Lagoon420
By introducing the Lagoon 420 Hybrid, the first series-produced sailboat with diesel-electric drives as standard equipment, Lagoon Catamarans makes a bold statement about its view of the future of sailboat auxiliary propulsion. A generator in a compartment at bridgedeck level meets all of the electrical needs-both propulsion and DC house service. No diesels are under the aft beds. When motoring, the sensation of silent power is striking, and acceleration is instant. Under one 8-kilowatt motor (the other had a software problem while we were aboard), the Lagoon 420 quickly reached 6 knots, and the only sound came from the swirl of the prop.
The massively powerful propellers, which are 17 inches in diameter, convert the 8-kilowatt motors’ output into thrust and also spin to generate electricity for charging their batteries when sailing at 7 knots or better; however, this does reduce speed in light air. An optional reaching sail can be set on a short sprit when off the wind to boost speed and power regeneration.
In other respects, the 420 is classic Lagoon, with its gullwing bridgedeck and deckhouse with vertical windows enclosing a comfortable, well-lit lounge/dining area and galley. The starboard hull has two cabins, each with a queen-size berth and head and separate shower. The port hull is offered as a mirror of the starboard layout or as an owner’s suite with berth, settee, desk, and a large head forward.
In the cockpit, all sail controls-halyards, sheets, and reefing lines-lead to the helm, which is elevated on its own platform at the starboard side of the deckhouse bulkhead. To port, U-shaped bench seating surrounds a table. The entire area lies under the shelter of a rigid roof, supported by four stainless-steel columns.
Lagood 420 Hybrid Specs
LOA: 41′ 4″
LWL: 40′ 4″
Beam: 24′ 7″
Draft: 4′ 2″
Sail Area: 809 sq. ft.
Displacement: 25,842 lb.
Water: 92 gal.
Fuel: 79 gal.
Engine: 8-kW. generator, electric drives
Designer: Van Peteghem/Prévost
Price: $520,000
Lagoon America, (410) 280-2368, www.lagoonamerica.com
