Prindle 18-2 Information, Review, Specs

Synthesizing Roland's design philosophy with the builder's commitment to pushing the boundaries of speed, the Prindle 18-2 exemplifies the spirit of performance-oriented sailing in a compact and accessible form.

History and Design

The Prindle 18-2 emerged in 1983, succeeding the original Prindle 18, which was designed by Geoffrey Prindle in 1977. Its introduction marked a refinement in the line of Prindle catamarans, building upon the foundations laid by its predecessor. Performance Catamarans Inc., the builder, consistently aimed to create lightweight, fast, and agile boats, a philosophy clearly evident in the Prindle 18-2. The company, which would later transition into Nacra Sailing, prioritized optimal hydrodynamic efficiency and exhilarating performance in its designs.

The Prindle 18-2 features a fiberglass solid hull and deck, ensuring a robust yet lightweight structure for its intended high-performance use. Its twin centerboard configuration (often referred to as daggerboards on catamarans) allows for excellent windward performance while offering the flexibility of a shallow draft of just 0.5 feet with boards up, expanding its accessibility to various sailing locations, including lakes. The boat is rigged as a fractional sloop with a rotating spar, a common setup for performance catamarans to maximize sail efficiency. While specific design variations like "MkI" or "MkII" are not widely noted for the Prindle 18-2, its design is often compared to the larger Prindle 19 and the Tornado catamaran, suggesting a consistent performance-focused lineage.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a lightweight catamaran with a reported sail area of 233.0 square feet and a displacement of only 375 pounds, the Prindle 18-2 is engineered for spirited performance. Its design, characteristic of Performance Catamarans Inc.'s ethos, emphasizes speed and responsiveness. With a length overall of 18 feet and a waterline length of 17.2 feet, coupled with an 8.5-foot beam, it presents a stable platform that can achieve a theoretical hull speed of approximately 5.56 knots.

Anecdotal evidence from owners often highlights the Prindle 18-2's quick acceleration and ability to plane readily in moderate winds, offering an exhilarating ride. Its twin centerboards contribute to good upwind performance, while its light weight and fractional sloop rig allow for rapid adjustments and responsiveness to trim. Sailors describe it as a boat that is enjoyable to sail, particularly in conditions where its speed and agility can be fully leveraged. The boat typically requires an 8:1 purchase mainsheet system for effective control, underscoring its performance-oriented rigging.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its design as a high-performance beach catamaran, the Prindle 18-2 features an open and uncluttered layout, prioritizing sailing functionality over interior accommodations. Unlike larger cruising sailboats, there is no enclosed cabin or significant headroom to speak of. The primary "accommodation" space consists of the large trampoline net stretched between the two fiberglass hulls, providing a comfortable and expansive platform for crew movement, lounging, and managing sails.

Typical Prindle 18-2 models include features such as integrated pockets near the mast base for storing small items, and adjustable hiking straps to facilitate aggressive sailing. The construction generally involves solid fiberglass hulls, known for being well-built and engineered. Storage is primarily limited to small compartments within the hulls or accessible through deck hatches, suitable for essential gear. Ventilation is naturally abundant due to its open design. The emphasis is entirely on the open-air sailing experience, with simple, durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of performance sailing.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Prindle 18-2 frequently praise its robust construction and the overall quality of its engineering, noting that parts are often common to many boats, making maintenance manageable. Its well-built nature is a recurring positive theme. The boat is often recommended for its fun and competitive sailing experience, particularly for those looking for a lively performance catamaran.

However, as with any pre-owned boat, potential buyers are advised to check specific components. Common points of discussion or potential issues mentioned by owners include checking the mainsheet system, ensuring the sheave atop the mast is functional, and inspecting the trampolines for tears, which are often cited as areas needing attention on older models. Some owners have reported issues with water intrusion through hull pipes or requiring rudder and casting replacements, though parts are generally available. Despite these potential maintenance points, the Prindle 18-2 maintains a reputation as a well-loved and competitive beach catamaran, offering a rewarding sailing experience.