Catamarans – Sport Fishing Mag https://www.sportfishingmag.com Sport Fishing is the leading saltwater fishing site for boat reviews, fishing gear, saltwater fishing tips, photos, videos, and so much more. Thu, 29 Feb 2024 21:36:31 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 https://www.sportfishingmag.com/uploads/2021/09/favicon-spf.png Catamarans – Sport Fishing Mag https://www.sportfishingmag.com 32 32 Invincible 33 Catamaran: 2024 Boat Buyers Guide https://www.sportfishingmag.com/boats/invincible-33-catamaran-2024-boat-buyers-guide/ Tue, 26 Dec 2023 14:31:04 +0000 https://www.sportfishingmag.com/?p=53525 The 33 Catamaran offers 360-degree walk-around fishability.

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Invincible 33 Catamaran on the ocean
A variety of fishing options are available, including up to 47 rod holders. Courtesy Invincible Boats

Since 2006, Invincible has carried serious sport fishermen in pursuit of trophy fish and tournament wins in boats boasting intuitive designs, solid construction and thrilling performance. 

Invincible is proud of its semicustom, owner-designed boats with innovative hull designs. These include the original Michael Peters-designed and patented Stepped-Vee Ventilated Tunnel (SVVT) single hull of its powerful tournament boats, and the partnered Morrelli & Melvin patented, hybrid, semi-asymmetrical hulls of its catamarans.

Invincible launched with the SVVT single hull in 2006, after its founder was unable to find a boat tough enough, fast enough and smooth-­riding enough to meet his demands as a serious angler and decided to build his own instead. Enlisting naval architect Peters’ design, he created a new standard in Invincible.

Invincible uses innovative and practical techniques such as vacuum-bagged infusion and diamond-patterned nonskid decks. It pays attention to console design and footrest angle, with hardtop frame sightlines providing better navigation. Invincibles have smooth hole shots and quick on-plane times.

When Invincible ­decided to get into the center-­console catamaran segment, it brought to market a cat superbly adept at high-speed turns, agile without need for trim tabs or tanked ballast. 

In single hull or cat, the company says, “No one builds a more athletic fishing machine.”

Invincible 33 Catamaran helm
Multiple screens are found at the helm. Courtesy Invincible Boats

Invincible 33 Catamaran

Five years after launching its Morrelli & Melvin-designed catamaran line, Invincible has created its smallest cat platform yet: the 33 Catamaran, with the performance, versatility and amenities of its bigger siblings in a powerful, agile and nimble new form. 

Like all the Invincible cats, the 33 features a single-level deck and 360-degree walk-around fishability, including the ability to gaff fish at the bow. Standard are bow and below-deck storage and a deluxe console—its dash adopted from the 36 Open Fisherman—with room for a full-size head. The 33 Catamaran also boasts a finished bilge and high-speed pickup for livewell sea chests.

Top options include a hardtop, a windshield and enclosures, a folding tower with a dual station, a crow’s nest for the hardtop, outriggers and kingfish rod holders. For the helm select a pair of Llebroc seats or back-to-back helm/mezzanine seats. Behind the latter is a tackle center with a built-in cooler beneath the seat base. A removable rear bench seat is another option.

A variety of fishing options are available, including up to 47 rod holders, undergunwale rod racks, transom and in-deck livewells with sea chests, and a rear-facing tackle station. Underwater LED lights are also available.

The boat anticipates fishing success with four insulated fish boxes, two flanking the cabin and another pair in the bow. The space within the console-front seat can also be used for fish or gear storage. 

Editor’s Tip 

You can never have too much deck space, especially if you engage in active fishing styles like casting to breaking fish. Big cat boats maximize onboard real estate with wide beams that ensure everyone can hook up without having to dance around each other. -Joe Albanese, Executive Editor Salt Water Sportsman

Performance Data

  • Test Power: Twin Yamaha 300 hp V-6
  • Test Props: Merc. Eco Enertia 19″
  • Test Load: 2 people, 80 gal. fuel, 30 gal. water
  • Test Speed: 44 mph at 4,500 rpm
  • Max Range: 536 mi.

Specifications

LOA:33’11”
Beam:10’3″
Fuel Capacity:400 gal.
Dry Weight With Power:14,000 lb.
Max HP:900
Certifications:NMMA
Powered By:Yamaha

Invincible Boats – Opa-Locka, Florida; 305-685-2704invincibleboats.com

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Caymas 30 CT: 2024 Boat Buyers Guide https://www.sportfishingmag.com/boats/caymas-30-ct-2024-boat-buyers-guide/ Tue, 26 Dec 2023 14:26:12 +0000 https://www.sportfishingmag.com/?p=53560 The 30 CT is an uncompromising fishing machine.

