Best Multihull Cruising Boat Under 50ft
Excess 11
The Excess 11 cruising catamaran was designed by VPLP and features twin chines running well aft, both to increase interior volume and create a strikingly different exterior aesthetic. The smallest of the three models in the Excess (or XCE) line thus far—the other two models are the XCS 12 and 15—it is also the first all-new design in the fleet. As such, she does an exceptional job of combining comfort with performance under sail, a hallmark of the Excess concept.
As is the case with the 12 and 15, the Excess 11 is equipped with twin helm stations set well aft on the hulls and no flybridge. Usually, these kinds of outboard helms mean you can see the transoms and bow immediately forward no problem, but the opposite bow is completely obscured. In the case of the Excess 11, however, you can easily see through the saloon to the opposite corner via a set of vertical windows that have even been thoughtfully made clear (rather than tinted) in the interest of maximizing visibility.
The Excess 11 is available with three or four cabins, and both versions come with two heads: one in the master suite in the port hull (if that configuration is selected); one shared by the two cabins to starboard. The saloon and galley are compact, but lack for nothing, with plenty of refrigeration, seating and countertop and storage space. The interior aesthetic is clean and minimalist.
The 57ft Z-Spar rig and Incidence sails delivered a good turn of speed during out test sail. There’s also the option of a turbocharged PulseLine package, which adds 3ft to the mast and 59ft2 of canvas to the sailplan. With a self-tacking jib and a Code 0 flying from the optional sprit, the boat can be easily sailed by a couple. In the course of our spirited test sail out on Chesapeake Bay, the boat tack and jibed effortlessly. In short, it’s a great performer that will do well in a wide range of conditions for both neophytes and veterans. excess-catamarans.com
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