Catalina Yachts, renowned for its half-century legacy in the maritime industry, has recently acquired the True North line of Downeast powerboats. This acquisition marks Catalina’s entry into a growing market segment and represents a significant evolution in their boat-building portfolio. The latest jewel in their crown is the True North 39 Outboard Express, a modern reimagining of a classic Downeast cruiser.
The True North 39 Outboard Express is a testament to Catalina’s commitment to blending tradition with modernity. The design team embarked on an ambitious project to transform a 20-year-old Downeast-style diesel inboard cruiser into a contemporary masterpiece, while retaining its timeless aesthetic and rugged performance.
From the onset, Catalina employed cutting-edge design tools like Rhino to meticulously craft the True North 39. The team started by converting old 2D drawings and photos into a precise 3D model. This model served as the foundation for numerous modifications, including a new hull, deck, pilothouse, and a completely reimagined interior. The integration of modern outboard engines was a pivotal shift, providing enhanced efficiency and speed.
Orca3D and Flamingo nxt were instrumental in the naval architecture and rendering processes. These tools allowed the design team to continuously refine the boat’s details, ensuring that every aspect met their high standards. The iterative design process was marked by countless revisions, each enhancing the vessel’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Collaboration played a crucial role in this project. Catalina partnered with industry experts such as Porta Products for engine mounting and Lewmar Lippert for glass and glazing. These collaborations ensured that custom parts manufactured globally would come together perfectly during assembly. Using Rhino across all partners facilitated precise manufacturing and assembly, resulting in a vessel with tight tolerances and exceptional quality.
The interior design phase was particularly meticulous. The team created full-scale mock-ups to validate the ergonomic flow and usability of the arrangements. This hands-on approach ensured that the final interior was not only visually appealing but also highly functional. The design was then shared with Bedard Yacht Design for offsite finalization and tooling.
Assembly of the True North 39 is currently underway at Catalina’s facility in Largo, Florida, with on-water testing scheduled for July. The boat is set to debut at the Newport International Boat Show and the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) this fall, where it is expected to make a significant impression.
The True North 39 Outboard Express encapsulates the rugged, timeless Downeast aesthetic while delivering modern performance and comfort. Its durable exterior and spacious, open-concept interior offer both functionality and luxury. The boat’s design includes direct water access and a “private beach” on the aft deck, features that enhance the boating experience.
As Catalina celebrates 50 years of crafting durable and reliable boats, the True North 39 Outboard Express stands as a beacon of its innovative spirit. This new addition to the Catalina family not only honors the legacy of True North Powerboats but also brings a new level of sophistication and performance to the market. The True North 39 promises to provide countless mariners with memorable adventures and the reliability that Catalina Yachts is known for.
