8 Problems with Craigcat Boat – Expert Tips to Fix

Whenever I think about envisioning a day on the water, the Craigcat boat often emerges as an epitome of adventure and freedom which is a compact vessel. 

But wait, in the past few years many owners have faced different issues and problems with this boat. The list of these issues is from unexpected maintenance woes to nuanced navigational challenges. 

That’s why I came across this article to help fellow owners and potential buyers who are thinking of investing in Craigcat. 

First we will talk about the common problems that you may encounter or may face in future and then talk about whether it is worth buying.

Let’s dive into:

Craigcat Boat Problems

Craigcat Boat problems are steering responsiveness failure, Hull Bolt issues, Propellor bend and breakage, outboard failure, size factors, built quality issues and most important is the wet ride problem.

1. Riders Suffer with Steering More

Steering is a very important component when you are navigating CraigCat boats. But sometimes you can face sudden issues, such as stiff steering and lack of responsiveness.

Don’t hesitate because these issues come due to worn-out steering cables, misaligned rudders, and sometimes loose parts. 

What we can do to fix these issues is an actual question which arises here. So to rectify these, you should conduct routine checks, lubricate the steering cables, adjust the alignment of the rudder, tighten any loose components, and ensure balanced weight distribution onboard. 

If you’re finding it tough to steer at low speeds, it could be due to incorrect prop selection and unbalanced load. 

In that case you should switch to a suitable prop and evenly distribute weight which will give you a clear difference after doing. 

Don’t forget that external factors like operating the boat solo can also affect its steering capabilities. 

2. Hull Bolt Issues 

Have you ever thought about the role of hull bolts in your boat’s performance? 

These seemingly insignificant components are integral to your boat’s structural integrity and steering capabilities. 

Over time, wear and tear of these components can lead to breakages, compromising your vessel’s maneuverability. 

But fear not! You can easily prevent this by ensuring these bolts are correctly installed and inspected regularly. 

Ask yourself: when was the last time you checked your hull bolts? If it’s been a while, perhaps it’s time for a quick check. 

3. Propellor Stuck Sometimes

Propellor is a powerful component, and despite its compact size, can dictate your boat’s performance. 

However, these propellers can face challenges. Sometimes they could be hit by any obstacle under water which definitely we can’t see from outside.  

Due to those obstacles your propeller might have become bent or worn, that could lead to a decrease in performance and power output. 

So you should regularly inspect and replace the propellers if needed to keep enjoying a happy boating adventure. 

Related: Polycraft Boat Problems

The cost of the propeller fully depends on the model you are riding. You can check the list of the accessories on the official website of the Craigcat.

The replacement of the propeller may cost you between $45-$655. As I mentioned above it depends on the model of your boat. 

4. Fuel Efficiency is Very Bad

Fuel efficiency is one of the most common things which every budget lover thinks about. 

But unfortunately these powerful machines, with their robust outboard engines, tend to require higher RPMs for peak performance. 

This can lead to a thirstier vessel, especially when compared to bass boats. 

Here’s another worst thing about Craigcat that you should not forget, which is its smaller fuel tanks. 

But here’s the silver lining – with proper care and regular engine inspections, you can boost your boat’s fuel efficiency. 

The more pro thing you should do is to set the outboard motor at the right height, which can improve handling and performance, leading to potential savings at the pump. 

These robust machines must drink a large amount of the fuel but when you follow the above tips then it will show you clear differences. 

5. Outboard Failure 

The outboard engine, a robust powerhouse that demands diligent care. 

Without regular maintenance, it can falter, resulting in less-than-optimal performance. 

Outdated models of outboards, especially Evinrude ones, may need replacement to improve performance in specific conditions, like shallow waters. 

But by switching to newer and different types of outboards, you can enhance your boat’s performance. 

 You can also enhance the engine efficiency by adjusting the height of the outboard motor.

6. Size Factors 

The main complaint of the Craigcat is the difficulty maneuvering larger Ciargcat boats in tight marinas or shallow waterways. 

It is often due to their increased beam and length, which can also contribute to higher docking fees and storage challenges. 

Many other owners report the issue of the less legroom in their models on different forums. 

So you should first consider your requirements when you are going to buy these boats and then decide which of the models from Craigcat will suit your preferences. 

7. Built Quality is Bad

The built quality for any product is very important as low quality items wear out soon and we lose our money on them. 

Many of the owners report that the built quality of these boats is very cheap and the electric components start getting rusty within a month. 

A user on form [thehulltruth] posted his experience and review about Craigcat and he mentioned that electric switches and light fixtures get rust soon, decks are weak plastic and bimini hardware is plastic.

It clearly shows that these boats are built of very bad quality and you may experience the issues of rust and broken parts. 

8. Wet Ride 

One prevalent issue faced by owners and users of Catamaran-style boats, like the Ciargcat, is the phenomenon known as a “wet ride.” 

It refers to the excessive spray and water that can soak the deck and passengers, which is particularly discomforting in rougher seas and at higher speeds. 

The primary reasons for this problem often include hull design, boat weight distribution, and the angle of entry into the water (often called the ‘attack angle’).

Hull design greatly influences the amount of spray generated. Catamarans with flatter hull designs tend to slap the water hard, throwing more spray. 

A hull with deeper V sections can cut through the water more cleanly, which will reduce the amount of water thrown up onto the deck. 

Weight distribution also affects the wet ride. If the boat is too heavily loaded at the front, the bow will sit lower in the water, which will cause it to plow through waves instead of riding over them, resulting in more spray. 

To get these issues killed you should make changes to the boat’s trim, weight distribution, and possibly the addition of spray rails or chinese designed to deflect water. 

Employing hydrodynamic modifications such as adding strakes or adjusting the trim tabs can help to lift the bow during movement, consequently reducing the amount of water that splashes onto the deck. 

Is Craigcat Worth Buying?

When considering the purchase of a Craigcat, it’s important to weigh its unique selling points against individual needs and preferences. 

Craigcat boats are renowned for their compact size and agility, making them an ideal choice for those looking for a personal watercraft that is easy to maneuver and store. 

They have a reputation for stability and are often hailed for their comfort, even in choppy waters, due to their patented horizontal catamaran design. 

Furthermore, Craigcat boats balanced high fuel efficiency, which can be a cost-saver in the long run. 

However, potential buyers should consider the boat’s limited passenger capacity and storage space, which may not be well-suited for larger groups or those wishing to undertake extensive cruising. 

Ultimately, if you prioritize a sporty, economical, and easy-to-handle watercraft for solo adventures or outings with a partner, a Craigcat could be a valuable investment.

Is CraigCat Good in Rough Water?

Navigating rough waters poses a unique set of challenges, but with the compact and robust design of the CraigCat boat, sailors can rest assured of improved stability and maneuverability. 

This small, two-seater catamaran is known for its exceptional handling, especially in choppy conditions where larger vessels might struggle. 

The twin-hull design cuts through waves more easily than traditional monohulls, reducing the impact of heavy swells and providing a drier ride. 

Furthermore, the CraigCat’s shallow draft allows for close shore access which can be essential for seeking shelter in sudden rough weather. 

For adventurers who wish to explore waterways where conditions can change rapidly, the CraigCat offers a reliable option that combines the thrill of open-water exploration with the security of a vessel designed to handle sudden bouts of rough water.