Yacht Class n°43 (Jan-Fev-Mars 2026)

Lagoon – Groupe Beneteau

Continuing to expand its range towards larger models, Lagoon has reached a new milestone with the Eighty 2 that, in addition to her harmonious lines, offers extensive customisation options and an ever-higher level of finish, while providing a smooth and appealing ride at sea.

Written by : Christophe Varène – Photos : DR

Once the frenzy of the Cannes Yachting Festival is over, it is time for moments suspended in time: sea trials. And when it comes to discovering one of the stars of the show, the Lagoon Eighty 2, in action, the moment takes on an extra dimension. This model continues the French manufacturer’s development in the world of large yachts, a process already initiated with the launches of the Sixty 5 and Seventy 7, with a clear desire to offer a significant improvement in quality. However, it should be noted that Lagoon, the world leader in catamarans, does not see its future solely in large sizes. At the same time, it is launching the new Lagoon 38, which serves as an entry point into the family. The Lagoon Eighty 2 can be discovered at sea, as she is anchored in the bay of Cannes. A short trip on the tender allows you to appreciate the lines created by VPLP Design for the architecture and Patrick Le Quément for the exterior design, two of the brand’s regular collaborators. A subtle contrast between the turquoise hulls and white superstructures creates an effect of lightness. The silhouette also benefits from straight bows, a fairly high bilge and elongated portholes to remain as streamlined as possible.

A 22 m² rear platform

This approach also provides an opportunity to admire the open terrace in the hull at the owner’s cabin level: a real bonus for moments of intimacy and romance. When climbing aboard, you will appreciate the design of the hydraulic platform, which folds into several sections: its side flaps unfold in front of the skirts and, in total, it covers 22 m². In the raised position, it adds to the cockpit area for an incredible view over the sea. When folded, it can support a large tender and a weight of 1.3 tonnes. The feeling of space lives up to expectations when you discover the exterior surfaces, or rather the surface of the main deck, which is on one level, except for the two steps leading to the gangways, from the stern to the forward saloon. The latter has everything it takes to attract passengers, perhaps when sailing downwind and even more so when at anchor: slightly enclosed for better protection from the wind, it is generously furnished with benches and cushions around a coffee table.

All manoeuvres grouped together on the flybridge

Let’s now take a look at the flybridge, which is accessed via a staircase without risers, for greater discretion and less obstruction to the view from the cockpit. Positioned high above the waterline, it combines two distinct areas: relaxation at the rear and manoeuvring at the front. The former is lavishly appointed, occupying three-quarters of the 50 m² surface area, with a large L-shaped saloon, a table for al fresco dining for eight guests and a bar with a plancha grill. Two helm stations occupy the forward section, with a set of five electric winches between them. From here, the helmsman can manage almost all operations, starting, in this case, with raising the anchor. The consoles, each with engine controls, are well equipped with control buttons. Once freed, the Lagoon Eighty 2 heads out to sea and the sails are set: mainsail on a furling boom and Code 0 on a furling system. Conditions are very pleasant with 10 to 15 knots of wind and calm seas after the turbulence observed during trials at the boat show.

Smooth sailing

Of course, one has to take into account the weight and level of equipment on this large catamaran (approximately 70 tonnes displacement) and not expect lightning-fast acceleration, but gradually the speed increases and sailing is between 6.5 and 8 knots around 90 degrees apparent wind. When the genoa replaces the Code 0, the tacking becomes closer to the wind and the speed can then exceed 10 knots. Tacks, by rolling the headsail, are carried out with complete peace of mind and without requiring a large crew. The return to the anchorage is made under engine power at a cruising speed of 8.8 knots (at 1,800 rpm) with a fuel consumption of 20 l/h. Back at our starting point, it is time to take a look at the interior fittings, starting with the saloon. To say that light and space are generously provided here would be an understatement: on all sides, the bay windows blur the boundary between the interior and the outside environment. A large lounge and table connect to the outside, while towards the bow, a modest but functional chart table and kitchenette complete the layout. The layout of the test boat is characterised by the installation of the galley in the port hull, next to the crew quarters (for four to five crew members). This hull also houses a double cabin for passengers and a twin cabin with access from the cockpit.

A high degree of customisation

The starboard hull is divided between the owner’s cabin at the bow, with an office, dressing room, bathroom and magnificent side terrace, and a VIP cabin towards the stern, with an office, storage space and bathroom. Although the décor is fairly simple, it reflects a move upmarket with beautiful finishes. Despite the fact that Lagoon usually imposes certain constraints on interior designers due to mass production, for these large units the manufacturer has given Nauta Design carte blanche to create the interiors. This approach allows for a high degree of customisation, as seen in the “tribal”-inspired furniture in the cockpit. With the Lagoon Eighty 2, the manufacturer is implementing a new philosophy with the aim of attracting a high-end clientele and offering services that are as refined at sea as they are at anchor.