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Several South African boatbuilders have made forays into the U.S. powercat market in recent years, with varying degrees of success. The most promising current contender comes not from a former sailboat builder but from a new company created exclusively to produce power-driven catamarans.
Founded some four years ago, Africat Marine has delivered six of its 44-foot models to date and is in the process of ramping up production to handle an increasing flurry of interest. In addition to the existing customer base of powercat enthusiasts, this boat in particular seems poised to make serious inroads into the much larger markets for motoryachts and flybridge cruisers.
Yacht brokers would describe this as a "big 44," for both deck and living spaces are comparable to what one would expect from a monohull in the 60-foot range. The reality of this assertion is best realized by actually seeing the boat, which the public will be able to do beginning with the 2007 Annapolis powerboat show.
There and at subsequent shows, prospective buyers will have the opportunity to inspect the latest and most lavish Africat model to date. In addition to a new hard Bimini top and a host of upgraded amenities, this boat will feature twin 440-hp power plants, which will allow it to operate in the mid-20-knot range favored by motoryacht owners, but with far better fuel efficiency (reportedly 1 nmpg at 20 knots). And because it is not based on a planing hull design, the 44 also provides exemplary range and efficiency at more moderate speeds, along with excellent rough-water performance. 800-749-2243; africatmarine.com
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