Review: Fountaine Pajot Saba 50 Catamaran

Construction and Design

Measuring 49.15 feet in length, the Saba 50 is a practical size — large enough to offer roomy accommodations, but not so large as to sacrifice maneuverability and handling.  The boat includes fixed keels and fine entry hulls, both of which contribute to ease of handling.  The vessel is also lightweight, thanks to the vacuum-bagged PVC-foam-core laminate used in the construction.  The deck and cabin have been sprayed with gelcoat and produced through Resin Transfer Molding (RTM), which gives every surface an elegant, polished look.

Performance

Performance is one of the things that people who own or charter the Saba 50 rave about.  Under the right conditions, you can easily achieve 9-11 knots while sailing, and may even be able to push above 14 knots with the right wind.  This is surprising considering the size of the vessel, but this is where that lightweight construction comes into play.

You can of course also run the Saba 50 with the 55hp Volvo Penta D2 diesels it comes equipped with.  You can expect to go through about a gallon of fuel per hour, which includes what you need to run the generator. 

Saloon and Cabins

What you find below deck in terms of accommodations depends on the layout you choose. 

There are three different layouts for the Saba 50:

• The Quintet: 5 cabins, including a double skipper cabin.  You have the option of 1-2 bow cabins with this layout.
• The Maestro: 4 cabins, again with the option for 1-2 bow cabins.  Every guest suite includes its own separate bathroom.
• ACY Hybrid: This version combines features from the two above, and may optionally include 1-2 single forward cabins. 

Down among the cabins, you will find plenty of shelves providing ample storage space.  The cabins themselves feature high ceilings and natural light through large windows. This prevents them from feeling cramped in any way.  You will find a double bed inside each of them. 

The saloon is gorgeous, featuring beautiful lines in its design and a breathtaking panoramic view through a set of wide windows.  There is a lavish leather sofa where you can relax and enjoy the view in comfort.  The vessel comes with an option for a small coffee table or a full-size pull-out table which is ideal for entertaining up to 8 people.  Even more sunlight pours in from above through a series of skylights. 

Kitchen and Bathrooms

Across from the sofa in the saloon, you will find the kitchen.  As with every other part of this boat, the kitchen is very roomy, giving you plenty of counter space to work with and even a kitchen island.  There are large sinks for washing dishes, a fridge and freezer, a microwave, and a stove. 

As mentioned previously, each of the cabins has an attached bathroom.  Like the kitchen, the bathrooms are fully functional, providing everything you could possibly need for your comfort.  You can take a hot shower every day—or several if you need to.  In fact, there are overhead portholes with ladders, so you can climb directly from the bathroom up to the deck or back down.  This can be incredibly useful if you have been out swimming and want to wash the salt and sand off right away. 

On Deck

On deck, the Saba 50 is just as gorgeous and airy as it is inside.  The saloon is set on the same level, so only a set of glass doors separates the interior from the exterior, allowing for a seamless flow of living pace.  There is so much open space on deck, and a number of relaxing areas to sit and enjoy the wind, sunshine and fresh air.  The most noteworthy is the lounge up on top which offers a commanding view of your surroundings.  The lounge chaises onboard the Saba 50 are adjustable to your needs. 

As for the helm station, it is separate from the sail handling area, which keeps crew members from getting in each others’ way.  It offers 360 degrees of visibility and is protected from sun and wind by an awning with the option for a full enclosure.  The deck was designed with freedom of movement in mind and open, direct communication.  It is easy for crew members in the cockpit and helm station to converse with one another or speak with passengers in the lounge deck.

Conclusion: The Fountaine Pajot Saba 50 Catamaran Combines Style, Performance and Comfort for Unparalleled Luxury

If you have been searching for the perfect charter to travel the Croatian coast with a large group, you are not going to find a better option than the Fountaine Pajot Saba 50 Catamaran.  This vessel provides a seamless indoor-outdoor living space complete with all the amenities you would find in the most upscale land-based hotel.  It is fuel-efficient and handles beautifully.  You will be enchanted the moment you step onboard, and will never want to disembark.

Danielis Yachting has Saba 50 available for booking in Croatia.  The Fountaine Pajot Saba 50 Catamaran is in high demand for 2017, so be sure to book your reservation as soon as possible for the upcoming year!