Nautitech 40 Open Catamaran

Published: 05 Jun 2025
Author: Michael Hodges
The Nautitech 40 Open, a 39.4-foot catamaran that’s as much a lifestyle statement as it is a vessel, crafted for the modern sea lover. Built in Rochefort, France, by Nautitech Catamarans—now under the savvy umbrella of Capital Management Partners alongside Bavaria—this multihull marvel is a blend of Franco-German engineering and eco-conscious swagger.
Nautitech 40 Open Catamaran
© Michael Hodges
Nautitech 40 Catamaran

Using VacuTec vacuum infusion, its resin-infused, foam-core hull cuts weight by 20% and slashes emissions by 80%, all while isophthalic acid resin wards off osmosis like a charm. At 11.98 meters long with a 6.91-meter beam, it’s a sleek, light contender at 8,500 kg, ready to glide through the waters of the Ionian, Amalfi Coast or the British Virgin Islands with effortless style. Marc Lombard, the design maestro behind this cat, pioneered the “Open” concept, and it’s a game-changer. The cockpit and saloon merge into one sprawling, indoor-outdoor living space, a tarpaulin system flexing to your mood—open for sun-soaked days, enclosed for stormy nights. It’s the ultimate setup for sipping rosé at anchor, whether you’re off Santorini or in the Whitsundays. The Mark 2 saloon’s aft-facing galley, decked with a double-drawer fridge, cockpit cooler, and freezer, ensures you’re stocked for the long haul, while the cockpit table seats eight with ease. Add coach roof loungers for sunset views, and you’ve got a floating penthouse vibe, amplified by hull windows and hatches that flood the space with light and sea breezes.

Performance? This cat’s got moves. A full batten mainsail, self-tacking jib, and roller furling make it a dream for short-handed sailing, with twin aft helms offering panoramic views of the sails and horizon. Lines lead to electric winches, and the high aspect sail plan lets you point 55 to 60 degrees upwind, especially with a Code 0 in lighter winds. Narrow, hydrodynamic hulls keep drag low, while hard-chined steps maximise cabin space without killing speed. Standard 30hp engines (50hp if you’re feeling extra) hit 7 knots at 2,000rpm, with zero slamming thanks to solid bridged deck clearance. Owners report 8–10 knots in moderate breezes, pushing 15 knots when the wind kicks up—a lively ride for its size.

Below deck, the Nautitech 40 Open caters to your crew’s vibe. Opt for the 4-cabin layout—four doubles, two heads with showers, plus a cockpit rinse—or the 3-cabin owner’s version with a sprawling master suite. Air conditioning, a B&G nav station with Triton displays, and a Zeus 9” chartplotter keep things luxe, whether you’re chartering in the Caribbean or cruising the Solent during Cowes Week (August 2–8, 2025 https://oldseadogs.com/boat-shows/the-199th-cowes-week-2025/ ). Light oak or walnut finishes add a modern edge, though some owners on the Nautitech Owners Facebook Group suggest more galley storage for extended trips.

Pricing starts at €515,000, but load it up with a water maker, heating, and AIS, and you’re looking at €650,000–€665,000. Used models on YachtWorld span £183,173 for a 2014 to £563,944 for a 2025, or charter one for $5,000–$8,000 a week in the BVI or the Ionian. Early builds had hiccups—battery failures within 18 months and sun-damaged grey roofs (now white)—but the Generation 3 updates refine the helm and layout, keeping it fresh.

This catamaran isn’t just a boat; it’s a lifestyle. Stable, spacious, and built for the social sailor, the Nautitech 40 Open delivers the kind of effortless elegance that makes every voyage Instagram-worthy. Whether you’re chasing trade winds or hosting a floating dinner party, it’s your ticket to coastal chic. I have hired one of these 3 times and sailed around the Ionian / the greek islands. Its Ideal for family and friends. Plenty of space for them all to relax and sunbathe while I guide us to another island for dinner.