The judging process includes both inspection and sailing

Fountaine Pajot says the Boat of the Year jury evaluates build quality, ergonomics and onboard systems at the dock before taking nominated yachts onto Chesapeake Bay for sea trials. That creates a broader test than awards based primarily on design presentation or specifications.

For owners, the value of this format is that practical sailing behaviour and systems use are considered alongside finish. A cruising catamaran has to work in motion, not only look spacious at anchor.

FP41 represents the smallest nominated platform

The FP41 sits around twelve metres and is designed around simple handling, an open cockpit-to-saloon connection and multiple living areas including a forward cockpit. Fountaine Pajot positions it as a family cruising yacht that remains manageable with a reduced crew.

Its nomination is notable because compact dimensions make space planning and system integration difficult. Delivering several social zones without creating excessive weight or awkward circulation requires careful decisions about structure and layout.

FP44 expands the same philosophy into a larger owner yacht

The FP44 adds more volume while retaining the brand's focus on fluid movement between interior and exterior spaces. Owners gain more accommodation and deck area without leaving the private, owner-operated size band that defines much of the LYG market.

That extra scale can improve comfort on longer trips, but it also changes sail loads, berthing and maintenance. Awards are most meaningful when buyers still compare the nominated yacht against the practical realities of how they intend to use it.

FP55 pushes toward the upper end of private cruising

The FP55 moves the concept into a larger flybridge catamaran intended for long-distance cruising and extended time aboard. It remains below 24 metres while offering significantly more separation between guest, owner and social zones.

Taken together, the three nominations show how Fountaine Pajot is applying one design direction across several sizes. For LYG readers, the relevant question is not which yacht won the most attention, but which level of space and complexity best matches the owner's cruising programme.

Official sources: www.catamarans-fountaine-pajot.com.