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Easy Sarah Catamaran

Discussion in ' Wooden Boat Building and Restoration ' started by MCP , Aug 19, 2018 .

MCP Junior Member

Hi, This is my first post on this forum. I'm considering building a Sarah 12m (40ft) catamaran by Peter Snell. I was initially going to build a 40ft aluminum monohull but my current lifestyle will not allow that. Anyways. I have a couple questions regarding the Sarah and hope you guys will be able to answer me. Firstly, on some forum somewhere there is an active group or discussion on DIY Peter Snell catamaran builders. Something like diy-yachts.com... I can't remember. Maybe someone can point me in the right direction. < found > I'm quite comfortable with monohull parameters and their capabilities but I've just recently changed my mind to multihull. So I'm a bit in the dark when it comes to multihull design. I will use the boat mostly for coastal cruising but will have to do the occasional blue water crossing, Pacific, Atlantic and Indian oceans. How well is the Sarah designed? What I'm trying to ask is, how safe, in terms of structure is the Sarah? Will she withstand rough seas (should I encounter rough seas) on a blue water crossing? I know there are many parameters determining the safety and integrity of a boat (including the person operating the boat), but I need to know if the boat itself will be able to "handle" it. There is not much on their site and also no study plans available so I can't get any idea of the structural design between the hulls and the bridge.  

JamesG123 Senior Member

Out of curiosity, what about your lifestyle will allow a 40' cat but not a 40' monohull boat?  

I do not want to deviate from the topic. My wife recently passed away and we have a little 4 year old. So I need to keep him at home and need to look after him all the time. I can't work away from home with him. So I need to build on site (at my house) and I do not have the space to build a 40ft mono as it requires all the space at once. With the 40ft multihull I can build in stages and by the time the hulls are completed I can move site and put the whole thing together. By that time the little one should be old enough to take with off site (away from home) without me having to attend to him all the time. I do have space length wise but not for the beam. The 40ft mono has a 4meter (13ft) beam whereas the hulls for the multi is less than half that. That is it in short. It is a bit complicated... By the way, I found the site I was looking for: diy-yachts.com  

Sorry for your loss. That makes sense. Best of luck.  

rwatson Senior Member

Your situation with a young child really does call for careful logistical planning Just out of curiosity, I wonder if you would benefit from considering an alternate multihull ? The building methods are far simpler and less onerous than a two hulled plywood boat. CRUISER 60 – PERU – Harryproa http://harryproa.com/?p=488 "They are very safe and easy to sail. The crew sits in the sheltered cockpit on the windward hull, able to see most of the horizon, including the danger zone which is usually blanketed by deck sweeping genoas. They never have to venture outside the beams onto pitching, wet foredecks. The full ends, no rocker, centralised weight and location of the crew makes for a much more comfortable ride. The skipper, crew and passengers are all able to sit together, with very little effort and no movement required for gybes or tacks. Sails on an unstayed rig can be hoisted lowered and reefed on any point of sail in any wind strength. This is safer, and much easier than having to luff head to wind. Shunting is not only easy, it is low stress and can be reversed at any stage. There is no chance of getting in irons, no flogging sheets or traveller cars to catch unwary fingers, no picking the right time or surfing uncontrollably down a wave. In a person (or hat) overboard situation, the boat can be stopped in seconds and sailed back to them, then stopped again to get them onboard."  

Richard Woods Woods Designs

Do you really need a multihull as large as 40ft? Especially if you are building/sailing it singlehanded and have a young child to look after in the boatyard and then on board. You will find a 32-35ft cat plenty big enough and probably less than half the build time. There are a number of "cuddy" catamarans around that make it easy to build in sections. My 34ft Romany would be ideal for you for example. Check out Rosie Swale to see what can be done with a small catamaran and two young children Good luck with whatever project you choose Richard Woods of Woods Designs www.sailingcatamarans.com  

rwatson said: ↑ Your situation with a young child really does call for careful logistical planning Just out of curiosity, I wonder if you would benefit from considering an alternate multihull ? The building methods are far simpler and less onerous than a two hulled plywood boat. CRUISER 60 – PERU – Harryproa http://harryproa.com/?p=488 "They are very safe and easy to sail. The crew sits in the sheltered cockpit on the windward hull, able to see most of the horizon, including the danger zone which is usually blanketed by deck sweeping genoas. They never have to venture outside the beams onto pitching, wet foredecks. The full ends, no rocker, centralised weight and location of the crew makes for a much more comfortable ride. The skipper, crew and passengers are all able to sit together, with very little effort and no movement required for gybes or tacks. Sails on an unstayed rig can be hoisted lowered and reefed on any point of sail in any wind strength. This is safer, and much easier than having to luff head to wind. Shunting is not only easy, it is low stress and can be reversed at any stage. There is no chance of getting in irons, no flogging sheets or traveller cars to catch unwary fingers, no picking the right time or surfing uncontrollably down a wave. In a person (or hat) overboard situation, the boat can be stopped in seconds and sailed back to them, then stopped again to get them onboard." View attachment 142584 View attachment 142585 Click to expand...

Hi Richard, I had a look at your designs as well. Very nice designs. The whole thing is like rwatson said: "logistical planning" I still need to earn an income. So lets say it will take me at least 5 years to build. By that time he will be 9. But I'm guessing more like 7 years, that will make him 11. A capable deckhand. But I have other plans too. So I need the 40ft and also have the space to build a 40ft multihull. But the question is back to the Sarah? Thanks  

MCP said: ↑ Hi, Thanks, they look like very nice boats but too many things that can break. I need a simple long range cruiser. Click to expand...

The Harryproa boats are clever, but I think the OP has settled on the Sarah design and is asking specifically about it.  

If I was wanting an unbiased yet intelligent opinion of the Sarah design I'd ask Catsketcher, I'm sure he'll post here soon RW  

sailhand Senior Member

Hi mcp don't let the name "easy" fool you, nothing could be further from the truth. I have known several of these builds and the experience has been , shall we say less than rewarding. The resale on these vessels in australia is far lower than the cost of materials. Have a look at yachthub for an a idea of resale value. Bear in mind that sale prices in australia are usually around 75% of asking price. Personally I think they have a reasonably good layout however I am not a fan of the hull shape, a bit too much rocker for my taste, each to their own. The latest schionning or oram design is a much better bet in my totally flawed and ill informed opinion. I will add that I am a friend and fan of oram design and have lived on one for 14 years. We normally beat everyone to the next anchorage and the build is the simplest I have ever seen by a huge margin. In a kit form I was involved in two hulls with bridgedeck and all the bulkheads in around three weeks. You walk on the keel panel so minimal fitout/weight/expense and the hull shape is quite good. Go with boards and kick up rudders I think it is really hard to beat that combination, many others would disagree, each to their own. If you check out 44c's posts on the cruisers forum you will see a great way to mount outboards. My boat is diesel shaft drives on a very shallow angle with boards and kick up rudders. My boat sits on the beach a lot and I have never had any problems. Where I sit mini keel boats have a lot of problems with damage to their keels and rudders. A large flat keel panel with little rocker makes for a great pad to sit on. I would do outboards if I did it again, simpler and cheaper. With your situation, given build space and schedule, assembling your own kit over a few years may be the best option. You save lots of money and the components can be easily stored. Boards/cases and rudders take some time and are also easy to store. Resin infusing foam panels is the way to go, much easier and really simple to do. The process is much cleaner and less toxic than hand laminating ply. End result is a foam boat with a much much higher resale value in australia at least. The infusion process requires minimal investment and the environment you are working in is much cleaner and dust and fume free almost. This is very important if small children are in the vicinity. As adults we accept protective clothing and understand the risks, kids not so much. Many epoxy projects of large magnitude result in the builders becoming allergic to the epoxy. By far and away most builders don't have any problems but if you do its all over. For a slightly higher initial cost, the two most important aspects of any build are the design and the materials. Bad design and cheap materials usually end up in misery and financial loss. The extra money invested initially will be returned twofold all else being equal. A foam boat in a good design is worth a lot of money when completed and the price difference on a boat that size would be under 10k difference in materials cost but the return would be huge. Good ply is not cheap and epoxy is a lot dearer in australia than vinylester , South Africa, I have no idea but it is worth some time to investigate. Foam also allows for a build without stringers frames etc. Your internal surfaces are smooth and easier to fair and paint and a far nicer finish than stringers and frames in my view. That's my two cents worth of absolute dribble make of it what you can, I am sure there will be many contrary views and goodluck deciphering it all. Maybe a good thread to start would be "if you were going to build a catamaran what would you build in what materials/configuration etc. Experienced catamaran sailors need only reply. You could ask the local blacksmith, or someone that has never been on a boat or built one but I'm not sure their advice would be very well informed. Good luck with whatever you do. Any boat is better than none Cheers  

Thanks for the replies so far. I did not get the answers I was looking for. But still appreciate your feedback. I'm still open for options. Schionning and Grainger will always be my first choice but not at that price. Not that it is too expensive, it is just a little bit out of my price bracket. I do have a short list of requirements from which I determine whether the boat is suitable or not. I still like Sarah very much. Might be hard chine which might seem little dated but I like all her parameters and looks too. Bridge deck clearance could have been a little more though. Something I've been playing with in my head is to do Sarah's hull in expoxy infused panels instead of ply... I still keep all the other structural parts, stringers and all. This will give me peace of mind for the long term. What do you think of that? I'm also looking at Mike Waller's 1100, 1160 and 1200 (More specifically the 1160 and 1200). What I do not like about his designs is firstly the high turret (or maybe it should be a bit more aft), it looks a bit out of proportion, and secondly the draft. Also think they are a bit heavy for the built weight without much additional loading capacity in terms of weight (that is if I read the values correct). But overall it is not a bad boat for what I want.  

MCP said: ↑ Something I've been playing with in my head is to do Sarah's hull in expoxy infused panels instead of ply... I still keep all the other structural parts, stringers and all. This will give me peace of mind for the long term. What do you think of that? Click to expand...

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Will cost go way or marginally up? Do you have figures? I still need to investigate. Time is not a real concern. But once again, will time go way or marginally up? Do you have figures?  

Easy Catamaran build

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20 Performance Cruising Catamaran Reviews

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Catamarans are exciting and fast sailboats that offer some great features. With so many types and brands to choose from, it’s hard to find which is worth your investment. So, what are the top performance cruising catamarans ?

The best performance cruising catamarans are the Manta 42, Dolphin 42, Leopard 48, and Fountaine Pajot Elba 45. The McConaghy MC50, Privilege 435, and Nautitech 441 are also impressive models. The best offer optimal performance and can sail a 250-mile voyage easily.

Have you just begun your catamaran research but don’t know which to buy? Are you looking for a performance cruising catamaran that’s worth the investment? Let’s take a closer look at 20 performance cruising catamarans and what makes them the best.

The Top 20 Performance Cruising Catamarans

Catamarans are racing ships that have slowly been making waves in the cruising world. The design focuses on lightness and simplicity. Combined, these two elements ensure a faster ship and make them great for long distances.

The multiple hulls on the catamarans offer optimal water displacement, allowing them to glide through the water with much less trouble than single-hull boats. Because of their design, a catamaran’s performance will vary depending on the conditions you sail them through. The ocean and wind will play a significant role in how fast your catamaran will go as well as how smooth the ride will be.

When comparing catamarans for speed, there are four numbers you’ll want to consider:  

• Bruce Number: The speed potential based on the power (sail-area) to weight ratio of the boat
• Texel Rating (TR): A formula that will calculate how long it takes to sail any distance
• Kelsall Sailing Performance (KSP): Potential speed of a vessel
• Base Speed: The average speed of a boat over 24 hours of sailing

These numbers signify a cat’s performance so that you can pick the one that best suit your needs, whether you’re looking for a fast catamaran or not.

In addition to speed, your catamaran should have everything you need to be comfortable on your voyages. There should be plenty of living space for you and your crew or family members. When choosing the best catamaran for your needs, consider how much gear you will have with you on any given trip and if the ship you’re looking at has enough space for all of it.

The Manta 42 is a favorite of many sailors. Its beautiful design has a high bow and an incorporated curved crossbeam, the latter being unique and making the ship easy to spot from far distances and onshore.

Typically, aluminum crossbeams are used, and they allow for more movement in the bows. Since the Manta 42 doesn’t use aluminum ones, the ship is more susceptible to cracks in the bow caused by stress. However, the width of the Manta 42 makes the ship stable on the water, and the narrow hulls make it great for slicing through the water with speed and agility.

The Dolphin 42 has the best balance of performance and cruising comfort . What is truly special about these boats is that they come equipped with daggerboards . These bad ass features allow the ship to pull into just about any anchorage, including the shallow ones. 

The Dolphin is made with a foam core, which is designed to make the entire ship lighter. However, this doesn’t compromise the performance of the boat. It makes it perfect for cruising through the ocean with high-performance levels.

One thing to keep in mind is those convenient daggerboards. If the ship were to run aground, the hull integrity could be compromised. And if the daggerboards are removed or lifted, they will expose the rudders underneath. These features don’t ruin the ship’s functionality, but it’s important to note them just in case.

The Leopard 48 is a catamaran that you’ll definitely want to see. The design uses some of the best techniques to ensure optimal speed, weight, and cruising performance. The hulls are narrow — like most catamarans — and are built to reduce the amount of water that flows on the deck. It also reduces the amount of sea spray along the sides.

The Leopard 48 has two bulkheads (one in the bow and the other in the stern) designed to keep water out of the ship in an accident. It’s designed for long journeys, and the vessel comes with everything you could want for everyday living.

Fountaine Pajot Elba 45

The Fountaine Pajot Elba 45 is a fantastic powerhouse ship with luxury at its core. The living quarters of this catamaran are impressive and are sure to provide you with every comfort you could possibly want, no matter how long you sail it for.

The designers considered everything when designing this ship. They’ve simplified the prep work for the sails, making it easier than ever to get underway. The build of the Fountaine Pajot Elba 45 makes it fast when sailing or when under power. 

McConaghy MC50

The McConaghy MC50 is on the smaller side of catamarans in the McConaghy brand, but that shouldn’t disqualify it. This ship was designed with wide-open concepts and high bows. There’s no doubt it’s made for luxury but can hold its own in performance and speed departments.

Even with its luxury items (such as its full washing machine), this ship moves through the water gently. While it’s clearly designed for comfort, it’s still a relatively fast boat. However, there is a downside to the layout of the boat. The helms are much more exposed than other catamarans, which could be a potential safety hazard.

Privilege 435

The Privilege 435 is a catamaran designed to go long distances. It uses a heavy displacement so that the ship glides through the water with ease. The vessel is also built with a low-slung structure to help prevent winds. 

A slight drawback could be the heat buildup caused by the sun seeping in through the windows, as there aren’t any outside shades or ways to block the sun except for the internal shades. The other downside to this catamaran is that the Privilege’s bridge deck has low clearance . Other than that, the ship is an excellent option for those looking for a well-built cat.

Nautitech 441

The Nautitech 441 is another impressive catamaran to consider. The interior is slightly smaller than some others we have gone over, but don’t let that fool you. This boat is full of great features to make your trip comfortable and successful.

For example, the Nautitech 441 is equipped with a rain gutter situated around the entire coachroof. This gives you the option to collect the water for your freshwater tanks, or you can simply let it drain off the boat through the Y-shaped valve.

It’s a fast little boat that can use either the sails or fuel to reach 9 knots in moderate conditions. That’s not bad if you’re looking for a comfortable, decent-sized cruising ship with a bit of a kick.

The ICE Cat 61 is a catamaran designed and developed in Italy. The ship uses a carbon mast and is very easy to use.

The ship’s size and the power-to-weight ratio allow for reaching top speeds that isn’t possible with a monohull. The living areas are also large and are perfect for entertaining, making the ICE Cat 61 a great option to consider when shopping for your new catamaran.

The unique aspect of the Lagoon 440 is the engine. It doesn’t not have to run on diesel fuel because Lagoon offers a fully electric version. This is great for those who are looking for a more eco-friendly way to run their boat. This catamaran uses two electric motors, which are mounted on each hull of the ship, but the best part is that these engines are almost entirely silent.

The inside is just as luxurious as the engine is, designed with families in mind and for long-distance journeys. It’s a ship that would handle itself perfectly in deeper waters and even in harsh winds.

Antares 44i

The Antares 44i is a well-designed catamaran that is meant for long-distance journeys like most catamarans are. The layout is engineered to give you the best views throughout your trip, and the cockpit is fully equipped in the event you’re sailing single handed.

The motors are installed in a discrete location and are almost completely silent, allowing for outstanding performance without sacrificing your comforts. There’s tons of storage available as well for all of the gear that comes with sailing.

The Catana 50 has a well-built design that is meant for high speeds and effective sailing. The daggerboards help the hulls cut through the water with little trouble. There is also excellent storage for your gear located throughout the boat.

What is genuinely superior in this catamaran is the ability it holds to turn itself around with ease and speed. There is no struggle to reverse the ship and maneuver it around the dock. Walking around on the boat is easy enough, but the cockpit setup and helm are situated awkwardly, so it requires a bit of walk around to use all of the ship’s controls. 

The Voyage 44 is a performance cruising catamaran that is well-built for a bargain price. It’s something that you just can’t beat when looking for a new yacht because this ship has everything you could ask for.

It’s designed with day cruising in mind, but that won’t limit it to short distances. What’s also great about this boat is the amount of seating it offers, fitting 32 people comfortably. The ship is functional, and the layout is designed to make traveling onboard the vessel as simple and straightforward as possible.

Atlantic 42

The Atlantic 42 is a fan favorite. This loyal following stems from the Atlantic’s look and effectiveness, and consumers seem to love how easy this ship is to sail and how capable it is for deep ocean sailing.

The size of the Atlantic 42 is something fans of this catamaran love. It might look small from the outside, but the inside layout is well done and feels spacious. The cockpit location in front of the mainmast takes advantage of the rest of the ship’s structure, making it a more flexible design than some other catamarans available.

Outremer 45

The Outremer 45 is designed a bit differently from other catamarans because the hulls are narrower than usual. This helps make the Outremer 45 a fast ship, but it’s done for safety reasons as well. The narrower hulls will prevent the vessel from skidding on the water as much as other catamarans. It also reduces any pitching you might experience from flying through the water at top speeds.

The interior is smaller than many other boats in this article, but the design doesn’t sacrifice your comfort. The cabin has an open concept to easily pull the outdoor seating into the indoor living space, meaning it’s perfect for entertaining and comfortable living. 

The Bahia 46 is on the bigger side by catamaran standards. It’s designed by the brand Fountaine Pajot, which has been building catamarans for years. In fact, Fountaine Pajot is one of the leading brands in cruising catamarans.

The foam core’s overall design, the high bridge deck clearance , and the low center of gravity make this ship an excellent option for deep ocean sailing. It will hold its own on rough waters as well, and there’s also plenty of space for entertaining on the inside of the ship. 

The Prout 45 is an excellent catamaran to consider if you plan to sail with a limited crew. The positioning of the mainsail and the mast make it simple to use and easy to reach. Also, the mainsail itself is smaller than other ships and easy to handle.

The interior isn’t like some of the newer models. In new catamarans, the concept is more open and free-flowing between inside and outside. In the Prout 45, things are more traditional but still comfortable. Don’t worry; you still have plenty of room to entertain and plot your voyage.

Gemini 105MC

The Gemini 105MC is a unique catamaran. That’s because instead of being designed solely by the builder, it’s a collective effort from the builder and many sailors who used the vessel. They wrote in their suggestions to improve the Gemini, and the builder used the most relevant ones to build the newer models.

If you’re looking for a ship for a cross-ocean voyage, you may want to consider another catamaran. Due to the ship’s size and weight, it’s less likely to make it across the ocean. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not a great ship, and this vessel is perfect for sailing near the coast. 

The Gunboat 62 is the first catamaran of this brand. The Gunboat 62 is an older model, but it’s still considered one of the fastest. These ships were also the first to introduce luxury to performance cruising. 

The interior is slightly outdated, and technology has advanced since the brand launched these ships. However, this boat’s overall performance is unmatched, though there also isn’t as much space available for storage. 

Marsaudon TS5

The Marsaudon TS5 is one of the fastest catamarans available. It’s designed with panoramic views from the interior, and the ship speeds up quickly due to its lightweight design and shape.

The ship can be challenging to maneuver, which makes it better suited for experienced sailors. While the interior still has plenty of luxuries, it can be considered bare. The designers want to keep the ship light to increase its speed, meaning some comforts have been sacrificed, such as space in the living quarters.

Unlimited C53

The Unlimited C53 is a fast racing catamaran with all the comforts of a cruising ship. The design uses a new technique of connecting the two hulls at 1.3m above the waterline. This is unheard of in most catamarans, and this feature minimizes how the ship handles rougher seas.

The ship uses all of the necessary tanks and equipment to keep the boat balanced on the water. Perfect weight displacement throughout the vessel makes it ideal for racing and long-distance sailing. The interior is also spacious and provides all of the comforts you could need. 

In the end, the best performance cruising cat for you is going to come down to your personal preferences and what you want in a boat. Each catamaran on this list is going to provide you the best features you could ever imagine in a ship. Hopefully, the reviews of the top 20 performance cruising catamarans will help you find your dream boat!

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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Are Catamarans Easier To Sail?

Last Updated by

Jacob Collier

August 30, 2022

‍ Whether you're looking for a fully-loaded version or an ex-charter, catamarans are a great option for boating enthusiasts. But are catamarans easier to sail?

One of the reasons for the popularity of catamarans is that they are easy to sail. This is because they do not heel over on the water, which makes them really easy to navigate. Along with this, catamarans are also really comfortable and provide a good sailing experience.

That being said, the amount of stability you get in a catamaran is only as good as the boat's overall design and its size. Then, there are also the types that vary from open-deck cruising catamarans to beach cats, racing cats, and bridge deck cabin catamarans. With so many options available, it pays to find the perfect choice that suits your needs.

If you're wondering whether catamarans are easier to sail than regular boats, then you're at the right place. As experienced boaters, who better to help you distinguish between catamarans and other boats and show you how to sail safely and enjoy your experience on a catamaran.

Table of contents

‍ Charter vs. Cruising

A classic sailboat is a monohull, which means it has only one hull centered on a large keel. The sails are in the middle of a catamaran, which is balanced on two hulls. That's all there is to it. The gap between the two hulls may be filled with a cockpit, a main cabin, and generally some netting, depending on the size of the boat.

You've probably gone on a charter catamaran or a hybrid catamaran. But not everybody is able to distinguish between the two, so keep in mind that fixed keels and high-wind flybridges are common features on these vessels, which are particularly intended for charter excursions. They also have a lot more displacement and shorter bows, which makes them perfect for close-hauled sailing.

Are Catamarans Easy to Sail?

Catamarans do not really heel over on the water, which makes them really easy to navigate. This changes the entire sailing experience because the boat moves differently on the water. This means that you must adjust the sails accordingly, and boaters also have to pay attention to other factors that you may not be familiar with if you are used to monohulls. It should also be noted that some boaters who are used to monohulls might find it more difficult to make progress in light wind and upwind sailing conditions.

Also, it's more difficult to detect when you're overpowered and need to reef when the wind is high since the boat doesn't seem to "respond" to the breeze. That being said, with the right amount of training, these issues can be managed, and boaters can enhance their sailing experience. Catamarans are a joy to sail, mainly because they perform well on the water and are considered one of the more comfortable options when the conditions are good. This is why catamarans are so popular amongst beginners as well as experienced boaters.

Advantages of a Catamaran

When it comes to sailing in catamarans, the helmsman can execute almost all sailing maneuvers single-handedly since the necessary lines are being redirected to the helm. The catamarans also have an auto-pilot option for less experienced boaters to use for more support.

Because the essential lines are diverted to the helm, and they can rely on the autopilot for backup, the helmsman can perform practically all sailing maneuvers by themselves. Having two engines and propellers makes maneuvering easier, especially when navigating inside a marina.

Another major benefit that is often ignored with catamarans is that they also make it easier to catch a mooring ball, which all boating enthusiasts will appreciate.

The low draft of the catamaran makes it easier to navigate shallow reef crossings, which is great for beginners who are just starting out. Also, catamarans allow you to anchor a lot closer to the shore, which is an added advantage, especially for beginners who are not as confident to go out in deeper waters yet.

This makes the catamarans a good choice for beginners to practice on. They are also frequently lighter and have less wave impedance, making them quicker than monohulls in some situations, particularly when sailing at reaching angles.

Catamarans were designed with increased living space and more locations for enjoying the outdoors in mind. The huge fly bridges provide additional space for lounging and partying, while electric davits make raising the dinghy simple. Because catamarans don't heel, they're ideal for everyday tasks like cooking.

The catamaran's main feature is, of course, safety, which includes having easy access to the control panel and being able to interact with the crew in the deckhouse, saloon, and on deck. Catamarans have a vast sail area, making sailing and maneuvering even in light winds simple.

Another major factor that gives catamarans an edge over other boat types is that catamarans give sailors the added advantage of using several duplicated systems that are important for onboard safety. For those who have never boarded a catamaran before, there are two engines – one in each hull.

There are also two rudders, which makes it easier to control without having to stay put on the vessel. Also, when moving from bow to stern, a catamaran provides level, even decks, and broad, safe passageways, with no climbing, which simplifies the sailing experience to a great degree.

A pro tip to controlling a catamaran while out in the open waters is to turn the wheel to twelve o'clock and work exclusively with the throttle control in order to use the engines rather than just the steering wheel while maneuvering. 

It is also best to familiarize yourself with the design of a catamaran before you embark on a journey on one. For instance, a catamaran is made of several parts. Knowing each area and what it's used for can make it easier to sail a catamaran, especially for beginners.

The majority of people are familiar with tiny catamarans known as "Hobie cats" – a catamaran designed for recreational sailing and hobbies on calmer waterways such as beaches and lakes. There are, however, several more types that are significantly larger and more opulent.

A cruising catamaran is a boat that operates on the same premise as a sailing catamaran but has bigger hulls with cabins and facilities. A closed building on the bridge, between enormous hulls, serves as a galley, salon, and living quarters.

Catamarans are significantly larger and more stable than sailing boats. The bedrooms are in the hulls, and each one has its own private bathroom. Sliding doors connect the cockpit and saloon in most cases. But, there are also larger options, which come with additional features that you should be aware of.

For example, the flybridge is an additional level on larger catamarans. The flybridge is normally outfitted with all of the necessary navigational equipment and a steering wheel, and an additional sun platform.

Reasons for the Catamaran's Popularity

Of course, what sets catamarans apart from the rest is their size and stability. A catamaran has greater room above and below decks since it has two hulls, which is also one of its main selling points. Cats are also popular amongst vacationers who prefer leasing a boat since they are more readily available than other boat types.

Furthermore, these boats have enough room for a large group of people and their belongings, with plenty of space to go around. But more importantly, one of the best features of the catamaran is that these boats don't tend to heel over like the monohull.

This is mainly because of the high level of stability that is provided by the two hulls, which keeps the catamaran level on the water, even when navigating through choppy waters. Also, since you aren't fighting gravity, the sailing experience is less taxing and more enjoyable, which is why cats have become the go-to choice for many experienced and novice boaters.

Another major benefit of sailing catamarans is that they are easier for beginners to get the hang of sailing and hone their skills. This is mainly because these boats do not require as much water beneath them as compared to monohulls.

This makes it easier to sail even in shallower waters, which is great for beginners. Also, because they have two hulls, catamarans don't bounce around while being anchored at night, so you can also enjoy a good night's sleep while on a catamaran.

As if all of these great features weren't enough to get you onboard, there's something more you need to know about catamarans. Cats are also significantly faster compared to other boat types, which is great news for adventurers and thrill-seekers who love to go fast on the water.

So, if you are one of them, the catamaran will certainly not disappoint in terms of speed.

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Born into a family of sailing enthusiasts, words like “ballast” and “jibing” were often a part of dinner conversations. These days Jacob sails a Hallberg-Rassy 44, having covered almost 6000 NM. While he’s made several voyages, his favorite one is the trip from California to Hawaii as it was his first fully independent voyage.

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• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

Neel 43 on test: Is three the magic number?

• September 17, 2021

Can’t decide between a monohull and a catamaran? The surprising truth is that a fast cruising trimaran, like the Neel 43 could be the ideal solution. Rupert Holmes reports.

Product Overview

Manufacturer:, price as reviewed:.

Until recently it would have been easy to assume the pioneering cruising trimarans of the 1960s and 1970s showed that cruising on three hulls has too many drawbacks to be viable for most, despite the extra space and speed they offered. However, the past decade has seen a resurgence of lightweight fast cruising designs, with spacious accommodation, led by La Rochelle-based yard Neel who recently launched their Neel 43 trimaran.

This latest model, a Marc Lombard-designed 43, is one of those rare boats that defies both expectation and easy classification.

The Neel 43 has the deck space and massive coachroof of the most spacious of cruising catamarans, yet is at least three tonnes lighter than most 42ft cats.

We we tested the Neel 43 in La Rochelle, France with an onshore, 12-16 knot wind with a slight to moderate sea. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

Another surprise is the low wetted surface area once the windward ama lifts out of the water. Each hull has a narrow waterline beam, so wetted surface area is a fraction of that of a catamaran of similar size. Combined with the light displacement this translates into a boat that’s surprisingly quick.

Neel 43 under sail

After hoisting the mainsail we cut the engine and bore away, unfurling the headsail with the wind on the beam. In only 14 knots of true wind we quickly accelerated to a consistent 10 knots of boat speed.

Sheeting in and squeezing up to a true wind angle of 65° – and 40° apparent wind angle – only saw speed drop by one knot.

Direct Dyneema cables, passing through a minimum of turns, connect the wheel to the single rudder. The helm felt beautifully responsive throughout the test, with a much more direct feel than is generally found on multihulls.

The windward ama lifts easily just out of the water, reducing wetted surface. Stability builds quickly. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

Tacking proved to be as easy as with a monohull – the boat reliably turned smartly through the wind, with speed rarely dropping much below five knots.

However, visibility from the single raised helm is restricted by the headsail when on starboard tack and by the asymmetric on both tacks.

That there’s a single shallow keel below the centre hull, instead of the two low-profile keels of most catamarans is an important factor in the boat’s handling. It undoubtedly also helps that all the heavy items in the boat, including engine, tankage and batteries, are concentrated low down in the middle of the central hull.

The result is a very comfortable, soft motion that’s easier than that of a typical catamaran, but without the heel of a monohull. In some ways it’s also reminiscent of the easy gait of a heavy displacement long keeler.

The helm felt responsive, with an easy motion. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

Yet, unlike monohulls, there’s no chance of a broach. Stability builds very quickly after 12-14° of heel is reached, so it takes an enormous force to heel the boat to significantly greater angles. This arguably gives more warning of being overpowered than catamarans, which may generate maximum stability at only 12° of heel.

In addition, the high freeboard means there’s a reassuring amount of reserve buoyancy in the amas, even if the boat is pressed hard in a gust or squall.

On the other hand, a downside of the Neel 43 effectively having a single fin keel is that, unlike most cruising catamarans, it can’t be beached.

