Sailing Performance & Handling
The defining characteristic of the Supercat 17’s handling is its "anti-pitchpole" design philosophy. Bill Roberts engineered the hulls with a specific buoyancy distribution that prevents the bows from burying when reaching at high speeds—a common and often dangerous trait in older beach cat designs like the Hobie 16. The boat features an elliptical hull cross-section and lacks daggerboards, relying instead on the deep V-shape of the hulls to provide lateral resistance. This "boardless" design simplifies launching and beaching significantly, making it a favorite for coastal sailors who frequent shallow waters.
On the water, the Supercat 17 is known for its exceptional tracking and responsiveness. Much of this is attributed to the oversized, high-aspect rudders, which remain effective even when the boat is significantly heeled. According to technical documentation from Aquarius Sail Inc., the evolution of this model (the ARC-17) further refined the rudder positioning to optimize helm neutralness. Owners often report that the boat feels "stiff" and "balanced," thanks to the oversized aluminum crossbeams that minimize hull torsion. The sail plan is generous, typically featuring a large fully-battened mainsail and a jib, which allows the 17 to plane in relatively light air compared to heavier production cats.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Supercat 17 and its larger siblings gained considerable notoriety within the "distance racing" catamaran community. Bill Roberts’ designs were frequent competitors in grueling events like the Great Florida Bank-to-Bank and various coastal raids. While the 20-foot variant often took the headlines for outright speed records, the 17-foot model established a reputation as the "giant killer" in handicap racing. The design's legacy is preserved today through the ARC-17, which remains a benchmark for one-design performance under the Aquarius Sail umbrella.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
When inspecting a vintage Supercat 17, particularly those produced during the Erickson Yachts or Boston Whaler production runs in the early 1980s, several technical areas require scrutiny:
- Mast Step and Base: The downward pressure of the rig can cause spider-cracking or compression around the mast step on the forward crossbeam. Ensure the beam is straight and the hardware is securely riveted.
- Rudder Housing and Pins: Because the Supercat relies heavily on its rudders for lateral stability (given the lack of boards), the rudder kick-up mechanism and the gudgeons are high-stress points. Check for "slop" in the pins or cracks in the cast aluminum housings.
- Trampoline Tracks: The Supercat uses a specific track system to tension the trampoline. Over decades of use, these tracks can pull away from the hull or become corroded, especially on boats kept in saltwater environments.
- Hull Delamination: While Aquarius Sail is known for robust construction, older units should be checked for "soft spots" on the decks just forward of the crossbeams, where crew weight is most frequently concentrated during maneuvers.
- Beam Bolts: The integrity of the catamaran depends on the connection between the hulls and the aluminum beams. Inspect the stainless steel bolts for signs of crevice corrosion or "egging" out of the mounting holes.
Community & Resources
The primary resource for Supercat 17 owners is Aquarius Sail Inc., which continues to provide technical support and parts for the legacy Supercat fleet. The builder maintains an active presence in Wyoming, Minnesota, and offers a dedicated forum for owners of ARC and Supercat products. Additionally, the technical legacy of the Supercat 17 is often discussed within the catamaran racing circuits of the Midwest and the Florida coast, where many of these vessels are still campaigned in Portsmouth-rated fleet racing.
The Verdict
The Supercat 17 is a masterclass in hull efficiency, offering a high-performance experience without the mechanical complexity of daggerboards. It remains a top choice for sailors who want the speed of a racing catamaran with the beach-friendly utility of a recreational boat.
Pros:
- Pitchpole Resistance: High-buoyancy bows make it much safer in high winds than traditional beach cats.
- Boardless Design: The lack of daggerboards makes it ideal for shallow water and simplifies beaching.
- High Build Quality: Aquarius-built models are known for longevity and structural rigidity.
- Solo-Friendly: While designed for two, the 17 can be handled by an experienced solo sailor.
Cons:
- Niche Parts: Some hardware is specific to the Supercat/ARC line and may require ordering directly from the manufacturer.
- Learning Curve: The high-aspect rig and responsiveness require more finesse than entry-level cats.
- Weight: It is heavier than some modern carbon-fiber equivalents, making it slightly more difficult to manhandle on a beach without a trailer.
