Review – Lagoon 51 vs. Fountaine Pajot Aura 51
MULTIHULL - CATAMARAN REVIEW & COMPARISON
In this review article, we compare two of the largest catamarans without a need for a crew, from two of the largest catamaran produces and fierce competitors in both the private- and charter ownership segment of the leisure marine industry.
When living at anchor and entertaining guest at sea is your preferred means of spending time aboard, look no further than these two 50-feet catamarans.
Embracing your unique needs and preferences is key to finding the perfect multi-hull for your cruising lifestyle. While comfort and performance can be subjective and relative, it’s important to trust your instincts and ask yourself the right questions as you navigate this exciting decision. Your journey is yours to define and with careful consideration, you’ll discover the vessel that will unlock your full potential as a seafaring adventurer. Let your passion for exploration guide you and embrace the freedom that comes with finding the perfect multi-hull. The adventure awaits!
What’s the key to enjoying life at sea? It’s all about relaxation and space! Finding enough room for everyone and everything, without tripping over each other every five seconds. Trust me, with all the modern gizmos and gadgets around, living onboard can be a breeze.
And convenience is king! With automation and energy-saving tools, we can easily adapt to life at sea without having to sacrifice any of our creature comforts. And let’s not forget safety – after all, no one wants to be stranded at sea.
So, let’s hoist the sail, kick back, and enjoy the ride without having to worry about all the technical stuff. Aye, aye, captain!
Different shipyards share the same concept: Volume & Comfort
Build by two different shipyards, Lagoon with its home base by the Atlantic at the southwest coast of France, and Fountaine Pajot in Aigrefeuille in the middle of the countryside in the south of France, and with different naval architects and designers, both the Lagoon shipyard (Groupe Beneteau) and Fountaine Pajot (The Compagnie du Catamaran) share the same market dominance on both the private -and yacht charter ownership market. Similarly, their design approach and model range is focused on comfort and utilising space and an abundance of lounging areas and space for entertainment. No wonder then that both are preferred catamarans for the charter market and have had an excess of 150 units sold of each model prior to their launch dates.
Volume & Comfort – building from the inside-out
The slab-sided and modern design approaches to both these voluminous catamarans are clearly aimed towards creating an experience like that of a modern apartment and maximising the use of the yacht at anchor – a totally static experience. The concept of “building inside and out” is not strange to the powerboat industry and was made popular by the Polish shipyard Sunreef, which also introduced the Fly-bridge catamarans to the market that Lagoon Catamarans then later copied. Another popular shipyard in the same luxury segment is Privilege Catamarans, where most designs and the appeal to its core customers are based on luxury feel of the yacht and the space and comfort at anchor.
Is all this comfort then at the cost of a sailing experience? Yes, there is no denying that, albeit its large canvas size and push-button ease of all the sailing controls and lines make it an easy task to clock some serious miles without having to engage a professional crew. Both the Lagoon 51 and the Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 are arguably two of the largest sailing catamarans on the market for a short-handed crew.
The opinions are divided on the matter of what entails an ideal live-aboard multihull: the strength of the design, construction and feeling at helm of the performance-optimised catamarans such as the Outremere, Catana, Nautitech, ITACatamarans, Balance, or HH-Catamarans, or the luxury of the all-inclusive optimal holiday platform of the larger series production shipyards such as the Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot, Leopard, or the Bali Catamarans.
We are not here to create division but rather to point out the why and how. For the yacht charter industry, the advantages are obvious and plenty. Most of the above-mentioned production series shipyards are closely tied or owned by the same group as the large global charter companies that offer yacht charter ownership programs and investments, such as the Dream Yacht Charter, Navigare Yachting, SunSail and Moorings.
For the charter industry, the advantages of this configuration are multiple:
- Beamy design: create plenty of main deck space and seating/lounging arrangements and allows for larger transoms and bathing platforms.
- Volumuniuos hulls: increases the stowage -and payload capacity and width in the cabins.
- Fly-Bridge: another vantage point and lounging area and a preferred helm position for a hired skipper.
- Layout and Size: optimal cabin configurations and spacious island bed cabins cater for plenty of guests and even crewed charter
- Saloon Main Deck: focus on dining arrangements and entertainment with larger galley sizes. No need for a navigational station as most time is spent at anchor or navigating short distances and boat is often managed by a professional skipper.
If you are unfamiliar with the two brands or the multihull models in question, here’s a brief introduction.
Lagoon Catamarans
Lagoon is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of cruising catamarans. The brand values freedom and lifestyle, resulting in elegant and comfortable yachts. Designed by VPLP (naval architect), Nauta Design (interior) and Patrick le Quément (exterior), The Lagoon 51 is designed to optimize circulation on board and create seamless fluidity and ease of movement onboard. The global launch for the catamaran was at the International Multihull show April 2022.
