cat bag sailboat

F U N & V E R Y S I M P L E C O N T R O L

S U P E R S A I L I N G E X P E R I E N C E

F L E X I B L E & E A S Y T O T R A N S P O R T

P O R T A B L E & F A S T T O A S S E M B L E

THE WORLD'S FAVORITE PORTABLE SAILBOAT

Searching for a light portable sailboat that is no hassle to transport, fast to assemble, easy to handle, looks great and you can afford it? A boat that doesn’t need a trailer, takes minimum storage and is perfect for apartment living, campers & lovers of the outdoors, travelling sailors and as yacht toy?

Search no more – you found it! It’s called GUPPY and it’s just few clicks away.

GUPPY is an inflatable catamaran you can take on the plane with you when going on a sailing holidays, is easy to fit in any campervan, motorhome or RV, even a family car and is a great addition to your super-yacht or live-aboard without the usual storage and assembly problems.

• 3-piece flexible composite mast
• No anchoring lines
• Main Sail 4.5 m2 / no Jib
• Aluminium Rudder
• Grey Floats pre-fixed to the main frame
• Super easy and fast assembly – 10 mins only – no tools required
• Fits in a single bag 165x30x30cm and only 27 kg
• Colourful and trendy design
• 24-month full product warrant
• Accessories available
• Produced by long-established portable sailboat brand ‘MiniCat’

Based on our 17 years of experience in designing and producing MiniCat – the world’s favorite portable sailboat, we set out to create an all-new ‘entry model’. We took over a year of design, development, testing, changing and testing again but we are now proud to introduce you the all-new addition to MiniCat family - ‘GUPPY’.

With an assembly time of just 10 mins this sailboat is a fantastic addition to the current MiniCat range especially for those who are looking for a fun, easy and affordable first sailboat.

Based on our 14 years of experience in designing and producing MiniCat – the world’s favorite portable sailboat, we set out to create an all-new ‘entry model’. We took over a year of design, development, testing, changing and testing again but we are now proud to introduce you the all-new addition to MiniCat family - ‘GUPPY’.

Because it is so simple! From being stored in your cupboard or garage just load it in the car and go. One bag weighing just 27kg, assembled in 10 mins – that’s GUPPY, the unique portable sailboat.

Want to take your own small sailing catamaran on holidays? Want to have some fun sailing at the weekend, but don’t have space for your own boat?

The solution is GUPPY!

Because it is so simple! From being stored in your cupboard or garage just load it in the car and go. One bag weighing just 26kg, assembled in 15 mins – that’s GUPPY, the unique portable sailboat.

  BUY YOUR GUPPY NOW FOR JUST €3,450 (excl. VAT)  

Buy your guppy now for just €3,450 (excl. vat).

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• Guppy for campers
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LIGHTWEIGHT LANDING CRAFT RANGE

LIGHTWEIGHT CATAMARAN YACHT TENDER

INFLATABLE FISHING KAYAK

PORTABLE INFLATABLE DINGHY

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TRUE KIT INFLATABLE CATAMARANS

The catamaran advantage.

We strive to keep the weight out of our inflatable catamaran range to make our dinghies manageable by anyone. Carrying and rowing these boats is a breeze, and for our larger designs we have our exclusive QuickLok Dingy Launching Wheels. 

Whether you are using your True Kit as a tender and need to pull it onboard the mothership, or your True Kit is the water-going extension of your caravan, keeping it light is critical. The secret is in our thermo-welded seams and superior fabrics, which help us to remove all unnecessary weight from the boat.

All True Kit, our inflatable catamarans are designed to be packed down and travelled with easily. We use the finest German-made fabrics that are flexible and durable to be folded and unfolded again and again.

Because our boats are so portable, they can be launched from more remote areas of lakes and waterways - giving you the best experience on the water.

Experience what we call "stand up stability". The nature of inflatable catamarans means all the buoyancy is on the outside. This provides an incredibly stable platform for stepping in and out of the dinghy.

True Kit inflatable catamaran's have a hull that has significantly less drag than a typical deep-v hull. This efficiency allows owners to have the option to use much smaller, lighter, more affordable outboard engines. You need less horsepower to enjoy a thrilling ride.

This also makes it the perfect boat for a small electric outboard - maximizing the the range and speed.

DISCOVER THE TRUE KIT RANGE

PERFECT FOR ALL ADVENTURES

YACHT TENDER

EVERY TRUE KIT IS BUILT TO LAST

THERMO-WELDED SEAMS

Seams are regularly the Achilles Heel fo inflatable boat’s, but not with the True Kit range. We thermo-weld all of our seams for a bond that is stronger than the fabric itself. Don’t settle for glued seams.

TRUE-ALU TRANSOM

Our transom ensures direct power transfer from the engine to the boat with a strong, lightweight aluminum design. Finished with a marine-quality AkzoNobel powder coat, it’s built to last for years to come.

VALMEX FABRIC

For top quality and durability, we use Valmex® fabric by Mehler, Germany’s leading textile producer. Valmex® offers superior flexibility, UV resistance, and airtightness, making it ideal for long-lasting inflatables.

"True Kit inflatables are uniquely brilliant. Light to handle on land whilst stable and safe on the water."

Martin Woodhouse, True Kit Discovery Owner

At True Kit we commit to dispatching your order in 1-3 business days. You will receive tracking notifications as soon as your order is on its way. Our aim is to help get you out on the water as soon as possible.

We stand behind the quality and durability of our inflatable catamarans because all our boats go through a rigorous testing protocol. That's why we offer an industry-leading 5-year warranty on all our boats. Enjoy long-term peace of mind with every purchase, knowing that your True Kit is built to last and protected by our comprehensive warranty coverage.

Enjoy a seamless purchase experience with True Kit Direct, where all our inflatable catamarans come directly from us to you, ensuring you benefit from expert advice and substantial savings. By eliminating middlemen, we offer you not just lower prices but also a closer connection to the brand that crafts your boat. Our direct-to-customer approach guarantees personalized service and the best value, enhancing your buying experience with expert insights and exclusive benefits.

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THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE

Experience the perfect True Kit Discovery and Navigator set-ups, with all the accessories your new boat will need. All assembled professionally before it leaves our store ready for you out-of-the-box.

Our innovative designs are based on an ultra-efficient catamaran platform, which means our boats out-perform most

Find your true kit.

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Testimonials

Easiest boat I have ever bought and staff were excellent and very helpful. Absolutely no problem purchasing from Australia and better than anything I could buy in Australia.

Great looking boat I haven't had the time to use the boat yet, but have assembled and inflated the boat. Compared to the Zodiac Granride MK3, it's a lot lighter, and the inflatable deck is much easier then the zodiacs hard deck to get in place. So just from looking at the TrueKit, i think the quality is up at the zodiac level, and looking forward to try out the boat in the water!

We’ve had our boat for a few weeks now, and I can honestly say we love it. It’s super stable and planes easily. It is super light, so loading it correctly matters, but that is super easy to do.

Discovery 330 has exceeded my expectations after my sea trials and break in of my Yamaha F6. Set up with the supplied hand pump worked well. Spring loaded wheels are a must have. Once inflated inspection of the seams and construction confirmed my research that this is a high quality craft that will provide years of enjoyment. After break in of my Yamaha with one person onboard the F6 pushed her along nicely.

52 Glenmore Road Coatesville Auckland 0793 New Zealand Phone  +6499507017

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Takacat boats.

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Introducing the Ultimate Portable Watercraft

THE TAKACAT LX SERIES BOAT LINEUP

Takacat LX Series boats are durable, stable, and designed with smart features that make them a perfect choice for marine professionals and recreational water enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re looking for a foldable sports boat for fishing or exploring, or need a quality portable tender for your yacht or RV, the Takacat team of lightweight dinghies are a tough, stable, and fun option on any water. The full Takacat lineup features stability, versatility, and lightweight performance for a wide range of uses. The innovative and fully removable Tube Transom® system allows Takacat inflatable tenders to be rolled up into two carry bags for easy transportation and storage.

Big Adventure in an Ultra-Portable Package

The Takacat LX Series boats feature a revolutionary, and completely removable, Tube Transom®. The sleek and minimal Tube Transom® design makes the boat about 15 lbs lighter than traditional inflatable boats. Because the transom can be completely removed, Takacat packs down significantly smaller as compared to other inflatable boats. All Takacat boats can be packed small enough to be checked as baggage on a plane, thrown into bench seat storage, or tossed into an SUV trunk for a weekend adventure — no need for a trailer.

Fast, Stable Catamaran Design for Ultimate Fun

The lightweight, low resistance design of Takacat boats provides quick and level planing, exceptional stability, and fuel economy. The low draft and buoyant inflatable catamaran construction allows for navigation through extremely shallow water and provides the ability to get further up on a beach or ramp before grounding the boat.

Fast-Draining Open Bow and Tube Transom®

The unique Tube Transom® design of Takacat combined with the fully open bow allows the deck to continuously drain. Fast and constant draining keeps the deck dry and prevents water from building up inside the boat, a great advantage when sensitive gear is on board or when towing.

Easy-Entry Open Bow Design

The open bow, raised deck and rigid air deck floor makes boarding passengers and cargo effortless from the beach, dock, and even a larger vessel. Combined with the shallow draft of the boat, entry and exit from the water is just as simple, even for small children and pets.