Our test boat had standard Dacron sails, so a reasonable set of high-tech sails would undoubtedly see the boat able to squeeze a useful few degrees closer to the breeze without losing too much speed.

Easy motion

However, the reality is that the engine will be used in combination with the mainsail if schedules make a passage to windward essential. Motoring out of the La Rochelle entrance channel head to wind and sea gave a feel for how the easily driven underwater sections behave when motor sailing.

With the single 50hp engine at a comfortable 2,400rpm we made 8 knots, with a gentle motion that didn’t slow the boat.

On turning downwind our speed initially dropped to 6-7 knots at a true wind angle of 150°, until we hoisted the general purpose asymmetric kite. Although it’s not a particularly large sail, this brought the speed back up to 8.5-9 knots, producing our best downwind VMG of 7 knots.

In some ways The Neel 43 sails in a way that is reminiscent of the easy gait of a heavy displacement long keeler. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

When the breeze picked up a little to 15-16 knots true we sheeted in and luffed up to 115° off the true wind, accelerating to an easy 10.5-11 knots of boat speed. The Neel has so much stability that, even though the sailplan was now generating far more power, there was no perceptible change in heel.

All lines, other than spinnaker sheets, are led to the raised helm station at the front of the starboard side of the cockpit.

Despite its intrinsic speed potential, this is not a boat that’s set up to be constantly tweaked. The deck layout is therefore simple, but efficient. It’s also obviously a cost-effective arrangement, but doesn’t skimp through fitting under-sized winches and other equipment. A powered winch on our test boat took all the effort out of sail handling.

Port and starboard mainsheets – in appropriate colours – give excellent control of the sail shape, without a costly traveller that might endanger the hands of anyone relaxing at the back of the cockpit. The primary sheet is the one on the windward side, while the leeward one gives excellent control of twist.

All lines other than spinnaker sheets are led to the helm station. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

Headsail sheets are led through a single fixed fairlead. It’s a simple arrangement that minimises coachroof clutter, though twist will increase, spilling wind out of the top of the sail, when it’s partially furled in stronger winds.

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The optional free-flying working jib can be hoisted furled, so there’s no inner forestay to get in the way when tacking the genoa when it’s not set up.

If I was specifying the sailplan I’d also opt for a Code 0 for use when reaching with the apparent wind well forward of the beam, plus a large asymmetric shaped for deeper downwind angles than the test boat’s all-purpose sail. This would maximise downwind VMG in light and moderate airs.

Technical heart

An unusual, but appealing, feature of all Neel trimarans is the technical area below the saloon floor in the central hull – on some of the larger models this has an impressive 7ft (2.1m) of headroom, which makes for easy access and fault-finding. However the Neel 43 is smaller, which means this is reduced to generous sitting headroom and floor space is limited.

The central section houses tanks, plumbing and batteries, while the engine and steering gear are further aft. Further forward the space is dominated by a large number of electrical items and connections for solar charge regulators, shorepower battery chargers, inverters and so on.

The saloon opens almost seamlessly onto the cockpit. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

It’s great that these are easy to access, which also serves as a reminder of the vast number of systems that are often hidden out of sight and distributed around different parts of today’s increasingly complex yachts.

However, there’s a downside that can’t be overlooked. These systems are low down in the boat, close to where any water will collect. Fitting a couple of bilge alarms, and making regular checks when underway by lifting the access hatch in the saloon floor, would therefore be sensible precautions. Despite this drawback it’s still an arrangement that has advantages over many installations.

Loft-style minimalism

What about the interior of the Neel 43? Despite the design’s abilities under sail, in this part of the market it’s the accommodation that sells boats. Yet, once again, this is an aspect that defies comparison with others.

Both transoms have swim platforms. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

The almost seamless blending of indoor and outdoor areas is appealing, but far from unique among today’s multihull designs.

On the other hand, Neel has gone for the ultimate in a loft-style layout that’s refreshingly different. Masses of windows and large expanses of white fibreglass are balanced by just enough fabric and wood trim to give it some warmth.

Reed-style flooring also adds to a feeling of comfort, in the Neel 43 without increasing weight, and can be taken outside to wash and clean.

There’s excellent near-surround visibility – around 300° – when sitting in the saloon and it’s almost as good when standing.

Forward to port is a watchkeeping station with switch panel, and on our test boat a second MFD, VHF and Fusion audio kit, plus 12V outlets and an analogue steering compass here. However, it stops short of being a full chart table that could also be used as an office, so I’m typing this at the saloon table, which is a great place to work, with brilliant views and lots of natural light.

The saloon and galley area has a very open plan layout. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

In common with other Neel models, the owner’s cabin is on the same level as the saloon. A downside is therefore a lack of privacy, even with the curtains drawn and door closed. However, it’s a beautifully lit and airy space that would suit those who primarily cruise as a couple.

There’s almost no built-in stowage, although the deep bins in the ama outboard of the bunk will take several large kit bags.

Neat touches for every bunk include a reading lamp with built-in USB port, a folding coat hook for jackets, plus a fabric bulkhead-mounted pouch with space for a phone, tablet, sunglasses, notebook and so on.

These may sound like small points, but it’s surprising how many boats lack provision for these items and they therefore quickly get scattered everywhere.

Natural ventilation is primarily via an opening forward facing window on each side of the coachroof – one for the saloon and one for the owner’s cabin.

A berth is separated by the red curtain. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

There’s also a small opening hatch in the middle of the coachroof and another for the heads. This is a long, narrow compartment off the starboard side of the saloon.

Overall there’s plenty of space and a shower is included, though it’s not luxurious and there’s no option for a second toilet and shower compartment.

The second cabin is right forward in the central hull, accessed by steps just ahead of the galley. This is a pleasant space with more privacy than the owner’s cabin, though the berth is only 77cm wide at its foot.

A third sleeping area is outboard of the saloon table, aft on the port side of the saloon. This is open plan to the saloon, with curtains for screening, with a generous 140x200cm rectangular bunk with space underneath for kit bags. It would make a great space for kids on passage.

Bright accommodation in the owners cabin with views. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

For the charter market there’s also an option to drop the saloon table to create an additional double berth, plus small single cabins forward in the amas that are accessed from the foredeck, making a potential maximum of 10 berths.

Few owners are likely to want to sail with that many for long, but the flexibility of being able to cater for extra short term guests, without dragging the weight and volume of spare bedrooms around the rest of the time has an obvious appeal.

Engine is housed in the central hull, with tanks further forward. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

Given the price of the Neel 43 compared to other multihulls of a similar length it should not be a surprise that it has been conceived to be quick and easy to build, aside from the vacuum infused mouldings that are an important element in keeping weight to a minimum.

Those who love traditional joinery with hand crafted solid hardwood trim will be disappointed and the lack of a second heads will rule the boat out for some.

However, in general the relatively Spartan level of fit out Neel has opted for is appropriate for a boat of this style that’s aimed at a mass audience.

It took Neel 10 years to build its first 100 boats. In the current financial year, ending September, the yard has produced more than 30 boats across a four model range of 43-65ft sailing designs, plus semi-custom fuel efficient power trimarans.

The popularity of the Neel 43 means output is set to grow by a large margin in the coming year.

If you enjoyed this….

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There’s much to like about this design: it’s a cruising boat in every respect, not an outright speed machine, yet it’s one that will quickly leave the competition behind. While it’s not a model that will suit everyone, founder Eric Bruneel has a good understanding of how a vast proportion of owners use their vessels and has created a yacht that will exceed their expectations in many respects. A decade ago trimarans were a niche part of the cruising world, however, the Neel 43 shows the concept of a cruising tri is ready for the mass market. The design has already proved hugely popular and one boat is leaving the factory every fortnight.

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• Sailboat Reviews

TomCat 9.7. – Practical Sailor New Boat Review: Quality Construction, Unique Engineering and Stability Characterize the Father-and-Son Built TomCat 9.7.

