Two boats. You can only choose one ! Which and why?
Essentially same price point
1. Nacra 500: good reputation. Made overseas. No self tacking or roller furling jib. Double trap. Boomless main. From what I hear no issue with parts availability. I believe 6:1 Harken main
2. ARC 17 (think Super Cat but improved). Made in USA. Reputation for solid build. Reputation as very WET boat. Comes with self tacking jib. Standard double trap. Built in righting system. Simple sail plan (no jib lines). 8:1 Harken main
Not mass produced. Does this mean better build??
Either can be retro fitted with spin at a later date.
Edited by saltspray on Jun 17, 2014 - 12:12 PM.
I've had a newer 500 (2000) and a SC 17 (1985) and liked them both a whole lot. If your looking at a newer ARC I would choose it. Aquarius has the best customer service out there and their build quality is super nice. They don't cut corners or skimp on things.
no links????
Posted: Jun 17, 2014 - 01:08 PM
no links????--
1975 P16 "Spring Rain"
Sail # 642
Optimist-Delta "Unity"Steve
Shuswap Lake BC
Lat 119Deg22'54"
Here you go:
http://www.aquarius-sail.com/catamarans/arc17/index.htm
http://www.aquarius-sail.com/catamarans/arc17/standard.htm
http://www.nacrasailing.com/nacra-500/
I just googled self tacking jib for a cat. I must be a slow sailor and not the best tacker because I back-wind the jib the complete a tack quickly. Is this not the case for a modern cat with a good skipper?
If your on the Hobie 14/16 in your avatar, back winding the jib is pretty typical. Those boats are pretty unforgiving to tack. You may improve with easing the main more and sheeting the jib earlier in the process.
Its not the case on a modern boat driven properly. We sheet the jib and generally let it do it's own thing during tacks.