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.
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.
A life vest is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment you can buy for your boat. The U.S. Coast Guard requires all boats to carry a life vest for each passenger. Instead of just carrying the vests, we recommend that each passenger as well as the pilot of the boat wear a life vest at all times.
Another important piece of safety equipment is a kill switch lanyard, which is worn by the operator of the boat. If the operator falls overboard or loses his or her balance, the boat’s engine will automatically shut off.
See the graphic evidence of the power of speed and waves in this Video of a serious boating accident:
January through April are the prime months for boat shows. Whether you’re planning on purchasing a boat or just want to see what’s new in marine manufacturing, a boat show is the best place to view a variety of different boats and make contact with dealers and manufacturers. Many boat shows also offer classes, seminars, test rides and other special events. Even if you’re not in the market for a vessel, attending boat shows will put you in touch with the boating community.
There are some of the top upcoming boat shows in the U.S.:
