Thom Cat 23 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Thom Cat 23 are defined by its massive sail area and high initial stability. Like most traditional catboats, the 23 carries a gaff rig that provides significant power in light air. Because the mast is stepped far forward at the bow, the boat creates a large amount of torque; owners frequently report that the boat "tracks like a freight train" once settled on a reach.

Handling a Thom Cat 23 requires a nuanced understanding of weather helm. According to technical discussions supported by the Catboat Association, a properly trimmed gaff-rigged boat should carry a slight pull on the tiller, but if the boat is over-canvased, that pull can become strenuous. The Thom Cat 23 is designed to be sailed "on her lines," meaning that reefing early is essential to maintain control and speed. The boat’s shallow draft—enabled by a heavy steel centerboard—allows it to navigate thin waters that would be inaccessible to most cruisers of this size. When the board is down, it provides the necessary lift to windward, though, like all catboats, it will not point as high as a modern sloop.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Thom Cat 23 is surprisingly cavernous, a direct result of the design's 12:5 length-to-beam ratio. Thompson Boatworks maintained the traditional Menger layout, which typically features a large V-berth forward that can be converted into a massive double bed. The wide cabin sole, often finished in teak and holly, provides enough floor space for a small folding table.

The "Cruiser" variant of the 23-foot hull is equipped with a functional galley, usually featuring a two-burner stove, a stainless steel sink, and an insulated icebox. One of the most significant advantages of the 23 over the 19-foot model is the inclusion of a dedicated, enclosed head compartment, a rare luxury in a boat under 25 feet. Storage is abundant, with lockers tucked behind the settee cushions and shelving running the length of the hull. The use of white gelcoat surfaces paired with heavy teak trim creates a bright yet traditional "salty" atmosphere. While the Thom Cat 15 and 19 are largely open or "cabin-ette" styles, the 23 is a true live-aboard for a couple.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Thom Cat 23 should focus on the mechanical and structural elements unique to gaff-rigged centerboarders. While the fiberglass work from Thompson Boatworks is generally regarded as heavy and durable, specific areas require scrutiny:

• Centerboard Pendant and Trunk: The centerboard is a heavy piece of hardware. The wire or line used to raise it (the pendant) is subject to chafe and corrosion. Inspect the attachment point and the trunk itself for signs of leaks or structural stress where the board may have been grounded hard.
• Gaff Rig Hardware: Examine the gaff jaws and the leathering around the mast. High friction in these areas can lead to wood rot on the spars (if wooden) or unsightly gouging on the mast if the protection has worn through.
• Weather Helm Management: Ensure the rudder and its pintles are robust. Because catboats place significant strain on the rudder when the wind picks up, any play in the steering system will be magnified and can lead to hardware failure.
• Inboard Engine Access: Most Thom Cat 23s are equipped with small diesel inboards (often Westerbeke or Yanmar). Given the boat's shape, engine access can be tight; check for salt crystallization around the heat exchanger and signs of neglected oil changes.

Community & Resources

The Thom Cat 23 benefits from one of the most dedicated niche communities in American sailing. The primary resource for technical data, restoration advice, and social gatherings is the Catboat Association, which hosts an annual meeting and maintains a registry of Menger and Thompson-built hulls. Because Thompson Boatworks operated as a small-scale, high-touch builder in West Sayville, many boats have documented histories within the Long Island traditional sailing community.

The Verdict

The Thom Cat 23 is a "big" small boat that offers a timeless aesthetic and immense stability. It is an ideal vessel for the sailor who prizes character and cockpit space over upwind pointing angles.

Pros:

• Incredible Volume: More interior and cockpit space than almost any boat in the 23-foot class.
• Shallow Draft: The centerboard design is perfect for exploring bays, creeks, and tidal flats.
• Ease of Rigging: A single sail means fewer lines to manage, though the gaff rig requires a specific technique to master.

Cons:

• Weather Helm: Can be physically demanding to steer in heavy air if not reefed properly.
• Upwind Limits: Will not compete with modern fin-keel sloops when sailing close-hauled.
• Niche Market: The traditional gaff rig and broad beam mean it requires a specific type of buyer for resale.