– Lagoon 46 –
Coastal day trips, Bluewater cruising, entertaining with friends, or enjoying the peacefulness of the open ocean; the Lagoon 46 can do it all.
Replacing the ever-successful Lagoon 450 in 2019, this revolutionary model from CNB Lagoon has taken the cruising catamaran market to new heights. With close to 500 hulls built in the first four years of production, this model is on track to become the most popular cruising catamaran to date. But what makes this model so unique and attractive to those planning a Bluewater adventure? Let’s dive into it.
Forward cockpit with seating and sun lounging. Articulated headrest for added comfort.
The central flybridge helm position gives superior visibility with all
electronics and winches within arms' reach.
Coastal day trips, Bluewater cruising, entertaining with friends, or enjoying the peacefulness of the open ocean; the Lagoon 46 can do it all.
Replacing the ever-successful Lagoon 450 in 2019, this revolutionary model from CNB Lagoon has taken the cruising catamaran market to new heights. With close to 500 hulls built in the first four years of production, this model is on track to become the most popular cruising catamaran to date. But what makes this model so unique and attractive to those planning a Bluewater adventure? Let’s dive into it.
LAYOUT
Built on the west coast of France in the famous Vendee Region, Lagoon is renowned for maximizing the internal volume on a vessel that sails well in a range of conditions, combined with an ergonomic and well-thought-out layout. The Lagoon 46 is no exception. Internally, this model offers more living space than any other catamaran in its class. The design of the chines in the hull and the gullwing-shaped bridge deck allow for maximum use of space, creating headroom throughout, as well as walk-around berths in all four cabins. Available in a three or four-cabin layout, the 46 can be configured to suit each owner’s preference. The three-cabin layout provides a large owner’s/master cabin to starboard. With a berth aft, there is a lounge with an integrated workstation, a separated private toilet, and a full-beam shower and bathroom forward. The storage is not to be sniffed at, with significant cupboard and drawer space along with hanging room for longer garments. To port, the aft VIP cabin features the same size berth as the master, with a large ensuite. Forward, the guest cabin is spacious, with a semi-walkaround berth and large ensuite, just like the VIP cabin. When optioned as a four-cabin vessel, the two hulls mirror each other with four ensuite heads. This layout would be preferable for those with a larger family or a buyer looking to invest in a charter fleet.
The master cabin utilises the entirety of the starboard hull when the three cabin version is chosen.
The perfect home away from home.
The saloon and cockpit are seamlessly integrated. The large and well-equipped galley sits in a central location to port, perfect for serving into the saloon or cockpit alike. The internal space can seat up to eight people around the saloon table, with storage below all seating. The chart table is positioned at a 45° angle to maximise efficient use of space in the saloon. The cockpit is large, with ample seating to port and along the aft beam. A large Teak table doubles in size, and the addition of two or three directors’ chairs would provide exterior dining for eight, matching the saloon. To starboard, a day bed and outside wet bar with drinks fridge and ice maker make entertaining a simple task.
Throughout the boat, the design is light and airy, with vertical windows protecting from the glare of the sun, while a multitude of forward-facing opening deck hatches provide ample airflow when at anchor. Large hull windows create a seamless connection between the cabins and the ocean view outside.
The flybridge layout was first introduced by Lagoon on the Lagoon 440 in 2004. Since then, this layout has become one of the most popular design features for Lagoon, eclipsing the traditional Sports Top design seen in the majority of the catamaran market. The additional space, seating capacity, visual advantage, and ease of sailing are hard to argue against. Well-protected under the fibreglass hardtop and wrap-around clears, the flybridge makes good use of an area that would be otherwise wasted.
Having sailed thousands of miles on both the Lagoon 450F and the Lagoon 46, in my experience, the flybridge offers a communal, protected, and safe position from which to navigate the vessel. It becomes a focal point for all crew and allows for fully inclusive sailing for the whole family.
The forward cockpit provides seating for six and the best seat in the house when sailing downwind. A large opening forward window allows for easy communication between the forward cockpit and the saloon and is the perfect sundowner servery when the bar is open.
Seamless connection between the saloon and cockpit makes for one large living space.
SAILING AND PERFORMANCE
The rig design and geometry on the Lagoon 46 positions the mast in the centre of the vessel, centralising the weight, which helps to reduce the pitching motion often felt on a catamaran. A self-tacking headsail makes sailing short-handed simple, and a shorter boom with high aspect square top mainsail provides an efficient and modern sail plan that is easier to manage than a traditional sail shape with a longer boom and overlapping jib. The automatic masthead hook system makes raising and lowering the square top mainsail simple with no need to manually attach the headboard to the mast. All lines are routed to the flybridge with the exception of the headsail furling line on the starboard side. A turning block for this is conveniently located so that it can be run to the flybridge winches for controlled easing and hauling as required.
The vessel’s polar diagrams indicate good sailing speeds. On the beam with full main and jib, we see 8.6kts in 16kts of wind and 10.5kts in 20kts of wind. The optional Code 0 or Asymmetric Spinnaker will increase the sailing capabilities of the vessel in a range of conditions and wind angles.
SUSTAINABILITY
Being at the forefront of an industry comes with the responsibility to lead by example. The Lagoon factories are certified with ISO 9001:2015, which sets out the criteria for a quality management system. This ensures a systematic approach to quality management and consistent provision of products that meet customer and regulatory requirements. Additionally, the ISO 14001:2015 certification ensures that Lagoon’s factories meet standards for environmental management, enabling them to identify and control the environmental impact of their activities, products, and services.
