tahini 51 catamaran

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Please note: these building plans now include Design Improvement Package 2 as standard, which gives improved centre deck details, Tiki style I-section crossbeams, and crossbeam lashing details.

The TEHINI is breathtakingly beautiful. She has a timeless look about her and dominates any harbour with her rakish, piratical looking lines. James built this boat as his own and spent 10 years living on her with five others.

These Plans include design modifications for Tehini Mk II. These comprise improved accommodation space with raised decks, increased overall beam, added centreboards (optional), increased sail area and various other additional details.

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Wharram Tahini 51′ Ocean Going Catamaran

Advertised on March 2, 2021

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LOA 51′ Beam 26′ Ply / Epoxy a semi-professionally built designer approved modified Wharram Tehini. She is strongly built from Douglas Fir and BS 1088 marine plywood, sheathed with the WEST epoxy system and painted with Epifanes 2-part poly-urethane paint.

She is bermudan ketch rigged with hollow Sitka Spruce masts. The forestays are 1×19 stainless steel. All running rigging is by Marlow. Each hull consists of 5 cabins with 4 watertight bulkheads. The forward cabin in each hull is a single berth/sail storage cabin, accessible from the deck hatch; followed by a double berth cabin accessible from the deck hatch and from the main cabin. The central cabin has full standing headroom (for 6′ 4” person!) with the galley and dinette in the port hull and the chart table, work bench and seating in the starboard hull. Aft of the central cabin is a double berth cabin accessible from the deck hatch and main cabin. The aft cabin in the port hull has a shower and new porta loo and the sea loo ( Blake’s of Gosport, with bronze pumps and ceramic bowl) is in the starboard hull.

Fantastic ocean-going catamaran. It has been to the Canary Islands (with no engine) and made speeds up to 18 knots. This is a proven world cruising boat currently near the end of a complete restoration. It is currently set up with the port hull having a very large double berth, with new covered foam and with storage underneath and in a compartment at the bow end. Leading to a dining area (folding table) that seats four (new foam covered). This goes into the gallery which has a double gas burner stove, sink and lots of storage (cutlery and pots and pans included) with an underfloor 250 litre flexible water tank. Then through a bulkhead to the big after cabin which can be a double berth but is currently set up as food and misc storage. It’s got a small fridge in it actually.

There’s a big 19kg gas bottle for the galley stove plumbed in and secured on deck on the back of the main port cabin. There’s a spare bottle to go on the starboard side too. The mounting bracket is made, just needs screwing on.

The starboard hull has a double berth at the rear, with new covered foam and with big storage below and in a compartment at the stern. This cabin goes through to a large saloon with comfortable seating for four. there one side then as a workbench with additional sink opposite that is a big chart table and the instruments these are NASA navtex and NASA AIS NASA wind NASA echo and a Standard Horizon 1700 DSC VHF, the front cabin is open for miscellaneous storage but can have boards put in and be a large double berth with storage underneath.

Both double berths have an easily moved, canvas light deflector false ceiling. Helps keep it cool in the summer and warm in the winter. There is a hatch above. Both berths have new foam, covered by tough nylon. They are divided into four cushions for easy handling, coloured red and yellow. Beneath them is de-luxe anti condensation web matting.

The doghouse has wheel steering and adjacent c-map Standard Horizon chart plotter and NASA wind repeater, NASA close hauled indicator and NASA echos sounder repeater plus the Raytheon autopilot display and control. The port hull also has a NASA wind repeater and the Standard Horizon chart plotter can plug in there too (for the anchor watch alarm when you are sleeping). There is a masthead NASA tri colour and all round white and navigation lights on the doghouse. There’s a VHF aerial atop both the masts, the main is connected to the VHF and the mizzen for the AIS (the idea is, that this can be easily unplugged to work as an emergency VHF aerial). The chart plotter, VHF, wind and navtex are all operational. The AIS is currently disconnected. There is an extra VHF repeater/remote station to operate in the dog house which hasn’t been connected yet. The wind Repeater in the port hull is operational but the doghouse wind repeaters are not installed yet and nor is the echo sounder repeater.

There are two service batteries and two engine starter batteries in lockers in the doghouse and there’s a shore power hook-up (with a wired in smart charger) and the shore power feeds has two double 240v sockets with double usb sockets in each hull.

The wheel has been amended to accommodate the new Raytheon P70s Pilot self-steering which hasn’t been fully installed yet but it’s all there, and it will allow the boat to be sailed to a compass course, or by using the wind direction (NEMA interface with the NASA wind).

There’s a new huge flexible solar panel that’s ready to go on top of the doghouse there is also a new Rutland 316 wind generator to go on a small mast on the stern of the port hull.

