The Menger Cat 23 is a small sailing boat designed and built by Menger Boatworks, a company based in New York, USA. It is a catboat, which means it has a single mast located near the bow of the boat, with a large, single sail.
Here are some key features and specifications of the Menger Cat 23:
1. Size and Dimensions: The Menger Cat 23 has an overall length of 23 feet (7 meters) and a beam (width) of 8 feet (2.4 meters). It has a shallow draft, typically around 2 feet (0.6 meters), which allows it to navigate in shallow waters.
2. Construction: The boat is constructed using hand-laid fiberglass, which provides durability and strength. The hull design is known for its stability and ease of handling.
3. Sailing Performance: The Menger Cat 23 is designed to be a comfortable and stable sailboat. Its catboat rigging, with a single sail, makes it easy to handle and maneuver. The boat has a relatively large sail area, which allows for good performance in light to moderate winds.
4. Cabin and Accommodation: The Menger Cat 23 features a small cabin with basic amenities. It can accommodate a small crew for overnight trips or weekend cruising. The cabin includes a V-berth, a small galley area, and a portable toilet.
5. Cockpit and Deck: The boat has a spacious cockpit with comfortable seating for the crew. The deck layout is designed to provide easy access to all areas of the boat, including the mast and sail controls.
6. Trailerable: The Menger Cat 23 is trailerable, which means it can be easily transported on a trailer to different sailing locations. This feature allows for flexibility and convenience in terms of launching and storage.
7. Popularity and Availability: The Menger Cat 23 is a relatively rare boat, as Menger Boatworks ceased production in the early 2000s. However, used models can still be found on the market, and they are sought after by sailors who appreciate the traditional design and sailing characteristics of a catboat.
Overall, the Menger Cat 23 is a small but capable sailing boat, known for its stability, ease of handling, and comfortable cabin. It is suitable for day sailing, weekend cruising, and exploring coastal waters.