FSC (Forestry Stewardship Council) certified wood is used throughout the range for all internal fit-out. This ensures that the wood is sourced in an environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable way. Additionally, internal fabrics are made from recycled materials.
Looking ahead, initial research is underway to examine the incorporation of natural fibres to replace conventional build materials currently being used.
DESIGN
Naval architects VPLP (Van Peteghem & Lauriot-Prévost) are iconic in the yachting industry with some impressive designs to their name. You may recognise names such as Comanche, Maxi Banque Populaire, and BMW Oracle Racing 90 (America's Cup team USA) to name just a few projects that this French design office has been a part of. They bring unparalleled experience to the design of the Lagoon range. The interior design is by the Italian Studio Nauta, and the exterior design is by Patrick le Quément, who has strengthened and harmonised the belief of living a life at sea where comfort and elegance don’t have to be compromised. These three powerhouses in yacht design unite to deliver a refined and elegant vessel that has a proven track record, with 500 hulls sailing the world, as mentioned previously. The 46’s design, while comparable to its larger sisters, is still in a league of its own.
OPTIONS, OPTIONS, OPTIONS
In addition to the two cabin layouts, there are custom options available to build the 46 to each owner’s preference. The standard vessel, plus the ‘Essential equipment package’ delivers a fully functioning base vessel on top of which the following options can be added (to name just a few). The vessel comes standard with twin 45hp Yanmar engines, an upgrade to 57hp is available along with a 3-blade folding propeller option – essential when sailing long distances. Internally, there are two interior wood choices: Sand Oak (darker) and White Oak (lighter), which can be matched with several upholstery choices. The Elegance line package provides an extra sprinkle of luxury for those looking for an upgrade. Appliance-wise, there are additional fridges and freezers, along with a washing machine, dishwasher, and microwave oven available. An 11Kva generator can be paired with a 63000BTU reverse cycle air conditioning system for heating/cooling depending on the climate. The standard AGM service battery bank can be upgraded to a lithium package for those wishing to reduce weight and get more out of their capacity. If you are looking for even more real estate, the optional hydraulic Tenderlift platform doubles up as an extended swim platform or artificial beach.
Electronics-wise, as of 2023, the 46 runs Raymarine electronics throughout. A 16-inch MFD at the helm station can be paired with a 12-inch MFD at the lower chart table. VHF, radar, AIS, and rear cameras can all be configured, as well as Raymarine’s Real Vision sounder. This technology provides high-resolution 3D images of the underwater world, including structure, fish, and bottom contours, all in real time. It’s a worthwhile investment for those venturing into lesser-known waterways.
In the many conversations I have had about this model, clients often ask me where and how the Lagoon 46 is meant to be used. The answer is simple: in whatever way you wish to use it. Whether it’s for European factory direct pickup, Australian local delivery, or as a charter investment, the Lagoon 46 is the ultimate all-rounder. TMG Yachts currently has many clients sailing the world on board this stunning model, with the majority taking delivery directly from the factory in France. Exploring some of the best cruising grounds in the world could not be done on a safer, more comfortable vessel. The Lagoon dealer network provides a global service offering, with over 90 service centres located around the world, making it perfectly suited to remote cruising. With over 6000 Lagoons sailing the world, it is a testament to their quality of build, ease of use and reliability.
Ric and Jenny's Cut & Run (pictured) makes a rendezvous with a friendly Australian owned Lagoon 450S on the island of Malloca, Spain.
Both boats sitting pretty while the crew snorkel and explore the pictuesque island beyond.
Let’s take a look at some of our owners who are currently cruising on their vessel.
Testimonials
Jenny and Ric of Cut & Run, European Pickup, their delivery was delayed approx. 1 year in 2021 due to the global shutdowns. The boat was stored wrapped up for 12 months before they finally made it over to France for handover.
“It’s true…. some days really are diamonds !!! Jenny and I have to thank everyone, during our elongated gestation period, for not only your exceptional support but also your friendship. So, a big thank you to Joe and TMG Yachts for delivering on all their undertakings. We are so happy to be the proud owners of a ‘Cut & Run’ and in our first year we sailed from the factory in France to Montenegro for the winter period. The performance and comfort of the boat was amazing. She is very stable and roomy, and the layout is ideal for both cruising and entertaining. We could not be happier with our purchase, and we can’t wait to return this year to spend the season cruising around the Greek Isles…it’s an amazing vessel that provides so many great memories and we can’t wait for our second season on board in 2023”.
Mike and Linda of Jabulani, European Pickup in Les Sables’ d’Olonne in 2022,
they are about to start their second season in the med, here’s what they had to say.
“You don’t realise how beautiful the Lagoon 46 is until you see it in the flesh. We would highly recommend TMG Yachts as a boat broker for Lagoon, as well as Lagoon, great boat, we’ve loved sailing her.”
Dean Robertson, Arena, Lagoon 46 – Delivery in Australia, Dean and his young family
spent many happy weekends cruising the waters of Moreton Bay, Qld
“So excited to have finally taken delivery of our Lagoon 46 in Manly, Queensland. Rowan McMahon from TMG Yachts took us on a windy delivery trip up from the Gold Coast with lots of smiles onboard. We can’t thank TMG Yachts enough for their support in getting Arena ready for our family sailing adventures.”