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Catamaran Lagoon 380 S2 11.7m review
Catamaran · 38 ft (12 m) · Lisbon
expert score
Key specs
- Builder
- Lagoon
- Model
- 380 S2
- Length
- 38 ft (12 m)
- Guests
- 12
- Cabins
- 3
Verdict
A practical, widely proven cruising catamaran with strong liveaboard appeal, easy shallow-water access, and good family charter utility. It is not a fast or especially sporty sailor, but its layout, stability, and efficient twin-engine handling make it a dependable all-rounder.
Pros
- +Wide beam gives very good interior and deck space for a 38-footer
- +Shallow draft suits bays, anchorages, and coastal cruising
- +Twin engines improve maneuvering in tight marinas
- +Proven production design with broad charter and owner-user appeal
Cons
- −Not a high-performance catamaran; speed to windward is modest
- −Older examples may show wear in sail, rigging, and systems
- −Space and privacy are good for a small group, but limited for larger crews
- −Many boats are fitted for cruising, so equipment level varies widely
The Lagoon 380 S2 is a compact cruising catamaran with a very usable layout for its size. Its broad beam and relatively low draft make it practical for coastal sailing, island hopping, and anchoring in shallow water. The design prioritizes volume and accessibility over performance, which is typical of the model and part of its appeal.
On the water, the boat is generally described as stable and easy to live with, but not especially quick or sporty. The fractional sloop rig and moderate sail plan suit relaxed cruising rather than aggressive upwind work. Twin diesel engines are a real advantage in marinas and confined harbors, where catamarans benefit from differential thrust and predictable low-speed control.
Comfort is one of the strongest points. A 3-cabin version offers a practical arrangement for private use or charter, with good separation between living spaces and a bright saloon typical of the class. For a 38-footer, the Lagoon 380 S2 is efficient and comfortable, though buyers should expect older 2008 examples to vary considerably in maintenance condition.
From a value perspective, it remains attractive because it is a well-known, widely supported model with strong charter-market recognition. It offers a lot of usable boat for the money, but the best purchases are carefully maintained examples with updated sails, rigging, and mechanical systems.
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