Sailing Performance & Handling
The Havcat 27 is defined by its displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio of approximately 134, a figure that firmly categorizes the vessel as a light racer-cruiser. This low weight, combined with a hull length-to-beam ratio of roughly 8:1, allows the boat to easily exceed its theoretical hull speed under the right conditions. Unlike many modern cruising catamarans that rely on fixed low-aspect keels, the Havcat 27 utilizes twin daggerboards. According to technical data from Multihulls World, this configuration enables a maximum draft of nearly 5 feet when boards are down, providing the lateral resistance necessary for superior upwind pointing and reduced leeway.
Handling is reported by owners to be exceptionally responsive, feeling more like a large dinghy than a heavy cruiser. The boat’s fractional sloop rig is manageable for single-handed sailing, and the use of lifting rudders allows the boat to be beached or navigated in waters as shallow as 1.3 feet. The boat is typically powered by a 10 HP long-shaft outboard motor mounted on the aft crossbeam; while this provides sufficient maneuverability in marinas, the boat’s true habitat is under sail, where it can reach speeds of 10 to 13 knots in moderate breezes.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Havcat 27 reflects the constraints of its narrow, high-performance hulls. The layout is split between the two hulls, with the central bridge deck primarily reserved for a large double berth that is accessible from either side. In the standard model, the focus is on "open-air living," featuring a large T-shaped cockpit. However, the Havcat 27 C (Cruiser) variant incorporates an enclosed bridge-deck cabin, providing a more traditional protected saloon area at the cost of some aerodynamic efficiency.
Inside the hulls, the design provides a surprising 1.80 meters (approx. 5'11") of standing headroom in the central sections. Technical documentation from the Catamaran en Trimaran Club (CTC) Nederland notes that the starboard hull typically houses the galley and a quarter berth, while the port hull contains the navigation station and the heads. Materials are generally functional, utilizing a mix of solid GRP below the waterline and foam-sandwich construction for the decks and topsides to keep weight to a minimum.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on the unique structural points of a 40-year-old catamaran. The daggerboard trunks are a primary area of concern; they are subject to significant stress and should be checked for cracks or water ingress into the core. Similarly, the rudder housings on early models were known to be a weak point; many owners have retrofitted these with more robust units from the later Havcat 28 or Mycat 28 designs to improve reliability.
The deck and cabin top are of sandwich construction, making a moisture meter essential during surveys to identify potential delamination or soft spots in the foam core. Additionally, the front crossbeam—a critical structural component—should be inspected for corrosion or fatigue, especially if the boat has been raced or sailed hard in offshore conditions. Finally, because these boats often use outboards, the mounting bracket and the integrity of the aft beam where the engine is located should be verified.
Community & Resources
The Havcat 27 maintains a presence within Northern European multihull circles, particularly through the Catamaran en Trimaran Club (CTC) Nederland, which serves as a repository for owner knowledge and technical data. While no longer in production, the designer, Lars Oudrup, has historically remained available for consultation on major modifications, such as the crossbeam upgrades common in the fleet.
The Verdict
The Havcat 27 is an uncompromising micro-cruiser that offers a level of sailing engagement rarely found in modern catamarans of this size. It is best suited for coastal explorers and performance enthusiasts who value the ability to beach their boat and outrun larger monohulls.
- Pros:
- Excellent upwind performance due to twin daggerboards.
- Extremely shallow draft with boards and rudders raised.
- Standing headroom in hulls despite the small overall footprint.
- Cons:
- Limited bridge-deck clearance can lead to "slamming" in choppy seas.
- Interior space is narrow and may feel cramped for long-term liveaboards.
- Rare model with limited availability of specific replacement parts.
