Prindle Escape Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Prindle Escape began in 1995, building upon the established foundation of the Prindle 18 model. While sharing the robust hulls of the Prindle 18, the Escape was notably configured with the mast and sail plan of the smaller Prindle 16, a design choice intended to emphasize ease of handling and broaden its appeal to a wider range of recreational sailors. This strategic combination reflects Performance Catamarans Inc.'s overall design philosophy, which prioritized exhilarating performance and responsiveness in their multihulls. During this era, the builder, under Tom Roland's guidance, focused on creating finely tuned machines designed to efficiently harness the wind and offer both speed and comfort. An innovative option available for the Prindle Escape was the "CatRax" system, an addition designed to enhance sailing comfort.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Prindle Escape, with a length overall of 18 feet and a waterline length of 17 feet, is fundamentally designed for spirited performance. Boasting a hull speed of approximately 5.52 knots, it delivers the quick and agile experience expected of a high-performance catamaran. Its fractional sloop rig, featuring a rotating spar, contributes to its efficient sail plan. Owners frequently highlight the Escape's exceptional ease of handling as one of its most defining characteristics. While beach catamarans are generally engineered to be "overpowered by design," contributing to their exciting speed, this can sometimes make them a bit challenging to tack in certain conditions. However, the overall consensus points to a boat that is both fun and manageable for recreational day sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

As an 18-foot beach catamaran, the Prindle Escape is an open boat, designed for day sailing and performance on the water rather than enclosed accommodations. The layout is typical of small catamarans, featuring open deck space, primarily dominated by trampolines between the two hulls, providing ample area for crew movement and relaxation. There is no enclosed interior space or standing headroom. The focus is entirely on the exhilaration of sailing, with deck fittings and systems optimized for performance and ease of use.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Prindle Escape generally appreciate its solid construction and its character as a fun and straightforward recreational catamaran. Many commend its ease of handling, making it an accessible option for those seeking a spirited yet manageable sailing experience on a beach cat. While specific common problems are not widely reported, some discussions among enthusiasts touch on minor system quirks, such as certain uphaul line mechanisms, though these do not appear to be widespread critical issues. The Prindle Escape is consistently seen as a reliable and enjoyable choice for those looking for a nimble and exciting small multihull.