Supercat 17 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Supercat 17 began in 1985, following a dynamic period of ownership for the SuperCat line. The SuperCat brand was initially launched in 1978 by Bill Roberts and his partner under Formulae Racing Sailboats. After brief stints under Boston Whaler powerboats and Erickson Yachts in California, Aquarius Sail Inc. — a Minnesota-based company founded by Tom Haberman that began as a sail repair shop — acquired the SuperCat company in 1984, relocating all production to Minnesota. This marked Aquarius Sail's transition into a full-fledged boat builder, with a strong commitment to the SuperCat line.

Bill Roberts' design philosophy, central to the Supercat series, consistently aimed to "raise the benchmark in high performance sailing." The Supercat 17, with its fractional sloop rig and a length overall of 17 feet, exemplifies this ethos. A distinctive feature of the Supercat 17, unlike some larger catamarans, is its design without daggerboards, relying instead on its hull shape for lateral resistance. The use of asymmetrical hull designs, as opposed to the more common symmetrical designs found on some competitors, further underscores Roberts' innovative approach to achieving performance. Tom Haberman of Aquarius Sail also contributed to specific features, notably advocating for advancements like self-tacking jib sheeting systems, which would later feature on various Aquarius models.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Supercat 17 is celebrated for its lively sailing performance and stable handling, particularly in robust conditions. With a reported sail area of 234 square feet and a lightweight displacement of just 335 pounds, it is engineered for spirited day sailing and competitive racing. Sailors frequently describe the Supercat 17 as fun and fast, excelling in rough water and good wind, a combination often encountered in coastal sailing areas. Its catamaran hull type contributes to a maximum hull speed of approximately 5.47 knots, ensuring a thrilling ride.

A key aspect of its handling is the absence of a boom, which contributes to its reputation for being safer and more user-friendly, especially during tacks and gybes. The boat's design allows it to stand up well to wind, providing a stable platform even when pushed. It was notably designed to perform competitively against other popular beach cats of its era, with reports of it sailing comparably to models like the Nacra 5.2. Despite its performance focus, its dual rudder system provides responsive steering and control.

Accommodations and Layout

As a high-performance 17-foot catamaran, the Supercat 17's design prioritizes speed and open-air sailing over enclosed accommodations. The layout is characteristic of a beach catamaran, featuring an expansive trampoline between its two fiberglass solid hulls, providing ample space for crew movement and relaxation. While there is no enclosed cabin or significant headroom in the traditional sense, the hulls may offer limited, basic storage for small gear and safety equipment. The open design facilitates easy rigging and launching, emphasizing its role as a day sailer or casual racer where on-board living amenities are not a primary consideration.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Supercat 17 generally hold the boat in high regard, frequently praising its robust construction and well-engineered design. Many attest to its durability, noting that these boats, despite their age, often remain structurally sound. The lack of a boom and daggerboards is often cited as a significant advantage, simplifying handling and reducing potential for injury or maintenance.

However, common maintenance points for older Supercat 17s often include issues with the original drain plugs, which owners sometimes re-bed to prevent leaks. Some owners have also noted concerns about transom strength or leaking issues related to original transom hatches. Despite these minor age-related concerns, the Supercat 17 maintains a dedicated following, with owners appreciating its blend of performance, stability, and straightforward operation, particularly its ability to excel in a variety of wind and sea conditions. The rigging, particularly its "massive extruded mast," can present some difficulties for single-handed setup compared to some other models.