2017 Leopard 48

S/V Melynda 2017 Leopard 48 Sailing Catamaran for Sale in Placencia, Belize

Please note the condition, mechanical, and electrical disclosures. Being sold AS-IS.

A recent battery ignition occurred but was caught and contained quickly, though the full extent of damage has yet to be determined. All batteries should be replaced and the heat caused some additional cracking to the cockpit door.

The Leopard 48 has long been a favorite among cruising couples and charter operators for its raised pilothouse helm, three-cabin ensuite layout, and stable, easily handled catamaran platform. Built by Robertson & Caine in Cape Town, South Africa, this 2017 example carries the sail area, beam, and accommodation layout that made the model a go-to choice for both liveaboard cruising and Caribbean charter work.

Melynda is currently based in Placencia, Belize, and was surveyed on March 31, 2026. The survey found the hull structurally sound with no stress marks, cracks, or breaches, and rated the boat above average overall and well maintained by her owner. She is being offered for sale as-is, with a documented list of mechanical and systems work outlined below.

Listing Highlights

• Layout: 3 staterooms, 3 heads, all ensuite; center cockpit salon with access to a forward covered cockpit; aft cockpit with seating and dinette table; raised pilothouse to starboard
• New Tender: 2024 360 tender with 40HP Lingxuan Enduro outboard. 
• Key Equipment: Victron Multiplus 2 48/3000 inverters (2x, 120V), 6-panel solar array with Smart Solar MPPT charge controller, Raymarine 10-inch chartplotter with two side displays, Starlink connectivity, Fusion stereo
• Key Measurements: LOA 48'0", Beam 25'1", Draft 5'0", Sail Area 1,550 sq. ft.
• Condition Note: Above-average, structurally sound hull per the March 2026 survey; Recent battery fire, sold as-is with known mechanical work needed, including engine rebuilds and repair or replacement of the A/C, refrigeration,  generator systems, and batteries/electrical. 

Propulsion & Handling

Melynda is powered by twin Yanmar 4JH57 diesel engines producing 57 HP each, driven through sail drives with three-blade fixed propellers and cable steering. Port engine hours stand at 3,105 and starboard at 2,952, with engines undergoing service at the time of the March 2026 survey.

As part of the current condition disclosure, both engines are noted as needing rebuild work, along with transmission and saildrive replacement. The starboard rudder post and bearing also require attention. The boat is being sold as-is with this work outstanding.

Electronics and Navigation

The helm is equipped with a Raymarine 10-inch chartplotter flanked by two smaller side displays, paired with Raymarine VHF (fixed and handheld) and an autopilot. Starlink is installed for onboard connectivity, along with a Fusion stereo system.

Some of the exterior lighting currently needs attention: navigation and anchor lights are not functioning, and only one spreader light and one deck light are operational, though interior lighting is in good working order.

Electric and Comfort Systems

Power is managed through a 12VDC house system with 110V AC (US power), two Victron Multiplus 2 48/3000 inverters at 120V. A six-panel solar array with a Smart Solar MPPT charge controller along with Victron Multiplus AC/DC charging.

As disclosed in the current condition report, the generator (Northern Lights), all three A/C units, and the refrigeration system are not currently working. The battery bank recently experienced a fire that will need to be addressed. A reverse osmosis watermaker is fitted.

Galley, Salon, and Accommodations

The salon centers on a raised pilothouse to starboard, with a center cockpit layout providing access to a forward covered cockpit and an aft cockpit with seating and a dinette table. The galley is complete and includes a coffee maker, mixer, and blender. A dedicated utility room houses a full-size washer and dryer.

Accommodations comprise three full staterooms and three heads, each with an ensuite. The forepeak includes a captain's quarters to port and additional storage for lines to starboard.

Deck and Cockpit

The aft cockpit features a dinette table for outdoor dining plus a custom counter and sink for preparing fresh catch, and the boat is fitted with a hard top and helm enclosure for weather protection at the helm. Dual stern swim steps and boarding ladders provide water access at the transom.

Melynda was dry-docked in Rio Dulce, Guatemala in January 2026, where new bottom paint was applied ahead of her March 2026 survey. The survey noted the hull finish as dull and faded topsides, recommending cleaning and buffing.

Sailplan

The rig is described in survey as complete and functional, with proper halyard and side, front, and rear mast stays. She carries a mainsail, two jibs, and a spinnaker, all reported to be in great condition.

Sail handling is supported by electric winches and labeled jam cleats on deck.

Safety and Anchoring

An ocean-rated liferaft is aboard. As noted above, navigation and anchor lights are not currently functioning.

On deck, the electric winches are in working order, though the windlass itself is currently operable but continues to trip and need services. The davit winch for the dingy is not operable. This work is included in the as-is disclosure for the vessel.

A new 2024 360 tender with steering wheel helm and Lingxuan 40HP Enduro outboard conveys with sale and is in excellent condition. 

Summary

Melynda offers the proven Leopard 48 layout, a solid, well-maintained hull backed by a March 2026 survey, alongside a clearly documented list of mechanical and electrical work to be completed by her next owner. For buyers looking for a project-ready 48-foot catamaran in Placencia with strong bones and a straightforward path to full functionality, she's worth a closer look. Contact the listing broker through this platform to arrange a viewing or request additional documentation.