Leopard’s latest model has been developed on a familiar platform: the Leopard 53 PC retains its excellent hull… and that is about all! More than a restyling, this is an entirely new boat, which we had the opportunity to test in the south of France.
By Jean-Christophe Guillaumin – Photos: Leopard Catamarans and the author
Flagship and bestseller
Robertson & Caine has been building all Leopard models, both sailing and power, for more than thirty years and was one of the pioneers of power catamarans as early as the 1990s. Since then, successive generations of Leopard powercats have become genuine bestsellers. The 53 PC is no exception, with 142 units delivered since 2020. As the flagship of the fleet, this model needed to evolve to remain competitive in an increasingly crowded market. The shipyard chose not to settle for a simple update, instead opting to redesign the boat from the ground up.
A reimagined interior
Stepping aboard the Leopard 53 PC, the first impression is one of generous space. From the stern, the view forward makes the boat feel considerably larger than the 16.19 metres stated in the technical specifications, including the aft platform. The aft cockpit has been completely redesigned around two different concepts. In the “Alfresco” version, the modular layout allows the seats and tables to be rearranged in seconds and with minimal effort. The furniture remains particularly stable, even in rough seas, and can be secured when necessary using an ingenious fastening system. The classic version, meanwhile, features a fixed layout that prioritises robustness and simplicity.
Access to the electrically operated swim platform has also been redesigned to make movement easier, whether launching the tender or enjoying the anchorage and the additional bathing area. Developed by the shipyard, the platform can accommodate a 3.80-metre tender weighing up to 350 kg. A clever solution!
The saloon and galley areas have also received considerable attention from the designers. Leopard has reworked the connection between the galley and the saloon to create visual and functional continuity. The finish is clearly a step upmarket: new fabrics, carefully detailed stitching, contemporary woodwork and ambient LED lighting give the interior an atmosphere approaching that of high-end yachts. The glass windows, separated by aluminium mullions, provide exceptional views. Leopard traditionally offers two layouts: a four-cabin version with four bathrooms, and a three-cabin version in which the entire starboard hull is dedicated to the owner.
… and silence as an added bonus
Owners all agree: engines inevitably transmit vibrations and unwanted noise into the hulls, cabins and even the saloon. Leopard has paid particular attention to improving life on board by bringing all the main systems — engines, generator and hydraulic systems — together in a fully sealed, acoustically insulated engine room. The result is impressive: even with both engines running at full throttle, you can hold a conversation inside without raising your voice or being bothered by unpleasant vibrations. A real advantage on long passages.
Under way: comfort and range
The Leopard 53 PC retains the hull that made it successful, designed by naval architecture firm Simonis Voogd. It gives the boat a reassuring trim and excellent course-keeping, even in rough seas. At a cruising speed of 17 knots, the catamaran’s lateral stability provides a level of comfort that few monohulls of this length can match.
Fuel consumption also remains reasonable when travelling at comfortable speeds. At 7 knots (1,300 rpm), the two engines consume 10 litres per hour. With 2,130 litres of fuel on board, the range is sufficient to consider a transatlantic crossing. At a cruising speed of 17 knots, consumption rises to 75 litres per hour. At top speed, we exceeded 22 knots — although the hull of our test boat was not in pristine condition, as it had been in the water for more than six months. Consumption reached 145 litres per hour, while comfort and quietness remained remarkable.
The Leopard 53 PC has two helm stations: one inside and one on the flybridge, which has also undergone a thorough redesign. The helm station has notably improved ergonomics and visibility. The bar and outdoor galley module, complete with sink, grill and integrated refrigeration, turns the flybridge into a panoramic dining area that can comfortably accommodate twelve people, with an unbeatable view of the anchorage — or while cruising at more than 20 knots!
The magic of power catamarans!
Technical specifications
Builder: Robertson & Caine
Naval architects: Simonis Voogd Design
Overall length: 15.40 m
Waterline length: 15.24 m
Beam: 7.67 m
Draft: 1.00 m
Engines: 2 × Yanmar, 370 hp each
Maximum speed: 24 knots
Cruising speed: 17 knots
Fuel capacity: 2,130 litres
Freshwater capacity: 700 litres
Blackwater capacity: 160 litres
Displacement: 21,411 kg
Payload capacity: 6,119 kg
Layout: Three or four cabins, each with its own bathroom
