Catamarans

[NewSailor]

Forgive me if this question has been asked previously, but here goes:

1.) Is there a part of the USA where there are more catamarans than other areas?

2.) Is there a year for used cats as a cut-off from which I should not consider older cats? Like, nothing before 1985?

3.) What are the builders of the entry level and less expensive cruising catamarans for two?

4.) Lastly, what is the price range that I may be able to get into a cat in the 30 to 36' range used?

Thanks!

[maxingout]

Catamarans vary significantly from model to model and manufacturer.

If you know exactly what you are looking for, it's easier to research specific models and find what compromises are made with each particular catamaran. Every catamaran is a compromise, and you have to pick your poison - the compromises that you are willing to make.

My highest priority was a strongly built catamaran that was suitable for a tradewind circumnavigtion. Other people will select a different vessel for shallow water sailing on enclosed bodies of water or coastal cruising.

It's really not such a mystery. Mostly it's common sense and getting on board lots of cats to see their construction and sailing characteristics.

Here is why I chose a Privilege 39 for my voyage.

SAILING OFFSHORE IN A PRIVILEGE 39 CATAMARAN AROUND THE WORLD.* CAPTAIN DAVE.

[Southern Star]

Dave has it exactly right - there really is no set shelf-life for catamarans in general and hence, no specific age that should be avoided. Decide what your (realistically) expected use will be and, after doing some tire-kicking to assess the market, set a budget for the boat/necessary upgrades.

Southern Florida seems to have the best supply of used cats, at least in North America. I would suggest that it would make a worthwhile trip, even if you are still not ready to actually take the plunge. You should be able to check out various models, of various ages, at various prices and get a better idea of the current market situation.

Thereafter you should be able to set a budget and narrow down you options; at that point you can start seeking some boat-specific advice on this site and from various owner's associations/sites.

Good luck in your quest!

Brad

[boatman61]

The cheapest cats you can buy are the Wharram range from 26ft up for two people... as long as you do not mind open bridgedecks and living in the hulls... great boats for the Tropics and the Tiki's sail really well.


James Wharram Designs - Wharrams for sale
This is a pricey Tiki 30.. there's cheaper boats out there...

This is a 48ft Ariki at 50KUS

[Sand crab]

What's your budget? BTW 30' to 36' is on the small side for a blue water boat. Just so you know.

[Sand crab]

Duh... I forgot to mention the Gemini. They built over a 1000 of them and are still in business in Annapolis. They've got centerboards so the windward performance is great. And you can buy an older used one for less than a $100,000. Only the Seawinds come close but there aren't many in the states. 33'6" long fits your criteria and people have taken them all over the world.