Two award-winning sailboats in Australian debut
by Bob Wonders on 14 Apr 2011
With 60 examples already sold, Catalina is obviously on a winer with the stylish Catalina 445. Catalina Yachts
It’s shaping as a very good year for US-based sailboat manufacturer Catalina.
Two of his vessels, the Catalina 355 and the Catalina 445 have received multiple awards on the US market and both will be unveiled to Australian buyers at the forthcoming 23rd Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (May 19-22).
Three prominent US sailing publications have been lavish in their praise of the two vessels.
The Catalina 355 was named ‘Domestic Boat of the Year’ and ‘Best Midsize Cruiser, 30’ to 39’’.
Her larger colleague, the Catalina 445 was honoured as ‘Best Cruising Monohull -Under 50’ and ‘Best Full-Size Cruiser’.
Prominent industry identity Norman Ambrose, CEO of Australia’s Catalina distributor the Ausail Marine Group, said Catalina had already sold 60 examples of the Catalina 445.
He described the model as 'building a solid reputation.'
'On deck, it is a slimline model without compromising on outdoor space,' he explained.
'The Catalina 445 has a lower deck profile with less freeboard and a sleeker hull shape; it’s a rather sporty, new design and I think it will appeal not only to the cruising market, but also for sailors looking to do some racing,: he explained.
Because the style and design features that were so well received aboard the 455 Catalina, the company decided to carry those elements forward into the all-new Catalina 355.
The design of the Catalina 355 boasts a handsome, low-profile cabin structure with a long waterline, a moderate beam and freeboard.
Both vessels have stylish interiors, with lavish use of hand-finished, clear varnished teak.
According to Mr Ambrose, the Catalina philosophy is straightforward.
'Catalina designs boats that stand up to real world conditions and sail well,' he declared.
'They must be comfortable above and below, easy to maintain and hold their value.
'I believe the company has a commitment to owner satisfaction that has enhanced customer confidence and brand loyalty worldwide,' he added.
As Mr Ambrose rightly points out, with the Australian dollar at near record highs against the US greenback, there’s never been a better time to consider American-built boats.
For further information contact the Ausail Marine Group, telephone (07) 5514-8541 (Queensland) and (02) 9979-7217 (New South Wales) or visit the website, www.catalina.com.au
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