prindle catamaran

16′ Prindle Catamaran: The Ultimate Guide to Sailing this High-Performance Vessel

by Emma Sullivan | Aug 5, 2023 | Sailboat Gear and Equipment

Short answer: 16′ Prindle Catamaran:

The 16′ Prindle Catamaran is a type of sailboat known for its speed and maneuverability. With a length of 16 feet, it is designed to be sailed by one or two people. The Prindle design features twin hulls connected by a trampoline, providing stability and agility on the water. It is commonly used for recreational sailing and racing purposes.

1) All About the 16′ Prindle Catamaran: A Complete Guide

Blog Title: All About the 16′ Prindle Catamaran: A Complete Guide

Introduction: Ahoy, sailing enthusiasts ! Get ready to set sail on an adventure with the magnificent 16′ Prindle Catamaran. Its sleek design and exhilarating performance make it a standout choice for lovers of the sea. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through every facet of this remarkable vessel, from its history to its unique features. So, buckle up your life jacket and prepare to dive into the world of the 16′ Prindle Catamaran!

1. The Birth of a Legend: The story of the 16′ Prindle Catamaran starts with a vision – a vision of speed, stability, and pure joy on water. Developed by renowned designer William “Bill” Parducci in the early 1970s, this catamaran quickly gained a reputation for being both fast and fun. Parducci’s passion for sailing is evident in every curve and contour of this beautifully crafted vessel.

2. Engineering Excellence: Crafted with unwavering attention to detail and top-notch engineering, the 16′ Prindle Catamaran stands as a testament to exceptional craftsmanship. Its lightweight construction ensures high maneuverability while maintaining structural integrity. The cutting-edge design enhances its stability even in challenging conditions, making it ideal for both seasoned sailors and beginners alike.

3. Performance Like No Other: When it comes to performance, the 16′ Prindle Catamaran does not disappoint. Its sleek hulls effortlessly glide over choppy waters, creating an exhilarating experience that sails enthusiasts crave. Whether you’re racing against competitors or enjoying a leisurely cruise with friends, this catamaran’s unmatched speed will leave others in awe.

4. Versatility at Its Best: The beauty of the 16′ Prindle Catamaran lies in its versatility – it offers endless possibilities for exploration. Take it out for a race and feel the adrenaline rush as you zoom past contenders with ease. Or, choose a more relaxed approach and embark on an enjoyable family outing, relishing the gentle breeze while creating everlasting memories.

5. Cutting-Edge Features: The 16′ Prindle Catamaran is equipped with several innovative features that make your sailing experience even more enjoyable. Its trampoline-style mesh deck provides a comfortable seating area, allowing you to kick back and relax while soaking up the sun. The easily adjustable sail allows for precise control, ensuring optimal performance at all times.

6. Joining the Prindle Community: When you decide to embark on your journey with the 16′ Prindle Catamaran, you become part of a vibrant community of like-minded individuals passionate about sailing. Connect with fellow sailors through events, forums, and social media groups dedicated to sharing expertise and experiences.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the 16′ Prindle Catamaran is not just another boat – it’s an epitome of artistry, engineering brilliance, and sheer delight on water. With its legendary history, exceptional performance capabilities, and innovative features, this catamaran embodies everything that makes sailing an unforgettable adventure. So why wait? Set sail on your next aquatic escapade aboard the remarkable 16′ Prindle Catamaran and embrace the thrill of life on waves like never before!

2) How to Sail a 16′ Prindle Catamaran: Tips and Tricks

Sailing a 16′ Prindle Catamaran can be an exhilarating experience for any sailing enthusiast. With its sleek design and nimble handling, this small but powerful vessel is perfect for those looking to navigate the open water with style and finesse. In this blog post, we will delve into some valuable tips and tricks that will not only aid you in sailing this exceptional catamaran but also help you master the art of sailing itself.

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Basics: Before setting sail on your Prindle Catamaran, it is crucial to have a solid understanding of basic sailing principles. This includes learning about wind direction and how to harness its power effectively. You should also acquire knowledge about sail trimming techniques, steering methods, and how to control speed through adjusting your sails. The more you know about these fundamentals, the more confidently you can handle your catamaran on the water .

