Lagoon 46 Review, Spacious Bluewater Catamaran

Lagoon quite modestly describes the 46 as a “generous catamaran,” but that’s a complete understatement when you look at the expansive interior and deck space to be found on this 46-footer. Launched in 2019 and still in production in 2024, the 46 replaced the Lagoon 450, one of the brand’s best-selling models for almost a decade, with almost 800 built. And the 46 has stepped confidently into its sister’s shoes, both in the private and charter market.

The Lagoon 46 was designed by Van Peteghem/Lauriot-Prevost with the exterior by Patrick le Quément and interior by Nauta Design, and the result is an impressive balance of bluewater cruising comfort and long-term livability. With three, four or even six cabins, an improved galley design, expansive flybridge, and yes “generous” living space, the 46 promises all the room and storage you could need for up to 12 people on board, as well as single-handed sailing capabilities.

Crossing oceans and making other significant bluewater voyages or enjoying vacations with friends and family are the main reasons people sail the Lagoon 46. While it can cruise at respectable speeds under sail, its weight means it won’t be winning too many races, and in very light winds it needs to be motored. But it’s a worthy trade off for the luxurious and “generous” space, furnishings, and appliances it offers.

Lagoon 46

The Lagoon 46 is a spacious, comfortable, and reliable bluewater cruiser. Lagoon Catamarans photo.

Lagoon 46 Key Features

One of the stand-out features of the 48 is the cockpit, which offers panoramic views of the horizon, a wet bar, and comfortable dining and living space for 12 people. The flybridge, too, is a key selling point, with the helm station and transformable sundecks creating both a functional and relaxing space.

Head inside and the Lagoon 46 outdoes itself on clever use of space. The saloon, galley, and chart table have wraparound sea views and a fresh décor to maximize light. Down below the guest cabins are light and airy, certainly spacious (all queen-sized beds), yet also functional and practical. The owner’s cabin is positively palatial for a boat of this size.

Lagoon 46 deck space

Clever use of deck space has provided practical and relaxing zones. Lagoon Catamarans photo.

Lagoon 46 Performance

Lagoon’s focus is on reliability, safety, comfort, and luxury rather than all-out speed, but that doesn’t mean it can’t get a move on. There is a 1,300 square foot sail plan—with a smaller mainsail and larger jib—combined with the mast which has been stepped aft to allow this boat to be sailed confidently single-handedly. Electric winches to port and starboard make it easier to trim the headsails. Reviewers report with a moderate breeze, the 46 can hit 9-10 knots on a reach and a knot or two faster as the wind increases and you set a Code 0 headsail.

Upwind in a good breeze, this model will still move along well, but it won’t sail as close to the wind as catamarans with daggerboards and you may find yourself using its twin Yanmar diesel engines (45 or 57hp) to motorsail at a closer wind angle. Alone, the engines offer up to 9 knots at full throttle, with a cruising speed around 7 knots.

Lagoon 46 Flybridge

The flybridge offers transformable sundecks as well as the helm. Lagoon Catamarans photo.

Lagoon 46 Why Buy It

Impressive use of space, both on deck and down below
It can comfortably accommodate 6 to 12 guests in up to 4 cabins
Enormous owner’s cabin with spacious en-suite head
Can be sailed single- or short-handedly
Panoramic sea views from the airy saloon and galley
It’s a comfortable, safe, reliable, and luxurious bluewater cruiser
Buying Used? The Lagoon 46 has two different cabin layout options, aimed either at the owner or charter market, so be sure to search around for the right set-up for you. For other tips when buying used, read our Boat Inspection Checklist.

Lagoon 46 saloon, galley and nav station