[PCW] Coastal Cat 34 (a.k.a. "Prowler by Logan") magazine review

[rodgibbons at mindspring.com]

DISCLAIMER:  I'm a catamaran dealer.

As per mention of the new magazine review for the PDQ-41 (PASSAGEMAKER magazine, May/June 2008), another power cat has just been reviewed, too; this one in BOATING NEW ZEALAND (June, 2008: pages 32-thru-40). The cat reviewed is the new 10.4 meter (34') outboard-powered motor cat, the Coastal Cat 34. The review includes ten full-color photos of the interior and exterior. I thought the review more candid than the typical "easy-lob" reviews that appear in most U.S. boating publications. 

I did notice that this review does not mention any of the changes to be included in the U.S. version -- then again, why would there be mention of that in a New Zealand publication? These potential changes, purportedly to be standard in the U.S. version, include: 
--  doors rather than curtains separating the hull compartments; 
--  holding tank; 
--  more galley stowage; 
--  option for a 2nd seat, or double-seat at the helm; 
--  a possible flybridge-helm option; 
--  and additional items.

Behind-the-scenes negotiations are going on as regards U.S. production of the Coastal Cat 34. Specifically, although it's currently produced in New Zealand (with the multi-syllabic name of  "Prowler by Logan"), it's likely to be constructed for North American buyers at a yard 90 miles north of Seattle. The N. American name ("Coastal Cat 34"), may eventually be used world-wide.

Hull #1 was exhibited at a New Zealand boat show. Hull #2 recently appeared at Australia's premier boat show, garnering 4 additional orders. I'd seen photos of #1, and the interior quality of #2 is even better -- and quite good for both a new boat, AND for a moderate-size cat like this. 

I'll be pleased to forward this NEW ZEALAND BOATING review of the CC-34, off-line, to anyone who's interested.

Rod Gibbons
Cruising Cats USA