Catalac 8 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Catalac 8M are defined by its substantial displacement and conservative rig. With a relatively high displacement-to-length ratio for a catamaran, it is not a "flyer" in light winds; however, it offers a level of stability and predictability that many monohulls of the same length lack. The boat features vertical transoms and a wide beam of nearly 14 feet, which provides significant initial stability. According to technical assessments from the era, the 8M is a "stiff" boat that carries its sail well into freshening breezes before needing a reef.

Handling under power is one of the 8M's strengths, particularly when equipped with twin engines—a common configuration for this model, which often utilized twin outboards or small twin diesels. This setup allows the boat to pivot on its own axis, making it exceptionally easy to maneuver in tight marinas. Under sail, the 8M tracks reasonably well due to its shallow fixed keels, though it lacks the close-hauled pointing ability of a performance catamaran with daggerboards. Owners often report that the boat feels most at home on a reach or a run. A common critique found in historical reviews by Practical Boat Owner regarding early Catalacs is "bridgedeck slamming." Because the 8M sits relatively low to the water with a solid bridgedeck, it can experience noisy "slapping" when heading into a short, steep chop, a trade-off for the massive interior volume achieved by the low-slung design.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Catalac 8M is widely considered its greatest achievement, offering a level of "living room" comfort rarely seen in a 27-foot vessel. The layout typically features a central "bridge deck" saloon with a wraparound dinette that provides panoramic views—a revolutionary feature at the time of its release. The 8M offers surprising headroom, often exceeding six feet in the hulls, where the galley and heads (bathroom) are located.

Materially, the interiors are finished with a mix of molded GRP liners and teak trim, reflecting the "overbuilt" philosophy of Tom Lack. The 8M shared significant design DNA with its larger sibling, the Catalac 9M; while the 9M offered more dedicated cabin space and a wider beam, the 8M managed to retain the same "one-level" social feel in the saloon. Some variants featured different cabin configurations, with later models often incorporating improved ventilation and upgraded cabinetry. The 8M’s ability to sleep up to five adults comfortably made it a favorite for young families who wanted the stability of a multihull without the six-figure price tag of larger cruising cats.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Catalac 8M should focus on several specific aging points inherent to its 1970s/80s construction:

• Window Seals and Leaks: The large, iconic salon windows are prone to leaking over decades. Because these windows provide structural integrity to the cabin house, any signs of crazing or failed sealant should be addressed immediately to prevent water damage to the interior woodwork.
• Rudder Linkage: The 8M uses a mechanical linkage system to synchronize the two rudders. This system can develop "play" or corrosion in the pins and bearings. Buyers should check for responsiveness and ensure there is no significant vibration at cruising speeds.
• Deck Delamination: While the hulls are solid, the decks are often cored. Inspect the solid foredeck and side decks for soft spots, which indicate moisture ingress into the core—a common issue if deck hardware has not been re-bedded recently.
• Osmosis: While Catalacs were heavily glassed, like all GRP boats from this era, they can be susceptible to osmotic blistering. A hull survey is recommended, though the thickness of the laminate often means these issues are cosmetic rather than structural.
• Wiring Integration: As noted in the builder's history, Tom Lack sometimes embedded wiring directly into the fiberglass. While protected, this makes upgrading or repairing electrical circuits difficult, often requiring owners to run new conduit rather than pulling through old paths.

Community & Resources

The Catalac 8M benefits from one of the most dedicated owner communities in the multihull world. The Catalac Owners Group provides a wealth of technical knowledge and original brochures. For technical specifications and historical context, the Cruising Association maintains records on many of these classic British builds, and the original design notes by John Winterbotham are often discussed within specialized multihull forums like CruisersForum, though primary documentation is best sourced from the owners' association technical wiki.

The Verdict

The Catalac 8M is a "pocket" blue-water cruiser that prioritizes safety, space, and stability over raw speed. It is an ideal entry-level catamaran for those transitioning from monohulls or for coastal cruisers who value a flat sailing platform.

Pros:

• Immense Volume: Offers the interior living space of a much larger monohull.
• Exceptional Stability: Low center of gravity and wide beam make it very safe for families.
• Maneuverability: Excellent dockside handling when equipped with twin engines.
• Robust Build: Known for "overbuilt" GRP construction that stands the test of time.

Cons:

• Bridgedeck Slamming: Can be noisy and uncomfortable in short, head-on seas.
• Windage: The high freeboard and cabin profile make it prone to being blown off course in high winds at low speeds.
• Sailing Angle: Limited ability to point high into the wind compared to modern fin-keel or daggerboard designs.