Knysna 500SE Catamaran Review 2021 | Our Search For The Perfect Catamaran.

The equipment we use:
The Knysna 500SE catamaran is a Luxury, performance catamaran from one of South Africas premier, boutique builders. We love the Knysna for so many reasons, not least the price point for a luxury catamaran.
However the question we need to ask is "Is this the Perfect Catamaran?"
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[@sailingbronco9869]

As most of us will be looking at the used market, it would be extremely helpful if you could extend your outstanding reviews to pre-owned yachts at three price points, $350,000, $500,000, and $750,000. There are great examples available on other channels but that only covers a small fraction of the choices available. This series has set the standard for yacht reviews. Well Done Ruby Rose!

[@sailingrubyrose]

Thank you mate. Lovely comment

[@FeelItRising]

unless you have disposable income imo buying a cat new is an awfully bad idea. Let somebody else do the shake down sails, install more solar, batteries, washing machine, etc. And true very few of the audience is in the market for these 600,000 and up cats. It is very good info on the makes and differences though.

[@mrmrlee]

@@FeelItRising Also cats have far less ability to hold stores, and they listed greater storage capacity as a requirement in their next boat. A monohull, having much greater wetted surface area can store far more than a similarly sized cat.

[@jamielancaster01]

Sailing Bronco Also if you could do reviews on sports cars that would be helpful😉

[@brois841]

@@FeelItRising all good points, but keep in mind when you order new you can spec it out exactly the way you want. Buying a boat is already a compromise, buying used, you deal with availability and more compromises (you also need to budget for refurbishing/re-regging/updates/etc). When I was young (of meager means), I never believed in buying new cars - all that depreciation and I'm a penny pincher. However, as I've gotten older and more successful, I've bought 4 cars new as well as my race bike. I probably won't be buying a new cat, since the nominal depreciation is so high - but you never know. Honestly just learning about these new boats so when my kids are older in a few years I can buy them used, but with Knysna only producing 4-boats per year... it'll be hard to find one methinks?

[@luisroebuck4354]

you are absolutely right on your comment about the oven and the stove close to the stairs

[@sailingrubyrose]

Glad you agree mate.

[@mountaindweller9118]

Knysna 500SE was our favorite catamaran at the Annapolis boat show and serious contender for us. This would be an exceptionally safe and comfortable cat for a couple to do a circumnavigation. Curious as to why you didn't show the equipment room that houses genset and water maker? A very spacious area worth noting! Also surprised you only gave 7/10 for value for money. Not sure what is out there that is actually better value for money and I've been looking for over a year. Knysna only builds 4 boats a year, so the build experience is very personalized and they also include 2 weeks of commissioning and sea trials. Well done Knysna!

[@pred7949]

yea they were cooked with their rating on the value for money. there is literally nothing else out there that comes close to what this has to offer, you'll have to spend another $350k for anything to even be considered

[@johndonaldson5126]

When you stepped into the salon I was sold. I really like the woodwork and cushion designs. Not much to complain about with this boat.

[@capnrichard4967]

A few points relevant to this and other revues of yours. 1. Stipple-effect is used to cover a multitude of sins. 2. Large hatches over showers can provide good ventilation during periods of passing heavy rain when other hatches have to be closed. 3. Flush mounted hatches will have rainwater/seaspray trapped around them, it will fall into the boat when you open them, also the seal has to be perfect to prevent leaks, not good, especially over beds and upholstery.

[@SerbanOprescu]

The interior is exceptionally rich. Rich in space arrangement, rich in style, rich in materials, rich in everything.

[@clairepapadatos1116]

The Knysna 500 SE seems to be absolutely fitting to your spec! She's absolutely fudging brilliant, especially compared to the 'million plus' cats! Hope that Therysa's family in Australia are ok?! ✌😘😘❤

[@prankishsquire2663]

As a chef for 40 years, married to an Intensive Care RN, we always imagine we are cleaning up spills - tomato sauce, grease or vomit, never happen on a boat? Stipple wall surfaces really do not consider the poor slob with the scrub bucket? I'm sure stress lines and cracking show as well on smooth cleanable surfaces.

[@philipfreeman72]

You have the best catamaran selection vids. on youtube .

