Endeavourcat 30 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Endeavourcat 30 Mk II are defined by its wide 14’6” beam and low-aspect fixed keels. These keels allow for a remarkably shallow draft of just under three feet, making it an ideal platform for the Bahamas or the Florida Keys. Under sail, the 30 Mk II is stable and predictable, though it lacks the pointing ability of a monohull or a performance multihull with deep boards. The vessel features a "high-aspect" rig, typically carrying a large fully-battened mainsail and a smaller self-tacking jib, which simplifies single-handed operation.

Handling under power is one of the more unique aspects of this model. While many 30-foot catamarans utilize twin outboards or small twin diesels, many Endeavourcat 30 Mk II units were equipped with a single central diesel engine connected to a Sillette Sonic steerable outdrive. This configuration allows the drive to be tilted out of the water to reduce drag and prevent corrosion while sailing, though it requires a different docking technique than twin-engine setups. Owners often note that while the boat is not a light-air flyer, it tracks well in a breeze and offers a remarkably dry ride due to its high bridgedeck clearance, which minimizes the "slapping" or "pounding" common in smaller multihulls.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 30 Mk II is where Endeavour’s "living-centric" design philosophy is most evident. By utilizing the full width of the bridgedeck, the cabin provides a panoramic view and a level of social space rarely found in 30-foot sailboats. The standard layout features a large U-shaped dinette in the main salon, with the galley located down in the port hull. This "galley-down" configuration keeps the primary living area open and airy.

The Mk II version introduced several refinements over the original 30, including improved ventilation and more durable interior finishes. Typically, the boat is configured with two or three cabins. In the two-cabin version, the starboard hull is often dedicated to a spacious master suite with a large head and separate shower stall forward—a luxury usually reserved for 40-foot vessels. Headroom is generous throughout, often exceeding 6’2”, which contributes to the "big boat" feel. The 30 Mk II shares its hull DNA with the original Endeavourcat 30, but it served as the functional precursor to the larger Endeavourcat 36, which expanded on this layout with even more storage and water capacity for long-term liveaboards.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Endeavourcat 30 Mk II should focus their inspections on the unique mechanical and structural elements of the design.

1. Sillette Sonic Drive Maintenance: If the vessel is equipped with the steerable outdrive, the leg’s bellows, seals, and lift mechanism must be inspected. These units are reliable if serviced, but neglect can lead to water intrusion in the drive leg or failure of the tilting motor.
2. Window and Portlight Seals: The large wraparound windows in the salon provide excellent visibility but are a known point for potential leaks. Check for evidence of water tracking down the interior liners or clouding/crazing of the acrylic panels.
3. Deck Core Integrity: While the hulls are solid glass, the decks use a core material (typically foam or balsa depending on the specific build year) that can suffer from delamination if hardware—such as stanchion bases or cleats—was not properly re-bedded.
4. Rudder Bushings: On older hulls, the rudder bearings can develop play. Owners should check for excessive vibration or "clunking" in the steering system while under power.
5. Bridgedeck Hull Joinery: Inspect the "knuckle" where the bridgedeck meets the hulls for any stress cracking, which can indicate the boat has been driven hard in heavy seas.

Community & Resources

Owners of Endeavour catamarans often find support through specialized multihull groups and the manufacturer’s legacy resources. While Endeavour Catamaran Corp. has shifted focus toward power catamarans, they maintain a presence in Clearwater, Florida, and are known for providing technical assistance to legacy owners. The Endeavour Owners Group is a prominent resource for technical wikis and historical documentation regarding the 30 and 30 Mk II models.

The Verdict

The Endeavourcat 30 Mk II is a specialized cruising tool that excels as a coastal liveaboard and shallow-water explorer. It sacrifices raw upwind speed and racing agility for a level of interior volume and stability that is virtually unmatched in the 30-foot category.

Pros:

• Exceptional Volume: Offers the interior space and head arrangement of a 38-40 foot monohull.
• Shallow Draft: At 2’10”, it can access anchorages that are off-limits to most cruisers.
• Ease of Handling: Self-tacking jibs and centralized controls make it an ideal "couple's boat."
• Stability: The wide beam provides a level platform both at anchor and underway.

Cons:

• Upwind Performance: Fixed keels and a wide profile limit the boat’s ability to point high into the wind.
• Single Engine Maneuverability: Units with a single outdrive lack the "spin-on-a-dime" capability of twin-engine catamarans.
• Aesthetic Profile: The high-volume bridgedeck results in a boxier silhouette that may not appeal to traditionalists.