The Multihull Center, located in the serene waters of Foss Quay, Millbrook, Torpoint, Cornwall, stands as a venerable institution in the world of multihull yachting. Established in 1968, it has evolved from a pioneering boatyard into a hub for cutting-edge catamaran design and construction, notably as the home of Dazcat performance catamarans.
The story of The Multihull Center begins in 1968 with the vision of the late Pat Patterson. A true pioneer in multihull design and construction, Patterson sailed his own designed and built 42-foot catamaran to a disused brickwork quarry, establishing what would become Europe's first specialist multihull boatyard. His foundational work laid the groundwork for a facility dedicated to the unique needs of catamaran and trimaran enthusiasts and builders.
History and Evolution
For decades, The Multihull Center has been synonymous with expertise in multihulls, offering a comprehensive range of services from repairs and storage to brokerage. A significant turning point in the company's history came in 2012 when it became the base for Dazcat and Multimarine. This move brought together the established infrastructure of The Multihull Center with the innovative design prowess of Dazcat, a brand founded by Darren Newton in 1994. This integration solidified the yard's position as a leading custom composite engineering expert, with over 20 years of experience in advanced boat construction.
Design Philosophy and Identity
The Multihull Center, through its Dazcat brand, has cultivated a reputation for building high-performance catamarans that seamlessly blend racing capabilities with cruising comfort and aesthetic appeal. Their design philosophy, championed by Darren Newton and refined over more than 30 years, emphasizes a unique triangulation of weight, volume, and cost, delivering boats that are both fast and luxurious.
Dazcat yachts are characterized by their "designed and built by sailors, for sailors" ethos. This results in signature design features such as minimalist yet beautifully appointed interiors, often allowing owners to customize finishes with choices like dark wood and white upholstery. Comfort, performance, and ease of handling are paramount, even for longer distances. Collaborations with naval architects like Ben Rogerson on models such as the Dazcat 1895 underscore their commitment to innovative design.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Dazcat's legacy is marked by a series of significant and successful models that have made their mark in both racing circuits and cruising grounds. Their extensive portfolio includes designs spanning over 30 years.
Among the most celebrated models are:
- Dazcat 1295: A popular design known for combining performance with comfort.
- Dazcat 1495: Nominated for European Yacht of the Year in 2016, this model is lauded as a champion for long-distance cruising, showcasing the brand's ability to create comfortable live-aboard vessels that still deliver impressive performance.
- Dazcat 1895: Designed in collaboration with Ben Rogerson, this "supercat" is built for high average daily mileage over longer distances, emphasizing both speed and onboard pleasure.
- Dazcat 1195: An enduring favorite among the Dazcat range, despite current production focus on larger models.
- Dazcat 995 Easy Tiger: Exemplifying the diverse range of past projects.
The company also undertakes high-profile custom projects, catering to specific client needs for both sail and power multihulls, reflecting their expertise in bespoke composite construction.
The Builder Today
Today, The Multihull Center continues to thrive as a unique and comprehensive boatyard specializing in multihulls. Operating from its historic location in Millbrook, Cornwall, it offers an array of services including Dazcat custom builds, brokerage, repairs, and storage. The yard's extensive facilities are capable of handling large yachts, providing a supportive environment for the multihull community.
Dazcat currently focuses production on its D1295 and D1495 models, appealing to owners who seek both exhilarating performance and practical comfort for racing or extended cruising. The ownership experience is often described as life-changing, fostered by a strong community of enthusiasts who appreciate the distinct qualities and adventures offered by these impressive boats. The Multihull Center and Dazcat remain at the forefront of multihull innovation, driven by a team of composite engineering experts committed to their craft.