Wave Rider Catamaran Information, Review, Specs

With a reported weight of approximately 180 lbs (82 kg), the Wave Rider Catamaran emphasized ease of transport and assembly. Its hull design featured twin symmetrical pontoons that provided the lateral stability characteristic of multihulls, while the open-deck configuration allowed for an ergonomic sitting position—a distinct departure from the "trapeze-and-trampoline" requirement of performance beach cats. Although production was limited and the "Wave" brand has since been eclipsed by larger manufacturers, the Rider remains a point of interest for collectors of retro multihulls.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Wave Rider Catamaran are defined by its lightweight construction and sailboard-style rigging. According to period reviews found in Popular Mechanics (July 1982), the boat was designed to be "rigged like a sailboard," suggesting a simple, unstayed mast and a sleeved or wishbone-style sail. This setup provides a high degree of responsiveness in light air, as the lack of heavy standing rigging allows the boat to accelerate quickly.

On the water, the Rider feels more like a stable windsurfer than a traditional yacht. Its tracking is facilitated by its twin-hull configuration, which minimizes heeling and allows the boat to remain flat even when pressed. However, because it lacks the deep daggers or high-aspect rudders of a performance catamaran, it is primarily a reaching and downwind boat. Performance in heavy chop is limited by its low freeboard; as a "wave rider," it is prone to taking spray over the bows, making for a wet but exhilarating ride. The ability to switch to a seated paddling mode makes it exceptionally "sea-kindly" for novices who might otherwise be stranded when the wind drops below five knots.

Popular Mentions & Media

The most significant media footprint for this specific model is its inclusion in the "Versatile New Craft" section of the July 1982 issue of Popular Mechanics. The magazine highlighted the Rider as a solution for sailors who wanted to avoid the complexity of larger trailers, noting that it could be "sailed or paddled sitting." While it did not achieve the global cultural icon status of the Hobie Wave (a later and larger rotomolded successor), the Rider is often cited in technical databases like Mauripro Sailing as a reference point for early portable multihull specifications.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a vintage Wave Rider Catamaran should focus their inspection on the materials typical of 1980s small-craft construction.

• Hull Seam Integrity: As an early catamaran, the deck-to-hull joints are a common failure point. Check for hairline cracks or signs of separation along the gunwales, which can lead to water ingress into the hulls.
• Mast Step Stress: Because the rig is often unstayed (similar to a Laser or a sailboard), the mast step bears the entirety of the levered load. Inspect the bottom of the mast tube for "spiderweb" stress fractures in the fiberglass.
• UV Degradation: Many of these boats were stored outdoors on beaches or racks. Check for a "chalky" finish on the hulls, which indicates the gelcoat has been depleted, potentially weakening the underlying laminate.
• Rigging Compatibility: Since the original "sailboard style" sails and spars are no longer in production, ensure the boat comes with all its original hardware. Finding a replacement mast or a sail with the correct sleeve dimensions can be difficult without resorting to custom sailmaking.

The Verdict

The Wave Rider Catamaran is a charming relic of a time when marine designers were obsessed with modularity and portability. It serves as an excellent "cottage boat" for those who want a low-stakes introduction to multihull sailing.

Pros

• Portability: At 180 lbs, it is one of the few catamarans that can be moved by two people without a specialized trailer.
• Versatility: The ability to paddle comfortably makes it more functional than a standard dinghy in variable wind.
• Stability: The catamaran platform offers a much safer learning environment for children than a tippy monohull.

Cons

• Obsolescence: Finding original parts or sails is a significant challenge.
• Performance Ceiling: It is not a racing machine and will be easily outpaced by any modern 14-foot catamaran.
• Wet Ride: The low-profile deck ensures the crew will be soaked in anything over 10 knots of wind.