[@sailingrubyrose]

Ah thanks so much

[@Itsp3rsonal]

the problem with flush mount hatches is they are more likely to leak

[@jamesaron1967]

Wow, I did not expect such a nice interior. The finish not being top tier but I could probably live with that. Very good price and weight. This model has a lot going for it.

[@Huizerd]

I really like this boat, great value for money. Did I miss the life raft?

[@markdrexler3152]

Great review guys, we had not looked at this Cat before but after watching your review we have added it to our list of boats to look at for our new purchase later on this year..Cheers.

[@sailingrubyrose]

A pleasure mate

[@bobrose7900]

Another great review, I really look forward to these. The South African yards seem to have it licked. As was mentioned, there are a few comments regarding stress in the hull structures. I personally would like this as a specific point. The method and materials used in the construction and the absolute strength in the hulls is a big if not the biggest consideration for many people as well as long term durability. Some production boats, mono as well as cat, have the strength of a paper bag it seems. Ok if you want a flat in a marina but for challenging sailing conditions which we all plan against but invariably run into a handful of times each year, I'm talking it's ability to shake off 5m plus swells and 30kts plus winds when close hauled and slamming for 6 to 10 hours to get into a protected harbour. The South Africans experience this more than most I think.

[@glenpeters955]

Knysa have a reputation for building strong well designed catamarans. As you say it is amazing that there are not more of them on the water. As usual a very good honest review that is very helpfull to us ordinary individuals.

[@sailingrubyrose]

Cheers Glen

[@thylacine1962]

If Knysna put a Balance style versa helm on this unit it will a total winner.

[@cheribrown7661]

I loved the seating in the saloon; those high backed cushions looked substantial and comfy. I really like this one. I don't know why anyone who was hoping to spend less than 1M USD on a vessel wouldn't find this very appealing. One thing - did I miss the location of the liferaft? Nick usually points that out...

[@6800891]

Yall are like a couple of attractive movie stars talking about your latest film. Could watch and listen to you all day!!

[@steenkigerrider5340]

My guess is that you are tempted in buying this boat. I would press the manufacturer for a 2 owners hull layout and then sacrificing the forward section of one of the hulls to serve as a dedicated utility compartment. Your comment that every catamaran suffers stress cracks causes enough discomforting thoughts for me to eliminate any inclination switching to a multi hull and neurotically start hunting for the first appearing cracks. Haste to add that this is not meant as criticism towards anyone who owns a catamaran or intents to acquire one. :)

[@englishmaninfrance661]

Talking of stress fractures , Sailing Zingaro just broke 1 of her hulls off. Great review of a lovely boat.

[@Chris.Tustain]

Wow, do you have a link to that, all I could find was this appears to be a home build wooden cat!!!!

[@RexWaldron]

Your reviews always make it clear where the compromises lie and that includes the top price point boats. For me, this boat seems to have less in terms of compromise than most of the others and at that price, it must be a front runner. One thing I wasn't too keen on was the engine being located underneath one of the bunks. Great review as always and smiling at the thought of Nick asking Terysa to talk ventilation at 3am:)

[@squalloogal]

Thanks for the great review guys. I think you’re incredibly fair handed with these videos, which is probably why others are trying to tear you down. These reviews are definitely impacting future markets. Your series is the most informative on the net and an incredible resource. So thank you so much. Truly. Can’t wait to see what direction you take for yourselves.

[@edrosenberger6947]

I believe you two are doing a great and honest review job.....thank you for that!! I also really like this boat but I am disappointed with the engine access and the poor bed making access as well.

[@circumnavigation9386]

With its (old) Hull and bow design, it has a short waterline length and is comparable in terms of space and speed with a 46feet production cat.

[@jamesaron1967]

Yes, plus the additional reserve displacement of the standard ship bow will probably mean more hobby-horsing compared to a plumb or reverse bow design, is my expectation in rougher seas.

[@cstyma]

You mentioned the dishwasher in this video. A while back I watched a review on a countertop dishwasher. Amazingly, it actually worked like the regular dishwasher (or at least that's what the video showed). Now all I did was watch one review so I'm no expert but if that is all it needs you can order one on amazon.

[@maldwindrummond6158]

One more positive about dealing directly with the manufacturer is that you are not paying the 20 to 30% markup!

