catamaran o catamaran

Catamaran vs. Monohull: We Changed, Should You?

There are two schools of thought when it comes to monohull versus catamaran . We have done extensive cruising and lived aboard two monohulls and four catamarans over the past 25+ years . We experienced the good and the bad for both single hull and multihulls first hand. Quite honestly, the pluses for catamarans far outweigh the minuses. There are multiple benefits of catamarans. They are faster, more stable and spacious, and have shallower drafts allowing safer anchorage closer to shore. Being on a stable platform with no heeling cuts down on crew fatigue and seasickness leaving the crew more alert and in control of the vessel. Even novice sailors feel more confident on catamarans.

When we built our monohull Royal Salute in the early 90s, catamarans were not established and were looked upon with extreme suspicion by most cruisers, including ourselves. “Safety and the capsize” issue were always the first things to come up against sailing catamarans. It is a fact that monohulls can get rolled in heavy seas but will right themselves because of the heavy lead keel, and while crew and vessel will be battered, the roll is survivable.

However a catamaran once capsized, will remain upside down (jokingly referring to this state of the catamaran as “reaching its most stable position when upside down”). The inability of a catamaran to self-right was and still is a major bone of contention. However, what is not often discussed is that a monohull has about a 5,000 pound keel of lead that is constantly trying to drag the boat to the bottom of the ocean versus a catamaran that has no ballast and is in most cases with modern catamarans, unsinkable.

So the options are to either sail the world on a boat that, if it springs a leak, will sink like a stone or a vessel that cannot self-right in the event of a capsize but will not sink no matter what. So from a practical point of view, here are our observations over the last 25+ years of living aboard, on the advantages and disadvantages of a catamaran.

ADVANTAGES OF A CATAMARAN

1. speed equals safety.

The speed of a catamaran makes it possible to outrun bad weather. While catamarans do not point as high into the wind as a monohull (or if it does, it makes more leeway or slides sideways), it is about 20% faster than a monohull. This means that even if you sail upwind at a slightly wider angle to the wind than a monohull and have to cover more distance, you will still arrive at your destination long before a monohull.

A modern performance catamaran with daggerboards and good quality sails will point as high as a similar sized monohull. It will point the same as a comparable monohull and sail much faster and therefore arrive at an upwind position much sooner than a the monohull. It is important to note that most of the production catamarans on the market are under-powered and are equipped with standard smaller sails. In lighter breezes many of these designs perform poorly unless fitted with bigger headsails, a Code Zero and a square-top mainsail.

While we believe that more comfortable and safer in rough weather , we have to concede that when the weather gets really bad (60 knots of wind or more) we would personally prefer to be on a monohull from the standpoint of surviving. I would say that a monohull is preferable for serious offshore single-handed sailing because you can more easily hove-to in a monohull. We have been in some extreme weather on a number of catamarans and never really felt that we were in danger, although it takes some nifty seamanship.

A monohull could capsize in extreme weather or even roll in a storm, but they generally come back upright. A catamaran on the other hand, will not right itself. But the cat will generally stay afloat, offering a good place to survive while you wait out the storm or until help comes along. Well-designed modern catamarans are very hard to capsize though.

Having said all that, most catamarans can do 200 to 250 miles a day and with modern technology allowing one to pull down weather at will, there is no good reason why you should get caught in extreme weather. A faster boat is a safer boat as it will in many cases be able to outrun bad weather. With good weather routing information a catamaran can avoid most serious weather and, at worst, place itself in the most favorable position to avoid the brunt of a storm.

2. A Catamaran is a Stable, Safe Platform Underway

Catamarans have no ballast in the keels like monohulls do and therefor it relies on beam and buoyancy for stability. Typically cruising catamarans will have a beam to length ratio of roughly 50%, although many designs nowadays exceed the 50% rule of thumb. So, a 45-ft long catamaran will be about 22-ft wide, providing a very stable platform when sailing. Unlike catamarans, monohulls cannot overcome the rolling and pitching with their narrow beam and the lead ballast for stability.

This rolling and pitching makes the deck on a monohull very unsafe whereas on walking around on the deck of a catamaran while underway is far easier since the boat is much more stable, and it doesn’t heel. This makes sail changes and reefing much easier and a lot safer for the crew. Without the rolling and pitching motion, the danger of falling overboard on a catamaran is considerably less than on a monohull.

3. Crew Fatigue Reduces on a Catamaran

Because a catamaran does not heel over like a monohull, it offers far more comfort underway because the motion is mostly fore and aft pitching and very little beam-to-beam rolling. On all points of sail, a catamaran tracks upright and significantly reduces crew fatigue and seasickness. Seasickness is usually caused by things like anxiety, fatigue, hunger and cold, which all add to a sense of disorientation. This leads the crew to making bad decisions and seamanship errors that could be fatal to the crew and vessel. The more stable platform of the catamaran will hugely keep those issues at bay, making the crew more alert and energized.

Every action and chore including cooking is much easier on a catamaran when underway. It is much more pleasant to be on the deck level looking out rather than being stuck “down below.” It is also much nicer to sleep on a boat that doesn’t heel. I remember nights at sea in our monohull when I was rolling around in my bunk unless I was properly wedge in a little corner. That is simply not the case on catamarans.

All these factors ensure that your crew will not expend unnecessary energy to simply try and stay upright, onboard and safe on a long passage. Your crew on a catamaran will be well rested and alert and will be able to function well if a stressful situation arises.

4. Comfort at Anchor

Catamarans provide a wide platform and therefore offer lovely spaces to relax at anchor without the rolling motion that monohulls have a tendency to do in a swell. During our 15 years of cruising on a monohull, we have often had to leave anchorages that we really were not finished exploring because of a rolly, uncomfortable anchorage. Big rollers or swells coming into an anchorage can make conditions in an anchorage very uncomfortable and unsafe.

We were anchored off Funchal on the island of Madeira in our monohull Royal Salute once, when we were forced to leave our anchorage. The rolling became so bad, we were rolling from gunnel to gunnel. The anchorage became untenable to remain anchored, forcing us to go out to sea in foul weather in the middle of the night. This is an extreme case but believe me, we have left many an idyllic anchorage because of a rolling swell into the anchorage. Catamarans, on the other hand, do not roll from like monohulls have a tendency to do and are far more comfortable at anchor.

5. Anchor Bridal Setup

Catamarans are fitted with a bridle, attached to both bows and down to the anchor chain, resulting in a very stable position at anchor. What we found with our monohull was that because the bow acts as a sail (because of the high freeboard), the boat tended to sail at anchor in high winds. It sailed in one direction until the chain snatched and tacked over and sailed in the other direction, feeling like it might dislodge the anchor altogether. The catamaran on the other hand sits at anchor a lot more stable and doesn’t sail around as much.