There’s a Firdell Blipper 210-7 mounter on a bracket on the mizzen mast.

Rather than a giant net in the space between the hull on the stern behind doghouse, on the starboard side is a huge aluminium (scaffold tube) ladder/platform that is easily lowered for beach access or for easy man overboard recovery. It’s also wide enough to put an inflatable tender on, (when sailing, with it raised, it’d be easy to have the tender tethered to this).

In the middle of this area, underneath the mizzen boom, is an almost complete new aluminium (scaffold tube) ladder/platform for easy working there. It includes a rack to take the old Topaz sailing dinghy (easily demounted, two part mast) that is complete and included in the sale.

The port aft cabin has a new chemical toilet and shower tray (we use a solar shower) with a pump. It also stores a selection of large fenders in it.

The Starboard aft cabin has a traditional sea toilet ( Blake’s of Gosport, with bronze pumps and ceramic bowl) and is currently used for miscellaneous storage.

The forward starboard cabin is currently a sail locker for the large selection of sails including a brand new mizzen sail.

The port forward cabin has a huge amount of spare ropes and netting a couple of body boards, room for an inflatable tender (and we store two folding bikes and two inflatable SUP’s which aren’t included in the sale in there).

The engine is just being fitted, it’s a 25 horsepower Tohatsu 4-stroke injection long shaft but has a central mounting pod it lifts up into (with trailer winch), it has new remote control, and rev counter, to go in the doghouse (where the starter batteries are, it has an alternator and will charge that bank). There are two new big fuel tanks.

She has a big 45Lb CQR near the bow with least 50m of 10mm anchor chain, there’s an arrangement to bring the line up so it pulls from the middle of the hulls, rather than straight down from the mast, so it doesn’t foul the hulls. There’s a big manual windlass as well. There’s also kedge Danforth mounted on a custom wood fitting on a starboard stern hull. Lots of other anchor line is on-board.

There are 12-volt LED lights and electrics with USB plugs plug-in points all round with fused switchboards in each hull and the doghouse. There are red night lights in the doghouse, galley and saloon/navigation area.

Build started about 2001, she was launched about 2010 and sailed off about 2012 down to the Canaries and Cape Verde Islands with no engine.

She’s been ashore in Yanyslas Boatyard (www.ynyslasboatyard.co.uk), where she was completed and launched, since 2016 where the rebuild has been taking place.

The crane in yard is not big enough to launch her. The plan is to get a low loader lorry to reverse under her, and jack her onto the lorries platform (or use the lorries air suspension to lift her). Then drive it a few hundred yards to the slip, at low water, and leave it there for the tide to float off.

Personal injury (severe hernia) has now made this project too much to finish and hence she’s up for sale she’s been Joton antifouled (there’s enough there for another two coats at least). The mizzen has been re rigged and there’s stainless steel wires to re-rig the main as well.

Lots of spares included in the sale.

She has to be seen to be believed, but there’s the rub, she’s “stuck” in Ynyslas with COVID restrictions. I wish I’d been locked down there and able to complete her! I don’t know how you’d view her or whatever but if you’re interested please get in touch. I have lots of photos from her early life, not so many with the modifications on, but just ask.

Realistically priced to sell, I’ve not put her in at 40,000 ready to give a reduction to 35,000. it’s £35,000, no offers please. Contact me, [email protected] for some photographs and video I have, not terribly recent, but the best i can do.

Very reasonable yard fees and a great location from which to explore Wales from. Right by Snowdonia, we’ve enjoyed it more than a caravan. There are lovely beaches and swimming as well as fun in the sailing dinghy. Hinterlands (Netflix crime drama) was filmed in the area. 

Current Price: £35000.00

This Wharram Tahini 51′ Ocean Going Catamaran boat is located in Borth, SY24 *** and is being sold on eBay by sandridge86.

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Outremer 51

Outremer 51 Owner’s Review: Archer

A big thank you to  Seth  Hynes from the Sailing Family for his insights into Archer: his Outremer 51 in our  catamaran owner´s reviews  section. There is some great information here for anyone who is thinking about buying one of these blue water  Outremer Catamarans  now or in the future.

Seth and Elizabeth have now sold Archer (Seth is now working for HH Catamarans), but this interview remains a great guide to the Outremer 51.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your boat:

My name is Seth Hynes. Two years ago my wife, Elizabeth, and I bought “Archer,” a second hand 2014 Outremer 51 “owner’s version” performance cruising catmaran. We are currently sailing around the world with our three boys. What follows is a detailed review of the pros and the cons for this boat. Please note we are not sponsored by Outremer and this is an honest account of what we’ve found.

