Catalina comeback

Catalina Yachts is entering a new era, with production set to resume in Florida under the stewardship of C & T Composites, and Performance Cruising Yachts welcoming the brand's revival.

Photography by Catalina Yachts

29 July 2026

Performance Cruising Yachts has welcomed the return of Catalina Yachts, following confirmation that the iconic American sailing brand will resume production under new ownership in Largo, Florida.

The revival follows an announcement by C & T Composites, LLC, which will oversee manufacturing, model development and customer support as Catalina enters a new chapter. Production will remain in Largo, preserving the brand’s longstanding connection to American boatbuilding.

Founded in 1970, Catalina has built a reputation for practical cruising yachts with dependable performance, spacious interiors and straightforward ownership. The brand has developed a loyal global following over more than five decades, with Australian sailors embracing its combination of offshore capability, comfortable layouts and family-friendly design.

Catalina yachts can be enjoyed on a Sunday afternoon, but also trusted for proper coastal cruising.

Performance Cruising Yachts said the return is particularly significant for the Australian market, where Catalina’s emphasis on practical cruising continues to resonate with owners.

Leading the new venture is C & T Composites CEO Patrick Turner, alongside Member John Chen, who brings experience in multihull development, and Board Member Hiten Sonpal, whose background includes iRobot and Rice Robotics. Former Catalina designers and engineers are also expected to return, supporting future model development while maintaining the brand’s heritage.

Manufacturing will remain in Largo, Florida, with C & T Composites planning to rebuild the workforce and continue production in the United States.

Commenting, Patrick Turner, CEO of C & T Composites, LLC said: “We are honoured to have the opportunity to carry these brands forward.

“Catalina and True North have earned tremendous respect over many years, and our goal is to preserve that legacy while bringing back experienced people who know these boats, adding new talent, and building the next generation of Catalina and True North boats right here in America.”

Cruising appeal, comfort and versatility have defined the Catalina brand for more than 50 years.

Performance Cruising Yachts has already reported strong local interest in Catalina, highlighting the Catalina 426, recently sailing on Sydney Harbour, as an example of the brand’s enduring appeal for Australian cruising families.

“Catalina has always stood for something very clear – honest, capable cruising yachts built for people who truly love sailing,” said Matt Hayes, Director of Performance Cruising Yachts.

“For Australian owners, that matters. We need boats that can be enjoyed on a Sunday afternoon, but also trusted for proper coastal cruising.

Seeing Catalina enter this new chapter with production continuing in America is genuinely exciting, and we look forward to supporting the brand here in Australia.”

Looking ahead, C & T Composites has confirmed further announcements will follow covering production schedules, future model plans, dealer programs, customer support initiatives and developments across Catalina Yachts, True North Yachts and the newly announced Xplor Yachts adventure boat brand.

For Australian sailors, Catalina’s return signals the revival of one of America’s most established cruising yacht builders, with Performance Cruising Yachts set to support the brand as additional details on future models and availability are released.