Fountaine Pajot’s new cat features more open living, easier handling, and longer autonomy at anchor.
Fountaine Pajot knows a thing or two about the mid-40-foot sweet spot for cruising multihulls, and with the launch of the new Tanna 47 cat, they’ve dialed in their eight-model lineup, which has massive appeal to both private owners and charterers. I stepped aboard in Annapolis for a test sail and thorough walkthrough.
The new model is based on (and shares the same hull design with) its predecessor, the Saona 47. That said, the Tanna isn’t just a tweak or refresh. It benefits from smart changes including a completely new deck and bimini design. It also has an expanded solar array, a generous flybridge that’s 40% larger, a redesigned salon/galley with increased storage, a helm station with better ergonomics and access for line handling, longer genoa tracks, a standard Lewmar traveler, and a nav station that moved next to the interior entrance for faster access. The opening between the salon and cockpit is also 20% larger for better air circulation and traffic flow, and the flybridge is now over 75 square feet with seating for 10. It’s very much a new boat.
The Tanna 47 is sold with three option packages (the Grande Large, Oceanic, and Comfort) and two layouts. The Maestro offers an owners’ suite that’s so expansive it may elicit a “whoa,” plus two additional staterooms. The Quintet makes room for five cabins and five heads.
The Tanna 47 gives a nod to better living at anchor. Up to 1,700 watts of soft solar panels may be added to keep up with most power demands, and if you must run air conditioning, there’s an 11.5 kW Northern Lights generator.
Testing on the flat waters of the Chesapeake in 10-14 knots true, we sailed 6.7 knots at 60 degrees apparent wind angle (AWA). That increased to 7.5 knots on a beam reach, and we still held onto 6.2 knots when we cracked off to 120 degrees AWA. We measured speed over ground because the effect of current varied by direction sailed and was tricky to track. Visibility forward and along the starboard hull is good, but you have to duck under the bimini to see the port transom.
We had the advantage of upgraded Volvo Penta 75-hp diesels with folding props and motored at an efficient 8.3 knots at 2,400 rpm (max: 9.1 knots at 2,900 rpm). Close-quarters handling takes a bit of getting used to. First, with hydraulic steering, there’s less feedback and you can’t lock the wheel on centerline when maneuvering with engines only. Second, the rudders are forward of the props, which changes the flow of water and therefore response time as well as the pivot point. An afternoon of practice will help.
The Tanna 47 builds on the basics of its predecessor and will be at home with the same demographic. The new model offers more open living, easier handling, and longer autonomy at anchor. Best of all, you can try one for a week in charter before purchasing, which is the best test sail ever.
LOA: 45’ 8”
Beam: 25’ 4”
Draft: 3’ 11”
Displ.: 29,400 lbs.
Sail Area: 1,388 sq. ft.
Water: 192 gal.
Fuel: 248 gal.
Power: 2/50-hp or 2/60-hp Volvo Penta