Why did you choose the Outremer 51?

Simply put, we think this is the perfect family cruising boat. She’s an example of three decades of learning being put into one vessel with the simple design brief of “being able to sail around the world multiple times safely and reliably, with outstanding performance and comfort.” This boat features a quality build standard and performance metric not normally found in the Catamaran category. Furthermore, she’s backed by one of the best post-sales customer service departments in the industry. We couldn’t be happier with our purchase.

When was she launched?

She was launched in 2013 as one of the newer 51 foot models (15 meters). This was the year that Outremer lengthened the stern of of their 49 foot model, redesigned the interior and improved weight savings through the build process. While the 49′ was a great boat, they only made it better with the launch of the 51′.

What’s the best thing about her?

Sailing Performance. We have been delighted with how well this boat sails at all angles. We cruise comfortably at 9-10 knots and use a 215 nautical mile average as our ‘safe’ planning distance. We point as well as most cruising monohulls and we blast by them on a beam reach or a run. Our top sustained boat speed was a downwind run between Fakarava and Tahiti where we had the boat comfortably sailing 19 knots sustained (I think we were sailing at the same speed as the waves and the effect was one of flat seas in the middle of the Pacific Ocean). This is the boat that will lure a serious monohull lover over to the ‘dark side’ of catamaran appreciation.

What would you change, if anything?

Head room! Ha Ha… That’s a little unfair as I’m 6’4″ (193cm), but the saloon roof is a little short on the port and starboard sides. I can stand up in the middle, but near the steps down to the hulls I routinely hit my head. For the most part I can stand up everywhere, but in that particular area I wish it was slightly higher.

What are the “Must Have” Options buying new in your opinion?

The boat comes pretty stocked already, but the must haves are definitely the tiller and tiller seat options (this is kind of the brand’s DNA and I would think an Outremer without them would have a harder time selling on the used market) – besides, they’re also great fun and an excellent safety backup. Our boat also boasts a protected helm seat, which is an excellent option if you like to sit at the helm in inclement weather as we do.

What are the “Nice to Have Options”?

Nice to have options include a Carbon Rotating Mast (which I would only get if you are considering racing competitively or find yourself frequently sailing in light air). Similarly, Carbon Fiber sails or a Park Avenue Boom seem like overkill to me on a what is really a cruising cat, but if you have the money and don’t mind replacing them sooner, then go for it! We also have the carbon fiber reinforced longeron upgrade which allows for a self-tacking staysail, which is really helpful in achieving those tight upwind sailing angles.

Which options are not worth bothering with?

Most owners skip installing a Generator and a Washing Machine because of the additional weight and fear of increased complexity and maintenance. The efficiency of Solar energy and Lipo batteries really makes a generator unnecessary these days, so I would recommend skipping these options unless you plan to sail in the higher latitudes or expect poor weather for long periods of time.

How are the electrics, plumbing etc

The electrical and plumbing systems are top notch, as you would expect from this builder. We’ve had the usual issues that all boats have with pumps failing and filters getting clogged, but this is more a boating issue than an Outremer one.

Is she easy to maintain? Servicing engines, standing rigging etc

Yes. Some catamarans have the engines under the stern bunks, but on the Outremer the engines are easily accessible via the transom. I had to change a fuel filter leaving Puerto Rico and it was nice to be in and out of the engine room within 4-5 minutes. Access and working room around the engines are outstanding and we didn’t even need to stop the boat. All running rigging is visible with nothing below decks and there are multiple halyard redundancies, oversized winches and all lines are dynema cored. Even the lifelines are dynema.

Is she easy to sail short-handed? To shorten sail?

Given her size (hull and rig) and the associated loads, I would say this boat can be single handed but is really designed for a sailing couple to manage. That said, on a light wind day one competent sailor could manage it alone (if your insurance lets you!). All running rigging leads back to the cockpit and there are more than enough winches to simultaneously ease the halyard and furl in the reef, but two people helping is more ideal. Just being honest.

What’s she like in heavy weather / a blow / big seas

Unfortunately we have some experience here. Compared to our last condo-maran, the Outremer is incredibly stable, especially on a reach or a run. Her extended bows and 24′ beam create a much flatter sailing platform and the raised bridgedeck eliminates a lot of the slamming that most cruising cats experience. But compared to a displacement craft like a monohull, she still hobbyhorses more when sailing into the wind and waves. This is further compounded by her speed capability and the captain needs to decide how much speed should be sacrificed for comfort heading upwind in rough conditions. Meanwhile, going downwind is a charm. We saw 40 knots of sustained wind in the aptly named windward passage between Haiti and Cuba, and the boat was so efficient we found ourselves comfortably cruising downwind at 10 knots with bare poles. The speed capability of this boat really changes the way you look at cruising and it’s hard not to get overly confident in your abilities.

