Before the Excess 13 Catamaran made her United States debut at the Annapolis Sailboat Show, our team had the opportunity to tour her with Hervé Piveteau, Product Manager for Excess Catamarans. Hervé worked closely with the Lombard Design Team to bring this next-generation model to life.
Here are our five favorite features that stood out aboard the all-new Excess 13:
Dedicated Working & Navigation Stations
In today’s world of remote work and global connectivity, more sailors are blending business with cruising life. The Excess 13 embraces this trend with dedicated spaces for both navigation and work.
In the salon, a forward-facing navigation station offers complete control of the boat’s systems, including tanks, breakers, and chartplotter, while also serving as an ideal workstation for those who need to stay connected at sea. It’s a thoughtful response to how modern sailors actually live and cruise.
Folding Transoms
At first glance, one of the most striking features aboard the Excess 13 is her folding transoms. When deployed, they provide effortless access to the water – perfect for swimming, launching a dinghy, or simply relaxing at anchor.
When raised, the transoms create a secure, enclosed helm area, making the aft deck exceptionally safe for kids and pets while under way. It’s a clever balance between safety, functionality, and comfort.
Hard Top Biminis
The hardtop biminis over each helm station add durability, protection, and versatility. They not only hold up better over time than traditional canvas but also provide a solid structure for mounting isinglass panels -ensuring excellent visibility and shelter in all weather conditions. You’ll have all the protection you need to brave all of the elements on the helm – unless of course youd’ rather tuck yourself into that dedicated nav station where it’s nice and dry.
Light & Sporty Aesthetics Throughout
From the moment you step aboard, the Excess 13’s sleek, modern styling makes a strong impression. Black metal stanchions and handrails, dynamic lines, and the low-profile coachroof all contribute to a sense of performance and sportiness that’s distinctly “Excess.”
This is not just a catamaran that looks fast — it feels fast, even at the dock.
Anti-glare Display Shield
Small details make a big difference, and this is a great example of Groupe Beneteau’s feedback-driven innovation. The Excess 13 features an anti-glare shield forward of the Garmin displays, which significantly improves screen visibility in bright sunlight.
It’s a subtle touch, but one that shows how much attention the design team pays to real-world usability.
Bonus: Bigger, More Connected Cockpit
One of the most exciting evolutions on the Excess 13 is how seamlessly the cockpit and salon flow together. By moving the bulkhead just over a foot forward, the design team created a massive open space where indoor and outdoor living blend effortlessly.
Dual sliding doors extend past the galley countertop, creating a unified environment that makes entertaining, dining, or simply relaxing feel completely natural.
Final Thoughts
The Excess 13 Catamaran represents a significant step forward for the brand, combining modern liveaboard comfort, smart design, and the sporty DNA that sailors love about Excess. After touring her in Annapolis, it’s clear this model was built for those who want to work, live, and play on the water – all without compromise.