At Balance Catamarans, quality isn’t a marketing slogan — it’s a process that runs through every layer of the boat, from structure and engineering to silence underway and long-term owner support. In this in-depth conversation, Phil Berman (Founder) and Dean Paarman (Director of Operations – South Africa) break down what building for quality actually means in practice — and why it matters when your boat becomes your home, your transport, and your safety system at sea. This video goes inside the invisible details that define a Balance Catamaran: • Carbon foam-core bulkheads • Fully glassed deck joints (inside and out) • Hand-faired interiors with no cosmetic covers • Rigidity, silence, and long-term durability • Electrical systems built around modern 48V architecture • Quality control loops from factory to waterfront • Training, documentation, and real-world owner support You’ll also hear why stiffness equals silence, how quality directly impacts safety offshore, and why Balance chooses to build fewer boats — better — rather than chase volume. This is not about perfection. It’s about pride, process, and constantly raising the bar. 00:00 Introduction to Balance Catamarans 00:25 Passion, Heritage & the Balance Philosophy 01:26 Structural Quality: Bulkheads, Carbon & Rigidity 04:46 Craftsmanship, Fairing & Invisible Details 06:41 Training, Apprenticeships & Skilled Teams 07:31 Engineering, Weight, Strength & Innovation 14:10 Owner Experience, Silence & Offshore Comfort 17:48 Electrical Systems & 48V Technology Evolution 22:08 Sailing Skills, Training & Owner Confidence 22:47 Owner Community, Feedback & Continuous Improvement 24:48 Conclusion: Striking the Balance

Join Dean Paarman, Director of Operations at Balance Catamarans, and Phil Berman, President of Balance Catamarans, for an in-depth conversation on the design evolution, engineering breakthroughs, and construction innovations behind the newest Balance models. From the launch of the Balance 580, 502, 750, and the first E-Drive installations, to rethinking hull structures, materials, rig geometry, and OEM partnerships — this discussion reveals how Balance is raising the standard for performance voyaging catamarans while keeping comfort, durability, and cost in balance. Whether you’re a current owner, future buyer, industry professional, or simply a fan of the brand, this video provides rare behind-the-scenes insight into how and why Balance continues to innovate. ⏱️ Chapter Markers 00:00 – Introduction 00:49 – Launching New Models 01:13 – Innovation & Design Philosophy 01:51 – Why New Tooling Is So Challenging 03:15 – Mockups & Cross-Department Collaboration 04:49 – Designing for Real-World Use 05:51 – Balancing Comfort, Performance & Cost 08:46 – Carbon Core, Infusion & Weight Reduction 11:23 – Aesthetic Upgrades & Interior Evolution 21:13 – OEM Partnerships, Quality & Reliability 27:18 – Closing Thoughts & Future Topics 💬 Topics Covered • Why Balance is releasing multiple new models in one year • The real cost and complexity of new tooling • Mockups, prototyping, and the design iteration process • Performance vs comfort: how Balance finds the sweet spot • How waterline length, stern volume & payload capacity affect performance • Carbon Core construction and strategic weight reduction • New rig geometry and sail plan upgrades • Aesthetic updates inspired by high-end Italian furniture • Window redesigns, ventilation improvements & helm ergonomics • OEM component choices: what stays, what changes, and why • Long-term durability considerations for voyaging sailors 📌 About Balance Catamarans Balance Catamarans builds high-performance, live-aboard cruising catamarans engineered for voyaging sailors who demand both speed and comfort. With production in South Africa and owners sailing across every ocean, Balance continues to lead in design innovation, craftsmanship, and ocean-ready reliability.

