The Most AFFORDABLE New Cruising Catamaran in Existence [Full Tour] Learning the Lines
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- čas přidán 6. 06. 2020
- The Smart Cat S280 starts to fulfill a gap in the cruising catamaran market that needed to be filled. Before today, "small and affordable" could never enter the same sentence as "cruising catamaran," with most cruising catamarans starting at half a million dollars or more.
I've been saying that the catamaran market in general is moving towards a "bigger is better" mentality and that's definitely not the always the case. I've been wanting smaller and more affordable cats to go on the new boat market for a long time now, and the Smart Cat S280, although definitely not perfect, is a breath of fresh air in that regard.
She's small, relatively affordable with a price tag of $149,900, and offers a ton of accommodation for a 28 foot boat. She's built to be a daysailer, weekended or light coastal cruiser, and I think she would be a fun boat for those purposes.
I'd love to see more manufacturers start to compete in this niche. It's nice that the Smart Cat S280 is here now, but I'd like to see more than one option for new cruising cats of this size, and more specifically options that emphasize sailing performance more than the Smart Cat S280.
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Base Price: $149,900
Smart Cat Website: s-comtech.com/?lang=en
USA Yacht Export: www.usayachtexport.com/
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Learning the Lines is a channel about us, an average couple in our 20's, with big dreams to be sailing the world by the time we're in our 30's. We're not afraid to jump into anything, put in the work, and learn as we go. For this reason our channel is very DIY focused, with the goal to show anyone watching that a lot is possible if you're not afraid to make some mistakes along the way.
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![Is This the PERFECT BLUEWATER Cruising Catamaran? [Full Tour] Learning the Lines](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Ei7lzeOS6T0/mqdefault.jpg)
![Proof That AFFORDABLE Bluewater Catamarans Exist! [Full Tour] Learning the Lines](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/fLS1PCzQ1Q8/mqdefault.jpg)
Than you, I saw an ad for one of these was super interested. I think there is a huge market for these. They can replace pontoon party boats, low priced charters and single family charters. for the price of 1 lagoon you can get what 3 of these in a charter fleet and charge half of what you would charge for the lagoon. I think there is a lot of potental for one of these.
Not sure that belongs in the category of “cruising” unless your definition means hanging out in the Keys. It looks more applicable as a floating tiki bar.
I think it actually might suit the market really well - it obviously can't sail worth anything and is probably not nearly seaworthy enough for serious cruising but if your goal is to rent out a floating condo that never leaves the dock for more than a quick sunset sail this seems to have a lot of advantages at $150k vs a $500k+ lagoon or fountaine pajot. I see Catana trying to move in that direction with the Bali (cheaper bigger less seaworthy worse-sailing "fat cat" floating condo style catamarans)
I really don't know what to do with that Fridge. It's just big enough for a six-pack and sandwich... You'll be RESTOCKING after every meal...
@@VeganSurf yes, only for the market you noted, but not The market in general.
I agree, but there was a channel called Luckyfish that sailed a Wharram, professionally built, from South Africa to the Caribbean. They did fine, and lived aboard for extended periods of time, but it was, as you mentioned, the Caribbean.
if you stick close to shores, you could take down (or up) the East Coast of the US to/from the Caribbean (and all around that general area). Take a look around CZcams and see the people is things not much bigger (or about the same size or even smaller) than cross the entire Atlantic.
great video, there were some older boats made in Australia along similar dimensions in the 90s called Seawind 850 , still a few for sale every now and then for under USD60,000
Wow that's something to really think about. I wud definitely enclose that but its cute an affordable!
Can't wait to see u sail it... love u 2 thanks for what u do!!!
Thanks for putting this together. Great pace for the video - I always appreciate dense information over time. (less time is best) The key takeaway from the presentation for me was consideration on the equipment (autopilot) and aft seating during sail. Being on the West Coast, this is most likely not going to be available for some time but good know about this product. Well done.
