Sailing Performance & Handling
The sailing characteristics of the Play Cat are defined by extreme stability and simplified control. Because it is a catamaran, it lacks a traditional heavy keel, instead relying on the buoyancy and beam of its twin hulls to resist heeling. This makes the boat exceptionally "sea-kindly" for beginners, as it remains relatively level even in gusty conditions. The Play Cat typically features the Escape "Smart-Rig" or "AutoTack" system, which utilizes a wishbone boom and a boomless mainsail that can be furled directly around the mast.
On the water, the boat is not designed for high-performance racing but rather for predictable tracking. The steering is handled by a kick-up rudder system, essential for beach landings. According to technical descriptions from the American Sailing Association, which has historically recognized the brand's contribution to entry-level education, the Escape's sail plan is designed to be depowered quickly by simply releasing the mainsheet, a safety feature that appeals to families. However, due to the high-drag nature of the wide polyethylene hulls and the lack of a jib, the boat’s upwind performance is modest. It is most at home on a reach or a run, where the displacement-style hulls can slide across the water with minimal effort.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
When inspecting a pre-owned Escape Play Cat, the most critical area of concern is the condition of the polyethylene hull. While incredibly durable and impact-resistant, roto-molded plastic is susceptible to UV degradation if left uncovered in tropical sun for years.
- UV Chalking and Brittleness: Check the hulls for a "chalky" residue or significant fading. If the plastic feels brittle or shows spiderweb-like surface cracks, its structural integrity may be compromised.
- Rudder Bracket Stress: The point where the rudder assembly attaches to the plastic transom is a high-stress area. Inspect for elongated bolt holes or "mushrooming" of the plastic, which indicates the hardware has been stressed by grounding.
- Mast Step Integrity: On the Play Cat, the mast sits in a molded pocket. Inspect this area for debris or signs of wallowing. Because the boat is often used in sandy environments, grit can act as an abrasive, wearing down the base of the mast or the pocket itself.
- Hardware Backing: Because polyethylene cannot be easily fiberglassed, hardware is often through-bolted with backing plates. Ensure that cleats and blocks are still tight; if they are loose, the internal backing may have compressed the plastic over time.
Community & Resources
While Escape Sailboat Co. ceased operations in 2009, a dedicated community of owners remains, primarily focused on the preservation of these "indestructible" beach boats. Technical support is largely found through informal owner groups and historical documentation from the American Sailing Association. Because many Play Cats were sold to resorts like Club Med or Sunsail, retired fleet mechanics often serve as the best source for workaround repairs, particularly for the proprietary "Smart-Rig" furling components.
The Verdict
The Escape Play Cat is an ideal "cabin boat" or beach toy for those who prioritize safety and ease of use over technical sailing sophistication. Its roto-molded construction makes it nearly maintenance-free compared to fiberglass alternatives.
Pros:
- Exceptional Stability: The catamaran platform is nearly impossible to capsize in standard recreational conditions.
- Extreme Durability: The polyethylene hulls can be dragged across sand or bumped into docks without the fear of gelcoat chips.
- Simplicity: The furling mast and wishbone boom allow for rapid setup and easy storage.
Cons:
- Weight: Roto-molded plastic is heavier than fiberglass, making the boat more difficult to hand-launch without a dolly.
- Limited Upwind Ability: The shallow hulls and simple sail plan make it difficult to point high into the wind.
- Repair Difficulty: Deep gouges or cracks in polyethylene require specialized plastic welding and cannot be fixed with standard epoxy kits.
