Supercat 19 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Sailing the SuperCat 19 is often described by enthusiasts as an exercise in raw power managed by sophisticated hydrodynamics. Unlike many of its 1970s peers that utilized symmetrical or asymmetrical hulls with significant drag, the SuperCat 19 features Roberts' high-aspect ratio rig and deep, narrow hulls that slice through chop rather than bouncing over it. The boat’s performance is bolstered by its impressive righting moment; the SuperCat series was known for having a wider beam than the standard 8-foot or 8.5-foot configurations of the time, providing a more stable platform for the massive sail area.

On the water, the SC-19 is noted for its ability to track exceptionally well upwind, thanks to its high-aspect foils. The boat’s handling is characterized by a "balanced" feel on the helm, a result of the NACA series rudder sections designed to minimize stall during high-speed maneuvers. According to technical insights from Bill Roberts Catamarans, the specific hull geometry allows the boat to maintain high speeds in a wider variety of sea states compared to more traditional "V" hull shapes. The 19 is particularly famous for its "dry" ride relative to other beach cats, as the flared hull sections above the waterline act as a natural spray deflector, while the extra volume in the bows prevents the common nose-diving seen in older designs like the Hobie 16.

Sibling Models & Variations

The SuperCat 19 is part of a closely-knit family of designs that share the same DNA of speed and structural integrity. Its most immediate siblings are the SuperCat 17, a more portable version aimed at the solo or double-handed recreational market, and the SuperCat 20, which served as the flagship for serious distance racing. The SC-20 also spawned a "Tall Rig" variant for light-air environments.

As the design evolved under Aquarius Sail Inc., the 19’s lineage moved toward the ARC series. This included the ARC-21, which introduced more modern carbon fiber components and refined foil shapes, and the ARC-22, which became a dominant force in long-distance catamaran racing. Smaller siblings like the SC-15 and ARC-17 were developed to bring the same parabolic hull benefits to youth and single-handed sailors. All these models utilized the "oversized tube" assembly method, where the crossbeams are significantly larger in diameter than those of competitors, ensuring the hulls remain perfectly parallel and rigid under the high loads of a modern square-top mainsail rig.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a vintage SuperCat 19, the primary focus should be on the structural integrity of the hull-to-beam connections. Due to the massive torque generated by the wide beam and high-aspect rig, the "Big Tube" mounting points can develop stress cracks if the boat has been raced hard or stored improperly.

1. Hull Delamination: Like many boats produced in the 1980s, older SC-19s may exhibit soft spots on the decks or along the hull sides. Prospective buyers should perform a "tap test" with a plastic hammer to listen for the dull thud indicative of core separation.
2. Rudder Casting & Pins: The kick-up rudder system is a complex mechanical assembly. Check for excessive play in the rudder pins and ensure the locking mechanism engages securely; parts for older SuperCats can be sourced via Aquarius Sail, but worn housings can lead to "speed wobbles" at high velocity.
3. Trampoline Tension: The SC-19 relies on a large trampoline for crew movement and structural bracing. Inspect the hiking straps and the attachment tracks on the hulls for corrosion or pulling, as replacing a custom SuperCat trampoline can be a significant expense.
4. Mast Base & Tangs: Because these boats carry significant mast rotation and rig tension, inspect the mast base and the shroud attachment points (tangs) for any signs of metal fatigue or elongated holes.

Community & Resources

The SuperCat 19 benefits from the continued existence of its manufacturer, Aquarius Sail Inc., which remains a vital resource for technical data and replacement parts. The company maintains an active online presence and hosts an owners' forum that serves as a repository for tuning guides and restoration advice. Additionally, the SuperCat fleet has historically been active in multihull organizations such as the United States Sailing Association (US Sailing) and various regional multihull racing associations, where the SuperCat's unique Portsmouth Yardstick rating remains a point of technical discussion among handicap racers.

The Verdict

The SuperCat 19 is a "pilot's boat"—a high-performance machine that rewards technical skill and offers speeds that still rival modern carbon fiber designs. While its size and power can be intimidating for novices, it remains one of the most stable and seaworthy beach catamarans ever produced.

Pros:

• Exceptional Speed: Capable of outrunning almost any contemporary monohull and most modern beach cats in its size class.
• Anti-Pitchpole Design: The parabolic hulls provide a safety margin in heavy air that revolutionized catamaran safety.
• Build Quality: Aquarius Sail’s commitment to heavy-duty extrusions and quality glass work has led to high longevity for well-maintained hulls.

Cons:

• Complexity: The high-aspect rig and wide beam require more effort to setup and trailer than smaller, simpler cats.
• Physicality: Managing the sail area in high winds requires a fit and experienced crew.
• Weight: It is heavier than some modern ultra-light racing cats, making it more difficult to manhandle on the beach without dedicated rollers.