Bob Oram has always gone his own way, carving out what could be called a 'cult' following. Many of Bob's boats may be recognised for their unique looking bridge decks. Some are very futuristic and some rather boxy but the boats work. The 44C and other new styles, present Bob's more moderate/mainstream side with the 'look' that is so pleasing in modern Cats.

The use of pre-cut Composite panels makes the hulls fast to put together so length is not prohibitive of time and materials. Those long legged, skinny hulls make for a fast boat. The waterline and wetted area are favourable for good speed but more sensitive to weight. Don't look for extensive accommodation in an Oram boat in fact according to a current builder you should get a 44 to 48 foot Oram boat to be equal to the accommodation of most other 40 footers.

 The designs are keyed to ease of build, low cost and practicality which can contribute to an angular look. The hull-deck join on the 44C for example, is still rather abrupt compared to some. This can have a slight 'slab sided' effect to some eyes where others prefer to see lines and have more deck space. The plans allow either option. If you want to soften the lines it just involves more time. Another optional characteristic eg, how about one dagger board instead of two? There are two Oram boats being built near to the factory here and both are using that option. Both builders are experienced, they have both built Cats before and both think it's a good idea. They reckon you only ever use one and it frees up space in one of the hulls. Aggie Bucher of Airlie Beach says the board, which is not pre-made in Bob's kit, was a pain in the arse to build so was very happy to only do one. Aggie and Jo built “Tangora” years ago for cruising with their family. The bright red boat can still be regularly seen in the Whit's with a crowd of backpackers hanging off the hulls. Their 44C is near completion and compares with “Extra Chilli” as a very attractive modern Cat…. with those quirky little touches.

Though Bob Oram allows for diesels, most are done with outboards.

Speaking of “Extra Chilli,” I caught up to the Raes on their way north for their maiden voyage (see launching article, TCP # 9 page 19) and asked how they were liking their boat and they said they love it. Ian reported a top speed of 15.8 knots! He said they let it go as long as they could but at that point the fear factor induced them to slow her down.

How much…how long!? I got the info from Bob Oram and was fortunate to have two projects nearby to verify. Both are very near completion with little expense left so their numbers should be close.

Don and Vicki MacGillivray are building their second Bob Oram Cat. Their first was a 48 foot boat that Don put in the water in 11 months! Don admits the finish was rough and is taking more time with the smaller boat. He has allocated 18 months on this one and is to schedule. He has taken the time to do many nice touches in fitout and the outside finish looks well done. He reports the boat will cost $120K all up and he includes tools in that!

Jo and Aggy Bucher have built the bigger boat (44C) and have finished it very tidy but simply. It's to be a weekend and holiday craft, not live-aboard. Though from what I saw it would certianly do for live aboard.

For example, Jo found an old 70hp outboard motor which he installed instead of the normal set of new Hondas. Saving where they could but not compromising on finish, Jo reckons they also will come in at $120K in the water, an extraordinary achievement,! Bob Oram figures $140K with outboards, simple fitout and plain sail only. I would suggest that a builder would be wise to budget $165K (GST, transport etc) to be safe and beat it if you can. But the point is, this is a time when you can come out well on your labour. A boat finished to the level of Jo and Aggy's could not be bought for less than $400k regardless of cost of materials.