produced French catamarans that prioritize internal volume at the expense of bridgedeck clearance and weight, the 1490 features high bridgedeck clearance to minimize "slamming" in choppy offshore conditions. This design choice significantly improves sea-kindliness and crew comfort during long passages.

While the provided data does not list specific technical ratios, Schionning designs in this size bracket typically boast a high power-to-weight ratio. According to technical overviews from Pantawee Marine, the use of daggerboards—rather than fixed keels—allows the 1490 to point significantly higher into the wind, often achieving tacking angles comparable to performance monohulls. With the boards retracted, the vessel’s shallow draft permits entry into thin-water anchorages inaccessible to most yachts of this length. Owners often report that the boat "tracks like a train" due to its slender hulls and balanced rig, feeling responsive even in light airs where heavier cruisers would be forced to motor.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Solitaire 1490 is characterized by an airy, open-plan layout that leverages the boat’s 7.8-meter beam. Because Pantawee Marine operates as a custom and semi-custom builder, the internal configurations can vary significantly between hulls. The most common arrangement is a "galley-up" layout, which integrates the galley with the main saloon to create a social hub with 360-degree visibility.

The cabins are typically located in the hulls, with many owners opting for an "Owner’s Version" that dedicates the entire port hull to a master suite, including a large queen-sized berth, a dedicated study or vanity area, and a spacious head with a separate shower. The starboard hull usually houses two guest cabins. Materials used by Pantawee Marine under the supervision of Paul Back focus on a blend of lightweight marine plywood and high-quality timber veneers, balancing the need for a luxury aesthetic with the critical weight requirements of a performance multihull. The Solitaire 1490 is a sibling to the Solitaire 1250 and 1500; the 1490 specifically serves the niche for families or couples who require more storage and waterline length than the 1250 but prefer a more manageable sail plan than the 1500.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned Solitaire 1490 should focus their inspection on the specific nuances of composite construction and custom system integration.

• Core Integrity: Since these vessels are built using vacuum-bagging and composite sandwich techniques, a thorough moisture scan of the hulls and deck is essential. Pay close attention to areas where aftermarket hardware (solar arches, davits) has been installed to ensure the core was properly decored and sealed with epoxy.
• Daggerboard Trunks: Inspect the daggerboard trunks for any signs of impact damage or wear in the sacrificial bearings. The boards should move freely; any binding could indicate hull deformation or internal trunk issues.
• System Customization: Because Pantawee Marine builds to international ABYC and CE standards, the baseline wiring and plumbing are generally excellent. However, many Solitaires are outfitted for long-term off-grid cruising. A buyer’s checklist should include a full audit of the lithium battery banks, solar controllers, and watermakers, which may have been modified by previous owners.
• Rudder Bearings: Performance catamarans place significant stress on rudders at high speeds. Check for "play" in the helm and inspect the bushings for wear, a common maintenance item on Schionning-designed boats.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Solitaire 1490 benefit from a robust, albeit niche, support network. The most prominent resource is the Schionning Owners Group, a dedicated community of builders and sailors who share technical advice on sail plans, composite repairs, and performance tuning. Additionally, Pantawee Marine maintains a presence in Thailand and offers support for vessels they have constructed, leveraging their decades of experience with the Schionning series.

The Verdict

The Solitaire 1490 is a connoisseur’s catamaran, offering a level of sailing engagement and build quality rarely found in the charter-dominated multihull market. It is an ideal vessel for the experienced sailor moving from a performance monohull who refuses to accept the sluggish handling of a standard cruising cat.

Pros:

• Exceptional Speed: Capable of double-digit speeds in moderate breeze.
• High-Quality Build: Constructed to ABYC/CE standards by a family-owned yard with deep expertise.
• Shallow Draft: Daggerboards allow for versatile cruising in areas like the Bahamas or Thailand’s islands.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Modern, sleek lines that stand out in a sea of "bubble" shaped catamarans.

Cons:

• Weight Sensitivity: Performance degrades quickly if the boat is overloaded with excessive cruising gear.
• Complexity: Daggerboards and performance rigs require more active management than fixed-keel cruisers.
• Niche Market: Resale may take longer as the boat appeals to a specific subset of performance-oriented buyers.