Testimonial - Knysna 500

YACHT ALLEYCAT – KNYSNA 500 Catamaran, slot 70

When Heiko & Allison decided to purchase a cruising catamaran in March 2012 a new journey started

“Firstly we travelled all over the world and South Africa to investigate and compare over 15 different catamarans. We quietly realized that apart from the various price ranges, the single biggest factor which differentiates one boat from another is the yard who builds the boat. With Kevin & Rika from Knysna Yacht Company in South-Africa, we found the ideal match and boat that suits our needs & is build by people with passion & ownership. We were confident that the boat would firstly be built to exceptional standards, secondly that we would be able to customize the boat according to our often “over the top” expectations and thirdly, that we would receive good after sales service. This was corroborated by present boat owners we spoke to.

Now, finally in October 2012 Alley Cat is in the water and we can confirm that all of the above expectations have been met.

On 9 October we sailed Alley cat to Cape Town for the annual Cape Town Boat Show.

I am in danger of boasting, but I need to mention that she was the star of the show. Kevin refers to themselves as “Boutique” boat builders; this was certainly evident.

We have since sailed her back to Knysna and are truly happy with the sailing ability and handling of the yacht and the quality of craftsmanship.

Performance? What more do you need to add when surfing down the waves at

19 knots, in very strong westerly winds and big swell with just the Genoa sail flying, but always felt comfortable and secure in the cockpit!

We are now living on-board Alleycat in Knysna and spending quality time familiarize ourselves with the owner’s manuals and marine systems. There are still a few tasks that still needs to be completed by the boatyard and a further “wish” list, yet again, Kevin has not batted an eyelid about any of our further demands.

The plan is to cross the Atlantic Ocean in February next year and to spend a few years cruising the beautiful Caribbean Islands. Although this is our first catamaran and boat of this size, myself and Allison are not daunted by the prospect of handling a 50 ft. boat on our own.

Thank you Kevin and Rika & the team for making sure that we are getting our dream boat.

From Kevin and Rika,

Building Alleycat for Heiko and Allison was a challenge for sure, but also a positive experience.

From the moment Heiko and Allison laid eyes on the Knysna 500 it was clear that they had found the boat of their dreams. Her sleek lines and good looks aren’t the whole story by any means, but the quality finishes, luxurious accommodation; detailed specification list, reasonably priced, and customisation available completed the deal. We know very well that ordering a new yacht is a big decision for anyone to make – and an exciting one too.

Heiko and Allison, we hope you have enjoyed the building process; this is where the pride of ownership really starts... We really appreciate your fresh and innovative ideas you brought to the build.

We also want to thank you that the Knysna 500 became your preferred choice – we want you to think of Alleycat as your “villa” on the water, just a lot more flexible as you can move her around the islands to exotic places of your dreams.