How is the helm position?

The helm can be controlled from four different positions: the carbon-fiber wheel at the helm seat, the two carbon-fiber tillers and the forward facing navigation table. On our boat, the helm seat is very well protected with a dodger and bimini installed by Outremer. It’s a little exposed from the Starboard side where no panel exists, but you could install one if you so desired.

How does she sail in light winds?

Lighter air is where this boat really shines versus its heavier competitors (think Catana, Balance and Seawind). The Outremer is the lightest of this category with the most aggressive sail plan, and as a result we RARELY find ourselves motoring. In fact, light air sailing is our favorite type of cruising because the seas are flat but the boat still maintains a decent boat speed. It’s a major feature that cannot be overlooked.

How does she sail close hauled?

As mentioned above, with the Staysail option and the use of the standard daggerboards, our boat can sail upwind as well as any cruising monohull. We typically find our best VMG around a 42 degree apparent wind angle which translates into a ~60 degree track upwind. That’s pretty amazing given all the compromises you make buying a catamaran versus a monohull. Any catamaran that claims better is either made of carbon fiber or is exaggerating.

Typically, what’s your average speed on passage?

We look to sail at a sustained ~9 knot average speed, equaling 215 nautical mile days. Remember, our young boys are aboard so this is sailing conservatively (we like to maintain a 10-11 knot average during daylight hours and then slow the boat down with a precautionary reef at night).

What’s she like under power? Speed, manouevrability?

Very balanced. This boat was designed to be sailed at speed and the daggerboards and rudders are appropriately sized to handle the conditions. The rig is also in the right place and we experience very little to no weather helm when using the mechanical tillers (which provide direct feedback).

Is she easy to dock, what’s the visibility like?

Docking is not necessarily the easiest thing to do on this boat, although that may be a personal issue! However when compared to our last boat the extended bows add a lot of freeboard and windage, which makes docking in tight spaces difficult in a breeze. We also need to lower our daggerboards or we find ourselves sliding sideways too easily, so it is a new process we’ve had to manage learning. Needless to say, we prefer to anchor!

What is she like on the hook?

We find the boat pure joy on the hook. We’ve frequently had other families visiting us for a week or more with plenty of space. The rear cockpit is one of the largest in her class and our outside table seats 10 people comfortably (that’s just not possible on any monohull I’ve ever seen). Obviously a 50 foot “condomaran” with a fly bridge and a bow sofa area might be more comfortable, but we feel the tradeoff for a truly bluewater boat is worth it.

Is she comfortable down below? Cabins/saloon/galley/heads.

The Outremer is very comfortable down below, but it’s not going to win the award for spaciousness against a boat designed for the Charter market. The hulls are intentionally skinny, because skinny is fast, but they’re wide enough for queen size berths and plenty of closets. It’s also quite visible that this boat is robustly built because there are tight bulkhead openings, which I view as a real plus. It scares me to see the large openings in the competitive boats as bulkheads are a key element of rigid boat design. I feel the Outremer has balanced comfort with build quality and speed quite well.

How is the finish of the interior? Does she creak under sail?

The joinery fit and finish is top of its class. Yes, you can find better woodwork in a Hinkley, but Outremer does an outstanding job for the catamaran category. This is evident under-sail where almost no noise comes from the floors or the furniture, something that cannot be said about our last catamaran.

Is she good for hosting guests?

As discussed above, yes, excellent. It would help to have the four cabin charter version, but for our family the three cabin layout is preferred.

What kind of modifications have you done and why?

We added more solar to the bimini, which seems like a logical thing to do given the low cost and added benefit of extra power, especially with five people aboard. We also turned the guest shower into a standing closet and added a 12 volt freezer, allowing us to keep frozen foods longer. That’s all we’ve done.

Any plans for further customisation?If you were to swap her for another boat, what would that be?

As the saying goes, “the best boat is the one you have!” If you’re thinking about going cruising, just make it happen and enjoy the boat you have. Yes, we love our boat, but we’re no happier than our neighbors in a 30 year old monohull. Just get out there and go sailing!

How is the after sales service from Outremer?