6. Ease of Boarding on a Catamaran

Thank goodness we were much younger and more agile during our monohull days. Royal Salute and most monohulls of her generation or older, have high free-boards, making it quite a feat to get onto the boat from the dinghy. It was one of the most challenging things to do because unlike the more modern monohulls that have a scoop at the back, we had to climb up on the side of the boat to get on and off. We, of course rigged steps, etc. but it was always a hassle compared to the ease of getting on and off a catamaran from a dingy or from the water.

7. Shallow Draft Equals Better Anchorages

Catamarans have significantly shallower drafts than monohulls, allowing for safer anchorages closer to shore. Most catamarans in the 40-ft to 50-ft range draw between 3-ft to 4.5-ft, so they can anchor in places that a monohulls can not even consider. In the shallow waters of the Bahamas for example, the catamarans have a big advantage. We often anchor our own catamaran just a few feet away from a beach. It definitely allows one to be able to explore areas where the water is shallow without the fear of running aground.

The shallow draft also allows for emergency repairs in shallow water and even doing the bottom job when the tide goes out as we have done in places like Mtwapa Creek in Kenya, East Africa. The catamaran easily rests on her keels on the sand without help making it a breeze to do the “annual haul out” even in remote locations.

8. Dinghy Davits & Dinghy Size

All catamarans have a set of davits that make it very easy to raise and lower the dingy. Our monohull and most cruising monohulls do not have an efficient or easily accessible set of davits. This makes raising and lowering the dingy an elaborate production. Catamarans on the other hand, has davits systems easily accessible and some even have platforms to rest the dinghy on.

The lack of beam and difficulty of lifting the dinghy also limits the size and type of dingy that one can reasonably carry on a monohull. As we all know, the dingy is your transport to and from shore and diving or fishing spots, so the bigger and faster the dingy, the better off you are. A catamaran can carry both a heavier and bigger dinghy which makes the popular center consul dinghy so much more possible.

9. Interior Space and Comfort on a Catamaran

We sailed 32,000 NM on our 45-ft monohull, happy as clams, not realizing that sailing does not have to be done lying on your ear 24/7 while on passage or sitting knee-to-knee in the cockpit at anchor with your two other guests at the dinner table! One can liken sitting in a monohull cockpit to sitting in an empty Jacuzzi, you are always nice and close to the other folks.

Now that we are on our fourth catamaran, there are a few things that have become more evident to us than the incredible space and comfort of a catamaran, not only at anchor but also underway. The cockpit and living space in general are huge compared to a monohull, making for very comfortable and spacious living conditions. It feels more like you are at home, rather than just on a camping trip.

Knowing that one spends at least 90% of one’s cruising life at anchor, it’s important to have good open living space, which most modern cats nowadays offer. A lot of cats have walk around beds, lots of storage, every modern appliance including washer/dryer, etc. However, one has to fight the urge to fill the space if you want to keep the cat light and fast.

Sailing with guests onboard for extended periods of time, in close quarters can become claustrophobic but on a catamaran people are spread out and separated. With guests sleeping in one hull and the owners in another, catamarans offer much more privacy and separation. Some cats even have privacy doors that will close off the entire hull and has a separate entrance onto the deck, which really separates you from the guests completely.

There is very little heeling on a catamaran, so there is no need for hand grips and safety harnesses inside the boat. There is nothing better (and safer) than being able to walk from the cockpit into the living room (saloon) on one level or one step down at most. In a monohull, when heeling at a severe angle, you would have to claw your way from the companionway steps down to the living area, while fighting to stay upright, significantly tapping your energy.

Unless you hit extreme conditions, everything stays put on a catamaran reducing the anxiety before doing passages of having to stow and secure everything. This very issue makes a lot of cruisers reluctant to weigh anchor and explore more often. It is just too much effort to pack away all your stuff once comfortable in an anchorage!

One thing you will notice is that the stove on catamarans are not gimbaled like it is on monohulls and this should tell the story in itself. The stability and comfort on a catamaran is far superior. Cooking is easy and safer. I often open a nice cold beer, put it down to do something and forget about it only to find a warm beer later in the same place I left it. This is not something that happens on a monohull.     

10. Redundancy on a Catamaran

Unlike monohulls, catamarans have a lot of critical redundancies. That of course means two hulls to clean and anti-foul, double the engine maintenance, etc. but having two of the critical equipment like engines for instance, outweighs the downside.

With two engines, if one fails you still have adequate propulsion to go anywhere. If by some fluke the second engine also fails, you have a full set of spares to fix at least one of them. Our friends once hit a sleeping whale off Tanzania, and when it dove, it hit the prop, bending it. They limped into the narrow channel on the one engine but at least they could make it to a safe harbor where we surveyed and repaired their damage.

We often only use one engine when motoring while making passage in order to conserve our fuel. The one engine is totally capable of moving the boat along at a good speed unless you are in heavy seas and you may need more power. Other than that we only use two engines to dock or maneuver the boat in close quarters.

Because there are two engines there are also two independent charging systems via the alternator on each engine. If one alternator goes out, there is still another complete charging system. There are two rudders and if one fails or falls off (as has happened to our friends on a monohull off Columbia, where they almost lost their boat) you have a second rudder that is completely capable of steering the boat by itself indefinitely. That holds true for several things on a catamaran!     

11. Maneuverability

The engines are spaced far apart on a catamaran and it makes maneuvering much easier and more precise than monohulls, unless the monohull has a bow thruster. We did not have a bow thruster (not many monohulls do) and had to rely on prop-walk and using prop wash on the rudder. A modern catamaran can do a 360 turn on her own axis. A monohull cannot do this and have a bigger turning circle. However, a monohull under sail is much more maneuverable and certainly will tack a lot faster than a catamaran. The ease in maneuverability under engine on a catamaran in close quarters specifically, is vastly superior comparatively.

12. Rigging

Because of the beam on a catamaran the spinnaker pole has become unnecessary equipment. Hallelujah, I say. That pole on our monohull was a pain the behind and I always hated having to use it. On a catamaran, one can fly an asymmetrical cruising chute or spinnaker, using the bows to tack the clew or run a guy through a block so it is very much simplified, easier and safer.We also sail wing-on-wing with twin headsails when we sail downwind. We use our furling jib and furling Code Zero. It is as easy as one, two, three.

DISADVANTAGES OF A CATAMARAN

1. bridgedeck slamming.

One advantage most monohulls do have when underway is that they don’t slam. Catamarans with a low bridgedeck clearance can experience significant slamming in confused seas sailing upwind. This slamming can be quite disconcerting when you first experience it as we did on a Shuttleworth 44 design, our first ever catamaran experience, 20+ years ago. At times, it felt as though the boat was falling apart. Of course the boat was fine but nevertheless, the stress on the crew from the constant noise and discomfort was significant.

Monohulls don’t have a bridgedeck which means no slamming and are therefore a bit more comfortable than l ow bridgedeck catamarans when beating into severe confused conditions or “washing machine” conditions as we call it. Modern catamarans mostly have better bridgedeck clearance and the slamming is significantly less. However, not all cats have a good clear tunnel under the bridgedeck. Some manufacturers build beds into the bridge deck in order to make more space in the chest of the catamaran where the slamming occurs. These protuberances into the bridgedeck tunnel will likely increase slamming. So be mindful of that when selecting a catamaran. We currently own a Bali 5.4 and the bridgedeck clearance on this boat is more than adequate and the tunnel is clear. We therefor experience very little slamming compared to our Prout 45 that we previously owned (picture of sister ship below) with a much lower bridgedeck.

