Arrow 1360 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Arrow 1360 is a dedicated performance cruiser, characterized by slim hull lines and a high power-to-weight ratio. With a lightship displacement of approximately 6,800 kg and a total upwind sail area of roughly 104 square meters, the vessel boasts a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of nearly 30, placing it firmly in the upper echelon of cruising catamarans. Owners and technical reviews, such as those found on Multihulls World, note that the boat is capable of sailing at or near wind speed in light conditions, often reaching 8 to 9 knots in just 10 knots of true wind.

Handling is defined by the use of deep daggerboards, which provide exceptional windward pointing ability—frequently 5 to 7 degrees higher than fixed-keel competitors—and significantly reduced leeway. The inclusion of kick-up rudders is a practical touch for those navigating shallow tropical waters or areas prone to floating debris. One of the most praised aspects of the Arrow 1360’s sea-kindliness is its lack of "hobby-horsing." The generous rocker and hull shape ensure a stable, level ride even in rougher seaways, allowing the boat to maintain high average speeds without the violent motion typical of higher-volume designs.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Arrow 1360 is optimized for weight-sensitive cruising, often utilizing lightweight materials like infused bamboo or Corecell to maintain performance. A standout feature of the layout is the bridgedeck-level queen bunk, which provides an open, airy sleeping arrangement with excellent visibility, situated just forward of the main saloon. This is complemented by two additional queen cabins in the hulls, typically offering a three-cabin, two-head configuration. The port hull is frequently dedicated to the master suite, featuring a generous head and separate shower area forward.

The galley is positioned on the main bridgedeck level, designed with a serving hatch that opens directly to the cockpit, facilitating a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience. Headroom is ample, ranging between 1.90m and 1.96m in the hulls, ensuring a spacious feel despite the slim waterline. The Arrow 1360 is part of a broader family of designs, including the smaller Arrow 1200 and 1201, the performance-focused 1280-S, and the larger Arrow 1500, which offers a four-cabin standard layout better suited for larger families or charter operations.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Arrow 1360 has gained international recognition through several high-profile builds. One notable example is the "Vellamo" project, documented by Oceanvolt, where a non-profit organization in Switzerland (Ocean Youth Sailing) saw over 150 teenagers and young adults volunteer 6,500 hours to construct a fully electric Arrow 1360. This project highlighted the design's suitability for innovative propulsion systems and its accessibility for disciplined construction teams. Additionally, the specific Arrow 1360 "Duet" has been featured in extensive video walkthroughs, showcasing the model's ability to serve as a high-mileage global cruiser.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When evaluating an Arrow 1360, particularly on the secondary market, the primary focus should be on weight and build execution.

• Weight Overload: Performance multihulls are highly sensitive to weight. Prospective buyers should scrutinize the current payload; excessive aftermarket gear (large generators, heavy tenders, or glass windows replacing acrylic) can severely degrade the boat’s bridgedeck clearance and sailing performance.
• Composite Integrity: Since many Arrows are built from kits or as semi-custom projects, the quality of the infusion or hand-layup is critical. A moisture and percussion test of the core (whether Corecell or balsa) is essential to ensure no delamination has occurred, particularly around through-hull fittings.
• Daggerboard Trunks: Inspect the daggerboard cases for signs of stress cracking or wear. The trunks should be watertight and the boards should move freely without excessive rattling, which can be a nuisance in some builds.
• Systems Engineering: Given Pantawee Marine’s high standards, professional builds will likely follow ABYC or CE standards. However, owner-finished boats should be checked for consistent electrical and plumbing logic, specifically looking for the supervision of experienced marine engineers.

Community & Resources

Owners of Arrow models benefit from the robust support of Schionning Designs, which provides "unlimited back-up service" for their plans and kits. While there is no single-model "Arrow 1360 Association," the broader Schionning owner community is active on technical forums and through the designer’s own resources. Pantawee Marine remains a primary point of contact for professional build support and refit information for vessels located in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Verdict

The Arrow 1360 is a discerning sailor’s catamaran, offering a level of performance that few production yachts can match without sacrificing the essential comforts required for long-term living.

Pros

• Exceptional Speed: Regularly sails at wind speed and excels in light air where other cats are forced to motor.
• Modern Engineering: The flat-panel "stealth" design is not only visually striking but structurally efficient.
• Shallow Draft: Daggerboards and kick-up rudders allow access to the most remote anchorages and beaching capability.
• High Bridgedeck Clearance: 800mm of clearance significantly reduces slamming in heavy seas.

Cons

• Payload Sensitivity: Performance is quickly compromised if the boat is overloaded with heavy cruising luxuries.
• Manual Operation: Daggerboards and high-performance rigs require more active management than fixed-keel cruisers.
• Stealth Aesthetics: The angular, flat-panel look is a "love it or hate it" departure from traditional curved yacht lines.