Apache 41 Information, Review, Specs

The Sailcraft Apache 41 began its production run in 1970, a period when Sailcraft Ltd. was actively expanding its offerings beyond high-performance racing catamarans, like the Olympic-class Tornado, into the burgeoning cruising market. The company, co-founded by Reg White MBE and designer Rodney March, had already established a reputation for innovative design and the early adoption of fiberglass construction for its vessels. It was within this innovative environment that Sailcraft collaborated with J.R. "Rod" Macalpine-Downie, a self-taught but highly influential multihull designer, to create a series of cruising catamarans, including the Apache 41, 14].

Macalpine-Downie's design philosophy emphasized pushing the boundaries of multihull efficiency and performance, aiming to create vessels that were both fast and stable for enjoyable sailing experiences 15, 17, Builder Article. The Apache 41, with its impressive 40.83-foot length overall and a wide 19.5-foot beam, reflected this ethos by offering substantial volume for its length. Built with a solid fiberglass hull and deck, the boat benefited from Sailcraft's commitment to modern materials, which allowed for lighter, stronger, and more consistently built vessels than traditional methods. The Apache 41 was versatile in its rigging, available as a sloop, cutter, or ketch. Furthermore, it offered flexibility in draft, featuring centerboards that allowed for a minimum draft of 3.0 feet, extending to a maximum of 6.75 feet when deployed, while a fixed keel version had a draft of 5.83 feet.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a large cruising catamaran, the Apache 41 was designed for comfortable passage making, leveraging the inherent stability and generous deck space of a multihull. With a reported sail area of 710 square feet for a masthead sloop rig and a displacement of 16,000 pounds, it features a generous rig for its displacement. However, some analyses suggest that despite its large sail plan and lifting keels, the Apache 41 delivered only modest performance due to its relatively high displacement for a cruising catamaran of its era.

The design's 36-foot waterline length contributes to a theoretical hull speed of 8.04 knots. A key benefit of its design, particularly with the lifting centerboards, is the ability to access shallow anchorages and marinas, with a minimum draft of approximately 3.0 feet. The catamaran configuration naturally provides significant initial stability and reduces heel compared to monohulls, contributing to a more comfortable motion in a seaway for a family cruiser.

Accommodations and Layout

The Sailcraft Apache 41 was renowned for its remarkably spacious interior, a hallmark of multihull design. The typical layout includes an aft cabin, a bow cabin, a central salon, and a marine head with a washbasin. Some configurations even boasted four double staterooms alongside three saloon areas, highlighting the generous accommodation potential of this 41-foot catamaran.

The galley is generally well-equipped for cruising, featuring amenities such as an oven, freezer, refrigerator, gas hob, and sink unit. While specific details on finish quality and materials vary by individual boat and owner modifications over time, early Sailcraft vessels often featured practical and durable construction typical of the period. The expansive beam of 19.5 feet allowed for wide companionways and ample standing room within the hulls, contributing to a sense of openness not often found in monohulls of similar length.