Screamer 12 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Screamer 12m is widely regarded by multihull enthusiasts as a "sailor’s catamaran." Unlike modern production cats that prioritize interior volume over hydrodynamics, the Screamer 12m features narrow, high-aspect hulls that minimize drag. Most iterations utilize deep daggerboards rather than fixed mini-keels, allowing the boat to point significantly higher than its contemporary competitors. This design choice provides a tactile, responsive feel at the helm, often compared to a large dinghy.

Handling is characterized by rapid acceleration and the ability to maintain high average speeds in light air. According to historical design notes from the Crowther archives, the vessel was engineered to comfortably exceed wind speed in many conditions. Its sea-kindliness is bolstered by a high bridge deck, which reduces the "slamming" effect common in less sophisticated multihull designs. In heavy weather, the Screamer 12m tracks well due to its balanced sail plan, though its high power-to-weight ratio requires an attentive crew to manage reefing schedules early.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Screamer 12m reflects its performance pedigree, favoring a functional, weight-conscious layout over the "floating apartment" aesthetic of modern charters. The main saloon typically occupies the bridge deck, offering panoramic views and a central galley. Because many of these boats were semi-custom or owner-finished, internal configurations vary. Common layouts include two double cabins in the forward sections of the hulls with additional berths or heads located aft.

The use of materials like foam-cored cabinetry and lightweight laminates was standard to keep the displacement low. Headroom is generally sufficient in the hulls, though the bridge deck height can feel more compact compared to high-volume cruisers. Sibling models include the smaller Screamer 10.6, which utilized a similar design philosophy on a shorter waterline, and the rare Screamer 15, which extended the concept into the 50-foot range for blue-water expeditions.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Screamer 12m gained significant recognition in the early 1990s within the multihull racing circuit. It was featured in editorial reviews by Cruising World, where it was noted for its performance-oriented design during the 1993 Boat of the Year evaluations. The model’s reputation was further cemented by its association with Lock Crowther, whose designs dominated international multihull racing for decades.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Screamer 12m should focus on the integrity of the sandwich construction and the specific hardware required for a high-performance cat.

• Core Integrity: Given the foam-sandwich construction, it is critical to inspect for delamination or water ingress, particularly around deck fittings and the daggerboard trunks.
• Daggerboard Trunks: These are high-load areas. Look for stress fractures or signs of "thumping" which indicates wear in the daggerboard bearings or structural fatigue in the trunks.
• Rigging Loads: The Screamer 12m generates significant righting moment. Inspect the chainplates and the mast step for signs of compression or movement, especially if the boat has been campaigned in offshore races.
• Weight Sensitivity: Owners often add heavy equipment (water makers, large battery banks, davits) over time. A "heavy" Screamer loses its performance advantage and sits lower than its designed waterline, which can lead to increased bridge deck slamming.

Community & Resources

The primary resource for Screamer 12m owners is the wider community of Lock Crowther design enthusiasts. Technical data and historical design insights are often maintained through the Crowther Design archives. While there is no longer a dedicated "Screamer" manufacturer association, owners frequently congregate within the Multihull Yacht Club of Victoria or through technical discussions on various multihull-specific sailing platforms.

The Verdict

The Screamer 12m remains a premier choice for the experienced sailor who refuses to sacrifice speed for comfort. It is a purpose-built machine that rewards active trimming and tactical sailing.

Pros

• Exceptional upwind performance for a cruising catamaran.
• High-quality design pedigree from Lock Crowther.
• Lightweight construction allows for high average speeds and light-air agility.

Cons

• Limited interior volume compared to modern production catamarans.
• Daggerboards require more active management and maintenance than fixed keels.
• Extremely sensitive to added weight, requiring disciplined cruising loads.