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About FatCat
We believe small boats should besafe, stable, practical and perform well
We got fed-up hearing about the endless accidents and tragedies in small, unstable boats. We decided to do something about it, — create safer, more stable, practical & better performing small boats for everyday people to enjoy on the water.
To that goal, FatCat hulls combine catamaran stability with tough, functional construction, crafted by boatbuilders with a passion for what they do. FatCat boats are easy to use, incredibly capable, and inspire confidence across a wide range of conditions.
The hull design and features have been carefully thought out to give the driest, most comfortable and predictable ride possible, while the wide platform, level flotation, and flat self-draining deck keeps everyone calm and confident—whether you’re fishing, diving, or needing to cross a bar.
- Amazingly stable both underway and at rest
- Plenty of room for gear and people
- Incredibly versatile: dive, fish, hunt or family fun
- Hard-wearing, durable hull that's quiet in the water
- Massive flat, self-draining floor with no trip hazards
- Swim steps for easy boarding
Our Story
Years In Development
FatCat specialises in safe yet spacious boats that are perfect for a wide range of on-water needs. Whether you know exactly what you’re looking for or need a little help choosing, we know our boats inside out and we’re here every step of the way.
Our Team
Meet The Founders
Blair McLay
Co-Founder
Roger Tweddell
Co-Founder
Our history
The Idea of FatCat began long before the company was formed. Sick of seeing and hearing of so many small boat accidents, Blair designed and built the first prototype in 2014/2015 in his garage while working at Pure Design/Emirates Team NZ during the day. The concept attracted interest from boaties looking for something different to traditional small monohulls — a boat that felt bigger, safer, and more comfortable than its length suggested.
In 2018, FatCat officially launched as a company with Blair joining forces with Roger Tweddell to develop and produce what became the FatCat 4000.
Drawing on decades of combined experience around boats, sailing, design, engineering, and on-water testing, the pair worked to refine the FatCat concept into a production boat built specifically for real-world New Zealand and Australian conditions.
Since then, FatCat Boats has continued to grow steadily, with boats now operating across many countries including New Zealand, Australia, USA, UK, India, Korea, the Caribbean & Pacific Islands. The range has evolved through constant customer feedback, resulting in boats known for their safety, space, stability, predictable handling, shallow water capability, and highly practical layouts.
Today, Blair continues to lead FatCat remaining focused on building innovative catamarans with a strong emphasis on quality, customer service, and creating boats that help more people enjoy time on the water safely and confidently.
Pre FatCat. Blair pictured as part of the ETNZ Engineering team that produced the first foiling AC72 yachts.
2014-2015: Design and construction of the first prototype in an Auckland garage.
2018 - FatCat Founded. 2nd Prototype Built
2018: Prototype #2 displayed at Auckland On Water Boat Show
2019: First Production FatCat 4000 delivered
2020: First FatCat 4000's exported.
2022: FatCat 4500 launched
2023: FatCat 4500 Cabin launched
2025 Onwards: FatCats continue to be refined & shipped to customers all over the world
In The Media
We’re proud that the FatCat has been featured in all the leading Marine mags – read the reviews!
