Nacra 5.8 Information, Review, Specs

The Nacra 5.8 began production in 1982, emerging from Performance Catamarans Inc.'s Santa Ana, California facility. The builder, under the guidance of Tom Roland, held a clear design philosophy centered on creating catamarans that prioritized exhilarating performance. This ethos translated into lightweight, fast, and agile boats designed to cater to competitive racers and performance enthusiasts. The Nacra 5.8 exemplifies this approach, built with solid fiberglass hulls, emphasizing optimal hydrodynamic efficiency and responsive handling. One notable design feature includes a bridle foil system, which allows for a larger, lower jib sail, contributing to less heeling motion. While significant "Mk" variations are not widely documented, the model has seen updates such as the introduction of a new square-top mainsail, reflecting ongoing refinements to its performance capabilities.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a 19-foot performance catamaran with a reported sail area of 241 square feet and a displacement of 390 pounds, the Nacra 5.8 is engineered for speed and agility. Its fractional sloop rig and catamaran hull type contribute to its ability to harness the wind efficiently. Owners frequently describe the Nacra 5.8 as a "fun boat" that truly comes alive in higher wind conditions. It is renowned for its exceptional speed and responsiveness, capable of being easily single-handed even in stiff breezes. The design allows it to stand up to wind well, offering an exhilarating experience for its helmsman. Anecdotal accounts suggest it performs particularly well as a reaching all-rounder, excelling in courses that involve sailing across the wind.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its design as a high-performance, 19-foot beach catamaran, the Nacra 5.8 does not feature an interior layout or accommodations typical of larger cruising sailboats. Its primary focus is on maximizing speed and handling for racing and spirited day sailing. The hulls are primarily structural and buoyant, with limited internal space. While owners may utilize the internal volume within the solid fiberglass hulls for storage accessed via hatches, there are no dedicated living spaces, berths, or galley facilities. The design prioritizes lightweight construction and a minimalist approach to facilitate its racing pedigree.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Nacra 5.8 for its solid construction and durability, noting that the hulls tend to hold up very well over time. Its ability to be easily single-handed, even in strong winds, is a frequently lauded characteristic, making it accessible for solo performance sailing. However, some owners have reported occasional issues with broken daggerboards, which might be a consideration for maintenance. The boat is generally regarded as robust, with one owner noting no issues other than a specific incident with a windsurfer in 1985. The active owner community also engages in discussions about potential modifications, including foiling conversions, indicating a passionate and technically inclined base of enthusiasts.