Dart 16 Information, Review, Specs

The Dart 16 entered production in 1997, marking its place in Dart Sailboats' esteemed lineup of high-performance catamarans. Dart Sailboats, originating in 1974, quickly established a reputation for innovative design and build quality within the UK catamaran scene. The company's philosophy centers on creating boats that foster "great class racing and fun on a level playing field," making competitive sailing widely accessible. The Dart 16, designed by Yves Loday, reflects this commitment, aiming to provide exciting performance that is also suitable for teaching new sailors.

Throughout its production, the Dart 16 has remained a popular one-design class. While the core design principles emphasize simplicity and durability, a notable variant, the Dart 16 RACE, offers enhanced features for competitive sailing. This performance-oriented version includes a larger mainsail, a gennaker, a double trapeze, an upgraded carbon tiller extension, a Harken traveler mainsheet system, and a jib furling system, elevating its racing capabilities. Another iteration, the Dart 16X, is noted for being stiffer, lighter, and featuring racing sails, a twin trapeze, and a gennaker kit as standard.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a light, 15.75-foot catamaran with a displacement of just 276 pounds, the Dart 16 delivers exciting and responsive performance on the water. Its design emphasizes maneuverability, allowing it to handle nimbly compared to many larger catamarans. Described as fast and seaworthy, the Dart 16 is celebrated for its ability to provide a thrilling sailing experience for individuals of all ages.

Equipped with a fractional sloop rig and twin rudders, the Dart 16 offers precise control. The use of durable Dacron sails, aluminum spars, and fiberglass foils ensures a sturdy yet performance-oriented setup. While capable of being sailed single-handed, it is designed for optimal performance with two crew members. Owners often praise its robust construction and its capacity to take a spinnaker, making it a versatile option for both casual sailing and spirited racing.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its design as a high-performance beach catamaran, the Dart 16 does not feature enclosed interior accommodations. Instead, its layout is entirely focused on a functional and efficient deck designed for sailing. The open cockpit provides ample space for two crew members to manage the lines and maneuver the boat. Key features contributing to its sailing performance and ease of use include a rigging system optimized for quick setup, reliable rudder assemblies, and options for mainsail reefing on Dacron sails. For the racing variants, enhancements like a double trapeze and carbon tiller extension further underscore its commitment to competitive sailing, while elements like a jib furling system simplify handling. The overall design prioritizes durability and user-friendliness, aligning with its reputation as a "fun to teach on" catamaran.