Nacra 5.0 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Nacra 5.0 entered production in 1982, building upon the foundational success of earlier models like the 1975 Nacra 5.2, which pioneered the company's distinctive plumb bows. While the builder, Nacra, has undergone several ownership and name changes throughout its history, its core philosophy has consistently revolved around innovation, performance, and a deep passion for competitive sailing. During the era of the 5.0's introduction, Nacra (then Performance Catamarans, Inc. in California) focused on creating accessible, high-performance beach cats designed for durability and speed. The 5.0 exemplifies this ethos, featuring fiberglass solid hull and deck construction.

A defining characteristic of the Nacra 5.0's design is its "skeg based" hull form, which means it utilizes fixed rudders and does not employ daggerboards. This design choice simplifies the boat's operation and makes it well-suited for beach launching and shallow water sailing, aligning with its role as a versatile recreational and club racing catamaran. It is also notably described as a "boomless" design in some configurations, further simplifying sail handling. While no specific MkI or MkII variations are widely documented, the boat was sometimes referred to as the "Nacra 500" in North America in the early 2000s, largely indicating vintage rather than a distinct design change.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Weighing in at a light 325 pounds with a reported sail area of 201 square feet, the Nacra 5.0 is designed for nimble and spirited sailing. Owners frequently praise its lively performance, often comparing it favorably to other popular beach cats, with some noting its "better design in the way of handling and performance" compared to contemporaries. The boat is particularly lauded for its ease of sailing, making it accessible for single-handed excursions.

Despite its simplicity, the Nacra 5.0 offers a dynamic sailing experience. It can be responsive to weight distribution, which owners find to be a significant factor in optimizing its pointing ability. Its design also allows it to accommodate a spinnaker effectively, enhancing its downwind performance. The absence of daggerboards, while simplifying operations, means sailors optimize their technique and weight placement to achieve maximum upwind VMG.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 16.67-foot beach catamaran, the Nacra 5.0 is an open deck boat designed purely for day sailing and performance. It does not feature any enclosed accommodations, a cabin, or headroom. The layout is characteristic of a small sport catamaran, consisting of two fiberglass hulls joined by a robust trampoline deck. This open arrangement provides ample space for crew movement and efficient sail handling, reinforcing its purpose as a high-performance recreational vessel.

Owner's Perspectives

Nacra 5.0 owners frequently share a collective appreciation for the boat's robust construction and the exhilarating sailing experience it provides. Many highlight its solid fiberglass hull and deck, noting that while older models may show signs of wear, they are generally amenable to maintenance and repair, such as addressing soft spots on hulls or chainplate issues. The active online community surrounding these catamarans, including forums like TheBeachcats.com and Catsailor.com, serves as a valuable resource for troubleshooting and sharing tips on rigging and maintenance.

Common discussions among owners revolve around optimizing performance through sail choice, with square top mainsails and various jib options being popular. Owners also frequently seek advice on specific rigging issues, such as rudder hold-down line jams. The Nacra 5.0 is often celebrated for being a fun, responsive boat that offers a direct and engaging connection to the water, appealing to those who prioritize a lively sailing experience over creature comforts. Its relative simplicity and durability make it a perennial favorite for those seeking an accessible entry into the world of high-performance catamaran sailing.