Prindle 15 Information, Review, Specs

The Prindle 15 emerged in 1978, a year that coincided with Surfglas, Inc. officially rebranding as Prindle Catamarans, solidifying its identity in the marine market. Designed by Geoffrey Prindle, whose passion for performance sailing defined a generation of beach catamarans, the Prindle 15 reflects his core design philosophy of creating tough, durable, and fast boats. A hallmark of Prindle's engineering was the direct attachment of beams to the hulls, a construction technique that minimized flex and resulted in a notably rigid sailing platform, contributing to the boat's reputation for reliability and capable performance. While the Prindle 15 was primarily designed as a single-handed boat, capable of delivering a nimble and exciting experience, its fundamental construction of solid fiberglass for both hull and deck ensured longevity. Owners have noted that original components like blocks may have been prone to issues, often requiring upgrades to modern hardware.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Prindle 15, with its light displacement of 260 pounds and a reported sail area of 142 square feet, delivers agile and exciting performance typical of a high-performance beach catamaran. Its shallow maximum draft of 0.7 feet allows for easy beaching and navigation in shallow waters, enhancing its versatility. With a hull speed calculated at 5.08 knots, the boat is designed for speed and responsiveness. The builder's article highlights Prindle's reputation for building "good, solid boats" known for toughness, durability, speed, and agility, classifying the Prindle 15 as a "fun single-hander". Owners frequently praise its overall performance, often using a standing technique at the mast and front crossbar for optimal downwind sailing. However, hoisting the sail can be a bit "fussy at the mast hook," occasionally requiring specific techniques, and dropping the sail typically involves pointing the bows approximately 45 degrees off the wind. The Prindle 15 features two rudders for precise steering and control, typical of its catamaran configuration.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 15-foot beach catamaran, the Prindle 15 prioritizes open-air sailing and minimalist design over enclosed accommodations. The design features an open deck layout, dominated by a trampoline stretched between the two fiberglass hulls, providing ample space for a single sailor or a light crew. There is no enclosed cabin or interior headroom, with the focus entirely on maximizing the on-water experience. Storage is typically limited to small, watertight compartments within the hulls or on deck, suitable for essential safety gear and personal items. The straightforward and uncluttered layout is conducive to easy handling and quick maneuvers, consistent with its design as a performance beach cat.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Prindle 15 consistently commend its solid construction and durability, a testament to Geoffrey Prindle's design philosophy, 6]. Many describe the Prindle 15 as a "great boat" that provides a fun and exhilarating sailing experience, particularly for single-handed sailing. Its robustness means that many original models remain active in the used boat market today. However, common issues noted by owners revolve around the age of the boats. Finding original replacement parts can be a challenge, though specialized marine suppliers often offer alternatives. Furthermore, older Prindle 15s may benefit from replacing original blocks with more modern, efficient hardware, as the blocks of that era were often considered suboptimal. Some owners also recommend sealing the mast and ensuring the boat can be reliably righted after a capsize.