LEOPARD 43 PC A Power Cat full of energy

Here at the magazine, we’ve said that multihulls probably represent the future of motor-boating, and though this statement is bold, it really does appear to be coming true. Slowly, however, almost imperceptibly, the expectations of motor-boaters are changing and a new, more environmentally aware clientele are looking at bigger boats. With a reasonable length and genuine sea-keeping qualities, the Leopard 43 PC is at a point where it can benefit from the direction the market is taking. We were able to try one out on a nice trip in the Mediterranean.

A carefully designed hull

The two versions (L40 sailboat and Power Cat 43PC) are variations of the same plan and Alex Simonis’ idea is to maintain the same philosophy for the 48’/51’ project which is the culmination of several years’ design of power catamarans. The underwater hulls of the Power 43 are totally different than those of its closest sailing cousin: the turn of the bilge has been significantly lessened, to reduce wake and give better passage through the water, and the forefoot of the bow submerged to smooth the lines to the maximum. The keels have been done away with, replaced by small skegs which allow the boat to be beached and stored on the hard, well-balanced while protecting the prop shafts and propellers. The bows are very fine-entry, the ski-shape forward and the nacelle are high for the size of boat. The deep U-sections of the forward half of the hulls, which generate a very deadening hull form to counteract pitching, contribute to a well-balanced trim, and increase the boats capabilities going through a choppy sea. The aft third is hollowed out in the form of a tunnel to allow space for the propeller and improve the angle of the propshaft, at 8°. A deep plan...