Inflatable Thundercat Race Boats in the US!
Now taking orders! We’re importing genuine South African hulls by Aquarius and Caesar.
Unparalleled quality and performance that will guarantee years of reliable fun.
What is a Thundercat?
Thundercats are catamaran RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boat), a high performance relative to the Zodiak. The inflatable sponsons have an aggressive profile in contrast to traditional recreational catamarans that allow them to turn like they are on rails. The hulls weigh around 200 pounds which helps them rocket from waves.
The Race
The second most exhilarating event of your life
Often raced in the surf, thundercats are great for rough water conditions because of their large flotation sponsons and open transoms. Any water that makes it into the vessel, quickly runs out the back through the transom. Although it can look dangerous, thundercats are actually safer than most vessels on the water. Typically, a thundercat will have six independently inflated chambers. If one is punctured, the remaining five will easily keep the vessel afloat.
The Physics
Thundercats are usually raced 2-up (driver and copilot). Top speed and acceleration will be better with only a driver but the ballast of a copilot is helpful for making hairpin turns. Since the hull weights about 200 pounds and the motor weighs about 200 pounds, the movement of a 100 – 200 pound copilot about the cockpit can drastically change the location of the center of gravity and thus the ability to maneuver.
The Power
Thundercats are typically outfitted with 40 to 90 HP outboard motors. The lighter the motor however, the better the handling. The optimum setup is a 40 HP outboard, like the mercury 3 cylinders of 1996-2005 vintage, ported to produce upwards of 90 HP. Modernization of engine technology is sensitive to submersion and that’s why the carbureted 2 strokes of yesteryear are still the best fit for thundercat racing. Carbureted 2 strokes are great motors for thundercat power due to the inherent lack of electronics, high power to weight ratios and no need for a starting battery.
Fun in the sun
Thundercats are great for fishing and general recreation in addition to their wicked high speed performance. The majority of the hull lift comes from aerodynamics which leaves very little of the hull below the water’s surface. Shallow draft makes them great for getting up the creek or to your favorite scalloping spot. Egress and entry is a breeze over the round sponsons which make them particularly nice for free diving. It’s an all-condition life raft capable of speeds in excess of 70 MPH.
Getting started with Thundercats
Boat, motor, trailer… what else?
Safety Gear
The hulls are full of air but slamming your face against one after coming off of a wave is never fun. A full face (motocross type) helmet that is capable of getting completely wet without degradation of the internal padding protects your face from accidental smashing. Cut proof life jackets are mandatory in racing circuits.
Kill switches save lives.
Tools and Equipment
The hulls come standard with storage compartments that are excellent for storing tools and a rope. Riders will need both when getting an overturned thundercat back in service.
Quality Materials
A new thundercat hull will typically cost 4 to 6 thousand dollars depending on brand. Be weary of old hulls selling for dirt cheap because gluing seams again and again makes for a bad time. Modern, welded thundercat hulls take more abuse in their lifetime than predecessors or cheap knock offs.
Fast Motors
Suitable motors go for $500 to $7000 (very used to new) and props cost between $100 to $1000. Mercury 3 cylinders are great for thundercats since they are common and inexpensive. Merc 3 Cylinder Wiki
Feed the Beast
Gas tanks designed specifically for thundercats fit snugly along the transom and leave the deck uncluttered.
Give us a Call.
Cracker Bay Thundercats is the Gulf Coast’s source for thundercat equipment and you can count on us for a turn key setup or just small parts.
No matter the state, we have you covered.
We’re based out of Panama City Beach, Florida but we can easily ship hulls to anywhere in the lower 48 for around $200.
Aquarius Inflatables for the win.
Aquarius has been manufacturing top quality inflatable boats for leisure and racing in South Africa since 1989.
The Aquarius boats cater to the needs of family, divers, fishermen and professional racers. Manufactured from the finest German VALMEX fabric using the latest thermo-welding technology are two of many reasons why Aquarius’ technical back-up and guarantee will assure you of a solid investment.
All hulls come with a 3 year warranty on workmanship and materials used.
Aquarius has been at the forefront of inflatable race boat technology and has won most of the major titles in South Africa, the birth place of thundercat racing. Racing began in South Africa in the early 80’s when local crews raced inflatable boats down treacherous rivers and along rugged coastline. Since the days of those extreme thrill seeking pioneers, inflatable boat technology has come a long way.
“We are continuously striving and challenging the extreme to bring to you, the boating enthusiast, the best technology can offer.” -Aquarius Inflatables