rs 16 catamaran review

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Description.

The Cat 16 represents all the clever RS thinking, into two hulls. Through beam mountings, single or double trapeze.

The RS Cat 16 is high performance cat sailing - with the benefits of zero maintenance, modern polyethylene hull construction. It’s not a small boat, yet the Cat 16 punches above its weight in features and design. From the dreadnaught bow design, to the ingeniously strong Hull+Beam attachments... the Cat 16 is a lot more than it looks. Featuring multiple sail options, single or double trapeze, the Cat 16 can be singlehanded up to medium breezes, and can blast around with friend or family in everything else. The Cat 16 is a wide and stable, but fast, beach cat for use in recreation or training environments year after year.

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You can also reach us at [email protected] or by calling 503-285-5536 ext2

Two Models Available

• RS CAT16 S: Main and Jib
• RS CAT16 XL: Main, Jib, and Gennaker

Sail Singlehanded or with Crew

• Exciting for a single-handed adult
• Space for the family
• Blast across the bay and then picnic on a beach

High Performance and Easy Handling

• Designed by innovative multihull expert Jo Richards
• Easy handling with stable, buoyant hulls
• Practical features make life easy for novices through experienced sailors
• Concave deck creates secure sitting area
• Lift & Lock rudder system

Convenient Storage and Transportation

• Practical moulded-in handholds make moving the boat easy on shore

Highly Durable with Low Maintenance

• Hull & Beam attachment system is stronger, with no holes through the skin of the boat. No weak points and no leaks.
• Beam and shroud bolts secure into stainless steel bars in channels on either side of the hulls
• RS Comptec PE3 construction - the industries most advantaged three layer rotomolding
• Durable UV stabilized outer skin, middle foam layer for stiffness, strong inner skin
• RS manufacturing enables additional thickness in high load areas
• Built in buoyancy from thick foam layer
• Strongest fittings attachment - including a through-bolted rudder attachment
• Basically maintenance free

Safety Features

• Toe straps above and below tramps to assist capsize righting
• Capsize righting line in under-tramp stowage bag
• Knife stowage under tramp

Specifications

• Construction: 3 Layer Comptec PE3 Hull
• Length: 15'6" (4.7m)
• Beam: 7'9" (2.35m)
• Hull Weight (each): 95lb (42kg)
• Sailing Weight: 308lb (140kg)
• Capacity: 1-3

Why West Coast Sailing

We represent a dozen sailboat brands from all around the world. Our dinghy sailboat inventory is second to none, with at least 100 boats in stock in our warehouse at any time. Our staff has extensive experience sailing, racing, rigging, coaching and delivering boats worldwide. This is what we do:

• Selection – 70+ models of boats from manufacturers around the world.
• Service – Our staff is focused on helping you Own The Water.
• Experience – The team here has decades of experience on all types of dinghies.
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Returns Info: Your 100% satisfaction is our goal - we want you to love your sailing gear, but if something doesn't work out, we accept returns on most new, unused items*. Returns can be made within 366 days (1 year + 1 day) of your original order date. Exceptions include (and are not limited to) cut line, Rig Shop products, special order items, numbered sailors, and items used or worn sailing.

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Related Products

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RS CAT16 Twin Trapeze Kit

RS CAT16 Spin Halyard Swivel Cleat

RS CAT16 Shroud Bolt Backup Bar (M10)

RS Gudgeon Backing Plate Mk2

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RS Cat 16 S

Sailboat specifications.

• Last update: 15th March 2020

RS Cat 16's main features

Rs cat 16's main dimensions, rs cat 16's rig and sails, rs cat 16's performances, rs cat 16's auxiliary engine, rs cat 16's accommodations and layout.

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• Sailboat Guide

RS Cat 16 is a 15 ′ 5 ″ / 4.7 m catamaran sailboat designed by Jo Richards/RS Sailing and built by RS Sailing starting in 2014.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

Available in ‘Club’, S, XL, and Race trims. XL version has single trapeze. Race version has 2. Mainsail - Dacron 107.5 sq ft (9.9 sq m) Mainsail - Mylar (Race version) 113 sq ft (10.5 sq m) Jib - Dacron 25.3 sq ft (2.3 m sq) Jib - Mylar 25.3 sq ft (2.35 sq m) Gennaker 138 sq ft (12.8 m sq)

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What makes RS CAT design so unique?

By George Purchon our RS Catamaran Pro.

The RS CAT range is a perfect option not only for training and recreational sailing but also as a true performance pathway class.