From the Shipyard:
Lagoon’s will is to offer comfortable and self-sufficient catamarans, resulting from a sustainable production, featuring tomorrow’s technologies, to satisfy the expectations of today’s sailors
Fountaine Pajot Catamarans
Created in 1976 by Jean-François Fountaine, later in 1983, the brand’s first sail cruising catamaran, the Louisiane 37, became a commercial success. Nowadays, the Fountaine Pajot name is associated with spacious, comfortable cruising catamarans, both for the private and charter ownership market. The Aura 51 was first introduced in late 2022 and replaced the nine-year-old Saba 50 design (which they produced more than 150 units) and is part of a new series of aesthetically enhanced Fountaine Pajot catamarans ranging from the Isla, Astrea, Elba and now also the new Aura 51.
From the shipyard:
“We have acquired our position as an international reference thanks to our constant desire for innovation and renewal. Our range of sailing catamarans and motor yachts are designed, conceived and upgraded to meet the needs of customers who are passionate about sailing, comfort and freedom.”
Technical specifications
Key differences
The table below illustrates the key specifications between the Lagoon 51 & the Fountaine Pajot Aura 51
Lagoon 51 Specifications
HULL LENGHT
15,35 m / 50’4’’
BEAM
8,10 m / 26’7’’
DISPLACEMENT
19,914 T / 43 910 Lbs
WATER
2 x 240 L + 2 x 175 L
2 x 63 Lbs + 2 x 46 Lbs
FUEL
2 x 520 l / 2 x 137 US gal
ENGINES
2 x 80 CV / HP
Lagoon 51 Saling Ratio
Main
98 m² / 1054 sq.ft.
Jib
53 m² / 570 sq.ft (self-tacking as standard)
Gennaker/ Spinnaker
101 m² / 1087 sq.ft.
Sailing Ratio (kg's per m2 upwind sail area)
131,7
Lagoon 51 Architect & Design
Architect & Exterior Design
VPLP Design & Patrick le Quément
Interior Design
Nauta Design
Lagoon 51 The Concept
“We designed the Lagoon 51 as a perfect synthesis of the modernity of the shapes and the sail plan, with living space on deck and inside that is unequalled on a boat of this size.”
VPLP Design
APPEALING FLYBRIDGE
The flybridge has been designed to utilize up to 80% of the rooftop, featuring two expansive sun pads located at the forefront of the helm station, accompanied by a spacious C-shaped seating area. The central table can be lowered to create an exceptionally roomy sunbathing area. Two stairs lead to the fly, one for the helmsman and one for the guests. This double access allows a great fluidity of connection between the living spaces of the boat. The flybridge of the Lagoon 51 is innovative by the modularity of its spaces, its clever ergonomics and the cosiness of this great living area. The modular seating provides an opportunity to safely navigate the vessel, alone or with company, without compromising on the comfort.
EXTENDED TRANSOMS FOR A BETTER CIRCULATION
The Lagoon 51 boasts a spacious and secure environment that allows effortless boarding, courtesy of its wide transoms. Its design feature ensures smooth and practical access to the dockside, with the Tenderlift adding to its appeal as a large, oceanfront balcony. When berthed, the expansive bathing platform invites you to indulge in swimming and relaxation up close with the water! Suitable for easy movement on board is the commendable two-step difference between the cockpit and the transoms, providing a notably low level for navigability. This practical and innovative feature caters to fulfil a real need.
WELCOMING FORWARD COCKPIT
The forward cockpit offers an unobstructed view of the ocean and has been thoughtfully designed to cater for small groups to lounge, eat and socialise. This space is perfect for sharing sundowners or relaxing comfortably during the day under the shade sail. The forward cockpit boasts several amenities, including ample cup holders, a pleasant coffee table, and sun protection, ensuring that you can relish every moment spent there. The improved ergonomics of the seatee and amenities allow for time to spend on the foredeck as a compliment to the large social areas in the cockpit and on the flybridge.
NEW GENERATION INTERIOR
Enter a luxurious salon and experience the innovative design concept of spaciousness. The mast is stepped on the fore end of the salon ensuring an uninterrupted view. The generous luminosity, emanating from the 360° vertical windows, is complemented by the exquisite wood finishes, known as “Alpi sand oak”. This spacious salon boasts impressive volume, providing effortless circulation. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, it is equipped with practical solutions characteristic of a Lagoon yacht.
Furthermore, the owner’s cabin is designed to maximize comfort, with a large walk-in dressing included as standard. This layout optimization ensures that the owner can indulge in ultimate relaxation on board.
“The stepped up lounge of the saloon offers the best 360°panoramic view over the water.”
NAUTA Design
A MORE LIVELY SAILING EXPERIENCE
The platform for the Lagoon 51 is based on that of the former 50, although the mast position has been significantly shifted.
