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La Tortue 147: Cataruga's Comfort-Focused 14.7m Aluminium Catamaran

On January 3, 2026 Cataruga unveiled the La Tortue 147, a 14.7 metre aluminium catamaran designed by Jean-Michel Kalfon and built by a small Tunisian yard founded by sailor Jean Sommereux. The model prioritises living space, robust construction and long range cruising capability, positioning it for owners who plan to spend long periods at anchor rather than chase racing performance.

Jamie Taylor2 min read
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La Tortue 147: Cataruga's Comfort-Focused 14.7m Aluminium Catamaran
Source: www.boat-and-yacht.com

Cataruga's new La Tortue 147 presents a clear statement of intent from a boutique builder: make a cruising catamaran that lives comfortably at anchor and survives remote ocean passages. The 14.7 metre aluminium hulls and structure underline a focus on durability and straightforward maintenance, while the overall package favours roomy living areas, practical systems and features that reduce day to day strain on long trips.

The design team pairs founder Jean Sommereux's sailor perspective with designer Jean-Michel Kalfon's multihull experience. That collaboration produces a craft that is framed as an ocean cruiser first and a performance machine second. Key design choices reflect that priority. Raised bridgedeck clearance reduces slamming in waves and improves habitability when passages are long. Cockpits and decks are arranged for extended anchoring stays, with an emphasis on comfort and easy movement while aboard. Systems are specified to be simple and maintainable, an important consideration when cruising far from major service centres.

For owners who spend the majority of their time at anchor, the La Tortue 147 answers practical questions about liveability and independence. Aluminium construction offers toughness and repairability that can be decisive when crossing oceans or visiting remote anchorages. A conservative design brief that values tankage, accessibility of mechanical systems and robust fittings will appeal to sailors who prioritise autonomy and low-maintenance systems over marginal gains in speed.

AI-generated illustration
AI-generated illustration

Cataruga plans to display the La Tortue 147 at boot Düsseldorf in mid-January 2026, giving prospective buyers and brokers the first opportunity to inspect the layout and construction in person. For those evaluating boutique multihull options, the model highlights a growing niche: compact, well built aluminium cats designed around living well rather than record passages. Verify systems access, service options and delivery timelines before committing, and assess how the layout supports your aboard routines if you intend to spend long seasonal blocks at anchor.

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