French Cheetahs go forth and multiply
The presence of a Cheetah catamaran workboat on the French Atlantic coast for many years has led to a recent succession of orders for the Isle of Wight UK based builders.
The first French Cheetah, a 6.2m commercial fishing vessel delivered nearly two decades ago, is still going strong and had been both observed and admired by local mariner Michel Julin of Royan.
Following a visit to the Cheetah yard at Ventnor and a thorough discussion of his requirements, Monsieur Julin ordered a 9.2m Cheetah featuring a 2.5m long wheelhouse with a 500mm cabin overhang and two suspension seats for helmsman and navigator as well as starboard side seating with a folding chart table, sea toilet and galley.
Twin 250hp Honda outboards and twin 250 litre fuel tanks give the boat a range of approximately 250 nautical miles. The stainless steel rails and roof mast gantry were made to measure in-house and five layers copper coat antifoul will keep the barnacles and seaweed at bay.
Following its delivery voyage, Noden debuted at the Grand Pavois Boat Show in La Rochelle alongside the original 6.2m open style Cheetah. The Cheetah catamarans attracted significant interest and already further orders have been secured in France, including one for an 11.2m Cheetah which will work providing tourist trips.
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