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Sailboat Specifications

A Class Catamaran

Cat (Rotating Spar) · Catamaran Twin Dbrd.

First built 1962

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LOA 18.00 ft  ·  Beam 7.52 ft  ·  Displacement 165.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 150.00 ft²  ·  Cat (Rotating Spar)  ·  Catamaran Twin Dbrd.
About the A Class Catamaran Sailboat

First launched in 1962, this high-performance catamaran represents one of sailing's most demanding development classes. At 18 feet overall with a 7.52-foot beam, the A Class strikes an ideal balance between manageable size and explosive performance potential, making it a favorite among serious racing enthusiasts and speed-seeking sailors. The twin-hulled design with centerboards delivers exceptional stability and shallow-water capability, while the massive 150 square feet of sail area on a lightweight 165-pound platform creates an impressive sail area-to-displacement ratio of 79.83. This configuration produces thrilling acceleration and top speeds that can exceed 30 knots in favorable conditions. The rotating wing mast system maximizes aerodynamic efficiency, contributing to the boat's reputation as one of the fastest single-handed dinghies on the water. Construction varies from traditional wood to modern fiberglass and composite materials, reflecting decades of technological evolution within the class. These boats excel in coastal waters and protected bays where their speed potential can be fully realized. The A Class demands skilled handling and offers an unforgiving but rewarding sailing experience, attracting competitive sailors who appreciate cutting-edge design and pure performance over comfort or forgiveness.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 18.00 ft / 5.49 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 18.00 ft / 5.49 m
Beam 7.52 ft / 2.29 m
Displacement 165.00 lb / 75 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 150.00 ft² / 13.94 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Catamaran Twin Dbrd.
Rigging Type Cat (rotating spar)
Construction Wood/FG/Composite
First Built 1962
Associations A Class Catamaran (Australia) Site
Related Sailboats Hobie 18 · Prindle 18 · Dart 18 · Prindle 18 2 · Hobie 18 Magnum
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Engine & Accommodations
KSP 2.02
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the A Class Catamaran's sail area to displacement ratio?

The A Class Catamaran has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 79.83. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the A Class Catamaran's comfort ratio?

The A Class Catamaran has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 0.96. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the A Class Catamaran safe for offshore sailing?

The A Class Catamaran has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 5.49. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the A Class Catamaran?

The theoretical hull speed of the A Class Catamaran is 5.69 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a A Class Catamaran weigh?

The A Class Catamaran has a displacement of 165.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 18.00 ft.