The 42m Douce France is not just another sailing catamaran — she is a landmark yacht in the history of multihull design.
Launched in 1998 after nearly a decade of development, she was the largest cruising catamaran in the world at the time, a technical achievement that pushed the limits of aluminium yacht construction. Even today, she remains one of the very few schooner-rigged catamarans of this scale.
Built entirely in aluminium — including her masts and spars — Douce France was awarded “Most Innovative Sailing Yacht” at the Monaco Yacht Show, highlighting the uniqueness of her design and engineering.
Engineering & Sailing Performance
With an impressive beam of over 15 metres, Douce France offers exceptional stability at sea, far beyond what traditional monohulls can provide.
Her schooner rig, combined with a sail area of approximately 400 sqm, allows her to reach cruising speeds of around 15 knots while maintaining a smooth and comfortable motion even on extended passages.
This combination of performance and comfort makes her particularly suited to long-range exploration across remote regions where reliability and seaworthiness are essential.
Space & Living on Douce France
What truly sets Douce France apart is her extraordinary onboard volume.
Her wide beam creates expansive living areas rarely found on sailing yachts:
- A panoramic flybridge ideal for navigation and relaxation
- A spacious aft deck designed for elegant al fresco dining
- Forward trampolines offering a direct connection to the ocean
Inside, the yacht features a bright and welcoming atmosphere, with large windows and a refined blend of teak finishes and contemporary design elements.
Accommodation
Douce France accommodates up to 12 guests in 6 cabins, including:
- 2 double cabins
- 4 convertible cabins
All cabins are equipped with ensuite bathrooms and designed for comfort during extended voyages.
A Yacht Designed for Exploration
Unlike many yachts limited to classic cruising grounds, Douce France is built for true expedition-style sailing in luxury conditions.
Her cruising areas include:
Her autonomy and seaworthiness allow access to destinations far beyond the reach of most charter yachts.
Why Douce France Stands Apart
Built for the World’s Most Remote Destinations
Douce France is not chosen for a typical yachting itinerary — she is selected by clients who want to go further.
Her design, range and seaworthiness allow access to some of the most remote and untouched regions on the planet, far beyond the reach of most charter yachts.
From the isolated islands of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands to the vast archipelagos of the South Pacific, Douce France makes it possible to explore destinations where infrastructure is limited, distances are significant and true autonomy is essential.
This is not a yacht for crowded anchorages or standard cruising routes. It is a yacht for those seeking rare, off-the-map experiences, where each itinerary is defined by exploration rather than proximity.
