Racing phenomenon about to gatecrash Australian shores

Racing phenomenon about to gatecrash Australian shores.

They’re overpowered, underweight and about to explode onto a waterway near you. Zapcat is the tightest turning, fastest inflatable boat on the market and is now being distributed in Australia by Sirocco Marine. Initial indications suggest Zapcat is destined to create a new highly affordable racing phenomenon that’s big on thrills and spills, but light on the wallet.

Originally designed as surf rescue boats, Zapcats have become a huge success in the UK, Europe and here in Australia as fields of speed- crazed enthusiasts of all ages compete in shore and lake based race circuits. At full speed, a Zapcat is capable of pulling cornering forces in excess of 2 G in tight turns, a manoeuvre that couldn’t be attempted in a conventional racing boat. The more psychotic racers have even pulled 3 G with 2 x 25 horsepower aboard and done the 0-80km/hr sprint in an eye-watering 3 seconds.

Powered by a 50 horsepower outboard, the inflatable catamaran style hull makes a Zapcat extremely stable. A 4.1 m. x 2.5 m. Zapcat can carry up to 5 adults, though it races with 2. The 25 litre fuel tank takes a Zapcat a long way, ensuring cheap running costs, even at full throttle.

They come in blue, white, yellow and turquoise but the hottest colour is red.

A hull weighs in a 75kg, allowing the boat to be deflated and carried in a typical ute or boot, with inflation and setting up taking 30-40 minutes. While a Zapcat is light to carry, the heavyweight duratex construction means that the only leaks you’ll be taking is when you lose your nerve.

Visit the stand at the 2009 Sydney International Boatshow where the Zapcat will be on display – Hall 5, Stand 501A