Hurricane 5.9 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Hurricane 5.9 is defined by its balance of raw power and predictable handling. As a twin-trapeze catamaran, it requires a coordinated crew to manage its 215 square feet of upwind sail area. The boat’s handling characteristics are often described as "locked-in"; the deep, symmetrical hulls provide excellent tracking and minimize the "hobby-horsing" common in shorter, more rockered designs. According to technical insights from the Hurricane 5.9 Class Association, the design excels in a wide range of conditions, remaining remarkably stable in heavy air while maintaining enough finesse to stay moving in light coastal breezes.

The introduction of the "SX" configuration significantly altered the boat's performance profile. The SX variant adds a large asymmetric spinnaker (323 sq ft), a self-tacking jib, and an 11-foot carbon-fiber bowsprit. This evolution transformed the boat from a traditional tactical racer into a modern high-speed skiff-style catamaran. Under the SX rig, the boat accelerates rapidly on a reach, requiring the crew to be highly active with weight distribution to prevent pitch-pilling. Despite its speed, the 5.9 is frequently cited by owners as being more "forgiving" than the Olympic-class Nacra 17, making it a favorite for seasoned club sailors who want high-performance sailing without the fragility of ultra-light carbon racing machines.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Hurricane 5.9 has enjoyed a robust presence in British yachting media for decades, frequently appearing in performance reviews by Yachts & Yachting. It is often held up as a benchmark for the "UK Catamaran Circuit," having served as the platform for numerous national championships that draw elite talent. The boat’s longevity is a frequent topic of discussion in sailing circles, often used as the primary example of how a well-managed one-design class can sustain a boat's value and community for over forty years. Its cultural footprint is most visible at the annual "Sporting Giants" regattas and the massive multi-class events like the Weston Grand Slam, where the Hurricane fleet typically represents one of the most competitive catamaran starts.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Hurricane 5.9 is famously overbuilt compared to modern "disposable" racers, there are specific technical areas that prospective buyers should scrutinize:

• Beam Bolt Tightness and Housing: The structural integrity of the boat relies heavily on the connection between the aluminum cross-beams and the hulls. Over time, the bolt holes in the hull sockets can become ovalized if sailed with a loose rig. Buyers should check for movement in the beams and ensure the "dolphin striker" (the tensioning rod under the front beam) is properly tuned.
• Hull Softness: While the foam sandwich construction is durable, high-stress areas—particularly forward of the main beam and around the shroud chainplates—can develop soft spots or delamination. A firm "tap test" across the deck and hull sides is essential to identify voids.
• Rudder Stock Wear: The rudder system is a sophisticated kick-up design. Owners often report wear in the plastic bushings or the aluminum stocks themselves, which leads to "slop" in the steering. This significantly degrades the helming experience at high speeds.
• SX Conversion Integrity: If buying an older boat that has been converted to the SX rig, inspect the bowsprit mounting points and the reinforced areas where the self-tacking jib track is mounted. Poorly executed retrofits can lead to localized stress cracking.

Community & Resources

The boat is supported by the Hurricane 5.9 Class Association, which is one of the most active catamaran communities in Europe. The association provides extensive technical manuals, tuning guides, and a regulated second-hand market. Furthermore, the original builder, White Formula, continues to offer replacement parts, sails, and technical support, ensuring that even vintage 1980s hulls can be maintained to modern racing standards.

The Verdict

The Hurricane 5.9 remains one of the most successful performance catamarans ever produced in the UK, offering a rare combination of durability, high-speed thrills, and a dedicated racing community.

Pros:

• Exceptional Longevity: Heavy-duty construction means 30-year-old boats are still winning races.
• Strict One-Design: Prevents an "arms race" and protects the resale value of the vessels.
• Versatile Performance: The SX rig provides modern asymmetric speed, while the standard rig remains a great teaching platform.

Cons:

• Physical Demands: Requires two fit crew members; it is not a solo-friendly boat in most conditions.
• Weight: Heavier than modern carbon-fiber equivalents, making beach launching and recovery a two-person job.
• Regional Concentration: The strongest fleets and spare parts availability are primarily centered in the United Kingdom.