Nacra 5.5 (18 SQ. Meter) Information, Review, Specs

As a highly specialized racing machine, the Nacra 5.5 prioritizes speed and agility over creature comforts. It represents a significant chapter in the evolution of beach catamarans, showcasing Roland's engineering prowess and NACRA's dedication to the competitive sailing community.

History and Design

The Nacra 5.5 (18 SQ. Meter) emerged in 1979, born from the innovative spirit of Tom Roland, the driving force behind NACRA Catamarans. Roland, an experienced catamaran designer, founded NACRA in 1975 in California, aiming to bring high-performance multihulls to a broader audience. The 5.5 was specifically designed to fit within the recently established "single-handed 18 Sq. Meter 'box' rule," a clear indicator of its racing pedigree.

Early versions of the Nacra 5.5 (18 SQ. Meter) utilized the standard hulls of the earlier and highly successful Nacra 5.2 model. However, around 1983, the design saw a significant update, incorporating a new, full-length 18-foot hull design. This evolution underscored NACRA's continuous pursuit of enhanced performance and refinement. It's also notable that a separate "Nacra 5.5 (non-18SM)" was available, featuring the same hulls but with less beam and a sloop rig, distinguishing the dedicated 18 Sq. Meter version with its wider beam and cat rig. The cat rig on the 18 Sq. Meter version initially featured a boom attached to the forward beam, which was later replaced in the mid-1980s with a boomless rig. NACRA's manufacturing philosophy during this era, as detailed in the builder's history, centered on innovation and performance, with a focus on producing durable fiberglass catamarans that could excel in competitive environments. The company's commitment to internal research and development, drawing on decades of racing and design experience, has been a consistent theme throughout its history.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Nacra 5.5 (18 SQ. Meter) is a lightweight, high-performance catamaran, weighing in at just 330 pounds with an overall length of 18 feet and a substantial 11-foot beam. Its design as an "18 Sq. Meter 'box' rule" boat explicitly targets competitive single-handed racing. While performance ratios typically applied to monohulls do not directly translate to small, high-speed catamarans, the Nacra 5.5's specifications inherently point to an agile and fast sailing experience.

Equipped with dual daggerboards and rudders, characteristic of racing catamarans, the Nacra 5.5 offers precise control and excellent maneuverability. The cat rig with its reported 193 square feet of sail area suggests powerful acceleration and impressive speeds, particularly in favorable conditions. Owners and enthusiasts describe the Nacra 5.5 as a lively boat that responds quickly to helm input, offering a thrilling ride for experienced sailors. Its inherent stability, thanks to its wide platform, allows it to stand up to significant wind, though like all performance catamarans, it requires active sailing and quick reactions in gusty conditions to prevent capsizing. Its design for competitive racing means it's optimized for speed and efficient hydrodynamics, making it a formidable contender on the race course.

Accommodations and Layout

As a dedicated high-performance beach catamaran designed for racing, the Nacra 5.5 (18 SQ. Meter) offers virtually no interior accommodations. The design prioritizes minimal weight and an open deck layout to maximize speed and ease of handling during racing. There is no enclosed cabin or cuddy, and thus, no headroom or dedicated living spaces. The focus is entirely on the cockpit and deck, providing platforms for the skipper to manage the sails and control the boat. This minimalist approach is typical for catamarans of this size and purpose, where the sailing experience itself is the primary offering.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Nacra 5.5 (18 SQ. Meter) generally praise its robust construction and exhilarating performance, considering it a durable and thrilling beach catamaran for racing and day sailing. The boat is often highlighted for its speed and responsiveness, making it a popular choice among those seeking a competitive sailing experience. Many owners appreciate the straightforward nature of its design, which contributes to its reliability and ease of maintenance.

However, some common points of discussion among owners relate to specific maintenance aspects. Issues with the main halyard can sometimes arise, with owners sharing tips and modifications to ensure smoother operation. Another recurring topic involves potential leaks, particularly around the daggerboard wells where the deck meets the trunk, suggesting that re-bedding in these areas can be a common maintenance task for older models. Despite these minor upkeep considerations, the general consensus points to a strong and active community of Nacra 5.5 owners who are passionate about the boat's performance capabilities and actively engage in discussions about maintenance and improvements.