STRETCHING BOUNDARIES

The aluminium sailing catamaran for exploration

Pushing the limits

radical.

all-terrain.

SERENITY.

The Garcia Explocat 52, a two-hull version of the Garcia Exploration concept, offers a new way to explore the world in a 52-foot catamaran. The Explocat adds the qualities of aluminium to the surface areas and living spaces offered by two hulls: structural rigidity and material safety. Radical in design and look, the Explocat 52 is a true all-terrain sailor.

This aluminium catamaran knows how to venture into the most extreme regions, in complete safety, at high daily averages. The rigidity resulting from its aluminium structure ensures that this extraordinary catamaran is ideal for serene expeditions.

TheExplocat 52 offers catamarans the possibility of sailing in extreme areas previously reserved for monohulls, at high daily averages.

Hulls &
structures
aluminium

Length
overall

55,61 ft
16,95 m

Beam

26,90 ft
8,20 m

Upwind sail

1830 sqft
170m2

Gennaker /Spinnaker

Gennaker

2045 sqft
190m2

Displacement

41 lbs
18.6 t

Layout

3-4 Cabins

The freedom to sail where few ever go

A SHALLOW DRAFT TO GO ANYWHERE


Thanks to its shallow draft, our Explocat 52 aluminum catamaran can access lagoons, shallow waters and the most remote and tranquil beaches. Even the most adventurous can venture into poorly mapped areas. In the event of very bad weather, it's also the reassuring possibility of accessing highly protected, even shallow, sheltered areas.

LARGE TANKS FOR SELF-SUFFICIENCY


With its 660 L freshwater tanks and 1100 L diesel tanks, theExplocat 52 can sail far away from marinas for long periods, completely independently. Hydrogenerator, Solar panels, Generator, energy autonomy is also ensured by various equipment to choose from in this catamaran ready for expedition. The most remote regions are thus accessible for long stays, in complete autonomy.

Plenty of storage space


The Explocat 52, with its numerous interior stowages, large sail compartments and voluminous exterior storage areas, offers remarkable carrying capacity. Nautical toys, sports equipment such as skis or scuba tanks can be taken on board for any type of leisure or exploration.

EASILY ACCESSIBLE SYSTEMS


On every Garcia, the boat's components are accessible: every hull, every tank inlet and outlet, every system... And on the Explocat 52, all technical equipment is easily accessible for maintenance.

GO ANYWHERE,
SAFELY

THE SERENITY OF ALUMINIUM HULLS

The 52-foot aluminium hulls, with thicknesses ranging from 5 to 12 mm, provide foolproof impact resistance in the event of a nasty encounter. For added peace of mind, the structure features two watertight bulkheads at the bow and stern, upstream of the helm system. In addition, the nacelle is raised 85 cm above the waterline, higher than on conventional catamarans. This limits the impact of cross-waves and choppy seas, offering unrivalled sailing comfort, even in rough seas.

PROTECTION IN ROUGH SEAS

The helm stations and piano are protected, allowing you to maneuver in dry conditions, sheltered from wind, spray and bad weather - even in heavy seas. This configuration offers real peace of mind when sailing, without compromising visibility or efficiency. The extreme rigidity of the aluminium platform eliminates vibrations and parasitic noise. The result: a rare level of acoustic comfort, even in rough weather, for a safe, silent and fluid sailing experience.

PROTECTED APPENDAGES

The saildrive propellers on both hulls are protected by aluminium fins. The aluminium rudders also feature a composite sacrificial zone at the top. In the event of impact, should the bit bend, the hulls are preserved and the rudders remain functional.

a new
dimension
comfort

A DIRECT CONNECTION WITH THE ENVIRONMENT


From the nacelle, whether you're seated at the chart table, sitting in the saloon or standing and snug in the galley of this ocean-going catamaran, a 360° view opens up to the outside, offering an intimate connection to your surroundings, both underway and at anchor. 

THERMAL INSULATION


Extreme cold or tropical heat, with its 74 mm hull thermal insulation and insulated floors, the Explocat 52 protects its crew from extreme temperatures. In hot zones, with the forward cockpit door open, ventilation of the nacelle is maximized. In cold zones, the boat can be heated by radiators fed by a central diesel-fired boiler. This ensures even, silent heat distribution. This equipment also provides soundproofing, both at sea and at anchor in high winds. Aboard the Explocat 52, comfort is total and serene. 

A FINISH TO MATCH YOUR REQUIREMENTS

Every detail on board reflects the exacting standards and refinement that are the Garcia signature. Materials are selected for their quality, durability and aesthetic appeal, then meticulously assembled. The interior design, by Franck Darnet, combines contemporary elegance, functionality at sea and warmth for living. The lighting, carefully studied, combines abundant natural light with leds strips to create a soothing ambience, day and night. Wood trim, upholstery or hull color... each yacht can be tastefully customized to reflect the personality of its owners. Because living aboard a Garcia means choosing an aesthetic as demanding as your program.