[@sailingrubyrose]

Absolutely mate

[@BigBensBoatBrokerage]

@@sailingrubyrose Dealers only earn about 5% gross sale price on new builds. Not sure how you got that number.

[@michaelmorgan3415]

@@BigBensBoatBrokerage Plus,Plus,Plus.........

[@TheRealSasquatch]

Loved the wide side decks, don't like the curved sofas. Engines looked a little cramped. What was the "engineering" section like - water maker, electrical installation, genset placement etc? Happy new year.

[@soving]

Thank you for the excellent reviews. It's clear you out a ton of work into these. Naration, video, editing is all pro. Cheers.

[@martinbuinicki1056]

For me, one of your most valuable presentations as I was unfamiliar with Knysna to more of an extent than any of the others.

[@robweiss748]

Interior volume wise it’s comparable to a Leopard 45 or Lagoon 46 and it’s price point reflects that. But a strong contender for sure. Being able to customize your interior and the dedicated factory support counts for a lot. Thanks again for another great review.

[@CalBru]

I've been waiting to see what you thought, particularly of the helm station. Unless I missed it (watched on phone) I don't think you showed the mechanical room, which is quite spacious. Was pleased you mentioned the lithium batteries at the end. Pricing seems to be about $100K higher than what I last saw. Great review as always, thank you! And a Happy New Year!

[@mikemendes7598]

The master berth looked really small for two adults. I assume that can be remedied via their customization, but that bed wouldn't fly with my spouse! In your summary negatives you missed the "on the day" comment about limited access to the engines. After seeing poor Keith on Zatara try and get around his centrally located engines, I know it's a real problem. The aft engine placement has it's own negatives, (Exposure, engines not in the best position, weight wise, etc.) but access isn't one of them. It would seem a tough choice. Almost every wall in America has texture! But it just doesn't "look right" on a boat for some reason. Love watching you guys and I am slowly making my way through your old videos and adventures. I also enjoy your obvious chemistry and love for each other.

[@Grimmiest]

I am close to moving on this Cat; thank you so much for your effort.

[@Grimmiest]

Guys if you read this I have a brief question. You have been quite helpful as I begin on this adventure. The question is about boutique builders. Is there an increase chance in faults when being built for you brand new; or the opposite when compared to mass production(obvious production cats)? I heard one guy on youtube saying watch out for smaller builders they can bite you with design flaws. I am figuring he is likely full of it, but I wonder your thoughts.

[@mfaul]

Great review Nick & Teresa. The one thing that I'm hung up on this boat is the lack of at least one walkaround berth. Its a pretty petty thing really, but I hate not being able to make my bed from the sides. Total nit-pick on my part.

[@sailingrubyrose]

We agree. 😊

[@hansk.4482]

First of all, Happy New Year. I hope and wish the best for the both of with fair winds!! As for this review, I agree with most of what you said. One thing I think is that all the South African boats represent good quality for the money. Having said that, (except maybe for the Leopards), I think the designs look dated. Maverick, Majestic, Xquist, and the Knysna all look as if they are old designs that have been given the 100th update. This maybe this is one of the reasons they can still produce relatively competitively. Not fond of the Dinghy retrieval system. My two cents. And rounded settees, I agree Terysa, look nice but are impractical. Cheers to the both of you.

[@peterstarkey1360]

Hello again , Keep doing what your doing..... SMART Manufacturers will use these reviews to vastly improve what there offering & l agree having walls all wrinkle finish.....NO....BUT when l was building mine l did run a 100mm full gloss wrinkle strip throu out , at the Base of the walls (kick strip) to protect the fully painted interior. Its easy to clean, tough & looks good...(filleting & gloss painting the interior does take for ever thou but worth it) cheers.... luv what your doing

[@HeadCannonPrime]

I agree, this is one of the prettiest boats on the exterior. I like the look of the interior too, but something about the saloon felt cramped for me compared to others I have seen. And I would want a forward Nav Station. No use for the mid ship vanity either, I would prefer hidden daggerboards. And I also agree, that cooktop next to stairs is a no-no in my book. I'm also not a fan of stippled walls, but knocking off $200-500k from the high end Cats, yeah I could live with that. Having been an RV camper for 40 years, I've learned that there is no such thing as the "perfect" camper/boat/house etc. if you have any kind of budget.