We Explain Bridgedeck Clearance

In the pictures below, the Bali 5.4 has very good clearance from the water to the bridgedeck and has a nice clean tunnel versus the very low bridgedeck of the Sunreef 50. 

2. Sailing Downwind

Monohull spreaders are set at 90 degrees to the mast whereas a catamaran has to have backswept spreaders. The reason is that, on a monohull, there is a backstay and using this, plus the intermediates you can get a nice pre-bend in the mast (the pre-bend is to flatten out the main sail and allow for better performance).

On a catamaran with no back stay, you need to use the back swept spreaders and the diamonds to pre-bend the mast. The reason I point this out is because on a catamaran, if you want to broad reach or run, the mainsail cannot be let out all the way because the backswept spreader tips could punch holes in the fabric.

On a monohull, the spreaders are at 90 degrees so you can let the main and the boom out much further which is, of course, much more effective. This is one of the reasons it is better to broad reach and tack downwind on a catamaran.

Whether a monohull or multihull, sailing dead downwind doesn’t usually make great VMG. Therefor a regular cruising cat, much like a monohull, needs a lot of sail area and has to sail deep downwind if it is to achieve a decent speed made good (VMG). This video demonstrates how we achieve this by sailing wing-on-wing downwind.

It is more difficult to find a dock either as a transient or a permanent slip for a catamaran in general because of the wide beam. But this is changing fast and will soon not be too much of an issue. In the USA dockage is charged by the length of the boat in feet, so there is no disadvantage there but, in some places, (the Mediterranean for example), dockage is charged at length times one and a half because of the additional beam.

Since the catamaran is stable at anchor, we mostly anchor out. We have more privacy, a better breeze and usually a stunning view.We have a nice dinghy with a good outboard engine and is big and comfortable enough to get to shore fast and together with the modern conveniences like the generator, watermaker and washer/dryer, docking becomes a non-issue.

It is definitely more difficult to find a travel lift with enough beam for a catamaran for a haulout, while, for a monohull, there are absolutely no problems anywhere. The wide beam of cats also greatly limits the number of shipyards that can haul them out. Most catamarans over 40-ft must be hauled out with a 50-ton travel lift. This not only increases the cost of the haulout, but greatly limits the choice of the shipyards for repairs and maintenance. With limited choice, prices are high for shipyard services.

Catamarans do tend to have a lot more windage than monohulls. This can be an issue especially when maneuvering in close quarters with a strong wind. But I have found that, provided the engines are powerful enough for the size of catamaran, that twin engines negate this problem. Also, many modern large catamarans now have a bow thruster fitted. It is super easy to dock.

The cost of getting into a catamaran is much higher than that of monohulls. That could put a serious dent in your cruising kitty or require you to put your dream on hold a little longer. Pre-owned monohulls on the other hand are very cheap to buy comparatively, because the supply presently far outweighs the demand.

Catamarans are in high demand and they typically hold their value much better and longer and the trend is now heavily in favor of the catamaran market. When prospective buyers contact us for catamarans under $250,000 the choices are very limited and catamarans under $100,000 is near impossible to buy. In this case, your best bet is to go with a monohull unless you go with much older boats like the Prouts or the less expensive Geminis.

Our Own Catamarans & Monohulls

FYI: Royal Salute , a Bruce Roberts 45 monohull, was the first boat we owned and sailed approx. 30,000NM on. Mythral, a Seafarer 30, was our “toy boat” while we were waiting for our catamaran to be built. Even though this classic little monohull sailed around the world, it didn’t have much in modern conveniences like running water. Siyaya was an Island Spirit 40 catamaran that we sailed from Cape Town to Florida on and then taught live-aboard sailing classes for several years. Zuri I was a Prout 45, a beautifully crafted catamaran but by today’s standards is considered old technology. Our Lagoon 450 SporTop ( Zuri II ) is a fantastic live-aboard catamaran. We lived and taught aboard her for three years but sold her last year and we currently own a Bali 5.4 ( Zuri III or Z3 as we call her now). Read about our various boats .

CONCLUSION: CATAMARAN vs MONOHULL

We were dyed in the wool monohull sailors for 15+ years. We loved the pretty lines of monohulls, the sailing ability and what we believed at the time to be much safer vessels. However, now that we have been avid catamaran enthusiasts, we simply can never go back to monohulls. Catamarans have come of age and with modern technology have overcome most objections that sailors of old had against them. They are well designed and built, are safe, and we simply love that they sail fast and upright. There is not a whole lot to dislike about a catamaran when you live aboard. We have weighed all the pros and cons of catamarans and found that the pros far exceed the cons. We made the change to a catamaran and do not regret it one bit!

We hope that this article will clear things up for all the prospective catamaran owners out there.

Contact us if you have any questions regarding catamarans, Fractional Yacht Ownership or our Charter Management Programs .

Estelle Cockcroft

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4 thoughts on “Catamaran vs. Monohull: We Changed, Should You?”

I read that the engineering on the catamarans were improved over the years. Whats the oldest year would you recommend designwise?

Scott, my apologies for the late reply. We’ve been traveling in Africa. Anyway, catamarans have come a long way and improvements in technology is happening at lightning speed. I reckon that even the older model catamarans are good. It depends on what your needs are. If you want something a little better performance wise, I would go for something no older than 15 years.

After buying a catamaran what is the difference in expense of a catamaran vs a monohull. Many articles state that not only the initial cost of a catamaran is more it the operating cost as well.

Hi Todd, it is more expensive. The annual dockage and haul out as well as maintenance will be more expensive. You obviously have two engines to maintain and various other pieces of equipment to service in both hulls. While there is more equipment there is also more redundancy and of course you have the comfort factor. So, depending on your situation, it’s probably worth it.

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Yacht vs Catamaran: Which Boat is Right for You?

• On October 23, 2023
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When it comes to leisure boating, two of the most popular options are yachts and catamarans. But what exactly is the difference, and which one is better suited for your needs?

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll compare the key characteristics between monohull yachts and twin-hulled catamarans.

Visual Comparison of Catamaran and Yacht Designs

How they differ in handling and performance, onboard living spaces and amenities, ownership and operating costs, which boat is right for you, defining catamarans and yachts.

A catamaran is a type of multihull boat featuring two parallel hulls connected by a central deck. This twin-hull design provides more stability, expansive interior space, and shallow draft.

Yachts, on the other hand, have a single continuous hull and are known for their elegant aesthetics, lavish amenities, and versatility for long-range cruising.

Here’s a quick visual comparison of the general shapes and hull configurations:

Catamarans typically range anywhere from 40 to 70 feet in length, while yachts can be as small as 30 feet or over 100 feet for superyacht models.

