Minicat is based in the Czech Republic and manufactures a range of inflatable catamarans from 9'8'' to 15' (3 to 4.60 m). The idea is to offer easy-to-use boats that are easy to transport, quick to assemble and fun to use. As a result, all models can be disassembled and transported in a wheeled bag that fits in the trunk of a car or on the roof rack, that can find a place in a camper van and even be transported by plane…
Minicat has been in existence for 17 years and has already sold hundreds of boats all over the world. The concept has also won over famous sailors such as Laura Dekker, who at the age of 16 became the youngest person to sail solo around the world. Having had the opportunity to sail on a Minicat, Laura fell in love with the concept and, since 2010, has even become an ambassador for the brand. Laura even participated in the creation of her own boat - the 420 Laura Dekker Ltd. Edition.
Less than 10 ft long et only 60 lb
At just 9'8'' (3 m) long, the Guppy is the smallest model in the range, making it a perfect introductory sailboat or a fun toy. Of course, it features all the advantages of the brand's catamarans, starting with its light weight of just 60 Lb (27 kg) and the fact that it can be carried in a bag just 5'4'' (1.65 m) long.
Based on the popular Minicat 310, the Guppy is now in its second generation. This version incorporates a number of innovations, such as floats already attached to the frame. It also features a 13'6'' (4.15 m) flexible composite mast that is simply attached to the frame, without stay. The mast itself is composed of three easy-to-assemble parts. This makes the catamaran much safer in strong winds, as the mast flexes and prevents the sailor from capsizing at the slightest gust.
Made of quality materials
The little multihull also benefits from an aluminum frame to stiffen the whole, a solid trampoline permanently attached to the floats, a lifting rudder mounted on an articulated tiller arm and two small keels that slide under each float. These fins are made of UV-resistant polypropylene, and their design and shape allow the boat to be raised upwind, while still allowing it to sail in shallow water.
Last but not least, handles all over the boat make it easy to hold on while sailing or to carry the catamaran. The floats themselves are made of reinforced Heytex 5509, a material produced in Germany that is highly resistant to abrasion and wear. Their diameter is 15'' (39 cm), enabling them to support a load of up to 518 Lb (235 kg).