The mast is stepped on the median beam, at 40 per cent of the overall length aft of the bow and the Lagoon 51 has a lighter construction, reduced by 1,000 kg or five per cent compared to the 50. This configuration means sufficient sail area can be achieved with a shorter mast, lowering the centre of effort and reducing weight aloft.
With the structure lightened by 750kg, a rig that’s more than 6ft feet shorter and an overlapping genoa, the Lagoon 51 is designed to be livelier on the water than her predecessor.
SUSTAINABLE COMMITMENTS
Lagoon is committed to minimizing its impact on the environment. Sustainable solutions and environmental care are an important part of the Lagoon strategy.
Lagoon 51 offers options of XXL solar panels on the roof. This technology provides more than 3.400 watts of power to operate the on-board service. The boat is therefore fully autonomous (except for the air conditioning).
The solar panels fit perfectly into the lines of the catamaran and do not interfere with life on board. The flybridge and the sun pads on the roof are still accessible and usable even with the panels.
On board the Lagoon 51 model they are taking active measures to insure that :
- hemp fiber replaces fibreglass wherever possible, together with partially bio-sourced resin
- upholstery in the recycled fabric is proposed
- 100% ecological and biodegradable cleaning products will be delivered with the boat
- The proposed Alpiwood is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)and many more innovations are in progress.
Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 Specifications
HULL LENGHT
14.99 m / 49.18 f
BEAM
26.5 ft / 8,08 m
DISPLACEMENT
18.1 t
WATER
900 l / 237.75 US Gallons
FUEL
2 x 450 l / 2 x 118.27 US Gallons
ENGINES
2 x 60 HP - 2 x 60 CV
Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 Saling Ratio
Main
1023 ft² / 95 ft²
Jib
635 ft² / 59 ft² (overlapping genoa as a standard)
Gennaker/ Spinnaker
G: 40 m² / 1506.95 ft, S: 80 m² / 1937.50 ft
Sailing Ratio (kg's per m2 upwind sail area)
117.5
Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 Architect & Design
Architect & Exterior Design
Berret-Racoupeau yacht design
Interior Design
Isabelle Racoupeau
Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 The Concept
“Our thorough knowledge of cruising catamarans has enabled us to offer highly innovative solutions: the cockpits and saloons are on a single level, the tender is concealed under a protective sun deck, the cabins are extremely comfortable and all handling is grouped to be done from the helm.”
Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design
Unmistakable design and look
The Aura 51 is an impressive vessel distinguished by its towering mast and generous measurements of 51 feet LOA and 26 feet 6 inches in beam. Its sleek, harmonious lines with reverse sheer to the deck and an athletic aft sweep of the slim coach roof are distinct features that are emblematic of the renowned Fountaine-Pajot brand. Credit goes to Berret-Racoupeau for providing long-term design input that has contributed to the vessel’s unmistakable appearance. The design updates implemented on the Aura 51 from the Saba 50 are introduced harmoniously.
Grand Large Concept – Comfort & Volume
The Aura 51 replaces the Saba 50, boasting voluminous hulls and wider transom entrances. The newfangled coachroof design seamlessly integrates an extensive number of solar panels, granting copious amounts of natural illumination and a more spacious flybridge area. Subsequently, the primary bulkhead doors have the capacity to retract fully, facilitating a 3m wide opening between the saloon/galley and cockpit.
Liveability is the key to the rise and rise of the catamaran, and the Aura 51 puts natural light and its huge volume to good use. Astutely designed, the Aura 51 offers four accommodation layouts, with all cabins equipped with en suite facilities, including the six-cabin version.
Easy to manage shorthanded
Arguably the largest size catamaran without the need for a professional crew, the thought process bending the design of the Aura 51 is centred around the ease of movement onboard and at the helm. The boom is accessible for ease of access to the main sail and all control lines are drawn back to a central helm position. There is little need to engage guests aboard as your crew when navigating or docking.
Layout Options
The Aura 51 has several layout options that make it an ideal combination of a private owner’s yacht with an ambition to keep her in a charter management. The cabin options include a standard two sets of maestro cabins accessible with their own private entrance from the cockpit and a full owners Maestro with the four-cabin setup instead of the five or six-cabin setup.
Sustainability
The Aura 51 marks a new stage in the evolution of the Fountaine Pajot Sailing Catamarans range and the desire of the shipyard in La Rochelle to go further in its environmental approach
The Aura 51 is the first step from Fountaine Pajot towards moving towards a greener way of construction and also ownership of a yacht. The Aura 51 is a significant milestone for the company as it offers the yard’s first Smart Electric option. The company has collaborated with La Rochelle specialists, Alternatives Energies, to develop electric pods that consist of hydrogenerators and energy storage and management systems. The hybrid model has already been launched, and an electric and hydrogen variant is also in the works. It is commendable to witness a reputed production yard taking credible steps towards promoting cleaner boating. This move towards sustainable technology provides an excellent opportunity for eco-conscious boaters who seek to reduce their environmental footprint while experiencing the joys of watercraft.