A forward cockpit that extends the interior space


The Explocat 52 offers a forward cockpit, directly accessible from inside the nacelle, thanks to a secure watertight door. From the aft to the forward cockpit, the passage through the interior is on the same level, through large openings. The outside is an extension of the inside. In good weather, the forward cockpit also provides a perfect watch area for navigating through the ice. In warmer weather, the forward cockpit is a second outdoor living area, offering an unobstructed view and gentle coolness at the end of the day.

performance and
maneuverability

MODERN AND EFFICIENT HULLS


Designed by Pierre Delion, theExplocat 52 's hulls offer an exceptional balance for performance and sea passage. The boat's aluminium structure offers total rigidity, whatever the wind and sea conditions. Easy to trim, Explocat 52 ocean-going sailboats achieve daily averages in excess of 220 miles, with peak speeds of up to 17 knots. aluminium catamaran crossings are fast, comfortable and soothing. 

EASY TO MANEUVER SHORT-HANDED


The Explocat 52 is designed for easy and safe handling by a small crew. The external helm station of the Explocat 52 features a pivoting helm wheel, allowing the skipper to steer from a low, protected position under the hardtop, or from a raised, open-air position for optimal visibility in fair weather. All routine sail-handling operations are centralized in one place, on the starboard side, just aft of the helm station, with excellent ergonomics. Less frequent tasks, such as adjusting the headsail halyards, are performed from the forward cockpit, offering a direct line of sight to the mast.

architect's analysis


Architect for some of the world's biggest boatyards and author of numerous one-offs,
Olivier Racoupeau is the architect behind the Garcia Exploration monohulls .

This first video in a 4-part web series presents the choice of aluminium sailboats and the advantages of centerboarder.

Watch the entire web series on the Youtube channel. Garcia Yachts.

Plans & versions

1 OWNER'S SUITE WITH BATHROOM
2 GUEST CABINS
1 GUEST BATHROOM
‍LAUNDRY ROOM

1 OWNER'S SUITE WITH BATHROOM
2 GUEST CABINS
2 GUEST BATHROOMS

4 CABINS
4 BATHROOMS

Plans & versions

3 DOUBLE CABINS
2 BATHROOMS
1 FRONT DRESSING ROOM
1 REAR WORKSHOP

1 FULL WIDTH CABIN
2 DOUBLE CABINS
2 BATHROOMS
1 DAY TOILET
1 FRONT WORKSHOP

4 DOUBLE CABINS
2 BATHROOMS
1 FRONT WORKSHOP

Plans & versions

2 DOUBLE CABINS
1 SINGLE CABIN
2 BATHROOMS
1 STORAGE AREA

4 DOUBLE CABINS
2 BATHROOMS

Plans & versions

2 DOUBLE CABINS
2 BATHROOMS
1 TECHNICAL ROOM
1 SEA BOUNCER

2 DOUBLE CABINS
2 BATHROOMS INCLUDING 1 WITH Separate shower compartment
1 TECHNICAL ROOM
1 SEA BANNET

3 DOUBLE CABINS
2 BATHROOMS
1 BUNK BED

compare the technical specifications of our monohulls

Architect and Designer
Overall length
hull beam
Draft (centerboard down)
Draft (centerboard up)
Air draft (excluding antenna)
Displacement
Lest
Upwind sail - aluminum mast.
Gennaker / Spinnaker
Engine
Diesel capacity
Water capacity
Number of cabins
Number of berths

Overall length 16.95 m

hull width 8.20 m

Draft 1.50 m

Air draft 24.60 m

Displacement (est.) 18.6 t

Upwind sail area 170 m².

Gennaker / Spinnaker 190 m²

2 x 60 HP engine

Diesel capacity (est.) 2 x 550 l

Water capacity (est.) 660 l

Number of cabins 3-4

Sleeps 6-8-10

Architect and Designer
Overall length
hull beam
Draft (centerboard down)
Draft (centerboard up)
Air draft (excluding antenna)
Displacement
Lest
Upwind sail - aluminum mast.
Gennaker / Spinnaker
Engine
Diesel capacity
Water capacity
Number of cabins
Number of berths

Architect and Designer
Overall length
hull beam
Draft (centerboard down)
Draft (centerboard up)
Air draft (excluding antenna)
Displacement
Lest
Upwind sail - aluminum mast.
Gennaker / Spinnaker
Engine
Diesel capacity
Water capacity
Number of cabins
Number of berths

Cabinet Berret - Racoupeau
48,82 ft / 14,88 m
14,56 ft / 4,44 m
9,50 ft / 2,90 m
3,74 ft / 1,14 m
64,96 ft / 19,80 m
32 lbs / 14,61 t
10 lbs / 4,54 t
980 sqft / 91 m2
980-1720 sqft / 90-160 m2
80 CV / 59,5 kW
185 US gal / 700 l
132 US gal / 500 l
2 - 3
5 - 6 - 8

