Aluminium catamarans.

[Sand crab]

Originally Posted by Garrett Reid

There is an 2002 aluminum 47 foot catamaran for sale in Spain, the builder was Yapluka out of Germany apparently. Nice boat but way way overpriced imho. Can't find any info on the builder, does anyone know about the origins of this build?

I'm pretty sure Yaplukas were built in France. Gregor Tarjan, owner of the Aeroyacht brokerage had some pics of them including in the build process in his book, Catamarans A Complete Guide. I think he was a dealer. They were high end and had a good reputation.

[allatsea99]

I used to run GRP charter boats 'over' coral but I am converted to Al. Evidence of strength - the leading spar rigging Co. in Australia rigging 100's vessels annually, remarks how fast turnbuckles tighten on these boats (Mumby 48): an indicator of hull/design stiffness. Temperature - spray poly-closed-cell foam 40mm throughout interior, & cheap acrylic Tread-grip on deck is cool & soft to the foot. Cool inside esp. bilges. These are enduring, light, fast boats - BUT you have to educate yourself on electrolysis - all electrics are isolated (no earth) & anode maintenance critical. Fairing should not be an issue unless you like show ponies.

[Factor]

Originally Posted by SV WELDER

How many rocky shores do they smash a Boeing against on a regular basis?

. Dunno, none I guess, but they fly at 400-500 knots and fly through hail, get slammed into the ground etc every landing.

[fcftampa]

Originally Posted by SV WELDER

invented a 24v battery power aluminum welding rig that works perfect for aluminum in the range of 1/8-1/4” thickness.

Would love to hear about this. No experience welding at all, but have considered the maintenance of alu boats away from access to professional welders .
Can you point to any resources?
Thanks