2. Get Acquainted with Your Vessel: Take time to become intimately familiar with your Prindle Catamaran’s unique features and characteristics. This involves inspecting all rigging components, learning how to hoist and lower the mast properly, checking that all lines are untangled and correctly rigged, and ensuring that all hardware is secure before launching onto the water. Knowing your boat inside out will save you from unexpected mishaps during your sailing adventures .

3. Prepare for Launch: Prior to embarking on a thrilling sail adventure, make sure you have all necessary safety equipment onboard such as life jackets, flares, a first-aid kit, and a marine radio or cellphone for emergencies. It’s important to ensure that everything is stowed away securely to avoid any potential hazards while navigating choppy waters .

4. Understanding Wind Patterns: Sailboats rely heavily on wind patterns for propulsion; therefore having a keen understanding of wind behavior will significantly enhance your catamaran experience. Learn how different points of sail , such as a close-hauled or running reach, impact your boat’s speed and maneuverability. Experiment with trimming your sails at various angles to optimize performance based on the wind conditions. Becoming a master at reading the wind will allow you to make calculated decisions while on the water, resulting in more thrilling and effortless sailing experiences.

5. Fine-tuning Your Sail Trim: Adjusting your sails correctly is paramount when it comes to maximizing your Prindle Catamaran’s efficiency and speed. Keep an eye on telltales – these small pieces of ribbon or yarn attached to the sail can provide important indications about airflow. Properly trimmed sails should have smooth airflow, seen through consistent streamlining of telltales. Practice fine-tuning these adjustments to maintain optimal speed and reduce drag while ensuring stability.

6. Navigating Turns Excellently: One of the joys of sailing a catamaran is its exceptional maneuverability. To execute precise turns with finesse, it’s essential first to understand how weight distribution affects each hull during turning maneuvers. Experienced sailors suggest shifting crew weight outward while making quick turns, causing inward force exertion on the hulls for sharper maneuverability. Remember that sharp turns should be executed with caution especially in rough waters.

7. Mastering Capsize Recovery: Catamarans are known for being excellent performers in all winds but occasionally mishaps can occur whereby your boat may capsize unexpectedly due to excessive wind or misjudgment during maneuvers. Therefore, having knowledge of capsize recovery techniques is essential for safety and swift re-launching. Be sure to practice righting your vessel regularly in controlled conditions so that if a capsize does happen unexpectedly, you’ll be well-prepared to flip her over and get back into action swiftly.

8. Expanding Your Skill Set: Continuous learning will always improve your experience as a sailor. Attend local sailing schools or workshops specialized in catamarans if possible – even experienced sailors can benefit from refining their skills. Engage in conversations with fellow sailors, seek advice and join sailing communities to broaden your understanding of the sport. The more you expose yourself to new ideas, techniques, and experiences, the better sailor you will become.

Sailing a 16′ Prindle Catamaran requires a combination of technical know-how, experience, and adventurous spirit. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll not only increase your confidence when handling this incredible vessel but also enhance your overall enjoyment of the high seas. So hoist those sails high, embrace the winds, and let your Prindle Catamaran whisk you away on unforgettable sailing adventures!

3) Building a 16′ Prindle Catamaran: Step-by-Step Process

Building a 16′ Prindle Catamaran: Step-by-Step Process

Ah, the thrill of building your very own catamaran! If you’re an avid sailor or simply a DIY enthusiast looking to delve into the world of boat construction, building a 16′ Prindle Catamaran might just be your ticket to maritime bliss. While it may sound like a daunting endeavor, fear not! We’re here to guide you through the step-by-step process of constructing this nautical masterpiece.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials Before embarking on your catamaran-building adventure, take some time to gather all the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need basic woodworking tools such as saws, chisels, and sanders, as well as marine-grade plywood for the hulls and deck. Don’t forget about epoxy resin, fiberglass cloth, and various hardware components like screws and bolts – these essentials will ensure smooth sailing throughout the construction process!

