The vessel is typically constructed using a multi-stringer system and is known for its "no-frills" finish. While it lacks the polished gelcoat liners of high-end production cats, its ruggedness made it a favorite for those operating in shallow flats or navigating choppy inlets where hull-to-bottom contact or heavy gear usage is frequent.
Sailing Performance & Handling
Though the Americat 22 is a power-driven catamaran rather than a sailing vessel, its hydrodynamic performance is dictated by the twin-hull principles common to multihulls. The boat is designed as a displacement or semi-displacement hull, intended to "slice" through chop rather than purely plane on top of it. This results in a remarkably soft ride in head seas, as the narrow entries of the two sponsons break the waves, while the tunnel between them provides aerodynamic lift.
Owners frequently report that the Americat 22 tracks exceptionally well in a following sea, a condition where many small monohulls struggle with bow-steering. Handling is characterized by a "flat" cornering sensation; unlike a monohull that leans into a turn, the Americat 22 remains relatively level, which can be an adjustment for those transitioning from traditional hulls. The boat is typically rigged with twin outboards—often in the 90hp to 115hp range—providing redundancy for offshore trips. One common handling quirk mentioned in technical discussions is "sneezing," a phenomenon where air and mist are compressed in the tunnel and blown out the front, though the high-sided design of the Americat 22 helps mitigate this.
The Americat 22 was often built on the same foundational design philosophy as its larger siblings, the Americat 24 and the Americat 25. These larger variants offered more displacement and higher freeboard, but the 22 remained the preferred choice for solo operators or those limited by towing capacity.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach a used Americat 22 with a focus on the structural integrity and the specific rigging of the twin-hull system. Because these boats were often used heavily for fishing, the following areas require scrutiny:
- Tunnel Stress Cracks: Inspect the "shoulder" area where the sponsons meet the tunnel. This is a high-stress point in catamarans; while superficial spider cracks in the gelcoat are common, deep or localized cracking may indicate structural fatigue from heavy offshore pounding.
- Deck Drainage: The self-bailing cockpit design relies on scuppers that must remain clear. On older models, check for the integrity of the scupper flaps and ensure the deck-to-hull seal is watertight to prevent water from entering the sponsons.
- Fuel System Access: Some Americat models featured fuel tanks that were foamed into place. Buyers should verify the age and condition of the aluminum tanks, as replacing them in a catamaran can be more labor-intensive than in a standard center console due to the narrower hull sections.
- Weight Distribution: Catamarans are highly sensitive to weight. If a previous owner added heavy aftermarket towers or oversized livewells aft, it can negatively impact the boat’s ability to "self-sneeze" and may lead to a wet ride.
Community & Resources
The primary hub for Americat technical data and owner feedback is the Americat Boats manufacturer page, though the company’s boutique nature means much of the history is preserved through regional Florida boating communities. While there is no formal international class association, the brand maintains a strong presence in offshore catamaran forums where legacy data on the Dave East-designed hulls is frequently shared.
The Verdict
The Americat 22 is a rugged, purpose-built fishing machine that trades sleek lines for exceptional stability and deck space.
Pros
- Exceptional Stability: The wide catamaran stance provides a "rock-solid" platform even when multiple anglers are on one side.
- Shallow Draft: Capable of navigating thinner water than many deep-V hulls of the same class.
- Redundancy: The twin-engine configuration offers peace of mind for those venturing far from the inlet.
Cons
- Utilitarian Finish: Lacks the refined interior and storage "comforts" of modern family-oriented center consoles.
- The "Sneezes": Like many small cats, it can be prone to blowing mist forward in specific head-sea conditions.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The boxy, wide-bow design is functional but may not appeal to traditionalists.