The features of the RS CAT14 & the RS CAT16 are innovative and clever to make Catamaran sailing fun and easy. The high buoyancy hulls give reserve stability and forgiving handling, while the concave deck creates secure sitting area which is very comfortable. Once you are ready to get sailing the lift & lock rudder system is simple to use and makes it easy to launch single-handed.

Once you are out on the water having the option for one, two or three sails can suit your experience level and the gennaker chute system is efficient and simple when hoisting & dropping the kite. If you would like to land on a beach then the practical moulded-in handholds make moving the boat easy onshore. The hull construction is made in such a way that no fittings go into the inside of the hull making it extremely strong, watertight and quick to assemble. Beam and shroud bolts secure into stainless-steel bars in channels on either side of the hulls resulting in a strong, simple and fast assembly.

The RS build process leads the way & enables additional thickness in high load areas, this makes the RS CAT range virtually maintenance-free while also keeping the overall weight down for better sailing. One thing that catamarans can fall into a trap of is flexion in the hulls, once one hull is flying there can be some play in the beams. The RS CAT range has addressed this with an unyielding front tack bar where the increased stiffness of the overall boat is very noticeable.

The safety features on the boats are also ingenious, toe straps above and below tramps to assist capsize righting, capsize righting line in under-tramp stowage bag and a masthead float standard on all models are just a few of the features. However, something as simple as a recess in the aft deck to reduce the volume, making it easier to “sink” a stern and right the boat from inversion is a simple and effective way to get you sailing more and loving the awesome performance that the RS CAT14 and RS CAT16 gives.

To learn more about the features please check out the RS CAT pages and don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team.

Check out the RS CAT14’s racing with the fastest sailing race in the world at SailGP!

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Hobie 16 vs RS 16  

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With wave-piercing bows that look like they’re fresh off of an America’s Cup catamaran and a powerful square-topped mainsail, the RS CAT16 S and her turbocharged big sister, the RS CAT16 XL, stand ready to provide high-speed thrills when the wind is blowing dogs off chains while still allowing you to glide efficiently in the light, cerebral stuff.

Both versions of the RS CAT16 feature identical sets of sturdy, three-layer rotomolded-polyethylene hulls that—along with their crossbeams—were cleverly designed to be bolted together using just eight bolts, one wrench and (ballpark) 15 minutes of your time, simplifying transportation and storage.

FREE SHIPPING POLICY

Free shipping on all orders over $99. Does not apply to over-sized items or Hobie items. We consider over-sized items to be any sailboats, kayaks, paddle-boards, and anything over 40" in length. Learn more about our shipping policy by clicking here .

16-foot catamarans : Beach cats in a comparison test

Andreas Fritsch

 ·  07.07.2014

Three boats similar in concept were available for the test: the Dart 16, Topper 16 and the brand new RS 16 Cat - still manageable in size, which means they can be trailered when built up and are still suitable for adult two-man crews. The trio from England is manufactured using the modern and very affordable roto-moulded process, which makes the boats around 30 to 40 percent cheaper than comparable GRP cats. The reason for this is simple: the hulls are filled into moulds as granulate, which are then "baked" in a rotating oven. This thermoplastic construction process shortens the construction time of the hulls to around two hours, as opposed to around 40 hours for traditional laminate construction. The resulting hulls are extremely robust and can easily withstand heavy mechanical stresses such as quaking or unsuccessful docking.

Sparkling performance gives this modern beach and training catamaran the feel of a higher performance boat, yet it could hardly be easier to handle. Start with the main and jib – use the gennaker and trapeze to turbo charge the performance when you’re ready. The RS CAT16 has stability and space so you can enjoy the excitement alone or with family and friends. A new design protected system for joining the beams to the hulls gives increased stiffness compared to other rotomoulded polyethylene catamarans, with the added bonus of allowing the boat to be disassembled quickly for storage or transport. Durability : Convenience : Fun –  the hallmarks of the RS CAT16.