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Caymas 30 CT blasting through chop
The 30 CT is more than capable of handling big, rough seas. Courtesy Caymas

Marine-industry veteran and bass-boat pioneer Earl Bentz does not slow down. Since the inception of his newest company, Caymas Boats in 2019 (he had been founder and president of Stratos and Triton), the Company has launched four new models per year across their four boat lines, with each debut making waves within the segment.

Bentz set his sights on designing and building an uncompromising fiberglass saltwater-fishing boat for both inshore and offshore anglers, and entered the cat market in early 2023 with their 34 CT.

Caymas 30 CT locker
Multiple storage areas are distributed throughout the boat. Courtesy Caymas

Caymas 30 CT

Newest in the Caymas fleet, the 30 CT catamaran rides on Ride Dynamic Ventilated Stepped semi-asymmetric hulls, with aggressive bow flair that allows anglers to fish in comfort in challenging conditions.

The cat comes with two midship insulated compartments for fish or gear, totaling 1,040 quarts of insulated storage served by Whale Gulper Grouper macerator pumps. 

The transom houses a standard pressurized 70-­gallon livewell with an acrylic lid and high-speed pickup. Other storage areas are distributed throughout the boat. Automatic bilge pumps, six in all, are in hulls aft and midship. 

The leaning post has five rod holders, a custom tackle and tool system, and tackle and leader storage. In gunwales and the transom are a total of 11 Gemlux Bluewater rod holders.

The 30 CT features chaise-longue seating with six rod holders along and storage beneath it, and a flat deck that allows for unobstructed movement from stern to bow. The helm’s dash accommodates two 17-inch screens.

Options include Mercury joystick or Yamaha Helm Master controls, outrigger bases and poles, underwater lights, audio and electronics upgrades, custom helm-­seating upgrades, additional rod holders, electric-reel outlets, and an aft in-floor livewell. 

With a fuel capacity of 300 gallons and engine packages (featuring push-button start) up to 800 hp, it has both power and range. 

Editor’s Tip 

Fishing in big, rough seas can rattle loose hardware and other key components, unless fasteners are properly reinforced. That’s why Caymas goes the extra step by using aluminum backing plates glassed in for seats, cleats, rails, rod holders and tops. -Jim Hendricks, Staff Editor, Boating and Fishing Group

Specifications

LOA:30’6″
Beam:10’8″
Fuel Capacity:300 gal.
Dry Weight:10,275 lb.
Max HP:800
Certifications:NMMA
Powered By:Yamaha

Caymas Boats – Ashland City, Tennessee; caymasboats.com

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Aquila 47 Molokai: 2024 Boat Buyers Guide https://www.sportfishingmag.com/boats/aquila-47-molokai-2024-boat-buyers-guide/ Tue, 26 Dec 2023 14:12:32 +0000 https://www.sportfishingmag.com/?p=53575 The 47 Molokai is ready to take on any seas.

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Aquila 47 Molokai cruising smoothly
The 47 Molokai offers both speed and range. Courtesy Aquila

Recognized globally, Aquila Power Catamarans are crafted in what the company calls “one of the world’s largest, newest, most vertically integrated and ‘greenest’ yacht production facilities.” 

Sino Eagle Yachts, Aquila’s parent company, has more than 40 years of manufacturing experience, featuring advanced composites and new vacuum-molding techniques. In 2012, the firm worked with award-winning designers to launch Aquila Power Catamarans.  “Aquila” is derived from the Latin for “eagle,” a fitting name for a boat with such power, grace, and majesty. 

Aquila’s growing lineup of boats from 28 to 70 feet caters to the desires of both the leisurely adventurer and thrill-seeking explorer—and anglers in either category.

Their yachts feature wide beams and high bridge decks, the latter to minimize below-­deck slapping in choppy water conditions. Outboard engines are positioned well apart for agile, precise driving. The result is performance and comfort in elegant packages.

Aquila 47 Molokai cockpit
In-deck and coffin-box fish and gear storage­—and transom livewell capacity—is generous. Courtesy Aquila

Aquila 47 Molokai

A rock-solid offshore-fishing center-console ­catamaran with plenty of power and fuel capacity, and ­construction ready to take on any seas, ­Aquila’s new 47 Molokai also offers all the ­comforts a ­family might request, from cozy sleeping ­accommodations to posh entertainment ­appointments.  

