Trawler Cats

[chrisbarrett]

What would you fellow mobo forumites consider to be the pros and cons of owning a power cat, something like a Lagoon power 43/44 or a fountaine pajot trawler cat, they have a new model called the Summerland 40 coming out next year.
My reason for wanting feedback from owners or those that have cruised them is that I am thinking of changing my very able Corvette 320 for something a little bigger with more accommodation for staying aboard longer, however I want to know what the sea keeping capabilities are of a Cat. I know there are lots of superb fly bridge tri cabin boats around 45ft but for me based in the Bristol channel being able to dry out in a harbour dramatically widens our cruising options, they also claim to deliver better fuel economy. Any Thoughts?

 

[Perry]

I have done a fair bit around Mallorca and the Costa Brava on a FP Maryland 37,
loads of space and very economical. The last trip when the Diesel cost €1.05 per litre the fuel cost worked out at about £1 per mile. Got caught out in a F7 once up by Roses and it was not pleasant in a beam sea.

 

[Mr Googler]

also done a fair bit with power cats.

Good points are space inside and out, confined space handling as the engines are so far apart (although can be trick to turn right on the spot without bow thrusters as hulls work against each other) and fuel consumption. The hulls are obviously narrower and present less resistance. They cut through waves rather than break through.

Sea keeping wise the important factor is forward bouyancy. They can spit aswell which is when air pressure forms between the hulls and as you come down of the wave it spits water straight out the front. Great for the kids! As stated beam sea is not much fun but straight in to it or with it is great. Short sharp stuff is great. You will fly by us monohullers banging about.

My only issue is being at rest. They tend to pivot rather than rock giving a strange sensation and often making SWMBO and jnr SWMBO moan alot. /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif I think you just get used to it like any boat movement.

Might have to watch drying out depending on drive system.

Best of luck with it all.

 

[SpottyDog5]

Great post saved me asking the same question.
I have been looking at The Lagoon 43, 2 for sale on the Hamble, huge aft cabin, lot of boat for the money.
Marina fees might be high and hard to get a berth?