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 Mares 38 High Performance Powercat is advertised as a great poker run boat.  This is one of the only high performance catamarans which features a full cabin with a double bed and an enclosed head.  The cockpit area is also large, with plenty of room for entertaining and sunbathing.  The 38 foot length of the Mares 38 makes it perfect for offshore cruising.  For more information, see the Mares Powercats website.