Astrea 42

The Astrea 42 is a 12.6-meter fractional sloop catamaran designed by Berret-Racoupeau and built by Fountaine Pajot between 2018 and 2025. With a 7.2-meter beam and 1.2-meter draft, it displaces 11,499 kg. The model is available with optional 2x 40 hp engines and Smart Electric power. Aboard *Sailing Catamaran Tumbleweed*, an Astrea 42 motored through the Chesapeake Bay in light winds, where commercial traffic and crab pots demanded constant attention. The crew diverted to St. Simon's Sound, Georgia, after encountering 25-knot winds and 10-foot seas, having consumed 70% of their fuel over 500 nautical miles. Rounding Cape Hatteras, the Astrea 42 experienced heavy slamming in 10-foot standing waves caused by 25-knot northerly winds opposing the Gulf Stream, forcing the crew to drop sails and motor. The crew of *Sailing Catamaran Tumbleweed* also addressed repeated engine failures caused by manufacturing debris in the fuel lines and an autopilot software malfunction that resulted in an uncommanded 360-degree turn. During an offshore passage down the U.S. East Coast, the Astrea 42 encountered confused seas and unpredicted weather, leading to proactive sail reduction and a diversion to St. Simon's Sound to avoid a predicted 35-knot low-pressure system.