Leopard 50 Review: Innovative, Versatile, Practical

The Leopard 50 certainly has big boots to fill. When Leopard Catamarans retired the award-winning Leopard 48—their best-selling model of all time—only something truly impressive was going to be able to fill the gap. And the 50, with innovative use of space, and yet more versatility, has unequivocally done that.

This is the new generation of Leopard Catamarans, built off the success of its slightly smaller sister. It has taken the entire indoor and outdoor living space to new levels. The flybridge for example has more headroom and includes a lounge area, table, sunbed, and shade awning (not to mention extras such as speakers for balmy afternoons of relaxing or entertaining). Yet it retains the characteristic feature of all Leopard cats in that the flybridge is positioned to maintain contact with the helm.

While the Leopard 50 is certainly spacious and well-designed for long-term cruising, Leopard have been careful not to forfeit sailability and handling for home comforts. Engineering innovations in the form of carbon-infused ring frames—such as those used in racing cats—has allowed the 50 to be lighter than it would otherwise appear. With this light weight comes strength and stiffness, too, making it a strong bluewater cruiser that’s a pleasure to sail. Ultimately the folks at Leopard have created an excellent blend of comfort, space, and performance.

Leopard 50

The Leopard 50 has stepped into the shoes of the hugely popular Leopard 48. Leopard Catamarans photo.

Leopard 50 Key Features

While mention has been made of the flybridge, which is one of the most appealing features of this model, the interior of the Leopard 50 is certainly no disappointment. Created by naval architects Simonis & Voogd Yacht Design, the interior is light, contemporary, and fresh, giving even more sense of space as well as an easy-clean finish. There are several cabin configurations, including a four-cabin, five-cabin, or even three-cabin set-up with additional utility area. The living space is vast, with wrap-around sea views from the saloon, a full galley, and lounging and dining spaces.

There are two cockpits on the Leopard 50, a compact and cozy forward cockpit, as well as the enormous aft cockpit complete with large dining table and comfortable benches that can accommodate 12 people easily.

The cabins are spacious and light-filled thanks to the slightly wider beam in the Leopard 50, and there can be between 4 and 6 heads depending on the layout chosen.

Leopard 50 cockpit

There is an expansive aft cockpit on the Leopard 50, as well as a smaller forward cockpit. Leopard Catamarans photo.

Leopard 50 Performance

Power-wise the Leopard 50 has as standard a pair of Yanmar 57hp diesel saildrives, although there is the option of twin 80hp Yanmars, the latter which can generate top speeds of around 9 knots at 2,500 rpm. Under sail the Leopard 50 is made simple by having all lines lead to a trio of electric winches near the helm. A conventional mainsail or optional square-top main configuration offer respectable cruising speeds reported at around 9 knots in choppy seas and 15 knots of wind.

Leopard 50 Interior

A blended indoor/outdoor living area increases the huge sense of space on the Leopard 50. Leopard Catamarans photo.

Leopard 50 Why Buy It

Option of four- or five-cabin layout (as well a three-cabin with utility)
Expansive flybridge with extended headroom
Almost 360-degree sea views from the saloon
Two cockpits, one forward and a large one aft
Easy handling for a very small crew
Buying Used? Many of these boats are made for the charter market and receive heavy usage. When buying used, be sure to check engine hours. For other tips when buying used, read our Boat Inspection Checklist

Leopard 50 Cabin