TomCat 9.7 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The TomCat 9.7 is lauded for its "level ride" and its ability to maintain high average speeds without the stressful heel of a monohull. In an editorial review by Canadian Yachting, the boat was noted for its surprising agility, owing largely to its lightweight construction and efficient hull form. Unlike many cruising catamarans that utilize fixed keels, the 9.7 is typically equipped with retractable daggerboards. This feature allows the boat to point significantly higher into the wind—often within 35 to 40 degrees of apparent wind—while also reducing drag and allowing for a draft of just 16 inches when the boards are raised.

With a Displacement-to-Length ratio that leans toward the lighter side of the cruising spectrum, the 9.7 feels responsive in light air but remains composed when the breeze freshens. According to technical assessments found in Sail Magazine, the boat’s sail plan is designed for manageability; the use of a large mainsail and a smaller, self-tacking jib (on many models) simplifies tacking maneuvers. The twin-outboard engine configuration—usually 20hp units mounted in wells—provides exceptional low-speed maneuverability, allowing the boat to turn within its own length, a critical advantage in tight marinas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its performance-oriented hull, the interior of the TomCat 9.7 is surprisingly voluminous. The "bridge-deck-up" layout places the galley, dinette, and navigation station on the same level as the cockpit, creating a seamless social space. This design, often referred to as "one-level living," is a hallmark of the model and is discussed in detail in the TomCat Boats manufacturer literature. The hulls contain the sleeping quarters, typically configured with two queen-sized berths in the forward sections and a head or storage in the aft sections.

Headroom is a standout feature for a 32-foot boat, reaching 6'4" in the hulls and nearly 6' in the main salon. The use of foam-core construction provides more than just structural strength; it offers superior thermal and acoustic insulation compared to solid fiberglass, resulting in a drier and quieter cabin environment. Sibling variations, such as the 9.70 S, often featured upgraded cabinetry and revised window placements to improve natural ventilation and light, addressing feedback from early hull owners who sought a more "open" feel in the saloon.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a TomCat 9.7 should conduct a rigorous inspection of specific technical areas common to this build style:

• Daggerboard Trunks: Because the 9.7 relies on daggerboards for upwind performance, the trunks are high-stress areas. Inspect for stress cracks or evidence of impact damage at the bottom of the trunks, which can lead to slow leaks.
• Outboard Well Ventilation: The engines are housed in wells rather than on the transom. Ensure that the ventilation systems and exhaust seals are intact to prevent carbon monoxide buildup in the cockpit or "starving" the engines of oxygen during long motoring sessions.
• Deck Hardware Bedding: Like many foam-cored boats, any deck penetration (cleats, stanchions, tracks) must be properly sealed. Check for soft spots around high-load hardware, as moisture ingress into the foam core can lead to delamination if left unchecked.
• Rudder Bearings: Owners have occasionally noted play in the rudder stock on older hulls. Testing the steering for "slop" while the boat is hauled out is essential to determine if the bearings require replacement.

Community & Resources

The TomCat 9.7 benefits from a dedicated and technically proficient owner community. The most prominent resource for technical support and cruising logs is the TomCat 9.7 Owners Group, which migrated from older forum platforms to maintain a database of DIY repairs, sail reefing schedules, and modification ideas. Additionally, the manufacturer, TomCat Boats, maintains an active presence in Ontario and is known for providing historical technical data and parts guidance to second-hand owners.

The Verdict

The TomCat 9.7 is an exemplary choice for the sailor who refuses to sacrifice sailing sensation for living space. It is a "sailor’s catamaran" that rewards attentive trimming while remaining forgiving enough for a family cruise.

Pros:

• Exceptional shallow-draft capability with daggerboards raised.
• Lightweight foam-core construction provides superior insulation and buoyancy.
• One-level living layout makes the interior feel much larger than 32 feet.
• Twin outboard configuration simplifies maintenance and improves docking precision.

Cons:

• Outboard engines in wells can be noisier than inboard diesels.
• The narrow hull beam limits payload capacity compared to wider, heavier cruising cats.
• Availability is limited on the used market due to relatively low production numbers.