Rounding the Cape of Good Hope at the bottom of the continent of Africa is one of the great boating challenges of the world. Perhaps this is the reason that South Africa is the second largest exporter of catamarans in the world, right behind France. This is quite an accomplishment, given that the reputation of South African boat builders has only been established in the past 20 years or so. The experience gained from building boats that can withstand severe weather has give the South African builders a superior edge. For more information about the powercat industry in South Africa, see this excellent article by Gregor Tarjan of Aeroyacht Ltd.

The ArrowCat 30 power catamaran has been described as part of the “next generation” of powercats, with an emphasis on family cruising.

First introduced in New Zealand as a family-friendly alternative to a larger powercat yacht, the design of this premium midsized powercat emphasizes the amenities a family can appreciate while cruising.

A full topside galley includes stove, microwave and refrigerator and the bathroom features shower, sink and a full-size electric toilet. Sleeping quarters comfortably accommodate up to six people.

The ArrowCat 30 was on display this summer at the Seattle Boat Show, where it received the same interest shown on the East Coast and in Australia and New Zealand.

More in this Video with Captain Ron Svoboda:

The APBA – American Power Boat Association – is the authority on U.S. powerboat racing. A wide range of membership levels are available, from fan to competitor. Some of the benefits of membership include a subscription to the association’s Propeller magazine and various discounts, with the racing membership including a racing license. The APBA was founded in 1903 and its first major race was the Gold Challenge Cup on the Hudson River in 1904. With the exception of a break during World War II, the race has continued uninterrupted until the present day. The APBA supports a full annual calendar of powerboat races and other events across the United States. For more information, visit the American Power Boat Association website.

Offshore power boat racing is popular throughout the world.  What other sport offers large, dangerous and powerful racing machines on the open seas?  Depending on the class, speeds attained by offshore powerboats during races vary from 65 mph (105 km/h) to 190 mph (310 km/h).  Check out this YouTube video of offshore racing in Sweden: