Trac-14 Information, Review, Specs

The Trac-14 began its life in Australia as the Surfcat, later evolving into the Windrush 14 in 1976, designed by Richard and Jay McFarlane. AMF Alcort, a prominent name in the small sailboat market through its acquisition by AMF Corp. in 1969, secured a license to build the catamaran in the United States, branding it as the Trac-14. Production of the Trac-14 commenced in 1980, continuing a legacy of producing beloved sailing dinghies under the AMF/Alcort division, which included iconic models like the Sunfish and Sailfish. The original design intent was to create a competitive one-design racer, balancing performance with user-friendliness. A practical design feature of the Trac-14 is its ability to reduce its beam from 7.5 feet to 6.25 feet, facilitating easier trailering.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a lightweight 14-foot catamaran with a reported sail area of 148 square feet and a displacement of just 195 pounds, the Trac-14 is engineered for quick acceleration and nimble handling typical of a beach cat. Its broad beam of 7.5 feet provides inherent stability, allowing it to stand up to a breeze and deliver a responsive sailing experience. Owners have consistently praised the Trac-14 for being an "easy" boat to sail, with some even calling it their favorite catamaran due to its straightforward nature and "easiest to sail" characteristics. While it offers a spirited ride, the design aims for accessibility, making it a suitable choice for novice sailors learning the ropes of multihull sailing. Discussions among owners sometimes highlight the unique design of its rudder system.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact 14-foot length and catamaran hull type, the AMF Trac-14 does not feature traditional interior accommodations or enclosed living spaces. Instead, its design is focused entirely on open-deck functionality for day sailing. The layout typically consists of a trampoline stretched between the two hulls, providing ample space for crew members to move about, adjust sails, and enjoy the ride. The open configuration emphasizes simplicity and maximizes the usable deck area, consistent with its purpose as a recreational beach catamaran. There is no standing headroom or enclosed cabin; storage would be limited to small, waterproof bags or compartments suitable for personal gear.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the AMF Trac-14 often commend its solid construction and its ability to deliver a fun and forgiving sailing experience. It is frequently recommended as an excellent "starter boat" for those new to catamaran sailing, particularly if acquired at an affordable price and in good condition. Enthusiasts have described it as a "nice little cat," appreciating its overall performance and ease of use. However, some common points of discussion among owners revolve around maintenance, particularly for older boats. These include the need to service or replace lines and rudder arm to tiller connectors. The original bayonet-style drain plugs can also be a point of attention. Furthermore, as a boat that has been out of production for some time, sourcing replacement parts can sometimes be a challenge. Some owners also acknowledge that while it's a great entry-level boat, its "ancient design" might be considered small compared to more modern catamarans.