Windrush 14 Information, Review, Specs

Synthesizing a blend of racing heritage and innovative craftsmanship, the Windrush 14 embodies a primary purpose as a high-performance day-sailing catamaran and a vibrant one-design racer. Its general reputation in the sailing community is one of a forgiving yet competitive boat, easy to rig and sail, making it suitable for both aspiring catamaran sailors and seasoned racers.

History and Design

The narrative of the Windrush 14 begins in 1976 with the launch of the original Surfcat Mark I, designed by Richard and Jay McFarlane. The designers' philosophy for this model centered on creating a competitive 14-foot one-design class catamaran that was both exciting to sail and widely accessible. Its immediate popularity led to the introduction of the Mark II in 1979. A pivotal moment occurred in 1986 when Windrush Yachts officially acquired the manufacturing rights, rebranding the Surfcat as the Windrush 14 and subsequently introducing the Mark III version. This acquisition marked the true beginning of Windrush Yachts as a significant boat builder, cementing their commitment to catamaran manufacturing.

Under the leadership of Managing Director Brett Burvill, Windrush Yachts has upheld a manufacturing ethos focused on producing competitive, durable, and enjoyable catamarans, with a strong emphasis on in-house development and 'one-design' principles. The design's popularity extended beyond Australia, with the Windrush 14 being produced in the United States under license by AMF as the Trac-14, ensuring its global reach and a consistent design standard across different manufacturing locations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Windrush 14, with its catamaran hull type, fractional sloop rig, and a length overall of 14.08 feet, is designed for spirited sailing and responsive handling. Weighing in at a mere 170 pounds, it is a light and nimble vessel. Its twin, asymmetrical hulls, which do not rely on centerboards, contribute to its shallow draft of approximately 0.6 feet, allowing it to sail close to the beach and explore shallow waters.

Owners consistently describe the Windrush 14 as easy to rig and sail, yet competitive, making it an excellent choice for off-the-beach sailing. The fractional rig, featuring smaller headsails, simplifies tacking, which is an advantage for both casual sailors and those engaged in racing. Anecdotal evidence suggests the boat is forgiving, even if the leeward hull is briefly submerged during lively sailing. It is generally considered a one-person boat, though a jib can be added for a "super sloop" configuration, sometimes requiring two sailors for optimal performance. The Windrush 14 is known for being a fast and fun boat, offering an exhilarating experience on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 14-foot off-the-beach catamaran, the Windrush 14 is inherently an open-deck sailboat with no enclosed accommodations or interior layout in the traditional sense. Its design prioritizes performance and ease of handling over creature comforts. The deck layout is functional, featuring a trampoline for crew positioning and comfortable seating during sailing. The fiberglass solid hull and deck construction ensure durability for its intended use. The open design facilitates quick rigging and launching, allowing sailors to quickly get on the water.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Windrush 14, and its American counterpart the AMF Trac 14, generally praise the boat for its robust build and enjoyable sailing characteristics. Many consider them to be good beach cats due to their thick and strong hulls and the absence of centerboards to worry about. The "hassle-free" design is often cited as a strength, being simple and sturdy, capable of being sailed with a single sail or upgraded with a jib and trapeze or spinnaker for more advanced sailing.

A common sentiment among owners is that the Windrush 14 provides an excellent entry point into catamaran sailing, being both forgiving for beginners and capable of offering competitive racing for more experienced sailors. Owners have found them to be reliable and a "blast" to sail. While specific common problems are not widely documented, the general consensus points to the boat's durability and straightforward nature as key advantages. The continued existence of a strong owner community and dedicated associations further attests to the lasting impact and quality of this iconic design.