Sailing Performance & Handling
The Great Lakes Catboat is defined by its massive beam-to-length ratio; at 16 feet overall with an 8-foot beam, it possesses a Length/Beam ratio of 2.0. This geometry provides immense initial stability, allowing the boat to carry its 172 square feet of sail without the need for a large crew to act as "live ballast." According to technical specifications found on SailWiki, the boat utilizes an unstayed cat rig, which simplifies sail handling by removing the need for shrouds or a forestay. This "una rig" configuration is ideal for single-handed sailing, as there is only one sheet to manage during tacks.
With a Displacement/Length ratio of 166 and a Sail Area/Displacement ratio of approximately 23.7, the boat is categorized as a light-to-moderate performer. In light air, the large gaff or large-roach mainsail (depending on the specific rig option) provides significant drive, while the swing keel—extending from 0.58 feet to 3.0 feet—allows the boat to track well upwind. However, as is common with the catboat hull form, upwind performance is generally considered its weakest point compared to more modern sloop-rigged vessels, often suffering from significant weather helm if the sail is not properly reefed as the breeze freshens.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Despite its short 16-foot length, the Great Lakes Catboat is noted for being exceptionally "spacy." Historical data from YachtDatabase suggests that the design is roomier than nearly 98% of other boats in its size class, a direct result of its 8-foot beam being carried well forward. While specifics on the internal cabin layout are limited due to the low production numbers, catboats of this dimension typically feature a modest cuddy cabin with two "coffin" berths or a small V-berth, utilizing the centerboard trunk as a base for a folding table.
The cockpit is the primary living space, designed to accommodate four adults comfortably for day sailing. The wide hull ensures that the boat does not "tip" significantly when passengers move across the sole, a trait that makes it particularly appealing for older sailors or those prioritizing stability over raw speed.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Because only a dozen of these vessels were produced by Custom Yachts of Hamilton, a prospective buyer must perform a bespoke inspection of the fiberglass and rig.
- Mast Step Integrity: The unstayed mast places all of its torque directly onto the mast step and the partners. Over four decades, this can lead to stress cracking in the fiberglass or deck compression. Inspect the area around the mast hole for "spiderweb" crazing or signs of previous repair.
- Swing Keel Pivot and Trunk: The pivot pin of a swing keel is a common failure point in boats of this era. Check for lateral "slop" in the keel and inspect the trunk for leaks or structural cracks, which can be difficult to repair due to the limited access.
- Fiberglass Delamination: Standard for 1980s GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) construction, the deck should be checked for soft spots, particularly around the hardware mountings and the cockpit coamings, which may have been bedded with materials that have since degraded.
- Rudder Hardware: Catboats often experience heavy loads on the rudder. The gudgeons and pintles should be inspected for wear or elongated holes, which can lead to a vibrating or "chattering" helm.
The Verdict
The Great Lakes Catboat is a "big" small boat that offers the charm and simplicity of a traditional catboat with the low-maintenance benefits of a fiberglass hull. While its rarity makes finding parts specific to the model difficult, its standard rigging components and broad stability make it a unique choice for a solo sailor or a couple looking for a stable day sailer.
Pros
- Exceptional Stability: The 8-foot beam makes the boat nearly impossible to tip under normal conditions.
- Easy to Single-Hand: The unstayed rig and lack of headsails make tacking effortless.
- Shallow Draft: With the keel up, the boat can be beached or sailed into extremely shallow "skinny water."
Cons
- Extreme Rarity: With only 12 built, there is no active owner's association or secondary market for parts.
- Upwind Limitations: Like most catboats, it will not point as high as a modern sloop.
- Weather Helm: Requires active reefing to manage the helm as the wind increases.
