Long, lean, and built for sailors who prize speed without giving up comfort, the Balance 580 arrives in North America fresh from a South African build yard with pedigree and ambition. Designed by Phillip Berman and Du Toit Yacht Design, the 580 builds on Balance’s ethos of combining true offshore performance with the liveaboard refinement and storage volume long-range voyagers demand. With carbon reinforcement throughout, daggerboards, and the brand’s VersaHelm system, the 580 aims squarely at owner-operators who want to cover miles quickly, handle weather confidently, and still enjoy the comforts of a contemporary cruising home.

Nine hulls are already spoken for (at time of press), with boats scheduled through 2027, a sign that the appetite for performance cruising catamarans remains strong. 

Overview & Notable Options

The Balance 580 sits at the crossroads of lightweight epoxy construction, refined ergonomics, and thoughtful offshore systems. Her foam-core hulls keep weight low, while high-strength carbon is used strategically in beams, davits, and structural elements to improve stiffness and reduce flex offshore. Dual daggerboards offer upwind bite and agility, and a cutter-rigged sail plan with powered furling makes reefing and sail changes efficient from the helm.

Inside, the open-plan salon and cockpit flow together, delivering indoor/outdoor living suited both for passagemaking and life at anchor. Layout options range from three-cabin owner versions to four- and five-cabin crewed arrangements, all with generous storage, luxury finishes, and panoramic sightlines for watchkeeping in any weather.

Key Options Include:

• “Carbon Cross+” construction package with additional carbon throughout
  
• Daggerboard upgrade package
  
• VersaDrive hybrid diesel/electric charging system
  
• Interior layout choices: 3-cabin, 4-cabin, or 5-cabin crew configuration
  
• Conversion dinette berth in salon
  
• Expanded solar package (up to 3,400 watts)

Designed to be sailed comfortably by a couple, the 580 also includes a drop-down bow thruster for tight-quarter maneuvering and line-management solutions at the helm for simpler sail handling.

Construction & Design Notes

• 100% epoxy construction with carbon reinforcement
  
• Foam-core sandwich hulls and furniture to reduce weight
  
• Elevated under-wing clearance for offshore comfort
  
• Dual daggerboards and balanced hull lines for high-performance sailing
  
• All-glass window system for visibility and strength
  
• Hand-crafted joinerwork and wood-veneered foam-core cabinetry to reduce weight and increase durability

Systems & Safety

• Cutter rig with three headsails and electric furlers
  
• Lithium battery bank with optional hybrid regeneration
  
• Available VersaDrive hybrid with high-output DC charging
  
• Massive deck storage and secure gear stowage
  
• Robust tankage for long-range independence
  
• Outstanding watchstanding visibility inside and out
  
• Solid bulkhead integration and carbon structural grid for stiffness offshore

Builder Walkthrough

Join Balance Catamarans for a full walkthrough of the new 580, highlighting build quality, layout options, and systems design.

Performance

Balance says the 580 will hold windspeed or better in light air and climb comfortably into the teens and twenties when the breeze fills in. With daggerboards down, she points high with minimal leeway, a rare trait in a luxury cruising cat. When the breeze fades, efficient diesels and regeneration technology keep the boat moving responsibly without sacrificing performance.

This is a catamaran meant to be sailed rather than motored from island to island.

Specifications — Balance 580

Layout & Living Aboard

The Balance 580 is built for life at sea and at anchor, with a focus on visibility and connectivity to the environment. The salon’s seating height keeps sightlines forward and outboard, ideal for watchstanding in foul weather. The island galley blends indoor/outdoor living, and the salon table converts to a queen berth, useful for passagemaking or hosting guests. Large forward cabins, generous heads, and abundant cabinetry make long-term provisioning practical. Owners can choose layouts that suit private cruising, charter, or crewed operation, without sacrificing the upscale finishes that define the Balance brand.

Construction & Weight Strategy

Balance builds the 580 with a performance brief at its core. Foam-core hulls, all-epoxy laminates, and selective carbon reinforcement yield high strength and rigidity without piling on weight. Furniture is foam-core, hand-faced with wood veneers to maintain a warm interior aesthetic without compromising the weight budget. Underwing clearance is generous, reducing slamming offshore. With this approach, the 580 stands apart from mid-market catamarans that prioritize volume at the expense of efficiency. Here, light displacement equals more sailing time and less reliance on auxiliary power.

Systems & Hybrid Sailing

The 580 is offered with a conventional twin-diesel setup or the VersaDrive hybrid package. In hybrid form, high-output alternators generate up to 15kW per engine to quickly recharge lithium banks, reducing or eliminating the need for a standalone generator. Paired with optional 3.4kW of solar, the 580 promises quiet passages and efficient hotel loads without sacrificing range. Electric furlers, thoughtful line-stow solutions at the helm, and multiple headsails allow singlehanded sail selection and reefing. The end result: a technologically forward platform that keeps sailing fun and responsive, while bringing systems redundancy and reliability offshore cruisers expect.