Exterior
exterior design features and aspects
Lagoon 51 Exterior
The Lagoon 51: an entire experience of life afloat
A word from Dirk and Viktor (Yacht-Match Group co-founders):
“The buzz around the reveal of Lagoon’s newest model never really excited us, as it was unclear what they hoped to accomplish with introducing a 51-footer between their rather new model, the 50, and their current Lagoon 52. Neither the PR nor the concept presentation was convincing enough for us to grasp what the design team at Lagoon was trying to achieve with small adjustments to what seemed like an upgraded 50.
However, we may have been wrong….
When we finally got a tactile and spatial awareness of how the new features came together, it was clear that this was not just an updated version of an existing model, but rather a step towards a new set of standards that will set a precedent for the rest of the industry. The interior and exterior components, trademark Lagoon hull shape, and move towards a lighter structure with a forward mast and shorter rig and overlapping genoa make the Lagoon 51 even livelier on the water than her predecessor while introducing an emphasis on solar power that will characterise the brand’s future models.
The Lagoon 51 is no longer just a catamaran but an entire experience afloat, staying true to its core concepts while introducing more nimble sailing, hightened level of luxury and detailing and practical use of space.”
The Flybridge – the centrepiece of the Lagoon 51
The Lagoon 51 has large deck space and several social areas to relax at anchor or when sailing. It is equipped with a flybridge that covers up to 80% of its roof and with modular seating which can be easily adjusted to accommodate any number of guests, making it an ideal place to relax alongside the captain. The yacht’s double access feature comprises two staircases, one for the helmsman and another for the guests, ensuring a seamless transition between living spaces onboard.
The flybridge is designed with ample headroom which guarantees guests’ safety, both at anchor and while underway. Manoeuvres are efficiently carried out from the steering station, while the guests can comfortably move around without interfering with the helmsman. All these features make the Lagoon 51’s flybridge a unique experience, and an ideal choice for anyone looking for comfort, convenience, and luxury at sea.
Exterior to Interior – plenty of social areas
One of several key design features of the Lagoon 51 is the multiple outdoor areas perfect for entertaining and for changing the atmosphere or setting and why the Lagoon designs are so popular as a boat to spend extended time aboard.
The aft cockpit is commendable, offering ergonomic seating for up to eight people and a beautiful view of the ocean. The cockpit table is thoughtfully placed for easy access to the saloon, the starboard transom, and side decks, and it is equipped with two fold-out leaves for additional dining space. Along with a full-sized sink, drainer, refrigerator, and barbeque, this outdoor space is the ultimate entertaining area.
The Lagoon 51 comes with an optional large hydraulic lifting platform at the transom, which provides a spacious area for sunbathing, swimming, and storing a tender.
As you move along the side decks, you’ll find yourself standing at the forefront cockpit. This impressive area boasts an unobstructed view of the vast oceans and beautiful horizons. Regardless of whether you prefer resting under the sun or in the shade, the cockpit is abundant with amenities that promise optimal comfort aboard Lagoon 51.
This area boasts an inviting seating space complemented by a central coffee table and sun protection, enabling you to fully appreciate the picturesque views at your own pace. The smaller forward cockpit can accommodate up to 4-5 people with two sunbeds and a coffee table, offering a comfortable space to relax and take in the view.
The Lagoon’s design ensures that it’s not excessively weighed down forward, making it suitable for offshore and bluewater sailing without the risk of capsizing from waves.
Ease of movement and access
It’s clear that there has been plenty of attention paid to access and circulation when designing the Lagoon 51. This starts at the transoms, with easier access for stepping aboard due to their shape and positioning, which brings them closer to the dock. Their size is also more welcoming and there’s no need to jostle when getting off the dinghy – three people can stand together without getting in each other’s way. The extended transoms of the Lagoon 51 makes for effortless boarding. This feature brings safe and practical access to the dock side.
Between the transoms is an optional tenderlift or bathing platform. The tenderlift acts as a large balcony by the sea. At mooring, the platform transforms into a bathing platform.
Finding your way from transom to cockpit is easier than ever with improved access of a two-step staircase. Only two steps up and the cockpit and the entire nacelle are immediately accessible because the sugarscoops are slightly higher off the water and the thickness between the underside of the bridgedeck and the cockpit sole has been reduced.
This benefits the cockpit, whose vast surface area is divided into three zones. An adjustable plancha grill is next to the aft bench seat, a lounger occupies the starboard side, and an L-shaped bench seat surrounds the table on the port side.
Part of the seat can be shifted forward to enlarge the table when at anchor, for instance, but this hinders direct access to the flybridge.