[@fudogwhisperer3590]

Stipple effect is a common finish on houses in the U.S. I think it appeals to the American market. I personally like it and have it in my house.

[@sailingrubyrose]

fair point and well made mate

[@robinhilliard]

To my eye a plumb stem (e.g Seawind 1600) would really make it look more modern (and give a foot or two extra at the waterline). Otherwise very impressive.

[@mrpanrucker3754]

Great review! Best Cat so far, by far, for price! F Pajot was the worst Cat... think DelBoy sorted the steering on that one!

[@JS-wl3gi]

Commentary is outstanding, cannot wait until to see you two aboard one of these.

[@bayanicustodio3998]

Love the reviews so far, so keep going. After watching a couple trying to outfit their 50 ft. Production cat I believe this boat has it with everything already included. 👍🙂

[@bartwesp4303]

and who wouldn't want that... a variant on the suggestion about the used market is to derive an anticipated capital cost based on the resale value of similar boats by the same manufacturer. Also, a neat video idea would be to go through all of the reviews you have done and compile a video of your favorite innovations you have come accross. One of the reasons I go to the boat show is to look at innovations and leverage these for ideas on my own and my customer's boats.

[@webheadusa9377]

The engine bay seemed small - access to the engine is paramount. No info on base-price electrical specs. What are the sails that are included in the base price? _What caught my eye was the sign at the helm (at 0.21 seconds) with the boat name and the military alphabet spelling of the name, call sign, and maybe the boat registration number - excellent safety feature yet so simple. ID the boat during times of stress._ I also do not recall a look at frig & freezer, single or double sink, and storage in the saloon/galley. Or a look at the navigation equipment at the helm. I am not a sailor, am not in the market for a boat, yet I look forward to your walkthroughs - you teach me! You two are best at this, yet my sense is that you were rushed to get through this survey. :¬) Webhead USA

[@graemedernbach6618]

Nick and Theresa,I think you guys are on the money with this one.Great videos,thank you and look foreward to more footage.

[@dharwood2727]

Not sure I would ever be content sleeping on top of a diesel engine, regardless of "insulation!"

[@edanoestreich8976]

Exactly my thought as well. Sleeping on top of your engine seems rather annoying. I’d rather have them aft.

[@Cody_aft]

@@edanoestreich8976 Either that or mid for shaft drives.

[@teddybear2840]

How often would the engines be running?

[@charonstyxferryman]

Quote : "Not sure I would ever be content sleeping on top of a diesel engine, regardless of "insulation!"" Maybe good for passengers you wish they would wish to leave the boat at the next port

[@dharwood2727]

@@charonstyxferryman 🤣😂🤣 Indeed!🤓

[@davidmiller2179]

Terysa I can only hope your family is safe and well in Australia.

[@sailingrubyrose]

Thankyou David. My family aren’t anywhere near the affected areas. But I think it’s safe to say that all Australians are heartbroken and shocked and dreading what’s still to come.

[@pain_weaver]

@@sailingrubyrose pardon me for being uninformed. What is going on there?

[@livs1520]

@@pain_weaver Australia is experiencing extreme mass fires which have been burning since September. The fires have soared through kilometers and kilometers of towns and bush land killing approx half a billion wildlife and around 10 people with many more sadly missing. Everyone here is completely heartbroken and devastated and the end is no where near sight.

[@tomd.3082]

Next boat review video, we're going to play a drinking game. Every time Terysa says "ventilation" you have to do a shot of liquor. Last one standing at the end of the video wins. All joking aside, I could listen to Nick and Terysa all day talk about what they like and don't like on a boat.

[@mentonish]

I love your reviews but its like choosing a car you have never driven.

[@HandyMan657]

I've been a fan of the Knysna cats for quite some time now. Thanks much for a great walkthrough and review. Cheers. p.s. I miss Tech Tuesdays.