Sailing the Balance 580

Enjoy a stunning montage of the Balance 580 catamaran Windigo as she sails in the waters off St Francis Bay:

About the Builder

Balance Catamarans, founded by circumnavigator and multihull broker Phillip Berman, builds semi-custom bluewater catamarans in South Africa with a focus on performance sailing, ergonomics, and premium construction. Their philosophy centers on efficiency without austerity, delivering yachts that can be handled by a couple, sail aggressively across oceans, and serve as refined homes afloat.

Editor’s First Take

From the dock, the Balance 580 reads like a statement of intent: lean hulls, daggerboards, carbon everywhere you look, and that signature VersaHelm ready for tropical afternoons or cold-weather passages. Step aboard and the story continues with thoughtful weight savings, natural light, and an honest-to-goodness sailor’s cockpit. There’s storage where you want it, handholds where you need them, and enough refinement to enjoy the little moments as much as the big crossings. This cat is clearly built by sailors who’ve logged real miles and understand how to balance performance with comfort. It’s fast, modern and unapologetically purposeful. —CW

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A piece of ocean-exploration history is poised for a new chapter. The historic 68-foot catamaran Moulin à Vent, once part of Jacques Cousteau’s pioneering fleet, is undergoing a full restoration in St. Augustine, Florida. The project is led by the Once Was Lost Stewardship Initiative, a nonprofit focused on ocean plastic recycling and awareness.

The team launched a crowdfunding campaign on October 28 with an initial public goal of $50,000. The ultimate target is $300,000 to complete the rebuild and return the boat to service.

Used as a research vessel in the 1980s, Moulin à Vent (“Windmill” in French) will be transformed into a modern, environmentally focused platform for exploration and conservation.

“This is no ordinary boat restoration,” said Kyle Gerecke, CEO of Once Was Lost. “We’re reviving a legacy and giving her a new mission for the oceans in a time when they need it most.”

The plan calls for solar-electric propulsion, recycled-plastic components, and onboard media and research capabilities. Once refit, the catamaran will support marine-debris cleanup, scientific expeditions, educational programs, and documentary storytelling across the Atlantic and Caribbean.

Supporters of the campaign will receive behind-the-scenes access to the refit process, along with memorabilia and opportunities to sail aboard the vessel after her return to service.

Phase one of the effort includes a haul-out, structural repairs, and documentation of the work through a public mini-series and exclusive backer updates. Later phases will focus on outfitting the boat for long-range sustainable operations.

For details or to support the project, visit the Once Was Lost website.

Inspiring the Next Wave of Ocean Stewards

Cousteau’s legacy has shaped generations of sailors, divers, and marine scientists. The restoration team hopes Moulin à Vent will spark new curiosity among young ocean enthusiasts, just as Cousteau’s expeditions did decades ago.

Youth outreach is planned as part of the vessel’s future mission, including education programs, hands-on science, and storytelling aimed at encouraging the next generation of sailors and conservation-minded adventurers to explore and protect the sea.

The post Historic Jacques Cousteau Catamaran Set for Sustainable Refit appeared first on Cruising World.

The Dragonfly 36 Performance Cruiser marks a bold evolution in multihull design, blending blistering performance, thoughtful comfort, and ingenious versatility. This new 36-foot trimaran from Quorning Boats makes its North American debut after a successful world premiere at boot Düsseldorf 2025, where 19 boats sold before hull number one even hit the water. Designed by Jens Quorning and Steen Olsen, the Dragonfly 36 features a unique signature Swing Wing system that reduces the 26.5-foot beam to 12 feet for docking, while wave-piercing floats and dual rudders ensure speed, stability, and safety in nearly any conditions. Whether you’re chasing offshore thrills or family-friendly coastal cruising, the Dragonfly 36 delivers on all fronts.

Design & Layout

Exterior

The Dragonfly 36 features a dual-zone cockpit designed for both relaxation and high-performance sailing. Forward cockpit seating provides ample comfort, while all sail controls are led aft to four electric winches near the twin helm wheels. Each helm pedestal accommodates up to a 12-inch GPS chartplotter, plus dedicated panels for windlass and bow thruster control. The streamlined deck layout keeps lines out of the way while maintaining complete operational efficiency.

Swing Wing System

Dragonfly’s revolutionary Swing Wing system folds the amas from 26.5 feet to 12 feet in seconds, without tools. The fully composite construction reduces weight, increases strength, and simplifies maintenance. This innovation allows convenient marina docking and trailer transport while maintaining the performance advantages of a wide multihull.

Interior

Step below the companionway into a spacious main cabin offering full standing headroom (6’6”) and panoramic natural light. The interior combines light ash wood or optional elm with hand-sprayed varnish for durability and elegance. Two private cabins accommodate family or crew, while the port sofa converts into a double berth. The galley includes a 2-burner stove with combined oven, an 85-liter fridge, large drawers, and a built-in garbage system. A separate forward head adds privacy, with an optional shower system.

Construction & Systems

The Dragonfly 36 is engineered in Denmark using high-tech composite construction with vacuum infusion, complex tooling, and rigorous strength testing. Core composite parts are optimized for weight, strength, longevity, and maintenance. Electric winches, a kick-up rudder, centerboard system, and a fixed bowsprit simplify sail handling and anchoring. Strategic placement of the sail drive and dual-blade propeller further protects the boat when grounding or drying out. Each float offers generous storage accessible via forward or optional aft hatches.