This 32-foot coastal cruising cat, with above-average performance and spacious accommodations, delivers a responsive and rewarding ride..

Being one of the smallest cruising catamarans on the market brands the TomCat 9.7 http://www.tomcatboats.com/ “entry level,” but we find that term misleading and unfair. There’s much more to the joy of a sailing catamaran than speedo numbers. The 9.7 might not out-drag most of its rivals, but it can, we think, deliver more of what sailors are after when they turn off the auxiliary. And, in many respects, it makes shoal-water sailing safer and more relaxing. If you’re looking at a Maine Cat 30 or a Gemini 105Mc from Performance Cruising, the TomCat also deserves a look.

                                                  ****

After a career in engineering physics, Ted Strain retired in 1995. Before long, he and his son, Tom, were building catamarans. They started with a trailerable 20-footer (the TomCat 6.2). Designed around a single, foil-shaped centerboard and hulls with rocker enough to make the boat exceptionally maneuverable, she was a bit different.

In 2002, work began on developing the 9.7, a 32-foot cruiser. Ted Strain, kayaker, canoeist, and long-time owner of a McAlpine-Downie Iroquois, once again did the design. Tom, “with experience sailing everything from dinghies to 50-footers and university training in chemistry and physics,” is the builder/outfitter. Boats are built to order in the company’s 10,000-square-foot facility near Newmarket, Ontario. Owners have a great deal of input “from the type of resin through to layout, décor, and outfitting,” says Ted. They have delivered 12 of the new 9.7s since 2004.

It’s hard to design a cruising catamaran much smaller than 32 feet. People don’t get smaller as boats do.

“I began work on the 9.7 with ergonomics in mind,” says Ted. “It was important to have headroom throughout, but just as critical, I wanted people, be they 5-foot-2 or 6-foot-3, to be able to see out from everywhere.”

Anywhere you stand in either hull, you have a clear view through the side windows. Seated spots in the saloon offer water views, and there are 360-degree and cross-hull views from everywhere. With dual-companionway access, the 9.7’s interior is not only bright and open, but offers the vistas Ted was seeking.

He wanted maximum beam for stability. The TomCat’s beam is 16 feet; any more and trucking expenses start to skyrocket.

“I began with a shorter boat,” says Ted, “but I worried about pitching. By adding length, I was able to increase displacement and buoyancy in the bows and smooth out the ride.”

Owners report that their 9.7s have surfed down big waves and often deliver better than 10 knots through the water. Apparently, Ted struck the right proportions.

The 9.7 has a fineness ratio of 12:1 (length to waterline beam), which makes her quite slippery as cruising cats go. Even the hulls of performance-oriented cruisers like the Maine-Cat and Gunboat are beamier for their length. Strain placed a high priority on light-air sailing. The 9.7’s midsections are semi-circular (for maximum displacement with minimum drag). “I kept the entry relatively full,” Ted says, “to counteract pitching, but the majority of volume forward is above the waterline.” The hulls show slight-to-moderate rocker with centerlines that sweep up slightly as they trend aft to produce U-shaped aftersections. These reduce wetted area and enhance dynamic lift. “They also let us reduce the draft of the rudders,” the designer adds.

High-speed performance is governed by both waterline length and prismatic coefficient (used to quantify the fullness of the underbody). The 9.7 is lengthy (31.5 feet on the water) and comes in at about 0.58, or “smack in the middle” of the ideal prismatic range for hulls like hers.

A pivoting centerboard is the key to the boat’s behavior under sail. Pairs of foils (such as mini-keels, daggerboards, or twin centerboards) create a variable center of lateral resistance. The 9.7 has a thin (7-percent section) NACA-foil-shaped board housed beneath its bridgedeck. By pivoting the boat around this single, central point, its designer allows the boat to behave much more like a monohull. The optimal relationship between the centers of effort (of pressure in the sails and resistance beneath the water) provides her with a crisp, responsive feel on virtually all points of sail.

Perhaps best of all, the board will kick up rather than fracture, tear a hole in the hull, or fix in the mud. Multihulls have long been sold on the basis of their shallow-water capabilities; a kick-up centerboard has proven an effective means of safely exploring thin water. Also, when the board is raised, it still presents a fin that is eight feet long and draws 16 inches beneath the hulls. Says builder Tom Strain, “you can’t go to weather like you could with a full board, but you can sail effectively on all points in 30 inches of water. Her rudders draw 3 feet (down), but you can kick them up to less than 2 feet and retain steering.”

Generally, for cruising cats, the more clearance beneath the bridgedeck, the better. The 9.7’s 2 feet seem just on the edge of adequate. In addition, the centerboard box takes some space between the hulls, and we noted that even in a mild chop, the forward trampoline took a few splashes. None of the owners we spoke with, however, found pounding to be an issue or bemoaned the boat’s motion when powering into head seas. Tom, who has more time in the boat than anyone, says that when conditions are bad, he’s been able to cure the problem with a slight change of course. “The key thing is that all the water that ‘goes under the bridge’ has a place to go because clearance is consistent all the way aft to the transoms; the underdeck isn’t filled with a cockpit well like it is on some other cats,” says Tom.

“I didn’t want to have a compression post in the middle of the saloon table, so that meant that the base of the mast had to be well forward,” says Ted. To keep the center of effort low in the rig, he raked the mast aft two feet. The full-roach main is cut to raise the boom 8.5 degrees above horizontal to provide clearance above the cockpit.

“By having a boat on the wide side with a rig on the small side, we maximize stability,” said Ted. “For a cruising cat, we think that is essential.” Although the TomCat rates better than its closest competitors in terms of performance measures (see “In Context,” page 18), these numbers are still pretty far from the “top of the fleet” when it comes to cruising cats. However, given the ability to add bonus sail area (by means of cruising spinnakers, code zeroes, screechers, etc.), the priority of stability over horsepower seems an intelligent way to promote comfort and sea-keeping.

There is much more to a multihull above the water than below, so windage is an issue. Strain minimized tophamper and integrated the coachroof with the cabin house in an aerodynamic whole. The large yet attractive windows resonate well with her flat sheer, tilted stem, and curved transom.

There is no wasted space in the cockpit. From the end of the bridgedeck forward to the wheel is less than eight feet. The helm station is unique; there are wide companionways to either side of the central module, and the space above and beyond it is open into the saloon. Sociability, airflow, freedom of movement, and an “open feel” all seem well served. A unique two-part closure can be used to button up the interior, but an opening hatch just forward of the helm helps this provide “wind in your face” sailing most of the time. Controls for raising and lowering the centerboard and rudders, plus a manual bilge pump, are at the helmsman’s fingertips.

Clamped to the bow beam, the jib roller tacks the headsail as low as possible. Using an element of the bow pulpit as a “seagull striker” (or spreader) lets the builders support the headstay without using a bridle. Winches are outboard of the house and placed right for handling the aft-led controls. While an autopilot makes singlehanding simple for modern sailors, the sheet winches are a bit far from the helm for short-handed maneuvering under sail.

Sidedecks are perilously skinny. The handrail atop the house is positioned well, but getting from one end of the boat to the other still seems much too challenging. Shrouds led to the quarter do away with the need for a backstay, but they can chafe on the mainsail when the sail is eased. The standard boat comes with a fixed genoa lead. A genoa sheet track should be standard. Based on our test with eight aboard, the stern sections resisted squatting, and the design seems to function well under real-life cruising conditions, when the lazarettes are bound to be laden with gear.

Accommodations

The standard layout succeeds in several ways: It provides three generous, private double berths, all of the necessities are there in spades, and it achieves the open feel that was the Strains’ objective from the outset. Almost half the current owners have taken advantage of the builders’ flexibility, however, to make modifications of their own.

