Where: La Rochelle
Conditions 3-7 knots flat water
Model: Hull number two, with options including 2,000W solar panels and 6x200Ah lithium battery pack
Step aboard the wide transom steps of the Aura 51 and I’d challenge even the most stubborn traditionalist or monohull enthusiast not to be in awe of the space and home comforts on offer. For those thinking of spending long periods of time or even living aboard, this is a definitive, modern, large production catamaran, one which – if you’re lucky enough to be in the market for such a substantial yacht – quickly gets you dreaming of a life afloat, with space to take friends, family and toys aplenty.
That was the case for the highly experienced sailing couple who own the second Aura 51 to launch and the boat we trialled. Johan Salen, co-owner of The Ocean Race (formerly the Volvo Ocean Race), lives and works aboard full time with his wife, Christine, and their dog Leo.