AQUA CAT 12
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 12.17 ft |
| LWL | 11.83 ft |
| Beam | 6.5 ft |
| Draft | 2 ft/ 0.42 ft min |
| Displacement | 160 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 4.6 kn |
About the AQUA CAT 12
At one time, the AQUA CAT was the worlds largest one-design catamaran class. (Later eclipsed by the HOBIE 16 & 18). Although the original American Fiberglass Corp. was sold in 1971, a slightly modified version of the orginal AQUA CAT 12 was being built until at least 2003. American Sail Inc. 7350 Pepperdam Avenue Charleston SC 29418 Tel.: (843) 552-8548 Toll Free: (800) 844-2399 Fax: (843) 552-7770 Email: amerisail@gmail.com
Designed by Arthur Javes and built by Amercan Fiberglass Corp. (USA), the Aqua Cat 12 is a lightweight, high-performance catamaran produced in a single year, 1961. With a total build count of 17000 hulls, this model represents a significant volume of early fiberglass multihull construction, characterized by its 12.17 ft LOA and 160.0 lb displacement.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for recreational day sailing and light coastal cruising in protected waters, appealing to sailors seeking a portable, easy-to-launch vessel with a lateen rig.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 160.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 4.79, the Aqua Cat 12 is not suitable for offshore or bluewater passage making due to its extreme lightness and lack of heavy displacement stability.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include other small, portable catamarans from the 1960s such as the Hobie Cat 16 or early Nacra designs, as they share similar roles in casual, trailerable sailing.
Performance
Market Price
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 12.17ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
2 reported issues across 2 systems for the AQUA CAT 12, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a AQUA CAT 12? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 2 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
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