Enjoying the videos. Thank you 👍😁
I think you did a real good job on the synopsis, more permanent stays will miss not having a saloon or even dry watch keeping. Im 65 years old ex submarine industry engineer and this is what happened when the cat industry made its place, which started in the UK. Boats there had to be more affordable so they began with boats like this and quickly moved to 31-32 ft, because that length offers a cuddy (non standing) saloon. Makers were eventually to roll the numbers and figure out that 36-39 ft offered more room and more profit with little more build content. This became the basis of the bare boat market for cats which developed into 4 doubles and all we see here. That now sustains much of cruising cat design. Seawind took us back to this concept and grew to 3/4 saloon for all the same reasons. Ex bare boat vessels still offer cheap source for cats, but just about everything needs to be replaced.
Im a bit meh about the outboards, the rig is the opposite of the Prout cat concept because mains offer more control and speed at the expense of handling. You did well to spot theres no auto-pilot which might require another set of rams.
Push them on that 3/4 cuddy saloon, and make sure you understand the differences. Personally I cant see it working below 32 ft,
The very next place is the solar and hybrid cat because of deck space for panels. This without a rig can afford the top hamper of a saloon without the rig.
cheers
Thank you, very educating...
I agree with you completely.This boat is attempting to go after a niche, the crowd that doesn't know better, I agree its a day sailer at best, maybe a weekend, with a stop over and then back. That refrig/freezer is woofly inadequate for anything than a sandwich and a few beers. And the price seems steep for something so small that is not going to be used all that much in reality. I would put that money towards something more substantial.
There are alot of Cats 40ft and up, but that price range is 350K and up as well (new and used). What would be great to see is 32ft-40ft at a range of 150K to 275K with a more capable solon area and helm, better galley with a real refrigerater and freezer, go all SOLAR for power with internal electric motors, etc...
It can be done at an affordal price range and for an enterprising company it could be a real money maker as Solar is booming in the Cruising world right now. Maybe I am crazy but perhapes they are looking at this as a little power cat cruiser to up and down the river, ICW or a bay as I dont see alot of sailing being done. Although, maybe as a smaller boat it does better in very light breezes and could be fun for the day. I guess it all depends on what you are looking for.
According to the website this boat manufacturer is in SOUTH KOREA and not built in the USA. I am not aware of South Korea having any experience in boat building so I would be cautious of warrenties and boat build quality issues over the long term ownersip of this boat.
Michael Buck SK builds freight ships. That is for sure.
Thanks so much for the great review!
I like this boat! Very interested in the enclose cockpit one to, looking forward to watching your sail in it!
With this configuration, it more a daysailer/coastal cruiser. With some modification it can turn into a comfortable liveaboard but certainly it doesn't build for crossing oceans
Totally agree with your assessment. Thank you.
Really great video your right about the inside Salon not having one.
I am up in Ft Lauderdale , love to go on a sail with you guys when you do another boat review around here.
I Love it!! It’s maybe has something to cover the upper part in bad weather
Love it for what it is. Would like to some detail on how the outboard brackets work . The beach cat rig looks good. I wonder how it handles in short swell
Glad to see this video.
I think you could live on this with a cockpit enclosure no problem, its a great boat for its size.
Yes in fact there is a semi closed version as well
@@danielhasson6985 cool
I agree for west coast of Florida would be fine and you could head down south if you want to get out of the winter which is not bad here anyway.
House
Hey! Love what you are doing! Hope you get on the water soon! As for a real comparison on small cats you souls look at an Aventura 34... hope you can make a video on it! Keep the great work!
Good stuff, very interesting boat
Now that’s a really nice boat. Where I live in the Philippines, it would be perfect for living on and island hopping. I would definitely cover the sides of the salon with a roll up and removable material.
Not bad for $149k
Eagerly awaiting next video.
Like the boat , love u guys....
Basically a fiberglass Wharram. Definitely a warm weather, calm seas boat. Without an eisenglass enclosure it is a daysailor.
