Laser Cat Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Laser Cat are defined by its wide beam-to-length ratio and its relatively low-aspect hulls. Unlike racing catamarans that utilize deep daggers or high-aspect skegs for upwind tracking, the Laser Cat features shallow, integrated skegs that allow for easy beaching and launch without the complexity of moving parts. This design choice, while sacrificing some pointing ability, makes the boat exceptionally stable and predictable.

On the water, the boat feels buoyant and stiff. Its light weight—roughly 150 to 170 pounds depending on the specific rigging—allows it to accelerate quickly in light puffs, though its top-end speed is limited by the drag of its shorter hulls. Technical data from original Performance Sailcraft specifications indicates a sail plan that is manageable even for solo sailors; the boat is typically rigged with a simple, high-boom mainsail that provides ample clearance for crew during tacks. Handling is described by owners as "tiller-heavy" in stronger gusts, but the boat’s wide stance makes it much harder to pitchpole than a Hobie 14. It is a dry ride in moderate conditions, though the short hulls will punch through chop rather than over it in heavier seas.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the Laser Cat does not have a dedicated literary footprint or a starring role in sailing cinema, it earned a reputation within the "Sunfish-style" resort culture of the early 1990s. It was frequently featured in manufacturer promotional materials alongside the Laser 2 and the Laser Fun, marketed as the "perfect cottage boat." Its cultural footprint is largely confined to the archives of the International Laser Class and historical retrospectives of Performance Sailcraft’s expansion into the multihull market. It is often mentioned in "Which Catamaran?" guides from the 1990s as a safer alternative for children or absolute beginners.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a vintage Laser Cat should focus their inspection on the structural integrity of the hulls and the condition of the specialized hardware.

• Hull Soft Spots: Like many fiberglass boats of this era produced by Performance Sailcraft, the Laser Cat is susceptible to delamination or "soft spots," particularly on the decks where sailors move most frequently. Press firmly across the deck surfaces; any flexing or crunching sounds indicate a breakdown of the core material.
• Mast Step Integrity: The mast step on a catamaran bears significant downward pressure. Check the area around the step for spiderweb cracking or compression. Repairing a compromised mast step on these small hulls can be difficult and often exceeds the value of the boat.
• Trampoline Tracks: The trampoline is held in place by aluminum tracks bolted or riveted to the hulls. Inspect these tracks for corrosion or pulling away from the fiberglass. Replacing a trampoline on a rare model like the Laser Cat may require a custom order, as off-the-shelf replacements are not as common as they are for Hobie or Dart models.
• Rudder Assemblies: The kick-up rudder system is essential for beaching. Ensure the locking mechanisms are not seized by salt or sand and that the pintles and gudgeons are not wallowed out, which leads to "slop" in the steering.

Community & Resources

There is no formal class association for the Laser Cat today; however, technical support is often found through the broader Laser sailing community. Technical specifications and rigging diagrams are occasionally archived by the International Laser Class Association (ILCA), though they primarily support the Olympic monohull. For parts and legacy support, the most reliable resources are long-standing Laser dealers who maintain "new old stock" or can cross-reference hardware with the Laser 2 or Laser Fun models.

The Verdict

The Laser Cat is an approachable, "set-it-and-forget-it" beach catamaran that excels as a platform for introducing new sailors to the joys of multihull sailing. While it lacks the raw speed of its larger cousins, its durability and simplicity make it an excellent choice for casual lake or coastal sailing.

Pros:

• Extreme Stability: The wide beam and low center of effort make it very difficult to capsize.
• Ease of Launch: Integrated skegs allow for worry-free beaching on sand or grass.
• Lightweight: Can be moved by two people and easily trailered or even roof-topped on some vehicles.

Cons:

• Parts Availability: As a discontinued and relatively rare model, sourcing specific hull fittings can be a challenge.
• Limited Performance: It will not satisfy sailors looking for high-speed "hull flying" or competitive racing.
• Resale Market: Harder to sell than a more recognizable brand like Hobie due to low name recognition.