Trac-16 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Trac-16 was designed by Steve Nichols, with its production commencing in 1983. AMF Corp., a conglomerate known for its industrial roots and later its expansion into leisure, had acquired Alcort in 1969, bringing popular small sailboats like the Sunfish and Sailfish under its "AMF/Alcort Division" brand. This acquisition reflected AMF's strategy of diversifying into leisure-based industries, and the Trac-16 fit well within this portfolio of accessible small craft. The design philosophy behind the Trac-16 aimed to create a catamaran that was both exciting to sail and forgiving for new multihull enthusiasts, distinguishing itself with features intended to enhance stability and ease of handling. AMF's involvement ensured a structured production environment, benefiting from the financial backing of a large corporation during a period of growth in the marine sector. Production of the Trac-16 largely continued until AMF divested its marine holdings around 1985, as the company shifted focus back to its core bowling business.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a catamaran, the Trac-16 offers a distinct sailing experience compared to monohulls. With a length overall of 16.42 feet and a beam of 8 feet, its wide stance contributes significantly to its inherent stability. The boat is designed to be "user friendly" and is notably "very hard to pearl dive," a common concern with some catamarans where the bows can dig into the water. This characteristic makes it a more forgiving boat, especially for those new to multihull sailing. Owners frequently describe it as fast for a recreational model, providing an exciting ride without being overly demanding. Its fiberglass hull construction ensures a lightweight yet durable platform, weighing in at just 359 pounds, which contributes to its agility and responsiveness on the water. The Trac-16 is equipped with a fractional sloop rig, providing ample sail area (194 square feet) for good performance in various wind conditions. The twin rudders, characteristic of catamarans, offer precise steering and maneuverability.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its role as a 16-foot recreational day sailer catamaran, the AMF Trac-16 focuses on open-air sailing rather than interior accommodations. The design prioritizes a spacious cockpit and deck area across its twin hulls, providing ample room for a crew of one or two to manage sails and enjoy the ride. There are no enclosed cabins or sleeping berths. Any "accommodations" would be limited to small, watertight storage compartments for personal gear or safety equipment, typical of beach catamarans of this size. The open layout is conducive to easy boarding and swimming, reinforcing its purpose as a fun and accessible boat for short excursions.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the AMF Trac-16 generally praise its robust construction and its ability to deliver a fun, fast sailing experience. Many appreciate its stability, noting it as a good choice for beginners or those transitioning from monohulls to catamarans. The boat is often highlighted for its user-friendly characteristics and resistance to bow-pitchpoling. Like many boats of its era, some owners discuss typical maintenance items such as replacing drain plugs or addressing general wear and tear on older rigging components. Overall, the consensus among owners points to the Trac-16 as a quality-built and enjoyable catamaran, well-suited for recreational sailing on lakes and coastal waters.