Durable Hull Tube Construction

All Takacat boat models are available in both PVC and Hypalon fabric construction. Standard tubes are fabricated from durable custom-made 0.9mm, 1000 denier PVC. Digital Camo and Woodland Camo color options are built using thicker 1mm, 1200 denier PVC for extra rub and tear resistance in flooded timber and murky, backcountry water. All models can be custom ordered in Hypalon fabric for exceptional UV protection and resistance to extreme temperatures.

INNOVATIVE FEATURES OF THE TAKACAT LX

Smart and functional design comes standard with every Takacat model. We never settle for second best, and always have high quality design and solid materials as our top priority. It’s who we are, and we're proud of it.

1 The open transom and raised floor keeps the water out and the floor dry. Any water that does find its way in, will go straight out the back.

2 Takacat’s original open bow design provides safety and convenience when entering and exiting. Standard inflatable high-pressure air floor and optional hybrid fiberglass rigid floor both offer an ultra-stable surface for on/off-boarding from land or water.

3 Inner and outer grab lines provide safe handholds so you can sit anywhere.

4 atamaran design makes for efficient and easy rowing while also tracking well, even in a crosswind.

5 Halkey-Roberts fill valve for fast, reliable inflation and deflation. Pressure relief valves prevent over-pressurization when left in the hot sun.

6 Non-skid PVC on the air deck floor makes for slip-free fun! Ultra UV Stabilized, it will not get chalky over time.

1 Aerodynamic tapered bow is designed to ensure you go over the top of rough and choppy waters. It also reduces windage over flared bow designs.

2 Fixed oarlocks and Velcro straps ensure you won’t be up the creek without a paddle!

3 Designed with a single seam on each hull. Seam is sealed using a chemical bonding gluing system and a quadruple overlap of material to ensure airtightness, even after years of folding.

4 Innovative Tube Transom Design has quick attachment points for rod holders and beach launching wheels.

6 Lifting handle at the stern for easy portage, even with a light outboard still attached.

1 Heavy-duty rubber under-tube protection for beaching and transport ease.

2 Extra large diameter tubes for added carry capacity and comfort.

3 Shallow Draft is a huge advantage when navigating shallow water and allows you to get further up the beach or ramp before the hull of the boat grounds.

4 Not a flat bottom. Catamaran hull allows for a lower wetted surface area making Takacat boats much faster with less horsepower.

The T260LX is the go-anywhere ultra-compact boat. Portability and lightweight make it an ideal small watercraft for couples or solo boaters for fishing, and perfect for storage in an RV or larger vessel as a tender. Small size makes it a breeze to inflate and be out on the water in minutes.

Packed full of the innovative features that define Takacat, the Takacat T300LX is the flagship tender and most popular smaller day boat in the Takacat LX range. This boat has repeatedly proven to be a truly fun and reliable tender by thousands of passionate boaters.

The innovative design and rugged performance of Takacat meet in the perfectly midsize T340LX. With plenty of room for the family, or just enough for a couple friends, fishing gear and a cooler, the T340LX is the versatile do-it-all boat for a day on the water.

There’s no doubt why the Takacat 380LX is a family favorite. The large roomy deck provides plenty of the space for the whole crew and the ride is supremely stable. It’s the perfect watercraft for fishing, swimming, diving, hunting, or just a day of cruising.

The Takacat 420LX combines all the distinctive features of the Takacat line with an extra wide platform, making it a workhorse on the water. The wide platform means the boat can hold up to 7 people. Even with all the extra room, it stills packs down to fit in the trunk.

The T460LX is the ultimate portable work or family boat. A long waterline makes it comfortable and fast with any size outboard. One of the largest SIBS available on the market!

ADVENTURE AWAITS

Our passion for the water and leading edge boat design grew over a lifetime spent in and around boats. We invite you to experience the most innovative and modern range of inflatable catamaran sport boats on the market. Takacat LX Series boats are versatile, portable, and cost effective and provide the rugged capability to handle whatever weather and water conditions your expedition throws at you.

Explore the activity categories below to find the perfect boat for your next adventure.

RV & Camping

Portability and versatility are top of mind for the RV lifestyle. Takacat LX is the perfect portable boat for life on the road!

Learn More >

Search & Rescue

Be ready when it counts. Quick assembly, dependability and lightweight portability allows Takacat to go where it's needed most.

Memories are made on the water. Leave the tech at home and spend a day cruising, picnicking, swimming and exploring.

Marine Research

The rugged versatility and lightweight portability of Takacat combine for a smooth comfortable ride wherever research calls.

The compact and versatile Takacat is just as ready for provisioning as it is for exploring and snorkeling in secret coves.

Answer the call with the Takacat inflatable hunting boat. All the utility and flexibility of a Jon boat, without the hassle.

Swim, Scuba & Snorkel

Dive anywhere in the world. Signature Takacat portability and an ultra-stable diving platform are ready for any adventure.

Takacat go-anywhere portability gets you out to those honey holes while the fish are biting. Setup is a breeze, even in the backcountry.

2024 T260LX

2024 T300LX

2022 T340LX

2022 T380LX

2024 T420LX

2024 T460LX

Takacat Volume Inflator

Quick Release Wheels

Rod Holders

Standard Seat

Takacat Tow Kit

Takacat Davit Kit

Permatrim Plate

Lift the power and performance of your Takacat’s gas-powered outboard motor with a Permatrim Hydrofoil. The catamaran design with a single, centralized outboard lends itself to ventilation on higher power outboards. This is more prevalent in the shorter models, but can be brought out on any of the Takacat boats.

We have a remedy to this problem by way of another New Zealand product—Permatrim. This foil plate bolts to the cav plate (the little tongue that sticks out over the propeller) and does a good job of fixing cavitation issues. It also helps get the boat on plane quicker and easier, and reduces splashing from the transom when underway. Fitment Guide:

• M3 fits 2.5 HP Outboards (All Modern Makes & Models)
• M4 fits 4 - 6 HP Outboards (All Modern Makes & Models)
• M5 fits 8 - 30 HP Outboards (All Modern Makes & Models)
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Cats On Liveaboard Sailboats - A Complete Guide

Cats are fun, safe, and friendly companions to countless liveaboard sailors. Caring for a cat on a sailboat can also be easy.

Cats can live safely and comfortably aboard sailboats with proper space, ventilation, climate control, and safety precautions. Most cities and marinas allow cats aboard, and they’re easy to care for if you take a few extra measures.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about living aboard a sailboat with a cat (or two). We’ll go over the best breeds for sailboats, essential cat safety measures, indoor and outdoor cats, toys and entertainment, and how to keep your cabin clean.

We sourced the information for this article primarily from the tips of liveaboard cat owners. We also researched cat breeds and behavior, along with which cats are best suited for long-term living aboard a sailboat.

Table of contents

Can You Keep a Cat on a Sailboat?

Yes! Cats are some of the best pets to have aboard sailboats. They generally require less attention in terms of exercise than dogs, and many cats can acclimate easily to living on a sailboat. Cats offer great company, and they’ve been kept on boats and ships for decades.

That said, there are several unique challenges that cat owners face while living aboard a sailboat. We’ll go over the best supplies and strategies soon, but first, we’ll cover the rules and legality of keeping cats in liveaboard sailboats.

Marina Rules and Pet Regulations

The most likely issue you’ll run into is the marina itself. Some marinas that allow liveaboards have strict pet policies. These are instituted primarily for sanitation reasons, and violating the rules can get you kicked out.

Liveaboard slips are hard to come by these days, so it’s best to abide by the marina’s policies. Be sure to contact your chosen marina and make sure you’ll be allowed to keep a cat on board. Some marinas have policies strictly for dogs or outdoor cats, so you may be off the hook.

Local Pet Ordinances

Local ordinances apply in just a few situations. First, some communities set limits on how many pets can occupy a residence. These limits are usually based on square footage, which is where liveaboards usually run into trouble.

For example, a city or county may specify that you can only keep one pet per 100 square feet of interior space. These rules may or may not apply to mobile dwellings (such as RVs and boats), so it’s best to check first. Regardless, most standard cruising sailboats can only comfortably (and hygienically) harbor one or two pets at a time.

How Many Cats Can You Keep on a Sailboat?

This question depends entirely on your cleaning capabilities and the size of your sailboat. A 30-foot sailboat cabin gets awfully cramped with two or three cats aboard, not to mention the litter box problem. Multiple cats using a litter box in a well-sealed fiberglass tube isn’t a good situation.

As a general rule, it’s best to start with one cat regardless of the size of your boat. That way, you can get acclimated to taking care of a cat on a boat before taking on additional pets. For vessels under 40 feet in length, two cats is a reasonable limit.

Benefits of Liveaboard Cats

There are numerous benefits to living aboard a sailboat with a cat! The first and most common benefit is the companionship of having your pet aboard. It can greatly enhance the atmosphere by adding comfort and a real sense of ‘home’ in the very utilitarian environment of a sailboat cabin.

Additionally, cats are a great way to keep pests from occupying your vessel. Many sailors leave the hatches open during the summer, and sailboats are a five-star destination for mice and other disease-riddled rodents. Cats are humanity’s oldest and most effective pest control system.

