Play Cat (Escape) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Escape Play Cat entered production in 2007, a testament to Escape Sailboat Co.'s mission to broaden participation in sailing through durable and affordable boats. The company, founded by sailing luminaries such as Peter Johnstone, Tom Whidden, and Gary Jobson, pioneered the use of roto-molded polyethylene for small boat construction, ensuring that vessels like the Play Cat were exceptionally robust, lightweight, and low-maintenance. The design itself hails from the distinguished firm Morrelli & Melvin, celebrated for their work on high-performance multihulls, including the record-setting catamaran "PlayStation," lending the Play Cat a pedigree of speed and thoughtful engineering.

During its initial production run, which concluded in 2009, the Play Cat saw some evolution. Early models were equipped with an under-the-hull rudder system, a feature that appears to have been later revised or abandoned in a MkII version. This MkII also offered a sloop rig as an alternative to the standard cat rig, and a jib sail was always an optional addition for those desiring more sail area. Although Escape Sailboat Co. ceased operations in 2009, the legacy of the Play Cat continues, with FASTERBOATS of Canada (Nacra.ca) taking over its manufacturing as of 2012.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its primary goal of accessibility, the Escape Play Cat delivers an unexpectedly lively sailing experience. Its design as a lightweight catamaran with a length overall of just under 17 feet and a broad 7-foot beam contributes to its stability and quick acceleration. The designers aimed to create a functional product that performs well, offering a serious challenge to other well-known contenders in the beach catamaran segment.

Anecdotal reports suggest that the Play Cat's buoyant, canted hulls handle varied conditions with confidence, capable of standing up to 3- to 4-foot waves without issues, making for a secure and enjoyable ride even when the wind picks up. Its lightweight nature, with a displacement of just 250 pounds, combined with a cat rig (and an optional jib), makes it responsive and easy to get up to speed. This blend of approachable handling and spirited performance fulfills the designer's goal of offering a fun sailing fix that appeals to both novice and more seasoned sailors.

Accommodations and Layout

As a compact beach catamaran, the Escape Play Cat prioritizes open-air enjoyment and simplicity over enclosed accommodations. The design focuses on maximizing usable deck space, featuring a continuous and spacious trampoline that is engineered for snag-free use. The layout is remarkably user-friendly, characterized by having only two primary control lines, which significantly simplifies rigging and handling for new sailors. The fully-battened, boom-less sail further enhances safety and ease of operation, minimizing complex rigging and maximizing the joy of being on the water.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Escape Play Cat often highlight its key attributes of fun, affordability, and user-friendliness. The boat is consistently praised as an excellent entry point into sailing, particularly for those new to catamarans or the sport in general. Its robust roto-molded polyethylene hull means durability and low maintenance, which are significant advantages for recreational use and for those who may not want to spend extensive time on upkeep. While specific detailed reviews might be older, the general sentiment among owners points to a boat that effectively delivers on its promise of providing an enjoyable and straightforward sailing experience. Some owners actively seek parts and rigging specifications, indicating a committed community dedicated to maintaining and enjoying these enduring catamarans.