Reply To: Slamming

Dear David

We have been talking about the down sides to sailing catamarans, but have not really mentioned the good side. I thought maybe we should just consider that too. Pat Patterson built really sea worthy safe boats. There are 3 HTs that have circumnavigated, 1 Ocean Winds, and 1 Ocean Twins. Other HTs have crossed the Atlantic repeatedly (or to live in America) and many have travelled to the Med to do some cruising. When you think that the HT is only 26ft it is an amazing testament to their ability. The people accomplishing this are not the Ellen MacArthurs or the Roblin Knox Johnsons, they are ordinary people like you and me! The boats have looked after them all the way round! I have known smaller boats to circumnavigate, but very few…..

OK so there are a few down sides. Everything is a compromise. In general multihulls and Pat's designs in particular are very safe, reliable and comfortable boats and will look after you almost anywhere you choose to go. It is best if you treat them well, look after them and do the maintenance. If you do she should take you anywhere you want to go. Maybe not at breakneck speed, but she WILL get you there.

Cheers
Chrissie