With the BGF45, Bluegame is transferring technology - and yet it's still keeping a low profile: at first glance, the cat does not reveal that foils under the hulls ensure driving comfort and fuel efficiency. And that is not its only secret.
You could say that Bluegames BGF45 is much more than a new power catamaran. It is a floating statement about the direction in which modern motor yacht construction could develop. With a length of 14.15 metres and a width of 5.12 metres, the model initially looks unspectacular on paper. Especially as competitor models such as the Leopard 46 with a similar length, it spans over two metres more. But it is precisely this apparent restraint that lies at the heart of the concept: With the BGF45, Bluegame is not focussing on maximum internal width, but on hydrodynamic efficiency, structural precision and a design language that remains deliberately slim.
At the centre is an element that makes this approach possible in the first place: a permanently installed foil between the hulls, which generates lift at higher speeds and reduces water resistance. It is far more than just a technical accessory. Its roots lie in the America's Cup and are therefore not far removed from the motorboat brand founded by former professional sailor Luca Santella in 2004, which is now part of the Sanlorenzo Group. For the 2024 edition of the Cup, Bluegame developed the hydrogen-powered, fully foiling chase boat BGH-HSV, which was used by the American Magic and Orient Express Racing teams. The knowledge gained about wing geometry, load distribution and hydrodynamic stability was directly incorporated into the series development. However, the BGF45 favours gentle technology transfer. The rigid transverse wing does not continuously adapt to the wave and flight pattern under the control of an algorithm - unlike the electrofoiler, for example. Candela is the case.
Soothing restraint in the lines
On the jetty, the first thing you notice is the unusual presence of the BGF45. Clearly marked and without any exaggeration, the cat lies in the water as if it only wants to reveal its capabilities at sea. The lines appear focussed, almost sporty and ascetic. And yet the careful elaboration of every detail indicates that far more is to be expected here than just another motor yacht in the 14-metre class for the top ten thousand.
In practical tests, the effect of the wing can be seen from around 18 to 20 knots. The stern remains in the water, but the bow lifts noticeably, which means that waves are cut over more gently or even flown over. The result is a sailing experience similar to that of larger or more specialised yachts: calm, composed and remarkably light.
On our test drive off Cannes - with a boat full of eight people and a fuel reserve of 35 per cent - the BGF45 reached a maximum speed of 38.1 knots. According to the shipyard, fuel consumption can be reduced by up to 30 per cent at cruising speed, which is around 28 knots, which is good for both your budget and the environment.
Bluegame BGF45: more efficient, faster and quieter thanks to Foil
It is also striking that even at higher speeds, the noise level in the cockpit remains pleasantly moderate and vibrations are barely perceptible. The combination of foil and IPS drives means that the boat lifts off the water even at cruising speed. Only minimally, but this already leads to less droning and bumps. Nevertheless, handling remains uncomplicated. Volvo Pentas IPS drives allow precise manoeuvres. The combination of slim hulls, low resistance and foil-supported stability conveys a driving experience that is neither sporty and nervous nor sluggish.
Equally interesting is how well-balanced the BGF45 reacts to changing seas. The narrow waterlines cut waves precisely without crashing hard. And the cat remains under control even when the wind and waves attack from the side. Purists may find this too good-natured, but for most owners this calmness is a decisive advantage. Below deck, the BGF45 proves that efficiency and comfort need not be at odds with each other. At the front and across the entire width of the catamaran, the largest of the two cabins extends in a kind of hull formed by the soft centre stern. There is also a flexibly usable third space - a layout that is rarely found in this class and is more reminiscent of more voluminous models such as the Aquila 46.
Lots of light, air and space below deck
Large window areas, which do not immediately reveal the painted perforations as such from the outside, send plenty of daylight into the interior, while lightweight composite materials and carbon elements reduce the "take-off weight". The guest cabin and bathroom are functional and convey a modern, maritime ambience.
This impression is also continued on deck. The hydraulically lowerable bathing platform acts as water access, tender station, dock ladder or lounge area just above the waterline. An aisle in the extra-wide sunbed leads into the well-designed cockpit with folding table, comfortable seating area and discreetly integrated galley under the hardtop. This is where the strength of the Italians comes to the fore: function and design, developed with their long-standing partner Zuccon International Project. The Italian shipyard's excellent mastery of this interplay is also evident in other models in its premium range - and in the workmanship. The transitions between the materials are flawless, hinges and fittings close tightly, and even concealed storage compartments reveal the care with which the Ligurian yacht builders go about their work.
With the BGF45, Bluegame has succeeded in bridging the gap between high technology from the America's Cup and the increasing demands of owners for comfort, elegance and environmental awareness. Thanks to the foil, the Powerkat not only reduces fuel consumption, but also the wave impact potential - an aspect that is gaining in importance in increasingly sensitive coastal areas.
Technical data of the Bluegame BGF45
- Length over everything: 14,15 m
- Width: 5,12 m
- Depth: 1,15 m
- Weight (loaded): 17 t
- Motors: 2 x 269 kW, D6-IPS500
- Speed (max.): 38 kn
- Speed (travelling): 28 kn
- Design: Luca Santella & Zuccon International Project
- Price: from € 1,800,000 Sales
- Test boat: bluegamegermany.com
- Shipyard: Bluegame, 2025