Sparkling performance with easy handling

• Easy handling and fantastic performance
• Practical features for novices and experienced sailors
• Concave deck creates secure sitting area
• Lift & lock – simple & secure rudder system
• Designed by innovative multihull expert Jo Richards and the RS development team

Singlehanded or family crew

• Exciting single-handed – plenty of space for the family
• Blast across the bay – picnic on the beach
• More fun – more exciting adventures

Storage and transport convenience

• Fast assembly & separation allows storage in restricted space
• Quick to rig – simple and robust
• Practical moulded-in handholds make moving the boat easy on shore

Greatest durability – lowest maintenance

• NEW – Hull & beam securing system without holes through the skin of the boat – no sealant required
• Beam and shroud bolts secure into stainless-steel bars in channels on either side of the hulls
• Exceptionally strong, simple and fast assembly – just 15 minutes using only one spanner
• RS Comptec PE3 construction– state of the art three layer rotomoulding system
• Toughest outer skin – middle foam layer for stiffness – strong inner skin
• RS process leads the way & enables additional thickness in high load areas
• Reduced overall weight for better sailing – every RS offers the best performance and most rewarding handling
• Built in buoyancy from thick foam layer
• Strongest fittings attachment – through-bolted rudder systems
• Virtually maintenance free

Safety features

• Toe straps above and below tramps to assist capsize righting
• Capsize righting line in under-tramp stowage bag
• Knife stowage under tramp
• Recesses in aft decks reduce volume and make it easier to “sink” a stern and right the boat from inversion
• Mast head float standard on all models

This product is not sold online. Contact us for a quote.

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Sparkling performance gives this modern beach and training catamaran the feel of a higher performance boat, yet it could hardly be easier to handle. Start with the main and jib – use the gennaker and trapeze to turbo charge the performance when you’re ready. The RS CAT16 has stability and space so you can enjoy the excitement alone or with family and friends. A new design protected system for joining the beams to the hulls gives increased stiffness compared to other rotomoulded polyethylene catamarans, with the added bonus of allowing the boat to be disassembled quickly for storage or transport. Durability, convenience and fun – the hallmarks of the RS CAT16

Fulll details in the Product Description below.

The RS CAT16 is available in a couple of setup options, please go to the official site www.rssailing.com to see the full range of options. We are here to help too, feel free to get in touch and we can help with pricing and details, please call +852 2827 5876 or use our contact page .

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• Description

RS CAT16 Features

Sparkling performance with easy handling.

• Easy handling and fantastic performance
• Practical features for novices and experienced sailors
• Concave deck creates secure sitting area
• Lift & lock – simple & secure rudder system
• Designed by innovative multihull expert Jo Richards and the RS development team

Singlehanded or family crew

• Exciting single-handed – plenty of space for the family
• Blast across the bay – picnic on the beach
• More fun – more exciting adventures

Storage and transport convenience

• Fast assembly & separation allows storage in restricted space
• Quick to rig – simple and robust
• Practical moulded-in handholds make moving the boat easy on shore

Greatest durability – lowest maintenance

• NEW – Hull & beam securing system without holes through the skin of the boat – no sealant required
• Beam and shroud bolts secure into stainless-steel bars in channels on either side of the hulls
• Exceptionally strong, simple and fast assembly – just 15 minutes using only one spanner
• RS Comptec PE3 construction– state of the art three layer rotomoulding system
• Toughest outer skin – middle foam layer for stiffness – strong inner skin
• RS process leads the way & enables additional thickness in high load areas
• Reduced overall weight for better sailing – every RS offers the best performance and most rewarding handling
• Built in buoyancy from thick foam layer
• Strongest fittings attachment – through-bolted rudder systems
• Virtually maintenance free

Safety features

• Toe straps above and below tramps to assist capsize righting
• Capsize righting line in under-tramp stowage bag
• Knife stowage under tramp
• Recesses in aft decks reduce volume and make it easier to “sink” a stern and right the boat from inversion
• Mast head float standard on all models
• Mainsail only – simple set-up
• Single trapeze

RS CAT16 XL

• Single Trapeze

The RS CAT16 is available in a couple of setup options, please go to the official site www.rssailing.com to see the full range of options. We are also here to help too, feel free to get in touch and we can help with pricing and details, please call +852 2827 5876 or use our contact page .

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The RS Cat 16 combines the durability of rotomolded construction with the technical developments seen in more high performance catamarans. With a range of available rigging options to suit everything from beginner sailors to seasoned veterans, the RS Cat 16 is about as versatile as it gets. The boat can be completely broken down for easy transporting or storage in just minutes, and the hull shapes have been carefully designed to add strength and performance without adding weight.

• Easy to sail single-handed with space for the entire family
• Exceptional stability and comfort without sacrificing performance
• Concave decks create secure sitting area
• Hiking straps above and below tramp to assist in capsize recovery
• Capsize righting line in under-tramp stowage bag
• Recesses in aft decks reduce volume making it easier to right
• Lift and lock rudder system
• Molded handholds for easy carrying on shore
• Fast and easy assembly makes for convenient storage or transport

CONSTRUCTION

• Extremely durable RS Comptec PE3 - 3 layer polyethlyne construction 
• Middle foam layer creates built-in buoyancy
• Hull & Beam securing system with no through-hull holes for easy assembly - no sealant required
• Stainless backed shroud and beam bolts
• RS construction process adds material only in high load areas, reducing weight for better sailing performance
• Rudder system through-bolted for added strength

*Boat price doesn't include freight from Zim Sailing to Customer

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Dynamic RS Cat Sailboat Dolly

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designed for coaching, marshalling, and rescue

The rs cat16 coaching launch.