Summary of the key exterior highlights :
- Lighter Construction + Mast Forward: Supported by a strong laminated bulkhead, powerful mainsail & genoa. The transoms have been extended for less pitching. A more lively and fun boat to sail
- Large Modular Flybridge: Optional with a fixed GRP bimini to access the boom more conveniently, with ample headroom. Lounge, seating, dining area that is accessible from both side decks. Ample room for the helm and access to control lines and winches.
- Ease of Movement: larger extended transoms,
- Plenty of Social Areas and Seating Arrangements: large flybridge, aft cockpit and a true foredeck cockpit – a catamarans for socialising.
Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 Exterior
The Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 is in the category of optimal yachts for private- and charter management ownership.
A word from Dirk and Viktor (Yacht-Match Group co-founders):
“The Fountaine Pajot was introduced to us in 2019 during the Boot Dusseldorf boat show for a select few charter companies associated to the shipyard. Back then the design ideas and concept was to improve on what had made the Saba 50 so popular, in both the private yacht ownership market and the now more important sphere of business for the shipyard – the yacht charter business. What positively suprised us back then was the clear strategy from the shipyard to incoorpate a conscious effort to introduce sustainability to the project. It’s early stages for all shipyards on this front and we can only accept that most of this is for marketing purposes only, but atleast we are seeing progress and effort. The Aura 51 had its real debute in 2023 at the International Multihull Show, where it was already communicated that the shipyard had sold an excess of 150 units to its dealer network and that lead times are now up to four years for anyone interested at the boat show to place an order for the next production slot. Clearly then, they yard must be doing something right or is it all marketing? We will leave that up for the professional yachting journailst to decide and for you as our audience to ponder, but several things are undeinably true as facts and also impresses us as yacht purchase advisors and yacht ownership specialist. The Aura 51 is an ideal bare-boat yacht for the charter market and the design appeals to many that are moving from power boating and/or from monohulls in search for space and comfort. The concept is not unique, but its trending and we can only agree that with all the modern comforts of a trendy luxury hotelroom or small apartment, the Aura 51 can also take you from A-to-B with ease even if you limited expereience sailing”.
Central Helm Position
Fountaine-Pajot vessels are outfitted with a conveniently placed bulkhead helm situated on the starboard side. This helm position allows for seamless maneuvering of the craft while offering a clear view of the canvas and thoroughfare forward due to its elevated position. The rudders of the 51 are supported with top-tier hydraulic control, negating the obligation for any physical connection to the helm. Such a feature, while not offering tactile feedback, does provide ample space forwards of the pedestal for line handling, streamlining vessel operation.
All control lines centrailised
All the active lines are gathered in two strips, which eventually converge to the three Lewmar Evo winches that are mounted on the coachroof. It should be noted that, should one desire, these winches can be electrically operated. As for the mainsheet, it is conveniently positioned athwartships, allowing for effortless handling of the line. Additionally, tidy bags for the ropes, falling deeply into the storage area, facilitate the ease of stowage. The only exception is the genoa halyard, which runs to the mast, and can only be regulated through a block and tackle system, implemented on a captive line.
Forward Mast
The Aura 51 has it’s steeped mast forward compared to its competitors the Lagoon and Bali Catamarans. This means that the mast is supported by a strong laminated bulkhead which is better for the integrity of the construction int eh long run, but also allows for a design feature where ease of access to the boom and sailing bag is priotised. The Aura 51’s stubby bowsprit is positioned at a slight angle skyward to facilitate the tacking of the gennaker or Code 0 sails. The running sheets extend aft and then double back up to additional winches on the periphery of the cockpit.
Loung and Dinning Areas
With a fly-bridge or in this case, a central elevated helm position on the Aura 51, this arrangement allows for ample exterior space is available for activities such as dining, relaxing, and water sports during anchorages.
Within the cockpit, there is a graceful teak table that comfortably seats eight individuals and can be effortlessly expanded to accommodate twelve individuals with a fold-out leaf and fill-in seat. The plancha grill located on the transom facilitates convenient food preparation. Notably, the cockpit features a raised sunbed and a sofa on the transom.
TheAura 51 is fitted with forward lounge seating that comes with an opening window from the saloon, as well as a vast 172-square-foot flybridge. The decks are flush, and an aft hydraulic platform is equipped to carry the tender while sailing and launch swimmers or divers at anchor. Particular attention has been given to ensure the platform closes smoothly to the transom skirt, providing easy access.
Summary of the key exterior highlights :
- Mast Forward/ Accessible Boom: Supported by a strong laminated
bulkhead, powerful mainsail & genoa. Safety (no climbing license needed), easy maintenance (boom end easily accessible), better performance. - XXL Lounge deck: direct access from the cockpit, a multi zone lounge (sunbed and seats), family use, and possible to seat 14 persons.
- Mid-High Central Helm: Family boat – Connection with the cockpit/salon and
the lounge deck (never alone and a feeling of protection), all control lines are centralized. - Ample Seating arrangement: for up to 11 people in the cockpit, 8 around the dining the table, space for 14 on the lounge deck, and also another 6-8 in the front cockpit.