Performance and durability are thanks to reduced-drag twin-stepped hulls, and lightweight but strong carbon/epoxy construction.

The dual-entry cabin ­features a head, shower, air conditioning, ­queen-size island berth, and large overhead and side windows. Outside is seating for up to 17, including seven protected helm seats.

Fishing-ready, the 47 ­Molokai has 16 gunwale-­mounted and six transom-­mounted rod holders. In-deck and coffin-box fish and gear storage­—and transom livewell capacity—is generous. Among options are tuna tubes and in-deck livewells. 

The 47 Molokai offers both speed and range: It is thriftiest with its standard package of two 600’s at 4,000 rpm and 34.5 mph, with an 870-mile range. But bumping it to 5,000 rpm produces 46 mph and shortens the range by only 10 miles. Additional package options are available. 

Editor’s Tip 

The high-strength hullside windows on the 47 Molokai serve as an Aquila styling trademark, but they also serve a practical purpose when fishing, allowing the captain to see hooked fish in the water when they are close to the boat without leaving the helm controls. -Jim Hendricks, Staff Editor, Boating and Fishing Group

Performance Data

  • Test Power: Quad Mercury V10 400’s
  • Test Props: 25P RevX
  • Test Load: 26,300 lbs.
  • Test Speed: 67 mph
  • Max Range: 754 mi. (4500rpm, 48mph)

Specifications

LOA:49’4″
Beam:14’7″
Fuel Capacity:1,048 gal.
Dry Weight With Power:22,818 lb.
Max HP:2,000

Aquila Power Catamarans – Saint Petersburg, Florida; aquilaboats.com

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2023 Caymas 34 CT https://www.sportfishingmag.com/sponsored-post/2023-caymas-34-ct/ Fri, 23 Jun 2023 17:57:00 +0000 https://www.sportfishingmag.com/?p=52537 The Caymas 34 CT offers a wealth of fishing features and impressive handling.

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With its dual-stepped, semi-asymmetric hulls, the 34 CT is a new-school cat that shows up and shows out. Powered by twin Mercury V-10 400 hp outboards, this boat delivers impressive acceleration and effortlessly handles challenging conditions. At 4,000 rpm and 36.7 mph, it achieved 1.2 mpg in our test. That efficiency equates to a cruising range of more than 400 miles, even with 10 percent of its 436-gallon fuel capacity left in reserve.

When it comes to fishing, the Caymas 34 CT offers a range of features. The spacious and stable deck provides a secure footing. With our toes tucked in the deck gutters and our thighs pressing the thick gunwale bolsters, we could focus on handling the rod or gaff, not staying on our feet. There are three livewells, six fish boxes (three per side) with macerator pumps and plenty of rod holders (six in each gunwale, five shotguns, nine tuna-stick hangers under the gunwales, and nine more shared between the hardtop and leaning post).

Fishing-wise, it’s apparent Caymas put the right people on the design team. But the designers and upholsterers get their kudos on the comfort side as well. A pullout transom seat and dual forward pullout lounges offer comfortable seating to complement the dual chaise-style ­lounges on the console’s front side. Under those posh cushions is a ton of storage or another fish box, as you choose. Every deck compartment is insulated for multi-use.

For more information on the Caymas 34 CT, visit caymasboats.com or check out our full review on saltwatersportsman.com.

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2023 Boat Buyers Guide: Catamarans https://www.sportfishingmag.com/boats/boat-buyers-guide-catamarans/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 17:56:29 +0000 https://www.sportfishingmag.com/?p=51542 Cats offer speed, stability, fishability, and a smooth ride in rough seas.

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Catamaran spinning circles
With engines set wide on each sponson, a catamaran provides exceptional maneuverability, whether fighting a fish or docking in tight quarters. Courtesy Invincible

The popularity of the multihull (aka catamaran or cat) fishing boats has never been greater, as more and more boatbuilders enter this growing segment of the market. The inherent stability of the catamaran design rolls less with the seas, making fishing offshore less tiresome and more comfortable. Available from 20 to 48 feet, catamarans typically offer a large fishing platform with generous storage and fishing amenities. They are available in a wide variety of deck layouts, including center-consoles, dual-consoles, and even pilothouse and express variants.

Catamaran foredeck
Cats offer abundant deck space. Courtesy Invincible

Big Picture

The large deck area of a catamaran enables many large underdeck storage lockers and insulated fish boxes in the sponsons. This gives anglers ample room for gear and the day’s catch. The catamaran’s stability, fishability, and smooth ride in rough seas make it attractive to anglers as well as day-cruisers. A center-console version adds 360 degrees of angler access to the rail. With the dual-console design, generous seating behind a beam-to-beam windshield makes for a great family fishing-friendly setup.