Cats also provide a great opportunity to bond with other liveaboards. From arranging playdates to sharing common experiences, keeping a cat or two aboard your sailboat is sure to add an extra layer of quality to your experience.

Indoor or Outdoor Cats: Which are Best for Sailboats?

The indoor/outdoor cat debate has raged between homeowners for decades, and the question is even more important to consider as a liveaboard.

The primary issue here is that cats are difficult to keep contained aboard a boat. Sailboats have lots of large openings for people to move in and out of. Hatches and portlights present ample opportunity for cats to ‘escape’ and run off up the dock. Having an outdoor cat somewhat negates the issue, as they’re free to come and go as they please.

Outdoor cats are the easiest to deal with if you like opening up your boat frequently, and it frees up deck space for your cat to relax and exercise in your presence. However, outdoor cats can bring in ticks and fleas, which can rapidly overrun a confined space like a sailboat cabin.

Indoor cats eliminate the tick and flea issue, but you’ll have to keep a much closer eye on them. Some cats naturally won’t stray off the boat, so there’s a possible solution. And yes, it’s entirely possible to keep a cat from escaping a sailboat if some precautions are taken.

Which Cat Breeds are Best for Liveaboard Sailboats?

Believe it or not, there are several cat breeds that are adapted for life on the water. It’s no guarantee that your cat will swim like a Golden Retriever, but many breeds are known for their affinity for water.

The best cat breeds for sailboats are the American Bobtail, the Maine Coon, the Manx, the Japanese Bobtail, the Norwegian Forest Cat, the Turkish Angora, the American Shorthair, the Turkish Van, and most varieties of Bengal cats.

How to ‘Cat-Proof’ Your Sailboat

Cat-proofing your sailboat is essential if you’re planning to have one aboard. Cat-proofing refers to steps you should take to protect your cat from getting into areas where it shouldn’t be.

First, make sure to seal off any open access to the bilge. Sailboat bilges are often wet, unsanitary, and confined—which is just asking for trouble. Additionally, make sure your cat can’t get into the engine compartment or anywhere fuel and oil are stored.

Make sure to enclose access to electrical panels and wiring, as cats are known to chew up or destroy essential wiring and systems. Also, they can give themselves an unpleasant shock from rubbing against or biting into the wrong wires.

All other spaces on your sailboat should be safe for cats, as long as they’re accessible and open. Make sure to keep cupboards closed, and consider adding netting over deep cubbies to prevent your cat from getting stuck or trapped behind a panel or bulkhead.

Liveaboard Cat Safety

Keeping your cat safe aboard your sailboat can be easy. The main concerns are temperature, water, and the environment. Below, we’ll go over how to keep your pet safe and comfortable in the unique environment of a liveaboard sailboat.

Can Cats Swim?

Many cats can swim to some extent, but they usually don’t like it. Any cat owner who’s tried to give their cat a bath can attest to this fact. However, cats can be acclimated to the water with some patience and routine practice.

Lifejackets for Cats

It’s a good idea to spend time in the water with your cat, as you want to be sure it can swim if it falls overboard. Using a specialized cat life jacket is a great way to start. These lifejackets are also useful in an emergency.

Leashes and Harnesses

Having a leash and a good cat harness is a great way to safely let your cat enjoy the deck space of a sailboat. Many liveaboards attach a leash to the deck rail or a stay wire. A leash and harness essentially double the amount of space your cat has to hang out.

If it’s long enough, it’ll allow your cat to explore and hang out on the deck without running away. Just be sure to keep it untangled from lines and rigging. Don’t attach a leash to a collar, as it can be hazardous if your cat tries to jump off the boat or gets snagged in the rigging.

You can also incorporate a lifejacket into a leash system, which is especially helpful when making an offshore passage or getting underway. It’s a great and inexpensive upgrade for you and your cat.

Climate and Temperature

When it comes to temperature, the same rules that apply to cars also apply to sailboats. Never let your boat get too hot with your cat inside. Make sure the vessel is well ventilated, heated, and air-conditioned if possible. Sailboat cabins can get extremely hot quite fast. Remember, if you’re sweating, your cat could be overheating much worse.

Cats on Sailboats: Sanitation

Nobody likes to think about sanitation, but it’ll be the only thing on your mind if your boat isn’t cat-friendly. Small spaces can be soiled rapidly, especially with an animal onboard. However, you don’t have to resign yourself to a dirty space when you have a liveaboard cat.

Litter and Litter Boxes

Choosing the right litter and litter box is essential to maintaining a clean and disease-free sailboat cabin for you and your cat. Cat waste is noxious and must be contained effectively.

Don’t skimp on litter quality! Deodorants in cheap litter only mask the smell for a short time (if at all), so it’s best to find a product with odor-killing abilities. The best way to do that is to purchase high-quality anti-odor cat litter (the pricey stuff) and a partially-enclosed litter box.  

Food and Water

Food and water are pretty self-explanatory aboard a sailboat, but it requires spatial consideration. You can still feed your high-quality cat food as long as there’s enough room aboard to store sufficient supplies. Additionally, you’ll need an anti-spill water bowl to prevent your floating home from rolling and spilling water everywhere.

Hair Control

Most cats shed, and cat hair isn’t the best addition to your upholstery. Thankfully, cat hair and other allergens can be controlled effectively with proper ventilation and cleaning tools. A simple dustbuster is sufficient for cleaning furniture and scooping up stray chunks of litter.

Ventilation

Keep that air moving! Cats need fresh air, and so do humans who live in confined spaces with cats. It’s easy to ensure your sailboat has adequate ventilation. Simply install a few solar-powered deck vents and crack a porthole. Additional passive ventilation (like a wind scoop) can be a lifesaver on hot and stagnant days.

Waste Disposal

You’ll probably have to clean the litter box about twice as often when living aboard a sailboat. The most important thing to remember is to get the waste off the boat as soon as possible.

Avoid flushing it down the toilet, as litter can expand and ruin pipes and septic tanks. Instead, bag it and take it to the marina dumpster. If you perform this task once every day or two, you’ll be in great shape.

Cat Toys for Liveaboard Sailboats

Keeping your cat entertained is pretty simple on a sailboat. Most liveaboard cat owners have a wide array of typical small cat toys. You could let your cat scratch up the furniture freely, though it’s better to find a place to add (or build) a scratching post.

Some sailors turn the bottom of a wooden bulkhead into a scratching post by stapling a sheet of thick cat carpet around the base. Other possible scratching post locations include the base of the mast, the centerboard trunk (if you have one), and the base of a table.

Related Articles

Daniel Wade

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Cat Rigged Sailboat - Pros and Cons

• Thread starter catalanc
• Start date Nov 18, 2018
• Forums for All Owners
• Ask All Sailors

Hi Guys, I saw a Seaward cat rigged sail boat on Dillon lake a while ago. I sail single-handed most of the time and the lake can be very tricky with shifting wind direction and quickly changing speed. So, the cat sounds kinda interesting to me. Anyone out there have one and/or anyone have pros and cons of a cat rigged vs. a sloop rigged.  

catalanc said: Hi Guys, I saw a Seaward cat rigged sail boat on Dillon lake a while ago. I sail single-handed most of the time and the lake can be very tricky with shifting wind direction and quickly changing speed. So, the cat sounds kinda interesting to me. Anyone out there have one and/or anyone have pros and cons of a cat rigged vs. a sloop rigged. Click to expand

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John

Since you are sailing Dillon Lake, I am guessing you saw one of the Sage boats made in Golden, CO. https://sagemarineblog.wordpress.com/2016/08/11/sailing-a-sage-15-cat/  

JohnShannon

Well a cat boat is super easy to sail. You only have 4 or 5 lines on the entire boat. Tacking is super easy. I bet one large sail is cheaper than a bunch of smaller sails. Performance wise? I expect a sloop outsails it, but I am not sure the difference is so dramatic. Most cat boats are relatively heavy and not exactly modern keel/rudder setups, and a little slow. Wyliecat 30 is light and modern underbody and is fast. For lake sailing and single handing I think a catboat is a good choice.  

A single mast cat rigged boat sails better than a sloop or a cutter under jib or main alone, but not better than either under proper sail. So, if you're not looking for sailing performance, but the ease of sailing instead, a catboat may well be a good choice.  

Hey, AFAIK, The pros and cons: Pros of a catboat: - Shallow draft - Easy to sail - just one sail, tack by just turning the wheel - tiller - Fast downwind with the large sail Cons of a catboat -Pointing ability - can't point high, don't go upwind well Barry  

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What’s in a Rig? Cat Rig

By: Pat Reynolds Sailboat Rigs , Sailboats

What’s in a Rig Series # 7 – The Cat Rig

Typically speaking, a cat rig is a single mast situated well forward, near the bow, which carries a large single sail and has no standing rigging, sometimes referred to as “unstayed.” An Optimist, Laser or Sabot are common (smaller) examples of a cat rig, but many bigger boats utilize the set-up.

As we’ve established in other What’s in a Rig articles, rig choice is always subjective. Most folks go for the popular Marconi (or Bermuda) sloop rig, but others like to be a bit different and work with less standard arrangements. The thinking behind choosing a cat rig as apposed to a yawl for instance, is probably rooted in more practicality than romance. Take it east yawl sailors, we know we know, they are more stable, and have advantages for long range cruising. Maybe, but we also know you like the way they look! Cat rigs, on the other hand, are truly simple to sail and manage. With one large sail and no rigging, a cat rig is up and running in moments and they can be single-handed quite easily. There is also considerable savings not having to maintain, tune or replace expensive rigs. And yet another benefit of the cat rig design on bigger boats is the amount of salon space they deliver. With a mast placed so far forward, the cabins are often very roomy.

