BUTTERFLY
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 12 ft |
| Beam | 4.5 ft |
| Draft | 2.33 ft/ 1.25 ft min |
| Displacement | 137 lb |
About the BUTTERFLY
LOA above is from a Barnett Boat Company brochure. Current builder, Windward Boatworks, lists LOA: 12′ 2″ to extensions of rub rail.
The Butterfly is a 12.0 ft catamaran designed by John Barnett and built by Barnett Boats (USA) starting in 1961, with a total production of 10750 hulls. This lightweight vessel, weighing just 137.0 lb, represents a classic example of early American catamaran design intended for recreational use.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for casual day sailing, beach launching, and sheltered waters due to its extremely light displacement and small size. It is ideal for beginners or those seeking a portable, low-maintenance trailerable craft rather than serious cruising.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 137.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 3.49, the Butterfly is not suitable for bluewater or offshore passage making. Its light weight and small size limit its stability and seaworthiness to protected coastal waters and lakes.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include other 12-foot trailerable catamarans from the 1960s such as the Microcat or early Hobie Cat models, which share similar dimensions and recreational roles. These vessels are comparable because they prioritize ease of transport and simple rigging over offshore capability.
Performance
Market Price
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 12ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
2 reported issues across 2 systems for the BUTTERFLY, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a BUTTERFLY? 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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Used sails that fit the BUTTERFLY
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…