Proteus is an altogether new kind of power catamaran. This “Wave Adaptive Modular Vessel” was designed by California Bay Area engineer Ugo Conti, who had spent months sailing around the world with his wife and son but never got over his seasickness. This insect-inspired water craft has twin inflatable pontoons that absorb the motion of the waves and provide a smooth ride for passengers in a cabin that is perched high above the water. It has been dubbed the “Spider Ship” because of the appearance of its support structure.

See stunning footage of Proteus on the water in this short documentary on YouTube. You can also read more about the science behind this adaptive vessel in this Wikipedia article.

If you’re looking for a high-speed powercat with a lower price tag than, maybe it’s time to consider an inflatable. An inflatable catamaran is a versatile boat for fishing, white water rafting or just cruising. When not in use, it can be deflated and easily stored.

The Dux HammerHead Model PD-400 was originally created for the American Power Boat Association racing circuit. It provides precision turning and speed control and extreme rough water handling capabilities and comes with a 10-year warranty. At 13’6”, it’s roomy enough to seat 6 people.

Find out more about the HammerHead on the Dux website.

Founded by Doyle Heckaman in 1989, Splendor Boats are known for their revolutionary design which features a catamaran hull that requires only one engine. Splendor is a custom builder; it’s most popular model is the SunStar 240, a seaworthy deckboat that offers more standard horsepower and a sink and cooler storage area. It’s fitted with stainless steel handrails, drains, faucets and lighting fixtures.

Read a full review of the SunStar 240 on NewBoats.com. Visit the Splendor Boats website to learn more about the company, which is now owned and operated by the 3rd generation of Heckamans. The Splendor Boats Showroom is located in Silver Lake, Indiana.

One of the stars of the 2011 Miami Yacht and Brokerage Show was the Ferretti 750, a yacht born of the collaboration between the Advanced Yacht Technology of the Feretti Group and Studio Zuccon. The Ferretti Group is currently the world leader in the design and construction of luxury motor-yachts, producing models that range in length from 27’ to 278’.

The Ferretti 750, along with 800 and 620 models, features elegance and innovation and classical-contemporary style. Another notable debut from the Ferretti Group is the Aquariva Gucci (pictured above), an exclusive custom-built yacht with amenities designed by Gucci’s Creative Director Frida Giannini. Find out more about Ferretti yachts on the official Ferritti website.