So what’s the downside? Well, you’ve heard this tune before: upwind performance. There’s a reason why the common sloop rig is so incredibly popular. Some may say it’s because racing has such a powerful influence on the market, but the truth probably more accurately revolves around the fact that sloops are simple to sail and just go upwind so very well. There are modern cat rig designs like Wylie boats that have innovations (the wishbone boom) that address the upwind limitation, but most classic cat rigs suffer in the upwind department. However they do not suffer if fast efficient tacking and comfortable downwind running is your bag. Tacking a cat boat is basically one quick turn through the wind and it all pretty much happens for you.

Cat rigs are simple, maneuverable, efficient and economical. They’re especially suited for short-handed sailing and downwind passages. And a catboat sailor is probably someone who doesn’t mind traveling on a less trodden path. If you plan on a long downwind journey alone or with one other, take a look at some catboats – might just fit the bill.

What's in a Rig Series:

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Sailing With A Cat Onboard – Complete Guide

Everything you need to know to sail with a cat and help your furry feline safely and comfortably adapt to life on a sailboat

Cats are one of the most adorable and affectionate pets to have as a companion at home. Well, that may vary from one cat to another. But once you get attached to a cat, there is no turning back!

It follows you everywhere you go, even when you go sailing during the weekend. Most people feel it is dangerous to take a cat sailing on a boat, but if you set the right conditions for the cat, it is pretty comfortable having one onboard.

Getting to sail the waters with your beloved cat is what most cat lovers dream of doing. They can live safely and comfortably on sailboats if you ensure all safety measures are taken. What are the measures? Together with Zeboats , the leader in online used boat sales, we have make ready for you the main.

Can Cats Adapt To Life On Sailboats?

Cats can easily adapt to life on sailboats and do not require much attention regarding exercise. Cats do not need much space to lead a healthy life. They offer excellent company, especially if you are sailing alone.

The cat can be a source of emotional support when you sometimes feel under the weather. Humans have kept them on ships and boats for decades, but there are specific obligations you need to meet to keep one on your boat.

Here are some essential safety measures you should take care of before inviting your furry friend onboard.

Safety Measures For Cats On Sailboats

It would be a stupid mistake to make if something untoward were to happen to your cat because you did not invest your time in thinking about your cat’s safety on a boat.

Taking care of the small details can make all the difference in determining your cat’s safety.

Purchase a Life Vest When you take your pet cat outside for a walk, you put the harness on them before you head out. This prevents the cat from wandering away and coming across other animals in the park.

Similarly, getting your cat a life jacket to wear on a boat is essential. It will help them stay afloat if they fall off the boat. It is unlikely to happen, but one can never take the chance with a cat’s curiosity when they see the open water.

They can go to the boat’s edge and be mesmerized, not knowing that rough turbulence can send them to the water. You can look for life jackets for cats online, and if you do not find one, you can always purchase a life jacket that people buy for puppies.

Take Your Cat Swimming Most animals can swim naturally, but cats can take some time to be comfortable in the water. Take your cat for a swim in shallow, warm waters before you transition to the boating life.

It is essential to understand your cat’s level of ability to swim, especially with a life jacket on. They need to get used to the idea of swimming with the help of the life vest since it will make them float.

While making your cat test the waters, stay within a close distance to ensure that the cat does not overexert itself and exhaust all its energy.

Install Rope Ladders There are some cats that love to swim as much as they do walking on land. If your cat is also one of those swimmers, it will serve you well to keep a rope tied into knots or a net hanging from the side of the boat.

Wooden ladders will also work fine, but they can use their sharp nails to hang on to the rope better. Whenever your cat wants to return to the boat after a soothing swim, it can latch on to the rope or net and climb back up easily.

Metal ladders should be the last option for your cat, as they can be slippery sometimes. Your priority should be setting up a rope ladder or a net, which the cat can easily scale.

Setting up a Litter Box You need to set up a litter box on the boat’s deck so the cat can go about its business whenever necessary. After defecating and peeing, cats tend to cover them up since they are very clean-oriented animals.

Ensure that you secure the litter box on some support system, so it does not shake or move around when the cat is doing its business. They cannot relieve themselves properly if the litter box keeps moving about.

The best way to ensure that the cat’s poop does not fly around and dirty the boat is to buy an enclosed box. This will help you avoid always having to clean the deck or the cabin.

What To Pack For Your Cat Before Sailing Out To Sea

There are various essentials you need to pack for your cat before sailing out on your boat. Since you cannot expect to buy provisions for your cat on the sea, you must stock up so that you do not face any issues later on.

Let us looks at some of the necessary provisions required for your cat.

Cat Feed Ensure that you pack the required quantity of cat food when you plan to go on a boating adventure with your cat. Always carry a little more than what your cat normally in case the boat breaks down temporarily.

Medication Motion sickness is common for cats or other animals when they go to the sea. It is important to carry medication for motion sickness in case your cat feels nauseous constantly.

However, the best way to relieve your cat of motion sickness is to take it to the deck to get some fresh air. That usually does the trick. If it continues for too long, consider feeding the medication or returning to land.

Carry Proper Documentation It is important to carry your cat’s passport if you are crossing international boundaries or if you are made to prove that you are the cat’s owner.

Overall, it is important to make your cat feel safe at sea; in that process, you will create a better bond that nothing can break.

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MiniCat 420

Performs as good as it looks.

The MiniCat 420 is our best selling MiniCat model. It fits a wide range of functionality with the ability to mount an outboard and a total weight capacity of 992 pounds! This is the perfect family sailor. Easy enough for a few kids to manage, but turns into a rocket ship when put into capable hands. The MiniCat 420 is the best value in sailing. Period. It will only fly a hull when you want it to and will ghost along efficiently in the lightest of air.

The MiniCat 420 comes in 5 different trim levels: Instinct, Emotion, Evoque, Laura Dekker Edition, and the Red Beard Exclusive Carbon model. All 420 models include a continuous line jib furler. You can learn more about each trim level below.

Setup is easy!  Click here to watch the full MiniCat 420 setup video.

The Instinct is the base model of the 420. The Instinct has a boom-less mainsail but does not utilize a dedicated forestay or allow for the addition of a gennaker. We recommend buying the higher 420 trim levels due to the lack of dedicated forestay on the Instinct.

The Emotion is a great boat at a great price. You have an aluminum bowsprit, boom, and an aluminum. The Emotion uses a mostly mono-film mainsail and a dacron jib.

The Evoque is the carbon fiber version of the Emotion, the boom, bowsprit, and rudder are all carbon fiber. This saves a few pounds and the boat gets a color scheme change. The mainsail uses a reinforced laminated film and dacron with a dacron jib.

The Laura Dekker edition has an awesome color scheme over a dacron jib and a poly-x racing mainsail. The Laura Dekker also boasts a traveler and all the carbon fiber bits from the Evoque.

The 420 Carbon is an Evoque but instead of an aluminum mast, we have replaced it with an ultra-lightweight carbon fiber mast. We have also added a traveler to bring this boat up to the highest performance possible.

Not the right sailboat for you? Let’s find your perfect boat.

Minicat 420 innovations.

The MiniCat 420 is the most popular boat in the MiniCat lineup. It is versatile as a sporty solo sailor or as a fun and safe family daysailor. With the ability to add an outboard and a furling large Code 0 sail, this boat can check all of the boxes, all while still only taking 30-40 minutes to assemble and fits conveniently into two bags!

MiniCat 420 Features & Benefits

The MiniCat 420 is a boat that combines premium and lightweight materials that allow you to spend time on the water without the need for a slip or trailer! This travel ready sailboat is perfect for fast solo sailing as well a safe and family friendly daysailer.

Windowed Sails

The jib and main sails on the MiniCat boats all have windows in them. This allows you to be more aware of your surroundings. Even with the colorful sails, sometimes other boaters are not paying attention. These windows allow you to see 360° and be responsive to your surroundings.

Continuous Line Roller Furling Jib

All MiniCat 420 models are equipped with a continuous line roller furler. This allows you to put away the jib sail, on either tack without any worry or possibility of a snag, clog, or line override that the single-line furlers are notorious for. You can also store your jib furled (folded in half) to make boat set-up and take-down quicker and easier.

Fully Battened Square-top Mainsail

The square-top mainsail provides this beachcat with more than enough power to have a fun day on the water. Fully battened for superior sail shape, even in light winds. The 420 can easily reach speeds up to 12 knots and some have even pushed their boat faster than 16 knots!

Heytex 5509 PVC

All MiniCats, including the MiniCat 420, have hulls made in Germany with Heytex 5509 PVC. This is top shelf PVC and has a longer life expectancy than typical boat PVC. This boat fabric is no different than other PVC with regards to repair. It is easily repairable by an amateur, so no more expensive boat yard repair bills!

Powder Coated Lightweight Frame

MiniCats are built with lightweight aluminum frames that have been powder coated using techniques that are time tested and durable. The rugged, long-lasting frame uses the lightweight and durable materials for both transport ease and sailing performance.

