In the vibrant era of 1970s sailing, a Californian company emerged, carving its niche in the burgeoning market for nimble and exhilarating small catamarans: Sol Catamarans. Founded by the visionary Gene Vernon, the company, based in Santa Ana, California, contributed to the evolution of accessible, performance-oriented multihulls during its active years.
The Origin Story
Sol Catamarans began its journey in 1973, a creation born from the ambition of Gene Vernon. While details of Vernon's specific background are not extensively documented, his role as the "maritime architect" behind Sol Cat's designs suggests a strong engineering and design acumen in the marine field. His motivation likely stemmed from the growing popularity of beach catamarans, offering a blend of speed, simplicity, and a direct connection to the water that appealed to a new generation of sailors.
The company's initial production efforts soon materialized in models that quickly became recognizable. Though the company was founded in 1973, its first prominent model, the Sol Cat 15, began production in 1975. Constructed from fiberglass, a material that had by then become standard for efficient and durable boat building, these catamarans were designed to be lightweight and responsive, embodying the spirit of recreational performance sailing.
History and Evolution
Sol Catamarans operated for over a decade, from its founding in 1973 until it ceased operations in 1984. During this period, the company primarily focused on producing its distinctive fiberglass catamarans. Unlike larger yacht builders, Sol Catamarans did not undergo major corporate transformations, mergers, or significant expansions in manufacturing facilities. Its history was one of consistent production of its key models, aimed at a specific segment of the sailing community. The company's relatively brief lifespan reflects the competitive nature of the beach catamaran market during that era, which saw several manufacturers vying for dominance.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Sol Catamarans, under Gene Vernon's design leadership, established a reputation for producing fun, fast, and relatively straightforward beach catamarans. They were known for their lively performance, appealing to sailors who sought speed and agility in a compact package. While specific design philosophies or unique construction techniques are not widely detailed, the common characteristics of beach catamarans of the time included lightweight hulls, simple rigging, and daggerboards or skegs for lateral resistance.
Gene Vernon himself served as the principal naval architect for the company's designs, notably for the Sol Cat 15 and the Sol Cat 18. His direct involvement ensured a cohesive design identity across the brand's limited but impactful model range.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The most significant and successful models in Sol Catamarans' history were undoubtedly the Sol Cat 15 and the Sol Cat 18. The Sol Cat 15, introduced in 1975, measured 15 feet 8 inches in length (4.78 meters) and quickly became a popular choice for day sailing and casual racing. The larger Sol Cat 18, designed in the early seventies, provided even more performance, often drawing comparisons to other popular performance catamarans of its time, like the Hobie 18, indicating its strong standing in the market.
These boats were designed for ease of use and transport, making them ideal for individuals or families looking for an accessible entry into catamaran sailing. While exact production numbers are not readily available, these models contributed to the vibrant beach catamaran scene of the 1970s and early 1980s, leaving a legacy of enjoyable sailing experiences for their owners. They represented the era's focus on recreational speed and the expansion of sailing to a broader, more adventurous audience.
The Builder Today
Sol Catamarans is no longer in business, having ceased operations in 1984. As such, there is no ongoing production or corporate entity. However, the legacy of Sol Catamarans lives on through the durable fiberglass boats that continue to be sailed and cherished by enthusiasts. Owners of Sol Cat 15s and 18s occasionally find each other in online communities, sharing insights and maintaining these classic beach cats. The enduring presence of these boats on lakes and coastlines speaks to their robust construction and the lasting appeal of their spirited design, making Sol Catamarans a fondly remembered name among marine historians and catamaran aficionados.
