Great Loop Explorer
The Explorer series cats are the first “clean sheet of paper” design seen on the water in a very long time. Every step in the custom boat building process has been re-evaluated. The result is a vessel that is superior to any other of its size and type. The points highlighted below will give you an overview of the design features of the Explorers.
AeroCat Explorers Design: Almost all other cats are heavy semi-displacement boats, which means the Explorers are faster on less power, with much better fuel mileage than conventional cats. The result is a light weight, nimble vessel that handles challenging sea conditions with ease.
The sharp wave piercing bows and light weight reduce slamming in rough seas. During the ten year development and evolution of the Aero Cat hull we have had the privilege of demonstrating the performance of our boats to some of the most knowledgeable men and women in boating. To a person, they have all said “this is the best performing sea boat (for its size) that I have ever run.
This thoroughly proven hull is now available for recreational and commercial applications from 24'-40'.
The Great Loop Explorer shown in the gallery is a custom built vessel designed for the cruising couple.
This is a boat designed to maximize living space for two people. It has large separate head and shower compartments, it is built on one level, no climbing up on narrow gunwales to go forward for anchoring or line handling when passing through locks. It does not have an expensive diesel engine(s); instead it is propelled by quiet, smooth outboards that provide an easy 22-26 knot cruise speed.
Extraordinary safety and convenience: Explorers are available in a number of length/beam combinations. The 34 and 36x12.5 with a salon width of nine feet is specifically designed for the size slips commonly found along the Loop. This configuration allows for almost eighteen inches of width on the side decks, more than enough room to move quickly from one end of the boat to the other, with approximately thigh high freeboard for safety, plus an optional bow and side rail for additional security.
Floor plans: The floor plans shown in the specifications tab on our web site are representative of three different ways to layout the interior space. One has a spacious helm area for lots of electronics and charts, the settee forward models can be built with either two sliding side doors or one hinged front door. These plans are your starting point if you want to design your own interior. The cabin width will vary by the beam of the boat.
A unique galley: The standard galley is a an L shape with the short leg against the aft bulkhead. This leg is four feet long starting at the aft door jam and extending to the starboard aft corner of the salon, then forward six feet along the starboard side of the house. It contains a well thought out (here you can specify much of the galley equipment) arrangement of counter top, cabinets and appliances. The unusual part is the window on the aft bulkhead that aligns with the counter top. On nice days you open the window and pull up the small table hinged to the outside of the aft bulkhead for outside dining under the roof overhang, enclosed by an optional screened Sunbrella enclosure.
The salon is even more unique: Question: when cruising for extended periods of time which area of the boat is used the least? Answer: assuming a ratio of eight hours sleep to sixteen hours awake, the berth area is used the least. So why not use the space more efficiently? This Explorer model does not have a berth area, instead it incorporates a large settee with premium cushions that convert to a double bed. This arrangement makes every inch of space in the cabin available for day use. At night, the custom window coverings provide complete privacy.
Floor plans with conventional berths are available.
NMMA standards: All Aero Cat boats are fitted out with equipment that meets or exceeds NMMA standards. In addition all hoses, wires and engine controls are routed thru PVC conduit. We call this system “rigging tubes.” The tubes are permanently installed under the deck. They run to every likely spot that could require wires or hoses at the time of construction or at a later date. The rigging tubes make updating of electronics, appliances or even engines a breeze, years from now.
Maintenance: The absence of inboard engines and the inclusion of an access hatch in exactly the right place for the few pumps and batteries makes occasional maintenance simple and easy. Any real maintenance is limited to the outboards and generator. Both have long warrantees from the manufacturer and the generator has a large hatch allowing easy access.
Storage: You will find a lot of storage areas for long range cruising on the Explorer. Some adjustments to location and volume of storage areas are possible when ordering your boat. Also the salon roof is designed for an optional fly bridge or roof racks to secure all manner of storage boxes and water sports equipment. Any style safety rails for the roof are also optional. Ladders to the roof can be located at either the fore deck or aft deck
Pricing, Explorer Scout 36x12.5 as described above, is the “starter” model and includes everything you need to learn the basics of cruising. This is a fully found vessel with safety equipment, VHF radio and GPS/depth sounder, 100 gallons fuel, 70 gallons water, 35 gallons holding. Approximately $174,000 with twin 115hp ETEC, or Suzuki engines. There is nothing missing, just add fuel, food, ice and personal gear and you’re ready to go. The Scout weighs about 6500 pounds dry weight, and under 12’ air clearance.
Pricing, Great Loop Explorer 36x12.5 (as shown in photo gallery), plus Garmin chart plotter, 3kw generator, reverse cycle A/C, under counter electric refrigerator and freezer, shore power, (2) 8D house bank batteries, charger and inverter, flat screen TV, premium sound system with Sirius satellite, teak and holly sole, custom fabrics and window treatment. 200 gallon fuel, 100 gallon water and 35 gallon holding tanks. Tankage options are nearly unlimited within the space available under the deck. Approximately $275,000 with (2)200 hp ETEC or (2)200 hp Suzuki engines. The Loop model weighs less than 8500 pounds dry weight.
Snow Birds: For those who don’t have the time or desire to complete the Loop in one trip the Explorers are easily transported. The heaviest imaginable 36 foot Explorer will weigh less than 8500 pounds dry. With a trailer, (approx. $7,500) all you need is a wide load permit, a skilled driver and a one ton pick up truck you can bring the boat home between runs. Or more likely, a professional yacht delivery service will transport your boat on their trailer for about $3.50/mile if no escort cars are necessary, or about $6.25/mile with escorts. Most states allow wide loads up to 12’ without escorts, others (example: PA) go to 13’ w/o escorts. If ground transportation is useful to you we can build your boat with a 12’ beam and adjust the cabin accordingly.
Delivery times: Every boat is totally hand built, production is limited. As of April 2011 expected delivery times are about four-six months from date of deposit.
Other models The Explorer Series ranges from 27x8.5 to 40x14. Every hull is hand built allowing for various combinations of lengths and beams. Contact Terry Olsen at 814-464-5967 for further information.