THE CAT – 52ft ULDB: A High-Performance Offshore Sailing Yacht by Jacques Fauroux

A Build Conceived for Offshore Sailing

THE CAT is the result of a remarkable collaboration between the talent of naval architect Jacques Fauroux and the exceptional craftsmanship of her owner-builder. The hull, deck and superstructure are entirely constructed in Airex foam/Epoxy/Glass sandwich, a composite technique that delivers an outstanding stiffness-to-weight ratio for an offshore sailing yacht. This construction choice translates directly on the water: at only 9 tonnes light ship and 10.20 tonnes fully loaded, THE CAT is remarkably light for a 15.95m yacht. The 20.50m carbon mast weighing just 180 kg, and the 7m carbon Park Avenue boom — both designed by Fauroux and owner-built — reflect a constant drive for performance. The twin carbon rudders and the 2.60t lead bulb keel on a fine carbon Naka profile, electrically operated via ropes and blocks, complete a coherent and ambitious naval architecture. CE certified by the ICMM bureau, THE CAT meets all European regulatory requirements for offshore navigation.

Navigation and Electronics: Everything for Safe Passage-Making

THE CAT is fitted with a comprehensive electronics suite focused on safety and performance. Navigation instruments and sounder are GARMIN, widely recognised for their reliability at sea. The autopilot system combines a GARMIN unit with a LECOMBLE & SCHMIDT hydraulic ram, delivering accurate and fatigue-free course-keeping on long offshore passages. Navigation is further supported by a NAVMAN GPS and chart plotter, along with a FURUNO 24-nautical-mile radar for reliable detection of obstacles and maritime traffic, day or night and in poor visibility. A NAVMAN VHF radio completes the communication package. Below, the chart table is positioned on the port side at the foot of the companionway, and a tablet serves as an onboard computer. A hi-fi system and PHILIPPS television are also aboard for relaxing moments at anchor.

A Generous and Comfortable Interior for Six

The interior of THE CAT is surprising in both volume and finish quality. For a performance ULDB, onboard comfort is remarkable: floors, worktops and tables are all in Corian, a premium material that is easy to maintain and resistant to the marine environment. The central saloon features a large U-shaped sofa upholstered in Alcantara around a generous dining table, perfect for meals at sea or at anchor. Three separate cabins accommodate up to 6 guests in excellent conditions: a forward double cabin, an aft double cabin, and a cabin with bunk berths. Three shower rooms and heads ensure individual comfort for everyone aboard. Ventilation is provided by 22 hatches distributed throughout the yacht, including 4 in the topsides, ensuring effective natural airflow even in tropical climates. The spacious, well-protected cockpit features a dining table and two berths for outdoor living, with solar panels mounted on the aft davits overhead.

An Exceptional Galley: A True Asset for Life Aboard

Rarely will you find a yacht galley as well conceived as the one aboard THE CAT. Particularly long and spacious, it offers a double sink, abundant storage, and all the culinary equipment needed to cook comfortably even in a seaway. The 150-litre refrigerator and 70-litre deep freezer allow provisions for several weeks of autonomous cruising. The EQUATOR 3-burner gas stove with oven guarantees proper cooking at any hour. The built-in DAEWOO Mini washing machine is a rare and highly valued convenience on long voyages, eliminating the laundry burden on arrival in port. Together, these domestic amenities make THE CAT as pleasant to live aboard as she is exciting to sail.

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