Ergonomic Trampoline

The MiniCat 420 has a feature rich trampoline, complete with plenty of places to hold on with reinforced handles in each corner. There are also pockets for the halyards and even a place to clip drybags in a snag free pouch. There is a hiking strap long enough for at least 2 pairs of feet and bungee lacing at the base of the mast for stowing larger gear. There are also diagonal webbed straps sewn on the trampoline to provide extra grip.

Low Aspect Ratio Keels

The MiniCat 420 is equipped with long shallow keels under each hull which contribute to the MiniCat’s ease of use and great sailing characteristics. The keels allow the 420 to be sailed in very shallow waters. You need only fly a hull when you want; it is very easy to prevent capsizes thanks to these keels that resist rotation of the hulls. The keels are set aft of the mast, which allows the 420 to tack much quicker than other hard hulled catamarans.

Small Pack-down for Easy Storage and Transport

The MiniCat 420 packs away into two easy-to-manage bags. These bags are well-organized to keep things from getting damaged in storage. The MiniCat bags and packaway are better than other portable boats on the market. These bags can be stored under your bed, in a closet or checked as luggage on an airplane. Call your airline for a quote on oversized luggage fees, they can vary by airline. Wheeled storage bags are easy to transport and move around without heavy lifting.

Additional Equipment

MiniCat has a comprehensive catalog of accessories for their boats. From front trampolines to motor mounts and even a gennaker, there is a way to spice up your next adventure!

MiniCat 420 Technical Specifications

Packing & Assembly Specifications

MiniCat Featured Accessories

Be ready for anything with our full line of accessories.

Front Trampoline for All MiniCat Sailboats

This trampoline can support up to 44 lbs of cargo and supplies, perfect for a cooler and fishing gear!

Be sure you are selecting the trampoline for your model MiniCat.

Code 0 Sail for MiniCat 420

One (1) Screecher with a furler for a MiniCat 420. This is a high quality with a cut similar to a traditional Code 0 sail. It is a little flatter than the old gennaker which allows for better reaching. This sail is on a continuous line furler which makes this sail very simple to operate and stow.

The sail area for the 420 version is 85 ft² (7.2 m²).

Deluxe Inflator Pump

This fully automatic 15.7 CFM 2 stage inflation pump is perfect for your MiniCat, Happy Cat, ROWonAIR or Takacat boat! This is the big brother to the Speedy Inflation Pump, adding more precise accuracy and a built in pressure gauge. 

Stops automatically when full pressure is reached:   Simply set the dial for the pressure required, and the pump automatically stops when your pre-selected pressure is reached.

Includes a built-in precision pressure gauge, a 5'7" flexible tube and 9'10" power cord with alligator clips to attach to 12V battery power source (we use a jump box for starting cars). Complete with a handy shoulder bag and multi-diameter adapter set to fit a wide range of inflatables. Max amp draw of 20A @12V. Maximum air pressure of 14.5psi (1 BAR)

Specifications

• Voltage:   12V DC
• Max. Pressure:   14.5psi (1 BAR)
• Power Connection:   Alligator clips for 12V car battery
• Power Cord:   9'10'
• Amperage:   20A

Wheel Bag Upgrade for MiniCat 420 and 460

Pressure Gauge

Telescopic Paddle

FAST Lacing Upgrade Kit for MiniCat 420

Inflatable Seats MiniCat 420 and 460

Minicat Pintop Mainsail

Transport Trolley Wheels for MiniCat Sailboats

Harken 40mm Carbo Block

Wind Vane for MiniCat Sailboats

Trapeze Kit MiniCat Sailboats

Neoprene Shroud Covers

Protective Rudder Cover

MiniCat Float Support

MiniCat 420 Carbon Mast Upgrade

Spare MiniCat 420 Boat Bag

Outboard Mount for MiniCat 420

Folding Swim Ladder

MiniCat Bag

Upgrade to Dyneema Shrouds MiniCat 420

Upgrade to Carbon Tiller Extension for MiniCat 420

Upgrade to Telescopic Tiller Extension for MiniCat 420

Mast Float for MiniCat 420 Instinct Sailboats

Mast Float for MiniCat 420 All Models (excl. Instinct) Sailboats

UV Protective Cover for MiniCat 420 Sailboats

ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus Long Shaft

Three reasons you need epropulsion for your boat: clean, easy, quiet..

With a seamlessly attachable lithium battery and outstanding efficiency, the Spirit 1.0 Plus is a great alternative to rowing or a noisy gas outboard. The Spirit 1.0 Plus can do everything a 3 HP outboard motor can, but is lighter, cleaner, quieter, and more convenient.

Easily push a dinghy to and from shore or us it to reliably and efficiently dock small to medium racing sailboats. When needed, the large prop provides more low RPM thrust than its equivalent gas outboard. 

ePropulsion has mastered the direct drive motor. The only noise this motor makes is the sound of the boat's hull passing through the water, it is literally quieter than a whisper (no high pitched whine like other motors on the market).

Note: Because many customers choose to purchase multiple batteries, the Spirit 1.0 Plus does not include a battery pack. Be sure to add one or more to your cart below.

Package Includes:

ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus Long Shaft, integrated tiller, on-board computer, GPS-based range calculation, Motor Mount, and 2x emergency magnetic stop key.

ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Battery

Lightweight - Weighing only 19 pounds, anyone can carry and install this battery.

Efficient - On one charge you can easily do 22+ miles at almost 5 mph!

Maintenance Free - Sealed, watertight construction ensures never need to do anything but charge the battery for the life of your motor!

Floats - If you accidentally drop this pricey e-tank, no worries, it floats!

Powerful - Holds 1275Wh of battery capacity.

Buy more than one battery to extend your cruising range.

Resources & Support

We bought a Carbon 420 in Nov 2020, and have sailed it almost every week since then, sometimes twice a week! Alex is great to work with, answers every question, and is extremely knowledgeable. He truly loves the sport!

One of the first things we did was intentionally capsize it to see how hard it was to right... Almost too easy! It's super easy for 1 person to right. And the carbon mast is super light and easy to step. So glad we got the carbon version!

We find that it is highly stable, but very nimble. And it can really fly! We love that combination. It's fun and easy!

Some accessories we highly recommend:

Flextail pump. Cuts inflation time tremendously. And deflates fast to make storage really easy.

Upgraded shackles. Huge difference in knowing they are secure, easy to check, and so easy to turn. Worth it!

Front trampoline.

Rope ladder.

Outboard attachment.

Trolley wheels. Because we added weight with an electric motor, we made a telescoping extension that hooks over the trolley axle. Now we launch and retrieve easily even at a ramp. The boat just floats on and off the trolley. Super easy and fast!

Overall, we highly recommend the Carbon 420. It's perfect for us. We spend wonderful days on the water, sailing, exploring, snorkeling, and just loving the sound of water against the boat. And we definitely recommend Red Beard Sailing... Alex has the best service and the best prices!

So happy with this purchase four seasons in. It’s a serious boat with all the lines and controls exactly where you want them. The light weight makes it easy to go in the lightest wind, and the rugged engineering feels solid even when it’s up on one pontoon in 20 knots. One person can easily get it righted if you manage to flip it (which doesn’t happen often).

Alex has provided great service the whole way. I haven’t needed much, but he is responsive and knowledgeable. I have patched a pontoon, gotten some rigging replicated at West Marine, and attached a trolling motor to tool around when there’s no wind. All of that has been easy enough, and I see years of great sailing ahead of me in my Minicat 420.

Can’t say enough positive things about the boat and Red Beard.

I bought my Minicat 420 Laura Dekker edition from Alex in fall 2018. I didn't get it onto the water until summer of 2019, when I took it up north for two weeks of lake sailing. What a blast we had with this boat! The Minicat was much more fun to sail than I hoped, and more stable and easy to handle in unpredictable, gusty lake winds than I expected - we took it out almost every day, in wind that ranged from 6 to 22 kts. While the Sunfish sailors capsized around us we just zoomed across the lake, gleefully zipping through every unpredictable puff.

I've never sailed a cat before, only keelboats and cruisers, but tacking was straightforward and no hiking out was necessary even in big gusts (with two of us on the boat). Yet despite the stability the Minicat is a fast and fun sail. I would highly recommend it as a good boat for beginners - responsive enough to learn quickly but stable enough to not throw you in the water for every misstep.

The only drawback is assembly time - although you'll really appreciate how well-designed it is while putting it together! Even with Alex's lesson (wonderful and much needed) on how to assemble the boat our first solo attempt took 2 hours. It may take us many outings us to get the advertised 45 minute assembly time. So for me, the Minicat is going to be more a 'camping/vacation' trip boat than a 'go solo sailing for the day' boat. But that's what I really wanted it for - so I am perfectly okay with that.

I am a novice sailor, but a former wind-surfer...so I appreciate a bit of adrenaline. I love the MiniCat 420 for its stability, maneuverability, versatility, and of course portability. It sails great in light-winds, but also offers the potential for performance sailing in higher and more challenging conditions. I sail in and among the laser class at my local marina/yacht club, and the MiniCat is a definite head-turner against those starchier while sail dinghies. It also holds its own, or outperforms, depending on who is at the till. I have sailed my local lakes, and also off-shore in protected waters in Maine. It is simply a brilliant boat! Alex at Red Beard Sailing helped me set the boat up the first time (very helpful), and customer service has been first rate ever since. Highly recommend the boat and the company.