Sailing & Performance

The Dragonfly 36 is built for speed, stability, and effortless handling. Wave-piercing floats minimize drag, while twin rudders and a broad stern keep the boat balanced at all points of sail. A fixed bowsprit accommodates optional downwind sails like a Code-0, enhancing cruising and performance potential. With its shallow 65 cm draft and innovative hull design, the 36 can safely beach or explore shallow anchorages. Dual electric winches make shorthanded sailing intuitive, while the spacious cockpit allows full crew engagement without clutter.

VIDEO

Watch this quick highlight reel to see the Dragonfly 36 in action on the water:

Options & Configurations

• Versions: Dragonfly 36 Touring (standard) / Dragonfly 36 Performance (taller mast for increased sail area).
• Wood Options: Light ash standard, optional elm.
• Galley Upgrades: Additional storage, drawer systems, refrigerator placement.
• Sail Handling: Optional Code-0, twin tail sheets, racing-specific winch configurations.
• Technology: GPS/chartplotter integration, navigation displays, SEANAPPS monitoring system.

Highlights

The Swing Wing Advantage

Dragonfly’s Swing Wing system is a game-changer for multihull ownership. With a simple folding mechanism, the trimaran transforms from a 26.5-foot-wide performance cruiser into a 12-foot marina-ready vessel in seconds. This allows for easy docking, storage, and even transport on a trailer. Unlike traditional folding amas, the Dragonfly’s all-composite Swing Wing design is lighter, stronger, and easier to maintain. For sailors used to the challenges of wide multihulls, this system represents unparalleled convenience without sacrificing offshore stability or sailing performance.

Trimaran Living at 36 Feet

Despite its racing-inspired performance, the Dragonfly 36 offers a comfortable cruising lifestyle. Two private cabins, a convertible port sofa, and full standing headroom make life aboard surprisingly roomy for a 36-foot trimaran. The galley includes a double fridge, stove, and ample storage, while the main cabin is bathed in natural light through flush-mounted skylights and hull ports. At anchor, the expansive trampolines provide additional deck space for sunbathing, socializing, or kids at play. Smart interior design choices ensure that comfort doesn’t come at the expense of performance or functionality.

Safety & Ease of Handling

Safety is a cornerstone of the Dragonfly 36. The twin rudder setup, wave-piercing floats, and broad stern provide predictable stability across a range of conditions. A shallow draft, kick-up rudder, and centerboard system allow safe grounding or beaching. Electric winches, thoughtfully placed control lines, and a clean dual-helm cockpit make shorthanded sailing effortless. Optional Code-0 and other downwind sails enhance versatility while keeping handling manageable. These features make the Dragonfly 36 ideal for families, small crews, or adventurous sailors who want a high-performance trimaran without compromising safety or comfort.

About the Builder: Quorning Boats

Founded by Børge Quorning in Denmark, Quorning Boats has been a family-driven innovator in trimaran design for decades. The yard builds approximately 40 custom trimarans annually, combining traditional craftsmanship with advanced composite technology. Today, Quorning employs roughly 50 people and maintains a global reputation for stability, performance, and innovation. The Dragonfly line has been central to the company’s success, with each new model pushing boundaries in speed, safety, and living comfort. Quorning’s philosophy balances engineering excellence with hands-on sailing experience, making its trimarans both thrilling to sail and remarkably practical for coastal or offshore adventures.

Editor’s First Take

The Dragonfly 36 is the kind of boat that instantly makes you rethink what a multihull can do. The Swing Wing system alone is a revelation, bringing big-boat stability and speed into a package you can dock or trailer with ease. On the water, the trimaran feels light and responsive but remarkably solid, thanks to the wave-piercing floats and twin rudders. Below decks, there’s more space than you’d expect, with a cozy, modern cabin that makes weekend cruising truly enjoyable. This is a boat that balances adrenaline, family-friendly usability, and cutting-edge innovation, a rare combination in a high-performance cruiser. —CW

Dragonfly 36 Specifications

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The Royal Ocean Racing Club has published the Notice of Race for the 2026 Round Britain and Ireland Race, officially opening entries for the 50th anniversary edition of the storied 1,805-nautical-mile offshore challenge. The race will start Sunday, August 9, 2026, from Cowes, Isle of Wight.

Invited divisions include IRC monohulls, multihulls, IMOCA entries, and one-design classes such as Class40. The course remains one of the most formidable in offshore racing, sending crews on a full circumnavigation of Britain and Ireland and leaving every island and rock, including Shetland’s remote Muckle Flugga, to starboard.

First held in 1976, the race demands constant seamanship and endurance as crews navigate shifting weather, tidal gates, exposed North Atlantic stretches, and headlands including Land’s End, St. Kilda, and Fair Isle.

“The Round Britain and Ireland Race is one of the ultimate tests in offshore sailing,” said RORC Racing Manager Steve Cole. “Its mix of coastal challenges and exposed ocean passages makes it both unpredictable and unforgettable. With the Notice of Race now published, we’re looking forward to welcoming an exceptional fleet in 2026.”

