Outremer 52 Review: Performance Cruising Catamaran Tested

The Outremer 52 is a performance cruising catamaran designed to combine speed, safety, and long-term livability. Created by VPLP with input from Patrick Le Quément and interiors by Darnet Design, it builds on the proven 51 while introducing refinements from the larger 55.

In this review, we look beyond the brochure claims to assess how the Outremer 52 performs under sail, how it functions as a liveaboard yacht, and whether it delivers on its promise as a capable bluewater cruiser.

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Specifications at a Glance

The Outremer 52 combines moderate dimensions with a lightweight build and a powerful sail plan, reflecting its focus on performance cruising.

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Design and Concept

The Outremer 52 was created by VPLP with styling from Patrick Le Quément and interiors by Darnet Design, intended as a careful evolution of the 51 rather than a radical shift. More glass and a reworked cockpit-to-saloon link make the layout feel contemporary, though the focus remains on practicality over show. The result is a yacht that looks modern but keeps its priorities in sailing efficiency and long-distance function.

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Performance Under Sail

In testing, the Outremer 52 showed the ability to hold steady speeds of 10–12 knots, which places it among the faster cruising catamarans of its size. It remains responsive at the helm, though lighter conditions still demand attentive trimming to keep momentum. For long passages, it offers the potential for 200–250 mile daily runs, a performance level that balances ambition with realism.

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Helm and Deck Layout

The helm station is logically arranged, giving the skipper direct access to sail controls while keeping the lines clear of the lounging space. Visibility is good, though the raised position will still require attention in crowded harbors. What stands out is the connection between helm, cockpit, and saloon, which allows the boat to remain practical for both serious passage-making and day-to-day living.

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Interior and Livability

The saloon opens directly into the cockpit through a wide bay window, giving the interior a sense of space without relying on heavy finishes or ornament. Cabins are bright and straightforward, with the forward “My Free Space” offering flexibility as an office, storage, or children’s cabin depending on need. While practical for long stays aboard, the design favors function over indulgence, staying true to the boat’s performance focus.

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On-Board Experience

Life aboard the Outremer 52 centers on a cockpit that feels protected without being enclosed, linking naturally with the saloon. Light and ventilation are strong points, making the yacht comfortable in warm climates as well as on longer passages. Movement around the boat is practical, though the focus remains on efficiency rather than the oversized lounging spaces found on heavier cruising cats.

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Build Quality and Construction

The Outremer 52 uses lightweight laminates and structural techniques shared with Gunboat, allowing strength without excess weight. Bulkheads and hulls feel robust, designed with offshore reliability in mind rather than pure comfort at anchor. The emphasis on stiffness and weight savings makes the yacht responsive under sail, though it also means less tolerance for careless loading compared with heavier cruising cats.

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Notable Features

• Full-width bay window that opens the saloon to the cockpit without breaking structural stiffness.
• “My Free Space” forward cabin adaptable as storage, office, or children’s room.
• Helm seating for two with ergonomic positioning, practical for long passages.
• High glass surfaces for visibility and natural light, uncommon on performance-focused cats.

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Pros and Cons

Pros:

The Outremer 52 can sustain 10–12 knot averages, making it a serious passagemaker rather than a coastal cruiser. Its helm and sail-handling layout is efficient for short-handed crews, reducing workload without sacrificing control. Build quality is high, with strong structural stiffness that holds up under offshore conditions.

Cons:

The galley and interior storage feel more compact than some heavier cruising catamarans, which may limit provisioning for longer voyages. High demand means delivery times are extended, often stretching several years. Its lighter displacement also requires more care in loading, as uneven weight distribution can affect sailing trim.

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Recognition and Awards

The Outremer 52 was awarded European Yacht of the Year 2024, a recognition that highlights both its design and real-world capability. Industry reviews consistently note its balance of speed and comfort, placing it among the most versatile performance catamarans in its class. While awards validate its reputation, the yacht’s appeal ultimately lies in how well it translates design intentions into practical offshore use.

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Pricing and Availability

The base price of the Outremer 52 is around €1.3 million before tax, with fully equipped versions often listed between $1.65 and $1.98 million. Strong demand has created lead times of two to three years, making early planning essential for prospective buyers. On the resale market, opportunities remain limited, reflecting both production volume and the yacht’s popularity among long-term owners.

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Verdict

The Outremer 52 is a thoughtful evolution of a proven platform, offering genuine bluewater performance without sacrificing day-to-day livability. It appeals most to sailors who value speed and handling but still want a yacht that can serve as a comfortable home on long passages.

While not the most spacious catamaran in its class, its balance of efficiency, safety, and design makes it one of the stronger choices for serious cruising.