Yachting Art Magazine

Yot Power Catamarans – The very first photograph of the YOT 53 afloat marks a decisive milestone for YOT Power Catamarans. Previously shown only in computer-generated images, the French brand’s new flagship is now revealed in its actual form. This motor catamaran, measuring 16.20 metres, will make its world debut at the 2026 Yachting Festival, taking place from 8 to 13 September in Cannes.

The YOT 53 moves from concept to reality

This first image allows us, above all, to verify how faithfully the boat adheres to the design drawn up by J&J Design. The YOT 53 retains a powerful silhouette, structured around an imposing central pod, two fairly tall hulls and a spacious flybridge protected by a hard-top.

The long glass panels visually lighten what is inevitably a bulky structure. With a beam of 7.25 metres – extending to 9.95 metres when the side platforms are open – the YOT 53 seeks not so much to conceal its dimensions as to turn them into a living space advantage. The photograph on the water also confirms the prominence of the rooftop, the integration of which was one of the project’s key aesthetic challenges.

This model launches the YOT Inboard range. It thus marks a departure from the YOT 36 and YOT 41, two catamarans fitted with outboard engines and more geared towards day trips. The YOT 53 has been developed for cruising and extended stays on board.

A motor catamaran designed around its outdoor spaces

The layout is based on a seamless flow between the saloon, the aft cockpit and the various decks. A large hinged aft door opens up the hull. It complements the opening side platforms and the central hydraulic platform, which can be used as a swimming area or for handling water sports equipment.

At the bow, the owner’s suite spans the entire width of the catamaran. It comprises a 180 × 200 cm bed, a walk-in wardrobe, a desk, a sofa, a shower room and a separate toilet. A door provides direct access to a private forward cockpit, fitted with benches and sun loungers.

The U-shaped galley is located in the forward section of the hull. This layout frees up the aft area to create a reception area that opens out widely onto the cockpit.

The flybridge, described as a ‘rooftop’ by YOT, combines the helm station, a forward-facing bench seat, a dining area for eight people, an outdoor galley and a sun deck that can accommodate six people. The whole area is sheltered by a hardtop that blends seamlessly into the boat’s overall design.

Two Yanmar engine options and up to four cabins

The YOT 53 will be available with three or four cabins, plus a skipper’s cabin. Depending on the version, it will have three or four bathrooms.

The standard engine configuration comprises two 440 ch Yanmar LY inboard diesel engines. A more powerful configuration, fitted with two 550 ch Yanmar LF engines, will be available as an option. The shipyard has announced a cruising speed of between 15 and 18 knots, though it has not yet disclosed the top speed or detailed fuel consumption figures.

The catamaran carries 1,950 litres of fuel and 750 litres of fresh water. It is classified as CE A for twelve people, a classification consistent with its positioning as a motor catamaran designed for cruising.

A strategic world premiere in Cannes

Built at the Catana Group’s new factory in Aveiro, Portugal, the YOT 53 represents a significant milestone in the development of the brand, launched in 2023. It enables the group – already established in the sailing catamaran market with Catana and Bali – to enter the upper segment of the cruising powercat market.

Its unveiling at the Cannes Yachting Festival will provide the first opportunity to observe its actual dimensions, layout and handling on the water. Following this first glimpse afloat, the YOT 53 is no longer just a digital concept: it is now a boat set to showcase its comparative advantages and unique selling points in the 50-foot powercat market.