Step 2: Designing Your Dreamboat Now that you’ve set up your workshop and secured all your supplies, it’s time to unleash your creative side! Designing your dream catamaran involves making decisions about sail rigging, seating arrangement, and other customizable features. Get those creative gears turning – after all, this is where personality meets craftsmanship!

Step 3: Laying Out the Hulls With plans in hand (or on screen), it’s time to start turning those dreams into reality. Begin by laying out the dimensions of the hulls on large sheets of marine plywood using wooden battens. Precision is key here; any miscalculations could result in a wonky vessel that vogues more than it sails !

Step 4: Cut It Out! Once you’ve carefully marked out the shape of each hull section on the plywood sheets, grab that trusty jigsaw or circular saw and start cutting along those lines. Remember, measure twice, cut once! Careful craftsmanship will pay dividends when it comes to assembling your floating work of art.

Step 5: Hull Assembly Hilarity Now that you’ve got a pile of freshly minted catamaran hull sections in front of you, it’s time to assemble the pieces like an intricate jigsaw puzzle. Utilize strong epoxy resin to bond the sections together, ensuring sturdiness and water-tightness. Trust us, you wouldn’t want any unwanted visitors – ahem, water – making its way into your pristine vessel!

Step 6: Craftsmanship Meets Artistry – Deck Construction Once your hulls are firmly joined together, grab your marine plywood and start crafting that captivating deck. This is where the real magic happens; after all, who doesn’t love lounging on a polished teak deck with a cocktail in hand? Cut out meticulously measured deck pieces and lay them down atop wooden beams for added support. Oh yes, we’re getting closer to boat bliss!

Step 7: Fiberglass Fantasia Now it’s time to reinforce your creation with some serious fiberglass muscle! Apply epoxy resin onto the surfaces of both hulls and deck before carefully laying fiberglass cloth on top. Smooth out any potential air bubbles or creases as you go – think of yourself as a master sculptor reshaping reality itself!

Step 8: Let It Shine – Sanding & Finishing Touches With the majority of construction now complete (congrats!), it’s time to give your catamaran some extra flair before setting sail into the sunset. Smooth down rough edges with sandpaper until your fingertips can glide effortlessly over the surface. Add some varnish or paint for that breathtaking finishing touch – now everyone will know just how much panache went into building this masterpiece!

There you have it – an extensive step-by-step guide to building a remarkable 16′ Prindle Catamaran. As you embark on this thrilling journey, remember to embrace the craft’s artistry, infuse it with your personality, and always stay true to your vision. And who knows? Before long, you might find yourself effortlessly cruising the open waters, captaining a vessel that started as nothing more than a dream and transformed into a courageous voyager of endless possibilities!

4) Frequently Asked Questions about the 16′ Prindle Catamaran

Introducing the 16′ Prindle Catamaran – Answering Your Burning Questions!

Are you an adrenaline junkie seeking a thrilling sailing experience, or perhaps a laid-back sailor who enjoys cruising on the water? Look no further than the remarkable 16′ Prindle Catamaran! This high-performance and versatile boat has been gaining popularity among sailing enthusiasts, and understandably so. In this blog post, we will dive into some frequently asked questions about the 16′ Prindle Catamaran to help you better understand why it’s worth your attention.

Q1: What makes the 16′ Prindle Catamaran stand out from other sailboats?

A: The 16′ Prindle Catamaran stands as a beacon of innovation in its class. With its unique design featuring twin hulls connected by a trampoline-like structure, this vessel ensures exceptional stability and speed. Its lightweight construction allows for nimble maneuverability, making it ideal for both casual cruising and competitive racing. This combination of stability, speed, and versatility truly sets it apart from traditional monohull sailboats.

Q2: How easy is it to learn how to sail this catamaran ?

A: Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or new to the world of sailing, learning to navigate the 16′ Prindle Catamaran is an exhilarating adventure waiting for you. While some basic knowledge of sailing principles may come in handy, there are no insurmountable barriers for beginners wanting to try their hand at catamaran sailing . The user-friendly design allows for quick familiarization with its controls and handling characteristics, paving the way for an enjoyable learning curve.

