FP's new 47 Saona catamaran

[Thalas]

BTW here's a new walkthrough in German on youtube that has a ton more b-roll footage from the debut video of the Saona in action...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QOtjOVOXRo

[dschwindt]

Thank you for the info and picture.

[Zzmeyer]

Originally Posted by CalmSeasQuest

I reviewing the Saona options list, I note they now offer a Yanmar option

AJH80C - 80HP - $21,305.66
4JH57C - 57HP - $14,913.01

I hadn't noticed this before. If I'm reading it right, the costs "appear" to be an upcharge from 50HP the Volvos.

I also understand there is an option to delete the galley island to enable enough space for a full sized dining table (or split table option) in the saloon.

Our short list in down to the L450S and Saona - Chartering a 450S in BVI next week (although an orange X off Cabo Verde may interfere with our plans) and am looking forward to getting aboard a Saona in Annapolis.

Yes. The Yanmar is an upcharge which is a bit annoying as most manufacturers go standard with Yanmar. I just went with Yanmar as I have had them trouble free for more than 25 years. Lots of the blogs talk about problems with their Volvo. Although an upcharge, the smaller Yanmar option (57hp) is almost as much power as the upcharged Volvo at 60 hp. (albeit a much smaller upcharge). The L450S is about the same size as the Saona 47 so I will be interested in your comparison. A number of posters do not like the split cockpit on the Saona, but I love it. If you have two people the trimmer is not in the way of the helmsman. I'm on autopilot most of the time so it is easy to single hand. I like that the helm is up a step which gives better visibility forward (but not aft port).

[Thalas]

I agree about the split helm IF autopilot is working. I know the Wynns are controlling their Garmin AP via their watch to initiate and end tacks. This would be an ideal way for a single hander to tack on the FP. But what about when it's down? I guess with electric winches you can reach behind you for the wheel.

I used to prefer the Leopard layout, but yes, would def get crowded with 2 people trying to work.

[Zzmeyer]

You raise a point raised while I was choosing options. I have experience with Raymarine and BandG but not Garmin. To me reliability is key. The dealer stated the only reliable instrument you need is the autopilot. There are lots of backups for everything else. Perhaps a touch simplistic but an interesting point.