A new player in the multihull world has launched its first model. The Tortue 147, from emerging builder Cataruga, is a 48-foot aluminum cruising catamaran designed for long-range, self-sufficient voyaging—emphasizing comfort, durability, and simplicity at sea.
Cataruga was founded by Jean Sommereux, an engineer turned liveaboard sailor, who set out to build a boat that rethinks modern multihull design. The Tortue 147 is the result: a rugged, ergonomic platform optimized for offshore use, built with a slow-and-steady philosophy that favors manual craftsmanship, sustainable materials, and intuitive systems.
The boat’s name—Tortue means “turtle” in French—reflects its character: robust, quiet, and self-contained. Built in Tunisia with a core team of artisans, the catamaran features a full aluminum hull and deck, paired with Paulownia wood for lightness and sustainability. According to the shipyard, every component was selected for strength, longevity, and low environmental impact.
Technically, the Tortue 147 is outfitted for energy independence, with 5.5 kW of solar panels, lithium and AGM battery banks, and Victron inverters. Future models will offer hybrid or fully electric propulsion systems. The vessel includes thoughtful design touches such as freshwater/diesel ballast tanks for trim control, electric sail furlers, and a helm station built for single or shorthanded operation.
With room for up to nine guests, in three double cabins and two heads, the Tortue 147 touts liveaboard comfort with offshore readiness. The boat is Category A rated, and carries 370 gallons of water (plus a 26-gph watermaker) and 317 gallons of fuel—ample capacity for long-distance motorsailing.
Cataruga’s vision, according to the team, is “a different way to sail”—which, based on the information revealed to date, suggests less fuss and more freedom for cruising sailors.