Livewells

Live bait is one of the most popular types of fishing in virtually every coastal zone. To do it successfully requires optimal water capacity and proper flow. The minimum size of the outflow water plumbing should be twice the size of the inflow. The plumbing should have a drain at the bottom to shed scales at the end of the day, as well as a drain at the top of the well to adjust capacity and allow overflow. Above-deck transom-mounted wells should fully flood to the lids when running to keep baits from getting beat up. 

Tip: A sump box with multiple pumps in case a pump fails is the best setup for first-rate livewells. Conveniently located inflow and outflow valves make it easy to optimize the flow without tiring your bait from swimming too much in the well. 

Catamaran helm
Vertical rod storage along the console. Courtesy Invincible

Rod Storage

Having enough rod holders is essential to be successful for opportunity fishing. Look for vertical rod storage along the console and across the back of the T-top. Many models also have rod holders along the outboard transom wall. Having plenty of gunwale rod holders for drift- and kite-fishing is helpful. 

Tip: Placing adjustable swivel rod holders by Gemlux makes deep-dropping, lure-fishing and drifting even easier because they allow your rods to face the direction the baits are fishing, yet they can be swiveled back to keep rods from sticking out of the boat while running and docking. 

Horsepower

Manufacturers often offer multiple choices for horsepower, but whatever the choice, the engines must come in pairs. For example, you might order twin outboards (one for each sponson) or four outboards (two for each sponson), but single- or triple-outboard configurations are not common on a cat. Optimal selection should be made based on user load, weight of the boat, ride comfort , performance desires, and best case for resale. It’s a rare day when you can run wide open, but having more horsepower gives better torque at slower speeds and thus better control. Running larger engines slower gives better fuel efficiency too.

Tip: When possible, choose the highest horsepower offered because it typically leads to a better resale value with a shorter sales cycle. 

Rigging

Power steering from engine manufacturer Optimus or SeaStar is essential with the higher horsepower required for larger boats, and it makes installing and operating the upper station in a tower far more practical and comfortable.

Voltage

With the power demands of electronics, livewell pumps, stereo amps and more, it is wise to have at least two house batteries, and for larger boats, a third or fourth with a multibank charger for dockside. Each engine should have its own dedicated battery as well. 

Electronics

Typically choosing the largest screen or multiple screens that will fit on the console is best-case scenario for ease of use, ergonomics, and visibility. VHF radios, stereo controller, and equipment switches for lighting, pumps, and accessories should all be integrated with greatest visibility and ease of operator reach. 

Catamaran illustration
The narrow sponsons of the cat tend to slice easily through water to deliver a smooth ride, even in rough seas. Steve Sanford

A Tale of Two Hulls 

A catamaran rides on pair of hulls, or sponsons, each thinner and sharper than  that of a similarly sized monohull boat. The narrow sponsons of the cat tend to slice easily through water to deliver a smooth ride, even in rough seas. At the same time, with the sponsons positioned out to the sides of the boat, cats tend to roll less, thus providing great stability to enhance crew comfort, security and safety. However, cats tend to corner more flatly than a monohull, and some hulls (but not all) tend to lean outward versus inward during a turn.

Catamaran running
Cats also deliver outstanding performance and range. Courtesy Invincible

Experts Say

Newer designs such as Invincible’s Morelli and Melvin-designed semi-asymmetrical sponsons eliminate some of the negatives of the cat design, such as “sneezing,” where water sprays out the front of the boat when hitting a wave. They’ve also controlled the uncomfortable “outboard lean” ­sensation common in older designs when in a turn. Once transitioned to a ­catamaran, many become true believers and preach the benefits of the design.

Editor Says: Saltwater fishing cats not only offer superb stability and smooth ride, but some also display exceptional speed and range. I recall one trip out of Key West, Florida, aboard an Invincible 40 Cat with four 350 hp outboards to the Dry Tortugas. It was a 60-mile run, and we made it there in 70 minutes. We caught more fish than our arms could bear, and then dashed back to Key West, arriving in time for cocktail hour on the same day. -Jim Hendricks, Staff Editor, Boating and Fishing Group

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World Cat 260CC-X First Glance https://www.sportfishingmag.com/boat-reviews/world-cat-260-cc-x-first-glance/ Mon, 06 Jun 2022 15:10:25 +0000 https://www.sportfishingmag.com/?p=50695 World Cat delivers a new mid-size center console multihull that hits the sweet spot for ride and fishability.