Like most builders, the Strains offer a choice of woods, fabrics, materials, and appliances. Unlike the majority, however, they go considerably further. “We can use carbon to make the boat lighter, but that adds to the cost,” Tom explains. “The boat weighs 4,800 pounds, but we have built boats as much as 800 pounds lighter or an equal amount heavier depending upon what the owner wanted.” One owner, for instance, did away with one of the cabins and made the port hull an owner’s stateroom, leaving space for a generator behind the stateroom. Some say they’re committed to “a 12-volt boat” and the simplicity and minimal weight of bare-bones cruising. Others put a priority on “the comforts of home,” despite the weight they entail. Hull No. 8, for example, was delivered to a Miami owner with custom touches including a faux-teak cabin sole, an upgraded Isotherm refrigerator, Sunbrella fabric, a custom-mounted TV, air conditioning, a 5-kw generator, Imtra lighting, Caframo fans, and a Freedom Atlantis Raritan head. “The builders went out and got everything we wanted. The hardest suppliers to deal with, believe it or not, were our sailmakers,” the customer reported.

Livability and practicality are well-served throughout. Ventilation, either via hull ports or overhead hatches (or both) is admirable. Stowage in the living areas is well-organized via cubbies, bins, and lockers that reflect not only ingenuity but thought and experience. Clear-acrylic closers for galley lockers provide an “eyeball inventory” as well as good security. Eye-level cabinet tops maintain the open feel. The head is far from cavernous, but space is organized and allotted well. Fit and finish are surprisingly good for a cat in this price range.

Given the Strains’ small workforce and close supervision, production quality is gratifyingly good. The boat has no interior liner and the brushed-white gelcoat combines with veneers and solid trim to tone down the “ice-box effect.” It is also easy to clean and self-evident when it comes to looking for deck leaks.

Performance

Powering out the channel from Miamarina into Biscayne Bay, Fla., offered us an opportunity to see what single-engine performance was like—one of the 9.9-horsepower Yamaha outboards wouldn’t start. The boat held well over 6 knots in flat water without straining. Noise and vibration were minimal because the engines are mounted on vertical tracks in their own semi-contained wells. Dedicated davits hoist them out of the water for sailing. It’s a slick and simple formula for auxiliary power, though not without its negatives. Outboards don’t produce hot water. (Many owners have installed propane heaters.) Gasoline is more flammable than diesel, and outboards have shorter lifespans than diesels. Pros include light weight, low price, and easy removal.

We’ve yet to get used to some aspects of catamaran sailing. Being isolated behind a house and/or beneath a hard top can seem claustrophobic. However, the TomCat is better than most at providing intimacy with the elements; hatches in front of and above the helm let air in and the sailor see out. In a building southerly, we set sail, and with minimum effort, settled onto the breeze at roughly half the 8-knot true-wind speed. Acceleration was somewhere between “dinghy-like” and sluggish. The TomCat is light and fine, but her rig is shorter and smaller than average. She developed just enough weather helm to feel alive. Steering response was positive and precise. She was clearly at least as weatherly as the handful of neighboring

test-boats, both monohull and multihull, that surrounded us after the 2007 Miami Boat Show. Sailing through a tack can prove challenging to a multihull in less than 10 knots of breeze, but the TomCat passed that test with ease.

At somewhere around 8,000 pounds (in cruising trim) Tom claims, “she can be expected to average over 10 knots on a reach in 15 knots of breeze.” One owner experienced double-digit surfing, while another (who has a generator and forward and aft air conditioners) says that he’s never bettered 8 knots. Our test sail, design analysis, and owner survey all suggest that the 9.7 is well-designed, slightly de-tuned, and very capable. It’s at its best short-tacking and in shallow water.

The TomCat 9.7 lacks the sail area to make the most of drifting conditions, and propulsion is not a strong suit. (Cruisers motor more than they like to admit.) While its relatively low-aspect ratio sailplan keeps heeling forces low, more modern configurations (with higher aspect ratios, greater roach, fatter heads, etc.) deliver more power per square foot. The 9.7 is a “performance cat” but not one that we would label “high performance.”

Conclusions

Being one of the smallest cruising cats on the market brands the TomCat 9.7 “entry level,” but we find that term misleading and unfair. Thanks to her central centerboard, she’s responsive and rewarding under sail. There’s much more to the joy of sailing than speedo numbers. The 9.7 might not out-drag most of its rivals, but it can, we think, deliver more of what sailors are after when they turn off the auxiliary. And, in many respects, it makes shoal-water sailing safer and more relaxing than do most its rivals.

In our assessment, the TomCat 9.7 makes good use of interior volume. Quality construction adds to its value. Clever engineering (like the rudder and centerboard assemblies) increases its capabilities. Being able to work in important ways with designer and builder to make the boat match your needs is an additional plus. Starting at $154,000, the TomCat is indeed a worthy competitor among the growing number of small, coastal cruising cats in this price range.

CONTACT: TOMCAT YACHTS www.tomcatboats.com

• Critic’s Corner: Tomcat 9.7
• Interior Notes: Tomcat 9.7
• Tomcat 9.7 Construction Details
• Tomcat 9.7 In Context

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Sorry to put this here but people need to be informed. The Tomcats boat company is No longer capable of refurbishing even a tiny Boat. Took my $2000 deposit paid May 2018 and destroyed my Boat after finally starting in September 2019, changed price demanded more money. Refuses to Complete the Job unless I remove My Complaint to the Better Business Bureau made in April 2020 and negative facebook review he has hidden from his page. Will not answer my Calls or Emails. Has started a shell company Called Encore Marine advertised on Kijiji (Canada) to get more victims without using the TomCat Boats company name. Beware!!!! He has a collection of other sport boats in his yard. There is a lot more to the Story. …. 2 YEARS!!! , 3 seasons ruined. I am out countless thousands of dollars I have invested in my boat .

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Fountaine Pajot Athena 38 Review – A Blast to Sail?

Large cruising cats have risen in popularity these days. The Athena 38 is yet another entrant into the catalog of cruising catamarans from Fountaine Pajot, France.

The product of two renowned Olympic sailors, Jean-Francois Fountaine and Yves Pajot, the Athena 38 is the second smallest cat in their fleet of five cats.

The Athena 38 is designed for the rookie skipper. The catamaran was made to be a favorite for a rookie skipper thanks to its simple handling.

Fountaine Pajot cats are known for their well-thought-out designs and innovative tech, and this particular one is no different. Here is the Fountaine Pajot Athena 38 review to help you make the right choice for your sailing holidays.

Table of Contents

Accommodation

The stern is 10 feet wide with a layout that makes it all seem like one big cockpit. The whole area is rimmed with comfortable bench seating, which can accommodate at least 12 people. At the port corner, you also have the six-person table, which makes for even more comfortable cruising while you enjoy the cockpit.

The hull and deck intersection is arguably the most eye-catching part of the whole boat’s design. The Athena is not a typical cat since most of them go for a large freeboard, which almost always makes the topsides snobbish. For this boat, the sheer line is tucked due to a large radius that allows it to rise to deck level again.

It’s a styling concept that robs the boat of some deck space, but then you tend not to notice this once you see just how much deck space there is. The hull design is also meant to give the Athena an attractive sculpted design as it ends at the swim steps.

The 38-footer has enough space to accommodate the owner couple and 3 more couples effortlessly. Though four double berth staterooms might feel like a little too much for a boat this size, the cabin placement makes the design workable.

Each cabin is placed on one end of the hull. Cabins are separated by the head shower. This symmetrical layout allows occupants all the privacy they need. Thus, the boat never feels crowded.

The Athena 38 has a low-maintenance interior that charter companies can make into whatever they like in as little as a couple of hours, and another group of cruising fans can get on board.

The cast surfaces give the boat a delicate look which is just pacifying when you are in the waters enjoying a cruise.

The boat uses the little space it has excellently so that the salon seems like an extension of the cockpit. At mid-salon, you have a large table surrounded by a deep lounge that is semi-circular. The navigation station stands off one end.

On the other end lays the galley with a 3-burner oven, twin sinks, and a huge fridge fit to store enough beer for everyone.

