Unrealistic for this
boat to do 15 knots in 15knts of wind!
Although in 20-25 kts have maintained 12-13 with bursts to 15 with full
jib and 1 reef on a reach. Have also done the same with 2
reefs in 30 knts.
Boat does not feel any different with 1-2
reefs and handles nicely. (Again coming out of monohulls had to get use to sailing by the numbers and not the feel of the helm).
Have proven this consistently over the last year. She will go faster but since I put my
racing in the background for awhile have not had the need to go any faster while running up and down the
Caribbean. I also have a screecher that allows me to sail upwind instead of motoring in 6-8 knots of
wind as well as an asym for downwind.
Have been faster than some of the new French cats with square top mains but get waterlined with some of the bigger cats.
Coming from a racing background I wanted a cat that you could feel the
helm and actually sailed to
weather. I also think folding props are a must. For the
money I had to spend I feel that I have found it. Without mentioning any specific names I have sailed many cruising cats (some that you mentioned) that felt like I was driving my house and did not want that type of boat. My boat is very comfortable, fast and easy to care for but most importantly it is a SAILBOAT!
My suggestion is for you to sail some of the other cats you have mentioned and not just in heavy air but upwind in the lighter stuff and then see what you think. You won't find an Atlantic 48 for the same
price of a Voyage 440 or a Moorings 46 for that matter but if
money is no object buy a Gunboat. Also would recommend the
Outremer but limited
headroom for taller individuals. Many other
boats out there so good luck in finding what suits you.