A-Lion Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the A-Lion commenced in 1967, aligning with Sailcraft Ltd.'s foundational year and its commitment to innovative, high-performance multihulls. The A-Lion's journey is intrinsically linked to the evolution of the "A" class catamaran rule. Before its inception, the "A" class had loosely defined parameters, often lacking a maximum length overall. The A-Lion, then known as the Sea Lion 18, played a pivotal role in shaping the more finalized parameters established by the International Yacht Racing Union (IYRU), with these new rules largely based on its design. This reflects Sailcraft's ethos, driven by founders Reg White and Rodney March, to push the boundaries of speed and efficiency in sailing craft.

Sailcraft, known for its early adoption of fiberglass construction, built the A-Lion with a solid fiberglass hull and deck, a testament to their forward-thinking approach to marine manufacturing during that era. The design aimed for pure performance and racing agility rather than extensive cruising amenities, consistent with its role as a one-design racing catamaran.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As an 18-foot catamaran, the Sailcraft A-Lion was engineered for speed and responsive handling, characteristic of high-performance multihulls. Its twin-hull design, coupled with a relatively light displacement of 300 lbs and a shallow-draft centerboard, contributed to its impressive agility and ability to point well. The A-Lion is equipped with a cat rig, which typically features a single, large mainsail, emphasizing simplicity and efficient power delivery for racing. Its performance garnered considerable attention on the race course, showcasing its competitive capabilities at the time. Catamarans are generally known for their inherent stability due to their wide stance, allowing them to carry sail in higher winds with less heeling compared to monohulls, and the A-Lion, designed for competitive sailing, would have leveraged these characteristics for exhilarating performance.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its role as a compact, performance-oriented racing catamaran, the Sailcraft A-Lion prioritizes sailing dynamics over interior comfort or extensive accommodations. With a length overall of 18 feet and a beam of 7.5 feet, the design offers minimal, if any, enclosed interior space. The focus is on a functional cockpit and deck layout conducive to racing and day sailing. Any available "interior" would be limited to small, open compartments or lockers within the hulls, primarily for stowing essential gear or a few personal items. The A-Lion was conceived as a spirited day sailor and racer, not a vessel for extended cruising or overnight stays, therefore, traditional amenities like berths, galleys, or heads are not part of its design.