Q3: Can I take my family along on this catamaran?

A: Absolutely! The beauty of the 16′ Prindle Catamaran lies in its ability to accommodate various forms of enjoyment on the water. Its spacious deck provides ample room for comfortable seating and even allows for multiple passengers, making it an ideal choice for family outings. You can introduce your loved ones to the joys of sailing while ensuring their safety thanks to the boat ‘s excellent stability.

Q4: Is the 16′ Prindle Catamaran suitable for racing?

A: Undeniably! If you have a competitive spirit and crave thrilling races against fellow sailors, the 16’ Prindle Catamaran is an exceptional choice. Engineered with performance in mind, this catamaran can reach impressive speeds thanks to its sleek design and efficient sail plan. Its maneuverability makes it a formidable contender on any racecourse, allowing you to participate in local regattas or satisfy your appetite for adrenaline during friendly competitions.

Q5: How durable is this catamaran? Can it withstand harsh weather conditions ?

A: The durability of the 16′ Prindle Catamaran is one of its strong suits. Crafted from top-quality materials known for their resilience, this vessel ensures long-lasting enjoyment on the water . While no sailboat is entirely impervious to extreme weather conditions, the 16′ Prindle has been constructed to handle various situations with confidence and stability. However, as with any sailing activity, it’s essential to stay informed about current weather forecasts and take necessary precautions when venturing out into challenging environments.

In conclusion, the 16′ Prindle Catamaran stands tall as an exciting option that combines speed, stability, versatility, and durability. Whether you’re seeking adventure-filled races or tranquil family outings on the water, this innovative sailboat has got your back! So why wait? Dive into unforgettable sailing experiences with the remarkable 16′ Prindle Catamaran today!

5) Exploring the Performance of the 16′ Prindle Catamaran

Title: Unveiling the Untamed Brilliance: Delving into the Performance of the 16′ Prindle Catamaran

Introduction: In the captivating world of sailing, there’s a vessel that stands out among its peers – the 16′ Prindle Catamaran. Designed to conquer both tranquil waters and raging waves with equal fervor, this magnificent craft offers a unique blend of speed, agility, and sheer excitement. Join us on an exhilarating journey as we unravel the extraordinary performance capabilities of this remarkable catamaran.

1) A Dance with Speed: When it comes to velocity, the 16′ Prindle Catamaran gracefully takes center stage. Its streamlined design effortlessly slices through water, harnessing every gust of wind for optimal propulsion. Equipped with a sturdy yet lightweight frame, this beauty can reach mind-boggling speeds that rival even some monohull sailboats. Experience firsthand how adrenaline surges as you glide across glistening waves like a dolphin gracefully cutting through oceanic currents .

2) Agility in Motion: Much like an agile predator chasing its prey, the Prindle Catamaran thrives on maneuverability. With twin hulls providing exceptional stability, tight turns and quick course corrections become second nature to this dynamic seafarer. Even in demanding sea conditions, where other vessels may stumble or struggle to maintain stability, these catamarans exhibit incredible responsiveness and nimbleness – traits seldom seen in ordinary sailing boats .

3) Masterful Design Elements: The visionary engineers behind the Prindle Catamaran meticulously crafted every detail to ensure unrivaled performance possibilities. The vessel’s low center of gravity prevents excessive tipping during swift maneuvers while granting heightened control over wind gusts. Moreover, its aerodynamic shape minimizes drag effectively and maximizes acceleration potential — a harmonious marriage between form and function that allows sailors to embark on awe-inspiring adventures without limitations.

4) Challenging the Winds: In the realm of competitive sailing, wind conditions play a significant role in determining success. Here’s where the 16′ Prindle Catamaran shines brightest by taming even the harshest air currents with uncanny expertise. Its efficient sails, meticulously refined over countless iterations, harness prevailing winds with remarkable precision to propel the vessel forward effortlessly. As revered sailors often jest, dancing with the wind becomes an exquisite and addictive affair when aboard this formidable catamaran.

