The Zapcat
Zapcat is developed from a prototype in South Africa in the 80s from the idea from two guys that wanted to drive down the 30 Km Tugela flode in an R.I.B. [Rigid Inflatable Boat] They soon become aware that an ordinary R.I.B couldn't make the harsh conditions. By developing the Zapcat Hull they created a catamaran that would run in just 10 cm deep water and this was also much quicker than the R.I.B.
From this prototype they developed Gemini. The boat is constructed so that it can be used in 4-5 meter high waves that are around the South African coast. The Gemini Zapcat is used for leisure driving and for surf rescue - lifesaving. This quality gives the CE approved Zapcat a capacity of five persons, all of whom when aboard are given an amazing feeling of security, unlike a mono hull inflatable. The unique fully inflatable catamaran tunnel hull design means the Zapcat is incredibly stable when afloat, whether stationary or at speed.
After a couple of years they started to race in S.A, Australia and New Zealand.
The competitions were held at the beaches, in any conditions - a true extreme sport.
2001 Zapcat was launched in Europe and Zapcat racing was created as a ONE MAKE CHAMPIONSHIP.
Zapcat is made by the manufacturer Gemini (www.gemini-marine.com) that also sell R.I.B. Gemini is known for its good fabric and construction. Zapcat has chosen to use Gemini and this hull due to three reasons:
1- the construction is well known and well proven.
2- to create the worlds largest one class design.
3- so that you don’t have to buy a new boat every season. The result is that you can use a used boat which makes the investment fairly economic.
