The HH55: A Reminder of Why These Cats Are So Remarkable
While preparing the listing for HH55 Aha Moment, I stumbled upon an old Cruising World article that brought back a flood of memories. In 2018, the HH55 was named “Best Cruising Catamaran” in the magazine’s Boat of the Year awards — and rereading that piece reminded me why these yachts made such an impression on me in the first place.
I still remember the first time I stepped aboard an HH catamaran: the carbon detailing, the precision of every fitting, the balance between raw performance and quiet confidence. It wasn’t just another high-end multihull — it was a clear statement of what happens when design, technology, and craftsmanship come together with real purpose.
Reading Cruising World’s review again today, it’s easy to see how timeless that achievement was. The HH55 wasn’t built to chase trends; it was built to redefine what a cruising cat could be.
Below you’ll find the original review — a perfect reminder of the innovation and ambition that shaped the HH line, and a glimpse into the pedigree behind Aha Moment, now available through Rossinante Yachts.
Cruising World Names HH55 “Best Cruising Catamaran” in 2018 Boat of the Year Awards
“Light, fast and exquisitely executed, the HH55 is a unique cruising cat that an experienced couple can sail with confidence and aplomb.”
— Jon Whittle, Cruising World
If you’re passionate about performance catamarans—if cost were no object, and you dreamed of a yacht that combines cutting-edge technology, luxury, and true short-handed capability—your search would end here.
Ladies and gentlemen, meet the HH55.
Built in China to uncompromising standards, the HH55 is the creation of world-renowned multihull designers Gino Morrelli and Pete Melvin, working alongside New Zealander Paul Hakes. Together, they’ve reimagined what a high-performance cruising catamaran can be. With deep roots in the pioneering Gunboat lineage, the HH55 takes that concept forward into a new generation—sleeker, faster, and more refined.
Visually, the 55-footer looks like it sailed in from the future. Its long, efficient waterline, reverse sheer, and aggressive wave-piercing bows exude purpose. Inside, the layout blends performance and practicality: a forward helm within the saloon (with optional twin aft helms) opens to a protected working cockpit where all lines and sheets are managed cleanly and efficiently.
The HH55’s construction and systems are equally advanced. Carbon fiber is used throughout, combined with infused epoxy resins and Core-Cell foam cores for strength, stiffness, and insulation. Lightweight aramid rigging replaces traditional rod wire. The pre-preg carbon mast and V-boom are autoclave-cured, while a C-Zone digital monitoring network, integrated with B&G Hercules electronics and lithium-ion power, gives the yacht a futuristic level of control and efficiency.
Below deck, customization is encouraged. The owner’s suite can span the entire port hull, with guest cabins to starboard. The saloon features a bright, open galley, generous dining space, and sliding glass doors that merge seamlessly with the aft cockpit—complete with lounge area, outdoor galley, and barbecue. Every inch reflects luxury and thoughtful design.
Under sail, the HH55 delivers exhilarating yet effortless performance. During Cruising World’s Chesapeake Bay trials, in just 11 knots of breeze, the cat glided across the water “like a hot knife through butter.” Responsive curved daggerboards, precise steering, and impeccable balance left the judges captivated. Only her larger sister, the HH66, outperformed her in raw speed.
Judge Bill Bolin praised the galley’s layout:
“It’s exceptional—U-shaped, deep, and secure. The crew stays out of traffic patterns, whether moving through the hulls or to the heads. Very well thought out.”
Ed Sherman added:
“The builders proved they can deliver a true cruising catamaran that’s fast, elegant, and easily handled by a couple. It’s a really cool boat.”
At over $2.5 million, the HH55 is undeniably exclusive—but for those who understand what she represents, she’s worth every cent. It’s difficult to imagine a more thrilling expression of modern multihull design.