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Outremer 48, a new generation of bluewater cruising catamaran

Outremer 48 combines performance, 360-degree visibility and increased payload capacity in a catamaran designed for bluewater cruising

The new Outremer 48 by VPLP Design measures 14.63 metres and combines 121 m² of upwind sail area with a four-tonne payload

With the new Outremer 48, Outremer is updating its approach to bluewater cruising catamarans. Presented in world premiere in 2026, the 14.63-metre model is designed to combine performance, payload capacity and increased comfort while keeping long-distance sailing at the centre of the project.

A new balance between performance and comfort

The Outremer 48 was developed with VPLP Design for naval architecture, Patrick Le Quément as design consultant and Darnet Design for the interiors.

The project retains the lightweight philosophy traditionally associated with the yard while introducing more generous volumes and a payload capacity of up to four tonnes. Declared displacement ranges from 10.5 to 14.5 tonnes, with a beam of 7.55 metres.

360-degree visibility from saloon and cockpit

Visibility is one of the defining features of the new model. Large openings provide an uninterrupted 360-degree view from both the saloon and cockpit, intended to improve situational awareness as well as life on board.

The forward-facing watch seat inside the saloon allows the crew to monitor the surroundings without necessarily going on deck, an advantage during night watches or in less favourable weather conditions.

An adaptable helm station

The steering system follows an approach already used on the Outremer 52 and 55. The wheel can pivot into four different positions, allowing the helmsman to choose the most suitable steering position according to sailing conditions.

The helm station also features a double seat, designed to make two-person watches more comfortable. Cockpit ergonomics aim to keep controls accessible while offering protection from the elements.

Flexible interior layouts

The Outremer 48 can be configured through ten different layouts. The forward port cabin in particular can become a single, double or triple cabin, an office, a convertible workshop, a children’s cabin or a dressing area.

Additional storage capacity and larger working surfaces reflect the needs of owners spending extended periods aboard. Accessibility to onboard systems was also considered from the early design stages, with technical areas designed to simplify inspection and maintenance.

121 square metres of upwind sail area

The sail plan includes an 86 m² mainsail and a 35 m² Solent jib, providing a combined upwind sail area of 121 m². Additional sails include a 54 m² genoa, 150 m² gennaker and 180 m² spinnaker.

Draught ranges from 1.25 to 2.25 metres and air draught is 21.50 metres. Standard propulsion specified by the yard consists of two 38 hp engines.

SailCharge introduces regenerative propulsion

Among the available options is SailCharge, Outremer’s regenerative hybrid propulsion system. The concept uses sailing performance as part of the energy strategy, regenerating electricity while under sail and reducing dependence on a generator.

The system can also provide electric propulsion for harbour manoeuvres. Its environmental benefit depends on the actual operating profile and on how much energy can be regenerated during sailing.

A catamaran developed to go further

The Outremer 48 represents an evolution of the yard’s philosophy rather than simply an increase in size. The objective is to maintain a favourable relationship between weight, sail area and performance while adding greater payload capacity and more flexible living spaces.

Its 2026 world premiere introduced a model designed for sailors who use a catamaran as a genuine travelling platform, where speed, straightforward handling, autonomy and onboard comfort need to coexist within the same design.

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Outremer 48

02 October 2026
© MED Yachting Editorial Team
Outremer 48, a new generation of bluewater cruising catamaran
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