[@GypzyJack]

Hi, guys. Great reviews. Just read your bio and see that we share similar aspirations, though mine goes back 40 years, got scuttled--'scuse the pun--by career opportunity out of left-field 37 years ago, and is back on my agenda again. On the subject of your reviews, and particularly pertinent to this boat given its price advantage, is the subject of performance, and the compromises which are inherent to the differences between racing, coastal cruising, and blue-water global sailing, e.g. the traditional argument, stern drive versus centre cockpit, and in Tyresa's case her island beds are always going to be part of the more complex equation of length & beam, storage space, tonnage, sail area, and speed upwind, not to mention her island beds again. These compromises are a conundrum with which I still grapple in my mind 40 years on, but applying the KISS principle to it, if I was conservative and limiting my sailing to coastal Oz and maybe a trip into SE Asia or very carefully-selected seasonal forays into the western Pacific, and funds were not an issue, the X5 would be a no-brainer. However, given that a global blue-water live aboard sailer is required to do two things, 'cruise' and 'travel', i.e. island-hop and trans-ocean respectively, the latter as safely and efficiently as is possible, the no-brainer is the Seawind 1600. The Knysna 500SE appears to be, given the missing island bed configuration clue and sans a specific performance spec from Nick, a compromise between the X5 and the Seawind, particularly from a price point perspective For me, these compromises are exacerbated by additional storage demands from a couple of Malibu boards, a wave ski, a 2-seater kayak, scuba gear and the accessories to match. Do you guys know where there is an old 70-foot 3-master for sale? *chuckling*

[@GypzyJack]

I might add that Tyresa's ventilation bent is quite reasonable considering that probably 80% of world cruising is spent between 0-35 degree latitudes dictated by the seasons, and notwithstanding the availability of air-conditioning, having enjoyed travelling in a new motorhome with all the mod-cons in Oz for the last 10 years, energy consumption is ALWAYS closely monitored, and is obtained at a cost of one resource or another.

[@GTFOplan]

Thanks for another great video! We are shopping for our next boat to sail the world. Ventilation and performance are top priorities for us, after blue water safety. We know you’d choose the Seawind over the Knysna and we can see why but the 1600 is at least $200k more. Have you considered the Seawind 1260?

[@sailingrubyrose]

Hey mate. We have reviewed the 1260 and it’s the next review out. Amazing boat

[@petradegraaff1210]

So yess looking forward to seeing your faces a bit more often but hoping to be seeing you sailing your new boat soon then 😊

[@yonekoBByeah]

I subscribed to your channel just days ago and I am already addicted to it... watching from Brissy

[@sailingrubyrose]

Awesome! Welcome mate. Hope the smoke isn’t getting to you up there.

[@davidwebber6956]

Great video, interesting boat . it would be amazingly useful if, when you publish your top 10 boats you could estimate the residual value after say 5 years ? Depreciation is probably the largest single cost of ownership. ! Well done guys .

[@mountaindweller9118]

IMO-The resale of this boat will be higher than that of a comparable production cat. Currently, there is only 1used Knysna 500 listed for sale on Yacht World. Asking $745K for a 2014- 4 cabin version. As only 4 are built per year, there are very few available on the supply side. Cheers!

[@davidwebber6956]

@@mountaindweller9118 Thanks for that info. Based on the quoting sale price that seems like a depreciation of $200,000 over 5 years / $40,000 pa which is useful to know. Many thanks .

[@timoftheboat]

Excellent point on individual dealers having variance on quality of service.

[@ericalarsen9175]

I always keep a close eye on your channel with baited breath anticipating the Seawind 1260 review! She is the top contender on our list and we’d love to hear your feedback. Sadly, however, I don’t have the option for a notification bell on your channel. It might be something to look into if others are experiencing the same issue.

[@sailingrubyrose]

Your wish is our command 🤣. The 1260 is the next in the series. It will be out on the 16th of January (or the 9th if you’re a Patron).

[@ericalarsen9175]

Sailing Yacht Ruby Rose You are wonderful - I’m SOO looking forward to it! We’re very grateful for your quality reviews and all of the effort that you put into the content that we receive! There is truly nothing like this review series on the market and it is so very needed. It makes me ever so grateful to exist in a world where we can all benefit from the efforts of such wonderful people as yourselves. 🙏🏼

[@philipfreeman72]

Having lived in concrete houses I like sound reduction .

[@markc1491]

Hi guys, Thanks for a nice video on a wonderful looking boat and I'm just catching up with them now. One question I have though, what is the overall storage like on this boat? I assume its good as its a 50' foot boat and its never been mentioned in the negative but I cant seem to find a reference to it in any media I've looked at. keep safe in these odd times.

