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By introducing the Lagoon 420 Hybrid, the first series-produced sailboat with diesel-electric drives as standard equipment, Lagoon Catamarans makes a bold statement about its view of the future of sailboat auxiliary propulsion. A generator in a compartment at bridgedeck level meets all of the electrical needs—both propulsion and DC house service. No diesels are under the aft beds. When motoring, the sensation of silent power is striking, and acceleration is instant. Under one 8-kilowatt motor (the other had a software problem while we were aboard), the Lagoon 420 quickly reached 6 knots, and the only sound came from the swirl of the prop.

The massively powerful propellers, which are 17 inches in diameter, convert the 8-kilowatt motors' output into thrust and also spin to generate electricity for charging their batteries when sailing at 7 knots or better; however, this does reduce speed in light air. An optional reaching sail can be set on a short sprit when off the wind to boost speed and power regeneration

In other respects, the 420 is classic Lagoon, with its gullwing bridgedeck and deckhouse with vertical windows enclosing a comfortable, well-lit lounge/dining area and galley. The starboard hull has two cabins, each with a queen-size berth and head and separate shower. The port hull is offered as a mirror of the starboard layout or as an owner's suite with berth, settee, desk, and a large head forward.

In the cockpit, all sail controls—halyards, sheets, and reefing lines—lead to the helm, which is elevated on its own platform at the starboard side of the deckhouse bulkhead. To port, U-shaped bench seating surrounds a table. The entire area lies under the shelter of a rigid roof, supported by four stainless-steel columns.

Lagood 420 Hybrid Specs

LOA:  41' 4"
LWL: 40' 4"
Beam:  24' 7"
Draft: 4' 2"
Sail Area: 809 sq. ft.
Displacement: 25,842 lb.
Water: 92 gal.
Fuel: 79 gal.
Engine: 8-kW. generator, electric drives
Designer: Van Peteghem/Prévost
Price: $520,000
Lagoon America, (410) 280-2368, www.lagoonamerica.com

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