5) A Symphony of Versatility: The true beauty of the 16′ Prindle Catamaran extends beyond its extraordinary speed and agility. This craft possesses an enchanting capacity for versatile navigation, fostering a sense of freedom and endless exploration. From serene lake waters to crashing ocean waves, from weekend leisurely cruises to spirited racing events, this multifaceted catamaran transcends boundaries to accommodate every sailor ‘s whimsical desires. It’s a vessel that adapts seamlessly to diverse environments while steadfastly ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion: The 16’ Prindle Catamaran represents more than just a boat; it embodies an exhilarating way of life on water – one defined by unbridled speed , effortless maneuverability, and limitless possibilities. Whether you’re navigating calm waters or challenging yourself against nature’s relentless forces, this remarkable catamaran is destined to awaken your inner daredevil while leaving you with a thirst for endless maritime adventures. Welcome aboard the thrilling journey upon which only few have embarked – welcome aboard the phenomenon that is the 16′ Prindle Catamaran!

6) Maintenance and Care for Your 16′ Prindle Catamaran

Title: Keeping Your 16′ Prindle Catamaran Shipshape: A Masterclass in Maintenance and Care

Introduction: Ahoy, fellow seafarers! Today, we embark on a voyage through the treacherous waters of maintaining and caring for your prized possession – the majestic 16′ Prindle Catamaran. Just as every sailor respects the sea, it is vital to respect your vessel by following these key maintenance tips . With a touch of wit and cleverness, we present to you our guide to ensure smooth sailing for years to come.

1) Keeping Her Exterior Gleaming: Gentlefolk say that beauty is only skin deep, but when it comes to your catamaran’s exterior, appearances do matter! To maintain her lustrous allure, be sure to wash her thoroughly after each sail with fresh water and mild soap. Remember, a thorough rinse prevents disastrous salt build-up which may lead to corrosion. Go mad with some elbow grease and polish her up periodically to restore her former shine!

2) Guard Against Sneaky Creepers: Alas! The sea is full of tiny hooligans waiting for an opportune moment to invade your boat—namely barnacles and other slimy creatures. Protect your Prindle from these unwanted hitchhikers by investing in an antifouling paint job below the waterline. This savvy technique prevents them from finding a cozy home on your hull while delightfully reducing friction while racing across those waves – fast and furious!

3) Show Some TLC Towards Your Gear: Just as pirates have their trusty cutlass, sailors rely heavily on various gear whose proper care should never be neglected. Rigging is like the backbone of any proud catamaran—a tangled mess spells disaster! Inspect it regularly for signs of wear or fraying and promptly replace any worn-out lines or cables before setting sail again.

4) Embrace the Spirit of the Squeegee: One wouldn’t dare make merry amongst seaweed-filled seas, so why tolerate a murky cockpit? Invest in a trusty squeegee and promptly eliminate any water from the deck. Avoiding standing water will help fend off corrosion, prolonging the life of your rigging, fasteners, and other essential parts .

5) Unleash Your Inner Sherlock: A truly great sailor understands the need for cunning investigation before setting sail . Regularly inspect your Prindle Catamaran’s rudder system to identify any signs of weakness or wear. Check for loose fittings, binding or corroded parts that could lead to potential disasters on rough waters. Address these issues proactively and unleash your inner detective to spot any lurking troubles before they rear their ugly heads!

6) A Little Lubrication Goes a Long Way: In maritime parlance, “squeaky-clean” should solely refer to conversation skills rather than key sailing mechanisms ! Take heed and keep control systems lubricated with marine-grade grease regularly. A little TLC through proper lubrication saves you from squeaks, binds, snags, and keeps things running smoothly during those thrilling races or leisurely cruises .

Conclusion: Dear sailors and adventurers alike, preserving the charm of your 16′ Prindle Catamaran is no mere task; it is an art form! By implementing these witty yet professional maintenance tips into your routine, you can ensure optimal performance while conquering the high seas . Remember: dedication to upkeep today prevents heartache tomorrow. So polish up those dreams of sun-soaked sails; smooth sailing awaits!