• Royal Henley Regatta
• Masters Nationals, Grand Rapids MI
• US Rowing Nationals, Cincinnati OH
• Scholastic National Regatta, Nashport OH
• 2016 World Cup, Lucerne
• 2023 Pan Am Games, Santiago Chile
• Masters Nationals 2023, Indianapolis

Coaching, Marshalling, Rescue

• The CAT16 is designed for coaching, marshalling and rescue. Holds up to four people, rescues an 8+.
• Durable, Maneuverable, Affordable, Reliable
• Rotomolded, tri-lamination, polyethylene, motorized catamaran

The world’s first rotomolded, tri-lamination, polyethylene, motorized catamaran

• Hull length 15.5’
• Beam – max 6.4’
• Max draft 12’
• Beam between hulls 5.4’
• Aluminum deck 5’x8.2’
• Height 6.2’
• Length 15.5’
• Without engine: 440lbs
• Heaviest allowable motor: 121lbs
• Baggage, outboard: 341lbs
• Max Load: 992lbs
• Weight fully laden: 1455lbs

Available with or without:

See the cat16 In action

FAQs about the cat 16

How much wake do the catamarans produce.

The catamarans have been specifically designed to produce minimal wash. 

How long will the fuel tanks last?

The RS CAT16 9.9hp 4-stroke with 12-litre fuel tank will last between 120 and 160 km.

The RS CAT16 15hp-20hp 4-stroke with 12-litre fuel tank will last between 100 and 140km.

What is the top speed of each engine?

The RS CAT16 with 9.9hp top speed is 28kph

RS CAT16 with 15Hp top speed is 32kph

How many people will the catamarans carry?

The RS CAT16 with 15hp is designed to carry 4 persons. However, because it has a buoyancy capacity of 650kg, it will carry significantly more for emergency rescue purposes only.

What’s the delivery period?

Delivery is subject to our availability. We receive containers from England 3 or 4 times a year.

May I test-drive one before buying?

Yes. We’d be happy to arrange a test drive with us or find a launch that’s already working in your area.

How many people are needed to lift the RS CAT16 catamaran in and out of the water with or without a trailer/trolley?

With trailer/trolley: 1-2 persons.  Without trailer/trolley: 4-6 persons.

What is the weight of each craft?

RS CAT16 complete with a 15Hp about 500 pounds

What is the turning circle of the RS CAT16 catamaran?

The RS CAT16 has a 4-metre (14-feet) turning circle.

Can I tow the catamaran behind my car?

Yes, easily! The catamaran and trailer are very light, less than 1100 pounds with motor and trailer.

Where can I get a trailer for towing?

We supply trailers customised for towing as well as launching the catamarans in and out of the water. The trailers and trolleys are easily operated by one person.

What is the difference between our Rowing Coaching Catamarans and other launches?

Stronger construction and built to last – first boats ever sold in 1992 are still in use!

Higher speeds achieved with less horse-power.

Manoeuvrability – tight turning circle of 4 metres (14-feet radius).

Low wash because of less water displacement with twin hydrodynamic hulls.

Lower energy consumption.

More economic to run because of fuel efficiency.

How durable are the catamarans?

The hulls are made of extremely hardwearing roto-moulded, TRILAM polyethylene, which is approximately 10mm to 12mm thick. The first catamarans were built in 1992 and are still in active use!

All our catamarans carry a 10-year limited warranty on the hulls.(Please see T&C)

How much does one of your catamarans cost?

Email us for a current quote! Prices vary slightly from shipment to shipment but they’re always the most affordable launch of its type.

What our customers are saying:

We have been using the rs 16’s since 2018 and have been very happy with them. their small turning radius is helpful on our narrower river. they are easy to maintain and transport and provide an excellent safe platform to coach from. tom and barb kraft are incredibly helpful and responsive, their attention to detail is always appreciated..

- Kit Bennett, Director of Rowing and Varsity Head Coach, Skyline Crew

This launch is the best coaching platform that I have used in over 20 years as a Division I rowing coach. Once I coached in one, I knew that I had to get them for my staff. We currently have 4 in Omaha. Please come to Omaha and take a test drive

- Daniel Chipps, Head Coach, Creighton Women's Rowing

Request a quote

© rowkraft 2023.