I’m glad you asked, because we have been amazed at the support from Outremer. Although we are second hand owners, Outremer treats us like we bought the boat from them a couple weeks ago. Sure, the warranty is gone, but they have a dedicated owner phone number and email that they respond to within 12 hours, even on weekends! They also manage an “owner’s group” on Facebook where everyone can share ideas and get feedback from the brand. And recently, we found ourselves in need a new crossbeam and Outremer ordered us a new one without any payment up-front. It’s the kind of service you wish every company would provide, but sadly so few do. This is a real selling point and I want to commend them on supporting their brand for what will surely be a long future ahead.

Anything else you would add to help people thinking of buying an Outremer 51?

Look at more than just the brochure and the sales price. Understand that when you buy an Outremer you are buying a boat that has not cut any corners or used lesser materials to save cost or time. This is a boat where the bows are protected by several watertight crash lockers and the hulls are built with modern sandwich composites above the waterline, but thick, rock-solid monolithic laminates below. Weight savings is key, but not at the expense of structural integrity. Compare the boat weight and sail-plan versus the competition and you will find that no other boat comes close to offering what Outremer does. They build a simply fantastic boat. the-sailing-family.com

Elizabeth and Seth´s Owner´s Tour

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Aura 51 review

Aura 51 sea trial review by sam fortescue, may 2022.

Sam Fortescue meets Fountaine-Pajot’s latest cruising cat, blending comfort and sustainability

AURA 51 Full information and prices     AURA 51 review - PDF magazine article

Place of the Sea Trial : La Rochelle, France Journalist : Sam Fortescue

If you can sell over 150 catamarans off-plan before construction has even begun, you have the confidence of your owners. Fountaine-Pajot’s Aura 51 has achieved just that, and it is perhaps one of the most extraordinary marketing feats in modern boatbuilding.

So when the chance came to sneak an exclusive test-sail on the first hull to hit the water, I didn’t need convincing. After a gale-racked February, March at last brought sunshine and gentle breezes to the French Atlantic coast, where the shipyard is based. With the promise of a balmy 12-14 knots and double-digit temperatures, I climbed aboard a train bound for La Rochelle.

Now, there are some 5,000 boats berthed in the city’s Port des Minimes , but it didn’t take long to find the Aura 51. A towering mast allied to her principal dimensions of 51ft LOA and 26 ft 6in on the beam make her one of the larger sailing boats here. Sleek, harmonious lines with some reverse sheer to the deck and the athletic aft sweep of the slim coach roof give her the unmistakeable Fountaine-Pajot look. There’s the long-term design input of Berret-Racoupeau to thank for that, and the yard’s love of an elegant line. In fact, as we manoeuvred out of the marina later, the family resemblance was driven home by a full pontoon of Fountaine-Pajot catamarans awaiting their final commissioning.

AURA 51 Full information and prices  

An easy sailing

Although a large boat with towering topsides, the new Aura 51 is surprisingly simple to handle. Two-up for our test sail, we stepped easily aboard at the skirt and had the boat ready to depart in a few short minutes. There was a tricky moment manoeuvring the boat out of the marina, where a dredger had strewn a straggle of piping across the entrance. But from the bulkhead helm station, offset to starboard, visibility is excellent and my skipper jockeyed the twin throttles and wheel.

There is also an option for a camera feeding into the 12in Garmin display on the console. After slipping over the shallow approaches to the port, it took no time to wrap the main halyard round one of the three Lewmar Evo winches at the helm and hoist the sail. The 120 per cent genoa is on a manual furler whose line comes off a block near the quarter and doubles back up to the helm station on the bulkhead to starboard.

We were soon skimming southwest on a beat towards the glittering Ile d’Oléron. To make the most of the 95 square-metre square top main, we opened up the foot a little using the mainsheet traveller. We also toyed with the trim of the 59sqm genoa, whose sheeting point on the coachroof gives a nice tight sheeting angle for upwind work.

Once the tell-tales were flying cleanly, I glanced down at the Garmin instruments and found to my surprise that we were frothing along at nearly 6 knots beating into 12 knots of wind. From my perch up on the navigator’s seat, on the level, the boat’s motion betrayed no speed at all. Even pinching to around 32 degrees apparent, we lost less than a knot of pace. 

Suited to shorthanding

Sail control is made extremely simple by the way that all the active lines come back in two swathes to the winches at the helm. It means you have a winch for the mainsheet, another for the genoa sheet and a third for controlling the traveller. With the mainsheet feeding in athwartships, it is straightforward to get some elbow grease on the line, while the deep fall of the rope tidy bags make for easy stowage. Only the genoa halyard is at the mast, where you need to fit a block and tackle to tighten or loosen the captive loop.

In no time at all we had covered 7 nautical miles, first tacking upwind, then bearing away on to a balmy reach where we touched 9 knots of boat speed. I kept checking the Garmin for reassurance, but make no mistake: this boat is a mile-eater.