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World Cat 260CC-X inshore
LOA: 25 ft.6 in.; Beam: 9 ft.; Weight: 6,750 lb. (w/ power); Draft: 1 ft. 2 in.; Fuel Capacity: 180 gal.; Max HP: 400 hp Courtesy World Cat

When it comes to multihull fishing boats, the 40-foot-plus models seem to dominate new-boat introductions these days. Yet at least one multihull builder—World Cat—continues to deliver mid-size models. The latest example is the new 260CC-X, a 25½-footer that combines serious angling features with amenities that allow this center console to double as a comfortable family day cruiser.

This smooth-riding cat can handle up to 400 hp in the form of twin Yamaha F200 or Mercury 200 FourStroke outboards. Twin Yamaha F150s are also available as an engine package. A pair of 90-gallon fuel tanks keep the motors well fed while cruising to the offshore grounds. A covered 30-gallon livewell resides in the starboard quarter, and in the port quarter, you’ll find a 30-gallon insulated fishbox. Fresh- and raw-water washdown systems help keep this cat clean.

World Cat 260CC-X helm
A stitched brow over the dash of the 260CC-X helps reduces glare and adds a luxurious touch to the helm area. Courtesy World Cat

A wraparound glass windshield with a manual front vent is integrated into the aluminum hardtop frame to protect the helm, which features a Garmin 12-inch multifunction display, Garmin VHF, and Fusion Apollo 670 stereo feeding six JL Audio 6 ½-inch speakers through the interior—all as standard equipment. A second 12-inch Garmin MFD and other electronic upgrades are available as options.

A stitched brow over the dash helps reduces glare. Standard helm seating comes in the form of a powder-coated aluminum leaning post with four rod holders in the backrest and a Yeti Tundra 65 slide-out cooler beneath. Standard equipment includes a 31-series deep-cycle battery to serve house 12-volt DC electrical needs, while a pair of 27-series cranking batteries provide redundant engine-cranking capabilities.

Hydraulic steering also comes standard, but World Cat offers an optional Dometic Optimus 360 power steering/joystick system for the Yamaha outboards or Mercury’s DTS engine package with the Merc FourStroke engines. 

Read Next: World Cat 280CC-X Review

World Cat 260CC-X bow seating
The new World Cat 260CC-X features wraparound lounge seating (optional removable backrests) in the bow. Remove the seating pads to this area to create a casting platform. Courtesy World Cat

One of the most unique elements is a 50-inch-wide transom bench seat that folds down electrically to create a slightly elevated aft casting deck. The deck extends aft between the twin outboards, which enables anglers to work a fish around the transom. The platform includes a hand railing for safety and a fold-down boarding ladder for those days when swimming and diving are on the agenda.

A standard wraparound lounge (optional removable backrests) in the bow converts to a forward casting platform. Abundant dry storage resides under the elevated seating pods. The forward console features seating, and behind it is a door providing access inside the console. An electric marine head with an 8-gallon holding tank and overboard discharge is optional.

Specifications

LOA:25 ft. 6 in.
Beam:9 ft.
Weight:6,750 lb. (w/ engines)
Draft:1 ft. 2 in.
Fuel Capacity:180 gal.
Max HP:400 hp

World Cat – Tarboro, North Carolina; 866-485-8899

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World Cat 400CC-X Boat Review https://www.sportfishingmag.com/boat-reviews/world-cat-400cc-x-boat-review/ Fri, 11 Mar 2022 18:31:09 +0000 https://www.sportfishingmag.com/?p=50386 Full-featured fish boat on a proven catamaran hull.

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World Cat 400CC-X running near shore
The World Cat 400CC-X can pair with twin Yamaha 425 XTOs, as pictured, or with quad F300s, as we tested it. Courtesy World Cat

I had previously tested the World Cat 400DC-X, a dual-console catamaran made for family fishing and fun. So when I saw the new 400CC-X cat last month in South Florida, I was amazed at how modifying the deck to accommodate a center-console design also created a fishing war wagon.

From the foredeck with its own lockable rod stowage to the 60-gallon aquarium-style livewell and the cooler with Dometic chiller plate in the transom, anglers will appreciate the 400CC-X. The cockpit features more than 200 square feet of space, and the side passageways with padded coamings are wide enough at 30 inches to chase fish forward. The standard hardtop comes loaded with rod holders and is designed to minimize overhead obstructions. 