When it comes to maneuverability and sailing dynamics, there are some key distinctions between catamarans and yachts:

• Speed  – Catamarans are lighter and have reduced drag, making them significantly faster than yachts. Top speeds can reach up to 25 knots.
• Stability  – With their twin hulls, catamarans offer unmatched stability and minimal rocking motion in rougher seas. This also reduces seasickness.
• Maneuverability  – Yachts take more skill to maneuver tight spaces, while catamarans can turn 360 degrees within their own length.
• Windward Performance  – Yachts point higher into the wind and sail more efficiently upwind. Catamarans excel on reaches and downwind sailing.

So for performance-oriented sailing, monohull yachts have some advantages. But catamarans trade maneuverability for supreme stability and comfort on the water.

One major differentiation between these two boat types is the onboard living spaces and amenities. Some key comparisons:

• Deck Space  – With their spacious bridge deck, catamarans offer ample lounging and relaxation space for large groups. Yachts have more confined deck space.
• Cabins  – Catamaran cabins are typically larger and more comfortable. But yachts allow for more privacy when chartering with other couples or guests.
• Entertainment  – Yachts focus more on lavish entertainment amenities like high-end sound systems, theaters, and bars. Catamarans offer more outdoor fun.
• Overall Comfort  – For stability, living accommodations, and seasickness reduction, catamarans are vastly more comfortable boats.

So catamarans excel when it comes to providing generous living areas for group getaways and family vacations. But yachts are tailored more for couples charters and luxury amenities.

A significant factor to weigh is the overall ownership costs between catamarans and yachts:

• Purchase Price  – Due to larger size and dual engines, catamarans come at a higher initial purchase cost. Yachts are more affordable for comparable lengths.
• Fuel Efficiency  – With two engines to power, catamarans use almost twice as much fuel to operate. Yachts are more efficient.
• Docking and Marina Fees  – Catamarans incur higher fees because they take up more dock space, especially in high-traffic areas.
• Maintenance  – More complex systems and dual engines onboard catamarans equate to higher lifetime maintenance costs.
• Resale Value  – Depreciation varies widely, but yachts tend to retain resale value better in the pre-owned market.

Clearly, the costs of owning and operating a catamaran are substantially higher compared to a similar-sized yacht. Being aware of these expenses will help determine the right boat for your budget.

We’ve covered a lot of comparisons, so which boat type is the best choice? Here are some quick recommendations based on needs:

• For comfort, stability, and spaciousness on extended cruising trips – Catamaran
• For performance-focused sailing and nimble maneuverability – Yacht
• For luxurious amenities and entertaining small groups – Yacht
• For exhilarating speed and family-friendly features – Catamaran
• For affordable purchase and lower operating costs – Yacht

Of course, it depends on your individual priorities and boating style. Charter both for a test run to see which you enjoy more. At the end of the day, the right boat is the one that fulfills your needs and invites you to experience the magic of the open water.

Hopefully this guide has provided a helpful overview of the core differences between catamarans and yachts. Let the voyage begin!

• https://catamaranguru.com/catamaran-vs-monohull-we-changed-should-you/
• https://blog.cancunsailing.com/en/diferencia-entre-yate-y-catamaran
• https://www.mbcyachts.com/types-of-yachts-and-their-pros-and-cons/
• https://makaiyachts.com/power-catamaran-vs-monohull/

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Steve Momot

Steve is an accomplished professional photographer and marketer who specializes in the Fishing, Yacht, and Boating industry. With a strong presence as an influencer and marketing expert in the Marine Industry, he has made a significant impact in the field. Additionally, Steve is the original creator and co-founder of Sportfishtrader. Prior to his career as a marine photographer, he gained extensive experience as a licensed boat and car dealer in South Florida.

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Catamaran Or Monohull? 27 Important Facts (Explained)

Catamarans and monohull boats are two very different kinds of vessels.  Each craft offers distinct advantages and disadvantages that you’ll want to consider before choosing between the two.

In this post, we’ll go over some of the important things to consider when choosing between catamarans and monohull boats:

Table of Contents

Cost & Availability

Both catamarans and monohull boats come in small recreational sailing versions, larger motorboat versions, and larger sailing models.  In all cases, the catamarans will cost more and will be harder to find.

The reason catamarans are harder to find because there are not as many of them, and they’re mostly made overseas.

Also, there aren’t as many catamaran manufacturers, so sailors have fewer options when buying them.

On top of this, catamarans have only recently become popular in the United States and other areas of the developed world.  This means the used market for boats doesn’t have as many catamarans on it.  You might find that you have fewer options when making a used catamaran purchase, which could bring costs up to a premium.

Two Times The Fun with Catamarans

Another reason that catamarans are more expensive than monohulls is the fact that catamaran buyers have to purchase two hulls, two engines, and two of all of the components that help make an engine work.

Traditional sailboats and large powerboats with one engine don’t have this cost issue.

On top of this, a catamaran is much wider than a monohull, and thus you have more space to build and equip.

On the other hand, once you’ve purchased the boat, you do get to enjoy the benefits of having two of everything.  We’ll talk about the advantages of this further down in this post.

Maintenance Cost Makes A Difference

The maintenance on a catamaran is also more expensive than the maintenance on a monohull boat.  This goes back to the fact that there is twice as much of everything to maintain.

Catamaran owners will need to do preventative maintenance on two different engines, and they’ll have two hulls and a large deck area to clean and maintain as well.  If they’re getting the bottom of the boat treated, they’ll have to do this twice (once for each hull).

Even the interior components can usually be found twice.

Each cabin will usually have a head in it, so you’ll have at least two toilets and sinks to maintain, which obviously has its plusses and minuses.

One positive aspect of this is that catamaran owners do have the option of deferring some of their maintenance.  For example, if one head is no longer functioning properly, you always have the second one that you can use.

It also adds a bit of safety as well.

This is because while the catamaran does have two engines to maintain, the owner does have power even if one of the engines happens to go down.

Some catamaran owners also like to point out that maintenance may not have to be done as frequently.  This is because the engines don’t have to work quite as hard, and other items like additional bathrooms and sinks might only be used half as much.

How Much Space Do You Need?

A catamaran has more space than a monohull.  This is because the boat is wider, and it has a much larger deck area.  It also has twice as many hulls, so you have more overall space between the two of them.

The additional space is great for people looking to throw parties on their boats.

Most boat owners would agree that the catamaran is usually the party boat of choice at the docks.

Even if you aren’t into throwing parties, the extra space can still be nice for relaxing on the deck or getting a suntan.  The wide-open space also makes it easy to use the boat as a fishing platform.

Additionally, you have more space for stuff like surfboards, rafts, and other items that can easily clutter up the deck of a monohull.  Even fishing can be easier from a catamaran as the deck provides plenty of space between different anglers.

Catamaran owners also have additional space for carrying fresh water and adding generators and solar panels.