For a long time I have dreamed to own a sailboat, but don't have the space to have a towable one. Storage and transport were major concerns since I live an hour and a half from the nearest sailable lake. I learned about Minicat and was completely amazed about its features. Alex did a good job taking me and my family for a demo sail and the deal was closed the same day. Now we own a 420 emotion and it is our dream turned into reality. For novices like us, it took just a couple of hours on the water to learn by ourselves how to take the boat to where we want to go, it is very stable, fun and easy to sail. The service at Red Beard Sailing is not limited to the sale, we know we can count on them for whatever we need, five stars for sure!

MiniCat Sailboat Warranty MiniCat offers a 24-month warranty on the entire sailboat and a 7-year warranty on the hull skin material. These warranties cover material and workmanship defects that affect the performance of the boat. To register your boat, click here. To file a claim or for assistance with your MiniCat, please email us at [email protected] or give us a call at 410-705-5026.

MiniCat Full Line Sales Brochure MiniCat 420 Instinct Owner's Manual MiniCat 420 Emotion Owner's Manual MiniCat 420 Evoque Owner's Manual MiniCat 420 Laura Dekker Owner's Manual MiniCat 420 Carbon Owner's Manual

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Cat on a Boat 101: How to Sail and Live Aboard with Cats

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also earn from other affiliate websites. See our full disclaimer .

At first glance, having a cat on a liveaboard boat may seem like a lot of work and maybe not even possible. However, with patience and preparation having a cat on board can be a wonderful experience for both you and your feline first mate.

We’ll help you get started with prepping your boat for your cat’s arrival, finding gear you might need for your new liveaboard kitty, and how to keep your cat safe and healthy on board.

Getting Started with Your Boat Cat

Are you wondering if you can take a cat on a boat? I’m happy to report it is possible to turn your everyday house cat into a full-blown adventurous sailing cat.

Some kitties may take to boat life quicker than others, but eventually, most cats can become happy liveaboard boat cats with the right approach.

Introducing Your Cat to the Boat

We introduced our cat to our 38-foot sailing catamaran by having short visits (2-4 hours) while the boat was at the dock. We would work on the boat, and Augustus would come along and hang out. Once we moved onboard, he already felt comfortable in the space.

We would occasionally run the engines and let him get used to the sound. When we finally left the dock, he was still getting used to the engines and would find a spot down in the V-berth to hide. The more we traveled, the more comfortable Augustus became. He eventually started coming up on the bridgedeck, sitting in the windows and sometimes popping into the cockpit in calm seas.

No matter how accustomed your cat becomes to the boat, everyone is uncomfortable in rough conditions. Allow your cat some space since they might feel queasy.

Cat Proofing Your Boat

Cats are notably mischievous. If you don’t keep your wits about you, this can be a problem on a boat!

Any time we open a hole under a settee or open up a wall, Augustus is right there to see what’s happening.

Augustus has been stuck in the bilge for the better part of a day AND locked in a berth all night because the door swung closed. One time he even climbed through the settee in the bridgedeck and managed to pop out in an access hole under the bathroom sink in the starboard hull. The moral of the story – if you need to run a wire, get a cat!

But seriously – with a cat aboard, don’t leave any hole accessible. No matter how small, no matter how short a period.

Cats and Seasickness

Many cats are like humans. They feel sick for the first day or so on the water, and then they start to feel better. 

Signs of seasickness in cats: 

• licking lips a lot
• uneasy demeanor

Fresh air is as essential to them as it is to us. Getting them in the cockpit might help, but don’t push it if they are scared. 

Most cats will find a spot to ride out the queasy feeling.

You can get anti-nausea medications from a vet for severe circumstances as a last resort.

Cruising with a Cat in Hot Climates

A question we often get is how do you keep your cat cool when sailing in hot climates.

Here are a few tips to keep your cat cool on hot days.

• wet bottom of paws, nose, and ears if the cat becomes overheated
• use wind scoops for airflow and leave hatches open with screens in to keep your cat inside but the air moving (we often use this setup on anchor when we go to shore)

Cat Food On Board

If you’re cruising on your boat, you’ll probably want to stock up on cat food just as you would other essential food items.

When we buy cat food, we get an 18-pound bag of dry food along with many cases of wet food.

To keep your cat’s dry food fresh, it must be in a sealed container. You don’t want moisture or any critters getting into that precious kitty food supply. Also, you don’t want your cat turning up their nose at stale kitty food halfway through the supply.

We use the Vault pet food storage container to keep cat food fresh and love it!

We also use a smaller container such as this one for daily feedings, so we aren’t constantly opening the long-term food storage container. This method helps keep the cat’s food freshest. We have never had any contamination with this system.

You might also want to consider a kitty food mat to ensure food and water bowls stay in place when underway. We like this mat from CatGuru . This works on a catamaran, but you might need to store the bowls when underway on a monohull.

Suggested Cat Food Products

Cat food and storage products we love for living on a boat.

PRO TIP: We like Chewy.com for ordering pet food on the go in the US. They offer 1-3 day shipping on orders over $50. You can order a few days ahead and have it shipped to a marina along your route.

The litter box.

Managing a litter box is always a complex task, and it is especially challenging in a small space such as a boat.

Boats are usually in motion, don’t always offer an easy way to dispose of waste, and can be very humid.

Here are a few ideas for handling these obstacles.

• Invest in a top entry litter box to contain the litter
• Use a Litter Genie to store cat waste until you can dispose of it (it works just like a diaper genie)
• Find a location for the litter box that will have the least amount of humidity

Choosing a Litter

There doesn’t seem to be a perfect litter choice for cats on a boat. Every option has pros and cons. Below is the litter we use and another popular option from cruisers. Both of these options let you avoid carrying hundreds of pounds of litter around on your boat if you are cruising in remote waters.

• Breeze Cat Litter System – Boat owners seem to really like the Breeze Cat litter box. When the cat does its business, the pee falls through the box onto a pee pad below. The poop is scooped. Because the urine is separated, the litter pellets in the top of the box last a lot longer than the average litter. There are concerns about the price of the pee pads and the litter pellets. We’ve heard of cat owners who have bought 3rd party pads and have found ways to wash and reuse the pellets. There is a ton of information on this system if you search the Gatos Del Mar Facebook group .
• Pretty Litter – We have been using Pretty Litter for four years now. It’s nice because it lets you know if your cat has any health issues within the urinary tract. This synthetic litter is non-clumping, soaks up pee, and allows you to scoop the poop. It minimizes the amount of waste we add to the Litter Genie since it is non-clumping. However, it works by soaking up urine, which is not great for a humid environment and doesn’t last as long on a boat.

Suggested Cat Litter Products

Durable and long-lasting litter products we love for boat life.

NOTE: Some boat owners toilet train their cats to avoid dealing with a litter box onboard. Training can be a long process that requires patience, but it might be worth the effort, especially if you have a young cat who is eager to learn.

Gear for cats on boats.

Boat and sailing cats need a few more pieces of gear than the average cat. Here are some items to help your kitty stay safe while still enjoying themselves on a boat.

Life Jackets for Cats

So when should your cat wear a life jacket? Short answer – it’s totally up to you.

Watch your cat closely in their first few months aboard. They will be finding their rhythm and testing their limits. This is the time when our cat took his first dip in the ‘drink’ (and he was without his cat life jacket). I would suggest putting the life jacket on your cat more often upfront until your cat becomes more familiar with boat life. Once they start getting their bearings, you can choose to put it on them less.

Can Cats Swim?

Most cats can swim. They just don’t particularly want to. Many cruisers will train their cat to climb a rope on the side of the boat if they fall over. Augustus could easily climb up on the sugar scoop of our catamaran in calm water, and that’s just what he did when he fell in at the dock.

PRO TIP: If your cat does fall in the water, make sure you bathe them. Marina water is especially dirty and can contain diesel fuel and “other things” that might come out of a boat. You don’t want them licking themselves without first getting a bath.

Cat life vest suggestions.

Cat life jackets are pretty hard to come by. Below are a few life vests designed specifically for cats that come highly recommended in the cat owner boating community.

Baltic Maja Pet Buoyancy Aid – A cat-specific life jacket with a smaller neck opening than what you see with most dog-designed jackets. It also has an extra strap underneath for more support.

Lyra Cat FFD (Feline Flotation Device) – A cat-specific life jacket similar to the Baltic but also has a built-in harness for extra comfort. This jacket was designed and tested by a sailing cat owner.

SurferCat Life Jackets – Another life jacket made just for cats. This one is designed by a pro wakeboarder who wanted something for their cat that is very minimal and built with performance and mobility in mind.

Cat Backpack or Carrier

You’ll want a way to transport your furry feline if you are living aboard.

We love our backpack carrier because it makes moving Augustus around in this lifestyle easier.

The backpack offers hands-free carrying on and off the boat. It’s a stable and safe carrier for our cat, whether we have to cab, walk, or bike to a vet or other location.

They even have backpacks that expand for comfort traveling in a vehicle. Search cat backpacks on Amazon here.

Harness and Leash

Harness training your cat is one of the best things you can do to make your and your cat’s new life easier on a boat.

