Few players on the open outboard catamaran market
On the French market, few shipyards have specialized in the pure motor catamaran market, the motorized models being derived from sailing models. The latter are moreover motorized with inboard engines. However, some American and English builders have made sport catamarans with a bowrider layout and outboard engines their trademark, such as Aquila Catamarans or Invincible Boats.
The Four Winns shipyard, as part of the Bénéteau Group's strategy to revamp its brands, has chosen to enter the sector by launching a range of open engine models on two hulls. The first model, the TH36, is a Lombard design for naval architecture and hull design with a stepped hull. It owes its design to Garroni Design, interior designer used by the Bénéteau group. A second, smaller model is planned.
A typically American design
Although it is a prototype and some elements remain to be finalized, the presentation of the TH36 allowed us to discover the concept. It is an open catamaran, 11.72 m long and 4.50 m wide, with a large deck area and the typical layout of American boats, whether monohull or multihull. Two side brackets at the stern house the outboard engines, each with 300 or 350 horsepower. In the center, the long platform serves as access to the boat, equipped with handrails. It also allows the deployment of the large swim ladder.
A cockpit with adjustable seats
The very large cockpit is equipped with two L-shaped benches on sliding rails, which can be joined in the middle to form a large U-shaped bench near the galley. Two removable tables are installed on each bench. A cupboard door on the starboard side makes it easy to launch or fish. Under the hard-top, a large armchair faces the sea on the starboard side, preceding the galley divided into two lateral blocks. The starboard unit houses the refrigerator, while the port unit contains storage, a sink and a cooktop.
Open or closed cockpit and bowrider to share
The steering console on the starboard side has a large instrument panel, which can accommodate up to two 16" screens. The pilot's seat is located near the throttle and joystick, allowing for both seated and standing operation. On the other side is the large co-pilot seat. A large windscreen with a central opening protects the cockpit and the pilot from wind and sea spray when sailing. An imposing structural hard-top protects the cockpit. It can be equipped with a tarpaulin to completely enclose the space and thus benefit from heating or air conditioning. For safety when anchoring and maneuvering in port, the TH36 has walkways that also provide access to the bowrider on the bow. The forward cockpit offers two large C-shaped seating areas on each side with tables, and can be outfitted with a shade cloth. A bow ladder can also be installed.
Two beautiful double cabins with bathroom
Each hull houses a double cabin with its own private bathroom, equipped with a separate shower and a sink. The headroom is really important, but the outside light is a bit reduced.
A model designed for the American market
Designed for the American market, which is fond of these open catamarans with outboard engines, the TH36 could seduce the French market, especially in the Mediterranean, thanks to its very large outdoor living space and the possibility of accommodating 4 people for the night. As for the price and the sea trial, we will have to wait a few more months for the finalization of the model.
