Reviewing the Island Spirit - Southwinds, February 2002

- Local News for Southern Sailors - February 2002 Next Story

Reviewing the 36-foot Island Spirit
By Charles E. Kanter

I think designer Phil Southwell produced an above average catamaran with the Island Spirit.

The early model of the Island Spirit I surveyed and sailed was equipped with a Carbo spars Aero rig and was manufactured by Fortuna Yachts, SA. The yacht is designed and equipped for blue water. This is one handsome boat. It is nicely proportioned and looks like it is sailing fast even secured to the dock.

I did considerable sailing on this boat. It handled quite well and I was again impressed by the performance of the Aero rig. I am getting more and more familiar with this rig, having sailed on a Hirondelle and a Prout 45 also equipped with an Aero rig.

This particular boat, Manx, had won its class in the 1996 Capetown to Rio race. It handled quite well, tacked securely, answered the helm without complaint, and I particularly liked the aft head arrangement that allowed engine access through the shower stall. I note that the later models have reverted to the engines under the bunks.

The boat has a U-shaped galley-up arrangement, which is very well laid out and quite convenient. I would also prefer to see a double sink. There is room for it in the cabinet. The refrigerator is across the saloon from the galley central, but at least it is away from the heat of the stove.

The charter version features four staterooms while the owner's version features three, with a full owner's suite in the starboard hull. The saloon table and surround bench is L-shaped rather than the more common U-shape, leaving room for real chairs. This is especially good for those planning on living aboard for considerable lengths of time. The overall ambiance of the saloon is excellent.

The clever window treatment eliminates the need for the ubiquitous covers seen on so many cats while not destroying the spectacular panoramic view, one of the most intriguing aspects of a cruising catamaran.

I especially like the cockpit treatment and the access to the transoms and the decks via real level steps with good handholds. Getting around on the foredeck was reasonable, and now with the new window treatment, the upper deck is even more accessible, as is the mast step.

For special mention is the foredeck split heavy-duty trampoline with wide central promenade and anchor on the bow. This is a good utilitarian arrangement, as it should be.

Underwater we find the usual mini-keels and spade rudders. The engines have sail drives, but the hulls are high buoyancy hulls and have a length/beam ratio above what most of the competitive yachts have as well as an underwater shape showing a greater chine, giving more buoyancy yet. I think this is good policy, knowing the stuff most owners drag aboard. This appears to be one yacht designed for that eventuality of being loaded with gear and possessions. Despite this lack of extremism in design, the vessel distinguished itself in the 1996 Capetown to Rio race.

Island Spirit Specs