World Cat 400CC-X cockpit
The wide-open cockpit gives anglers more than 200 square feet of fish-fighting space. Courtesy World Cat

With all that deck space, World Cat included multiple cavernous fish boxes. A pair of 115-gallon insulated boxes lie aft (with overboard Gulper Grouper pumps), another pair of 154-gallon insulated boxes that can be optioned as livewells lie forward.

I found ample coolers, too, including a 70-quart cooler under the cockpit bench seat and a 68-quart cooler forward. The portside tuna door opens inward for dock use, and a bait rigging station folds down from behind the helm seat.

World Cat 400CC-X rod storage
The full beam of this cat allows for lockable rod storage in the foredeck. Courtesy World Cat

The forward-entry console door when opened doesn’t block the skipper’s view, and the fully-lined head inside features a sink and freshwater electric toilet. At the helm, I found vented windows in the tempered-glass windshield, footrests at two levels, and a pair of Garmin 22-inch displays, which are protected by a reflection-blocking eyebrow.

World Cat lists twin Yamaha XTO 425s as standard power, but our test boat ran with quad F300s which, with the hammer down, gave me a top speed just shy of 60 mph. I found a cruising speed of 27 mph at 3,000 rpm, where the outboards consumed just 24 gph for 1.125 mpg and a range of more than 600 miles (with a 10 percent margin).

No question: The World Cat 400CC-X checks all the boxes for dedicated anglers.

Read Next: World Cat 400DC-X Boat Review

World Cat 400CC-X bow seating
Forward, the twin loungers, with storage beneath, move on tracks to join amidships forming a sunpad. Note the multiple rod holders flanking the sides of the loungers. When the backrests are removed, the sockets become additional rod holders. Courtesy World Cat

Hull Specs

LOA:39 ft. 8 in.
Beam:12 ft. 8 in.
Transom Deadrise:N/A (catamaran)
Draft:1 ft. 9 in.
Dry Weight:14,500 lb.
Fuel:Fuel: 604 gal.
Max HP:1,200 hp
Base Price:N/A
World Cat 400CC-X helm
The helm on our test boat featured three-across seating (sleigh seating option available), a tempered-glass windshield, footrests at two levels, and a pair of Garmin 22-inch displays protected by a reflection-blocking eyebrow. Courtesy World Cat

Performance

  • Engines: Quad Yamaha F300s
  • Load: 800 lb.
  • Time to 30 mph: 6.7 sec.
  • Top Speed: 57.4 mph @ 5,900 rpm
  • Best MPG: 1.125 mpg @ 27.5mph

World Cat – Tarboro, NC; 866-485-8899

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Aquila 28 Molokai Power Catamaran Boat Review https://www.sportfishingmag.com/boat-reviews/aquila-28-molokai-catamaran-boat-review/ Sat, 29 Jan 2022 17:13:06 +0000 https://www.sportfishingmag.com/?p=50212 This new multihull is fish-focused and fast.

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Aquila 28 Molokai Fishing
LOA: 30 ft. 9 in.; Beam: 9 ft. 8 1/2 in.;Transom Deadrise: N/A (catamaran); Draft: 1 ft. 1 in.; Dry Weight: 6,166 lb. (w/ engines); Fuel: 150 gal.; Max HP: 400 hp; Base Price: $265,000 Courtesy Aquila Boats

The Aquila 28 Molokai Power Catamaran is an agile and fast wave-slicing fishing platform that’s stable whether you’re trolling, drifting over a reef or sitting on the hook bottom fishing over a wreck. The vessel’s 9-foot-8-inch beam carries from bow to stern and aids in the vessel’s stable-as-a-table nature. The 28 Molokai’s hull design is based on a form from Hawaiian Cat designer Kirk Clark.

The powercat’s notable fishing features include two 94-gallon insulated fish boxes, a 30-gallon livewell, 15 rod holders, and Taco outriggers. There’s also a removable cutting board, a sink, pullout tackle boxes in a console on centerline and under-gunwale rod stowage. For live-bait fans, the bow’s cast-net space measures about 4 feet wide with unimpeded room to throw.

Aquila 28 Molokai Livewell and Tackle Center
The 28-footer comes with a 30-gallon livewell and a tackle station. Courtesy Aquila Boats

Powered with a pair of 200 hp Mercury outboards (twin 150s are standard), my test boat jumped on plane quickly, motors spooling up with dog-sees-squirrel urgency. I saw an average top hop of 46.5 mph at 5,500 rpm on a choppy winter day off Pompano Beach, Florida, with Aquila brand manager Alain Raas.

