Yacht Class n°35 (dec 2023/jan-feb 2024)

Fountaine Pajot

Following the evolution of the catamaran market, the French shipyard Fountaine Pajot continues to expand its range upwards with the launch of the Thíra 80. Design, volumes, layouts, finishes – everything was designed to meet the needs of a demanding clientele.

Written by : Christophe Varène – Photos : DR

The world of catamaran is clearly on the move. Long confined to the charter sector, these sailboats are now attracting more and more buyers with their stability, space and comfort. And for ever bigger units. The French shipyard Fountaine Pajot – one of the world leaders in this sector – is perfectly in tune with this trend. After launching the Alegria 67 a few seasons ago (and then its motorised version with the Power 67), it continues to make its models grow with the Thíra 80, almost 24 m of elegance – yes, it is possible despite this massive size – space, refinement and comfort.

Hats off to the design office Berret-Racoupeau

At first glance, the dimensions of this superyacht are striking, and despite an inevitable high freeboard, the silhouette remains dynamic, thanks in particular to the hogged sheer that refines the two ends and the long horizontal portholes. Even with the flybridge, a key feature for the pleasure of life on board, the superstructures remain “light”. In this respect, the work of Berret-Racoupeau architecture and design studio, which also worked on the Alegria 67, is to be praised. Now let’s get on board. The Thíra 80 takes her name from one of the appellations of the Greek island of Santorini. Boarding is from one of the lateral skirts, which, together with the large platform that can support a tender of around 5 m, form a pleasant bathing beach. And, to make the most of the water activities at anchor, at the top of the stairs and under the bench overlooking this area is placed a jet-ski garage with its launching arch. The cockpit is protected by the flybridge which has small glazed side “wings” covered with semi-transparent solar panels that supply electricity and allow some light below. Other parts of the boat, like the centre of the saloon ceiling, use the same principle. Thanks to all the panels also installed on the hard-top and the flybridge, a large part of the energy needs on board, including the air conditioning, is covered. But let’s head back to the cockpit, where we discovered several areas each with its own characteristics: at the stern, a bench allows one to enjoy water games; on the sides, two small lounges with bulwarks opening onto terraces (with removable posts and lifelines) offer a beautiful sea view; in the center, a large lounge and a table for comfortable dinners for ten or twelve guests contribute to the conviviality on board.

The helm stations forward of the flybridge

Let’s check out this deck before entering the living area… Everything is spacious here and the side decks conceals lockers to store water toys and other items. They lead to the foredeck which takes up the entire space between the hulls and all the way to the forepeaks, all elegantly clad in teak. Sofas, sun beds, mini-bar and even jacuzzi: nothing is missing to make this place an essential part of life on board. Only the two hydraulic furled stays reminded us that we were on a sailboat. The sailing character of the Thíra 80 can only be appreciated on the flybridge. Under a hardtop that can be accessed to reach the boom, this terrace with its breathtaking sea view is divided into two spaces. The aft section is devoted to social life with sofas, table and kitchenette, while the front one houses all the navigation equipment. There are two steering positions on either side of the mast, located just in front of the flybridge. The navigation consoles are well-equipped and the skipper can manoeuvre from the starboard one, which is equipped with the engine controls. Three massive electric winches are located at the foot of the mast and allow the mainsail to be hoisted and the fore sails to be adjusted. Sockets are available for all ends. The whole thing is ergonomic and marine.

Dominant clarity in the main deck

Let’s head back down to explore the salon, accessible via large glass windows and on the same level as the cockpit. There is an immediate impression of clarity, while the dark wood floors, the furniture and the central part of the ceiling give an impression of warmth and cosiness. On this Thíra 80, the galley has been placed on the port hull, freeing up space in the saloon. To the right of a central island, there is a lounge area with two XXL sofas and a coffee table, while to the left, a small service area (work surface, sink and fridge) adjoins a small intimate lounge. Forward, near the watertight door leading to the exterior deck saloon, is located a chart table, with engine controls and a view of almost 360°. Let’s continue with the hulls. On the port side, two companionways divide the space: the aft one leads to the galley and crew quarters with a captain’s cabin and a twin (another can be fitted in the forepeak), while the forward one gives access to two double guest cabins, each with its en suite bathroom. On starboard, the same layout can be found in the front part (two guest cabins), but the entire aft accommodates the owner’s suite: king size bed with a sea view, a large bathroom, a sofa, a desk, a dressing room and a separate toilet. The designers of this luxury catamaran envisioned several configurations, including a large forward master area and an aft VIP. In the same way, a six-cabin, six-bathroom layout is also available for charter-oriented vessels. The Fountaine Pajot Thíra 80 is another milestone in the development of a yard that is well equipped to meet the high standards of the superyacht industry. Likewise, the Thíra is also available in three diesel versions: 2 x 175 hp, 2 x 270 hp and 2 x 300 hp. When there is no wind, you must be able to rely on the engines.