Phantom 16 (Catamaran) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Phantom 16 catamaran commenced production in 1988, emerging from the workshops of Centro Nautico Adriatico in San Mauro Pascoli, Italy. CNA, established in 1984, has a long-standing reputation for producing robust and safe fiberglass vessels, driven by a team deeply passionate about the sea. The shipyard's design philosophy centers on creating boats that are "robust, safe, versatile and at the same time performing," a ethos clearly reflected in the Phantom 16.

As its own designer, CNA conceived the Phantom 16 as a versatile and easy-to-use catamaran, balancing enjoyment with practical application. The hull is constructed from a sandwich of stratified fiberglass, a material choice consistent with CNA's four-decade commitment to strength, longevity, and low maintenance in their marine craft. The Phantom 16 is part of CNA's "Phantom Line" of catamarans, which ranges from 14 to 18 feet and emphasizes tool-less disassembly for ease of private or professional use.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Phantom 16, with its fractional sloop rig and a reported sail area of 301.0 square feet, is designed for lively performance and straightforward handling. At just under 16 feet in length overall and with a beam of 7.55 feet, it boasts a very light displacement of 265 pounds, typical for a sport catamaran of its size. This lightweight construction, combined with its catamaran hull form, contributes to its agility and responsiveness on the water.

Equipped with a centerboard, the Phantom 16 offers considerable flexibility in draft, ranging from a minimal 0.25 feet with the board retracted to a maximum of 1.5 feet when deployed. This shallow minimum draft allows the boat to sail very close to beaches, making it convenient for launching and landing, particularly in recreational and teaching environments. Owners and enthusiasts describe the Phantom 16 as easy to use and built to last, reinforcing its reputation as a dependable vessel for both learning and sport sailing. Its design aims to strike a "right balance between practicality and fun," suggesting a catamaran that is both forgiving for novices and engaging enough for more experienced sailors.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size of 15.91 feet, the Phantom 16 (Catamaran) is primarily designed as an open-deck day sailor, focusing on on-water activity rather than extensive interior accommodations. The layout emphasizes maximizing deck space for crew and equipment. One variant, described as a race boat, features "spacious C-shaped seating and storage under the seats". While the specific materials and finish quality are not detailed in general reviews, Centro Nautico Adriatico's consistent use of fiberglass for durability suggests a robust, low-maintenance, and practical finish suitable for its intended use in sailing schools, resorts, and family recreation. The design prioritizes ease of use and resilience, making it a functional platform without elaborate interior comforts.