Atlantic City Cat Boat Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Atlantic City Cat Boat begins with its introduction in 1980, a period when Mark-O Custom Boats began producing this model. The designer, D. Martin, conceived the vessel as a recreation of famous East Coast cruising catboat designs, aiming to deliver a "gusty high-performer" in a manageable size. Catboats, by their very nature, are characterized by a single large sail set well forward on a single mast, a very beamy hull, and typically a shallow draft. This design philosophy emphasizes simplicity, ease of handling, and often provides a surprisingly voluminous interior.

During its production run, which extended at least through the mid-1980s, the Atlantic City Cat Boat was primarily offered in two main lengths: a 21-foot version and the more widely recognized 24-foot model, which shares the generous beam and design philosophy of its slightly smaller sibling. Mark-O Custom Boats became known for their "well made pocket cruiser", building these fiberglass vessels in New Jersey.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Atlantic City Cat Boat, with its traditional cat-rig, is designed for efficient performance, particularly in coastal cruising scenarios. Owners often describe it as a "gusty high-performer," capable of making good progress under its generous sail plan. The wide 11-foot beam contributes significantly to its inherent stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway.

A key feature of its design is the centerboard, which allows for a variable draft ranging from a shallow 2 feet to a deeper 5 feet when fully deployed. This versatility makes the Atlantic City Cat Boat ideal for exploring shallow anchorages and protected waters, while the deeper draft provided by the centerboard offers enhanced upwind performance and directional stability in open water. Its handling is generally praised, with catboats being known for their balanced helm and ease of sailing due to the simplicity of the single sail.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its 24-foot length overall, the Atlantic City Cat Boat is remarkably spacious below deck, offering interior and cockpit accommodations that are often compared to those found on larger 30 to 35-foot boats. This impressive volume is a hallmark of catboat design, where the mast's forward placement frees up a considerable amount of interior space.

The cabin boasts a generous maximum headroom of 6.17 feet (1.88 meters), providing comfortable standing room for most individuals. While specific interior layouts can vary between individual boats and customization by owners, the typical arrangement features an open and airy salon. Owners frequently highlight the "roomy" feel, which allows for practical living and storage space, making it a comfortable vessel for extended weekends or short cruises. The solid fiberglass hull and deck construction contribute to a secure and robust feel throughout the interior.

Owner's Perspectives

The Atlantic City Cat Boat enjoys a dedicated following, with many owners expressing a deep affection for their vessels. This loyalty often translates into an "almost cult following" for its coastal cruising capabilities. Owners consistently praise the boat's "solid construction" and its ability to handle various sea states comfortably, qualities that reinforce its reputation as a reliable and "well made pocket cruiser." The robust build means that even older models are often considered valuable and worthy of significant investment, with some boats undergoing extensive transformations and restoration. Its spaciousness, combined with its ease of handling and traditional charm, makes it a cherished boat for those seeking a character-filled and capable cruiser that belies its modest length.