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What would you pick between a Prindle and a Hobie cat for a play Catamaran?

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I live on a decent sized lake in the middle of washington state and i've always wanted to get a catamaran to buzz around in but I could never find a good deal. I've mostly been looking into Hobie cats, but I just found a 18' prindle in good shape for dirt cheap with trailer and I'm seriously debating on going down to get it, but i'm not that well versed in the prindle brand. If anyone has any preferences or input i'd appreciate it.  

I sailed Prindle cats for a dozen years. That's my preference. I now paddle/peddle Hobie inflatables. Wish I had a place to store a Prindle cat. Hobies are fine, I guess, if they have fixed their tendency to pitchpole. I think they have. Don't get an old one though. Have fun!  

I sail a Prindle 16, very similar to a Prindle 18. Fantastic boats. Some of the older Hobies had their tramps fitted on pylons over fairly low volume hulls. The limited volume of Hobie hulls can result in them going under, rather than through waves which can result in pitch pole. Early Prindles had their tramps mounted directly on higher volume hulls which provided more bouyancy and reduced the risk of pitch pole. Basically, Prindles are more forgiving then older Hobies IMO, and they are quick. I believe the 18 you are loking has assymetirc hulls and no dagger board, this will hurt upwind performance some vrs a dagger board cat, but their are fewer failure modes and the assymetric boats can be beached and sailed in shallow water with more confidence. Prindle 18 shouldbe a great play boat due to the above attributes. 2 of 11 finishers in the multi hull class of the recent EC were old Prindles, including my 16 and a very fast 19. Ive got a thread going where you can see a Prindle In action here. http://www.sailnet.com/forums/racing/312682-2018-everglades-challenge-7.html  

IME the Prindle will be a little more durable. Sailed both for years and years. I miss the Prindle.  

I think the Prindle 18 would be a real gas to mess about on. It's a lot more boat than a Hobie 16 and more of a racer. I believe you can even get chutes and various size headsails, which I haven't seen for Hobies. Not to say a Hobie 16 is a dog. I used to surf mine on the ocean swells in the Molokai channel in Hawaii and it was a blast.  

Well you guys convinced me. I'll going to go out tomorrow to take a look at it.  

Maybe check out this vid of me buying my Prindle 16. We were pretty thorough. Might give some ideas to think about. We did heavily modify the boat after purchase, but she was in good shape.  

Our Spirit 17 is a crazy Frankenstein of a Hobie and Prindle. It's got the more full Prindle hull shapes, but with the tramp pylons of the Hobie. Maybe the best of both worlds? I've not yet pitch-poled her. Maybe this summer?  

Learned to sail on a Hobie 16. My daughter and I raced nationally competitively on the,. Kept one on the beach in front of our house in Ocean City N J for 16 years. Prindles are a step up IMHO My daughter has a picture of me sailing the Hobie pulling her on water skis. They are super fun and super quick  

I'm having a hard time finding information on this so I hoped some of the Prindle fans could answer this question for me; Do Prindles have any sort of seat (wing) option? This one says it has the trapeze, but my dad is 75 and really wants to sail it as well and the wings would make that a little easier.  

The 18 was the Best prindle they made. the 2 feet over the 16 made it faster and less likely to pitch pole, can carry a larger crew weight but still simple with no dagger boards. Only weights 30 lbs more then a 16. I raced both the 16 and 18 for many years. Crewed on the 18 for nationals and place third, first two boats where both olympic sailors. still have the 16 we bought in 1978. If you want to sail a a pair of Sinking Bananas get a Hobie, if want to sail a real CAT get the prindle. check out https://www.murrays.com/category/c/ for parts and stiff for either hobie or Prindle  

overbored said: The 18 was the Best prindle they made. the 2 feet over the 16 made it faster and less likely to pitch pole, can carry a larger crew weight but still simple with no dagger boards. Only weights 30 lbs more then a 16. I raced both the 16 and 18 for many years. Crewed on the 18 for nationals and place third, first two boats where both olympic sailors. still have the 16 we bought in 1978. If you want to sail a a pair of Sinking Bananas get a Hobie, if want to sail a real CAT get the prindle. check out Catamaran Sailing - Murrays Sports for parts and stiff for either hobie or Prindle Click to expand...

