Following the purchase of Catalina and True North Yachts earlier this year by boat building entrepreneur Michael Reardon, the sailing community wondered where the new owner and his team would lead the last big production sailboat builder left in North America. Well, now we know.
In August, Catalina announced that it was partnering with Tripp Yacht design to bring a new Catalina 48 to market. The Bill Tripp-design breaks ground for the venerable American builder by introducing sleek and modern design elements and high-tech keel, rudder and rig configurations.
In Late August, in a landmark move for North American boat building, Readon announced the acquisition of the classic American brands Tartan, Freedom and AMP Spars from Seattle Yachts. This consolidation creates a new age for companies that have been struggling in recent years.
“Tartan, Freedom, Catalina, and True North each has a proud history and loyal following,” said Michael Reardon. “Together, we have the teams, resources, and shared vision to protect each brand’s legacy while driving innovation for the next generation of boaters.”
Catalina 48 Breaks New Ground
Catalina Yachts has been in business for almost 60 years and was once the world’s largest sailboat builder. Founder Frank Butler arguably got more people out sailing, racing and cruising than any other North American. His boats and those designed by his protegee Gerry Douglous were and are solid, handsome, practical cruisers that represent excellent quality and long-term value.
The new Tripp design has a flashier look with a plumb bow and fixed bow sprit, a flat sheer and a low-slung cabin top. The cockpit is open and large with two tables and long bench settees. The twin wheels are well aft with the main sheet traveler running across the cockpit floor in front of them. All of this is represents a far cry from Catalinas of old.
“This is not just a new boat. It’s the beginning of something bigger,” said Patrick Turner, President of Catalina Yachts. “The Catalina 48 brings together the best of who we’ve been and where we’re going. It’s American luxury, redefined for the sea.”
Yet, despite the builder’s new design direction, Turner and his team plan to keep the essential Catalina DNA. It will be an honest American design, built by an American yard for American’s seeking luxury cruisers that that can take them anywhere they want to sail in comfort and safety.
“We’re thrilled to bring a new voice to a brand with such a storied legacy,” said Bill Tripp, principal of Tripp Design. “There’s an authenticity in Catalina’s approach that aligns perfectly with our philosophy—beautiful, honest.
As the new Catalina 48 project goes forward and as news comes out of Tartan, Freedom, True North and AP we will keep you posted.
