While small outboard engine-powered sport catamarans remain an integral part of Skater Powerboats’ current business, the Douglas, Mich.-based custom high-performance cat and V-bottom builder is “alive and well” with bigger-model builds according to national sales manager Tony Cutsuries. The 12 boats currently under construction at the Skater facility include 368, 388 and 438 catamaran models. There’s even a 46-footer in the mix.

A new Skater 438 catamaran will join this beauty built in 2017 this year. Photo courtesy/copyright Pete Boden/Shoot 2 Thrill Pix.

“We have a lot of stern-drive boats going right now,” Cutsuries said. “I wouldn’t say the outboard stuff has cooled off, but we have seen a push, which really picked up with sales in mid November, in our bigger boats.

“Maybe it’s our reputation for building bigger boats, maybe it’s a trend now,” he added. “I don’t know. I just know we have a lot of big boats, more than we’ve had in a little while, coming through the factory right now.”

In addition to the Skater 46—a relatively rare model—the company currently is building, the company has another deal for a 46-footer “almost done,” Cutsuries said.

“I can’t reveal just yet who that one is for,” he added.

Cutsuries said the company plans to exhibit a new Skater 388, as well as an exciting 318, at the Miami International Boat Show next month.

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