2024 Multipower Buyer's Guide

30 to 40 feet

This category of multipowers is the most active in terms of new models, thanks to the appearance of numerous new players, convinced that the multihull formula meets a growing demand. These new models are often characterized by their meticulous design. However, they also incorporate a wide variety of models - from the Open designed for shoal draft waters to the comfortable Cruiser that can accommodate you for weeks at a time on board, or even the catamaran designed just for big game fishing. The common theme: all these models are easy to handle thanks to their twin engines and their still modest size.

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Published 27/10/2023

By Mark Bernie, Julie Echelle, Dick Sawyer, Emmanuel van Deth and Kim Wellington

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Issue: SP21

Published: dec. / jan. 2024

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L925 SEMI DISPLACEMENT POWER CAT

Amateur or professional construction in plywood/epoxy

New Zealand-based naval architecture firm Dan Leech is offering a number of power multihulls from 25 to 60 feet (7.5 to 18 m) for amateur or professional construction. Among them, the L925 is the perfect choice for relaxed cruising for a couple. This model is built in ½” (12 mm) plywood - the panels can be digitally cut - with glass/epoxy reinforcements. Its limited beam will allow you access to a marina slip without any noticeable extra cost. On the other hand, the gain in habitability and stability is considerable compared to a single-hulled motorboat. This kind of construction is very accessible to an enlightened amateur (4,000 hours of work were counted for the first model) all the more so as having outboard motors for propulsion considerably simplifies the technical aspects. Despite its semi-displacement hulls, the L925 is capable of making more than 20 knots with two 90 hp engines.

Construction: Amateur or professional
Architect: Dan Leech Naval Architect
Length: 30’4” (9.25 m)
Waterline length: 24’9” (7.55 m)
Beam: 11’ (3.35 m)
Draft: 19” (0.48 m)
engines up Recommended engines: 2 x 90 HP outboards
Cruising speed: 17 knots
Max speed: 22 knots
Fuel: 79 US gal (300 l)

www.leechboats.com

ARROWCAT 320

Compact but luxurious

The ArrowCat 320 is a successful model - now in its third generation. The smallest of the ArrowCat range, it features a luxurious finish - rare in compact powercats - such as a wooden steering wheel, or modern, full instrumentation on a carbon-look dashboard. Inside, the manufacturer has paid particular attention to the owner’s cabin. The 320 is powered by two outboard motors. The limited beam of 10 feet (3.05 m) allows the boat to be transported by road in certain countries such as the United States. The manufacturer ArrowCat, based in Clearwater (Florida), also offers a 420, again equipped with outboards, and available in a Coupe or Flybridge version.

Builder: ArrowCat Power Catamarans
Length: 31’2” (9.50 m)
Beam: 10’ (3.05 m)
Draft: 18” (0.46 m)
Displacement: 9.900 lbs (4.5 t)
Fuel: 196 US gal (742 l)
Engines: 2 x 225 HP outboards

www.arrowcat.com

AQUILA 32 SPORT

As exciting as it is comfortable

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Following the remarkable success of its larger models, Aquila Boats started looking at the under-10-meter powercat market a few years ago, now adding this 32-foot boat with a sportier design. Offered with three outboard power options, the smallest of the Aquila boats reaches more than thirty knots, or even nearly forty with the twin 300 HP engines - the power we would recommend. The huge cockpit and the unique aft platform offer safety and comfort. The interior hasn’t been forgotten: it allows you to enjoy coastal cruising in good conditions with a headroom of 184 cm (6’) under the deck, a proper cabin and separate ...

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