Sun Cat 17-1 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Sun Cat 17-1 is defined by its gaff rig and the proprietary Mastendr™ Quick Rig Sailing System. As noted in Sail Magazine, the Mastendr system allows the mast to be raised and lowered in seconds without removing the rigging, making it one of the most efficient trailer-sailers for single-handed deployment. Under sail, the boat exhibits high initial stability due to its wide beam and 300 pounds of ballast (with 200 lbs in the stub keel and an 80 lb stainless steel centerboard).

With a sail area of approximately 150 square feet on a displacement of 1,500 pounds, the Sun Cat is not a light-air speedster. Editorial reviews in Good Old Boat suggest the boat requires a bit of breeze to overcome its displacement but remains predictable and "stiff" as the wind increases. Handling is characterized by a "heavy" feel typical of catboats; the large barn-door rudder provides significant authority, though it can become heavy on the helm if the boat is over-canvassed. Its pointing ability is modest compared to a modern sloop, but it excels at reaching and running, where the gaff rig’s power is most effective.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its small footprint, the Sun Cat 17-1 provides a functional "cuddy" cabin that makes weekend gunkholing viable. The interior layout typically consists of two 6-foot 5-inch settee berths and a dedicated space for a porta-potti under the bridge deck. Storage is tucked beneath the berths and in a small chain locker forward. Natural light is provided by the model’s distinctive "sassy" elliptical portlights.

The Sun Cat hull served as the foundation for several sibling models. The Sunday Cat is a notable variation that trades cabin volume for an elongated cockpit, featuring a smaller "cuddy" primarily for gear and a head, while the Sun Cat Daysailer omits the cabin entirely in favor of maximum seating. For those seeking more room, the Horizon Cat (20 feet) offers a similar aesthetic but with wheel steering and an inboard diesel option.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Sun Cat's cultural footprint is largely tied to its designer, Clark Mills, whose induction into the National Sailing Hall of Fame in 2017 cemented the legacy of his designs. The boat is a frequent subject of "small craft" enthusiast media and has been featured extensively in Small Craft Advisor and Good Old Boat magazine as a premier example of a modern-traditional pocket cruiser. It is also a staple of the "YouTube voyaging" community among trailer-sailers who document coastal explorations in "skinny water" locations like the Florida Keys and the Chesapeake Bay.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners should focus their inspections on the unique mechanical aspects of the catboat rig and centerboard:

• Mast Hinge Track: On the Mastendr system, the aluminum mast track near the hinge can spread if the sail slugs are not properly cleared before folding. This leads to slugs jamming or popping out during hoisting.
• Centerboard Trunk Leaks: A known issue reported on owner forums involves the joint where the stainless steel centerboard trunk meets the fiberglass hull. Water can seep into the bilge if the sealant or gasket at the pivot bolt has degraded.
• Rudder Head Tension: The high-aspect kick-up rudder uses a friction-based or pinned system. Owners should check the aluminum rudder head for hairline cracks or rounding of the pin holes, which can cause "slop" in the steering.
• Gallows Alignment: Ensure the teak and stainless steel boom gallows is secure; it is a structural necessity for the Mastendr system to function correctly during the lowering process.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support and owner camaraderie is the Com-Pac Yacht Owners Association (CPYOA), which maintains an extensive technical wiki and forum specifically for the Sun Cat and Sunday Cat models. Additionally, the Catboat Association provides a broader historical context and resources for gaff-rig tuning and maintenance.

The Verdict

The Sun Cat 17-1 is a "non-intimidating" cruiser perfect for sailors transitioning from larger yachts to simpler, trailer-based operations.

Pros:

• Rapid Rigging: The Mastendr system is arguably the best in its class for trailer-to-water speed.
• Shallow Draft: Can sail in less than 1.5 feet of water, opening up remote anchorages.
• Exceptional Stability: The wide beam makes it feel like a much larger boat underfoot.

Cons:

• Upwind Limits: Like most catboats, it does not point as high as a sloop.
• Weight: At 1,500 lbs (plus trailer), it requires a vehicle with a decent towing capacity (2,500 lbs+ recommended).
• Light Air: Can be sluggish in winds under 5–7 knots.