Leopard Catamarans unveils the all-new Leopard 52: The most versatile sailing catamaran in its class
by Leopard Catamarans 8 Sep 23:00 NZST
Leopard Catamarans proudly announces the world premiere of its latest sailing catamaran, the Leopard 52, set to debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival on Tuesday, September 9.
This new model, replacing the successful Leopard 50, represents a bold evolution in design, comfort, and performance, while staying true to the brand's DNA of building robust, blue-water cruising catamarans.
"The Leopard 52 is without a doubt the most versatile catamaran in its class," said Franck Bauguil, Senior Vice President of Yacht Ownership & Product Development. "From private owners and long-term liveaboards to charter guests and families, this yacht adapts to every lifestyle with unmatched flexibility. We are very proud to bring such a forward-looking model to the market."
Innovation and versatility
The Leopard 52 offers an unprecedented number of interior layouts, ranging from a dedicated 3-cabin liveaboard configuration with utility room to a 6-cabin charter layout, each with ensuite head and shower. An optional crew cabin and multiple cockpit table choices further customize the onboard experience.
Designed to maximize comfort and social connection, the new model integrates a fully opening saloon and aft cockpit for seamless indoor-outdoor living, along with a watertight forward door that offers direct foredeck access, enhancing both safety and ventilation. Upgraded interior finishes, indirect lighting, and refined details throughout create an atmosphere closer to a luxury residence than a traditional yacht.
Performance refined
The Leopard 52 is not only larger but also faster and more agile than its predecessor. Thanks to refined hull design and years of advanced CFD modeling, naval architects Simonis Voogd Design achieved a significant reduction in pitching motion, improved seakeeping, and optimized turning ability.
"The new Leopard 52 belongs to a new generation of catamarans that achieve better stability and comfort while offering a larger rig and more sail power," said Alexander Simonis of Simonis Voogd Design. "Owners can expect less motoring and more pure sailing pleasure."
Built by Robertson & Caine in South Africa, the Leopard 52 benefits from decades of boatbuilding expertise. Compared to the Leopard 50, the design team has calculated a 17% increase in up-wind sail area, ensuring stronger performance and an even more rewarding sailing experience.
With a taller mast, overlapping genoa, and optional square-top mainsail, the Leopard 52 delivers superior performance across a wide range of conditions—making it a true blue-water cruising catamaran.
Sustainability and smart technology
Eco-conscious features include optional integrated 4 x 400W solar panels, lithium battery systems, and a new hybrid electric propulsion package developed in partnership with Joool, capable of hydro-regeneration while under sail. Owners can also opt for fully electric cooking and appliances, reducing reliance on LPG and maximizing energy efficiency on board.
A global debut
Following its world premiere at the Cannes Yachting Festival, the Leopard 52 will make its US debut at the Annapolis Sailboat Show in October 2025.
In addition to private ownership, the new model will be available through The Moorings as the Moorings 5200, offered both in charter and through the yacht ownership program.