Atlantic City Cat Boat Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Atlantic City Cat Boat are defined by its immense initial stability and the inherent power of its gaff-headed rig. With a beam-to-length ratio that approaches 1:2.4, the hull provides a stiff, flat sailing platform that resists heeling far longer than contemporary narrow-beamed sloops. This makes it an approachable vessel for families or those who prefer "sailing on their feet" rather than at an extreme angle. The single large mainsail, controlled by a simple mainsheet and halyards, simplifies the sail plan, though the sheer size of the boom and the gaff spar requires respect during maneuvers.

In terms of handling, the boat possesses the characteristic "weather helm" common to the catboat design. As wind speeds increase, the pressure on the expansive mainsail pulls the bow toward the wind, requiring a firm hand on the tiller or wheel. However, the massive "barn door" rudder provides significant leverage, and seasoned catboat sailors often mitigate this pressure by reefing early or adjusting the centerboard depth. According to historical perspectives on the model's lineage found at Soundings Online, the Atlantic City 24 was praised for its ability to handle the shallow, choppy waters of the Barnegat Bay, where its two-foot draft (with the centerboard up) allowed it to explore reaches inaccessible to fin-keel cruisers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike many open-cockpit daysailers of its era, the Atlantic City Cat Boat features a surprisingly voluminous cabin facilitated by its ten-foot beam. The interior layout typically follows a traditional "V" configuration, with two large berths forward and a small but functional galley area. The absence of a mid-mast—since the mast is stepped at the very bow—creates an open, airy feeling in the main salon that is rare in 24-footers. The woodwork is often characterized by heavy teak trim against white fiberglass, emphasizing a salty, traditional atmosphere.

Variations of the City Cat Boat exist primarily in the powertrain and the level of owner-finishing. While many were factory-delivered with small diesel engines like the Yanmar or Universal series, some were sold as "hull and deck" kits, leading to significant diversity in interior joinery and storage solutions. The most significant sibling in the Atlantic City lineup was the smaller Atlantic City 18, which followed similar design principles but lacked the standing headroom and cruising amenities of the 24-foot model.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Atlantic City Cat Boat is frequently cited in the literature of the catboat revival. It receives specific technical and historical mention in Stan Grayson’s definitive book, Catboats, where it is noted for its role in bringing the catboat aesthetic to a wider audience through fiberglass production. The model is a staple at gatherings hosted by The Catboat Association, where it is recognized as one of the "modern" fiberglass pioneers that helped preserve the gaff-rigged tradition in the late 20th century.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Atlantic City Cat Boat should focus their inspection on the specific stresses inherent to a gaff-rigged catboat.

• Centerboard Trunk: The centerboard trunk is a critical structural element. Inspect the area where the trunk meets the hull for signs of weeping or stress cracks. The centerboard pennant (the cable used to raise the board) should be checked for fraying, as failure often occurs at the pulley transition.
• Mast Step and Partners: Because the mast is unstayed (lacking shrouds) and stepped far forward, the mast partners and the step itself endure significant leverage. Look for crazing in the gelcoat around the deck hole or compression signs at the base.
• Rudder Hardware: The "barn door" rudder is heavy and subject to high torque. Gudgeons and pintles should be inspected for play or metal fatigue.
• Deck Core: Like many boats of this era, the Atlantic City 24 utilized a cored deck. Use a phenolic hammer to tap for "dead" sounds, which indicate delamination or water ingress around hardware fittings.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support and social gathering for this model is The Catboat Association. This organization maintains a wealth of knowledge regarding Floyd Ayers' designs and provides a network of owners who share maintenance tips specifically for gaff rigs and centerboard maintenance.

The Verdict

The Atlantic City Cat Boat is an ideal choice for the traditionalist who desires the soul of a 19th-century workboat without the maintenance burden of a wooden hull. It excels in shallow-water gunkholing and provides a stable, social platform for coastal cruising.

Pros:

• Exceptional stability and massive cockpit space for its length.
• Draft of only two feet allows for shallow-water exploration.
• Simple, powerful gaff rig eliminates the need for complex winches and stays.
• Spacious interior for a 24-footer due to the wide beam and forward mast position.

Cons:

• Pronounced weather helm can be physically demanding in heavy air.
• Large mainsail and gaff spar are heavy to hoist compared to a modern sloop.
• Slow upwind performance compared to contemporary fin-keel designs.