MANUFACTURING
OVERVIEW
Located in Cape Town, South Africa, Robertson and Caine currently manufacture 3 sailing catamarans and 3 power catamarans for the world markets. Ranging in size from 40-53ft.
Manufactured to standards beyond certification, our products are developed and tested off the Cape of Storms at the tip of Africa in the toughest ocean conditions.We strive to be the benchmark for ocean cruising catamarans. Through innovative design, development of new materials and processes, handcrafted skills and strict quality standards.
R&C continues to position itself as a world-class manufacturer with the objective to deliver quality products throughout the world.
All of our boats are built in accordance with ISO standards and are certified by the International Marine Certification Institute (IMCI) in accordance with the Recreational Craft Directive 2013/53/EU. Additionally, our product is also certified by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) to ABYC standards. We are members of the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) and the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).
With plants covering over 60 000 sqm, manufacturing a range of six models by a Team of 2400+ persons, Robertson and Caine is focused upon producing world-class catamarans of exceptional build quality. Adhering to sustainable and safe production practices.
DESIGN
Our design philosophy is integration simplified. We blend the ease of boat handling with effective boat speed, without compromising onboard comfort and functionality. Our inhouse design Teams in Tampa and Cape Town, constantly innovate form and function, producing award winning industry benchmark catamarans in power and sail.
Construction
To build for solid blue water performance, Robertson and Caine use superior materials, fit for purpose, with every step of the build process, adhering to global standards and subject to stringent quality control. Robertson and Caine catamarans dominate the charter fleets of The Mooring and Sunsail, thus are built to be reliable, with low maintenance.
The construction of these vessels incorporates various manufacturing processes such as Hand Laminating, Vacuum Infusion as well as Resin Transfer Moulding to build the required composite parts. For structural parts, multiaxial E-Glass is used in combination with PVC Foam Core within vacuum infusion processes to provide rigidity, impact resistant and buoyant vessels.
Isophthalic/Vinyl Ester resins and NPG gelcoats prevents the onset of hydrolysis. The strong hull laminate is light and durable resulting in a dynamic weight-carrying capacity and excellent motion reaction.
Manufacturing techniques such as vacuum infusion, RTM Light, air demoulding and full deck/hull infusion are used to build a lighter, sturdier product, with greater performance potential.
Each of our six models has their own dedicated production facilities from moulding to final assembly. These are served by a joinery manufacturing facility and a distribution centre. Three catamarans are launched weekly. The catamarans are then shipped globally, with the mast already stepped, through the Port of Cape Town on transport vessels.
5-axis CNC Machining
5-Axis machining involves using a CNC system to move the table/bed and cutting tool along five different axes simultaneously. This enables the machining of very complex parts, which is why 5-axis is especially popular for marine applications.
All the machining and milling is done on advanced styling and tooling base materials with precision robotic systems ensuring perfect accuracy each and every time.
Hand Built Plugs
After the assembly of CNC cut timber profiles, our skilled workforce effect the cladding of the plug. Each step of the process is closely monitored by a team of Composite Engineers and tooling experts.
The plug will then be polished to a class "A" finish and handed over for a final quality check and approval. At this stage, new moulds may be developed for production.
Deck & Hull Infusion
The resin-infused Deck & Hull laminate is strong, light and durable resulting in a dynamic weight-carrying capacity and excellent motion reaction.
Foam Cores
High-density PVC foam cores are extensively used throughout all the resin-infused parts. The cores are all CNC cut and nested to precise dimensions as per the engineering drawings.
Advanced Fabrics
Multiaxial E-glass stitched fabrics ensure maximum strength and promote a very high calibre glass-to-resin ratios. These fabrics includes, but are not limited to, unidirectional, biaxial and quadraxial E-glass.
Collision Bulkheads
In case of hull damage, watertight collision bulkheads at bow and stern prevent water from entering the hull.
Internal Modules
Internal modules are assembled offline which in turn allows for ease of production as well as enhanced quality control, before final fitment.
Osmosis
NPG gelcoats and a Vinyl Ester resins are used for underwater applications to ensure a resin-rich E-glass barrier layer is achieved which improves resistance to hydrolysis and helps prevent osmosis.
Light Resin Transfer Moulding
Automated moulding processes are used to allow for repeatability at the same weight & quality every time.