Topaz 12 C Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Topaz 12 C began its production run in 2012, expanding Topper International's versatile Topaz range. Topper International has a long-standing reputation for innovative design and robust construction, famously utilizing injection-moulded polypropylene and later TRILAM sandwich construction for exceptional durability and lightweight performance. The Topaz 12 C benefits from this ethos, featuring a hull constructed from polyethylene, a material known for its resilience. The collaboration between Yves Loday and Rob White aimed to create a catamaran that was simple to rig, easy to handle, and offered tremendous stability, making it an excellent first boat for aspiring catamaran sailors. A key design feature is its built-in skeg design hulls, which negate the need for daggerboards, simplifying operation. While the standard Topaz 12 C comes with a mainsail and jib, a variant known as the Topaz 12 CX also includes a gennaker for enhanced performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Measuring just under 12 feet in length overall with a corresponding waterline length, the Topaz 12 C is engineered for nimble and responsive sailing. Its lightweight displacement of 187 pounds, combined with a generous sail area of 74.38 square feet (including mainsail and jib), allows for sprightly performance in various conditions. The design prioritizes stability and precise handling, making it a confidence-inspiring platform for newcomers. Reviewers and builders describe its handling as "well-mannered" and "easy to handle," attributing this to its high foredeck, which provides significant volume in the bow area, contributing to excellent stability. The standard rig with a reefing mainsail and jib is designed for easy management, and the option for a trapeze allows crews to enhance performance and experience more exhilarating sailing as their skills develop. Its hull speed is calculated at approximately 4.64 knots, indicating its capability for swift movement across the water.

Accommodations and Layout

As a compact 12-foot beach catamaran designed for single or double-handed sailing, the Topaz 12 C features an open cockpit layout, typical for its class. There are no enclosed interior accommodations on board. The design focuses entirely on providing an uncluttered, functional deck space for sailing, with seating areas on the hulls for the crew. Its primary purpose as a training and recreational dinghy means the emphasis is on ease of access, operation, and a direct connection to the sailing experience, rather than comfort amenities.