Interior space is generally more plentiful on a catamaran, and luxury catamarans have an easier time fitting large items like washers and dryers inside of them.  You can have these on larger monohulls as well, but it will be harder to make them fit than it is in a catamaran.

On the other hand, all of the additional space means the catamaran owner has more space to maintain and clean.  Also, all of the additional items that can be brought onto the boat will make it heavier.  A heavier boat will use more fuel, and it will travel more slowly.

Living Quarters Vary Between The Two

The living quarters on a catamaran are much different than they are on a monohull.  Most people would agree that the berths in a monohull are much more spacious than in a catamaran.

A monohull offers people the opportunity to have a large bed with space on either side to walk around it.  This is great for couples who want to get out of bed without waking up their partner.

Catamarans, on the other hand, have the advantage of being able to offer large above-deck salon areas.  The galleys, the dining areas, and the living areas can all be above-deck, while the two hulls can provide heads and berths.

Some boat owners say that living in a monohull is akin to living in a basement apartment .  Other boat owners prefer the monohull because it brings them closer to the water and gives them the feeling of being at sea.

Privacy Can Be Prioritized On Catamarans

A catamaran offers up many different living areas that people can take advantage of.  For example, each hull will typically have its own bathroom and bedroom.

This gives each sleeping area complete privacy from the other.

The living quarters are usually up on the deck, so early risers can wake up and move to these quarters without waking up the others.

The same holds for night owls.  A night owl can stay up late without bothering the people who want to retire to their beds earlier.

With two hulls, large catamaran owners can hire a crew and give them their own hull to live in so that there is separation between the cruisers and the crew.  This is a wonderful advantage for honeymooners looking to have their own space.

The downside to all of this, of course, is that sometimes a family may not want the additional privacy.  For example, a family with small children might not want their children in a different hull than they are.

Additionally, the extra privacy can make it hard for people on the boat to communicate.  This could become a big problem in the event of an emergency.

For this reason, it is often recommended that each hull have a radio in it so that the occupants can quickly communicate with each other.  Remember, even in inland areas, cell phone reception may not be very good inside the boat hulls.

Recreation In a Monohull vs. a Catamaran

Most sailors agree that sailing a monohull boat is much more exhilarating than sailing a catamaran.  Traditional sailboats heel, and sailors get instant feedback while they’re sailing.  For the most part, catamarans stay stable, and you don’t get the same feeling with the movement of the wind and the water.

When it comes to monohull powerboats, you have the advantage of being able to pull water skiers, kneeboarders, and tubers with ease, as long as the boat has the power and a planing hull.  A power catamaran usually doesn’t have the speed or maneuverability to pull off these recreational opportunities because they are displacement hull designs.

Catamarans excel in more leisurely recreational activities.  A catamaran makes a great party deck as well as a great cruising deck.  Catamaran owners can comfortably walk around a catamaran without having to worry that the boat might knock them over the next time it decides to heel.  This allows boaters to sit and talk with one another comfortably.

A catamaran can also be used as a beaching vessel.  This makes it a great platform for people looking to go swimming or fishing around sand bars and other shallow water areas.  It also makes it a great boat for sailors looking to sail a larger boat on a river or lake known for having shallow areas.

Swimming and Diving

Swimming and diving off of a catamaran are usually much easier than doing the same from a monohull.  The wide stance of the two hulls offers boat designers the option to put in staircases at the back of both hulls.

In between these staircases, some boats will have an additional diving platform and/or a dedicated frame for pieces of equipment and dinghy storage.  This makes catamarans great for swimmers, snorkelers, and divers.

On the other hand, modern monohull sailboats can also have good transom stairs for easy access to the dinghy and swimming.  Both types of boats can easily travel far out to sea, giving boaters the option of diving in areas that can’t be accessed from beaches and developed areas.

Boat Draft In Shallow Waters

For the uninitiated, the boat’s draft refers to how deep the boat’s hull sits within the water.

A monohull typically sits deep within the water, while a catamaran sits much higher on the water.  This is why we stated that a catamaran is good for shallow waters.

The advantage of having a boat that can go into shallow waters isn’t restricted to just recreational activities like swimming and fishing.  A boat that can go into shallow water is safer to operate in areas where a boat with a deeper draft might become damaged.

Additionally, a catamaran has more stability on calm waters.  This helps make a catamaran more comfortable to relax or sleep on while at anchor or the dock.

The deeper draft of a monohull boat has its advantages as well.  A deeper draft provides more stability in rough waters and allows a boat to go further into the sea.

For this reason, many coastal cruisers will prefer catamarans, while many ocean voyagers will prefer monohull boats.  In fact, some areas of the Caribbean and the Florida Keys can be off-limits to boats with deep drafts as it simply isn’t safe for the boat to navigate these waters.

This isn’t to say that you can’t navigate these waters in a monohull boat, but you will have to be cautious depending on how deep your monohull’s boat draft is.  You wouldn’t have this issue in a catamaran.

Stability On The Sea

A catamaran offers a lot more stability in shallow waters, in calm waters, at the dock, and anchorage.  This makes the boat great for cruising and for relaxing in port.

A monohull offers a lot more stability in rough waters.

This makes this boat great for heading out to sea and for navigating vast distances.

Safety Issues To Consider

Both catamarans and monohulls can be built to navigate the waters they were made for safely.  This will be determined more by the boat’s category designation rather than the type of boat.

However, each boat deals with unsafe situations in different ways.  For instance, a monohull boat is likely to right itself if it is capsized.

This means that even in rough seas, you’re unlikely to find yourself permanently capsized.

The downside to this is that should you become completely swamped from a capsize in a monohull boat, you are much more likely to sink.  In fact, if there is a hull breach on a monohull boat, your boat could sink.

Catamarans are said to be unsinkable.  This isn’t completely true, but it is very unlikely that a catamaran will sink.  Even if a hull is breached, you still have a second hull to keep the catamaran afloat.

However, a catamaran can’t right itself.  If you capsize your catamaran, it will stay capsized.

One other safety concern to consider is that a monohull sailboat will heel while a catamaran will not.  This increases the chances that someone could fall off the boat or onto the deck in a monohull boat.

Catamarans Are Faster Than Monohull Boats

A catamaran is faster than the average monohull boat.

This is because they face less water resistance, and their narrow hulls don’t have to deal with their own bow waves as a monohull does.

Of course, catamarans aren’t always faster.  Old cruising catamarans may not go faster than 8 knots, and modern monohulls can exceed 10 knots.

Monohull boats tend to sail downwind and in choppy seas better than catamarans.  This gives them a speed advantage during ocean voyages.

We have a separate post with complete average speeds per type of catemaran . It’s a must read if you are at all concerned about speed!

Fuel Consumption Considerations

Catamarans have two engines to burn fuel, which can drive up fuel costs.

However, a catamaran is lighter on the water, so it usually takes less energy to move a catamaran.  This means you’ll end up using less fuel in a catamaran than you would in a monohull.

On top of this, catamarans can decide to use just one engine in low wind areas.  This further decreases the amount of fuel that a catamaran consumes.

