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On 10 October 2019, while at the United States Sailboat Show in Annapolis, the Knysna Yacht Company’s, Knysna 500SE, was nominated for the 2020 Multihull of the year.
The Knysna Yacht Company, established in 2002, first began manufacturing custom-designed sailing catamaran from their boatyard based in Knysna, South Africa. The company has successfully launched over 51 yachts which are tried and tested in some of the world’s most challenging sea conditions, in Knysna, which is famed for the dangerous entrance to the Lagoon known as the Knysna Heads, and is situated on the South Coast of Africa on the Indian Ocean.
The Knysna 500SE model is a sporty and sleek 50-foot sailing catamaran with an arresting profile, complete with high-quality workmanship and interior finishes. It is the ultimate comfort, luxury and performance cruising catamaran. It was designed by award-winning naval architect Angelo Lavranos and it comes fully equipped as a ‘liveaboard’ with practical fitted equipment.
The Multihull of The Year is organized jointly by Multicoques Magazine and Multihulls World, 2020 is in the third year of elections. Thousands of individuals vote for the best multihull each year. Every year, the list of nominees are announced on the first day of the Annapolis Boat Shows. The Jury of Multihulls World and Multicoques Mag, as well as the International Multihull Show, come together to select the 2020 nominees. 2020’s nominees boast an impressive selection of international models.
What makes the Knysna 500SE truly unique is the yacht’s interior is completely customizable and the internal layout is entirely at the clients’ preference. In addition, the configuration of the cockpit area is designed to protect the captain from the elements & is well-ventilated. The saloon and galley is an upmarket affair, from the custom marine floorboards to the elegant suede-covered roof panels which complement the LED lighting, flat-screen TV, surround sound system and air-conditioning, completing this vibrant and comfortable social area. A raised saloon floor ensures beautiful views and the rear bulkhead sliding door opens entirely to ensure a free flow from the cockpit to the saloon.
The process of nomination includes initial votes from journalists and organizers of the International Multihull Boat Show who nominate 16 multihulls, divided into four categories: under 40 feet, 40 to 55 feet, over 55 feet and Power Cat. In order to be nominated, the boats need to meet some simple criteria: they must have two or three hulls (or more) and must have been launched between the last Multihull Boat Show, in April 2019, and the upcoming one.
Multihull enthusiasts will get to vote for their favourite catamaran or trimaran. Voting opens soon and is a simple process, visit the website and cast your vote: www.multihulloftheyear.com.
If you’re interested in learning about the Knysna 500SE please contact us directly.