Welcome aboard Tiger Lily — the very first Balance 502. In this in-depth walkthrough, Dean Paarman, Director of Operations for Balance Catamarans South Africa, takes you on a detailed tour of the all-new Balance 502, showcasing the design evolution, performance upgrades, and interior refinements that define the next generation of Balance sailing catamarans. The Balance 502 is a new-generation 50-foot performance cruising catamaran, developed as the successor to the Balance 482. With a longer waterline, increased buoyancy, and a redesigned structure, the 502 was engineered to support modern hybrid propulsion options while delivering improved payload capacity, safety, and sailing performance — without compromising the light-weight DNA Balance is known for. From the redesigned Versa Stern and carbon-core superstructure, to the J-Max sail plan, expanded helm ergonomics, and a refined interior layout, this walkthrough highlights how owner feedback and real-world cruising experience shaped every detail of the boat. Tiger Lily has completed her testing and final fit-out and is now preparing to ship to the Caribbean, where she will be available for Try Before You Buy sailing experiences through the Outer Passage program, before appearing at the Miami Boat Show. 👉 Learn more about the Balance 502: https://balancecatamarans.com/502-2/ Apogee Sea Systems - https://balancecatamarans.com/what-owners-need-to-know-about-starlink/ Carbon Core - https://youtu.be/xuGcnsQxXVQ Try Before You buy Program https://balancecatamarans.com/try-before-you-buy/ Video Chapters 00:00 Welcome Aboard Tiger Lily 01:06 Redesigning the Balance 502 02:05 Performance Enhancements 03:27 Deck and Safety Features 06:35 Interior Innovations 12:59 Guest Cabins and Amenities 16:32 Owner’s Suite and Storage 20:52 Final Thoughts and Farewell Stay in Balance.

Versa Drive Sea Trial: Revolutionizing Catamaran Efficiency Get the experiment data here: https://balancecatamarans.com/edrive/ Join us as we explore the impressive performance of Integrel's Diesel Electric Hybrid solution, known as Versa Drive, during an early sea trial on the Balance 482 Breakaway. This episode details the results of ten experiments showcasing various propulsion and charging configurations under different RPM settings and environmental conditions. Discover the key takeaways on maximizing fuel efficiency, silent motor sailing, and efficient charging at anchor. Learn how the VersaDrive can significantly enhance your sailing experience. For detailed data and further resources, check out these links: 00:00 Introduction to Integrel's Diesel Electric Hybrid Solution 00:10 Versa Drive Performance Results 00:53 User Experience and Real-Time View 01:59 Experiment A: Pure Electric Mode 04:25 Experiment B: Single Electric Motor 05:14 Experiment C: Single Diesel Under Charge 08:13 Experiment D: Single Diesel Without Charging 08:52 Experiment E: Twin Diesels Without Charging 09:57 Experiment F: Twin Diesels With Charging 12:18 Experiment G: Hybrid Propulsion 14:24 Experiment H: At Anchor Charging 17:15 Conclusion and Key Takeaways LINKS: - https://balancecatamarans.com/hybrid-propulsion-at-sea/ - https://balancecatamarans.com/edrive/ - https://integrelsolutions.com/crossing-an-ocean-with-confidence-with-e-drive/ - https://integrelsolutions.com/e-drive-performance-series-part-1-power-generation-efficiency/

Anchoring Tips for a Safe and Secure Sailing Experience In this episode, we take you through the step-by-step process of finding and securing an anchorage after a day of sailing. From choosing the right spot with good holding sand to dealing with obstacles like sea grass and nearby boats, we show you how to ensure a safe and reliable anchor setting. We cover important tasks such as using minimal scope, handling the anchor chain, keeping the boat steady, and setting up an anchor alarm. Watch as we share real-world tips on dealing with challenging situations, such as having to relocate when the initial anchoring spot didn't hold. Join us for a detailed and practical approach to anchoring for a secure and worry-free sailing experience. 00:00 Finding the Perfect Anchorage 01:31 Preparing to Drop Anchor 03:04 Setting the Anchor 04:23 Adjusting and Securing the Anchor 07:07 Relocating to a New Anchorage 09:26 Finalizing the Anchorage 15:03 Setting Up Anchor Alarms 16:17 Conclusion and Tips for Safe Anchoring For Balance Owners: To access the complete series (20 videos) you can log in on the Owner's Portal and navigate to: https://owners.balancecatamarans.com/sailing-your-balance/

Join us in St. Francis Bay for the joyful launch of Balance 526 Instinct — the final boat to roll out of the St. Francis factory for 2025. As is tradition, the Balance Catamarans team walked the yacht from the factory down to the port, joined by the owners. With a touch of Christmas spirit in the air, the crew donned festive Santa caps, adding warmth and humour to the occasion. As dusk settled and everyone waited for the spring high tide to arrive under a glowing full moon, Instinct lit up the marina with her Christmas lights — a fitting moment of celebration to close out a remarkably busy year for the St. Francis yard. 2025 has seen multiple Balance 526s completed, including two of the new 580s, with another 580 already preparing for launch early in the new year. 🎉 Congratulations to the owners of Balance 526 Instinct — may this beautiful catamaran carry you safely across oceans and into countless adventures.