Thank you for featuring this boat. You are so right that new blue water cats are out of the financial range for most people, this cat fits this demographic. I would have liked to see you mention the measurements of the cabins and spaces below, clearly small but how small? When you go to the SmartCat website they mention one of the most important things IMHO about this cat and that is that it can be disassembled and shipped in a 40' shipping container! I would love to see how this is done and how much it would cost? Would have liked to hear what the captain thought of this cat in your sailing video, can understand his reluctance to give an honest opinion. Thanks for this video!
Looks like fun for enjoying a week-end of sun, scuba and swimming. I wouldn't sail too far from the coast though...
It looks like an overnight sailing party pontoon.
Very interested in this value optimized boat for coastal cruising and weekend getaways. Would love to see a review with the partially enclosed cockpit. Solar on top would be nice to see to power the boat on the weekend getaways (power laptops, phones, LED lighting and a heater). Like the location and setup of the galley. And yes, having a desk area with a seat would be nice. Perhaps put up a flat screen TV for entertainment, Internet access and navigation planning. Also like the low maintenance dual motors.
Nice weekender.
I like this boat it's well thought out, love the outboard engines, I hope they get a lot more production units on the water
Very clever design, more affordable ,I also love the outboard power,and running cost must be taking into account, mooring fees , and other coast's only go up and never down,hats off to the design team,great job.
Well thought out.??? HARDLY...
@@mikekennedy5470 look at the living space they have built into a 28 foot cat,
They is very comparable to my Gemini 105m. The Gemini is slightly longer at 34'but it is narrower at 14'. It also has an enclosed lounge and a queen master across the bow.
Weather protection - I'd like to see that option for the Lounge area, otherwise it's dead in the water at any price. Looks nicely made though. Didn't like the twin Yamaha's though - these would be petrol not diesel I believe - another big no-no. I'll check out their web site, but I'll be very interested in seeing the test sail. Good video.
The layout is pretty good for its size.
Yes please do a sale video because I'm very much interested.
A lot of boat for the price and since 99.90% of us can’t sail into the sunset it could be s lot of fun espically if it does sail well , tbd . If it’s a slug then it would be very disappointing . Simple canvas/ shades for evening anchoring would be a good addition , but too much windage for use while sailing . I hope it sells well. Cheers Warren
Interesting design 🙂
Needs extra refrigeration and an enclosure for the “salon”..
150k is a great price
the "House" version encloses the salon.
Awesome coastal cruiser for a small family or couple. Cockpit is reminiscent of a James Wharram Tiki 38 such as Lucky Fish except more refined. Some optional roll up panels would do wonders in tropical foul weather. Can't wait to see you sail her! One constructive comment, please pan a little slower with the camera as it makes me sea sick with rapid motions, lol! Love your channel!
I have thought about this boat, and there are alot more weekend boaters than ocean crossing folks so sure they would build to them. But later they may make a run of the later.
Looks to be a good daysailer, more stable than a mono haul but needs four clear roll-ups for the cockpit.
Being short and stubby the first 3 foot wave that comes along it will flip over. That's probably why its an open cockpit design so at least you won't be trapped. Nice touch.
Hi guys! I enjoy your videos. I think, as far as I follow, you guys are unique in doing this type of videos. Learning the lines... I like it. I want to encourage you to use nautical/maritime terms when you are making these videos. 5 or 10 years from now, people will still be viewing, and you may be looking back saying "what did we just say?"
It's not a knock on you guys, just a recommendation.
Thanks for the videos, keep living (or working towards) your dreams!
Be well!
Ah, one more thing... my 2 cents. I dont believe "length" of sugar scoops necessarily provide any more "buoyancy" .
There is engineering behind them. Longer will probably provide better slip, and surf. I actually think the shorter scoops provide more buoyancy.
Maybe there's a topic here for a techy video???
Either way. My 2 cents.
Thanks again for all the work you put into your videos.
Fair winds and following seas.