These rules only apply to calm waters.

A monohull navigates waters with high waves and strong winds much more efficiently than a catamaran.  In this case, you’ll use less fuel in a monohull than you would in a catamaran.

Sailing Differences To Notice

Sailing a monohull boat can be exhilarating.  These boats can glide through choppy waters, and you get to feel the motion of the boat as the sea rushes by the cockpit and the wind causes you to heel.

This type of sailing also provides instant feedback as you’ll know what you need to do with the sails as you’ll feel what is going on through the boat’s motion.

Sailors all over the world have been using monohull sailboats for years, and you’ll find plenty of outlets for recreational sailing with a monohull sailboat.

Sailing catamarans do not heel like a monohull sailboat.

These boats, therefore, do not provide the sailor with instant feedback.  Also, if you incorrectly sail a catamaran, you do risk capsizing the boat more easily.

Training Can Be Quite Hard

Sailing a catamaran and sailing a monohull boat are two different experiences.  People looking to sail either should probably get professional training.

Obtaining this training will always be easier with a monohull boat.

This is because monohulls are more popular, so you’ll have more instructors available to you.

Do You (Or Your Friends) Get Seasick?

People who are prone to getting seasick easily might want to consider a catamaran.  A catamaran provides much more stability in calm waters, and you get a lot less movement.

On the other hand, people who are not prone to getting seasick might prefer a monohull in choppy waters.

This is because a monohull will deal with deep and choppy waters with high waves much better than a catamaran will.

As a result, a catamarans movement can seem extreme under these types of conditions.  People who have never gotten seasick before can end up sick under these conditions.

Here’s a separate article we wrote with everything you should know about seasickness on Catamarans . There are some things you can do and some things you should know!

Docking Is (Usually) Easier With A Monohull Boat

Docking a catamaran can be a difficult endeavor.

This is because catamarans are often too wide to be docked within the slips located in central areas of a marina.

Because of this, they need to be docked at the end of the dock.  This leaves them with fewer spots to dock.  It also makes docking more expensive.

Catamaran owners traveling through areas that are unlikely to have many catamarans in them may find it difficult to find a dock at all.  This is true in areas of the northern Atlantic where monohulls are much more popular than catamarans.

Storage Issues To Consider

Even storing a catamaran can be more difficult.  This is because storage facilities often do not have the equipment to get a catamaran out of the water.

The wide width of these boats requires special lifts, and not all boat marinas will have them.

Storage facilities that do get the catamaran out of the water will often charge more money for it.  They’ll charge additional fees for taking the catamaran out of the water, and they’ll charge additional fees for the actual storage of the boat as well.

Redundancy And Backup Equipment

We touched upon this earlier, but it is worth repeating that catamarans have many redundancy built into them.  This can be a big advantage when it comes to safety.

For example, if one rudder becomes inoperable, the boat can still be steered with the other one.  If one engine becomes inoperable, the boat can still be driven with the other one.

In extreme cases, a hull could become damaged, and you could still stay afloat because the other hull will keep the boat safely above water.  These safety advantages can save lives and keep people from becoming stranded out at sea.

The primary downside is the maintenance issue that we mentioned earlier.  All of these redundant components will need to be maintained.  As a result, maintenance costs will be close to twice as expensive in a catamaran.

Cooking Is Easier On Catamarans

Cooking on a catamaran is usually easier than it is on a monohull.  The main reason for this is that a catamaran doesn’t heel like a monohull, so you don’t have to worry as much about things falling over.

This not only makes cooking easier, but it makes cooking safer as well.

Additionally, catamaran galleys tend to have more space in them to move around.  Also, they are often up on the deck, so you don’t have to climb in and out of the hull with your dinner in hand.

Dinghy Storage

Monohulls and catamarans can both hold dinghies.  The larger the boat, the larger the dinghy can be.

However, catamarans have a wide area at the rear of the boat that is perfect for holding dinghies.

This makes getting in and out of the dinghy easier.  Also, people can often have larger dinghies on their catamarans because the boat’s stern is so accommodating.

Power Generation Is Easy On A Catamaran

A catamaran has a lot of space for solar panels and wind turbines.  Rigid panels can be placed in areas that won’t be walked on, like overtop of the bimini, and flexible panels can be placed in areas where the panels might end up getting stepped on.

The width of a catamaran even gives them more opportunities to put hydro generators into the water.

This means catamarans can generate more power than the average monohull boat can generate.

On the other hand, a monohull usually has less powered items to worry about.  Monohulls need less power to operate at full capacity, so you may not need all of the additional space for generating power.

Ventilation Issues To Think About

Some people feel that monohull boats don’t offer enough ventilation.  This is especially true in warmer areas of the world.

Catamarans also lack ventilation within their hulls, but fortunately for them, much of the living space is located up on deck.  This gives catamarans an edge when it comes to cruising in warm weather.

On the other hand, monohull owners aren’t exposed to the cold winds that you might find up on deck in harsher climates. 

This lack of airflow may actually be of benefit in this instance.

Some people find monohulls to be better looking than catamarans and vice versa.

This all comes down to personal preference, so you’ll have to decide for yourself which type of boat has the advantage in this case.

Some people think catamarans are the most elegant thing in the world while others prefer monohull boats as they look more classic.

Resale Value Is An Important Factor

If you read our extensive guide to boat depreciation per boat type , you know that no matter what boat you buy, it will always go down in value.  This is just a sad fact of boat ownership that people need to consider before buying a boat.

Many factors go into how much you’ll be able to get for your boat when you resell it.  These factors are the condition of the boat, the age of the boat, and the economy in general.  For example, people are less likely to want to buy boats during a recession.  This is especially true when it comes to smaller boats.

However, one additional factor that catamaran owners need to consider when thinking about resale value is the value of the dollar. 

People from the United States don’t have many American catamarans to choose from and will usually need to buy these overseas.

This means that a catamaran will be less expensive to buy when the dollar is strong compared to the Euro and more expensive to buy when the dollar is weaker in comparison.  This will affect the used market as well because higher values on new catamarans can help to bring up the value on the used market.

With a monohull boat, you may not have to consider situations like this as there are makers of monohull boats all over the world.

Don’t Let The Length Trick You!

One thought to keep in mind when comparing monohull boats and catamarans is that their different shapes account for different space advantages.

For example, a 40-foot long catamaran will have much more cubic space than a 40-foot long monohull.

Because of this, when comparing boats, you should look at the cubic space rather than the length. In this case, you may be comparing a 48-foot long monohull with a 40-foot long catamaran.

When you compare the two types of boats in this manner, the price differences aren’t quite as large, and the comparison is fairer.  It also may make the operating and maintenance costs more similar.

This is an important distinction to make because the length of the boats can trick you!

Consider Trying Both (Before Buying)

Boats can be an expensive purchase, so it makes sense to try them out before you decide to make your purchase.

Rent each type of boat and use it on the types of waters that you intend to cruise on the most.

