Eleuthera 60

There was a time, not too long ago, when a 50’ catamaran was a big boat. But each year, at boat show after boat show we discover new models, always just that little bit longer. Most of the big builders now have a big catamaran of around 60’ in their catalogue. At first sight, the scale of the Eleuthera is surprising. From a distance, its size is not obvious; it was not until a Bahia tied up alongside that it became really apparent, the 46-footer appeared very small! From the first glance, the practiced eye will recognise both the ‘Fountaine-Pajot’ look, and the builder’s trademark, the Eleuthera’s cabin top, which is both aesthetically pleasing and provides protection against the greenhouse effect. On the other hand, the hulls are revolutionary. The rather round lines and more ‘feminine’ form of the Joubert / Nivelt boats have given way to a Berret / Racoupeau hull design with tighter, more modern lines, as seen on the Marquises; the lateral opening hatches along the hulls have been replaced with very harmoniously-shaped oblong portholes. On deck, ventilation is obtained by round hatches, as on the Lavezzi. Generous freeboard makes a ladder essential for climbing aboard from a p...