Interior
interior design features
Lagoon 51 Interior
New Generation Interior
The Lagoon 51 is a step towards introducing new materials and design concepts that were introduced in the design process of the larger and more luxurious Lagoon 55. The mast is stepped on the fore end of the salon ensuring an uninterrupted view. The generous luminosity, emanating from the 360° vertical windows, is complemented by the exquisite wood finishes, known as “Alpi sand oak”. This spacious salon boasts impressive volume, providing effortless circulation. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, it is equipped with practical solutions characteristic of a Lagoon yacht.
Furthermore, the owner’s cabin is designed to maximize comfort, with a large walk-in dressing included as standard. This layout optimization ensures that the owner can indulge in ultimate relaxation on board.
“The stepped up lounge of the saloon offers the best 360°panoramic view over the water.”
NAUTA Design, interior designer of the Lagoon 51.
Natural Light & Natural Ventilation
The Lagoon 51 offers huge internal accommodation with ample space when the weather dictates spending time indoors. With new design features on the coachroof to make it more sleek appeal from the outside, the interior design team also spent a lot of consideration to create that roomy and light interior feel and natural ventilation as part of the Lagoon concept moving towards more sustainable and green yachting. Hatches and forced air ventilation is found through all cabins and interior space, such as the large opening hatch by the mast foot. This will be an important source of natural ventilation at the anchor.
The saloon has a large saloon table for both dining and coffee table modes and space to seat 10, although eight would be more comfortable. This area is slightly raised, with windows at eye level, although the view is blocked on both aft quarters, which makes it less suited as a watch-keeping station in inclement weather. There’s also a nav station/desk area, with space to fit a multifunction display. Natural ventilation primarily comes from big opening ports in the front coachroof windows.
The galley forms an L-shape on both sides of the aft end of the saloon, with a sink, small dishwasher, and four-burner gas cooker to port. To starboard is an extensive fridge/freezer capacity totaling almost 400 liters.
Worktop space is impressive on both sides and fiddles are high enough to contain liquid spills and keep items in place in rough seas. Stowage is excellent, including eye-level lockers, drawers, and lockers below the countertop, plus large underfloor volumes. There’s also a dedicated space for a coffee machine, while a washer/dryer can be fitted in the starboard hull and an additional 100 liters freezer in the port hull.
Lagoon 51 layout options
The Lagoon 51 has several layout options suited for small families or larger groups making it an optimal hybrid between a traditional holiday-making yacht and a live-aboard vessel. All double cabin layout options have their own separate shower stalls. What is unique for the Lagoon compared to its competitors, are the additional midship cabins that as made possible by the voluminous hull shape and design of the Lagoon. This allows for sleeping guests and a crew up to 14 people.
The mid cabin is the smallest of cabins and has limited stowage, while the forward one has the best stowage, but shares the head and shower. An option with two cabins in the port hull is also offered. With this arrangement, the forward cabin doesn’t gain additional floor space but becomes fully en-suite and there’s even more stowage.
Furthermore, the owner’s hull is even more luxurious, with its vanity/dressing area fitted as standard. As for the port hull, it offers three berths in the standard version. The furniture and decor, signed by Italy’s Nauta Design, is as warm as ever, and the materials are plush. The owner’s accommodation in the starboard hull is palatial, with huge hull windows that eliminate the semi-basement feel some older multihulls have. There are also massive stowage volumes in a range of formats, right down to the organisation of paperwork, plus a corner sofa and big dressing table/desk.
The huge bathroom forward has his and hers basins, a completely enclosed toilet and big shower.
Smart Systems & Connectivity
The many onboard systems make this yacht as comfortable and easy to live on as any home on shore, although maintenance is obviously more complex and onerous.
The Lagoon 51 is offered with the Seanapps-application which is a smart box that simplifies your boat’s management and maintenance. Whether you want to check your fuel and battery charge levels, or schedule maintenance operations, Seanappshelps you streamline and safeguard your boat’s maintenance requirements simply and easily.
The watermaker produces 100lt per hour on 12V, so can be run from the solar panels, even though it draws 40A. It’s easily accessed, under the floor of the port aft cabin. Equally, the extensive fridge and freezer capacities will provide a huge length of self-sufficiency before needing to reprovision or refuel.
Summary of the key interior highlights :
- Various Layout Options: ideal combination for a private ownership with a charter management.
