Prindle 16 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Prindle 16 began its production in 1971, designed by Geoffrey Prindle. While the SailboatData.com records indicate builders including Surfglas, Prindle, and later Performance Catamarans, the association with Performance Catamarans Inc., established in 1975, highlights its place within a lineage of performance-oriented multihulls. This connection aligned the Prindle 16 with a builder whose core design philosophy centered on creating lightweight, fast, and agile boats. Constructed with a fiberglass foam core hull and deck, the Prindle 16 features a twin daggerboard keel type, characteristic of performance catamarans designed for optimal upwind performance and shallow water access. The boat's design prioritizes speed and responsiveness, catering to those who enjoy spirited sailing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a 16-foot catamaran, the Prindle 16 is inherently designed for speed and agility rather than the stability ratios typically applied to monohulls or larger cruisers. With a reported sail area of 189 square feet and a light displacement of only 300 pounds, the Prindle 16 is engineered to harness the wind efficiently and accelerate quickly. It boasts a hull speed of approximately 5.19 knots, indicative of its swift nature. Owners frequently praise the Prindle 16 for its spirited performance and excellent handling, often noting its balance and responsiveness on the water. It is considered a good performer that can be easily single-handed, offering an engaging sailing experience. Compared to some other catamarans of similar size, the Prindle 16 is also noted for being less prone to pitchpoling, contributing to its reputation for predictable handling. Its fractional sloop rig and twin daggerboards allow for effective upwind sailing and maneuverability.

Accommodations and Layout

True to its identity as a beach catamaran, the Prindle 16 prioritizes open-air performance over enclosed living spaces. Consequently, it offers no traditional interior accommodations or enclosed headroom. The layout consists of an open deck area with trampolines stretched between its two hulls, providing ample space for crew movement and relaxation while sailing. Storage is typically limited to small compartments or mesh bags for essential gear, consistent with a day-sailing or racing dinghy design.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Prindle 16 often highlight several key strengths that contribute to its enduring popularity. Many appreciate its ease of single-handing, making it accessible for solo adventures. Its strong performance characteristics, including good speed and the ability to launch directly from a beach, are frequently cited as major advantages. The availability of replacement parts from various suppliers also provides reassurance to current owners. While generally well-regarded, some owners have noted potential concerns, such as the possibility of "soft hulls" developing over time, which may require attention. Despite being out of production, the Prindle 16 maintains a dedicated community of enthusiasts, and it is often favorably compared to other catamarans in its class, with some sailors preferring its specific design and handling characteristics.