Cape Cod Cat Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Cape Cod Cat begins in 1971, drawing upon Cape Cod Shipbuilding's century-long legacy of traditional craftsmanship and innovation. The boat was designed by Charles Wittholz, a notable figure in yacht design, and was offered in both centerboard and keel versions. Although a specific end year for its production is not listed in the provided data, it is noted as a retired design by Cape Cod Shipbuilding.

Cape Cod Shipbuilding, a company that transitioned from wooden boat construction to fiberglass in 1947, was among the very first manufacturers to adopt this modern material. The builder's ethos, carried forward by figures like E.L. Goodwin, focused on superior build quality, durability, and a commitment to producing boats that would last for generations. This dedication is evident in the Cape Cod Cat, which features solid fiberglass hull construction and benefits from the builder's proprietary methods for bonding the deck and hull into a single, strong, and leak-proof unit. This manufacturing approach ensured that the Cape Cod Cat, like other models from the yard, would be recognized for its robustness and timeless appeal.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Given its length overall of 17.0 feet, the Cape Cod Cat is designed for accessible and enjoyable sailing rather than high-performance racing. As such, traditional performance ratios do not typically apply to boats of this size. With a displacement of 2,200 pounds and 500 pounds of lead ballast, the Cape Cod Cat is described as a moderate-weight sailboat that offers high performance for its class.

The vessel's cat rig, characterized by a single mast carried well forward and a large mainsail, simplifies handling, making it a popular choice for day sailing. Equipped with a centerboard keel, the Cape Cod Cat offers significant versatility, allowing sailors to navigate both deeper coastal waters (with a maximum draft of 4.83 feet) and shallower inland areas or anchorages (with a minimum draft of 1.67 feet when the board is raised). Owners and reviewers frequently note its stability and stiffness, qualities that are crucial for comfortable sailing, especially in varied conditions. While the centerboard version is said to offer slightly better upwind performance, it's also noted that catboats of this type, despite their inherent stability, can have a low righting capability if capsized.

Accommodations and Layout

The Cape Cod Cat, as a 17-foot daysailer, prioritizes a spacious and functional cockpit over extensive interior accommodations. The design provides a "perfect combination of day sailing cockpit space for four," making it well-suited for family outings or sailing with friends. Interior headroom is limited, measuring 4.0 feet, which suggests a simple cuddy cabin primarily intended for storage of gear or offering minimal shelter from the elements, rather than comfortable standing room or overnighting facilities. The builder's commitment to quality would likely extend to the interior, with robust construction and practical, durable materials defining its basic but well-appointed layout.