Jan Cluistra, Sailing SA, August 2004

South African multihull manufacturers are riding the crest of a wave as locally built boats are currently very sought after overseas. There are a number of reasons. Firstly our boats are perceived to be substantially stronger than European built boats and are proving to be good value for money. In addition, South African boat yards tend to be smaller and are generally more flexible and accommodating with regards to their client's unique requirements.

The Admiral 38 Lavranos design was first launched as the Nosy Be 36. David Bird, the CEO of Admiral Yacht Manufacturers (Pty) Ltd., recognised the potential and purchased the moulds in 1998. After extensive remodeling David and Angelo Lavranos produced the Admiral 38 as we know it today. However, the changes did not stop there, but have continued with each successive boat being launched.

I was very enthusiastic to see the improvements that had been incorporated into their latest boat as I had sailed an earlier version some 7 000 nautical miles from Cape Town to Miami. The Admiral 38 is manufactured in two versions, the standard four cabin version or with a large owner's side bathroom. It's also worthy to note that Admiral Yachts customize their boats to meet the full requirements of the individual clients.

The first impression upon approaching an Admiral is its strong lines and balanced proportions. The Admiral certainly looks the part with wide strong flowing lines. The main saloon has a spectacular panoramic view and was stylishly fitted out with beech trim and finished in hi-gloss ripple enamel. Access to and from the cockpit is via a double lockable sliding door. Adequate ventilation is provided through four hatches and 12 port lights. The fixed windows have shade covers to dampen the heat build up. The spacious beech saloon table and wine rack pedestal can accommodate seven diners in luxury and elegance.

Floors are a practical beech laminate, which are easy to keep clean with a damp cloth, and looks like real wood without the maintenance. The galley is a convenient U-shape, with Surinno counter tops that include a double stainless steel sink with fresh hot/cold pressurised water and a three burner gas hob, with a large oven/grill. Refrigeration consists of a front loading 115 litre 12V fridge and a separate top loading freezer/fridge unit with a 70 litre capacity. Adequate storage space and a stainless steel counter top refuse bin are also located in the galley area. The galley looks enticing enough to attempt even a non-cook, like myself.

The spacious navigation station backs up against the helm, and sports a big chart table with ample storage.

The electronics include: ? Icom VHF M402 DSC with a command ?mike' at the helm
? Sound System/CD player combo with 2 internal and 2 external waterproof speakers
? Icom M802 SSB with auto tuner
? BEP electrical back lit breaker panel

Forward we have a large three-quarter bunk with good ventilation through a deck hatch and two portholes. Ample storage and hanging cupboards are provided. All the cupboards have lattice doors that supply excellent ventilation, whilst maintaining great aesthetic value.

The main aft cabin supports a large king size bunk, good storage space, reading lights, and is well ventilated through three port holes. While underway they will need to be used with caution. The second aft cabin is similar but with a queen size bunk. Amidships there are two heads with Surrino basins, hot/cold pressure water, shower sumps, and electric toilets that pump into holding tanks.

There is porthole ventilation which is more than adequate while living aboard or making passage. The electrical system is driven by six sealed batteries +/- 630 a/h in total. 110V is available through a Xantrax inverter producing 2000w and capable of charging batteries at 100a/h. Provision is made for shore power and there are two 100w solar panels mounted on the sun roof. The attractive electrical panel which is fitted next to the chart table has 32 switches that control all the AC and DC appliances. The battery state is at all times monitored by an integrated management system.

There is lighting throughout, including night lights in the saloon at the stairs and on the aft boarding steps. The power is supplied by two Yanmar 3YM30 sail drives, located under the aft bunks and accessible through large removable panels. The legs are fitted standard with folding props.

Each engine room contains a dedicated start battery, bilge pump and a light. The standard alternators have been replaced by hi-output 80a/h alternators with nine step smart regulators and a centrefield. The Yanmars were quiet and economical at under two-litres an hour at 2100rpm, and they are fitted with an electronic kill button which is very convenient. The boat carries a 520lt fuel tank, giving it a good range with about 260 hours of motoring.

The Admiral is fast, stable and safe and can easily be sailed by a a husband and wide team, or short-handed. If you like sailing flat and fast with tons of accommodation and comfort then a catamaran is your only choice and the Admiral 38 is certainly one of the best on offer.

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