Happy Cat Hurricane Information, Review, Specs

The Happy Cat Hurricane officially entered production in 2017, building upon a legacy of inflatable boat manufacturing that Grabner GmbH inherited through its acquisition of the SEMPERIT boat factory, which had been producing inflatables since the 1950s. Grabner's core philosophy centers on producing high-quality, durable, and sustainable boats, meticulously handmade in Austria using environmentally friendly materials like natural rubber. The fundamental design roots of the Happy Cat line extend back to the 1960s, though Grabner significantly evolved the concept when they acquired the design.

The design goals for the Hurricane specifically focused on enhancing performance. Its hulls were engineered to provide increased buoyancy and reduced resistance, contributing to its impressive speed. An innovative forestay design allows for a super-tight jib luff, which significantly improves windward performance, while a convex hull bottom further refines the boat's shape for efficiency. The Hurricane is available with an optional carbon mast, enhancing its performance capabilities, with some carbon-rigged models reportedly reaching speeds exceeding 20 knots. It stands out from other models in the Happy Cat range, such as the Evolution, with its longer hulls, two reinforcing bow braces, and a larger hull diameter, all contributing to its superior stability and speed.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Happy Cat Hurricane is lauded for its exhilarating sailing performance, described as light, agile, and incredibly fast. Owners have reported achieving speeds of 10 knots in just 12 knots of wind, with peak speeds for the carbon version exceeding 20 knots. Despite its performance focus, the Hurricane is considered easy to sail, featuring hyper-refined control systems that make it both forgiving and responsive.

Its design allows it to be dynamic on the water, capable of handling high-speed races while also offering stability for all-day family outings. The boat's balance and responsiveness are such that sailors have noted the ability to sail it standing up with one hand. The innovative hull design, with its convex bottom and increased buoyancy, contributes to its efficient movement through the water and improved windward capabilities. Furthermore, the Hurricane offers enhanced safety in rougher seas, providing a secure platform for more adventurous conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

As an inflatable catamaran designed for performance and portability, the Happy Cat Hurricane features an open layout focused on sailing efficiency and ease of transport rather than enclosed accommodations. It is typically sailed single-handed or double-handed, though it has a generous payload capacity of 600 kg, allowing for up to four adults.

The boat's design incorporates practical elements for an open vessel. An available foredeck accessory shields the catamaran from spray and provides dedicated stowage space for luggage, which can also serve as a sun-deck. The inherent portability of the Happy Cat Hurricane, due to its small packed size, makes it a popular choice for RV and caravan owners, emphasizing its quick assembly and disassembly for transport and storage.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Happy Cat Hurricane consistently praise its exceptional speed and high-performance capabilities. Many have recorded impressive speeds, with some reporting reaching 22 knots with two people aboard. The boat's handling characteristics are frequently highlighted as a strength, with owners noting its ease of control and responsive nature, even at high speeds. The Hurricane is widely regarded as a top-specification model within Grabner's inflatable catamaran range, often referred to as the "Cadillac" of its series. Owners appreciate the robust construction and the feeling of quality inherent in a Grabner product. While forum discussions among owners frequently revolve around assembly processes and comparisons with other Happy Cat models, no significant recurring design or manufacturing problems are widely reported.