Peter Brady of Pathfinder Power Cats, one of our local boat builders in the Hemmant marine precinct, has launched a world-first project from The Yard Brisbane, aligned with his environmentally focused “3R’s” philosophy: Recycle, Refurbish and Reinvent.
The venture has transformed a former IACC America’s Cup yacht – AUS40, previously used as a Sydney Harbour charter boat – into a 57-ft power trimaran designed for long-range cruising, and has been built to be fully operable from a wheelchair.
Peter had considered converting ex-racing yachts into power trimarans for more than a decade. When the COVID-19 shutdown created an opportunity to acquire the America’s Cup hull, he recognized its narrow waterline, efficient shape, and wide deck as an ideal foundation.
In early 2022, the client contacted Peter about adapting an existing power catamaran for wheelchair use. When that proved impractical, Peter proposed repurposing the America’s Cup hull instead. The idea was immediately embraced, and Peter began developing a new design based on the hull, shortened by 15 feet.
The original carbon-fibre and Nomex honeycomb racer had minimal internal framing, allowing Peter to create a custom interior that includes a lift from the wheelhouse to the accommodation and engine room. Inspired by aircraft-carrier design, the deck has been extended with flared supports to allow wheelchair access to deck equipment. A Hiab-style crane will lift and launch the tender, as well as the owner in their wheelchair. The widened deck also allows the stability floats to sit inside the deck line for easier docking, with adjustable height underway to balance stability and drag.
We’re thrilled to see the project finally come to fruition and the vessel launch to great success at The Yard Brisbane. A huge congratulations to Peter and the team, and we wish the owners all the best for their adventures ahead!
To find out more, contact Peter at Pacific Power Cats.