Catalyst: a shadow boat with aviation capabilities

The shadow boat specialist Shadowcat has unveiled the Catalyst, a 69-metre companion yacht concept developed by Theo Fotoadis Design.
News
28 september 2026
Aviation operations sit at the heart of the concept. A beam of 15.5 metres allows for a hangar capable of accommodating an Airbus H145 with its blades unfolded, removing the need to fold the rotor system before stowing the aircraft. The yacht's main helipad is rated to a T-value of 7 tonnes and a D-value of 17 metres. A second helipad on the upper deck creates potential to separate landing, parking, hangaring and deck operations. The arrangement means the yacht can function as a full aviation platform.

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The spacious tender deck accommodates a 15-metre dive tender, a 12-metre beach lander, an 11.5-metre RIB, an 8-metre rescue RIB and an additional 8-metre RIB, launched and recovered by three main tender cranes. The catamaran carries up to 31 people: 21 crew and 10 additional staff.

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Catalyst will be capable of a maximum speed of up to 10 knots thanks to two MTU 12V4000 engines. The concept made its debut at the Monaco Yacht Show 2026 alongside Shadowcat's new series of 67-metre companion yachts optimised for specific tasks.


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