Narai Mk I & II Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Narai Mk I & II are defined by the "flex-system," which allows the hulls to move independently in a seaway. This reduces the structural stresses common in rigid catamarans and results in a remarkably soft motion in choppy water. However, because the Narai uses deep V-hulls to provide lateral resistance rather than daggers or keels, its performance to windward is modest compared to modern performance multihulls. It typically tacks through 100 to 110 degrees, though it excels on a reach or a run, where the slim hulls and light displacement allow it to surf easily.

The sail area-to-displacement ratio is conservative, as the boat was designed to be handled by a small crew in heavy weather. Owners often report that the boat feels "planted" rather than flighty; it is a weight-carrying cruiser rather than a racing machine. The Mk I and II versions typically featured a ketch or cutter rig with a low center of effort, which minimizes the risk of pitch-poling—a significant concern in early catamaran history. Handling is described as predictable, though the lack of a central cockpit or bridge deck cabin means the helmsman is exposed to the elements, emphasizing the Narai’s identity as a "trekking" vehicle for the sea.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Living aboard a Narai Mk I or II is an exercise in maritime minimalism. Unlike modern catamarans that feature expansive bridge deck saloons, the Narai’s accommodation is strictly confined to the two hulls. This "split-living" arrangement provides excellent privacy between the port and starboard hulls but requires crew to go "on deck" to move between the galley, the chart table, and the sleeping quarters.

The Mk I hulls are narrow, following the strict V-shape, which provides standing headroom only in the center of the hulls where the floorboards are lowest. The Mk II introduced slight variations in internal framing to maximize the usable "flex-space" within the hulls. Typically, one hull is dedicated to a galley and a small dinette, while the other houses a navigation station and berths. The finish is almost always plywood and epoxy, reflecting the boat's origins as a home-built project. In 1979, the design was succeeded by the Narai Mk IV, a significantly broader and more voluminous sibling that increased the beam to 20 feet and offered much more interior volume, though it sacrificed some of the Mk I's "lean" aesthetic.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Narai achieved legendary status through the voyages and writings of James Wharram himself. The design is a centerpiece of Wharram’s philosophy, as detailed in his book The Ocean-Going Catamaran, which served as a manifesto for the "People's Yachting" movement. The Narai's reputation was further cemented by high-profile voyages, including those of Hanneke Boon and Wharram, which demonstrated that a plywood, lashed-together boat could safely circumnavigate the globe. While later models like the Tiki series gained more YouTube fame in the modern era, the Narai remains the "spiritual father" of the Wharram fleet and is frequently cited in multihull histories as the design that proved the seaworthiness of the lashed-beam concept.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

As a plywood-composite vessel that is often decades old, the Narai requires a rigorous inspection of its structural integrity.

• Plywood Rot: The most critical area for inspection is the "end grain" of the plywood, particularly at the stem, stern, and where the beams meet the hulls. Any signs of soft spots or delamination in the epoxy coating can indicate catastrophic rot within the timber.
• Lashing Points: The beam troughs—the areas where the cross-beams sit on the hulls—are high-stress zones. Buyers should check for crushing of the wood or structural cracks. The lashings themselves (usually polyester or Dyneema) are consumable items and should be replaced every few years.
• Rudder Stocks: The Narai uses a simple pintle-and-gudgeon or lashed rudder system. These are prone to wear and play. Ensure the rudders are balanced and that the mounting points on the transom are reinforced.
• Deck Leaks: Because the boat is constructed of multiple components lashed together, movement is natural, but this movement can stress the seals around hatches and chainplates. Persistent leaks in a plywood boat are a precursor to rot.

Community & Resources

The Narai enjoys support from a dedicated global community. The Wharram Owners Association (Polynesian Catamaran Association) is the primary resource for technical data, modification advice, and historical archives. This association organizes "meets" and provides a platform for owners to share build photos and restoration techniques. Additionally, James Wharram Designs continues to offer technical support and updated plans for those maintaining or even building new iterations of these classic hulls.

The Verdict

The Narai Mk I & II is not a yacht for those seeking luxury or high-pointing performance; it is a sea-proven tool for the adventurer who values simplicity and structural flexibility.

Pros:

• Exceptional Sea-kindliness: The lashed hulls absorb wave energy, providing a comfortable motion.
• Low Draft: The V-hulls allow for beaching and exploring shallow lagoons.
• Affordability: Low entry cost and simple systems make it accessible for budget cruisers.
• Safety: The multihull configuration provides inherent buoyancy and stability.

Cons:

• Limited Interior Volume: Narrow hulls and no bridge deck cabin make for cramped living.
• Windward Performance: Significant leeway when sailing close-hauled.
• High Maintenance: Plywood/epoxy construction requires constant vigilance against moisture.
• Exposure: The lack of a sheltered bridge deck means the crew is often exposed to spray and wind.