There's a phrase for this type of boat in the UK: Gin Palace.
You'd freeze to death here!!!
Nice boat though.
This is a nice boat for the Biscayne Bay and then you could sail it to the Bahamas in the right weather window if you were feeling adventurous. That being said, 120k is too much, especially after you consider what's out there on the used market at that price.
*150k
Love the boat, would like to have some enclosure to the Solon... however I hate the single head. I have two kids and I would think if they had to use the bathroom in the middle of the night, that would be a problem. Even as a weekender.
A very tidy little boat.
One of those berths need to be converted into a storage locker for toys and supplies if it was going to be a live-aboard boat. I would like to see some solar on it and a bigger refrigerator/freezer too. But it does have a lot of good parts to it for sure. I would be interested in if a bigger jib sail could be attached to the bow of the boat somehow or a spinnaker sail could be rigged up?
Truly a south Florida/Bahamas boat. Looks a lot like a Seawind.
Naval architect involved who used to work for Seawind
It's a CE B, so no open ocean, but hey. Something interesting would be a comparission between the Broadblue 346, the Aventura 34, the Ladyhawk 33 and the Hose Version of the S280. Interesting little boat, awsome price Tag.
Interesting catamaran
This boat design has a ton of potential, they could stretch it to 30 , have only 2 double rear beds and then enclose the pilot's cabin, with a common room and even have a small engine under each bed and a small bathroom on each side while adding a small open porthole to the commonroom
I was expecting you to cover this
Thanks for the video! I’m completely new to this, looking at cats for the future to live on part of the year. Would this be able to sail the Caribbean islands okay?
For bouncing around the islands it works.
Reminds me of the Seawind 1000xl but without the windows
I am curious with the nice hard top is it setup to hang canvas type drop enclosures to seal off the salon? Seems like it would be pretty well setup to do something like that which at least keeps the salon usable in a storm.
This cat reminds me of a Wharrahm (sp?) There is a channel or two with folks sailing those around the world. It’s a neat cat and will fill a niche.
For the same price, the Aventura 34 is more a true cat, with a closed cockpit, two in board diesel engines, much better finish inside...
I guess if you had some removable heavy weather curtains installed it would make it more than a fair weather only boat.
I live across the river from that marina - it's within 5 miles of Miami International Airport so your drone flight was a big no no!!!
Still cool boat
I watch all your reviews - thanks for sharing!!
Oh - and congrats!!
The zone was fine. DJI drones restrict flights in no fly zones. You literally cant take the drone off if you're in one. Also, I'm always aware of air traffic. I never fly over 100 feet in Miami/Ft Lauderdale because of this.
This is a nice cat. It is very well thought out for its size. I can't wait for the sail vid.
The enclosed version looks funny when its sailing, it is so short
This boat seems like a pontoon boat that extends your range and duration, but that is it.
Looking at this I would describe this more on the fancy "pontoon boat" with a mast. Crusing Catamaran??
Maybe good for a weekend not for "Cruising" gasoline engines??
This would be great for a couple living on water front that enjoy one or two day outings ....
Coastal cruises and weekend sailing yes gasoline outboards can be serviced all over the world.
Thanks for the video guy says always great. To be honest I just don't think I would feel safe cruising around the world in a 28-foot boat. What do you guys? your opinion. Thank you. PS what are you guys waiting for to get on the water? Lol
I'd like to see a little more enclosure around the cockpit
A modern day wharram , and they have crossed oceans many many many times, for many many years.
This was my first thought also.
at 28ft?
bethells86 Even smaller, 23 feet and 6 inches. That was the famous Tangaroa.
@@kl-a1dcaypso945 Thats right Wharrams are very sea worthy boats.
For only being 28ft it does have alot, great for a week sale extra.
Reminds me of a Maine Cat, although they are little more performance orientated. I have thought a catamaran like this would be awesome on the Great Lakes.