The exterior of the Athena 38 is curvaceous and part of the reason the boat is so inviting. Molded fiberglass for the exterior lines makes the transition from outdoor to indoor areas seamless. The thoughtful plan makes it easy to enjoy al fresco dining and still remain comfortable when you have to eat indoors due to foul weather.

The headsail is a ProFurl furling system. A loose-footed mainsail is hoisted and drops down through lazy jacks. When the mainsail is up, the cover stows firmly to roll around the internal battens.

The covers remain fastened to the boom boltrope groove of the boom. Keeping the mainsail down and flanked is quite straightforward since all it takes is tying the integral bungees and closing the zipper all the way to the end.

The Athena 38 is not only about beautiful design. It also packs a punch when it comes to functionality. The two Yanmar sail-drive diesel engines have 18 horsepower, which is enough to turn Athena’s length yet purr quietly with minimal vibration when the RPMs reach the maximum.

The engines power the Athena at 71/2 knots on flat waters, giving out 2,600rpms. When the boat hits such rpm with double-blade props and fixed turning, the auxiliaries consume around 4/10 of a gallon.

With a fuel tank of 40 gallons, the Athena can take you on your choice of cruise with no worries. You can easily access the engines by removing the cabin berth cushion at the back and the underlying panel.

O. Flahault Design proves that the boat was conceived to give the best when it comes to catamaran cruising. All the creature comforts you might think of on water are catered for. The cabins have the headspace to make them as comfortable as can be. This, accompanied by the interior that boasts exquisite materials, will have you feeling lost in a capsule-like paradise devised for two.

Why Charter the Athena?

Thanks to the ingenious design that steps away from the norm in pleasant ways, the boat is perfect for your sailing holiday expeditions, no matter what kind of cruise you have planned for yourself.

The Athena 38 outdoes itself both in terms of functionality and comfort. Each bit of the attractive boat is meant to maximize on your enjoyment once you get on board.

When a boat tracks, as well as the Athena, does even at 40 degrees, you will surely enjoy sailing. Under chute, the Athena 38 remains well-mannered even when the winds reach gusts of 25 to 30. At times you may even feel like she is slightly overcanvassed.

In Conclusion

In Athena 38, Fountaine Pajot has come up with an undemanding cruising cat that even the least experienced sailor can enjoy. The boat lacks nothing in the way of privacy or comfort, and the performance is commendable as well. At anchor, the boat is like a raft where you can enjoy some sun or dive. You can count on the Athena to attract holidaymakers no matter where it has chattered. Simple handling makes it about the adventure, which is a well-earned bonus. All you have to do is sit back and watch the water drift by.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Fountain Pagot
• Length: 11.6m (39.8 feet)
• Bathrooms:  2
• Draft: 0.95 m
• Fuel Capacity: 180L
• Water Capacity: 360-520L
• Engine number:  2

Have you chartered the Athena 38? If so, you are welcome to share your experience in the comment below.

Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.

Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.

8 thoughts on “Fountaine Pajot Athena 38 Review – A Blast to Sail?”

Hello,  I just read your article on Fountaine Pajot Athena 38 and I truly enjoyed reading the review. You have discussed each and everything which anyone needs to know. Everything is so well explained. The portion which I like the most is the Exterior that is wonderful. It looks very comfortable. thank you very much! I’ll check through the link and see if this boat available right now.

Thank you for the comment and yes, you can check if the Athena is available. You might be lucky:)

Have a nice day!

This is one gorgeous Cat. I see I can charter one in the Bahamas and the Virgin Islands. We are always looking for different things to do and places to vaca. I am going to tell my husband about this one and I will even forward this to him. What a great opportunity to have fun with our friends. I love it!!!!

Indeed, the Athena 38 is a comfortable and fast cat, I am sure you will enjoy the ride:)

Thank you for the comment and wish you a lovely day!

I am loving this Athena 38 Charter boat. I am not sure where they charter to, but I am going to investigate. I have a huge love for the ocean, it draws me and I love boats. I don’t think I can go wrong with a charter on Athena. Any charters leaving out of Miami?

Indeed, this is a beautiful boat. I am sure you will enjoy your trip on the water with this cat:) The Athena sail mainly in Turkey, so you will have to take a flight to Turkey to get to the pickup point. It would take way too long to sail from Miami to Turkey:) Please, let me know if you need more info. I’ll be glad to assist. Thank you for the comment and I wish you a fantastic day.

Hallo, wo in der Türkei kann ich die Athena 38 chartern ? Was kostet eine Woche ? Ich würde gerne Skyper werden und mir dann eine Athena zum verchartern mit mir als Skiper kaufen.

Danke für jede Rückinfo die mir hilft

Daniel Kipper 0176/32426102

Hey Daniel, Hey there! It sounds like you’re interested in chartering an Athena 38 in Turkey. That’s awesome! The Athena 38 is a great choice for sailing. To find out where you can charter one and the cost for a week, I recommend checking out some reputable yacht charter companies in Turkey. They should be able to provide you with all the details you need.

Becoming a skipper and eventually owning your own Athena for chartering is a fantastic goal! It’s a great way to enjoy your passion for sailing and share it with others. Just make sure to get the necessary certifications and experience under your belt if you’re planning to be the skipper.

Feel free to ask if you need any more information or assistance. Happy sailing and good luck on your journey to becoming a skipper and owning your own charter boat!

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A Good Appetite

A Weeknight Skillet Chicken Dinner, Rich With Greens

This forgiving and adaptable weeknight dinner stars tender chicken thighs, braising greens and whole garlic cloves.

By Melissa Clark

Melissa Clark is devoted to her vegetable C.S.A., even in winter.

If the overabundance of root vegetables like sunchokes, black radishes and kohlrabies the size of my head is the late-winter scourge of my C.S.A., the steady supply of braising greens is its redemption. No matter how many bunches of curly kale, sturdy collard greens and steely chard arrive each week, there’s always a place on my table for their floppy, verdant magic.

I sauté them most nights in olive oil with garlic and red pepper flakes, adding whatever soft herbs need using up. A splash of water, stock or wine helps wilt and soften everything, especially the hardier plants like collards and broccoli rabe. We pile them on toast, submerge them in soup, top them with an egg or toss them into pasta. And when no one else is home, I simply spoon the cooked greens into a bowl, sprinkle Parmesan over the top and devour the entire bunch all by myself.

Recipe: Herby Skillet Chicken With Greens

For this recipe, I nestled my beloved greens in their pan with chicken thighs , another weeknight favorite. It makes for a skillet dinner that’s not much harder than cooking the greens by themselves, but a lot more substantial.

I chose boneless, skinless thighs because they’re forgiving and cook quickly. But bone-in, skin-on thighs are a great alternative, provided you add about 10 minutes to the roasting time. Chicken breasts — either bone-in or boneless — will also work well. Boneless breasts have a narrow window of being done but not overdone, usually about 5 to 7 minutes less than boneless thighs, so watch them carefully. In any case, you’ve got options.

Ditto for the greens. Kale, collards and chard are my usuals for braising, because that’s what’s usually in the C.S.A. box. But the broccoli spigarello and broccoli rabe I tested while developing this recipe were also divine, adding pleasing bitter notes to the mix. Just avoid baby tender greens, which easily turn to mush.

Grated lemon zest mixed in right at the end adds some revelatory brightness. And if you’re a fan, olives or capers gives this a briny zing that rounds out the earthiness of the greens.

Serve this skillet meal alongside something that will capture all the savory, schmaltzy sauce — crusty bread, rice or noodles. Or you could pop a pan of root vegetables into the oven to roast along with the chicken. If they’re going to keep arriving, we may as well give them a chance to shine.

Follow New York Times Cooking on Instagram , Facebook , YouTube , TikTok and Pinterest . Get regular updates from New York Times Cooking, with recipe suggestions, cooking tips and shopping advice .

Melissa Clark has been writing her column, A Good Appetite , for The Times’s Food section since 2007. She creates recipes for New York Times Cooking, makes videos and reports on food trends. She is the author of 45 cookbooks, and counting. More about Melissa Clark

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