Our Boat | Makani Catamaran

History of Makani Catamaran

Makani’s history traces back to the 8,000 mile journey through the Panama Canal, up the coast of Central America, past Mexico, and finally to the Hawaiian Islands that was pioneered by Captain Jon Jepsen and his 3-man crew. You’ll also find the specifications Hawaii catamaran facts & specs about this unique vessel. Learn about its dimensions, guest capacity, and the make and model of its engines and propellers. Plus, read about the onboard amenities this ship offers, including a 32” HDTV flat screen, Bose surround system, DVD player, sunbathing nets and more!

The Makani began as a vision, transitioned into a conceptual plan, and emerged as a sophisticated sea vessel. With the help from a skilled investment group, including Tim Mardell, Judge Jim Campbell, Mike and Theresa Lopez, Rich Drummond, Andy Dahl, and Yumi Iseki, the construction of Makani Catamaran began in September 2004 in St. Croix, of the United States Virgin Islands. Captain Jon Jepson joined architect Dave Wallworth and Gold Coast Yachts where they built and designed Makani from start to finish. With top of the line equipment, luxurious amenities, and a passionate team behind the construction, it is easy to see why this is a $1.8 million yacht.

The mast, costing alone nearly $400,000, was constructed by Southern Spars, the leading mast builders in the industry, using carbon fiber. Once the project was completed in August of 2005, Captain Jon and his crew of three set sail for Honolulu from the Virgin Islands. During their 8,000 mile journey they passed through the Panama Canal, up the coast of Central America, heading northwest to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, then from there to the Hawaiian Islands. Makani arrived at her new home in Kewalo Basin, Slip F1, Honolulu, Hawaii on October 20, 2005. While docked here on Oahu, luxury catamaran cruising has become Makani’s main vocation.

Specs/Basic Info:

Length: 64 feet, Width: 32 feet,Displacement: 29,000 lbs
Passenger Capacity: 79 (with crew of 5)
Crew: Captain, 1st Mate, Bartender (additional crew for larger groups)
Built: Gold Coast Yachts, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Designer: Dave Wallworth / Jon Jepson
Construction Completed: August 2005
Arrived in Hawaii: October 2005
Vessel Material: Core Cell Foam / Epoxy / Carbon Fiber
Total Sail Area: 1,764 square feet
Sails: North Sails 3DL
Rotating Wing Mast: 70’ Carbon Fiber by Southern Spars of New Zealand
Standing Rigging: ARAMID Uni-Directional Kevlar
Engine/Propellers: Twin Yanmar 125 hp Turbo Diesel Engines/3 Blade Folding Propellers from Gori
Speed: 13 knots (under power) / Up to 30 knots (under sail)