Edel Cat 15 Information, Review, Specs

The Edel Cat 15 emerged during a pivotal period for Edel, as the company, founded by brothers Maurice and Pierre Edel, expanded its expertise into the burgeoning multihull market. Production of the Edel Cat 15 commenced in 1984, coinciding with Edel's broader venture into catamaran manufacturing, which began around 1983 with models like the Cat 15 and the larger Cat 26. The builder's commitment to fiberglass construction, a material Maurice Edel championed early on, was central to the Cat 15's design, ensuring a lightweight yet robust structure. While specific details about the individual designer are not widely documented beyond attributing the design to the "Edel" bureau, the Cat 15 reflects the builder's overarching ethos of creating practical, reliable, and often trailerable boats for recreational sailors. The production run for the Edel Cat 15 continued until 1995, aligning with the cessation of Edel's overall yacht manufacturing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a small, lightweight catamaran with a length overall of just over 15 feet (15.26 ft), the Edel Cat 15 is engineered for spirited day sailing. Its design as a fractional sloop with a reported sail area of 146 square feet suggests a boat that is responsive and quick to accelerate in a breeze. The Cat 15 features a remarkably shallow maximum draft of only 0.5 feet, allowing it to be sailed very close to beaches and access shallower waters, a key advantage for a recreational multihull. With a hull type classified as a catamaran, it typically employs twin rudders for steering control, enhancing maneuverability. Owners can expect the Edel Cat 15 to offer nimble handling and a fun, engaging experience, characteristic of lightweight beach catamarans.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the Edel Cat 15 is designed primarily for open-air day sailing rather than extensive interior accommodations. The layout focuses on maximizing usable deck space for crew and equipment. A prominent feature of its design would be a central trampoline, providing a comfortable and functional area for movement, lounging, and handling sails, typical for catamarans of this type. While not offering enclosed living spaces, the functional deck arrangement and open design contribute to its appeal as a straightforward and enjoyable recreational sailboat.