Cat Boats

After looking them over and sailing one for a few days, I'm having a hard time convincing myself that there's any huge advantage to a cat boat over a cutter or a sloop of the same size.

 

There's no advantage to a cat over other rigs. In fact, most (cats) have enough to convince you another rig might be better, unless a very simple dayboat is the object of the search.

 

Cat boats do have the advantage of usually hoisting a HUGE sail area .

One sail with the area of 3 is a delight in very light airs , far less work for a day sail.

Sure it wont point as high , but who is racing claiming room at the mark ?

With scandalizing to reduce area , or modern reefing ,a cat is easily the comfortable choice for 20-26 ft of day boat or o-nite cruiser.

The centerboard helps for shore excursions on a beach, or loading on a trailer.