The gennaker stows neatly in the vast locker under the forward cockpit seating. It is short work to tack the sail to the stubby bowsprit which tilts upwards just ahead of the genoa.

The sheets run back to the quarter, then double back up to optional extra winches on the edge of the cockpit. I asked Erwan about reefing and he said that new owners are told to put in a first reef at 18 knots of true wind. “In time, you learn the feeling of the boat,” he told me. “When she feels like she’s sitting back, you put a reef in the main. After that it’s a few turns in the genoa to keep the rig balanced.” The three single-line reefs are nicely colour-coded for quick reference.

An ocean of living space

If liveability is the key to the catamaran’s incredible rise in popularity, then it is not hard to understand the success of the Aura 51. It has a protected 16 square metre flybridge, flush decks and a hydraulic platform aft that carries the tender under way and launches swimmers or divers at anchor. Careful thought about the boat’s ergonomics have ensured that the platform closes up nicely to the transom skirt for easy access.

Working with the team at Berret-Racoupeau , the yard has also done a tremendous job of uniting the inside and outside spaces. The layout pivots on the galley, which serves both areas, creating an incredible sense of space. “We really wanted to bring the galley into the cockpit. It’s a very smart space,” said Erwan.

Flexibility is the name of the game here. Deep upholstered sofas fill the forward and starboard side of the saloon, where they can do service for watchkeeping, movie nights or a cup of coffee with friends. If it’s too cold outside, you can slot in a removable table and eat indoors. FountainePajot calls the long seat on the centreline the ‘meridian’, and it occupies a primary importance. “Sitting here on a nightwatch, you can keep an eye on the instruments and scan the horizon in comfort,” said Erwan. “You can also check the mainsail through the new skylight and there is a tablet charging point in the armrest for remote control.” The TV round the corner from the instrument panel can be set to repeat the chartplotter display.

In the cockpit, a beautiful teak table seats eight in comfort, and there’s a plancha grill on the transom. The table can easily be extended to 12 places with a fold-out leaf and fill-in seat. There’s also a raised sunbed here and a sofa on the transom, giving copious lounging space.

With the aft doors fully slid back, there is a 10ft opening with the galley island in the middle. It naturally splits traffic between the galley and the saloon, and puts the work surfaces and the waste bin within easy reach from outside. These are the small points of detail that come from years of experience and real-world boat use. Just like the proximity of the big interior navigation display to the helm station, making it easy to nip down and check on.

A Maestro with flair

One of the big selling points of the Aura 51 is the flexible configuration of the cabins in either hull. The options run from the four-cabin maestro version with an entire hull devoted to the owner up to six carefully matched cabins. The design team has pulled off a real feat here, finding a way to make those six cabins fully ensuite – the first time it has been done on a 51-footer.

The trick is that the two aft-most cabins have their own companionways that emerge through an L-shaped plexiglass hatch onto the aft deck. Separated from the rest of the interior, these cabins would be ideal for older children or guests wanting their own space. They are proving popular with charter models.

But most owners will opt for either a full or double maestro layout. In the full version, the double bed is positioned aft with a view out through the hull windows. There follows a succession of cupboards, deep clothes storage, a desk and finally a separate heads and shower room with twin basins, giving the sort of space that monohull sailors can only dream of aboard. The double maestro makes two VIP cabins of the space aft and two good doubles forward.

The styling is by Isabelle Racoupeau, and reflects neutral colours and natural textures. Grey and cream upholstery contrasts with pale oak cabinetry and dark oak flooring, reinforcing the sense of chic living. There are plenty of standard options, plus the possibility of going off-piste with a custom finish through Fountaine-Pajot Service.

Every cabin has been carefully designed to offer at least two sources of natural light – flush deck hatches overhead and large hull windows. Opening hatches and portlights ensure there is always natural ventilation available, although there is of course a heating and aircon package available too.

More than just ecological awareness

Such features are small but significant factors in reducing the carbon emissions associated with building and using the boat. Fresh air and natural light reduce reliance on power-hungry artificial solutions, and mean that the boat can run longer off its own power.

If we want to continue to enjoy all that the oceans can offer, we must act now. For us, this means changing our way of conceiving our yachts and completely re-seeing the experience of boating by combining comfort, pleasure but also performance with a minimised impact on the environment. Romain Motteau, Deputy CEO Fountaine Pajot.

For this reason, the Aura 51 has a 2000W array of Solbian solar panels built flush into the lightweight coachroof, as I discover when I get aboard. In the fickle March sunshine, they were generating an easy 20A according to the Scheiber digital boat management system, which replaces the traditional switch panel. The next step this summer is to fit an Aura 51 with electric propulsion and just a small genset as backup.