- Luxurious feel and styling (improved for Lagoon 51 and 55)
- Lounge and seating arrangement for large groups both inside and outside
- True Forward Cockpit
- After Cockpit with outdoor cooking options and wetbar
- Large Entertaining area in both the galley and cockpit and good use of light and ease of movement and flow due to large sliding doors
- Good airflow in all cabins due plenty of hatches on and opening windows
- Plenty of stowage possibilities
Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 Interior
An extract from the boat test on Swedish couple the Salen’s Aura 51: (from article & review by Toy Hodges/ Yachting World)
“…the highly experienced sailing couple who own the second Aura 51 to launch and the boat we trialled. Johan Salen, co-owner of The Ocean Race (formerly the Volvo Ocean Race), lives and works aboard full time with his wife, Christine, and their dog Leo.
The Salen’s spent three years sailing their previous performance catamaran, an Outremer 5X, around the world with their son. But after seven years living ashore since then, they wanted a more comfortable boat, yet one still capable of averaging 8-10 knots. The Salen’s rarely go to marinas so maneuvering from the single helm hasn’t been an issue…
The couple made another salient point: “When you spend a lot of time aboard, you are not sailing most of the time,” Johan explained. “Even with our Outremere 5X we were sailing less than 10% of the time.” The Swedish ex-professional windsurfer considers it more important now to have the space to ship the right equipment and watersports toys to enjoy at anchor…
“It’s the toys you can bring to enjoy life that is one of the main benefits a catamaran brings,” says Johan”
Read more here: Swedish couple move from Outremer to Fountaine Pajot Aura
Dining or Lounging
The cockpit area plays host to the main dining area, and the design by Berret Racoupeau has effectively enhanced the connectivity to the galley. The Aura 51’s voluminous interior is accentuated by the use of natural light, which is a notable feature. The saloon of the Aura 51 boasts an extensive area, complete with a generous island that serves as the social hub, akin to a modern home. The aft doors can be fully slid back, providing an expansive 10-foot opening with the island galley in the center. This arrangement is perfect for facilitating traffic flow between the galley and the saloon while having easy access to the work surfaces and waste bin from the cockpit. The coachroof windows and long, large skylights, together with the opening forward window, make it a naturally bright space with valuable ventilation.
This yacht has been designed with flexibility in mind. Deep, comfortable sofas are present in the saloon’s forward and starboard sides, making it an ideal area for watchkeeping, movie nights, or coffee with visitors. Additionally, if the outside temperature is too low, you can dine indoors since the yacht has a removable table. At the centerline, there is a chaise lounge, referred to as the “meridian” by Fountaine-Pajot; this is an excellent place to oversee instruments, steer the yacht remotely using a tablet, and monitor the sails through the skylight overhead.
Double Cabins Galore
The Aura 51 provides an exceptional example of a catamaran that boasts a remarkable level of livability, an ever-growing trend on the rise.
The cabin configuration can accommodate a range of guests, from four ensuites cabins to six, and the option of having two aft-most cabins with their companionways that emerge to the aft deck is ideal for charter guests or older children.
The owner’s hull boasts a significant amount of headroom and space, with a sculpted out bulkhead used to open up the cabin area. It offers ample liveaboard comfort, with a spacious changing area opposite the wardrobes, and direct aft deck access – the crowning feature. The desk amidships is an essential addition that Johan uses as his office constantly.
In the starboard hull, a bulkhead separates the aft cabin, meaning access is only feasible from the cockpit. Each of the three cabins in this hull feels large, with its own ensuite, even if the athwartship berth forward has a slightly more prestigious feel. The size of the separate heads area would be appreciated in most homes.
Every cabin has been carefully crafted to offer at least two sources of natural light and air ventilation openings. Finally, a heating and air conditioning package is optionally available for convenience regardless of the weather.
Summary of the key interior highlights :
- Various Layout Options: ideal combination for a private ownership with a charter management.
- VIP Cabins with private entrance from the cockpit
- Lounge and seating arrangement for large groups both inside and outside
- Large Entertaining area in both the galley and cockpit and good use of light and ease of movement and flow due to large sliding doors
- Good airflow in all cabins due plenty of hatches on and opening windows
- Full sized double bed cabins even on a 6 cabin layout – unique for a 51ft catamaran
- Plenty of stowage possibilities
Key highlights
THE TWO YACHTS COMPARED TO EACH OTHER
Lagoon 51 Key highlights
- Entirely new Exterior and Interior Design: new luxury feel and thoughtful upgrades that makes both practical and aesthetical sense: such as interior saloon concept, transom, rig and sail plan, coach roof design, and the flybridge.
- New improved rig, sail set up and lighter construction: improved sailing capabilities, lighter and stronger construction, more space in the interior saloon, more livelier sailing experience
- New improved materials and finishing: the Lagoon 51 takes from the same design principles as the more luxuiours L55.
- Social Areas: plenty of well designed social areas which includes the Flybridge, cockpit, bathing platform, and the forward cockpit.
Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 Key highlights
- Sleek lines yet a voluminous catamaran with plenty of options to entertain large number of guests
- Redesigned and refined use of galley to connect saloon with cockpit
- Private VIP Aft Cabins with gullwing door entrance from the aft cockpit
- Plenty of cabin layout options all with double island beds all ensuite
- XXL - Lounge to entertain up to 14 people and be close to the sailing action
Lagoon 51 Pros- & Cons
- Mast Forward: attached to strongest part of the boat
- Improved Sailing Capabilities: lighter construction, mast forward, large genoa and new sail setup, extended transoms
- New generation Interior: new materials, raised saloon, improved finish, natural ventilation
- Social Areas - plenty of seating and entertainment areas outside and inside
- Large Stowage units/options
- True Owners hull with walk in closet
- Cabin Layout Options: optimal for small family ownership or charter ownership
- No daggerboards - impedes upwind sailing charateristics and performance
- Negligible visibility from the flybridge to the port side, particularly aft: You need to dock starboard side or else rely on help from cameras.
- Negligible visibility from the flybridge sailing with large code-zero or overlapping genoa
- Volume at the cost off sailing capability: pithcing, rooling, slamming affect and no upwind performance. Large catamarans needs more wind to be able to sail.
- Heads and Bathrooms: so many fixed heads and bathrooms are not needed for a short stay, or a smaller family or couple that owns the Lagoon 51.
Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 Pros- & Cons
- Mast Forward: attached to strongest part of the boat and allows access to the boom (sails)
- XXL Lounge rather that beam to beam Flybridge: a multizone lounge and keeps free of the helm station and allows better access to the boom/sails.
- Impressive lounge options both inside and outside with plenty of seating arrangements
- Cabin layout variations with VIP aft cabins
- Redefined galley area with good circular movement from cockpit to saloon and a ventilated cooking area
- Large stowage units
- Lead time excess of 4 years
- For entertaining large number of guest: Not really a couples boat nor a small family boat
- Forward cockpit is plain and not in par with the rest of the stylish approach and seating arrangements on the yacht
- Interior space at the cost of seaworthiness and handling and performance
- No access to the coach roof or boom from the foredeck of the yacht
- Hydraulic steering linkage with little to no feedback at all
- Negligible visibility from the single helm to the port side, particularly aft: You need to dock starboard side or else rely on help from cameras.
Price - CFP - Market Investment Value
Key differences
Reviewing the Purchase price and recommended options list and the Charter Feasibility Projections and finally the expected market value of the investment after charter.
Lagoon 51 Price and Options
Layout Options
4 Cab Owner Suite inc midship cabin + 3 Heads with 3 bathrooms
4 Cabins + 4 bathrooms
6 Cabins + 4 bathrooms
Optional: 5 Cab Owner Suite inc midship cabin + 3 Heads with 3 bathrooms
Option: 2 skipper cabins in front
Rec. Options
€379 511
Yard Price
€1. 070 900
Total Price
€1. 450 411
Lagoon 51 Charter Feasibility Projection
Anticipated Charters
17 weeks
Breakeven
13 weeks
EBITDA Season
T.b.d: BVI/ USVI Operations with possibility for double season in Europe
EBITDA %
-
Lagoon 51 MARKET & INVESTMENT VALUE
Launched, Build, Expiry
Launched 2022,
Build ca 50/ annually,
Sold 170 units already
Launched 55 units so far
Market Value 2023
Average Price 1. 484 000 €
Yacht Prices
Lagoon 51 - 2021: 898.578 €*
Lagoon 51 - 2022: 973.500 €*
Lagoon 51 - 2023: 1.039.876 €*
*(Standard/ex options)
Expected Resale Value
65% within 4 years
60% 5-7 years
50% after 7 years
Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 Price and Options
Layout Options
Double Maestro version
2 Owners Suites + 2 Bathrooms / 2 double cabins + 2 Bathrooms
Full Maestro version
1 Big Owner Suite + 1 Bathroom / 3 double cabins + 3 Bathrooms
Maestro 5 cabins version
1 Owner Suite + 1 Bathroom / 4 double cabins + 4 Bathrooms
6 cabins version
6 double cabins + 6 Bathrooms
Yard Price
€1. 064 400
Rec. Options
€309 949
Total Price
€1. 374 349
Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 Charter Feasibility Projection
Anticipated Charters
17 weeks
Breakeven
13 weeks
EBITDA Season
T.b.d: BVI/ USVI Operations with possibility for double season in Europe
EBITDA %
-
Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 MARKET & INVESTMENT VALUE
Launched, Build, Expiry
Launched 2022,
Build ca 45/ annually,
Sold 160 units already
Launched 25 units so far
Market Value 2023
Average Price 1.480.000 €
Yacht Prices
Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 - 2020: 742.662 €*
Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 - 2021: 846.589 €*
Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 - 2022: 922.782 €*
Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 - 2023: 1.047.000 €*
*(Standard/ex options)
Expected Resale Value
65% within 4 years
60% 5-7 years
50% after 7 years
