If you’re thinking about investing in a cruising catamaran, these are some of the features to consider:
Seaworthiness. This means how well the vessel handles on the open sea and includes features like design and construction. Look for a cruising cat designed by a capable naval architect with multihull experience and constructed by a reputable yard.
Size. Bigger is not always better. Instead of buying the biggest catamaran you can afford, take into account who will be piloting it (including in case of emergency) and what their capabilities are. For example, if you become incapacitated your wife may have to pilot to shore alone.
Avoid custom cats. A production boat from a proven builder will be easier to sail and maintain, especially if you’re not an experienced multihull sailor.
Read more tips about feature of a cruising cat in this article by Aeroyacht company founder Gregor Tarjan.
Sunreef yachts are well-designed, luxurious composite vessels that combine modern designs with state-of-the-art electronics. The Sunreef 70’ power catamaran features a room interior, elegant topside and deluxe amenities. Sunreef also offers an Expedition model which features wave-piercing bows and includes twin Volvo Penta 265 HP diesel engines for long-range cruising. Its range is approximately 7000 nautical miles when its 4227-capacity fuel tanks are full.
The first 70 Sunreef Power to be sold was the JAMBO, which was built for Laurent Bourgnon, the famous Swiss sailor and adventurer. He embarked with his family on a five-year around-the-world tour aboard the JAMBO.
KonaCats power catamarans are built from 100% composite materials. There is no wood, aluminum or steel is used in the construction of these catamarans. This makes them lighter and more resistant to rot and corrosion. They deliver performance and reliability and thanks to a “quick-build” system can be completed in 6 months or less. Noah Thompson, on the world’s top naval architects, is the designer responsible for KonaCats unique and innovative designs.
Jetsprint boat racing (also known as sprint boat racing) is one of the fastest and most exciting newer forms of boat racing. A crew of two race a small V8 powered jetboat through a series of channels in less than a metre or water, at times reaching speeds of up to 80 mph. The channels are usually about 12 to 15 wide, requiring the driver and navigator to negotiate the course carefully while aiming for maximum speed.
Jetsprinting originated in New Zealand in 1981, where races were held in natural “braided” rivers. Today, jetsprint courses are most often manmade. They typically change direction 25 to 30 times and are traversed in about 60 seconds.
Experience jetsprinting for yourself in this YouTube video (the race starts 45 seconds into the video):
You can learn more about U.S. Jetsprinting on the USSBA website.