Leopard 46 Review: Does This Catamaran Live Up to the Hype?

The Leopard 46 has now had time to prove itself. Designed by Morelli & Melvin and built by Robertson & Caine, it was launched as an evolution of the Leopard 45—offering more interior flexibility, updated hull lines, and an optional hybrid-electric drive. Marketed as a well-rounded cruiser for private owners and charter fleets alike, the Leopard 46 makes big promises. A year in, it’s time to look at how well it holds up in real conditions—on the water and at anchor.

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Layout and Space

The Leopard 46 keeps things simple and familiar, which works in its favor. The saloon and aft cockpit connect cleanly, creating a usable day-to-day living area without trying to be clever. Ventilation is solid, headroom is generous, and nothing feels cramped unless you’re in the tighter 5-cabin layout.

The 3-cabin version with a utility room is the most practical if you're cruising seriously—it adds storage and workspace where most boats of this size don’t. The 4- and 5-cabin versions are fine for charter but start to feel tight on personal space. Storage is decent overall, though not abundant. Overall, the layout doesn’t surprise, but it doesn’t disappoint either.

It’s functional, sensible, and clearly built for use, not just aesthetics.

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How It Performs

Under sail, the Leopard 46 handles predictably. It’s not built for racing, but it moves well enough in light air and stays comfortable in heavier wind. The hulls track cleanly, and the helm feels steady—if a bit muted. Sail controls are manageable for a short-handed crew, though some lines could be better positioned for easier trimming underway.

The optional hybrid system is a talking point, but in practice, it’s more of a supplement than a game-changer. Electric-only cruising works at low speeds, but range is limited unless the generator kicks in. The standard twin diesels are more reliable for extended trips. Maneuvering in tight spaces is straightforward, and visibility from the helm is good. Like the rest of the boat, performance is competent—not exciting, but dependable.

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Comfort and Usability

Living aboard the Leopard 46 is straightforward. The layout makes daily movement easy, with wide walkways, solid grab points, and minimal tripping hazards. The interior finishes are clean but not luxurious—more functional than decorative. Ventilation is effective, especially with the forward saloon windows and opening hatches in the cabins. Natural light is good throughout, and the saloon doesn’t feel boxed in, even on overcast days.

Storage is adequate for extended cruising, though you’ll need to stay organized. The utility room (if you have it) helps a lot with gear overflow or adding a washer-dryer. Access to systems like plumbing and electrical is generally good, with labeled panels and decent clearance.

It’s not a boat that impresses with wow factor, but it’s comfortable in a way that holds up over time.

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Price and Options

The base price for the Leopard 46 sits around the mid-$500K range, but that number climbs quickly once you start adding options. The hybrid-electric drivetrain alone adds a significant premium, and while it appeals to eco-minded sailors, it may not justify the cost for everyone. Other upgrades—like additional refrigeration, solar, or electronics—can push the total well past $1 million.

Compared to similar catamarans in its class, the Leopard 46 lands somewhere in the middle. It’s more refined than entry-level models, but doesn’t reach the high-end finish or customization of a Privilege or HH. What you’re paying for is a solid platform with good systems, flexible layout options, and support from an established builder. It’s not cheap, but it feels fairly priced for what it offers.

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Who It’s For

The Leopard 46 is best suited for sailors who want a capable cruising cat without going oversized or overcomplicated. It makes sense for liveaboards who value space and practicality, and it’s a solid option for charter fleets looking for a reliable, mid-range multihull. The hybrid system may appeal to early adopters, but the diesel version will likely be the go-to for most buyers.

It’s not the most luxurious, fastest, or most innovative catamaran out there—but that’s not the point. It’s a well-rounded boat that prioritizes usability over flash. If you’re looking for something that works out of the box, does what it says, and holds up over time, the Leopard 46 earns a serious look.

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Takeaway

The Leopard 46 doesn’t try to impress with gimmicks—it focuses on getting the essentials right. It’s not the flashiest catamaran in its class, but it delivers where it counts: space, usability, and dependable performance.

For sailors who want a boat that works hard without trying too hard, this one’s worth a serious look.