Ekolo'kat 34

You already know the Ekolo'kat 40 which is being production built by Catathai Shipyard in Thailand and the Ekolo'kat 33, a speedy day/weekend cruiser. Here is the latest addition to the family the Ekolo'kat 34. A high performance catamaran for fun under sail with friends but also a fast family cruiser with plenty of room.

Light thanks to the construction method: vacuum bagged, infused vinylester resin on glassed foam sandwich core. Kevlar and optional carbon fibre reinforcements locally where required to keep building costs down.

The hulls conserve the same system of narrow width at waterline and a chine flat adding volume to the hull higher up. The chine also acts as an efficient spray deflector when the bow starts smoking! Yes, predicted speed, without over doing things, is between 15 and 20 knots, probably more with an experienced crew and optional high performance rig.

In order to exploit this potential fully a rotating aluminium mast is standard but a carbon fibre spar is a performance option. Deck hardware layout and a self tacking fore sail make for easy sail adjustments.

Interior layout comprises 3 large double berths 2 metres long by 1.5 metres wide and a large head/shower compartment. In the warm climate version a large outdoor galley and dining unit seats 6 adults, the bathing platform on the rear of each hull plus the trampoline provide plenty of space for games and relaxing. An optional cold climate hard top covers the galley and dining area.

New on this model is the double outboard in a well system with trapdoors to close the motor well when the motors are raised. This keeps the hull lines pure under the waterline and ugly external motor supports are done away with. The motors are as efficient as inboards but the weight and low cost are in favor of this new system.

Other interesting options are available for this model including replacing the dagger boards by a long keel. The first Ekolo'kat 34 is under construction at TBM Composites, Tahiti and a second soon underway at Catathai Shipyard.

Nicolas Gruet
Tahiti, April 2008
http://www.ngyachtdesign.com