This 1988 78ft custom bluewater catamaran for sale in Puerto Rico is a proven offshore cruising yacht, extensively refit and ideal for Caribbean charter operations or luxury liveaboard sailing. Designed by the legendary multihull innovator Derek Kelsall and built on the Isle of Man using advanced foam-core composite construction.
Engineered for long-range ocean passage making, liveaboard comfort, and charter operations, she delivers a rare combination of performance, durability, and autonomy. Her offshore pedigree includes an impressive finish in the 1990 Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC), where she outpaced competitors by nearly two days.
Owned and meticulously upgraded and maintained since 2008 by two extremely knowledgeable USCG Master-level captains, this vessel has undergone extensive exterior and interior refits (2023–2026), making her a true turnkey bluewater cruising yacht or income-producing charter vessel.
Why “Cat’s Meow” Stands Out
If you are in the market for a large catamaran for sale under $1M, offering capabilities comparable to significantly newer vessels at a fraction of replacement cost, Cat’s Meow represents an incredible value opportunity.
Ideal For Buyers Searching
Investment & Charter Potential
With her 5-cabin, galley-down layout, system redundancy, and proven reliability, “Cat’s Meow” is well-suited for:
"Cat's Meow" is a compelling opportunity for buyers seeking a yacht that can generate revenue while supporting a luxury cruising lifestyle.
Recent Refit Highlights
2026
2025
2024
2023
Paint/ Finishes
Sails, Mast, Rigging, Canvas
Sails and Canvas
Mainmast & Masthead Electronics
Standing Rigging
Lifelines/ Stanchions
Canvas
Performance, Engineering, & Systems Summary
Tankage & Long-Range Capability
Fuel Tankage
Freshwater Tankage
Blackwater Tankage
Hydraulics
Marine Electronics, Navigation Controls, and Instruments
Fully enclosed helm station amidships with glass facing forward and a bimini top with sides over and around providing a panoramic view of the boat and the surrounding seas.
Helm Electronics
Port and Stbd Engine Instruments
NMEA Network
Shore Power, SSB, and Engine Rooms
Batteries/ Charging Systems
Chargers/ Inverters
Batteries
Both 12V and 24V battery banks are fitted with Battery Bank Management System (BBMS) to control Li battery charging. Individual Li batteries come with an internal battery management system (BMS).
HVAC System
Plumbing
Ground Tackle
Safety Equipment
Tender & Watersports Equipment Included in the Sale
Additional Items that Convey with the Sale
Known Service Needs
Exclusions
The sellers' non-boat-specific personal effects will not convey with the sale of the vessel.
Wrap up Summary
“Cat’s Meow” is a proven, extensively upgraded 78’ bluewater catamaran offering exceptional value, versatility, and capability.
Whether your goal is:
This amazing vessel delivers a rare combination of size, pedigree, and readiness at a highly competitive price point.
Contact Ben Ward at Ward Yacht Sales today for additional information or to schedule a confidential in-person showing.
Detailed Vessel Specs & Dimensions
Accommodations & Layout
The extensive interior refit (2006–2012) was designed for long-term liveaboard comfort and charter guest functionality, making her ideal for both private cruising and commercial use.
Galley/ Refrigeration
Cat’s Meow features an extensive galley with professional chef-quality appliances, including:
Deck/ Cockpit
Cockpit
Floor lazarette provides access to freshwater pumps, carbon block freshwater filters, washdown pump, emergency tiller, Fortress 125 anchor and rode, Glendinning CH2001 engine control electronics, and chilled water system circulation pumps.
Deck Bonnet/ Locker
Detailed Engine and Propulsion Specs
Engines located aft-most in each hull, accessible via large deck hatches. Engine rooms provide easy access to all sides of propulsion engines.
Alternators
Drive Shaft/ Propellers/Engine Room
Generators
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Details
ManufacturerKelsall
ModelManannan 78 Custom
Year (Build / Refit)1988
Length23.8m
Total Power330 hp
Beam10.7m
Specifications
Dimensions
Length23.8m
Max Draft2.7m
Beam10.7m
Hull
MaterialGRP
ShapeCatamaran
Accommodation
Guest Cabins5
Features
AIS
Autopilot
Compass
Depth Instrument
GPS
Plotter
Radar
Speed Instrument
VHF
Wind Instrument
Windlass
TV
WiFi
Hard Top
Propulsion
Engine 1
Engine MakeSabre Ford
Engine Model330 Turbo
Engine Hours6978
Engine TypeInboard
Drive TypeInboard V-Drive
Fuel TypeDiesel
Power330 hp
Year1988
Listing details on this page are provided by Ward Yacht Sales as marketing material. Please contact the broker directly for full details.