Cay-Cat Nassau Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Cay-Cat Nassau was introduced in 1965, following closely on the heels of the company's smaller Bimini model. Cay Cat Manufacturing Inc., established in 1964, dedicated itself entirely to catamaran production, setting up its operations in Boca Raton, Florida. The company's design philosophy was centered on prioritizing stability, a shallow draft, and potentially higher speeds, appealing to a growing market segment interested in recreational and perhaps trailerable multihulls. Production of the Nassau continued until 1968, although specific numbers of units built remain undocumented. While detailed information about the naval architect or specific design evolution of the Nassau is sparse, it represents a commitment by Cay Cat Manufacturing Inc. to the burgeoning multihull market of the 1960s.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As an 18-foot catamaran with a twin-keel hull type and a fractional sloop rig, the Cay-Cat Nassau was inherently designed for stability and efficient performance in lighter winds. Catamarans of this size and type are generally known for their initial stiffness and ability to carry sail in a breeze, providing a relatively flat sailing experience compared to monohulls. With a reported sail area of 180 square feet and a beam of 9.0 feet, the Nassau would have offered a good balance of power and stability for its length. Its maximum draft of 1.5 feet, facilitated by its twin-keel design, allowed for access to shallower waters, enhancing its versatility for coastal cruising and beaching. The fractional sloop rig, a common configuration for recreational boats of the era, would have provided a manageable sail plan, allowing for easy handling and responsiveness.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact 18-foot length and catamaran hull design, the Cay-Cat Nassau's accommodations would have been quite rudimentary, typical for a day sailer or small weekender from the 1960s. While specific interior layouts are not widely documented, it is highly probable that the interior comprised a basic cuddy cabin within one or both hulls, offering minimal shelter or storage space rather than full standing headroom or elaborate living quarters. Such a layout would have been designed to maximize deck space for sailing and recreation, with interior amenities being limited to essential storage or a small V-berth for occasional overnight use, if any. The primary focus of the design would have been on its sailing capabilities and its suitability for short excursions.