As a seasoned observer of the marine world and a dedicated chronicler for this esteemed yachting publication, it is a privilege to cast our gaze upon TomCat Boats, a Canadian builder known for its pragmatic yet performance-oriented approach to multihull design and construction. Far from the grandiose, mass-produced yachts, TomCat Boats embodies a philosophy of accessible, high-quality sailing, carving out a niche with its thoughtful designs and robust builds.
TomCat Boats emerged from the vision and expertise of two individuals, Ted Strain and Tom Strain, who together form the core of this Canadian boat-building endeavor. Their shared goal from the company's inception was straightforward: to craft high-quality, affordable sailing vessels. Ted Strain, a seasoned kayaker and canoeist with a history of owning a McAlpine-Downie Iroquois, took on the pivotal role of designer, lending his practical understanding of watercraft to the brand's early creations. Tom Strain serves as the company's President, guiding its operations. While specific details about their very first boat are not widely publicized, their initial motivation was clearly rooted in a desire to make multihull sailing more attainable without compromising on quality or performance.
History and Evolution
TomCat Boats has steadily evolved, establishing itself as a dedicated builder of sailing catamarans. Their journey has been marked by a consistent commitment to a particular construction methodology: foam core, fiberglass skin sandwich construction. This technique is central to their vessels, providing a balance of lightness, strength, and inherent flotation. This approach underscores their philosophy of building durable and capable boats.
The company operates from its Canadian base, with an office located in Caledon, Ontario, and manufacturing facilities in Newmarket, Ontario. Beyond their production models, TomCat Boats also embraces custom build projects, showcasing their flexibility and ability to cater to individual client needs. This bespoke service further highlights their craftsmanship and adaptability within the marine industry.
Design Philosophy and Identity
TomCat Boats has cultivated a distinct reputation in the sailing community, particularly for producing functional and capable cruising catamarans. Their design philosophy centers on creating boats that are not only fast and exciting when conditions allow but also relaxing and enjoyable in more moderate breezes. A key characteristic of their designs is the ease with which they can be single-handed, a testament to intelligent planning and manageable line loads.
The brand's identity is intrinsically linked to its construction methods. The use of foam core and fiberglass sandwich construction is a signature feature, contributing to the boats' strength and buoyancy. This technique is critical to their aim of delivering robust and reliable performance. At the heart of their designs is Ted Strain, who serves as the naval architect, bringing his extensive experience and practical sailing background to each vessel's lines. The company is noted for its "small workforce and close supervision," which contributes to a gratifyingly good production quality in their boats.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, TomCat Boats has introduced several models that have become synonymous with the brand's commitment to practical multihull sailing. Among their most recognized offerings are:
- TomCat 9.7 (and 9.70 s): This approximately 32-foot cruising catamaran stands out as one of their most significant and widely known models. The TomCat 9.7 is lauded for its intelligent layout, allowing for easy handling, and its comfortable accommodations. It features a level ride and a cockpit hardtop, enhancing the onboard experience. The popularity of this model has fostered a community among its owners.
- TomCat 6.2: This model represents another pillar of their production line, embodying modern multihull features and benefiting from the signature foam core construction. It is designed to maximize sailing enjoyment, whether seeking speed or a leisurely cruise.
- Solo and Tandem: These models are also listed among TomCat's offerings, reinforcing their focus on catamaran designs.
Beyond these production models, TomCat Boats also undertakes custom build projects, demonstrating their versatility and engineering prowess to create unique vessels tailored to specific client requirements. While not involved in high-profile racing circuits like the America's Cup, their legacy is built on providing accessible, well-engineered, and durable sailing catamarans that allow owners to enjoy the water with confidence and comfort.
The Builder Today
TomCat Boats continues its operations in Canada, with Tom Strain serving as its President. The company maintains an active presence, offering its established models like the TomCat 9.7 and 6.2, alongside its custom build services. Their focus remains on producing quality sailing catamarans, a niche where they have built a solid reputation for delivering reliable and affordable vessels.
The modern TomCat boats appeal to individuals and families seeking practical, easy-to-handle catamarans for cruising and day-sailing. The ownership experience is characterized by the robust build quality resulting from the company's dedicated workforce and hands-on supervision. The existence of an active owner community, particularly around models like the TomCat 9.7, speaks to the satisfaction and camaraderie among those who choose a TomCat for their sailing adventures. TomCat Boats maintains its commitment to the art of boat building, providing sensible and enjoyable multihull options for the discerning sailor.
