Manta 44 Power Cat vs PDQ 34

[Lion]

I'm considering either of these as an option for spending the winter months in the waters surrounding Florida: The PDQ seems to have an active following but can find no user forum for the Manta Power Cat. Does anyone have experience with both or know of a usergroup for the Manta?
Thanks!

[jsschieff]

There is a fairly active power cat forum I know of and Pat Reischmann, one of the founders of Manta is a regular contributor. I was sad to see both companies shut down -- the Manta 44 and the PDQ 34 are terrific boats. The Manta 44 is considerably larger than the PDQ 34 inside -- you may want to look at the PDQ 41 for comparison.
Endeavour powercats are kind of homely to my eye but I think the construction is decent and you can pick up a used Endeavour 44 for about as much as a PDQ 34.

The PDQ's seem to sell quickly, at least the late model ones. After talking to the builders and sales people for PDQ at endless boat shows, I have gotten the feeling that the PDQ's were significantly upgraded every year of production, and if you prefer the PDQ try to buy as recent a vintage model as possible. I love the PDQ 34, but it is just too cramped below for anyone above 6'2" with a beamy build.

[markpj23]

The Manta owners group is very active, but forum / Yahoo group is restricted to owners. I know of one Manta powercat that has just been listed - Pangea is the name - on Yachtworld.

If you get serious about a Manta - and they are very good boats - many current owners are willing & able to provide detailed discussion of the boats' pros and cons. Let me know and I will gladly ask the owners group - there are only 14 powercats I believe - if a PC owner can contact you.

Here's another website for Mantas..: Links

Good luck with your search!

[JerryF]

With regard to the PDQ34 I suggest you consider ONLY a 2005 or newer one. 2005 is the year the PDQ34 was redesigned to have a much larger galley area. I suggest you look at PDQ34s that are for sale and compare the galley pictures in both the 2004 and 2005 models.

JerryF

[Manta cat7]

Hi I am purchasing a 2006 44 manta power cat and need to find as built drawings for a coast guard review for certification any one have any thoughts