The 28 Molokai’s hull tunnel is wide and deep, creating a pocket of pillowlike air that provides a sense of liftoff. Shooting across an aquamarine sea, it felt more akin to flying over the water than riding atop it.

Aquila 28 Molokai Running
Molokai’s tunnel is wide and deep, which gives it a sense of liftoff. Courtesy Aquila Boats

Dialing the controls back to 4,000 rpm made for a comfortable 33 mph cruise speed. At this velocity, the engines consume 16.9 gph, or 1.95 mpg. Considering the boat’s 150-gallon fuel capacity (keeping a 10 percent reserve), the projected range is 263 miles. Bring the speed down to 23.5 mph, where fuel burn drops to 9.4 gph (2.5 mpg), and the range jumps to 337 miles.

Aquila 28 Molokai Aft Seating
Aft cockpit seats fold out for the ride to the fishing grounds and button up out of the way to fish. Courtesy Aquila Boats

The 28 Molokai’s layout includes forward-facing foldout seats in the aft cockpit that measure 22 inches wide and 17 inches deep. The coaming lifts up, the seats fold out and down, and then the coaming forms a backrest. The helm bench accommodates a skipper and companion. The forward section of the helm console features a built-in bench seat for two. A head is inside the console and is accessed abaft the seat.

The 28 comes with another bench at the bow, and abaft it to port and starboard lie two more lounges with removable backrests. All the cushions can be removed when it’s a fish day.

Boaters who want more protection from the elements can choose the 28 Molokai with a cuddy-cabin layout. Sprinting offshore to chase billfish or sitting on the hook to catch dinner, the Aquila Molokai 28 is a solid blend of form and function.

Aquila 28 Molokai Helm
The Molokai’s full-featured helm. Courtesy Aquila Boats

Hull Specifications

LOA:30 ft. 9 in.
Beam:9 ft. 8 1/2 in.
Transom Deadrise:N/A (catamaran)
Draft:1 ft. 1 in.
Dry Weight:6,166 lb. (w/ engines)
Fuel:150 gal.
Max HP:400 hp
Base Price:$265,000

Performance

  • Engines: Twin Mercury 200s
  • Load: Two crew, 75 gal. fuel, water
  • Time to 30 mph: N/A
  • Top Speed: 46.5 mph @ 5,500 rpm
  • Best MPG: 1.95 mpg @ 23.5 mph (4,000 rpm)

Contact

Aquila Boats – Sold exclusively through MarineMax.

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Jaguar Offshore 37 First Glance https://www.sportfishingmag.com/story/boat-reviews/jaguar-offshore-37-first-glance/ Tue, 19 Oct 2021 17:49:20 +0000 https://www.sportfishingmag.com/?p=48896 Jaguar Powerboats debuts a racy new 37-foot center-console cat.

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Jaguar Offshore 37 on the water
LOA: 37 ft.; Beam: 10 ft. 10 in..; Weight: 8,000 lb. (w/ twin Merc 300Rs); Draft: 1 ft. 4 in..; Transom Deadrise: NA; Fuel Capacity: 430 gal.; Max HP: 1,300 hp Courtesy Jaguar Powerboats

Jaguar Powerboats’ new Offshore 37 marries the company’s racing heritage with a layout that’s designed and dedicated to blue-water fishing. The 37 uses an aerodynamic- and hydrodynamic-stabilized forced-air tunnel as well as lifting strakes to deliver peak performance. The proprietary unibody construction of the fully integrated monocoque structure carries a lifetime warranty. It weighs in at 8,000 pounds fully equipped, and Jaguar expects this cat to top 75 mph with twin Mercury 300R outboards and exceed 90 mph with dual Mercury 450 outboards. Distinctive styling and a sweeping sheerline lend a sleek and swift appearance to this center console, even when at rest.

Jaguar Offshore 37 on a mountain lake
Distinctive styling of the Jaguar Offshore 37 lends this blue-water cat a swift appearance, even when sitting still. Courtesy Jaguar Powerboats

North Carolina-based Jaguar expects strong fuel economy. With Mercury 300Rs, the boat should achieve a maximum 1.5 mpg, which translates to a 607-mile maximum range based on the 430-gallon fuel tank, with 10 percent left in reserve. With a 1-foot 4-inch draft and jack plates, this cat can get into fairly shallow water when it’s necessary, for example, to net live bait. The 37 is available with a special optional hardtop that includes an elevated rear-facing observation seat with a sunshade for easily keeping tabs on the trolling spread.