Join Dean Paarman, Director of South African Operations for Balance, and Phil Berman, founder of Balance Catamarans, in an in-depth conversation about the design philosophy behind Balance catamarans. Discover the unique features that set Balance boats apart, such as the innovative VersaHelm, ergonomic layout, and ease of handling. Learn how performance in terms of speed, safety, and liveability is intricately balanced in these vessels, making them ideal for both seasoned sailors and casual cruisers. Get insights into design considerations ranging from sail plans, hull shapes, and interior comfort, to practical elements like storage and ease of maintenance. Learn more: https://balancecatamarans.com/about-2/performance/ Tune in to understand how Balance ensures a seamless integration of performance and comfort in their catamarans. 00:00 Introduction to Balance Catamarans 01:01 The Philosophy Behind Performance Design 01:35 Innovative Features: The Versa Helm 08:31 Sailing and Handling: Cockpit and Helm Setup 18:06 Designing for Light Wind Performance 23:23 Advantages of Daggerboards 26:41 Ergonomics and Safety Features 30:48 Accessibility and Maintenance 34:28 Living Comfortably on a Catamaran 39:47 Designing for Performance at Anchor 43:32 Personalizing Your Catamaran 45:01 Conclusion and Next Steps

Meet Tiger Lily, the first Balance 502 to launch from our Cape Town yard — a striking evolution of the Balance design philosophy. She embodies the true spirit of “Striking the Balance” — between performance and liveaboard comfort. Every inch has been optimized for blue-water cruising, from her single-beam longeron and self-tacking jib setup, to her VersaStern™ folding transom door and signature VersaHelm™ dual-position helm. Step inside and discover a bright, frameless Italian-inspired interior, larger saloon windows with custom ventilation hatches, and beautifully crafted spaces designed for real life at sea. ⚓ Experience the Balance 502: https://balancecatamarans.com/502-2/ 🎥 Filmed in Cape Town, during her first sea trials — the beginning of a new chapter in the Balance story. #BalanceCatamarans #Balance502 #TigerLily #PerformanceCatamaran #BluewaterCruising #CapeTown #LuxuryCatamaran

Join Phil Berman, founder of Balance Catamarans, in St. Francis, South Africa — where it all began — for a special October 2025 State of Balance update. This isn’t our usual annual address, but with so much happening this year, it’s time to pause and share what’s unfolding across the Balance world. 🚀 Highlights include: • Launch of the Balance 580, now sailing in both Europe and the U.S. • The first Balance 526 E-Drive, our electric-hybrid collaboration with Integrel • The first Balance 502 debuting in Cape Town • The Balance 750 flagship undergoing sea trials • Tooling for the new Balance 464 nearly complete • Announcement of the all-new Balance 540, replacing the legendary 526 after 36 builds 🌍 Global Expansion & Owner Support From our growing support hubs in Grenada, Chesapeake Bay, and Canet-en-Roussillon (France) to partner yards across New Zealand, Tahiti, and the Seychelles, we’re building a worldwide Balance network to ensure every owner feels connected and supported. 💡 Innovation Never Stops From VersaHelm™ refinements to e-drive propulsion and next-generation rig systems, Balance continues to redefine performance cruising catamarans — built lighter, stronger, faster, and more livable than ever. ⚓️ Try Before You Buy Experience a Balance firsthand through our Outer Passage program — with adventure charters and live-aboard sailing instruction aboard real Balance catamarans. 🎬 See us at major boat shows: Cannes • Annapolis • Miami • La Grande-Motte Until then — stay in Balance. #BalanceCatamarans #SailingLife #CatamaranInnovation #balance502 #balance580 #PhilBerman #StateOfBalance2025