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RS Cat 14 XL - For sailing clubs or families

Practical info.

• Builder : RS Sailing
• Technical specifications

• Finance your RS CAT 14 XL
• Articles about the RS CAT 14 XL
• Available in issue # 180

Boat Test price $5.00 Inc. tax

Add several tests to your cart

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Known as a specialist in smaller sailing dinghies, British manufacturer RS Sailing has recently launched a range of light catamarans aimed at sailing school or family use. For the moment, there are two models. Nicolas Honor, the brand’s importer in France, gave us a demonstration of the smaller (and most recent) of the two, the RS Cat 14, in its XL version.

Test location: Saint-Pierre-Quiberon, France Conditions: Westerly wind of 10 to 15 knots, sea state slight

Though RS Sailing’s catamaran range is currently limited to the RS Cat 16 and 14, these two models have clearly managed to establish themselves as one of the players in the sports multihull business; this manufacturer who traditionally specialized in sailing dinghies has simply applied the rules that have made their monohull models so successful – build quality, attractive design, competitive prices. In fact, RS Sailing has been able to convince many sailing clubs to build an RS Cat fleet. The 16 is perfectly suited for two adults, while the 14, and this is the one we’re taking a look at today, is more suited to children. However, the RS Cat 14 has significant volume, as it is able to support a crew totaling 790 lbs (360 kg). Compared that to the maximum load of 350 lbs (160 kg) for a Hobie Cat 14. While we’re on the subject of comparisons, we can note here the heritage of the Dart 16 as for the anti-leeway plan: the undersid...

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RS CAT 16 XL

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Description

Sparkling performance gives this modern beach and training catamaran the feel of a higher performance boat, yet it could hardly be easier to handle. Start with the main and jib – use the gennaker and trapeze to turbo charge the performance when you’re ready. The RS CAT16 has stability and space so you can enjoy the excitement alone or with family and friends. A new design protected system for joining the beams to the hulls gives increased stiffness compared to other rotomoulded polyethylene catamarans, with the added bonus of allowing the boat to be disassembled quickly for storage or transport. Durability : Convenience : Fun –  the hallmarks of the RS CAT16.

SPECIFICATION

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RS CAT 16 S

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One-design sailing catamaran. The Dart 16 provides exciting performance for kids, youth, and adults alike! With better manoeuvrability than many larger catamarans thanks to a unique hull shape, the Dart 16 has a responsiveness like that found on a racing dinghy yet remains exceptionally stable and forgiving. Fun to teach on and featuring a simple robust construction, it’s no wonder the Dart 16 is the best-selling catamaran!

A SKEG CAT THAT PERFORMS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

The Dart 16 provides exciting performance for kids, youth, and adults. Responsiveness similar to that found on a racing dinghy, yet exceptionally stable and forgiving. Fun to teach on and featuring a simple robust construction.

A rotomolded racing cat that’s all attitude. It has exceptional performance and stability and by just adding the optional XD pack (mylar mainsail, double trapeze and gennaker), you get a completely different boat, more thrilling and even faster. Proven platform for thrill-seekers. Seriously high-tech components range from upgraded carbon tiller extension to performance traveller mainsheet system. In high winds, you can reef the mainsail. The Jib can be furled in seconds and in waves. Dart 16 is known as the best cat for schools as it handles better than many larger catamarans thanks to a unique hull shape. Skegs are incorporated into the hull design avoiding the need for daggerboards. The rudders can easily be lifted so launching from a beach is a breeze.

• Easy – A very permissive catamaran with a clean trampoline provides worry-free sailing
• Thrilling – The Dart 16 accelerates quickly and offers all the sensations of a large catamaran
• Safe – Astonishing stability thanks to the large volume, waterproof mast to avoid ‘turtle’ capsize
• Robust – Built in rotomolded sandwich, the Dart 16 resists all
• XD Optional Parts – To make it even faster, the Dart 16 has the optional spinnaker kit, Mylar sails, a double trapeze and a carbon stick
• DART 16 XD Pack

111.94 ft 2 10.40 m 2

1 - 2 people

15.75 FT 4.80 M

7.55 FT 2.30 M

1.64 FT 0.50 M

98.33 LB 44.60 KG

Club -> National

Beginner -> Advanced

BOAT LIGHTNESS

TIME TO WATER

SKILL LEVEL

118.40 ft 2 11 m 2

124.11 ft 2 11.53 m 2

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