Chaser Cat Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Chaser Cat commenced in 1981, with approximately 20 units built in the early 1980s. Chaser Yachts, based in Erin, Ontario, had established its reputation by producing fiberglass monohulls, often with a focus on performance and competitive sailing, as exemplified by their International Offshore Rule (IOR) designs. However, the Chaser Cat represented a departure from this focus on racing, prioritizing simplicity and user-friendliness. The design goal for the Chaser Cat appears to have been centered on creating a small, easily managed sailboat. Its cat-rig, an unstayed mast positioned far forward carrying a single main sail, is inherently simple to set up and sail, making it suitable for less experienced sailors or those seeking a minimalist approach to boating. Built with a solid fiberglass hull and deck, the Chaser Cat followed the durable construction practices characteristic of Chaser Yachts during that era.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Chaser Cat, with a length overall of 16.33 feet and a waterline length of 15.5 feet, offers an engaging sailing experience. Its cat-rig allows for straightforward handling, making it quite easy to single-hand. The boat features a centerboard keel, providing flexibility in draft for shallow water exploration while still offering good lateral resistance for sailing. While praised for its ease of use, one noted characteristic of the Chaser Cat's performance is its limited efficiency when sailing directly upwind. This is a common trade-off for the simplicity and broad-reaching ability of a cat-rigged vessel.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its modest dimensions, the Chaser Cat provides minimal interior accommodations, primarily designed for day sailing or very short overnight stays. The interior layout is basic, typical of small boats of its class and era, generally offering a cuddy cabin that serves as a sheltered space for storage or a brief respite from the elements. Specific details regarding headroom, galley facilities, or dedicated sleeping berths are not widely documented. The emphasis of the Chaser Cat's design was on the open cockpit and ease of sailing, rather than extensive interior comfort or living space.