[@geoff850]

Curved sofas went out years ago. The toilet blocks access to the shower, limited engine room space. Overall though, a good boat, just not my cup of tea- would want dagger boards for that price.

[@pvonr4646]

Check out the OC50 (HH50) that could be a interesting boat for you

[@Sawasdeekat]

No Comparison really.. HH50 is probably twice the price of this.

[@jamesaron1967]

The OC50, the cheaper of the two mentioned, is ~ $1.2M. Fantastic model and company, probably my current favorite manufacturer, but how is it comparable price-wise to the Knysna 500SE??

[@56Spookdog]

Being from Northern California (Brisbane Ca.j my thoughts are with Australia. Beautiful boat and review.

[@sailingrubyrose]

Thanks bill. Happy New year

[@bubbagail7450]

Close second to the Seawind. Nice boat.

[@SerbanOprescu]

My feelings exactly. It will be a tough choice between two very balanced boats.

[@dennissnelling2870]

As always, we appreciate your reviews - thank you! How would you compare the Knysna 500SE to the Seawind 1600?

[@sailingrubyrose]

Oh we’d take the Seawind any day

[@larryboles629]

Coffee maker or nav station......what decisions one is faced with..........HAY!!! move the coffee maker to the galley!! For a bit I did not think I would have a nav station.......... I love your reviews and your rating system. Thanks

[@bscott3211]

Sounds like this boat is definitely on your short list!

[@AliasJimWirth]

How is the life raft situation on this boat? The stipple finish reminds me of a really cheap (as in crappy) apartment bathroom in the states.

[@ZeLogicnator5k]

"It will be mine...oh yes...it will be mine"

[@markcotgrove2708]

Hi Guys, as usual a great review. I like your format and its structure much more than the random walkthroughs that other channels do, it gives a much clearer way of evaluating different boats, well done!! (not convinced by the music though... 😉) We will be buying a boat in summer 2021 to live aboard (start in the Med, then Atlantic/Caribbean followed by the Pacific) and will buy second hand for various reasons. I like Knysna but I think that, even if it was in budget, 50ft is too big for us and am very interested by the 440 and 480, previous Knysna versions. Do you have any info about those models or know of anyone that has? The 500 seems great quality but, given their limited production runs, I wonder whether the earlier boats are of similar quality or whether what you now see in the 500 is the learning from mistakes made on the earlier boats...? Any info gratefully appreciated 👍

[@johnsonrob]

I just click the like button before I've even seen your videos now - they're all excellent!

[@andrewlabat9963]

Yep, the dimpleing finish, latuce work, horizontal slats would look nicer and cleaner, and raised hatches could go, that and the interior volume seems smaller than all the others in this class, but customizing means buy, buy to a couple of those neg.. didn't see a dedicated forward lounging area neither..

[@DE1049]

A truly comprehensive and informative review. Would this boat cause Nick to rethink his "Noone would ever need a 50' boat" opinion?

[@dougallen4675]

8/10 for a stipple paint finish in small areas and the louvered cabinets is harsh...add 2 points and see where she resides in your ranking.

[@larryfisher2633]

This boat is beautiful! The styling the money is excellent. I hated the stippling , isn't my choice either. Was that a life raft I saw on the boat deck?

[@bryonensminger7462]

On the helming area you say it has good visibility but if also looks fairly Inclosed as well

[@gcrme55]

Your the greatest much love Before you release your top ten could you please recut those videos adding more content only because your opinions are so insightfully charming

[@rothgartheviking858]

i like this boat.

[@simonhantler8062]

Lattice and stipple is so old fashioned. Easy to change. Good yacht overall and a bargain compared to Antares. Shaft drive?

[@brianklakring5652]

I hope your comparison to a Jaguar stops at the name recognition as Jaguars are known for maintenance issues and time spent in the shop. Also just to follow on a few others you made no.mentionnof life raft placement. What are your thoughts on an auto deploy raft placed on the bow vs one placed on the stern. I know there is one school of thought that most of the weight in a cat is to the stern so in the unfortunate (and unlikely event if sailed properly) time of a capsize would it be better to have it up front where the underside of the boat may be floating higher in the water. Also having the engines under the berths could possibly be a pain. Having to turn your room upside down for your me maintenance and daily checks although with the AC running it could make for a more comfortable environment to conduct such maintenance.

