Endeavourcat 34 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing philosophy of the Endeavourcat 34 is rooted in "simplicity for the coastal cruiser." It features a fractional sloop rig with a self-tacking jib, a setup designed to minimize the physical effort required during tacks. Because the boat carries a generous beam of nearly 16 feet, it offers immense initial stability, remaining flat even when the wind freshens. However, with a relatively high displacement-to-length ratio for a multihull, it is not a "fly-a-hull" performance boat. Instead, it is a steady platform that performs best on a reach.

One of the most distinctive technical aspects of the Endeavourcat 34 is its propulsion system. Many units were equipped with a single 27-hp to 40-hp diesel engine linked to a steerable Sillette Sonic outdrive. This configuration allows the propeller to turn in tandem with the rudders, providing the vessel with exceptional maneuverability in tight marinas—a common "gotcha" for single-engine catamarans. Editorial reviews from the era, such as those found in Cruising World, often noted that while the boat’s windward performance is hampered by its shallow draft and wide hulls, its ability to maintain 6 to 7 knots under power or sail in moderate breezes makes it an ideal platform for the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) or Bahamas hopping.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Endeavourcat 34 is where the builder's monohull heritage and catamaran ambition merged. The layout is typically an "owner-version" configuration, which was revolutionary for a boat of this size. The main salon is located on the bridgedeck, featuring a large U-shaped settee and a panoramic view through massive wrap-around windows. This "galley-up" or "galley-down" choice varied by hull number, but the standard 34 often utilized the hulls for private sleeping quarters and a surprisingly large head with a separate shower stall.

Materials used were typical of 1990s American production: molded fiberglass liners finished with teak accents. The 15' 8" beam allows for a master suite that spans the width of the forward section, a feature rarely seen in monohulls under 45 feet. The boat was produced alongside siblings like the Endeavourcat 30—which shared the design DNA but felt significantly more cramped—and the Endeavourcat 34 Trawlercat, a power-only variant that utilized the same hull mold but replaced the rig with a larger engine and a modified deckhouse to cater to the burgeoning "Great Loop" market.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach an Endeavourcat 34 with a focus on the unique mechanical and structural elements of 1990s multihulls.

• Sillette Sonic Drive Maintenance: The steerable outdrive is a proprietary piece of hardware. The rubber bellows (which keep water out of the hull) and the internal leg gears require meticulous maintenance. If the bellows haven't been changed in the last five years, they are a primary failure point.
• Window Seals and Crazing: The 34 features exceptionally large acrylic windows. Over decades, the sealant can degrade, leading to leaks that damage the interior teak. Furthermore, the acrylic itself can "craze" or develop fine cracks from UV exposure, which may eventually require expensive replacement.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many Florida-built boats of this era, the Endeavourcat 34 uses a cored deck. High-stress areas around the mast step and the stanchion bases should be tested for moisture or delamination, which can occur if hardware was not re-bedded periodically.
• Rudder Bearings: Owners have occasionally reported play in the rudder stock. Because the rudders are linked to the steerable drive leg in some configurations, the linkage cables and bushings should be inspected for corrosion or "slop" that could affect steering precision.

Community & Resources

The Endeavourcat community is tightly knit, largely because the boats were built in relatively small numbers compared to French giants like Lagoon or Fountaine Pajot. The most prominent resource for technical support and original builder specifications is the Endeavour Owners Group, which maintains archives of original brochures and technical manuals for the 34-foot sailing and power models.

The Verdict

The Endeavourcat 34 is a "volume-first" cruiser that trades blistering speed for liveability and ease of use. It remains one of the most accessible entries into the catamaran market for those who want a stable, shallow-draft vessel for coastal exploration.

Pros:

• Extreme Stability: The wide beam ensures a flat sailing experience, making it an excellent choice for those prone to seasickness.
• Maneuverability: The steerable outdrive allows the boat to pivot in its own length, overcoming the traditional "single engine" catamaran handicap.
• Interior Volume: Offers living space comparable to much larger monohulls, featuring a genuine "owner's suite" layout.

Cons:

• Windward Performance: The shallow draft and aerodynamic drag of the large cabin house limit its ability to point high into the wind.
• Specialized Parts: The Sillette Sonic drive requires specific knowledge and parts that are not as ubiquitous as standard straight-shaft diesels.
• Aesthetic Aging: The heavy use of plexiglass and 90s-era fiberglass liners can make the interior feel dated compared to modern composite designs.