Stephane Poughon’s bluewater experiences showed him that a power catamaran was the modern choice for a proper cruising yacht. Poughon, president of fledgling Sophie Yachts in Monaco, selected experienced multihull naval architects Marc Van Peteghem and Vincent Lauriot Prévost (VPLP) for his company’s first build. He enlisted Oceanco for its megayacht design knowledge and then selected JT Marine in Zuhai, China, to build the 61-footer. The collaborative result is due for a July 2006 launch. A 51-footer and a 71-footer are in the design phase.

The 61’s 1,560 square feet of living space comprises two queen VIP staterooms, a master suite, a wheelhouse, a galley and a dinette. A teak platform lowers from under the wing deck to connect the two sterns at anchor, providing tender dockage and a swim platform. A pair of 660-hp Caterpillar engines should produce a top speed of 28 knots. At 10 knots she is projected to have a 3,300-nm transatlantic range. (Click image to enlarge)

Contact Sophie Yachts at 377 93 10 02 87. www.sophieyachts.com