Menger Cat 17 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing dynamics of the Menger Cat 17 are defined by its high initial stability and the immense power of its single gaff-headed mainsail. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio that is typically high for its class, the boat excels in light to moderate air, where the large sail area can be transitioned into forward momentum quickly. Because the mast is stepped far forward—a hallmark of the catboat design—the boat carries a significant amount of weather helm if the sail is not properly reefed as the wind increases.

Handling is generally described as forgiving but requires an understanding of gaff-rig nuances. The boat utilizes a barn-door rudder and a heavy steel centerboard; the latter provides excellent tracking when down but allows the boat to "turn on a dime" when retracted. According to technical insights often shared by The Catboat Association, the hull is remarkably stiff, typically reaching a point of heel where it "locks in" and resists further tipping, providing a sense of security for less experienced sailors. However, sailors should be prepared for the physical nature of the gaff rig, specifically managing the throat and peak halyards during the hoist.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike the smaller Menger Cat 15, which is predominantly an open daysailer, the Cat 17 features an enclosed cabin that maximizes the boat's 8-foot beam. The interior is surprisingly spacious for a boat of this length, offering two full-length berths that often extend under the cockpit seats. While there is no standing headroom—a physical impossibility in a 17-foot hull—the sitting headroom is generous, allowing for comfortable lounging or meal preparation.

Variations of the Cat 17 often include different trim packages, with many owners opting for the "high-end" finish featuring teak or oak cabinetry and bronze hardware. The cabin usually includes space for a portable head and a small galley area. The Cat 17 sits in the middle of the Menger lineage, flanked by the more compact 15 and the larger Menger Cat 19 and 23 models. While the 19-footer offers a more dedicated cruising interior with a permanent galley and more storage, the 17-footer is often cited as the "sweet spot" for those who want a cabin but still wish to maintain ease of trailering.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspection on the specific mechanical and structural points unique to the Menger build and the catboat rig.

• Centerboard Trunk and Pennant: The heavy steel centerboard is raised and lowered via a wire pennant. Inspect the attachment point and the pennant itself for fraying or corrosion. Because the trunk is a common point for leaks in older fiberglass boats, check the hull-to-trunk joint for signs of weeping or stress cracks.
• Gaff Rig Hardware: The gaff rig puts significant stress on the mast hoops and the gaff jaws. Inspect the wooden gaff and boom for any checking or rot, and ensure the leathering on the jaws is in good condition to prevent mast chafing.
• Deck Core Integrity: Menger used balsa-coring in the decks to maintain rigidity while saving weight. Use a plastic hammer to "tap out" the deck; a dull thud instead of a sharp "crack" can indicate delamination or water ingress, particularly around the chainplates and the tabernacle.
• Rudder Bushings: The large "barn-door" rudder is subject to high loads. Check for excessive play in the pintles and gudgeons, which can lead to vibration or a "clunky" feeling at the helm.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for owners is The Catboat Association, an organization dedicated to the preservation and enjoyment of the catboat design. They provide technical bulletins and organize "rendezvous" events where Menger owners frequently congregate. Additionally, since the brand’s transition, technical support and parts can often be sourced through Thompson Boatworks, the successor company that continued the Menger legacy by building the Thom Cat series based on the original molds.

The Verdict

The Menger Cat 17 is a stout, traditional cruiser that punches far above its weight class in terms of stability and charm. It is an ideal vessel for the "minimalist cruiser" or the sailor who appreciates the aesthetic of a bygone era without the maintenance of a wooden hull.

Pros:

• Exceptional stability due to the wide beam and heavy centerboard.
• Large cockpit and surprisingly roomy cabin for a 17-foot boat.
• Strong resale value and a dedicated, knowledgeable owner community.
• Easy to trailer and launch compared to deeper-keeled monohulls.

Cons:

• Weather helm can be tiring if the sail is not reefed early.
• The gaff rig is more complex to tune and douse than a modern Bermuda rig.
• Limited performance when sailing close-hauled compared to narrower, modern designs.