Today we celebrate a major milestone for Balance Catamarans: the launch of Tiger Lily, the very first Balance 502. This moment is not just the splash of a new catamaran — it represents years of innovation, craftsmanship, and collaboration. The 502 is the third new model we’ve launched in 2025, following the Balance 580 and Balance 750, and marks a new chapter in our performance catamaran range. From all-new tooling and design, to her carbon fiber structure, longer waterline, advanced ergonomics, and refined interiors—the Balance 502 combines speed, strength, and comfort in true Balance style. Related Videos: https://youtu.be/A_-7yzXppT8 https://youtu.be/xuGcnsQxXVQ https://youtu.be/ufdF-WfWuGc This project reflects the dedication of hundreds of skilled hands: laminators, painters, engineers, designers, builders, and the entire Cape Town Balance team who brought her to life. https://youtu.be/v2844OhL3ok 👏 A special thank you to our partners who made this possible: Du Toit Yacht Design – Naval Architects behind the 502’s lines and innovation Ullman Sails Cape Town Loft – providing world-class sailmaking expertise Sparcraft South Africa – delivering precision in rigging and spar solutions Integrel Solutions – The installation and testing of the new E-Drive system aboard Tiger Lily Congratulations to the proud owners of Tiger Lily — she’s ready to make waves! 📍 Learn more about the Balance 502 and our growing range at: https://balancecatamarans.com/502-2/ #BalanceCatamarans #Balance502 #CatamaranLaunch #TigerLily #CapeTown

Join Balance Catamarans founder Phil Berman for an exclusive first look at the very first Balance 502 under construction at our Cape Town factory. In this detailed walkthrough, Phil highlights the innovations, design features, and performance upgrades that make the 502 a true evolution in the Balance line. Videos mentioned: https://youtu.be/xuGcnsQxXVQ https://youtu.be/SyT2T7z5qk8 Webinar: https://balancecatamarans.com/webinar-alert-connected-at-sea/ Highlights include: New forward-opening custom glass ports and oversized hatches for unmatched airflow Redesigned helm station and nav module with improved sightlines and comfort Flush-mounted glass solar panels delivering serious power and durability The new JMAX rig system with extended forestay and larger self-tacking jib Expanded storage and sail lockers designed for performance cruising Curved jib track for better sail shape and handling Carbon Core construction for a lighter, stiffer, and faster boat Flexible interior features, including a convertible office/makeup desk Upgraded systems, including Starlink integration and new breaker access design Increased buoyancy and payload capacity for E-drive systems and larger tenders Phil also shares updates on Balance production, including the new Balance 540 (replacing the 526), the upcoming Balance 464, and details on where you can see Balance models on display at the Annapolis Boat Show. ⚡ Whether you’re a passionate sailor, a future Balance owner, or simply love smart yacht design, this walkthrough showcases how the 502 raises the bar for performance, safety, and liveability at sea. 👉 Subscribe to our channel for more updates on the Balance 502, the new 540, and behind-the-scenes looks at our design innovations. #BalanceCatamarans #Balance502 #CarbonCore #PerformanceCruising #CatamaranLife 00:00 Introduction to Balanced Catamarans 00:17 Main Salon Features 01:51 Cockpit and Helm Innovations 03:33 Deck and Solar Panel Enhancements 04:24 Jmax System and Forward Deck 08:28 Interior Design and Carbon Core 14:01 Office and Electrical Upgrades 16:56 Final Touches and Conclusion

Join Phil Berman, President of Balance Catamarans, for a behind-the-scenes walkthrough of one of our very first Balance 502s during its final assembly stage at our Cape Town yard. In this detailed update, Phil explains: What “Carbon Core” means and how it differs from our earlier carbon-cross builds. Why we’ve chosen to integrate carbon bulkheads, trunks, tanks, soles, steps, davits, and partition panels. The benefits of lighter, stiffer construction without sacrificing comfort, strength, or durability. How vinyl ester resin across the entire build (hulls) adds further strength and weight savings. Key innovations in the 502, including carbon daggerboard trunks, stringers in the bows, new skylight and ventilation systems, and redesigned interiors. The Balance 502 represents a major leap forward in our design philosophy: merging performance and comfort by carefully engineering weight savings with the highest-quality materials. By using Carbon Core construction, we’re able to deliver faster, stronger, and more payload-capable voyaging catamarans—without compromising the handcrafted cabinetry and luxury finish that define Balance. ⚓️ Boats featured: Balance 502 (Hulls #1 #2 #3 and #4 already in build), Balance 442, Balance 464 (next in line), with references to the Balance 540, 580, and 750. 🌍 Filmed: August 2025, Cape Town, South Africa. We’re excited to share the journey of the Balance 502 as she nears completion—and hope to showcase her at a Boat Show in the new yeat. 👉 Have questions about Carbon Core or Balance Catamarans? Leave them in the comments or email us—we’d love to hear from you. Stay in Balance. #BalanceCatamarans #Balance502 #CarbonCore #PerformanceCatamaran #CatamaranLife 00:00 Introduction to Balance Catamarans 00:19 Final Assembly Stage Explained 00:38 What is a Carbon Core Boat? 01:46 Customer Request and Decision to Use Carbon Core 02:23 Carbon Core Construction Details 03:00 Vinyl Ester vs Polyester Resin 03:28 Carbon Components in the 502 Model 05:55 Starboard Hall and Weight Savings 08:20 Partition Panels and Stringers 12:29 Performance and Comfort Balance 14:23 Future Models and Excitement 15:10 Conclusion and Contact Information

