Sailing Performance & Handling
The sailing characteristics of the Trac-18 are defined by its symmetrical hull form and its "tracking" ability, which gave the model its name. Unlike the Hobie 16, which requires the windward hull to be flown to reduce drag from its asymmetrical shape, the Trac-18’s hulls are designed to be efficient even when level. This makes the boat significantly more forgiving for intermediate sailors. According to design notes from the Phil Morrison era, the emphasis was placed on longitudinal stability. This translates to a reduced tendency to "stuff" the bows into a wave—the dreaded pitchpole—which was a common hazard for many high-performance beach cats of the time.
In terms of handling, the Trac-18 feels more "planted" and heavy than its contemporaries. With a weight of approximately 450 lbs, it carries more momentum through a tack, making it less likely to get caught "in irons" compared to lighter, twitchier multihulls. The sail plan, often exceeding 210 square feet between the main and jib, provides ample power to overcome its displacement. Sailors often report that the boat tracks exceptionally well upwind, requiring less constant correction at the tiller, a trait attributed to the hull's deep V-sections forward that act similarly to a fixed skeg.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective owners of a vintage Trac-18 should focus their inspection on the structural integrity of the hulls and the bridge deck. As with many AMF-era fiberglass products, the Trac-18 is susceptible to specific age-related degradations.
- Deck Delamination: The "soft spot" is the most common ailment for the Trac series. Inspect the deck areas directly in front of and behind the mast step. If the fiberglass feels spongy or yields under foot pressure, the core has likely separated or become saturated.
- Hull-to-Deck Joint: Because the Trac-18 utilized a solid or semi-solid bridge deck rather than a simple tensioned trampoline, the stress points where the deck meets the hulls are under significant torque. Check for "crazing" or spiderweb cracks in the gelcoat at these junctions, which may indicate structural fatigue.
- Rudder Kick-up Mechanism: The original AMF hardware was robust but complex. Ensure the kick-up rudders lock firmly into the "down" position and release easily. Parts for these specific castings are no longer in production, making broken rudder heads a difficult and expensive repair.
- Foam Saturation: Some iterations of the Trac hulls used internal foam for buoyancy. If the boat feels significantly heavier than its 450-lb specifications, it may be "waterlogged," a condition that is difficult to rectify and significantly hampers performance.
Community & Resources
While the Trac-18 does not have the massive, dedicated class association of the Sunfish, it remains a respected "cult" boat within the broader Alcort and AMF enthusiast circles. Technical support is most frequently found through the Sunfish Forum archives and local multihull clubs that specialize in "orphan" beach cats. Owners often look to the United States Sunfish Class Association for historical context on AMF’s manufacturing processes during the early 1980s, even though the Trac-18 is not a class-sanctioned racing boat for their events.
The Verdict
The AMF Trac-18 is an excellent choice for the sailor who wants catamaran speed without the constant threat of a capsize or the technical fragility of modern carbon-fiber racers. Its Morrison-designed hulls offer a level of "sea-kindliness" rarely found in 18-foot beach cats.
Pros:
- Stability: High bow buoyancy makes it much safer in heavy air and following seas.
- Predictable Tracking: Symmetrical hulls provide a stable, "on rails" feel.
- Durability: Built during an era of heavy fiberglass layups, these boats can last decades if kept dry.
- Dryer Ride: The hull and deck configuration keeps more spray away from the crew than traditional trampoline-only cats.
Cons:
- Weight: Heavier than many 18-foot competitors, making it difficult to manhandle on a beach without a dedicated dolly.
- Parts Availability: Unique hardware (rudders, mast steps) is no longer manufactured, requiring custom fabrication for major repairs.
- Resale Market: As a "niche" model, it can be harder to sell than a more famous brand like Hobie or Nacra.
