Steeped in New England maritime tradition, this classic catboat design has been introducing sailors to the joys of sailing for nearly a century. Originally developed in the 1920s by the Beetle Boat Company in New Bedford, Massachusetts, the Beetle Cat represents one of America's most enduring small sailboat designs. Built with simplicity and safety in mind, these sturdy little boats feature the traditional catboat configuration with a single gaff-rigged sail and centerboard design. The wide, stable beam and shallow draft make them ideal for protected waters, harbors, and coastal sailing in moderate conditions. Their forgiving nature and straightforward rigging have made them a popular choice for sailing schools, yacht clubs, and families seeking a reliable boat for learning and recreational sailing. The Beetle Cat's reputation for durability is legendary among New England sailors. These boats are known for their solid fiberglass construction and ability to withstand decades of hard use. While not designed for racing or offshore adventures, they excel at day sailing, teaching sailing fundamentals, and providing a authentic taste of traditional American sailing heritage in coastal waters.
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What is the Beetle Cat's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Beetle Cat has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 38.19. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Beetle Cat's comfort ratio?
The Beetle Cat has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 5.29. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Beetle Cat safe for offshore sailing?
The Beetle Cat has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 3.18. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Beetle Cat?
The theoretical hull speed of the Beetle Cat is 4.58 knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Beetle Cat weigh?
The Beetle Cat has a displacement of 450.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 12.33 ft.
How much does a used Beetle Cat cost?
Based on 2 recent market listings, used Beetle Cat sailboats typically sell for between $4,500 and $7,000, with a median asking price of $5,750. Price varies significantly based on year, condition, location, and included equipment.
Who designed the Beetle Cat?
The Beetle Cat was designed by John Beetle, first built in 1921.