Read Next: Multihull, Catamaran Boats Invade the Offshore-Fishing Market

Jaguar 37 Offshore rendring
A lounge on the forward console of the Jaguar 37 Offshore doubles as an insulated coffin box. It can also be configured as a 50-gallon livewell. Courtesy Jaguar Powerboats

The helm features seating for three. Abaft the helm seating is an integrated tackle station and rear-facing cooler seat. Dual 175-gallon insulated in-sole fish boxes feature high-capacity diaphragm pump-outs, as does the enormous, fully insulated double coffin box that can be reconfigured as an additional 50-gallon livewell. Standard twin 50-gallon livewells reside in the transom. The Jaguar Offshore 37 is scheduled to appear at the 2021 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (Oct. 27–31) with the price ranging from $385,000 to $600,000, depending on options.

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World Cat 400CC-X First Glance https://www.sportfishingmag.com/story/boat-reviews/world-cat-400cc-x-first-glance/ Tue, 28 Sep 2021 00:12:46 +0000 https://www.sportfishingmag.com/?p=48899 World Cat introduces its biggest center console catamaran to date—a near-40-footer.

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World Cat 400CC-X cruising to the fishing grounds
LOA: 39 ft.8 in.; Beam: 12 ft. 8 in..; Weight: 14,500 lb.; Draft: 1 ft. 9 in.; Transom Deadrise: N/A (catamaran); Fuel Capacity: 604 gal.; Max HP: 1,200 hp Courtesy World Cat

Big, powerful catamaran-style boats seem to taking over the offshore fishing world, and the latest example is the new World Cat 400CC-X.

The 400CC-X represents World Cat’s biggest center console and serves as the sister flagship to the company’s 400DC-X dual console boat. Designed to serve as an effective and stable offshore fishing machine, the highly customizable 400CC-X also offers comfortable appointments for cruising fun with family and friends.

World Cat 400CC-X with lighting on
The World Cat 400CC-X offers abundant available seating, as well as 200 square feet of level deck space for fishing action. Courtesy World Cat

The layout of this cat allows for a wide stance that carries well forward to help create 200 square feet of deck space to accommodate a big crew of anglers and offer plenty of elbow room to fish.

There’s also comfortable seating, starting with a helm bench for three, plus a rear-facing bench with a 70-quart insulated cooler underneath. Options include triple helm chairs with arm rests and an electric-adjustable center seat or a second row of triple helm seats. Optional “Cat Track” seating in the bow area consists of configurable 68-quart cooler seats that slide and lock outward to create U-shaped seating or slide in to the center to form a coffin-box seating arrangement.

Check out this video of new World Cat 400CC-X in action. Courtesy World Cat

Livewell choices include a 30-gallon transom well complemented by a cooler with a chiller plate on the opposite side of the walk-through transom. In addition, you can opt for 60 gallons of aquarium-style transom livewell capacity or a 200-quart insulated transom fish box.

The new World Cat features a center console with a forward-entry hinged door for access to the enclosed head compartment, which boasts a full fiberglass liner, starboard side acrylic portlight, vanity with a freshwater sink and Corian countertop, as well as an electric flushing marine toilet.

World Cat 400CC-X helm
The World Cat 400CC-X features an integral hardtop, roomy console panel and three-sided tempered glass windshield. Courtesy World Cat

Back topside, the forward console features more seating with fold-down armrests. There are also insulated fish boxes under the forward deck—offering a combined capacity of 154 gallons—with overboard Gulper diaphragm pumps. The 400CC-X also features 115 gallons of fishbox capacity below the deck of the aft cockpit.

Read Next: Multihull, Catamaran Boats Invade the Offshore-Fishing Market

An integral hardtop and three-side tempered-glass windshield protect the helm area and the dash, which is spacious enough for an optional pair of Garmin 22-inch multifunction displays. The windshield includes a motorized vent to usher in fresh air.

World Cat 400CC-X running in a turn
With a hull designed to bank inward during high-speed turns, the World Cat 400CC-X can achieve speeds in the upper 50-mph range when powered by quad Yamaha F300 outboards. Courtesy World Cat

Available power includes twin Yamaha 425 XTO outboards or quad Yamaha F300 outboard engines. With quad Yamaha F300s, the 400CC-X accelerates from 0 to 20 mph in 4.79 seconds and achieves a top speed of 57.4 mph at 5,900 rpm, according to tests conducted by Yamaha.

The big cat achieved optimum fuel efficiency at 3,000 rpm and 27.5 mph, where the four 300 hp outboards burned 24.4 gallons per hour for 1.13 mpg. That equates to a range of 614 miles, based on 90 percent capacity of the 604-gallon fuel capacity.

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