Performance Cruising Yachts is welcoming the exciting return of Catalina Yachts, following the announcement from C & T Composites, LLC that the iconic American brand will enter a new chapter of manufacturing, model development and customer support.
The announcement marks a significant moment for sailors around the world, and particularly for Australian cruising families who have long respected Catalina for its practical design, robust construction and honest approach to yacht ownership.
As the United States celebrates 250 years of American independence, Catalina Yachts is also entering a new era – one focused on bringing skilled American boatbuilders back together, restarting production in Largo, Florida, and carrying forward one of the most recognisable names in modern sailing.
American Built. Proven at Sea. Ready for Australia.
For more than five decades, Catalina Yachts has earned a loyal following by building sailing yachts that are approachable, dependable and designed for real owners.
Catalina has never been about fashion over function. The brand’s strength has always been its ability to deliver yachts that are safe, spacious, easy to sail and genuinely enjoyable to live aboard.
That philosophy is particularly relevant in Australia, where owners value practical offshore capability, comfortable cockpit layouts, generous interiors and yachts that can handle everything from relaxed harbour sailing to extended coastal cruising.
From Sydney Harbour to the Whitsundays, Pittwater, Moreton Bay, Port Phillip and Tasmania, Catalina’s return represents exciting news for Australian sailors looking for a trusted cruising yacht with authentic American heritage.
C & T Composites Leads the Next Chapter
C & T Composites, LLC will be led by CEO Patrick Turner, alongside Member John Chen, who brings extensive experience in multihull development, and Board Member Hiten Sonpal, whose background with iRobot and Rice Robotics will support the company’s strategic growth and operational direction. Importantly, former Catalina designers and engineers are also expected to return to assist with designs and development, helping ensure the next generation of Catalina yachts respects the heritage of the brand while moving confidently into the future.
C & T Composites has also confirmed that manufacturing will remain in Largo, Florida, preserving Catalina’s connection to American boatbuilding and the skilled people who understand these yachts best.
“We are honoured to have the opportunity to carry these brands forward,” said Patrick Turner, CEO of C & T Composites, LLC. “Catalina and True North have earned tremendous respect over many years, and our goal is to preserve that legacy while bringing back experienced people who know these boats, adding new talent, and building the next generation of Catalina and True North boats right here in America.”
A Welcome Announcement for Australian Sailors
Performance Cruising Yachts has already seen strong local interest in Catalina, particularly from sailors who appreciate straightforward ownership, comfortable cruising layouts and a yacht that is designed to be used often.
The Catalina 426, recently sailing on Sydney Harbour, is a perfect example of the brand’s enduring appeal. Spacious, practical and beautifully suited to family cruising, the 426 reflects what Catalina does so well – creating yachts that feel safe, comfortable and ready for adventure.
“Catalina has always stood for something very clear – honest, capable cruising yachts built for people who truly love sailing,” said Matt Hayes, Director of Performance Cruising Yachts. “For Australian owners, that matters. We need boats that can be enjoyed on a Sunday afternoon, but also trusted for proper coastal cruising. Seeing Catalina enter this new chapter with production continuing in America is genuinely exciting, and we look forward to supporting the brand here in Australia.”
Looking Ahead
C & T Composites has confirmed that further announcements will follow regarding production schedules, model plans, dealer programs, customer support initiatives and future developments across Catalina Yachts, True North Yachts and the newly announced Xplor Yachts adventure boat brand.
For Australian sailors, the message is clear: Catalina is back, and one of America’s most respected sailing brands is preparing for its next generation.
Performance Cruising Yachts looks forward to sharing further updates with Australian owners, sailors and prospective buyers as more information becomes available.
For more information, visit:
www.catalinayachts.com
candtcomposites.com
performancecruising.com.au