It will allow you the freedom to take your cat for walks at the marina or dinghy them to shore for land time.

Once your cat is harness trained, don’t let your cat on deck or off the boat without a harness. This approach can keep your cat from darting out the door, and they will associate the harness with time outside.

We’ve used many different harnesses over the years. Here are a couple of our favorites: 

PRO TIP: Make sure whatever harness you choose as an adjustable neck for the best fit.

Cat trackers.

A tracking device is another good idea when you have a cat that wanders off the boat in a marina or one that you take ashore.

The longer our stay in a marina, the more comfortable Augustus becomes venturing off the boat. Occasionally, he might slip by us and wander up the dock (or onto another boat) without anyone noticing.

Trackers are great for quickly locating your kitty on the dock or even finding them if they wander away from the marina.

Here are a couple of trackers we have used and our reviews of each.

The Tile Pro is a Bluetooth tracker that is intended to track things like your keys, but we found it was an affordable option that worked well to track our cat. We attached it to the D-ring on the cat’s harness.  The Pro version has a 400-foot range.

• Inexpensive compared to other trackers
• Small and lightweight compared to most trackers
• Water-resistant
• The battery is easily replaced after months of use
• Within range, you can 'ring' the Tile to locate your cat
• Out of the 400-foot range, there is no tracking
• No directional tracking (you get status updates (‘moderate’ or ‘strong’ signal), but you can’t tell in which direction

The Jiobit is a tracking device designed to track pets, children, and/or seniors. This device uses Bluetooth, Wifi, and a required cellular data plan to track the person or pet the most accurately while conserving battery life.

• Track at any distance with the data connection
• Live tracking mode to view cat’s movement in real-time
• Can alert you when your cat leaves a designated area
• Small size compared to other GPS trackers
• Requires a monthly data plan
• Needs charging once a week (on average)
• Live tracking mode will drain the battery quickly
• Data plan will not work outside of the U.S.
• Will scratch easily if you don’t purchase the optional cover/sleeve

PRO TIP: As a backup, we have Augustus microchipped (this is required to check into some countries). We also attach a pet ID tag to his harness with our phone numbers. We have also seen cat owners that have their contact and/or boat information embroidered into the harness. There are shops on ETSY that will do this for you.

Vet & pet health.

Pet care can be a little tricky when you are traveling often. Especially on the water.

Here are a couple of tips to ensure your cat is taken care of.

• Always keep a good account of your cat’s health records. We keep a digital file so we can both easily access them. This way, when we visit a new vet, it’s easy to give them all the information they need.
• If you have pet insurance, make sure you are covered in the area you are traveling.
• Talk to your vet about putting together a kitty first aid kit

Traveling to Different Countries with Your Cat

If you are planning to travel to different countries on your boat, you’ll need to check each country’s requirements for cats.

Many countries will require a health certificate to enter the country. If you are going for a health certificate, you need an appointment for just the health certificate. The appointment can’t also be for a checkup or other issue. Most countries will also require a 1-year rabies shot (instead of a 3-year), FVPR, and possibly the feline leukemia vaccine.

Check noonsite.com for details on cat check-in requirements for different countries.

More Resources for Living Aboard with Cats

Luckily, there are quite a few people out there sailing with cats! You can find more information when you know where to look.

• As mentioned earlier, the Facebook group Gatos del Mar has a ton of great information about living on a boat with a cat. You can search this group for answers or ask questions.
• Instagram accounts also have great information. I love following Miss Rigby’s account on Instagram . Rigby is a boat cat that lives aboard with her owners full-time. I’ve messaged them before with sailing cat questions and they were very helpful!
• Adventurecats.org or the book Adventure Cats: Living Nine Lives to the Fullest – this organization has a lot of great info about harness training and traveling with your kitty!

READ NEXT : If you explore by land and water, you might also like the post How to Go RVing with Cats: A Complete Guide .

Final thoughts on boating with cats.

Cats are creatures of habit, but they are also very adaptable. Use the information you’ve gathered and set up a welcoming boat environment for your cat. Have patience and listen to your feline’s responses to their new home.

If you do these things, you and your cat can have some incredible experiences together on the water!

Want to learn more about what it’s like cruising on a boat?

View our guide to read more on life on a boat and what to expect living on the water.

Like this post? Save it on Pinterest for later.

Morgan, the founder of The Home That Roams, has been living nomadically for over five years. She began her journey traveling across the U.S. in a motorhome and cruising on a liveaboard sailing catamaran. Currently, she lives full-time in a travel trailer, sharing resources on RV living and boat life to help others downsize their lives and thrive in an alternative lifestyle.

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Herreshoff Cat Ketch 31

This handsome little cruiser sails like a dream, but owners report problems ranging from the foam-cored deck to deck hardware without backing plates..

The short-lived Cat Ketch Corporation built some unique cruising auxiliaries. They were all called Herreshoffs after their designer, Halsey Herreshoff. Built between about 1982 and 1986, they grew out of the collaboration between the companys founder, third generation boatbuilder John Newton, and Herreshoff (who likewise was the third generation in his family to enter the same profession.) Newton had been building Grand Banks trawlers in Hong Kong; Herreshoff had already designed a number of production boats. Newton had set up a Cayman Island-based corporation to build in Honduras and was looking for boats that were simple yet rewarding to sail-no winches, no headsails! He favored capabilities over amenities, simplicity over advanced technology. When it came to price he wanted to be more than competitive in the American market.

The design brief he presented to Herreshoff included:

an underbody as fast as a quarter tonner a large, open interior traditional lines above the water a split sail plan to reduce sail loads a rig that allows quick reefing to 30% of full sail area

Despite the fact that its hard to find a sailboat of any kind that ISNT faster than a 1970s vintage quarter tonner, the guidelines Newton laid down were, in large measure, met. The boats, even today, are handsome, commodious and simple to sail. A retired naval architect told us he bought a boat a year for years until he met the H-31. She is everything I ever wanted. She is IT for me. Ive found the boat of my dreams, he said.

About 100 H-31s were built, Herreshoff recalled. The company also produced an H-27, H-38 and an H-45, but the H-31 outsold them all.

We had plans for even bigger boats, said Herreshoff, but they never got built.

Originally, the boats (including almost half of the H-31s) were cold-molded of mahogany plies with wooden spars. The rest were made of fiberglass cored with Airex. (On some, the house and deck had Klegecell coring to resist heat deformation.). Almost all of the fiberglass boats had fiberglass/carbon fiber spars.

After moving from one coast of Honduras to the other and finally shipping its molds to Texas for a brief last stand with the Richard Black-designed Sparhawk 36 and an H-28, the Cat Ketch Corporation went out of business. That was about 10 years ago, and the boats are a bit hard to find. Herreshoff is the last, best link with these boats. He has, in fact, received several as donations to the Herreshoff Museum in Bristol where he refurbishes and sells them.

At first glance, the boats appear somewhat under-rigged and we feared wed find their accommodations dated and Spartan. After recently delivering an H-31 from Bristol, Rhode Island to north of Cape Cod, however, we have to admit we were wrong on both counts.

The Design Early in the 70s, Halsey Herreshoff designed the hull for the Freedom 40, the boat that Garry Hoyt conceived and marketed, and which was largely responsible for the resurgent interest in cat ketches. There is a learning curve, even for a Herreshoff, in developing a relatively untried hull form, and comparing the Freedom 40 to the boats done for Cat Ketch is one way of tracing that progression.

Both the Freedom 40 and the H-31 have hollow bows. Characteristic of Herreshoff boats all of the way back to Captain Nat, a hollow bow lets the forefoot be fine for a sharp entry angle, while above the waterline the forebody swells abruptly to gain volume enough to dampen pitching. The flaring shape of the forequarters not only provides reserve buoyancy (which helps deal with the weight of the spar stepped well forward), it also helps control spray and makes it easier for the boat to punch through chop. And it looks great. The H-31 has more of a hollow bow than the Freedom 40.

A centerboarder, the Freedom 40 needed a high ballast/displacement ratio and generous beam for her length to give her stability. The H-31, thanks to the righting moment gained by hanging 3,350 pounds of external lead on her keel, can enjoy a slimmer sailing shape. The Freedom 40s displacement/length (D/L) ratio is an admirable 208, but the H-31 weighs in with a sprightlier 175.

Halsey Herreshoff is unclear about dates or specifics, but he confirms what printed sail plans show, that the total working sail area of his H-31 grew from an original 403 sq. ft. to a subsequent 466 sq. ft. At the same time, the displacement shrunk from 8,640 pounds to 7,560 pounds. Adding sail and reducing weight are legitimate ways to improve performance. In its original configuration (small sail plan/high displacement) the H-31s sail area/displacement ratio (SA/D) was an unremarkable 15.5, well below even the Freedom 40s 16.7. Given the changes (bigger sail plan/lighter displacement) the boats SA/D jumps to 19. It would be logical if these changes reflected the move from cold-molding to cored fiberglass construction, but both sets of figures refer to construction: fiberglass/Airex core. What is clear, however, is that there are differing generations of H-31 design and generic design information doesn’t necessarily fit them all.

