Venture 15 Catamaran (1974) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Venture 15 Catamaran of 1974 emerged as a refinement of MacGregor's earlier Venture Cat 15 models, which began production around 1972. The most notable design change in the 1974 version was the replacement of the earlier "banana-shaped hulls" with a straighter sheer line, intended to enhance aesthetics and potentially improve performance characteristics, although the hull and sail dimensions largely remained consistent. Roger MacGregor, the founder of MacGregor Yacht Corp., was the principal designer for many of the company's models, driven by a philosophy of creating versatile, affordable, and easily trailerable boats. Operating from Costa Mesa, California, MacGregor Yacht Corp. was known for its innovative approach, often blending sailing and powerboating capabilities, even in its smaller designs. This specific model, with its lightweight fiberglass solid hull and deck construction, was engineered for easy transport and rapid deployment, embodying the builder's commitment to reducing barriers to boat ownership.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a compact catamaran with a length overall of 14.75 feet and a beam of 7.5 feet, the Venture 15 Catamaran is characterized by its light displacement of just 230 pounds. This exceptionally low weight, combined with a reported sail area of 167 square feet, suggests a boat designed for nimble performance in lighter winds. Its fractional sloop rig indicates a straightforward sail plan, ideal for day sailing and recreational use. The boat's minimal draft of 0.5 feet allows it to navigate very shallow waters and approach beaches, enhancing its versatility for coastal exploration and casual outings.

Anecdotal owner accounts often highlight the Venture 15 Catamaran as a fun and forgiving boat, particularly well-suited for those new to catamaran sailing. Owners generally find it easy to right after a capsize, a reassuring trait for a small, lightweight multihull. Its dual rudders contribute to responsive steering, and the catamaran design inherently provides a stable platform, making it less prone to heeling compared to monohulls. The Venture 15's design prioritizes ease of handling and an enjoyable, spirited sailing experience without demanding advanced skills, making it a popular choice for recreational sailing on lakes and calm coastal waters.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact dimensions—under 15 feet in length—the MacGregor Venture 15 Catamaran is fundamentally an open-cockpit day sailer, and as such, it does not feature an enclosed cabin or any interior accommodations in the traditional sense. The design prioritizes open space for sailors and gear on its trampoline. The layout typically consists of two slender fiberglass hulls connected by a trampoline, providing a spacious and unsinkable platform for sailing. Storage is limited to small compartments within the hulls or beneath the trampoline, sufficient for personal items, safety equipment, and perhaps a small cooler for a day on the water. The emphasis is on functionality for active sailing rather than creature comforts, offering a direct and engaging connection to the elements.