A Decade of Momentum and Mastery
Since our founding in 2013, Balance Catamarans has grown from a small, two-boat-a-year operation into one of the most dynamic and respected catamaran builders in the world. We now operate two cutting-edge facilities in South Africa, employing over 750 team members and producing up to 25 catamarans annually.
Founder Phil Berman’s passion for sailing began in Newport Beach, California, in 1969, where he funded his university education by writing books on sailing. That early passion evolved into a mission: to shift the industry back toward performance-focused designs for serious sailors – catamarans that are swift, seaworthy, and beautiful to both sail and enjoy.
Craftsmanship Meets Innovation
Balance Catamarans first turned heads in 2015 with the Balance 526, which received top honors – Import Boat of the Year – from Cruising World Magazine. Among the features that set it apart was the VersaHelm®, a 90-degree pivoting helm station that redefined helm ergonomics, visibility, and comfort for ocean-going catamarans.
Behind every Balance build is a culture of collaboration. South African master builder Jonathan Paarman and his team have been central to our success, bringing decades of experience and a shared obsession with quality to every project. Balance Catamarans Cape Town is headed by the very talented master builder Mark Delany whose team of pros bring excellence to every project. Our approach to working together is rooted in dialogue and innovation, not hierarchy — that way good ideas rise from anywhere and better boats result.
A Culture That Reflects Our Name
Walk through any Balance facility, and you’ll feel it: a blend of focus, pride, and harmony. South Africa’s diversity — across race, religion, and culture — is not just reflected in our workforce; it’s celebrated. As Phil often says, our team is a living tribute to the spirit of Mandela’s Rainbow Nation.
This shared spirit fuels our work and shapes the boats we create, catamarans with soul, character, and uncompromising performance. The Balance 526’s recent winning performance in the Cape2Rio race is just another example of our goal to build beautiful boats that perform.
Launching the Future
On the horizon:
- Balance 750 – Our new flagship: a high-performance luxury voyager with sleek lines, a forward cockpit, and spacious living.
- Balance 580 – Designed for performance cruising couples, it promises short-handed capability with exhilarating speed.
- Integral E-Drive Electric System – A pioneering diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system, pushing Balance into a more sustainable, energy-efficient future.
These models embody our commitment to both forward-thinking technology and timeless sailing principles.
A Bespoke Experience
At Balance, our customers are more than buyers; they play an important point in sharing their ideas with us. Through our design configurator, they personalize details including materials, finishes, layouts, and more. Buyers are given several options to display their vision and match it to the lifestyle they are seeking with a Balance Catamaran.
We also offer deep support beyond the build. From hands-on training to our new Owners Portal and app, we ensure clients are confident and connected. Our Sailing Ambassador Program and Certified Delivery Skipper Network further strengthen the Balance community, helping new owners learn from experienced voyagers.
More Than a Boat — It’s a Journey
Whether you’re exploring South Africa’s breathtaking landscapes or crafting a catamaran that’s uniquely yours, Balance offers more than a boat, we offer a journey of discovery, craftsmanship, and shared passion for sailing and discovery around the world.
As we look to the future, our mission remains clear: to build the finest performance catamarans in the world and to foster a global community of sailors who share our love for the sea.
Ready to find your balance?
Join us on the water, at the boat shows, or in our shipyards and experience the next chapter of modern catamaran sailing.
– Phil Berman
Founder, Balance Catamarans
