Alpha Cat 18 Information, Review, Specs

Production of the Alpha Cat 18 commenced in 1970. The sailboat's design originates from Tom Roland, a pivotal figure in catamaran development and the founder of the NACRA brand, known for its performance-oriented multihulls. This pedigree suggests a design philosophy centered on speed and responsiveness, characteristic of the "beach cat" genre. Glastron, primarily focused on mass-produced recreational powerboats and pioneering fiberglass construction, had a minimal involvement with sailboats, sometimes even acquiring tooling from other companies for their sailboat lines. The Alpha Cat 18, being designed by an external catamaran expert, aligns with Glastron's broader strategy of producing accessible recreational vessels, even if it meant venturing outside their usual powerboat domain. The model's production numbers were reportedly not extensive, indicating it was likely a niche offering within Glastron's wider portfolio.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a lightweight 18-foot catamaran, the Alpha Cat 18 is built for spirited sailing and ease of handling on the water. Its hull type is a "catamaran twin daggerboard," indicating that it features two daggerboards for directional control and performance upwind. The fractional sloop rig, potentially with a rotating spar, further enhances its ability to be trimmed for various wind conditions, a common feature on performance-oriented beach cats. With a minimum draft of merely 0.5 feet and a maximum draft of 2.0 feet with the daggerboards deployed, the Alpha Cat 18 boasts excellent shallow-water capabilities, allowing it to be sailed very close to shore. Anecdotal reports suggest it offers a lively sailing experience, often discussed in comparison to other popular 18-foot performance catamarans like the Nacra 5.2 or Prindle 18-2. Some unique design elements, such as a "goofy tube" running down the middle of the trampoline from the mast step, have been noted, which might influence its overall deck layout or structural rigidity.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its design as an 18-foot beach catamaran, the Alpha Cat 18 prioritizes open-air sailing and performance over interior accommodations. There is no dedicated cabin or significant enclosed living space. The layout typically consists of two hulls connected by a trampoline, providing an open platform for crew movement and gear. The absence of reported headroom figures confirms its role as a day sailer, focused on the exhilaration of being on the water rather than overnight comfort. The design accommodates the essential sailing components, such as the mast, rigging, and daggerboard trunks within the hulls, maximizing the open deck space for the crew to manage the boat.

Owner's Perspectives

While extensive owner reviews are not widely available for the Alpha Cat 18, discussions among enthusiasts on sailing forums offer some insight into its standing within the beach catamaran community. Owners and prospective buyers often compare it to more ubiquitous models, suggesting it is a capable, albeit less common, alternative for those seeking a vintage or unique small catamaran. The fact that it was designed by Tom Roland, a respected figure in catamaran design, often adds to its appeal among those familiar with multihull history. However, its relatively low production numbers, as noted in its specifications, mean that finding spare parts or a large community of current owners might be more challenging compared to higher-volume production boats.