My 2 cents. I raced H-18 for years. Sailed the P-18. Both great boats. Both 18's are similar. Think only the H has a Wing option. Never liked or used the wing on the last H-18 I had. In fact a casting on the wing I was hiking from snapped and threw me for a loop, so to speak.  

slanter said: If anyone has any preferences or input i'd appreciate it. Click to expand...

slanter said: Do Prindles have any sort of seat (wing) option? Click to expand...

I went to look at it today, the only problems I saw were; the rudder locks were kinda stiff and didn't engage easily, though they did eventually work. There was one soft spot from the roller, about an inch and a half wide, the holes used for mast-stepping had broken so raisin the mast with one person would be hard, and it's missing a turnbuckle for the forestay. In still thinking of picking it up for $500, the sails and tramp were great. I'll probably pick it up next weekend.  

That all sounds pretty easily addressed, and for $500 including a trailer that's a good deal for a working beach cat, assuming the sails are decent. Are the sails decent? Sounds like fun!  

sails looked really good, although apparently at one point one of the sails was mended (supposedly by a professional) and they accidentally sewed up the pockets of one of the battens so the very last batten on the bottom is missing. I figure one batten probably won't make that much of a difference, especially to someone who's never sailed a beach cat before, like me.  

Just make or purchase a new batten. I wouldn't sail missing a batten if I didn't have to.  

Hmm... in order to get it to go in i'd have to cut the stictches that were stitched into the batton pocket. Would missing the bottom batton make much of a difference?  

If it was me Id build the boat before some one beat me to it, you can worry about the batten pocket later. Its not something i would stress about. Not sure, maybe you cut cut the thread and sew it back up in that spot with a household sewing machine. If i need something small sewn up, i usually get my sister in law or my mom to do it for me, just because they are better at sewing than me. Prindles have pretty nice sail shapes with their battens in. I think it will sail better and look better with it in, but its not the end of the world. I had a bit of a learning curve learning to tack mine, theyre quite a bit different then the mono hulls i was used to. A couple of the posters on this thread gave me some pretty good tips on that, but having good sail shape will likely help a bit too.  

I would not let it stop you from getting the boat. could sail without he bottom one or sew a new pocket over the outside of the existing one to form a new pocket.  

So I pulled the trigger and picked it up on friday. First sailboat I've owned that didn't have a cabin! Now I just have to stare at it until the weather/water warms up a bit and give it a go. Fortunately I have another sailboat project that'll keep me occupied until it gets nicer around here. Thanks for all the help folks, it was invaluable.  

I'm jealous! Have fun.  

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PRINDLE 16 Detailed Review

If you are a boat enthusiast looking to get more information on specs, built, make, etc. of different boats, then here is a complete review of PRINDLE 16. Built by Performance Catamarans Inc. and designed by Geoffrey Prindle, the boat was first built in 1971. It has a hull type of Catamaran Twin Dbrd. and LOA is 4.88. Its sail area/displacement ratio 67.55. Its auxiliary power tank, manufactured by undefined, runs on undefined.

PRINDLE 16 has retained its value as a result of superior building, a solid reputation, and a devoted owner base. Read on to find out more about PRINDLE 16 and decide if it is a fit for your boating needs.

Boat Information

Boat specifications, contributions, who designed the prindle 16.

PRINDLE 16 was designed by Geoffrey Prindle.

Who builds PRINDLE 16?

PRINDLE 16 is built by Performance Catamarans Inc..

When was PRINDLE 16 first built?

PRINDLE 16 was first built in 1971.

How long is PRINDLE 16?

PRINDLE 16 is 4.57 m in length.

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• Sailboat Guide

Prindle 18-2

Prindle 18-2 is a 18 ′ 0 ″ / 5.5 m catamaran sailboat built by Prindle Catamarans and Performance Catamarans Inc. starting in 1983.

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)

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