Dear Annie,
JUNK RIGGED CATAMARANS
Well sailing across the Atlantic in a wee Wharram would put an but the hardiest soul off cats for life!
To try an keep the, albeit rather small, flag for junk rigged catamarans flying, a few more comments:
A) Build time. I would question whether it is much different, it would be enlightening to hear Pete's view. You are working with lighter components that can be manhandled, at least until joined together. Take a look at http://www.thecoastalpassage.com/cheapcat.html A 30ft cat for $21k £12k (though not sure when) Built in 900hrs by an Ozzie in his 70s, designed on the back of a beer mat after a few stubbies (Annie: a youngster like yourself, inspired by a few glasses of the red stuff could produce a really elegant design!!)
B) I have contacted Bernd Kholer, he says a single junk rig may be ok on the KD860 (Orynx is an extended KD860).
C) The interior of a bridge-deck cat is a very pleasant and social space, good views out on at least 3 sides. There is good contact between galley and sitting area. If you spend much time at anchor, where there could be any swell, a cat is going to be so much more comfortable. You can also squeeze up little creeks, without too much worry about being stuck. I would admit, not so good in a rocky harbour, full of steel fishing boat (as around E Scotland).
D) Heating, yes considerably more than a Mono, but if you are building lots of insulation can be added, so should be cosy enough.
E) The more I look at the KD860, the more I think what a good looking cat. Probably about as small as you can go and not look ungainly. http://ikarus342000.com/KD860page.htm
Whether I get the time and energy to start my own build, who knows?
Cheers Mark