Architect and Designer
Overall length
Hull beam
Draft (centerboard down)
Draft (centerboard up)
Air draft (excluding antenna) - aluminium mast
Displacement
Lest
Upwind sail - aluminium mast
Gennaker / Spinnaker
Engine
Diesel capacity
Water capacity
Number of cabins
Number of berths

Cabinet Berret - Racoupeau
48,82 ft / 14,88 m
14,56 ft / 4,44 m
9,50 ft / 2,90 m
3,74 ft / 1,14 m
64,96 ft / 19,80 m
32 lbs / 14,61 t
10 lbs / 4,54 t
980 sqft / 91 m2
980-1720 sqft / 90-160 m2
80 CV / 59,5 kW
185 US gal / 700 l
132 US gal / 500 l
2 - 3
5 - 6 - 8

Architect and Designer
Overall length
hull beam
Draft (centerboard down)
Draft (centerboard up)
Air draft (excluding antenna)
Displacement
Lest
Upwind sail - aluminum mast.
Gennaker / Spinnaker
Engine
Diesel capacity
Water capacity
Number of cabins
Number of berths

Architect and Designer
Overall length
hull beam
Draft (centerboard down)
Draft (centerboard up)
Air draft (excluding antenna)
Displacement
Lest
Upwind sail - aluminum mast.
Gennaker / Spinnaker
Engine
Diesel capacity
Water capacity
Number of cabins
Number of berths

Cabinet Berret - Racoupeau
54.62 ft / 16.65 m
15.75 ft / 4.80 m
9.50 ft / 2.90 m
4.16 ft / 1.27 m
70.54 ft / 21,50 m
43 lbs / 19,5 t
14,48 lbs / 6,57 t
1292 sqft / 120,05 m2
1399-2002 sqft / 130-186m2
115 CV / 85 kW
317 US gal / 1200 l
211 US gal / 880 l
3 - 4
5 - 6 - 8

Architect and Designer
Overall length
Hull beam
Draft (centerboard down)
Draft (centerboard up)
Air draft (excluding antenna) - aluminium mast
Displacement
Lest
Upwind sail - aluminium mast
Gennaker / Spinnaker
Engine
Diesel capacity
Water capacity
Number of cabins
Number of berths

Cabinet Berret - Racoupeau
54.62 ft / 16.65 m
15.75 ft / 4.80 m
9.50 ft / 2.90 m
4.16 ft / 1.27 m
70.54 ft / 21,50 m
43 lbs / 19,5 t
14,48 lbs / 6,57 t
1292 sqft / 120,05 m2
1399-2002 sqft / 130-186m2
115 CV / 85 kW
317 US gal / 1200 l
211 US gal / 880 l
3 - 4
5 - 6 - 8

Architect and Designer
Overall length
hull beam
Draft (centerboard down)
Draft (centerboard up)
Air draft (excluding antenna)
Displacement
Lest
Upwind sail - aluminum mast.
Gennaker / Spinnaker
Engine
Diesel capacity
Water capacity
Number of cabins
Number of berths

Architect and Designer
Overall length
hull beam
Draft (centerboard down)
Draft (centerboard up)
Air draft (excluding antenna)
Displacement
Lest
Upwind sail - aluminum mast.
Gennaker / Spinnaker
Engine
Diesel capacity
Water capacity
Number of cabins
Number of berths

Cabinet Berret - Racoupeau
63.97 ft / 19,50 m
17.72 ft / 5,40 m
11.97 ft / 3,65 m
4.92 ft / 1.50 m
83.33 ft / 25.4 m
77 lbs / 35 t
21.27 lbs / 9.65 t
1813 sqft / 168.40 m2
1830-2476 sqft / 170-230 m2
182 CV / 135 kW
660 US gal / 2,500 l
211 US gal / 800 l
2 - 4
4 - 6 - 8

Architect and Designer
Overall length
Hull beam
Draft (centerboard down)
Draft (centerboard up)
Air draft (excluding antenna) - aluminium mast
Displacement
Lest
Upwind sail - aluminium mast
Gennaker / Spinnaker
Engine
Diesel capacity
Water capacity
Number of cabins
Number of berths

Cabinet Berret - Racoupeau
63.97 ft / 19,50 m
17.72 ft / 5,40 m
11.97 ft / 3,65 m
4.92 ft / 1.50 m
83.33 ft / 25.4 m
77 lbs / 35 t
21.27 lbs / 9.65 t
1813 sqft / 168.40 m2
1830-2476 sqft / 170-230 m2
182 CV / 135 kW
660 US gal / 2,500 l
211 US gal / 800 l
2 - 4
4 - 6 - 8

questions & answers

Find out the answers to the most frequently asked questions here.
What makes the Explocat 52 an exploration catamaran?
What's the main difference between an Explocat 52 aluminium catamaran and a polyester catamaran?
What are the possible layouts for the Garcia Explocat 52?

See our FAQ page for answers to your questions.

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