Try the boat out in different weather conditions as well, and don’t be afraid to do multiple rentals before you make your final choice.  The time and money invested into making sure you get the boat you really want will be more than worth it in the end.

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O Yachts Sail and Power catamarans

Make your dreams come true, o yachts is specialized in semi custom, sail and power catamarans. built on female molds, with high tech composite infusion (carbon / kevlar / glass), we then customize it all upon your demand and expectations. we are a clear alternative to mass production and focus for a year on your project to make dreams come true., baltic quality, management is french and manufacturing is on the baltic sea (latvia) near riga. with excellent know how and large production facilities, o yachts produces advanced catamarans, such as the awarded class 6. winner in 2021 with multihulls world  “european multihull of the year” and “readers choice”., sail catamarans  , power catamarans, subscribe to our newsletter.

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O-Yachts Class 4

The O-Yachts Class 4 is the smaller sister to the Class 6, designed by Érik Lerouge and built in Latvia under the direction of Dan Levy. The forward profile is classic Lerouge with the bowsprit and curved forward beam in carbon, fine, straight bows, and a shapely nacelle.

Clifford Denn added his input in designing the rounded coachroof to minimise windage and the overall curved look of the saloon;

Lerouge Fast Cat Érik Lerouge studied in Southampton in the seventies, and designed his first catamaran : Inoui, not long after. He has successfully raced his designs in events all over the world including Speed Weeks, Bol d’Or, Trophee des Multicoques, the MULTI 2000 Challenge, Transat des Alizes, and the Sydney Harbour 18 footers Worlds.

The Class 4 is semi-customisable and is available with keels (like the Nautitech 44 Open but faster) or daggerboards (like the Outremer 45 but lighter).

Daggerboards give you optimum performance upwind in light airs (another 5 degrees into wind), fixed keels are safer in the even of a collision under the water, and free up room down below without sacrificing too much performance, especially when the wind picks up. In over 15 kts of wind you won’t notice much difference in performance

Other options include a rotating mast (carbon), fixed carbon or fixed aluminium mast with different sail plans.

Érik Lerouge has done a fine job on the hydrodynamic shaping of the hulls: this is a quick boat. A class 4 was the first placed multihull in the 2014 ARC with a maximum logged speed of 27kts. This boat is about as far away as you can get from a Bali Catspace Sail or other production cruising catamarans. She competes against yachts like the Outremer 45 and is quite a bit lighter (7.5T versus 8.2T)

Construction

This area is worth some discussion, as it is one of the aspects of the Class 4 that differentiates it from the competition.

The nacelle, hulls, deck and coachroof are sandwich infused and laminated by hand, and are solidly assembled. A layer of Kevlar is used to strengthen  the underwater sections. Forward beam, main bulkhead, compression beam and bowsprit are all built in carbon fiber, making a stiff, light structure. Everything up front is hand laminated to optimise strength and rigidity in this area.

With a 7.2T light displacement, the Class 4 is one of the lightest bluewater sailing catamarans on the market:  a real sailing machine, with safety at sea a key part of the philosophy.

Carbon is used as standard on the front beam, bowsprit, mast support, mast beam. They also add a Kevlar shield (center to peak / 8inch over water line).

Carbon Forward beam / Bowsprit Erik LEROUGE insisted on a complete carbon beam connection between the hulls and the central link to the boat. On most catamrans, the forward beam is  a bolted 7 inch tube. On the Class 4, you have 28 Layers of carbon linking to the hull side and another 28 layers of carbon from bow pole to platform along the trampoline center. This helps to give the boat its high rigidity and low weight.

Hand lamination on infused panels All non structural panels also help with the rigity (sofa, stairs, floors, kitchen, cabinets). The panels are first built on an infusion table and are then hand laminated before fairing/sanding to make the Class 4 as solid as a rock.

The key point here is that O-Yachts are unique in this market segment in offering a carbon reinforced structure as standard. Carbon is used for the front and central beams, bowsprit, mast support and beam, and aft beam. As standard, they also use kevlar as a shield on hull.

Living Space

The saloon is very comfortable (4.5m by 3.15m) with plenty of space for cooking, navigating and lounging: the furniture is constructed  in sandwich with aluminum trim and a quality finish. The room inside is somewhere between an Outremer 45 and a 51.

The nav station faces forwards to port and looks very business like.

Semi-Custom There are custom options available for the saloon door (large central or side sliding door), the layout of the saloon and the bimini (long or short).

Down below, both aft cabins have large berths (1.40m/1.60m x 2m).

The other unique design feature to the Class 4 is the aft platform (4.5m x 1.1m). While this does reduce the area of the aft cockpit, it means that you can hoist your dinghy safely onto the boat while under way and it doubles up as a sunbathing area / diving platform while at anchor.

Traditional davits are also an option for the tender.

Carbon Davits Option

A nice touch on the carbon davits is that they have been designed to tuck your tender into so that it is really secure under way

These boats are strong and very rigid and the systems have been set up for easy management by a couple.

An Efficient Design The halyards and reefing lines are tidily managed at the mast with two winches, one being electric. Friction on the lines is minimised: although you will need to leave the cockpit to shorten sail, this set up means that you are able to lock the lines close to the action. This is Form Follows Function design.

There are 2 options for the mainsail, with a bigger Premium version available for owners looking for higher performance. The baot is powered up front with a self tacking-solent and an overlapping genoa that flies off the bowsprit. These should power you along at true wind speeds and even above.

The sail plan is traditional, but there are also plenty of options for flying lighter sails from the bowsprit. A carbon Axon rotating mast option boosts the power with a larger square-topped mainsail and along with fiber shrouds and high quality fittings, the whole package is one of an over engineered design with that trademark of Lerouge designs: low windage and high rigidity

That rotating mast (an option) also makes it easier to reef just off the wind with the solent semi-powered by the way.

In light winds, this boat is designed to sail faster than the wind from 3 to 9kts, so you should be sailing more and motoring less. When the wind is blowing from 10 to 15kts, you will be cruising over 10kts, and in 20-25kts, you will be sailing from 14 to 19kts with shortened sail.

Class 4 Sail Plans

Options include a cruising aluminium mast, a performance fixed carbon mast and a race rotating carbon mast.

Heading aft, the cockpit  feels very safe with it’s wrap around bench. There are options for a full bimini to maximise protection or a shortened version for those who like the maximum view of the sails. There’s a fixed table that seats 8 to port with a large opening window to connect to the galley. The area to starboard has been kept clear (Dan calls this the dancefloor) and the most popular helm position is just a short hop up in the main bulkhead poistion starboard.

Power Options

There are 3 options on the Class 4:

• 100% Diesel : 2 Yanmar 30hp on saildrive.
• Smart Hybrid : 1 Yanmar 30hp on saildrive + 1 electric engine (10 or 15kW).
• 100% Electric: 2 electric engines from 10 to 15kW. With a Diesel 48V generator for safety.

With the diesels, you should hit 7kts cruising on 1 engine in a good sea state.

