Many people are naturally drawn to symmetry. But in the chaos of nature, symmetry is not always the most elegant solution. Exhibit A is the new C107 from Aspen Power Catamarans, which not only uses asymmetric twin hulls but also asymmetric power—something Aspen says is unprecedented —to provide a smooth, quiet, and fuel-efficient ride.
Let’s start with those counterintuitive hulls. To achieve the general benefits of powered multihulls (stability, low drag, more space), Burlington-based Aspen first experimented with single-engine designs, making the starboard hull wider to fit the inboard propulsion system. Eventually, Aspen founder Larry Graf and his team designed and patented a completely new hull, the Power Proa, that eliminated the need for a keel and rudder by making precise hydrodynamic chine adjustments to channel water efficiently through the tunnel. The results reduced friction and compensated for the starboard engine torque to keep the vessel true without needing helm corrections.
For the current C107 model, Aspen got creative again by using two different outboard Yamaha gasoline engine sizes: 200 hp to starboard; 70 hp to port. Not to get too Einstein-y on the physics part, but the C107’s port hull, which is 35% narrower than the starboard one, reduces drag by 50% and overall vessel weight by 44%. These efficiencies can be maintained regardless of whether the outboards are running simultaneously or each on their own. At a cruising speed of 23 mph, the C107 has an estimated range of 236 miles.
Besides the high-tech hull, Aspen also focused on the most efficient use of space above. The open-air cockpit provides 69 square feet of space and includes two large lazarette storage holds in the deck floor, a small sink to port, a Corian fold-down countertop, two swing-out stools, and a mini-refrigerator by the aft bulkhead. Along the transom, facing forward, is a 96-quart Igloo cooler, fitted with a cushioned top as an extra seat. A swim platform at the stern, in between the outboards, features a recessed three-step ladder. When tilted up, the outboards allow for a shallow 22” draft for trolling.
Entering the salon, the galley is immediately to port, opposite a dinette table and two Ultra Leather-upholstered benches to seat up to four. The galley, with Burmese teak flooring, is equipped with a sink with a tile backsplash, a Force 10 two-burner propane stove and oven, and a Nova Kool refrigerator under the Bentley’s helm seat. Below the galley is a cleverly tucked away quarter berth; the dinette can also be converted into a berth for more guests.
The forward helm features joystick and bow-thruster controls, a stainless steel wheel, Garmin multi-function displays, and a 3” Ritchie compass. Starboard of the helm, a few stairs lead down to the master cabin, which features a king-size berth athwartship, two openable hatches to access the foredeck, and two storage compartments. Just aft to starboard is the separate, enclosed head with a shower hose attachment.
The hardtop above the helm includes two moon-roofs that open manually for ventilation and two solar panels to provide 360 watts of recharging power. Options are also available for a kayak/canoe storage rack on the roof, a cockpit sunshade, or a davit and support structure for an RIB tender over the stern.
Specs & Info
LOA 36’8” · Beam 10’0” · Min. Draft 1’10”
Tankage (Fuel/Fresh/Black)
80-130 gal. / 50 gal. / 30 gal.
Engines
Two Yamaha outboards,
70 HP & 200 HP
Contact
Aspen Power Catamarans
Burlington, WA
360.668.4347
info@aspenpowercatamarans.com
aspenpowercatamarans.com
