Great Lakes Catboat

Designed by Rolf Van Der Sleen and built by Custom Yachts of Hamilton in Canada, this compact catboat represents a thoughtful adaptation of the traditional catboat concept for inland waters. With only twelve hulls produced beginning in 1981, the Great Lakes Catboat remains a rare sight on the water, making it an intriguing find for sailors seeking something distinctive. The boat's defining characteristic is its unstayed cat rig, which eliminates the complexity of standing rigging while providing straightforward sailing dynamics. At just over 1,200 pounds displacement with a swing keel configuration, this design prioritizes shallow-water exploration and easy launching—ideal traits for the variable conditions found throughout the Great Lakes region. The generous beam relative to length creates a stable platform, while the retractable keel system allows access to shoal waters and simplified trailering. Best suited for coastal cruising, day sailing, and exploring protected waters, this catboat offers the classic simplicity that made the type famous along New England shores. The fiberglass construction ensures durability, while the comfortable proportions make it an appealing choice for sailors who appreciate traditional aesthetics combined with practical modern materials. Its rarity adds collector appeal for enthusiasts of distinctive sailing craft.

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