Tornado Catamaran Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Tornado's illustrious journey began in 1967 when it emerged as the winner of international "B" class catamaran trials, a competition specifically aimed at selecting a new Olympic catamaran. Designed by Rodney March, the Tornado quickly became an International Class recognized by the International Sailing Federation (ISAF) and was featured as an Olympic class from 1976 to 2008. March's design philosophy centered on creating an exceptionally fast and responsive catamaran that could perform at the highest levels of international competition.

Over its long production run, which started in 1967 and continues to be supported by builders like Windrush Yachts, the Tornado has seen significant evolutions to maintain its competitive edge. Windrush Yachts, known for its expertise in fiberglass and composite materials, became an ISAF-approved builder for the Tornado class in 2014, showcasing their commitment to meeting stringent international racing standards. The class rules were notably updated around 2004 to incorporate modern performance enhancements, including allowing twin trapezes, a "flat head" mainsail, and an asymmetric spinnaker, further pushing the boundaries of its speed and handling.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tornado Catamaran, with its lightweight fiberglass and wood composite hull and a reported sail area of 235 square feet for a 20-foot length overall, is engineered purely for high-speed performance. Weighing in at a mere 300 pounds, its design prioritizes minimizing resistance and maximizing power. The boat features a fractional sloop rig, twin rudders, and centerboards, all contributing to its responsive handling and ability to point high and accelerate rapidly.

Sailing the Tornado is often described as an exhilarating experience, demanding sharp reflexes and coordination from its two-person crew. Its light displacement and generous sail plan mean it can achieve impressive speeds, often exceeding 20 knots in favorable conditions, making it faster than the wind itself in many scenarios. The catamaran configuration, combined with its narrow hulls, offers excellent stability at speed, while the centerboards provide crucial lift and upwind performance. Owners and sailors consistently highlight its agility and the physical demands of managing its power, especially when flying a hull or executing quick maneuvers. The addition of twin trapezes allows the crew to maximize leverage, enabling the boat to stand up to more wind and convert it into breathtaking speed.

Accommodations and Layout

As a high-performance, 20-foot racing catamaran, the Tornado Catamaran is designed purely for competitive sailing and does not feature any interior accommodations or living spaces. Its open deck layout is optimized for crew movement and sail handling during races. The design prioritizes lightweight construction and efficient rigging, with no provision for a cabin, berths, or galley. This focus ensures maximum performance, aligning with its role as an Olympic-class vessel where speed and agility are paramount. The deck is primarily an open platform, providing space for the crew to manage the extensive sail plan and utilize the trapeze for leverage.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and enthusiasts of the Tornado Catamaran consistently praise its unmatched speed and the thrill of competitive racing. Many regard it as an ideal platform for developing advanced catamaran sailing skills, noting its responsiveness and the physical demands required to sail it effectively. The Tornado's status as a one-design class is frequently cited as a strength, fostering fair competition and a strong, dedicated community. Forums and owner discussions often revolve around tuning for optimal performance, maintenance of the rigging, and strategies for racing.

However, the high-performance nature of the Tornado also presents certain considerations. Its light build and advanced rigging require diligent maintenance, and some owners note that ongoing care of the composite hulls and fittings is essential to preserve its competitive edge. Due to its racing focus, the Tornado typically requires dedicated storage, often on a trailer or in a facility that allows for mast-up storage, as it's not a boat one would simply leave at a mooring for extended periods. Despite these demands, the enduring popularity and active class associations underscore its legacy as a truly iconic and rewarding racing catamaran.