The race has produced some of offshore sailing’s most memorable performances. In 2014, the VO65 Azzam set the monohull record and skipper Ian Walker called the contest “brutal” yet extraordinary. “Mentally, nothing was tougher than the final 12 hours as the wind died away,” Walker said after the finish. “Looking back now, the most amazing thing about that edition is that we didn’t tack once until we were back at the forts.”

Richard Palmer, who won overall IRC honors in 2022 aboard his JPK 1010 Jangada while racing double-handed, called the course “a full-on race with absolutely no let-up.” He added that it delivers “close racing on the IRC ratings” and tests crews to the limit across changing weather systems and tidal gates.

Since 2006, Sevenstar Yacht Transport served as title sponsor. RORC thanked Sevenstar for its longstanding support and is seeking new partners for the 2026 race.

Online entry opens November 3, 2025, at roundbritainandireland.rorc.org. Race fans will be able to follow the fleet through live tracking and watch the start from shore in Cowes and other headland vantage points around the British Isles.

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Our 1969 Cross 46 trimaran, Migration, was assigned an extra-wide guest dock at Fukuoka’s Odo Marina on the island of Kyushu. Strong northwest winds were in the forecast, so we began tying lines together to reach 65 feet across to the opposite finger.

That’s when Choichi-san wandered over. He’s a classic salt we’d met months earlier in Yakushima, where we shared a quay while waiting out a gale. He’d wasted no time showing us tricks for mooring to the barnacle-crusted walls of Japanese fishing harbors. And now, here he was again, appearing as if by magic to lend a hand—this time with a brand-new, ¾-inch braided line, long enough to keep Migration clear of the dock. 

When the blow had passed and we offered to return the line, Choichi-san declined, saying, “No, no. For you.” We think of him every time we use it.

That mooring line was the first of many gifts we received with no expectation of anything in return. In fact, we soon discovered the difficulty of giving thank-you gifts in Japan, often finding ourselves on the receiving end of a thank-you-for-the-thank-you gift.

But it was the friendships, not the gifts, that made our time in Japan so memorable. We’ve met all kinds of people during 20 years of cruising in 28 countries, but the Japanese were the epitome of hospitality. Their friendship, generosity and excitement for our visit overwhelmed us.

Both of us had dreamed of sailing to Japan, especially because Migration was built there 56 years ago. She was shipped to her first owner in California, where she was berthed in Alamitos Bay Marina—on the same bay where a 12-year-old Bruce was learning to sail dinghies. During a two-year refit in Thailand, we stripped away her delaminating fiberglass (polyester resin doesn’t age well on plywood). Underneath, we found handwritten kanji, a system of Japanese writing that uses Chinese characters. Photos of this delighted nearly everyone we met in Japan. A boat like Migration was a rare sight, and the idea that she was a product of decades-old Japanese craftsmanship fascinated many people we encountered.

In early June, we arrived in Ishigaki, at the southern end of the Ryukyu Islands, after a 28-hour sail from Taiwan. Eleven officials from six departments processed our arrival, a long but impeccably polite affair. We spent the next 10 days getting our bearings: securing a SIM card (a multiday challenge), completing paperwork, diving with manta rays, visiting nearby islands and savoring our first exceptional Japanese meal.

Eventually, we set sail for Teramajima, 35 nautical miles to the northeast, where we met our first tomodachi, or friend. The island has just 1,000 residents, and the sun was blistering as we walked through farmlands toward the village. We spotted a man with a group of children and asked in basic Japanese where we might find ice cream. To our surprise, he replied in English. Yoshi-san, from Kobe, turned out to be the only other tourist on the island.

His warmth and enthusiasm were instant. When he told us he was taking the ferry to Miyako-jima in two days—the same day we planned to sail there—we invited him to join us. “Sugoi!” he shouted, jumping up and down and making the kids giggle. It was, indeed, amazing. We’d never seen such unfiltered excitement after an invitation to sail aboard our boat.

The 30-mile sail was lively, with 25 knots on the quarter. Yoshi-san patiently answered our endless grammar questions until, mid-sentence, he leaned over the coaming, threw up and turned back to finish his answer. A true trouper.

We moored in Miyako-jima’s fishing harbor, and Yoshi headed to his friends’ guesthouse, promising to return later. When we arrived that evening, we were greeted by birthday decorations, food, new friends and a cake—a celebration in honor of Alene’s recent birthday. The beer and awamori flowed late into the night. It was an unforgettable (and slightly soused) introduction to Okinawan hospitality.

As we sailed north through the Ryukyu Islands, the snorkeling proved superb. Tokashiki and Zamami had stunning coral, colorful fish and tranquil anchorages. At Kakeromajima, after snorkeling a small reef, we swam ashore to a beach that was deserted, except for three people lounging on a blanket. They waved us over, and though our Japanese faltered, we understood they wanted us to wait. Soon, the fourth of their party arrived. 

Nob-san is a tall man who carries himself with an almost regal elegance. Thankfully, he also speaks English. His wife, Keichan, was born on the island, and they often returned from Yokohama with their friends, Kiyoshi-san and Mieko-san. We were invited to a picnic, which turned into a sail and snorkeling trip aboard Migration. That first meeting blossomed into a decade-long friendship full of rich political and philosophical conversations through email exchanges.