The boat has a long waterline (28′) and gains additional sailing length from a rudder that protrudes nearly a foot aft of the transom. More critical to her sailing performance, however, is her clean underbody sculpted from sectional shapes that afford the maximum in displacement for the minimum in wetted surface. While Halsey didnt begin with a half-model whittled and fondled into shape the way that Captain Nat used to, he might as well have. It doesn’t have to take three generations to come up with lines as fair and balanced as the H-31s, but its hard to imagine her simplicity and rightness popping into being overnight.

If there were no draft limitation I would have wanted a deeper fin, the designer said, but by giving her a draft of just 4 feet and by offering lift/drag characteristics that are optimal in the under 7-knot speed range, the long fin that Herreshoff chose makes good sense.

Herreshoff said, The skeg is there primarily to improve tracking, and she sails well, tracking straighter and pointing better than Id dared to hope.

The Rig The cat ketch is an ancient and honorable rig. Captain Cook saw canoes and proas rigged with two sails, clawlike in shape. The garvies of Barnegat Bay typically had twin sprit sails fore and aft. The majority of New Haven sharpies from as early as the 1830s were cat ketches. The rig tended to keep cost, complexity and the center of effort low, and that made it a natural for small working boats. But the problems with cat ketches, like those with catboats and cat yawls, tend to get bigger as the boats get bigger. Supporting a mast in the bows is hard to do; unstayed spars are thus almost a necessity. For a long time, no one could build a spar big enough, light enough and tough enough to do the job in a larger boat.

Nathaniel Herreshoff was the first designer known to have rigged yachts (as opposed to workboats) as cat ketches. Starling Burgess experimented early in the 20th century with unstayed rigs and Fritz Fenger, a Cornell-educated designer-yachtsman, is credited with pioneering the modern wishbone rig. According to British design guru Uffa Fox, Captain Nat was using something similar very much earlier. His 25-foot Pelican, which in 1890 Nathaniel Herreshoff called the most scientific sailboat Ive yet designed, was a cat yawl.

When Garry Hoyt was seeking freedom from winches and headsails, Halsey Herreshoff remembers, Id been working some with combining different sections of aluminum tubing into free-standing spars, but a single mast big enough for a 40-footer was worrisome. Then my father (Sidney DeWolf Herreshoff) reminded me of the cat ketches our family had already designed, and we went in that direction.

That direction proved productive. The Freedom 40 surprised a lot of people at Antigua Week and made converts in impressive numbers. Dr. Jerome Milgrams Cascade, a 37′ 6″ racer with a cat ketch rig on stayed spars, came within a whisker of winning the Southern Ocean Racing Conference. From being rarities at the beginning of the 70s, cat ketches became, by late in the decade, something of a fad. Freedom evolved new models, Nonsuch was born, and designers like Walter Scott, Yves-Marie Tanton, Eric Sponberg and Chuck Paine all offered cat ketch designs.

The keys that unlocked that development were engineering and manufacturing advances that made free-standing spars workable, and the refinement and application of the wishbone boom. Newtons Cat Ketch Corp. originally laid up laminated wooden spars that were light and durable. When it took to building fiberglass skins over a wooden mandrel and then sheathing the glass with carbon fiber, the spars were a bit heavier but much stiffer, Herreshoff said.

Most boats used the standard double wishbone boom, but I prefer the half-bone shape for simplicity and looks, he added.

In addition to removing the danger from a head-height solid boom, wishbones and half-bones remove the need for vangs, control twist (thus increasing sail efficiency), make major changes in sail shape easy and reduce mast loading.

Construction Built as long as 18 years ago by a now-defunct company, an H-31 should be suspected of having problems. A survey is always a good idea. With an H-31 its an especially good idea.

When we discussed these boats with well-known author and surveyor Alan Vaitses, he declined to recommend any of the cold-molded boats because the fiberglass that covers the hull to just above the waterline was not mechanically fastened to the wood. On the other hand, the (admittedly small) sample of wooden boat owners that we surveyed said no problem in terms of checking, leaks or delamination.

Herreshoff added, The wooden boats were lighter but less durable, especially in terms of abrasion and impact resistance, he told us. The fiberglass-Airex boats are somewhat stronger but theyre a bit heavier.

The owner of a near-original 1982 wood boat said, I had to reglue the spars when the wood glue that they used originally gave up after 13 years, but otherwise my cold-molded hull and deck have held up well. I like the warmth of an all-wood interior very much.

The fiberglass boats were built with a laminate schedule that came from my experience building production boats, Herreshoff said, describing it as graduated thicknesses getting progressively thinner from the bottom up with a thin layer of mat between roving and cloth.

None of the owners surveyed reported any hull blisters. Bulkheads are foam-fiberglass composites and in the living areas are sheathed with wood veneers. They are robust and are tabbed securely to the hull.

Several owners reported that the Airex core was not replaced with solid glass where through-hull fittings were installed. That should not have happened said Herreshoff. On the boats that have been donated to the Herreshoff Museum, he has borne the expense of pulling through-hulls and replacing the core with solid epoxy through which the fittings were re-installed.

The bolts attaching the skeg to the hull were in tough shape, one owner reported. I replaced them (there were only three) with nine new ones. Rebedded and refastened, the new skeg has been fine.

The rudder assembly, Herreshoff said, consists of an overly strong rudderstock and two hefty gudgeons as well as a bottom attachment between the skeg and rudder. In addition to affording excellent steering leverage and easy visual inspection, the outboard rudder is fitted with teak steps that make it a boarding ladder, a suggestion put forward by L. Francis Herreshoff in his book, The Compleat Cruiser.

The aluminum strips on top of the keel floors were badly pitted where the stainless steel keel bolts came through them, said a Florida owner. And the stanchions have no backing plates. They need either suitable plates to add strength and diminish loosening through use.

There are no mechanical fasteners apparent at the hull/deck joint. Deck and hull are both cored right to the edge. They are chemically bonded and then the corner is glassed, inside and out. The taping is done well-no evident seams, bubbles, or roughness. No owner surveyed reported deck leaks or crazing at the joint. Access to the joint is virtually complete fore and aft by removing the upper strake of the cabin ceiling. It is standard building practice to replace coring with solid glass where hull and deck come together. Reliance on chemical bonding alone has only recently been countenanced by standard-setters like the American Bureau of Shipping. The fact that there are no shroud loads to lift the deck in a boat with unstayed masts may go a long way toward explaining the problem-free history of the H-31 and other boats that Cat Ketch built this way.

Interior The standard layout for the H-31 emphasizes open space with the head and galley aft and a saloon/forecabin area extending forward. A second layout where the head comes between the forecabin and the saloon is better-suited to two-couple cruising. From fiddles and trim to moldings and furniture, wood is a strong point of the Cat Ketches. The availability and affordability of wood and wood workers was one of Newtons prime reasons for building in Honduras. Many owners opted for custom interiors in oak, Caribbean pine or mahogany, but even the standard teak is done with lightness, restraint and care.

On the negative side, the standard galley is cramped by the companionway ladder.

We almost didnt buy the boat for that reason, said an owner who has cruised his H-31 for seven seasons, but we did and weve redone the galley completely to suit us. We took out the oven, installed refrigeration, and use a one-burner Sea Swing as our primary cooker.

My boat came with a bulkhead table suitable for use only in a calm anchorage or at the dock; its lightly built, unstable, and it has no fiddles. We replaced it, said a New England sailor.

Headroom is 6′ 2″ at best, but there are two big hanging lockers, an abundance of drawer space and eight opening ports. The chart table arrangement is creaky but adequate.

Performance The Cat Ketch Corp. eventually installed Yanmar diesels in its boats, but many of the earlier Herreshoffs have Nanni diesels. They are reported satisfactory in terms of performance and dependability, but it seems very hard to get parts for them.

Performance under sail is where the H-31 shines. During our test sail, short-tacking up a crowded channel was ridiculously easy. The boat takes perhaps a boat length to gain steerage way in moderate air, but beyond that theres no limit to how often you can tack. And, after the fifth, tenth and twentieth tack youll feel as fresh as you did after the first. Sail to anchor in a crowded anchorage? We dropped the main, weathervaned under mizzen, lowered the anchor at our leisure, then backed down to set it by holding the sail to weather.

I keep my boat on a canal near St. Petersburg, one owner bragged. Its a fifteen-minute run under power for everyone else to get to the Gulf. I sail in and out from my dock all the time.

Handling heavy air is via a reefing progression that runs mizzen, main & mizzen; douse mizzen; double-reef main. Not only are the reefs simple to put in, but the center of effort changes very little through the whole process, according to Herreshoff.

The H-31 moves very cleanly, accelerates surprisingly fast, and has a powerful motion in waves. In winds that ranged from 0 to 15 knots, and on just about every point of sail, we found her not just lively and responsive, but fast.

Conclusions Good looks, easy sailing, open accommodation, thoughtful touches, elegant simplicity, generally superior woodwork and fast passages are the plusses we found in the H-31. The combination makes her a good value, especially at a price under $30,000. But with a belly-up builder and a host of questions surrounding her construction, however, she could come with a nasty surprise or two.

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Stop fighting with your sail and boom cover. This sail and boom bag zips full length for ease and convenience and will fit any Hobie sail and boom. Full ventilation on each end with vinyl coated mesh. Added convenience with a separate compartment for line and blocks. Made with nylon Cordura, includes double shoulder straps for maximum ease while carrying. Ends unzip to extend for extra long parts.

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