Last updated: 20 February 2011
We never had any doubts that a catamaran was the right decision but just to make sure, we decided to charter Alexis, an Admiral 38 which was based in the BVIs.
This was without doubt the deal clincher as we were both blown away with the Caribbean cruising life and the comfort and ease of handling the Admiral 38. We were fortunate enough to be cruising with Geoff and Bambi who had a huge depth of experience and were very free with their comments and advice. Above all they were able to share with us the things they would seek to change to make life just that bit more comfortable. If you are looking for a memorable cruising experience in the company of two charming South African’s then give them a call.
They say patience is a virtue but fortunately it’s not either of ours! Having decided to put back delivery to August 2008 we were desperately keen to feast our eyes on the new 40.
We had considered going to view Siyasinana at the Annanapolis Boat Show but reckon that it would be more beneficial to visit the new Admiral facilities in Atlantis. We had a truly fantastic week and everyone we met could not have been more helpful. The guys at the Admiral yard were truly fantastic and made us feel very special. We had long discussions with David and cleared the way ahead with the small number of changes/additions we wanted to make to the spec.
One of the highlights of the trip was that our visit coincided with visit of Angelo Lavranos from Lavranos Marine Design . Their mission is to deliver designs offering "Grace, Pace, Space" and if looks are anything to go by then this is what we can expect in the new Admiral 40. Go to ‘The Photos’ section to see the new factory and some of the 40 hulls under construction.
As well visiting the yard we were also able to meet the ‘soft furnishing’ guys and the all important Quantum Sail Loft. Wally from Bobwal Interior Furnishing was able to offer fantastic guidance on the all important soft furnishings from bunk mattresses to the use of hide to cover the seating in the saloon. We were able to make some selections alongside the various wood options offered by Admiral.
Our visit to the Quantum Sail Loft demonstrated, once again, the fantastic navigational skills of Ocean Dreams’ mate. Cutting through the industrial developments of Cape Town to arrive at their facility where we were shown every facet of the sail making process. We were somewhat taken aback by the various options on offer and decided that we needed more time before being able to reach a firm decision. (another excuse for a trip next year?!). We sadly had to say Au Revoir to all the guys in Cape Town after a great few days and look forward to our trip in June ‘08 to refresh our dreams and make our final choices.
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At the end of the first quarter in 2006, we found ourselves in Cape Town looking
around (what now seems a fairly small) Admiral Yard. The only guy available to give
us a guided tour was named Jeremy and he was the ‘Leccy’, everyone else was away
at the Miami Boat Show. Still, he obviously did a pretty decent job -