Romain Motteau’s vision extends further, though. Visit the huge Fountaine-Pajot site in Aigrefeuille, just outside La Rochelle, and it’s the smell rather than the spectacle which you’ll notice first. Where most production halls are redolent with the styrene released as a by-product of lamination, the air here is rigorously scrubbed. Meanwhile, the use of injection moulding for smaller parts (including the coachroof/bimini) and precisely dosed infusion throughout, means less raw material is used for a stronger end result.

Under a programme dubbed Odysséa 24, Fountaine-Pajot has launched a plan to build boats that are net carbon neutral by 2030. And it plans to help its owners use the boats in a more efficient way through hand-over training. It is also bringing its suppliers into the circle asking them to manufacture and design more eco-efficient products.

Perhaps this is another reason that the model has been named ‘Aura’. “The name evokes a halo of light, a vital force, and positive energies,” explained head of marketing Hélène de Fontainieu who has proposed the name of every single one of the yard’s new models for 15 years. “This new catamaran signed by Fountaine-Pajot becomes the symbol of the commitment of the shipyard in its environmental transition.”

Appropriately enough, Aura was also a minor Greek deity whose name means ‘breeze’. The powerful rig of this new boat allows you to make the most of such lighter winds, while the spacious flybridge lounge and forward cockpit let you enjoy the breeze in a different way. With the Aura 51’s enormous stowage capacity and bluewater vocation, expect to see this emissary of the gods in an anchorage near you soon.

Technical features

Constructeur : Fountaine Pajot Architects : Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design LOA : 15,54 m / 51ft Beam: 8,08 m / 26.6ft Draught : 1,30 m / 4.4ft Displacement: 18,1 t Mainsail surface: 95 sqm Genoa surface: 59 sqm Motorisation: 2 x 60 HP Fuel tank capacity: 2x450 l Water tanks capacity: 900 l

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Catamaran Aura 51

Think big and aim high

Length overall

Beam overall

Standard Power

Electric version

Aura 51 - Smart Elec 75

Smart elec pack

Battery Park

Hydrogeneration

Upgraded battery

Upgraded charger

Additionnal AC Inverter

Inclus (Smart Elec 75)

On this yacht, guests do not have to envy the owners when it comes to enjoying comfort and privacy. Isn't that what true luxury is all about?

6 proper cabins plus full crew quarters

The Aura 51 marks the entry point into the world of luxury yachting and uninhibited pleasure...

At 15.54 metres long, it’s easy to see that the Aura 51 catamaran will be generous with space, because she can afford to be. Her hulls have a configuration flexibility that is rare a sailing catamaran of this size, offering the option of not one, but two owner’s cabins that each feature direct access from the stern. Her cockpit-saloon deck layout – which affords breathtaking views and can be completely opened up – is also a first. Featuring the latest in energy management technology, she is equipped with an innovative propulsion system on the ‘Smart Electric’ version.

Catamaran Aura 51 in video

Aura 51: an eco-friendly catamaran

Creating new memories you want to share

The Aura 51 grants a sublime sense of freedom without ever seeming too extravagant. Seamless movement onboard has been carefully orchestrated with its fluidity leaving nothing to chance. The ergonomics of carefree movement reflects the philosophy of this unique liveaboard catamaran .

Features Catamaran Aura 51

Version Double Maestro

2 owners’ suites + 2 bathrooms / 2 double cabins + 2 bathrooms

Mainsail area

Displacement unloaded

Option Power

Fresh water tank

2 x 119 Gallons

Diesel tank

Berret-Racoupeau Design

With 2,000 watts generated by fully integrated solar panels, the Aura 51 is a shining example when it comes to renewable energy . Storage and management are handled by a dedicated panel for optimal day-to-day convenience. Her many features make onboard life even more enjoyable.

Indoor & outdoor areas

Unique design and incomparable spaces.

The only sailing catamaran of its size to offer up to 6 double cabins, the Aura 51 isn’t just open for invitations, she really knows how to entertain! The numerous lounge and shared living areas guarantee an unrivalled degree of comfort. Finding guests to join you has never been easier!

Vintage 2024-25

The ambiance and materials of the Fountaine Pajot catamaran range evolve over time to infuse our boats with more light, harmony, and modernity, adapting to the trends of today and tomorrow. To give you a glimpse of the current Millésime featured in our range , explore the mini configurator below. It allows you to visualize the standard and optional materials available across our entire lineup. The featured catamaran showcasing the current Millésime is the Aura 51. Every Fountaine Pajot model delivered will include the Millésime presented below.

