The Hobie Cat Tiger is a high-performance sailing catamaran designed for racing and recreational sailing. It is manufactured by Hobie Cat Company, a renowned American manufacturer of catamarans and other water sports equipment.
Here are some key features and characteristics of the Hobie Cat Tiger:
1. Design: The Tiger features a sleek and modern design with a lightweight fiberglass hull and a trampoline-style deck. It has a length of 18 feet (5.5 meters) and a beam of 8 feet 6 inches (2.6 meters).
2. Performance: The Tiger is known for its exceptional speed and agility. It is designed to be sailed by a two-person crew, with one person controlling the mainsail and the other handling the jib. The boat's twin hulls and high-performance sails allow it to reach impressive speeds, making it a popular choice for racing enthusiasts.
3. Rigging: The Tiger utilizes a rotating mast, which helps optimize sail shape and performance. It also features a fully battened mainsail and a roller-furling jib, allowing for easy and efficient sail adjustments.
4. Trampoline: The Tiger has a trampoline-style deck made of durable mesh material. This provides a comfortable and stable platform for the crew to sit or stand on while sailing. The trampoline also helps reduce the boat's overall weight and increases its speed potential.
5. Control Systems: The Tiger is equipped with a range of control systems to ensure smooth and precise sailing. It features adjustable trapeze wires, allowing the crew to hang out over the water to counterbalance the boat's heeling. The boat also has adjustable daggerboards and rudders, enabling fine-tuning of the sailing performance.
6. Transportability: The Tiger is designed to be easily transported and launched. Its lightweight construction and detachable components make it convenient to transport on a trailer or car roof rack. This allows sailors to explore different sailing locations and participate in regattas or events.
7. Racing Class: The Hobie Cat Tiger is recognized as an official racing class by various sailing organizations worldwide. It is often raced in one-design regattas, where all boats are identical, ensuring fair competition based on skill and tactics.
Overall, the Hobie Cat Tiger is a high-performance sailing catamaran that offers thrilling and fast-paced sailing experiences. Whether you are a competitive racer or a recreational sailor, the Tiger provides an exciting and enjoyable ride on the water.