Having owned a Maine Cat 38 for several years, we’re delighted to share our experiences with this exceptional catamaran. Like many, our search for the perfect cruising catamaran began by considering both Seawind 1190 and Maine Cat, both renowned for their quality and performance. We ultimately chose the Maine Cat and haven’t looked back. Our sailing grounds span the US East Coast and the Bahamas, with our home port situated on the Chesapeake Bay, providing a diverse range of sailing conditions to test and appreciate our Maine Cat.
One of the standout features of the Maine Cat 38 is the ability to sail entirely from the salon. This design element significantly enhances the sailing experience, particularly for shorthanded crews. Underway, managing the sails from the protected salon is incredibly convenient. The only times we need to venture onto the deck are for deploying or retrieving the asymmetrical spinnaker and making adjustments to the main outhaul. The salon layout is thoughtfully designed for sailing, featuring practical sheet bins that keep lines neatly organized and readily accessible. This thoughtful design minimizes clutter and maximizes efficiency when actively sailing the Maine Cat.
Alt text: Maine Cat 38 catamaran gracefully sailing on open water, showcasing its sleek design and performance.
For climate control, our Maine Cat 38 is equipped with air conditioning in the starboard hull, which we find to be more than adequate for our needs. Even in warmer climates, this single unit effectively cools the sleeping quarters. While those based in extremely hot regions like South Florida and intending to sleep in both hulls at marinas might consider dual AC units, we find the single unit to be efficient. For natural ventilation, screen closures are fitted to all salon openings, allowing us to enjoy pleasant evenings with the breeze flowing through. Interestingly, we utilize our AC unit more frequently for heating during off-season cruising in cooler climates, highlighting its versatility beyond just cooling.
To further optimize temperature control within the hulls when using air conditioning, we’ve created custom cloth covers for the port and starboard companionways. These covers effectively help maintain a comfortable temperature below. The salon also features a versatile port side table that converts into a bunk. This area has become a favorite spot for socializing, offering a cozy and comfortable space on rainy days or for engaging with the cook while underway.
Alt text: Interior view of a Maine Cat catamaran salon, highlighting the spacious layout, comfortable seating, and functional design for sailing.
Power for maneuvering is provided by Yamaha high thrust 9.9 horsepower outboards. These engines offer good maneuverability, although perhaps not quite as agile as the higher horsepower installations found in larger catamarans with engines mounted under each hull. However, the significant advantage of these outboards is their ability to be easily pulled up for sailing and storage. This feature reduces drag while sailing and protects the engines when not in use, a practical benefit for performance cruising on a Maine Cat.
We are consistently impressed with the sailing performance of our Maine Cat 38. It routinely outperforms other very capable sailboats, often exceeding expectations. Its pointing ability is comparable to performance-oriented daggerboard catamarans, a testament to its efficient hull design and sail plan. The Maine Cat has confidently carried us through demanding ocean conditions, demonstrating its seaworthiness and robust construction.
Alt text: Close-up detail showcasing the high build quality of a Maine Cat catamaran, emphasizing the craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The build quality of our Maine Cat is truly exceptional. The exquisite craftsmanship and evident pride in construction are plainly visible throughout the boat. This commitment to quality contributes significantly to our overall satisfaction and confidence in our Maine Cat 38 as a reliable and high-performing cruising catamaran.