We continued into the Seto Inland Sea via the narrow, bustling Kanmon Strait, just as the Setouchi Triennale art festival was underway. The chance to sail from island to island, taking in installations both quirky and profound, felt like a stroke of luck.

New friends marked nearly every port. One of the most surreal encounters occurred in Hiroshima. We’d met Mitsugi-san, a surgeon, in Fukuoka. He told us to call if we ever sailed to Matsuyama, his hometown. When we did, he hosted us for a tour of a historic mountain village and told us he hadn’t sailed in years. Naturally, we invited him for our next leg: a 35-mile hop to Hiroshima.

It was a brisk, cold sail, but Mitsugi-san relished every moment, especially steering between islands. Upon arrival at Hiroshima’s Kanon Marina, we assumed we were off to enjoy local okonomiyaki. Instead, we sat in a dentist’s waiting room for an hour. Enter Misato-san, a whirlwind of energy and conversation who whisked us away on a series of cryptic errands in her enormous Cadillac, music blaring. Eventually, we got our okonomiyaki. Then, after dropping off Mitsugi-san, we picked up her husband and a stack of towels. Off we sped into the mountains to a beautiful onsen.

These public baths fed by hot springs are a cornerstone of Japanese life. We adored them. That night, Alene received an enthusiastic, nonstop tutorial on bathing etiquette from Misato-san. Bruce, meanwhile, enjoyed quiet soaking time with her husband.

By the time we returned to Migration, well past midnight, we were exhausted and dazed. What began as a routine day sail had become a full-blown, unforgettable adventure.

Japan is breathtaking. But more than anything, the friendships shaped our experience and made each moment feel dreamlike.

Every port held surprises: In Kobe, we reunited with Yoshi-san and spent nights in his favorite bar, playing music and making friends. In Shōdoshima, we sang Christmas carols with Maya, Yuki and her rabbit, which was dressed as Santa Claus. In Nagasaki, Tatsuo-san and Keiko-san insisted we join them for a beach day the moment we tied up.

Japan is breathtaking: misty cedar forests, turquoise seas, snowy pine-covered peaks. Its architecture is graceful, its food sublime, and its culture intricate and endearing. But more than anything, the friendships shaped our experience. They lifted us, carried us and made each moment feel dreamlike.

Migration was welcomed back to her birthplace. And we were embraced by friends who touched our hearts and continue to call us back. 

Bruce Balan and Alene D. Rice have been sailing full time aboard Migration since 2005 and are the creators of TheChartLocker.com. They are in New Zealand and plan to return to Japan in 2027. Follow them at svMigration.com.

Tips for Cruising in Japan

Respect the CultureJapan has many social nuances. One example is chotto muzukashii, which means “a little difficult.” Usually, if someone says something is a little difficult, my response is, “Well, let’s figure out how to do it.” But in Japan, the phrase means “it cannot be done,” as it’s considered rude to say a direct no. § Being considerate, polite and respectful will take you much farther than being loud or pushy. We cannot stress enough how important this is. Already, several marina operators are considering excluding foreign boats because of bad behavior. In Japanese society, you must avoid inconveniencing others, even unintentionally. Your actions will affect how all future cruisers are received.

Language

It can seem an insurmountable challenge to learn a language as different from English as Japanese. But since many Japanese people are shy, learning a little will help break the ice. Everyone we met was extremely grateful for our attempts to speak the language. § There are three alphabets used in Japan. We recommend learning Katakana first, as that is the alphabet used for many foreign words that have been assimilated. It’s pleasing to be able to sound out 掇讹肪非峨恶非尔 (gasorin sutando) and know that it means gas station.

Bureaucracy

Though bureaucracy can be exasperating, we actually enjoy navigating the paperwork ourselves. It offers the opportunity to immerse oneself in the culture and meet locals. Thankfully, the antiquated closed-port rules that required visiting yachts to receive permission for all but a handful of harbors were eliminated in 2018. But there is still plenty of paperwork, plus visits with local officials. If you are in a hurry or don’t want to deal with the red tape, Konpira Consulting is happy to help. Remember, patience and politeness are essential.

Assistance

No gaijin, or foreigner, has done more to promote cruising in Japan than Kirk Patterson of Konpira Consulting, which you can find at konpira-consulting.com. After sailing to Japan in 2013, he became the first gaijin to circumnavigate the country. Realizing what an unusual destination Japan is, he created Konpira Consulting to assist cruisers and encourage cruising in Japan.

Weather

One reason many boats don’t visit Japan is a fear of hurricanes, which are called typhoons in this part of the world. It is not an unsubstantiated fear. West Pacific typhoons are powerful and plentiful.
The good news is there is excellent tropical storm tracking available from the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, a division of the US Navy with a solid interest in protecting its regional bases. Also, there are thousands of fortified harbors. This country has been dealing with destructive typhoons for centuries. § That said, a direct hit from a Category 5 storm is always a risk. Monitoring the weather daily and having a typhoon preparation plan is essential. West Pacific typhoons are rare in the winter months, but they can occur at any time, with August seeing the most frequent occurrences.