[@denvg]

Thanks for the nice vids , and wishing you a happy new year.

[@pmnmd62]

Great review, thanks!

[@hardmtnbiker]

We are looking for a Catamaran, have no experience sailing, limited experience boating but want to travel the Philippines and have something comfortable and safe to sail and cruise calm waters. We have a few beach properties that we can anchor and perhaps build a dry dock on one of the properties.

[@LoanwordEggcorn]

Thanks for the review! Style is highly subjective, but I didn't like the colors, materials, shapes, design of the interior. I'm not sure it would have been stylish, modern or fresh looking 40 years ago. Did like the helm position. Exterior is ok aside from the non-flush hatches. A stippled finish means that some flaws will be hidden. It's probably very difficult to clean effectively. Some of the production cats are much better looking and probably better supported simply due to production volume and dealer networks. Due to volumes, a production boat generally seems a much better value.

[@vanekert]

Would love to see you review the Mumby Cyber 48....

[@davidvanniekerk3813]

Dankie/ Merci / Thanx for a great video. You did not say the max. speed of Knysna 500SE.

[@jerryvanderwier2310]

Nit picking or Nick picking. LOL Breezes through the bedrooom. Lolllllllllll

[@michaeldenicola6725]

Thanks for sharing, on other reviews you talked about steering like the issue for the FP how is it on the Knysna.

[@dahveed284]

Never heard of this boat. Nice review.

[@RyanIngleton]

Love your videos guys. You have a new subscriber in me. Keep up the great work 👍

[@garethellis5433]

Were the winches in the helm station as high as they looked? I'd have thought they could be awkward if you were on the short side

[@friendofrosto]

You do a top notch investigation on your subject cats.

[@johnwoodyear-smith7067]

Love your reviews. It would be great to know your heights to get some perspective when you are doing the walk through.

[@peterpawlak8418]

I'm surprised nobody has commented on the lack of side deck access from the helm. When touring this cat at Annapolis, my wife and I both noticed that you can't easily get to the starboard hull deck from the helm station. Instead, you must go down to the cockpit and walk back around. This seems like a real detriment to docking for a sailing couple.

[@richardhill3035]

Yep agreed. It’s something that seems really important with limited crew and would potentially stop me choosing this one.

[@user-cr7zn7tj9q]

You are super!!! Happy New Year!!!

[@sailingrubyrose]

Happy New Year my friend

[@BuzzSargent]

This is one of the few times you did not comment on the placement of the life raft? And you did not mention what type drive this boat uses. Do most new boats have a camera up on top of the mast? I would think that could be very inexpensive now. Happy Trails

[@srqlisa7881]

I can see if you going from a monohull to a Catarmaran this would be a good starter boat. After a couple of years you will figure out what does and does not work, sell and then find/design your real dream boat. I'm still enjoying these reviews. Happy New Years to you both and enjoy. : ) peace

[@FeelItRising]

1,000,000 dollar starter boat? no

[@srqlisa7881]

@@FeelItRising Starter as in first Catarmaran. : ) peace

[@ladykay8]

I would say that in the 1M+ category, you are getting into the range where the owner may be living aboard, but they tend to have a paid crew, which changes layout and what you consider in features. Other people have mentioned ability to get to the water maker etc... but I would ask this well.... How easy is it to get replacement parts if your watermaker goes out? How easy it to do the repairs yourself... how fiddly is it? Are they using a commonly available watermaker, (or some other bit of equipment) or is it specially made for them? How much maneuvering do you have to do to get to these issues? If this is going to be your house, I would say this is pretty critical stuff.

[@abbbee8918]

Here are some negatives. Cooker location (possibly not that easy to relocate), engine access, lack of nav. station, galley doesn't communicate with helm (no line of sight) or with the cockpit very well, no opening side windows, routing of ropes to the helm (almost too single handed and across the roof trip hazard), South African styling, lack of hand rails, raised hatches etc...

[@donr416]

Watermaker included.

[@Readerb86g]

Great analysis and presentation.