Rescue, Mocca 05

Cotting Esprit, Muscade

Cotting Esprit, Nature

Rescue, Argile Rose18

Rescue, Aqua Blue07

Rescue, Blue Jeans11

Rescue, Cloud White02

Valencia, Toffee

Valencia Charcoal

Batyline Elios Vichy

Batyline Elios Caramel

Sunt Flanelle

Bedside table

Virtual visit

As if you were there….

Welcome aboard this exceptional yacht for a 100% immersive visit. Explore her interior and exterior living spaces in minute detail!

• Construction & Design
• Smart Electric technology

Waiting times for a Fountaine Pajot catamaran may vary according to the stage of your project, the model you want or your sailing area. Some Fountaine Pajot dealers have new catamarans ready to sail! Contact your nearest dealer HERE to ask about the availability of the catamaran of your dreams!

Visit your nearest Fountaine Pajot boat dealer to buy a new catamaran from our range. You will benefit from personalised advice through the Fountaine Pajot dealer network. Discover our network HERE

The price of a Fountaine Pajot sailing catamaran varies according to the size of the model chosen and your sailing project. Our dealers are at your disposal to guide you in your choice of fittings, packages and options to best suit your boat purchase project . You can find out the starting price of the catamaran of your choice on this page HERE .

Innovative, high-tech composite materials constitute most of the structure of our sailing catamarans: hulls, flybridge, decks, bulkheads and more. Fountaine Pajot has perfected a resin injection and infusion technique, an advanced technology that gives our boats all their robustness. Thanks to this expertise, we can make our catamarans considerably lighter while maintaining consistent quality . Injection also makes it possible to meet the most stringent environmental requirements, in line with the commitments of the Fountaine Pajot Group.

Sailing catamarans from 40 to 50 feet are built at the Aigrefeuille headquarters, a few kilometres from La Rochelle. Catamaran yachts from 51 to 80 feet are built in La Rochelle, France, where they benefit from a slipway.

It is essential to define your sailing program: define the size of the crew on board, the level of sailing knowledge, the sailing project and the target sailing area. Every project is different. Whether you want to enjoy a large Owner’s suite, invite many friends and family on board, or telecommute during your voyage, the Fountaine Pajot cruising catamarans can be adapted to suit your needs. Benefit from reliable, seaworthy and spacious catamarans! Find out more about our Owners’ testimonials here

The ergonomics of Fountaine Pajot catamarans have been designed to facilitate manoeuvring at the helm, enabling a small crew (2 persons) to manoeuvre the boat easily, both in port and at sea. The unique design of the helm station allows good communication between the aft cockpit and the Fly relaxation areas. Of course, your level of navigation will determine your ability to sail with two or more persons!

Our electric catamarans now feature a large surface area of solar panels, up to 2000 WC, perfectly integrated into the design of the coachroof. Combined with equipment such as wind turbines or hydro-generators, they compensate for the energy consumption generated by on-board use during cruising. Discover the benefits of the Smart Electric solution with 4 real-life cruise scenarios

The Fountaine Pajot range of electric catamarans is expanding, and now includes 3 Smart Electric models. The Astréa 42, Elba 45 and Aura 51 are now available in this version.

With the help of over 70 engineers, Fountaine Pajot has developed an in-house solution, 100% adapted to the use of its catamarans equipped with hybrid electric motors . All on-board production and energy expenditure flows are managed from a single console designed by our teams to offer a simple, designer user experience. The system we have developed enables us to give priority to the use of renewable energies at all times. Find out more here

15-meter sailboat

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Experiences

A life of dreams, adventures and emotions....

Immerse yourself in the Fountaine Pajot experience through stories of adventure, news, webcasts, podcasts, press reviews, photo and video reports... Discover a little more about the pleasures of cruising and sailing catamarans!

10 Sep 2024

LAUNCHING a new generation of catamarans

Welcome aboard our latest newsletter, So Catamaran!

06 Sep 2024

 A real showroom afloat signed FOUNTAINE PAJOT

How does Smart Electric technology work? Answer on video…

Smart Electric: a complete overview of this technology, its origins, how it works and its everyday benefits... #Broadcast

02 Sep 2024

A step ahead for Fountaine Pajot

4 days of catamaran cruising with Fountaine Pajot in the British Virgin Islands

17 Jul 2024

Fountaine Pajot team wishes you a great summer!

Photo Challenge 2023

10 Jul 2024

New 2024 edition of the MyBoatAndI photo contest

2023 magazine

02 Jul 2024

3 exceptional days to discover the Fountaine Pajot Sailing Catamarans range

Multihulls World Magazine – Astréa 42

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