When to Go

Japan is affected by monsoon winds: northwesterly in winter and southeasterly in summer. If you are planning to sail through Japan and onward to Alaska in one season, it’s best to arrive with the first of the spring southerlies. You’ll want to depart for Alaska in early June, when the North Pacific gales weaken but before the typhoon season gains momentum. If Alaska isn’t on your itinerary, you can use the monsoon winds to visit Japan from the south, sailing north in spring and returning in winter.

Navigation

There is a remarkable amount of shipping in Japanese waters, and it’s dangerous to sail at night in some areas because of aquaculture farms. § There are many options for good electronic charts. TheChartLocker.com offers free coverage of the entire country with three satellite views in MBTiles format. For phones and tablets, the navigation app New Pec Smart is available. It’s in Japanese, but Konpira Consulting can help with the licensing and provide an English-language guide. The major charting companies all offer coverage as well. As always, the prudent sailor will have multiple charting sources and not rely on a single company’s products.

Moorage

Marinas can be expensive, while the concrete walls of fishing harbors are usually free if you ask permission. Tying up to walls is a skill one must develop quickly. Fender boards are useful, but sometimes ride up over the fenders. Konpira Consulting recommends using Polyform A5 fenders. Short loops of chain that hang over a wall’s rough edge help to avoid chafing your mooring lines. Tides can vary between 1 and 20 feet; a 3- to 4-meter collapsible ladder is extremely useful in some harbors.

Go Soon

In 2016–17, there were perhaps 15 to 20 foreign boats actively cruising Japan. Except at the check-in and check-out ports of Ishigaki and Hakodate, we met only three of them. If you have a social cruising style, you may want to join one of the rallies that are increasingly popular. Remember, though, that setting out on your own can lead to wonderful encounters with locals. Sadly, YouTubers and bloggers are discovering Japan. Misinformation and hyperbole seem to go hand in hand with social media, and that is bad for everyone’s reputations. If Japan is on your horizon, we recommend going sooner rather than later. —BB/ADR

The post Sailing Japan: A Voyage of Friendship and Discovery appeared first on Cruising World.

Seawind Catamarans has officially launched the Seawind 1270, a 42-foot performance cruising catamaran designed to redefine comfort, safety and speed at sea. The new model builds on the success of the Seawind 1260, which was named Cruising World’s Best Cruising Catamaran Under 50 Feet in 2019, and incorporates 35 major design upgrades based on owner feedback from around the world.

“With the Seawind 1270, our team took a new approach to design and styling, as the result of decades of refinement in catamaran design, drawing from our proven Seawind DNA,” said Richard Ward, CEO of Seawind Catamarans and Corsair Marine International. “We set out to create the best possible 42-foot catamaran in the world for our customers by listening to what sailors really need. We’ve preserved our essential features our owners love, introducing modern lines and exciting new features whilst also utilizing the latest technology and engineering.”

At 400 mm longer and 120 mm wider than its predecessor, the Seawind 1270 offers expanded interior space, raised foredecks for better ocean capability and a larger forward cabin area. The hulls feature new underwater shapes optimized for improved performance off the wind, while wider topsides increase living volume. True to Seawind’s offshore pedigree, the 1270 is built to Category A certification for unlimited offshore sailing.

Inside, buyers can choose between a three-cabin galley-down version or a three-cabin galley-up layout with a forward-facing navigation station. The much-loved day bed returns, as do the panoramic opening windows for ventilation and visibility. Safety has been improved with side access gates, extended transoms, and 800 mm stanchions with four lifelines.

The 1270’s cabin roof is engineered for up to 2,040 watts of solar panels and doubles as a rainwater catcher, while carbon reinforcement in high-stress areas adds strength without weight. Standard propulsion comes from twin 29 hp Yanmar diesels, and a hybrid-electric option is planned for late 2026.

Seawind will premiere the 1270 worldwide via livestream on September 28 at 10 a.m. PDT, followed by an in-person debut at the Annapolis Boat Show in October. Production begins in November 2025 at Seawind’s Ho Chi Minh City facility, with the first hull scheduled for completion in mid-2026.

“While the Seawind 1270 is a completely new tooling project, it will be produced by the same experienced Seawind 1260 production team,” Ward said. “This ensures the Seawind 1270 production will benefit from Seawind’s experienced workforce working in this same 40–45-foot range, who have established exceptional craftsmanship and finish.”

With its blend of performance, safety, and liveaboard comfort, the Seawind 1270 continues the builder’s tradition of creating bluewater catamarans built for adventure and designed for life on the water.

The post Seawind Launches 1270 Performance Cruising Catamaran appeared first on Cruising World.

Windelo, the French builder behind last year’s Boat of the Year–recognized Windelo 54, has announced two larger models—the Windelo 58 and Windelo 62—marking a major expansion of its eco-conscious cruising catamaran range. The new boats, shown at the Cannes Yachting Festival, combine electric and hybrid propulsion, sustainable materials, and bluewater-ready design.

Since its founding in 2019, Windelo has earned a reputation for pushing boundaries in performance, comfort, and environmental responsibility. The new models take the builder into the 60-foot segment for the first time. “Owners are looking for more space, greater comfort, and more autonomy — but also for a deeper respect for the environment,” says CEO Gautier Kauffmann. “The Windelo 58 and 62 open a new chapter in our journey.”

