Craig Cat Boats have become increasingly popular among recreational boaters in recent years. These small, versatile vessels are the perfect option for navigating through the tight spaces of the Florida Keys or Mosquito Lagoon.
Thanks to their compact design and powerful outboard motors, Craig Cat Boats provide an ideal solution for small day trips and leisurely cruises alike.
However, like all boats, there are a few common problems associated with owning a Craig Cat Boat. Outboard failures and steering malfunctions can cause dangerous and costly situations while on the water.
Additionally, wet rides are also common due to low freeboard combined with choppy waters. As such, it’s important for potential owners to be aware of these issues before making a purchase.
Fortunately, with proper maintenance and care, these issues can often be avoided altogether. Properly maintaining your outboard engine and performing regular inspections will help ensure that you stay safe and enjoy your time spent on board without any surprises along the way.
More of a compact power catamaran than a traditional boat, Craig Cat Boats are a great choice for those looking to enjoy the waterways in style. Just be sure to take the necessary precautions and steps with regard to maintenance and safety, so that you can truly make the most out of your time on board!
Let us now look into detail some of the issues associated with these unique vessels.
Failing Outboards
Meant for speed and maneuverability, Craig Cat Boats are known for their powerful outboard engines. Unfortunately, these engines can be prone to failure or malfunction if not properly maintained.
As such, it’s important that owners take the necessary steps to ensure that their outboard engine is running in top condition at all times. Regular maintenance and inspections should be performed before taking the vessel out on the water.
Many Captains reported they needed to replace the outboards with jet outboards, to be able to navigate through shallow waters. This is something you may want to consider if you intend to use your Craig Cat Boat in shallow waters.
In some cases, Captain’s had to adjust the height of the outboard motor for better performance and handling. Adjusting the height of your outboard motor can be a tricky process, as tow hat degree to tuck it in, and to what degree it should be extended will vary based on the conditions of your boat.
Most of the issues that were reported were found to be on their old models using Evinrude outboards. Upgrading to a newer model with better outboard engines can help prevent many of these issues from cropping up.
If you find that your outboard is not working properly, the first step is to diagnose the problem. Common issues such as worn-out parts, failure to start, or a lack of power can typically be fixed without needing to take the boat to a shop.
Steering Malfunctions
Craig Cat Boats also have a reputation for having steering issues. Captains may find that their boat is not responding to their commands or is difficult to maneuver due to a malfunctioning rudder or propeller.
But it is not always bad props but load on the boat, too much load on the Craig Cat Boat can make it hard to maneuver and steer. Always check your boat’s payload before heading out with your vessel, as this can be a simple fix if done right away.
Low Fuel Efficacy
Finally, Craig Cat Boats may have a lower fuel efficiency than other boats. This is due to their powerful outboard engines.
When compared to Gallons spent on a bass boat, usually the Craig Cat Boats spend more. Additionally, their smaller fuel tanks and the fact that they generally require higher RPMs for optimal performance may also contribute to their lower fuel efficiency.
It is important to be aware of this when planning a trip in your Craig Cat Boat. Make sure you plan ahead so that you have enough fuel to get you to your destination safely and comfortably.
Fortunately, many of these issues can be easily fixed with proper maintenance and care.
Size Factor
One of the biggest advantages at times becomes its biggest disadvantage. The size of the Craig Cat boat makes it feel crowded and tight with more than no more than people on board. Thus, these are best suited for a single person or couple who just want to have a good time on the water.
Also, keep in mind that since this boat is smaller and lower in weight, it may not be suitable for larger bodies of water due to its limited speed and maneuverability.
If you have a family with kids be ready to leave them at home or look for a larger boat to accommodate them.
Hull Bolts Breakage
Another common complaint was that the hull bolts were prone to breaking over time. This caused a weakening of the structure, making it difficult to steer and maneuver the boat.
Replacing the bolts is relatively inexpensive, but it is important to make sure they are installed correctly so as not to cause any further damage.
In choppy waters, these bolts may require additional tightening and inspections should be performed to ensure that the bolts are secure.
Propellor Problems
Propellor problems are yet another issue that tends to occur with Craig Cat Boats. With the combination of powerful outboard engines and small size, these boats can be susceptible to propellor issues.
Propellers may become bent or worn out due to hitting obstacles in the water, resulting in poor performance and inefficient power output.
It is important to inspect the propeller regularly and replace it when necessary. By doing so, you can ensure that your Craig Cat Boat will perform optimally in any conditions.
With proper maintenance and care, many of these issues can be avoided or fixed easily. Owners should always take the time to go through their boats before
Wet Rides
Finally, some passengers may experience a wet ride in their Craig Cat Boat. The smaller size and low profile of the boat can often cause it to take on more water than expected.
This can be eliminated by adding a splash guard or spray skirt to your boat, which will help keep you and your passengers dry on those choppy days. If you enjoy having a water spray then this can be an entertaining addition to your voyage.
How Good is Craig Cat Boat Customer Service
Known as a family-owned business the Craigs are great people to work with. With over 30 years of experience, their customer service is highly rated and they are always available to help out in any way possible.
They are responsive to customer complaints and issues and will do their best to make sure your Craig Cat Boat is working properly. They are also willing to answer any questions you may have about your boat and its performance.
Conclusion
Overall, the Craig Cat Boat is a great choice for those who are looking for a powerful and durable boat that can handle choppy waters. While it does have some common issues that may need to be fixed from time to time, most of these can easily be taken care of with a bit of maintenance and care. Keep in mind the size of the boat when planning your next voyage, as it may not be suitable for everyone. And lastly, always inspect the hull bolts before taking off to ensure your safety while on the water. With the right preparation and maintenance, you can have a great time out on the water with your Craig Cat Boat. Have fun and be safe!
Clifford Slater is a seasoned writer with over 25 years of experience in boats and fishing trips. With his extensive knowledge and expertise in boats and fishing, he has become a recognized authority in the industry. Clifford has made it a point to regularly visit popular fishing destinations such as Florida and other places in the USA to stay up to date with the latest trends and techniques in the field.
Over the years, Clifford has acquired a wealth of knowledge about boats and fishing, which he has shared through his writing. His articles and books are widely read by fishing enthusiasts and professionals alike, and his insights are highly valued by those seeking to improve their skills in the field. Clifford’s passion for boats and fishing is evident in his writing, and his readers appreciate the depth of his expertise and his ability to communicate complex topics in an engaging and accessible way.
Clifford Slater’s impressive credentials and dedication to his craft make him a trusted authority in the world of boats and fishing. His commitment to staying up to date with the latest developments in the industry, combined with his deep knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, ensures that his writing is always informative and valuable. For those seeking to improve their skills or simply enjoy the beauty of the sea, Clifford’s writing is a must-read.