Probably wouldnt be hard to enclose the center area, especially with that hardtop roof. But again, itd be interesting to see how it sails?
if you check the site you can buy it inclosed which think be better
For what it is and with it can and can't do, IMHO a Seawind represents better value and you get SO much more.
It's for lake or harbor cruising only as the boat will be swamp as soon as the big ocean swells comes up.
I wish you would put the draft of each boat you do
I keep coming back to what you can get for the same amount of money for a late model cruising monohull. $149K would buy you an awful lot of boat in that regard.
Hi,
Do you guy plan to sail in the future?
You are not sailing to New Zealand on this but I'm sure 75% of catamaran owners are never going to do that
It's a very viable alternative for weekend "cruising" I can see some pontoon owners getting into sailing (or getting back into sailing my case)
Wow I was kinda shocked to see the wiring was not too clean in this brand new $150k boat. With so little of it, you would think they could have done that a little cleaner and labeled everything nicely. Its the little things and small details that truly set the better builders apart from those who are more concerned with how many they can pump out.
This a classic party boat. Great for day sailing, party events, etc.... Worthless for cruising, as a live-aboard, anywhere where there is seasonal weather (perfect for Southern CA, Cabo, etc.
Hey guys. I am looking to transition from home owner in Tampa to live aboard and I am looking at boats. I have been looking at a full featured 2006 Beneteau 51’ and will be setting up time to view the boat. If you’d like to join me to do an episode let me know. I am a novice but a quick study and would love some advice.
Reminds me of a Mainecat.....nice but more of a daysailer
Fair weather weekend toy.
Seems like reefing the main would be awkward. Other than that I like it a lot. Curious about it's performance at various points of sail.
For Base Price: $149,900, mmm; the Aventura $164,500 think is better and more adds.
C Oliva the Adventura is a nice cat. 34’? Price is good too and can stay cozy in the cold!
Hi Hello Guys , very nice videos let me ask would be safe to sail this kind of boat from Florida to Mexican Caribbean?
Fun simple.
This design is great for claustrophobic guests.
Clearly a weekender boat, but there is no place to sit other than the outdoor salon. What do you do in the fall, when it is chilly in the morning or when it is raining hard? This seems like a huge fair wind boat. I doubt with that small a foresail it can even sail to windward.
Interesting review but according to the manufactures web site it has a European B CE rating - "Category B - Offshore: includes boats operating offshore with winds to 40 knots and significant seas to 13 feet."
For Reference Category A - Ocean: covers largely self-sufficient boats designed for extended voyages with winds of over Beaufort Force 8 (over 40 knots), and significant wave heights above 13 feet, but excluding abnormal conditions such as hurricanes.
It's rated Offshore capable but not Ocean crossing capable.
This seems more like a charter party boat rather than a cruiser. I do think it is good for the catamaran market to have some cheaper options. Personally if I had 150k I’d buy a 50k mono hull, dump 50k into it and live of the remaining 50k while I cruised.
That's a gorlified party Catamaran !
See if you can check out the Aventura 34
Lack of head on starboard side kinda sucks. Gonna give your guests the Home Depot 5gal bucket for overnights? Flip side is you could overnight with 7-8 people if weather is good.
Good base price
I am surprised it dont come.with covers and icing glass. One would need some kind if cover to protect from spray on the ocean.
I dont like the galley and very little refrigerator capability if one is to go cruising longer than a weekend.
I would be very hesitant to cross the Atlantic in it.
Is there a large battery bank charged by the two outboard alternators?
Woah, I'm digging the Jake Gyllenhaal look. I swear I thought you were Jake Gyllenhaal for a second there when the video started. Also, this open design reminds me of a homemade catamaran that a bunch of guys sailed across the Atlantic in. At one point they were in a storm for almost a week and that didn't look like much fun.
How about Seawind 33'?
You two are too cute!
Are you filming the vessel or the saleswoman?
Would have preferred some way to enclose the salon area
is the beam to big for the great loop ie. erie canals and locks is it a deck stepped mast?