Hobie Cat Alternatives: Are They Any Good?

Hobie Cat is a prominent brand that manufactures top-quality sailing catamarans, surfboards, sailboats, kayaks, etc. If you have already used one of their products, you know how good they really are. They offer a wide range of options for beginners and experienced people.

But here, I will help you find some better or similar alternative products of Hobie Cat. They can give a feel of “fly a hull” in the air for a bit! Let’s learn about them without further ado!

Alternatives To Hobie Cat

A good number of brands sell top-quality sailing catamarans that are available in different sizes, styles, and layouts to suit your personal preferences.

Hobie Cat

The followings are the best alternatives for Hobie Cat.

  • Wave Catamarans
  • Leopard Catamarans
  • Catana
  • Fountaine Pajot
  • Gemini Catamarans
  • Lagoon
  • Gunboat
  • Privilege Catamarans America

Hobie Cat has been a good choice for years. But the sailing market has become competitive.

Many brands come with better quality products at a lower price. Let’s check some best substitutes for Hobie Cat that can be your ultimate choice.

  • Wave Catamarans

Are you an enthusiast sailor?

Wave Catamarans

Wave Catamarans can be a perfect choice if you prefer modern design and innovative technology.

They are an ideal pick to have a comfortable rest on the water.

For example, WAVE 50 is one of the favorites of this brand.

It comes with a modern hybrid drive system and luxurious cabins with bathrooms. The internal space provides distinctive spaces for relaxation.

WAVE 50 has a distinctive shape and large windows to offer an excellent panoramic view. The innovative energy management system will monitor the entire performance of the catamaran to ensure efficiency and safety.

  • Leopard Catamarans

Leopard has earned immense success in the US market with their spacious, robust, and functional cats. The company has been in the market for more than 50 years. They offer a wide range of small and mid-sized catamarans.

These powercats have come with a contemporary design and many attractive features. The stability and efficiency you will get from their powerful catamarans are top-notch.

They come with sufficient outdoor entertaining space to provide optimal comfort. Leopard 40 Powercat, Leopard 42, Leopard 50, Leopard 53 Powercat, etc., are top choices from this brand.

  • Catana
Catana

Another prominent brand is Catana, which is well-known for making high-quality shipyards.

They started the journey in 1984, still going well with 30 years of expertise and innovation.

People like their catamarans primarily due to their advanced design and faster speed.

Catana uses advanced and environmentally friendly technologies to ensure excellent enjoyment and safe sailing.

The manufacturer uses foam sandwich vacuum infusion technology to create super-strong catamarans. They make 42 to 70 feet of catamarans. The company also offers semi-customizing options to fulfill individual requirements.

  • Fountaine Pajot

Want to get a vibe of a premium cruising lifestyle? Fountaine Pajot comes with a wide range of sailing catamarans. Their top-notch performance and immense comfort will help you create timeless memories.

These sailing catamarans are equipped with industry-leading technologies and modern designs. Fountaine Pajot offers both flagship versions as well as entry-level cruising catamarans to satisfy various types of people.

Catamaran Isla 40, Catamaran Astréa 42, Catamaran Aura 51, Catamaran Alegria 67, Catamaran New 80, etc., are top choices from this brand.  For example, Catamaran New 80 has dual-side cockpits with large openings. The interior area features guest rooms, true suites, and cabins.

  • Gemini Catamarans
Gemini Catamarans

Gemini Catamarans could be a perfect choice if you have always wanted to explore the sea with your family members.

Their family-friendly performance cruising catamarans have an upgraded engine for fast sailing and incredible maneuverability.

The brand offers a wide range of options, such as Gemini Freestyle 399 Power, Gemini Freestyle 37, Gemini Legacy 35, Telstar 28, Gemini 105Mc Design Touch, etc.

They also manufacture single-design cruising catamarans with sufficient accommodations and enough light and air to come. Due to its innovative deck layout, you don’t need to be concerned about safety and stability.

Gemini Freestyle 37 can be a game changer if you prefer a unique design and customization. It is perfect for low-cost operations. 

  • Lagoon

Lagoon Catamarans are well known for top-quality design that shows elegance and refinement. Enjoying a seafaring life is what you will love about it. Their catamarans have spacious living areas and decks to ensure no chance of missing the excitement of the splendor of the sea.

The company offers different sizes of catamarans, from 40 feet to 77 feet. Relaxing, entertaining, and exploring the sea with family and friends are what you will love about these catamarans.

From a single person to small families to large families, Lagoon offers various options to suit your needs. You can enjoy outstanding views with its main sail and a high aspect ratio while sitting in the interior spaces.

  • Gunboat
Gunboat 6803

The marketing campaign of Gunboat is “Life is too short to sail a slow boat.”

Their catamarans are notorious for three key reasons: head-turning style, comfort, and performance.

Highly functional sailing catamarans from Gunboat allow you to move forward enthusiastically.

Gunboat manufactures a wide range of products such as Gunboat 68, Gunboat 80, Gunboat 72V, brokerage, charter, etc.

For example, its Gunboat 80 is suitable for full cruising and racing. The sailing boat has unparallel stability and can show reliable performance. If you are looking for a comfortable and attractive catamaran without compromising the speed, Gunboat 80 is undoubtedly a game changer.

  • Privilege Catamarans America

Are you a fan of new cruising catamarans? Privilege Catamarans America might be your ultimate choice due to its design & outstanding craftsmanship.

Whether a full formal dining or casual lounging, their cruising catamarans come with a flexible layout to suit your daily needs.

The company introduced New Signature 650 recently, which has an offshore hull design. It can show fast sailing performance with enough living comfort.

Is Hobie Cat Worth It?

Sailing catamarans from Hobie Cat are performance-oriented products. They are highly durable too. The company offers various Sailing catamarans such as rotomolded, fiberglass beach-launchable, Mirage Island trimarans, etc.

If you are a speed-loving sailor, HOBIE 16 is one of the best options. Its sheer power and asymmetrical fiberglass hulls will provide a feel of revolutionized multi-hull sailing.

But, if you prefer a multi-mode performer, MIRAGE TANDEM ISLAND seems an appropriate choice. However, their sailing catamarans are not an excellent choice for a large family. They are best for single or 2-3 people.

Also Read: Differences Between Zodiac And Takacat Inflatable Boats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the easiest catamaran to sail?

A low-drafted catamaran that ranges from 45 to 50 feet is easy to sail and navigate in various conditions.

Do they still make Hobie Cat?

Hobie Cat Company still manufactures various sailing catamarans, surfboards, sailboats, and kayaks in France and the United States.

Can you leave a Hobie Cat in the water?

It is best not to leave Hobie Cat in the water, especially on a mooring, because the hull material might be damaged, and the gelcoat will absorb water that will trigger cracks.

How fast can a Hobie Cat Go?

A Hobie Cat can go as fast as 27 mph if you utilize maximum engine power.

Wrapping Up

Which option appeared to be the best one of the above Hobie Cat alternatives?

Hobie Cat is undoubtedly a great brand. But it might not be the best choice to suit your sailing needs.

If you want to enjoy the sea life with a good number of family members and friends, you better select a substitute from our discussed list.

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