BOAT REVISITED
INNOVATIVE IMPROVEMENTS
Seacat 800 — 2022 model by Durban Yamaha By Erwin Bursik
I
N N O VA T I O N , practical experience and a dedication to perfection are clearly evident in the 2022 model of the Seacat 800 produced by Ryan Hansen and Grantley Read. In line with the motor industry’s thinking of periodically modifying and improving popular models of motor vehicles, this concept is now finding its way into the realm of boat manufacture. Hence the updated version of the Seacat 800. I really enjoyed the ride, looks and performance of the original Seacat 800, Basjan, which I reviewed for the September/October 2020 issue of SKI-BOAT.As a result, when Ryan informed me that a number of modifications were being contemplated for the Seacat 800 going forward, I queried his and Grantley’s thinking and even voiced my opinion with regard to changing the actual hull design that I had found so efficient and comfortable at sea. My thinking soon changed. When I first saw the new and virtually completed Seacat in Ryan’s workshop I was impressed with the increased cabin size and configuration which was all I saw. My next sighting was when the new and finally completed 48 • SKI-BOAT January/February 2022
rig belonging to the brothers of Harding Boerder y in Hoedspruit arrived at Durban Watersports Club for final inspection and photographs. I was blown away just looking at this Seacat 800 nestling on the beach following her sea trials. It was then that I asked Ryan to itemise not only the modifications they had made but also, apart from the aesthetic enhancements, the practical onboard and at-sea advantages of their innovative improvements. To keep it all clear, I’m going to itemise these in point form accompanied by a photograph of each upgrade as well as Ryan’s reasoning behind the changes. 1.The most obvious of these can be seen in the main photograph of the Seacat 800 looking stunning with its extended and modified cabin. It was generally felt that additional protection needed to be provided and an additional 800mm was added to the existing model.That doesn’t sound like a lot, but it makes a huge difference to the aesthetics and provides shade and weather protection to those on board. The additional forward-facing air vents and large sliding side windows guarantee a far greater airflow within the main saloon.
