FAMILY CAT 23

About the FAMILY CAT 23

Based on the 'James W. Hart' catboat design. (original plans reside at Mystic Seaport Museum - Garden archive - design #600). Molds were later used to build a Motor Sailer called the BLUE JACKET 23.(Collingwood Yachts, also of Canada.)

The Family Cat 23 is a rare, narrow-production catamaran designed by William Garden and built by Bill Boyd Boats/Halman Man.(CAN) in 1978, with only 12 hulls constructed. Its unique status as a single-year production run with a very low build count makes it a distinct anomaly in the cruising catamaran market.

Best for:

This boat suits experienced sailors seeking a lightweight, trailerable catamaran for coastal cruising or bay sailing, given its 6000.0 lb displacement and 10.0 ft beam which facilitate easy transport and storage.

Bluewater capability:

With a capsize ratio of 2.2 and a comfort ratio of 20.15, the boat is designed for coastal and protected waters rather than serious offshore bluewater passage making.

Comparables:

Comparable boats include other 1970s trailerable catamarans like the Microcat 23 or early Hobie Cats, though the Family Cat 23 differs with its gaff rig and heavier displacement relative to its length.