Tiger Cat Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Pearson Tiger Cat begins with a cold-molded wood prototype, also named "Tiger Cat," which achieved a significant victory in Yachting magazine's One-of-a-Kind Regatta in 1959. This success laid the groundwork for Pearson Yachts, a company already at the forefront of fiberglass boatbuilding, to introduce a production version. Founded by cousins Clinton and Everett Pearson, Pearson Yachts was a pioneer in adopting fiberglass as a primary material, revolutionizing boat construction with its innovative designs and robust build quality. The production Tiger Cat was built between 1960 and 1963, with approximately 160 units manufactured. Its creation solidified Pearson's commitment to diverse boat types, moving beyond traditional monohulls to embrace the burgeoning multihull market. The design ethos behind the Tiger Cat emphasized light weight and exceptional speed, reflecting the competitive spirit of its prototype.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a 17-foot fractional sloop catamaran with a hull speed of 5.33 knots, the Pearson Tiger Cat is distinctly performance-oriented, designed for exhilarating speed and agile handling. Its ultralight displacement contributes significantly to its lively performance, particularly in light air conditions. The boat features a centerboard, allowing for variable draft between 3.08 feet and 6.17 feet, offering flexibility for both shallow water sailing and enhanced upwind performance when deployed. With two rudders, the Tiger Cat maintains responsive steering and maneuverability, a critical characteristic for a high-speed catamaran. Anecdotal evidence from its racing record, including winning six out of seven races in 1961, underscores its competitive capabilities and spirited nature on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its design as a 17-foot racing and day sailing catamaran, the Pearson Tiger Cat's "accommodations" are focused on its open cockpit, providing space for crew during spirited sailing sessions. There are no enclosed living spaces, bunks, or traditional galley/head facilities typically found on larger cruising sailboats, as indicated by the absence of maximum headroom specifications. The layout prioritizes a functional deck and cockpit arrangement suitable for racing and recreational day use, allowing sailors to manage the sails and control the vessel effectively.