Menger Cat 19 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Menger Cat 19 is defined by its massive gaff-rigged mainsail and its "barn door" rudder. With a beam of 8’6”, the boat offers immense initial stability, feeling more like a steady platform than a tender sailboat. In light air, the large sail area—roughly 310 square feet—allows the boat to move surprisingly well, catching breezes that would leave modern sloops becalmed. However, the handling characteristics of a catboat are unique; as the wind increases, the boat develops significant weather helm.

Experienced owners often note that the Menger 19 tells you exactly when to reef; if the rail is burying or the helm becomes a struggle, taking a reef in the gaff main usually balances the boat and actually increases speed by reducing drag from the rudder. The shallow draft (typically 1’10” with the board up) allows the Menger 19 to reach "gunkholes" inaccessible to most cruisers. While it does not point as high as a modern fin-keel sloop, its ability to track off the wind and its sea-kindly motion in a chop are frequently praised in technical discussions hosted by the Catboat Association.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The most striking feature of the Menger Cat 19 is its interior volume, which is a direct result of its 8'6" beam. This width allows for a cabin that feels remarkably spacious for a 19-foot boat. The standard layout features two long settees that double as berths, often extending forward into a V-berth configuration. Unlike the smaller Menger Cat 15 or 17, the 19-footer provides enough headroom and floor space to accommodate a portable head and a modest galley area with a sink and stove.

Material choices typically reflect the boat's traditional identity, featuring teak trim, bronze portlights, and high-quality fiberglass work. While the hull remained consistent, Menger offered variations in the "Weekender" versus "Daysailer" configurations. The Weekender focuses on cabin amenities for overnighting, while the less common daysailing variants might emphasize cockpit space. The Menger Cat 19 also has several siblings built on similar philosophies, including the smaller Menger Cat 15, the intermediate Menger Cat 17, and the much larger Menger Cat 23 (also known as the Oysterman 23), which added a full keel and an even more expansive interior.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a used Menger Cat 19, the primary areas of concern relate to its traditional rigging and its centerboard system.

• Centerboard and Trunk: The centerboard is a critical component for windward performance. Buyers should check the pennant (the line or cable used to raise the board) for fraying and ensure the board moves freely. Over time, the pivot pin can wear, leading to thumping or misalignment.
• Gaff Rig Hardware: The gaff jaws and the throat and peak halyards undergo significant stress. Inspect the wooden mast and gaff (if applicable) for checking or rot, and ensure the bronze hardware is not pitted or cracked.
• Chainplates and Deck Core: While Menger builds are known for being overbuilt, any boat from the 1980s or 90s may suffer from deck leaks. Pay close attention to the chainplates and the area around the tabernacle (the mast hinge), as water ingress here can soften the core.
• Engine Maintenance: Many Menger 19s are equipped with small inboard diesels (like the Yanmar 1GM10). Check the motor mounts and the exhaust elbow, as these small engines are often neglected in trailer-sailer environments.

Community & Resources

The Menger Cat 19 benefits from a dedicated community of enthusiasts who value the "character boat" aesthetic. The Catboat Association is the primary resource for technical support, providing a vast library of maintenance tips specifically for gaff-rigged vessels. Additionally, because the molds and rights were transitioned to Jerry Thompson, Thompson Boatworks remains a vital resource for parts, repairs, and historical data for owners of original Menger-built hulls.

The Verdict

The Menger Cat 19 is an ideal choice for the traditionalist who wants a trailerable cruiser with genuine "big boat" feel and classic aesthetics.

Pros:

• Exceptional Stability: The wide beam provides a secure, stiff sailing experience.
• Spacious Interior: More cabin room than almost any other 19-foot sailboat on the market.
• Thin-Water Capability: The centerboard design allows for beaching and exploring shallow bays.
• Timeless Aesthetic: Bronze and teak accents combined with a gaff rig ensure the boat turns heads in any harbor.

Cons:

• Weather Helm: Requires active sail management and early reefing to keep the helm light.
• Weight: At roughly 2,900 lbs plus a trailer, it requires a substantial tow vehicle.
• Pointing Ability: Like most catboats, it will not sail as close to the wind as a modern sloop.