- In the first part This article focuses on the construction, design and sailing experience of the Leopard 52.
New and very interesting layout options are available for the Leopard 52, designed to meet the requirements of both private owners and charter operators. A wide range of layout options is available, with three to six double cabins, each with its own en-suite bathroom, which is particularly important for charter use. On the previous model, the layout options were limited to five cabins.
Other passenger catamarans in this size category:
Another new feature concerns access to the aft cabin on the port side: it can now also be accessed directly from the cockpit via a separate companionway. In doing so, Leopard is following a general trend in cruising catamarans: the living areas on board are being separated more clearly from one another and, where the layout allows, are being given their own access points. For owners, this means greater privacy; for charter guests, it allows for better use by couples or families.
High-quality workmanship
As well as offering a wide range of interior layout options, the Leopard 52 impresses above all with the quality of its finish below deck. In this respect, Robertson and Caine set a new, very high standard compared with their direct competitors. Given that the boats are used equally for private ownership and charter operations, the robust, functional interior fit-out with high-quality fittings and components is entirely appropriate. The furniture components and floors are made of plywood and finished with highly durable laminates. Compared with traditional real wood veneers, laminate offers many practical advantages: it is more resistant to moisture, scratches and signs of wear, easier to clean and, in the event of damage, can be replaced without any problems.
Good ventilation, clean design, weaknesses in grip
When it comes to ventilation, the Leopard 52 sets a fine example. Thanks to the numerous windows and hatches, good cross-ventilation is possible in all cabins, the wet rooms and the saloon. The South African-built vessel also has a number of technical strengths to its name. The various systems for the water circuits, as well as for the electrical and electronic systems, are neatly installed, clearly labelled and easily accessible. However, there is a lack of handholds in the form of handrails, recessed handles or edge strips, particularly in the open, spacious saloon. Anyone sailing the boat in rough conditions will search in vain for something to hold on to here.
Attractively priced, but not without some additional costs
With a base price of just under 1.07 million euros gross, the Leopard 52 has nothing to fear from the competition in its class. What’s more, the high-quality standard fit-out, robust construction and comprehensive technology make it an attractive proposition. However, buyers in Europe should be aware that this price is ex-shipyard in South Africa. Transport by cargo ship or under its own power to Central Europe costs at least a further 70,000 euros.
- Base price ex-shipyard: €1,069,810
- Standard equipment includes: Sails (mainsail and genoa), engine, sheets, railings, navigation lights, battery, compass, sails, upholstery, galley/cooker, bilge pump, toilet, fire extinguisher, electric cool box, waste water tank with suction system.
- Subject to an additional charge: Sailing yacht €2,840, anchor and chain €2,185, fenders and mooring lines €1,150, handover ready to sail included, antifouling €28,045
- Price, ready to sail: €1,104,030
- Warranty/against osmosis: 2–6 years
- Surcharge for comfort features: Adjustable cleats included; traveller not available; electric windlass included; tube kicker not available; backstay tensioner not available; cleats included; sprayhood not available; teak in cockpit €25,725; VHF radio E-package; Log and depth sounder (E-package); Wind gauge (E-package); Autopilot (E-package); Electrical package (Raymarine) €20,340; Charger package (SP); Shore power connection with RCD; package (SP); 230-volt socket package (SP); shore power package (SP) €20,890; 12-volt socket in the navigation console included; Heating (AC system) €54,840; pressurised water system included; hot water boiler included; shower and toilet compartment included; cockpit shower included.
- Special offer price: €1,225,825
- Included in the price: Storage space for life raft, hardtop bimini over the helm, cockpit table, furling system for the headsail
For information on how the prices shown are defined as at 2026, please see here!
With the Leopard 52, Robertson and Caine have built a robust, well-finished and technically very well-organised yacht. Its strength lies in the overall package: plenty of space, high build quality, minimal variation in the interior fit-out, and an attractive price.
YACHT review of the Leopard 52
A robust, well-built cruising yacht from South Africa with plenty of space below deck to accommodate a wide range of potential interior layouts. The Leopard 52 demonstrated impressive performance potential in testing. Attractively priced despite its high-end specifications.
Design and Concept
Balanced alignment
Robust construction
Reasonable price
Flexible expansion concept
Sailing performance and trim
Good potential for performance
Manoeuvrability
Easy to use
No sense of steering
Housing and build quality
High standard of finish
Exemplary ventilation
Laminate instead of real wood veneers
Few places to hold on to
Equipment and Technology
High-spec standard equipment
Variation in engine types
Traveller not available
Stiff steering
The Leopard 52 in detail
Hull and deck construction
GRP sandwich with a foam core and vinyl ester resin. Manufactured using the vacuum infusion process.
Motorisation
Two Yanmar inboard diesel engines with Saildrive, each delivering 57 PS (80 PS optional), are fitted as standard. The alternative is the electric hybrid propulsion system from manufacturer Joool. The comprehensive turnkey system costs an additional gross amount of around 200,000 euros.
Shipyard
Robertson and Caine, Cape Town (South Africa), www.robertsonandcaine.com
Sales
Leopard Catamarans, Saint-Raphaël (France), www.leopardcatamarans.com
Plenty of space, lots of layouts, sturdy materials: is that half the battle when it comes to cruising catamarans, or how important is the sailing experience in the end? Join the discussion in the comments.
Michael Good
Editor Test & Technology