Designed by the naval architecture firm Barreau & Neuman in collaboration with the Stellantis Design Studio, the two new cats build on the brand’s distinctive style: fine hull lines, lightweight structures, and expansive living areas. The Windelo 58 is conceived as a versatile world voyager with a centralized forward cockpit, daggerboards, and a light displacement of 18 tons. It offers up to five cabins and is powered by electric or hybrid engines with solar, wind, and hydro-generation support.

The flagship Windelo 62 carries the same DNA but on a larger platform, with a light displacement of 22 tons and even greater payload and interior flexibility. Both boats emphasize panoramic views, loft-like interiors, and seamless indoor-outdoor living. “We wanted boats that offer more space, more comfort, and more autonomy — without compromising performance or sustainability,” says naval architect Christophe Barreau.

Design Director Hugo Nightingale of Stellantis notes that the automotive approach helped refine the new cats’ proportions and usability. “Our goal is to strike a powerful harmony between performance and everyday usability,” he says.

Both models share Windelo’s hallmark sustainable construction. Basalt-fiber and PET foam sandwich hulls reduce environmental impact, while electric and hybrid drive systems provide silent operation and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.

For sailors interested in seeing these new designs firsthand, Windelo will continue exhibiting at major international boat shows and expects the first new hulls to touch the water in 2026.

Key Specs (Windelo 58): 58 feet LOA, beam 31 feet, light displacement 18 tons, up to five cabins, electric/hybrid engines with solar, wind, and hydro power.

Key Specs (Windelo 62): 62 feet LOA, beam 31 feet, light displacement 22 tons, up to five cabins, electric/hybrid engines with solar, wind, and hydro power.

More information: windelo-catamaran.com

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Leopard Catamarans has unveiled its newest flagship sailing catamaran, the Leopard 52, which premiered at the Cannes Yachting Festival and will make its U.S. debut at the Annapolis Sailboat Show this fall.

Replacing the popular Leopard 50, the new 52-footer represents a significant step forward in design, comfort and performance. Built by Robertson & Caine in South Africa and designed by Simonis Voogd Design, the Leopard 52 adds more sail power, interior flexibility and eco-friendly features to the brand’s blue-water DNA.

“The Leopard 52 is without a doubt the most versatile catamaran in its class,” said Franck Bauguil, senior vice president of yacht ownership and product development. “From private owners and long-term liveaboards to charter guests and families, this yacht adapts to every lifestyle with unmatched flexibility.”

Layouts and Comfort

Owners can choose from a range of interior configurations, from a dedicated three-cabin liveaboard layout with a utility room to a six-cabin charter version, each with ensuite head and shower. Optional crew quarters and multiple cockpit table setups further personalize the onboard experience.

A fully opening saloon and aft cockpit create seamless indoor-outdoor living, while a watertight forward door provides direct foredeck access for safety, ventilation and circulation. Upgraded finishes, indirect lighting and refined details throughout the interior bring a residential feel to life aboard.

Performance and Sail Power

With a taller mast, overlapping genoa and optional square-top mainsail, the Leopard 52 offers 17 percent more upwind sail area than the model it replaces. Naval architects Simonis Voogd Design also refined the hulls and rig using advanced CFD modeling, resulting in reduced pitching, better seakeeping and improved agility.

“The new Leopard 52 belongs to a new generation of catamarans that achieve better stability and comfort while offering a larger rig and more sail power,” said Alexander Simonis of Simonis Voogd Design. “Owners can expect less motoring and more pure sailing pleasure.”

Eco Options and Smart Tech

Sustainability upgrades include optional integrated solar panels (four 400-watt panels), lithium battery systems and a hybrid electric propulsion package developed with Joool. This system can regenerate power under sail and enables fully electric cooking and appliances, reducing reliance on LPG and maximizing energy efficiency.

The Leopard 52 will also enter charter service as The Moorings 5200 through the company’s yacht ownership program.

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Catana is set to debut the Ocean Class², an updated edition of its popular 50-foot bluewater catamaran, at the 2025 Cannes Yachting Festival. With more than 20 hulls already sailing, the new version reflects direct feedback from owners while refining both performance and onboard comfort.

Developed with the Piaton & Bercault design studio, the Ocean Class² interior aims for a warmer, more inviting atmosphere with updated finishes and fabrics. The layout emphasizes open flow and functionality, starting with a widened sliding glass door that enhances the connection between the cockpit and saloon.

Owner-driven updates include a new storage and seating unit linking the helm station to the cockpit, as well as a redesigned saloon with deeper lounge seating and a modular table that shifts from berth to dining area to workstation. The galley gains 15 percent more counter space, a larger island, and improved storage, all positioned for sea views while cooking.

The central saloon, intended as the hub for long passages, now features a cocooning lounge seat adjacent to a reworked chart table with improved visibility and connectivity. Below, buyers can select from three- or four-cabin layouts.

Performance also receives attention. By incorporating new materials and weight-saving techniques, Catana has reduced displacement while preserving payload capacity. The result, the yard says, is a catamaran capable of carrying more gear and personal items without slowing down — a key factor for circumnavigators.