Balance Catamaran – Our 50th Cape Town Launch! A proud moment for the Balance Catamarans team — the 50th boat has officially splashed from our Cape Town yard! (Bringing the total to 88 Catamarans todate) This launch represents not only another incredible Balance catamaran heading out to sea, but also a major milestone for everyone who has been part of this journey — from our dedicated craftsmen and women, to the design and build teams, and of course, the new owners. We extend our warmest congratulations to all involved, and to the owners: fair winds and following seas on your upcoming adventures. #BalanceCatamarans #CapeTownLaunch #CatamaranLife #Milestone

Book Appointment: cailie@balancecatamarans.com https://balancecatamarans.com/580-2/

Balance 540: https://balancecatamarans.com/the-balance-540/ Join Phil Berman from Balance Catamarans and Jonathan Paarman as they unveil their latest model, the Balance 540. Discover the features and innovations that set the Balance 540 apart from its predecessor, the 526, including enhanced buoyancy, hybrid E-drive compatibility, increased carbon content, and versatile cabin configurations. Learn about the thoughtful design improvements and construction details that make this new catamaran a standout in performance and comfort. Don't miss out on the latest advancements in catamaran design—visit Balance Catamarans' website for more information and catch them at upcoming yachting festivals. 00:00 Introduction to Balanced Catamarans 00:51 Why the New Balance 540? 02:34 Design Evolution and Hull Changes 04:44 Interior Layout and Owner Options 06:40 Carbon and Performance Enhancements 09:00 Rigging and Sailing Innovations 10:05 Comfort and Livability 14:03 Modernized Profile and Safety Features 17:23 Commitment to Quality and Craftsmanship 22:43 Conclusion and Future Plans #newmodel #balancecatamarans #balance540

Webevent: Today 27 August 2025 - 7pm Western European Time 👉 Learn more and register here: https://balancecatamarans.com/balance-web-event-parasailor/ As one of our upcoming Balance 442 owners prepares to carry a Parasailor aboard his new yacht, we had the pleasure of hosting Bojan Michiels van Kessenich — a representative from Parasailor — in Cape Town. Bojan brought along a Parasailor to fly on another owner’s Balance 482, giving us the chance to see the sail in action and experience first-hand why so many sailors choose this innovative downwind solution. ⚓ Curious about how the Parasailor works and whether it’s the right sail for you? Join our upcoming Balance Catamarans webinar, where we’ll dive deeper into its performance, setup, and advantages. 👉 Learn more and register here: https://balancecatamarans.com/balance-web-event-parasailor/ Today 27 August 2025 - 7pm Western European Time

#Balance750 #CatamaranLaunch #LuxuryPerformanceCatamaran #BalanceCatamarans

Mastering Main Sail Trim: Advanced Techniques Explained In this episode of our advanced sail trim series, we delve into the intricacies of trimming the main sail to achieve optimal performance. Starting with an overview of the basics, we examine the role of telltales on the leach of the main sail and how to get them flying correctly. Learn how to adjust the twist of the main sail by manipulating the main sheet, boom position, and understanding wind speed variations along the mast. Through practical demonstrations, we show you how to achieve balanced sail trim from top to bottom, ensuring your main sail operates at its maximum efficiency. Also Watch: https://youtu.be/ANAf-jvJpv4 https://youtu.be/n2judNfF8FY 00:00 Introduction to Advanced Sail Trim 00:07 Understanding Main Sail Trim 00:31 Adjusting Main Sail Twist 01:15 Practical Demonstration of Sail Trim 02:03 Optimizing Sail Performance 02:49 Final Adjustments and Conclusion What's going on at Balance? Check our News and Media: https://balancecatamarans.com/news-media/ For our Balance Owners Community - See the whole series on the portal here: https://owners.balancecatamarans.com/sailing-your-balance/ #balance526 #balancecatamarans #sailing #sailingperformance