Our Story
Since 2008, catamaran.co.za has been the definitive source for South African catamaran news, reviews, and industry coverage. What started as a passion project has grown into a comprehensive resource covering every aspect of the South African catamaran industry — from world-renowned builders to exotic charter destinations.
From Cape Town to the Seychelles, Mozambique’s Quirimbas Archipelago to Walvis Bay — wherever South African-built catamarans sail in African waters and beyond, we cover it. We bridge the gap between South African catamaran excellence and the global sailing community.
What “Naas” Means
If you’re not from South Africa, you might be wondering about our tagline. “Naas” (pronounced “nah-ce”) is South African slang derived from Afrikaans, meaning “nice” or “excellent.” It’s informal, warm, and uniquely South African — much like our approach to covering the catamaran industry. And yes, we’re serious about the biltong style. Quality, substance, and authenticity matter.
What We Cover
Boat Builders
South Africa punches well above its weight in the global catamaran market. We cover builders including:
- Leopard Catamarans (Robertson & Caine) — The world’s largest catamaran manufacturer
- Balance Catamarans — Performance cruising cats earning international awards
- Two Oceans Marine — Custom luxury catamarans and the legendary 82HPC
- Tag Yachts — Innovative designs from Cape Town
- Knysna Catamarans — Heritage builder with a global following
- Scape Yachts — Day charter specialists (Du Toit Yacht Design)
- Maverick Catamarans — Cutting-edge multihull technology
- Celtic Yachts — Boutique builder specializing in custom projects
Charter Destinations
South African-built catamarans sail worldwide. We cover charter opportunities across Africa and the globe:
- Seychelles — Paradise in the Indian Ocean
- Mauritius — Island sophistication
- Mozambique — Africa’s tropical sailing frontier
- Namibia — Remote day charters from Walvis Bay
- Cape Town — Home waters and Table Bay
- Croatia — The stunning Dalmatian Coast
- Caribbean — From Grenada to the BVIs
- Malta — Mediterranean history and culture
Adventures & Owner Stories
The best stories come from those actually sailing these boats. Our adventure coverage includes owner interviews, passage reports, Atlantic crossings, Pacific voyages, and the occasional dramatic rescue. These aren’t just boats — they’re vehicles for life-changing experiences.
Industry News
We track the business side too: boat show coverage (especially the Cape Town International Boat Show), industry awards like SABBEX, builder challenges and opportunities, industry consolidation like the MIASA merger, and emerging technologies shaping the future of multihull design.
Our Coverage Since 2008
Why South African Catamarans?
South Africa’s geographical position at the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans creates unique conditions. Cape Town weather can be challenging — strong winds, big seas, and unpredictable conditions. Boats built here are designed to handle real ocean sailing, not just coastal cruising.
The favorable exchange rate makes South African-built catamarans exceptional value compared to European builders. But it’s not just about price — South African yards deliver world-class craftsmanship, innovative design, and boats purpose-built for serious blue water cruising.
From Leopard’s dominance in the global charter market to Balance’s Cruising World Boat of the Year awards, South African builders consistently prove their excellence on the world stage.
Our Philosophy
We believe in authentic, in-depth coverage. When we review a boat, we talk to owners who actually sail them. When we cover a charter destination, we focus on the real experience. When we interview builders, we ask the questions that matter to serious cruisers.
We’re not funded by builders or charter companies. Our content serves sailors, potential buyers, and charter clients — people who love catamarans and want substantive information to make informed decisions.
This is a niche site covering a niche industry, and we’re okay with that. Quality over quantity. Depth over breadth. Very naas, biltong style.
Get In Touch
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