“This new edition builds on what already works,” said Benjamin Monier of Catana Sales. “What we wanted was to evolve it with customer feedback — to take it further and enrich the concept with concrete solutions.”

The Ocean Class² measures 14.99 meters overall (15.75 with bowsprit) with a beam of 7.98 meters. Draft ranges from 1.39 meters with boards up to 2.52 meters down. Sail area comes in at 140 square meters upwind, and twin 45-horsepower engines provide auxiliary power.

Pricing starts at €1,090,000 (excl. VAT). The Ocean Class² will be on display at Catana’s stand (SAIL 025) in Cannes.

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In the early 1980s, Marc Van Peteghem and Vincent Lauriot Prévost were a couple of young naval architecture students in Southampton, England. They decided to merge their talents, and their initials, to create their own design firm. Today, VPLP is a global ­powerhouse with more than three ­dozen employees. It has designed everything from America’s Cup winners to round-the-world record-setters.

VPLP’s first big break came in 1987, when a fledgling French boatbuilder called Lagoon commissioned the firm to draw the lines of a 55-foot cruising catamaran. It was the start of a long and productive relationship. VPLP has produced many more Lagoons since then, including the company’s latest model, the Lagoon 43. It’s a collaboration with exterior designer Patrick le Quément and interior ­designer Nauta Design. 

This background is important for a couple of reasons. First, it speaks to Lagoon’s distinctive, consistent look and style over the intervening years. Second, it helps to explain Lagoon’s DNA. It’s a builder whose cats combine plenty of creature comforts with the performance for which VPLP is known.

Interestingly, VPLP took ­until the late 1990s to introduce what I consider to be Lagoon’s signature design ­feature: the distinctive coachroof treatment that overhangs the ­forward windows and resembles a gun turret. It came with the introduction of the 410 and 470. It’s readily recognizable here on the 43, and the roof itself extends aft and over the cockpit to provide protection from the sun and elements. 

Aesthetically, the lines are clean and uncluttered. The ­waterline is maxed out, the freeboard is ample, and there’s a noticeable chine in the hulls—a nod toward expanded ­interior volume in the staterooms. The raised steering ­station, beneath a hard Bimini top, is to port. (For some unknown reason, this setup is to starboard on most cruising cats.) A series of sun pads and a wraparound settee are adjacent to the helm, a sensible solution to adding upstairs lounging space on a boat not really large enough for a flybridge. The side decks are wide and, with a molded-in bulwark, safe and secure. One of the cooler elements of the exterior plan is the cutouts aft in each hull for side boarding from a dock or dinghy. There are also nice sets of steps in the transoms for swimming or coming aboard.

The interior layout truly ­maximizes the space, making the boat feel much more expansive than its 45-foot-5-inch length overall. (A 25-foot-3-inch beam doesn’t hurt matters.) There are a few innovative items I haven’t seen before, starting with adjacent dining tables in the salon and cockpit that can be configured a dozen (yes, 12) different ways. For example, with the sliding doors open, they can be paired to seat a dinner party. With the doors shut, the salon table can be dropped down with cushions inserted to create a roomy berth. About half of the 43s built are expected to go into charter service, so this flexibility is a necessary feature.

Along those same lines, in the double-berth stateroom aft, there’s a “high-rise” single berth perched over the double. The single can fold down when not in use. Also, that stateroom and the owner’s space, to starboard, can each be accessed from separate entrances in the cockpit, along with access down a few stairs from the main salon. (A charter layout has four double-berth staterooms as opposed to the dedicated owner’s space on our test boat.) Forward is the commercial-grade galley with a four-burner stove. Nearby is a flat-screen TV that can be raised or lowered, and there are fridges inside and outside. Gracious living and entertaining were clearly top priorities. 

Construction is an infused laminate incorporating E-glass and polyester resin that employs a balsa core in the hull, deck and coachroof. The twin auxiliaries are 57 hp Yanmar diesels with saildrives. There’s a solar array topside as well as a generator to meet power needs, and all equipment is top-notch: Raymarine instrumentation, a Quick windlass, Harken winches, Spinlock clutches and Elvstrom sails (including a square-topped mainsail).

During Cruising World’s 2025 Boat of the Year ­contest, we sailed the 43 on a fall Chesapeake Bay afternoon with a pleasant northwest breeze of 10 to 12 knots. Closehauled, the cat clipped along to weather nicely, making just shy of 7 knots. Easing sails and falling off to a beam reach, the 43 still registered nearly 6 knots. The helm was light and responsive, and the boat was quite fun to sail. 

The 43 replaces the popular Lagoon 42 in the brand’s current lineup. That model is a tough act to follow: More than 1,000 of the 42-footers were launched after its introduction in 2016, making it one of the company’s all-time bestsellers. Lagoon has ambitious goals with the new boat, hoping to build a hundred a year. As of this past fall, the yard was off to a great start, with 70 units sold. 

The partnership of VPLP and Lagoon has been a long and lasting one. It shows no signs of slowing down.

Take the Next Step

Price: $710,000
catamarans-lagoon.com

Herb McCormick is a CW editor-at-large.

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