Arrow 1200/1201 Information, Review, Specs

The Arrow 1200/1201 heralds a "new era of performance cruising designs" for Schionning Designs, whose concept for the series involved looking back at classic principles to inform a modern aesthetic and function. Known for its "100% flat-panel" construction, the Arrow 1200 was envisioned to be sleek and efficient. The model entered production in 2018 through Pantawee Marine Co., Ltd., a builder with a strong reputation for constructing robust vessels to international standards, including ABYC and CE. Pantawee Marine, a family-owned enterprise based in Thailand, has strategically transitioned its focus towards multihull construction, a move that aligns perfectly with the development of contemporary designs like the Arrow series. This partnership highlights Pantawee Marine's commitment to modern manufacturing and their ability to deliver high-quality, custom-designed multihulls. While the 1200 laid the foundation, the Arrow 1201 iteration was introduced to offer a revised interior and cockpit, providing owners with more options without altering the core sailing performance. Additionally, a "Sport" variant, the Arrow 1200 Sport, was developed as a "high performance racing design," further showcasing the versatility and speed potential inherent in the Arrow lineage.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pantawee Arrow 1200/1201 is widely regarded as a "very fast and easy to handle catamaran," designed for an "effortless mile-munching" cruising experience. Its design as a performance cruising multihull suggests a focus on spirited sailing. The inclusion of daggerboards contributes to its commendable "upwind performance," allowing for better pointing ability compared to fixed-keel catamarans. With a total reported sail area of 936.46 square feet and a displacement of 11,574 pounds, the Arrow 1200/1201 is designed to be responsive and agile. The fractional sloop rig further enhances its handling characteristics. For auxiliary power, the catamaran is equipped with two electric engines, with an option for a single 30 hp outboard, providing quiet and efficient propulsion when not under sail or for close-quarters maneuvering. These features underscore its suitability for both exhilarating passages and comfortable, controlled navigation.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior specifications often vary between individual builds, the Arrow 1200/1201 emphasizes practical and comfortable living spaces. The design prioritizes generous headroom, offering 6.33 feet within the hulls and approximately 6.27 feet (1.91 meters) in the bridgedeck area, which contributes to a spacious feel throughout the interior. The Arrow 1201, in particular, features a revised interior and cockpit designed to offer more layout options for owners. Typical configurations for the Arrow 1201 have been noted to include two main cabins and an additional "mini cabin," along with two heads and two showers. The interior is often characterized by a clean, modern aesthetic, aligning with the "flat-panel" construction approach, which can maximize usable volume and simplify maintenance. Storage solutions are integrated throughout, catering to the needs of cruisers for extended voyages. The overall design focuses on creating a comfortable and functional living environment, suitable for both short trips and longer offshore adventures.