Tomcat 6.2 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The TomCat 6.2 began its production run in 2004, a testament to the vision of TomCat Boats founders, Ted and Tom Strain, who aimed to produce high-quality, affordable sailing catamarans. Designer Ted Strain leveraged his practical understanding of watercraft to shape the 6.2's lines. Central to TomCat's construction methodology, and a signature feature of the 6.2, is the use of foam core, fiberglass skin sandwich construction. This technique ensures the vessel is both light and strong, while also providing inherent flotation, aligning with the builder's ethos of creating durable and capable boats. This approach underpins TomCat's commitment to building robust and reliable performance catamarans.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 20.25 feet and a waterline length of 20.0 feet, the TomCat 6.2 boasts a substantial beam of 11.16 feet, characteristic of a catamaran, which contributes significantly to its inherent stability. Its light displacement of 850 pounds, coupled with a reported sail area of 210 square feet, suggests an agile and responsive boat that performs well in light to moderate air. The 6.2 is designed to be both fast and exciting when conditions are up, yet relaxing and enjoyable in a more gentle breeze, making it highly versatile for various sailing preferences.

A key feature enhancing its performance is a single high-aspect ratio foil centerboard, providing excellent upwind capability. This, combined with rockered hulls, contributes to easy tacking across a range of wind speeds. Owners often praise its ease of handling, highlighting its suitability for single-handed sailing. With a hull speed of approximately 5.99 knots, the TomCat 6.2 delivers spirited performance, fulfilling its concept of combining comfortable cruising with capable sailing. The catamaran's trailerable beam of 8.0 feet further adds to its practicality, allowing for easy transport and access to various waterways.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact 20.25-foot length and trailerable design, the TomCat 6.2 offers a minimalist yet functional accommodation layout primarily suited for day-sailing and short overnight trips. While specific interior details such as maximum headroom are not widely publicized, the design focuses on maximizing comfort and utility within its footprint. The concept behind the 6.2 marries the comfort often found in a powerboat with the sailing prowess of a catamaran, suggesting a well-thought-out bridge deck area for socializing and enjoying the outdoors.

Evidence from some models indicates an interior that includes basic amenities, with side panels finished in materials like Sunbrella, suggesting a durable and easily maintained space. The deck layout prioritizes user experience, with some boats fitted with practical features like back-to-back fold-down lounge seats. These elements reinforce the 6.2's design as a comfortable platform for enjoying the water, offering sufficient shelter for brief stays while emphasizing an open, airy feel typical of small catamarans.