Lagoon 450 S

A 100 mile test of this evolutionary design

As a company which is consistently listening to their customers, Lagoon is offering the SporTop evolution on their 52 and 450 catamarans. They are aimed at cruising families who would rather have a helm station closer to the boat’s main central living area. We took the opportunity to jump aboard during a delivery to the Mediterranean of this new 2015 model. From La Rochelle to Arcachon, we were set for a 117 mile expedition!

In challenging conditions, the 450S has confirmed the same willingness that the flybridge version had shown in lighter weather.

In light airs the SporTop benefits from a big overlapping Code 0 in D4 membrane. Very effective! Note the rib at the forward end of the hull created by the 2015 remodeling.

On the SporTop version, the boom is 70cm lower, but the sail area remains the same.

Access to the mast via a flight of steps directly from the helm station is nice and safe, but the skeg keels are a lethal weapon in tidal areas or in coral.

The first rays of light in the early autumn morning at the bar at the entrance to the Bay of Arcachon following a quick crossing from La Rochelle.

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Practical info

Boat Test price5.00€ Inc. tax

Purchase

Boat Test price5.00€ Inc. tax

Purchase

Flybridge or semi-flybridge? Your choice according to your program

Visitors to the Cannes’ International Festival of Yachting were able to see the world première of the new 52 S, and those who were at the La Rochelle boat show were the first to see the 450 S. These two new models incorporate the new SporTop helm station principal. This is a bigger development than you might think, because Lagoon have not been offering an alternative option to the flybridge since the 440 first appeared. But particularly because this new setup has demanded substantial technical and ergonomic modifications which influence the boat’s behavior and use. The yard has also taken advantage of this new version to launch a partially re-styled interior for both the flybridge and SporTop versions.

Tested in lively conditions in an autumn gale, the new SporTop helm station shows itself to be practical and comfortable. Excellent feedback from the helm and efficient rudders.

The SporTop: A traditional helm station revisited:

When in 2004 the 440 popularized the flybridge on medium-sized catamarans, it almost caused a revolution: its popularity with the public was established and encouraged Lagoon to...

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