Although the RB34 motor-sailing catamaran is not, by any means, the biggest built at my yard, it is one of the most important to me as it represents my first foray into series production. It is something I have wanted to attempt ever since I went out on my own as a boat-builder.
Designed by the Russian naval architect, Albert Nazarov and his Pattaya-based design team at Albatross Marine, the RB34 is a relatively heavy displacement (for a multihull) family cruiser, with plenty of interior and exterior space, and fitted to a standard that belies its highly economical base price of $US135,000. It makes an ideal charter vessel for the tropical waters of Thailand.
Built in GRP and Nida-Core closed cell honeycomb sandwich, it sleeps eight in four double cabins, with two heads and a large, comfortable saloon with plenty of teak trim and joinery work. However, the most notable feature is a flying bridge for the helmsman, providing clear, 360 degree vision over the vessel and the surrounding waters and leaving the after deck clear for the passengers, who can sprawl comfortably on the wide, cushioned seating. Because of the cat's high displacement, the after davits are able to hoist a jet-ski.
Since the first RB34 was launched, less than four months ago, another six have been ordered. With enquiries from local and overseas buyers being received nearly every day, the RB34 has become the backbone of one of my yard's projected cash flow this year. So much so that the design and production of larger models in the RB catamaran series have already begun – but I will write more on that later.
Designed by the Russian naval architect, Albert Nazarov and his Pattaya-based design team at Albatross Marine, the RB34 is a relatively heavy displacement (for a multihull) family cruiser, with plenty of interior and exterior space, and fitted to a standard that belies its highly economical base price of $US135,000. It makes an ideal charter vessel for the tropical waters of Thailand.
Built in GRP and Nida-Core closed cell honeycomb sandwich, it sleeps eight in four double cabins, with two heads and a large, comfortable saloon with plenty of teak trim and joinery work. However, the most notable feature is a flying bridge for the helmsman, providing clear, 360 degree vision over the vessel and the surrounding waters and leaving the after deck clear for the passengers, who can sprawl comfortably on the wide, cushioned seating. Because of the cat's high displacement, the after davits are able to hoist a jet-ski.
Since the first RB34 was launched, less than four months ago, another six have been ordered. With enquiries from local and overseas buyers being received nearly every day, the RB34 has become the backbone of one of my yard's projected cash flow this year. So much so that the design and production of larger models in the RB catamaran series have already begun – but I will write more on that later.
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RB34 basic specifications:LOA: 10.46mBeam: 5.93mDraught: 0.54mDisplacement: 7.35 tonsWorking Sail Area: 50 sq. mts.Engine 2 x 14hp Yanmar Diesel Sail-Drive
Above: (Top) The computer-rendered interior layout of the RB 34. (Bottom) The series' prototype undergoes sea-trials off Jomtien, south of Pattaya, Thailand.
Above: (Top) The computer-rendered interior layout of the RB 34. (Bottom) The series' prototype undergoes sea-trials off Jomtien, south of Pattaya, Thailand.
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