FUNSTER

The 2019 debut of Beneteau Group’s new catamaran brand Excess, built by CNB/Lagoon in France, caused quite a stir among marine journalists and other builders. Given the vast research and development of Beneteau, who own CNB/Lagoon, there was considerable expectation. But company executives, including commercial director Thomas Gailly, were modest about the first Excess 12 and 15 models when we met in Cannes in 2019. The new models used the same nacelles as Lagoons and were described as slightly livelier versions of the company’s longstanding brand.

In 2021 the Excess range comprises model numbers 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 measuring 37 to 50 feet (11.3m to 15.3m) in a roll-out only the vast sheds of CNB’s Bordeaux yard and nearby sister yards, all of them skilled in high-volume catamaran manufacturing, could possibly deliver.

SANCTUARY COVE

The Excess 12 made its Downunder public debut at the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show in May 2021. Having been aboard the range overseas, it was interesting to watch the Australian public’s reaction to the three-cabin, 39-foot hull. Ideally priced and sized for entry-level catamaran sailors, the Excess 12 held wide appeal.

The Excess range