The M2 45 is a hydrofoil-planing catamaran that is capable of speeds in excess of 50 knots. The M2 45 combines speed, efficiency and modern style. Available in both Sport Cruiser and Sport Fishing models, twin diesel inboard motor options range from 250 hp to 440 hp. At about 12 knots, the boat will move onto the hydrofoil supports. The hydrofoil system is positioned between the semi-hulls and carries part of the boat’s load when under speed. This load-carrying feature is combined with the inherent stability of this planing catamaran makes the M2 45 an economical high speed power cat. Found out more about the M2 45 on the M2 Motor yachts website.

The new World Cat 320CC Center Console power cat made its debut at the Miami Boat Show in February. This power cat features a vacuum-infused hull and other features that reduce the overall weight of the boat while increasing structural stability. The World Cat 320CC provides a smoother and faster ride, perfect for family cruising, hardcore fishing and reef diving.

This YouTube video shows the final testing and sea trials of the World Cat 320CC Center Console.

The Piranha USV (Unmanned Surface Vehicle) is an unmanned remote-controlled vessel designed for military missions. The ultra-light 54-foot composite boat weights in at a mere 8000 lbs. It can carry up to 15,000 lbs of payload a distance of up to 2500 miles. This is triple the payload capability and 10 times the range of existing USVs. A prototype of the Piranha is currently under construction and is expected to begin sea trials soon.

The Miami International Boat Show will be held February 11-15, 2010 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Featuring more than 200 exhibitors from around the world, the Miami International Boat Show includes a large group of multi-hull powerboats and sailboats. Seminars on a wide range of interesting boat-related topics and fun activities for the entire family will be available. Vendors will also be exhibiting engines and marine accessories of all types. From personal watercraft to mega-yachts, the Miami International Boat Show has plenty to offer every boating enthusiast. A portion of the show known as Strictly Sail will be held nearby at the Sea Isle Marina and Yachting Center.

Find out more about the 2010 and 2011 Miami Beach International Boat Show on the event website.

The Pacific Offshore Power Boat Racing Association (POPRA) supports offshore racing off the coast of Southern California. This YouTube video show one of their most exciting events – racing along the coast in Huntington Beach. It’s been a couple of years since the POPRA has held a Huntington Beach event and it will be interesting to see when the next event will be scheduled.

Huntington Beach is famous for its miles of beaches and surf culture (it’s the original Surf City, U.S.A.). Power Boat Racing was a great addition to a full city calendar of surfing and skateboard contests, concerts, runs and other community events.

Seawind Catamarans is the largest manufacturer of sail and power catamarans in Australia, producing some of the most popular cruising cats in the world. Established in 1982, Seawind Catamarans builds over 25 boats a year. Seawind dealers are located throughout Australia as well as in New Zealand, Hong Kong, Thailand, Italy and in several locations on both coasts of the U.S.A.

The Venturer 38 is a Seawind cruising power catamaran, ideal for family cruising. Spacious living space includes high gloss timber accents and designer décor. Two different configurations are available for either long distance cruising or high speed sport cruising. Visit the Seawind website for more information.

Malcolm Tennant 72' Power Catamaran

Pedigree Cats Catamarans of Raymond, Washington, is a custom yacht builder specializing in multihulls, including power cats and sailing catamarans and trimarans. More than 30 catamaran models are available in sizes from 60’ to 150’. Pedigree Cats have been building custom yachts since 1975. Find out more at the Pedigree Cats website.

The calendar for the 2010 Powerboat P1 World Championship offshore racing series has been announced. Powerboat P1 is the premier offshore racing series, with teams from around the world racing at high speeds in supercharged power monohulls. Race events will begin in April in Croatia and finish in Sicily in September, with interim events including ports in Ukraine, Turkey, Portugal and Sweden.

For additional information, visit the Powerboat P1 official website.

 The Bitter End Yacht Club (BEYC) is an all-inclusive sailing resort on Island Gorda in the British Virgin Islands. This unique resort is located on the protected waters of the North Sound. Exploring by sailboat is the main activity of many visitors, but there are plenty of other things to do. Scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, kite-surfing, swimming, and hiking are available by day, with evenings filled with dining and dancing. The clear calm waters, friendly people of the Virgin Islands and deluxe accommodations make BEYC an unforgettable vacation destination.

The Moorings is one of the world’s top powerboat charter companies. One of the services offered by The Moorings is Moorings Power Yacht Charter. A fleet of 37ft and 47ft powercats provide a perfect option for families and friends to enjoy the excitement of a powercat vacation. The charter service is available in 6 exciting worldwide destinations, including the Virgin Islands, the Bahamas, Baja California, Thailand, the Seychelles and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. For more information, see the Moorings Power Yacht Charter website.