Why the Lagoon 38 Is the Best Catamaran Under 40 Feet
Lagoon 38 Wins Multihull Of The Year Award 2026
Announced at the Multihull of the Year Awards, the 2026 results confirmed what many owners and industry experts are already recognising, the Lagoon 38 is redefining what a compact cruising catamaran can be.
As Gwen Doning explained:
“Every year, these awards recognise the very best multihulls on the market, celebrating innovation, performance, comfort, and design across the industry.”
This year’s result carried even more weight, with a record-breaking number of votes cast by the global boating community.
Designed for Modern Cruising
The Sailing Catamaran Under 45ft category focuses on the fastest-growing segment of the market, boats that are easier to own, easier to sail, and best suited to real-world cruising.
“This category highlights compact sailing multihulls, accessible, innovative, and full of smart design solutions.”
This is exactly where the Lagoon 38 excels.
Positioned as the next-generation 38 foot catamaran, it brings together the features buyers are actively searching for when looking for the best catamaran under 40 feet or even the best catamaran under 45 feet.
- Seamless indoor-outdoor living between cockpit and saloon
- Expansive volume that feels well beyond its size
- Simple, centralised sail handling for ease of use
- Smart layouts designed for couples, families, and first-time owners
A New Benchmark for Small Catamarans
What ultimately set the Lagoon 38 apart was its ability to deliver genuine cruising comfort without increasing size or complexity.
“A model under 40ft, finally, that still offers great comfort and smart onboard features.”
This is a key shift in the market. Where smaller catamarans were once seen as a compromise, the Lagoon 38 proves they can now represent the benchmark for the best sailing catamaran under 40 feet.
Built through an unprecedented co-creation process with Lagoon owners, every detail has been shaped around how people actually use their boats today, whether that’s entertaining at anchor, coastal cruising, or extended time onboard.
Why It Matters
For buyers searching for the best catamaran under 40 feet, the best sailing catamaran under 40 feet, or even the best catamaran under 45 feet, the Lagoon 38 delivers something unique:
It doesn’t try to be bigger, it simply uses its space better.
The result is a catamaran that feels more liveable, more intuitive, and more aligned with modern boating than anything else in its class.
LATEST LAGOON CATAMARAN REVIEWS
Why The Lagoon 43 is the Best Catamaran for Liveaboard Cruising – Long
Long, a first-time catamaran owner, spent years researching before choosing the Lagoon 43 for his global sailing adventure starting in France.
“It has fully met my expectations. The size is just right for me, spacious but manageable, and very livable. After two months and over 2,000 nautical miles of sailing, I’ve been very happy with its performance. The interior layout, saloon design, semi flybridge, and included configurations perfectly suit my family’s lifestyle and the way we entertain friends on board.
If what you really want is a valuable, challenging, and rewarding life experience, then absolutely go for it. This kind of journey is absolutely worth it.”
Lagoon Catamaran Charter Boat Investment Journey – Mike
Six years after purchasing a Lagoon 40 for charter in the Whitsundays, Mike reflects on the decision that exceeded expectations.
“We approached the charter boat investment with a business mindset. We modelled everything conservatively, and honestly, it’s performed better than expected. Even through COVID, we averaged around 165 charter nights a year, and the boat held its value far better than we’d anticipated.
The Lagoon 40 hit the sweet spot, it’s the perfect size for the Whitsundays market. Less intimidating for first-timers, and a strong performer in bookings.
The boat was delivered basically ready to charter.
After six years, I’d absolutely do it all again. It’s been a positive experience from start to finish, and if we go again I’d be looking at the Lagoon 43.”
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Lagoon 46 Favourite Features Real Owner Testimonial – Mike and Linda
After 2 seasons of sailing the Med on their Lagoon 46 Mike and Linda shared what they love most, “The Lagoon 46 has given us a whole new level of freedom and comfort. I love the Code Zero sail for light wind performance, and Linda’s favourite spot is the flybridge, it’s where everyone gathers when we’re sailing. With a watermaker and generator on board, we’ve been able to explore more remote places and stay cool during the heatwaves in Greece. It’s made the whole experience effortless and enjoyable.”
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