The Hirondelle Mk I, designed by Chris Simpson in the late 1960s, represents a foundational moment in the history of the "pocket" cruising catamaran. Measuring 23 feet in length, this British-designed multihull was among the first to successfully blend the high-speed potential of a racing catamaran with the basic accommodations required for coastal weekend cruising. Built primarily by Hirondelle Cats in Essex, UK, the Mk I established a legacy for safety and seaworthiness that was famously cemented when an early model completed a transatlantic crossing, a feat that helped dispel contemporary skepticism regarding the stability of small multihulls. While modern catamarans have moved toward high-volume "condo-maran" aesthetics, the Mk I remains a purist's choice, favored for its slender hulls and low-profile silhouette.
Hirondelle Mk I Sailboats for Sale & Market Overview
- Make
- Hirondelle
- Model
- Mk I
- Builder
- Brian Carvill & Assoc.
- Designer
- Chris Hammond
- Number Built
- Production Year(s)
- 1968 - ??
Below are the most recent Hirondelle Mk I sailboat listings (up to 10).
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| Source | Year | Make | Model | Price | Cabins | Heads | City | Country | Listing Date | |
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