Electric Power Two Class 4s have already been configured with electric 10kW Ocean Volt engines that push the boat along at 6kts with 6kW in good conditions with one engine. The OceanVolt engines have a “ServoProp” solution for regeneration. The self pitch propeller is also 10 to 15% more efficient when motoring.

There are also options for more advanced solutions such as retractable pods with RIM BlueNav engines that rotate 360°.

The O-Yachts Class 4 is a 45 foot catamaran designed for safety at speed by one of the legends of multihull design: Erik Lerouge, and built under the direction of Dan Levy: a fanatic on the details. With her semi-carbon construction as standard, this is a well organised, strong and rigid catamaran that gives you plenty of bang for your buck. The target on this yacht is 250 safe mile days in good conditions, in the same bracket as a Fusion 40 catamaran or a Schionning but with a more robust construction.

You can find further information at O-Yachts .

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Catamaran vs Monohull: Pros, Cons & Main Differences

By: B.J. Porter Editor

The choice of catamaran vs monohull ultimately comes down to preference. What’s critical for one buyer may mean little to another. If your partner refuses to set foot on a boat which heels, that’s a deal-breaker for a monohull. But if you’re passionate about classic looks and styling, your quest for beauty may override other considerations and rule out catamarans.

We can’t tell you whether a catamaran or a monohull is right for you. But we can help you with the pros and cons of each for your search.

The Strengths and Pros

No matter your choice of monohull or catamaran, there are safe, comfortable, and excellent sailing boats of both types. Neither has an exclusive lock on any strength, and both sail safely and comfortably. But there’s a different emphasis on how they do it. No matter what you are trying to do – sail fast, cruise the world, or just host a crowd at the dock, there are monohulls and catamarans that can work for any requirement.

Catamaran advantages

Space and comfort: Two hulls and a wide beam make a very stable platform with lots of volume in the saloon and cockpit. Most living space is above the waterline, with wonderful light and airflow. Cabins in the hulls offer better privacy and isolation, usually with standing headroom.

Straight line speed: Most catamarans are faster in straight-line sailing speed (1) that similar sized or even longer monohulls. Without a lead keel, they’re lighter, so more driving force from the sails converts to speed, and narrower hull forms may have less drag than wide hulls with deep keels. Some heavier cruising catamarans may not be faster, especially if they keep rig size small for ease of handling.

Stability : The beam of two hulls with a bridge deck leads to much higher stability and resistance to roll (2). Waves in an anchorage that induce violent roll in a monohull may make a catamaran bounce or bob. Under sail, catamarans do not heel appreciably even when powered up.

Twin engines. : With one engine in forward and balanced in reverse, most catamarans can spin in a circle in place and make sharp adjustments to the boat’s direction. If you have an engine failure, you also have a second engine, giving a safety edge when you can’t sail. 

Monohull advantages

Upwind sailing performance: While catamarans have the edge at straight-line speed, monohulls sail closer to the wind. When you’re racing or you have to sail upwind to get to the next island, this can get you there faster.

Sailing feel and responsiveness : The “feel” of sailing a monohull is much better. With a single hull, you’ll feel wind pressure and trim adjustments immediately for a more responsive helm and a better ability to sail to the wind.

Maneuvering under sail: Monohulls are quite nimble tacking and turning under sail, and there’s less risk of slow or missed tacks.

Righting Moment: The primary offshore safety argument for monohulls is their ability to right when capsized. The heavy keel keeps the boat deck up when sailing, and most monohulls will come back upright even after a complete capsize.

Cargo and Loading: A higher displacement boat with thousands of pounds of lead hung from the bottom isn’t going to be as affected by loading as a relatively light multihull.

Aesthetics: This is subjective, as many catamaran enthusiasts love how they look. Classic sailboat styling, with swept sleek looks, springy sheer lines, and all the “right” proportions are more common on monohulls.

Also read: The 5 Best Electric Anchor Winches

Weaknesses and Cons

Like strengths, weaknesses are relative; just because one class has a strength doesn’t mean the other doesn’t. There are spacious monohulls and beautiful catamarans, just like there are cramped catamarans and unattractive monohulls. The differences have to be highlighted relative to each other, and the weaknesses of one are most apparent compared to the strengths of the other.

Catamaran Cons

Upwind performance: Cats don’t sail as close to the wind, but they make up for it by sailing faster off the wind. You’ll sail a less direct course upwind. Even if you get in at the same time, you’ll have to sail farther.

Less responsive sailing: Two hulls with two rudders and a very broad platform reduce the helm feel when sailing, cutting responsiveness sailing in shifting wind and wave conditions. It also makes tacking slower.

No-flip zone: It is very difficult, but not impossible, to flip a large catamaran (3). But if a catamaran capsizes, it will not flip back over by itself.

Large in marina/close quarters: You have two problems in marinas. Beamy cats are tough to maneuver in tight spaces because they’re big and visibility is tough over the hulls. And many marinas charge extra because the wide beam extends into the next slip. The good news is that twin engines make tight maneuvering easier.

Price point: Catamarans are more difficult to build and need more materials. This is directly reflected in the cost of the boats.

Monohull Cons

They are heavier: Every large monohull needs a keel for stability (4). They can not sail or stay upright without thousands of pounds of ballast, and this makes them heavier and slows them down. Tiny monohulls can use a centerboard or daggerboard for stability, but most boats big enough to sleep on need ballast.

Darker interiors : Most monohull living space is lower in the boat, where you can’t put enormous windows for light and circulation. It’s very hard to get space as bright and airy as catamaran saloons.

Less living space: With one hull and no bridge deck saloon, most monohulls feel cramped compared to spacious catamarans.

More prone to rolling motions : Only one hull makes monohulls susceptible to rolling in waves, and the movement can be quite uncomfortable.

Heeling: Tipping is just part of sailing monohulls upwind and is unavoidable. It can be reduced on some other points of sail, but not eliminated. Many people, especially non-sailors and new sailors, find this movement uncomfortable or distressing.

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Catamaran Vs Yacht

Learn the difference between a catamaran vs yacht charter, what yacht should you charter catamaran vs monohull, what is better to charter a catamaran vs yacht.

Those new to yacht charter and catamaran charter will often ask, what is Better to charter – a Catamaran or Yacht? To assess the catamaran vs yacht question, we need to understand the main differences. A catamaran is, strictly speaking, a yacht with two hulls and a yacht in this context and a sailing vessel with one hull, otherwise known as a monohull.

It’s easily arguable that a sailing yacht was more fun to sail, takes up less room when mooring, and is cheaper per berth than a catamaran. Alternatively, a more stable catamaran offers more space and is cheaper per sq. foot of space.

Until recently, the advent of catamarans in the America’s Cup competitions would show that catamarans are not the slowcoaches they were when you consider the c atamaran vs yacht debate. All catamarans are very nice to sail just off the wind, which will leave some saying that my characterisation is a little skewed. Yet, I would say, in general, for charter catamarans vs charter yachts, the comparison holds.

Your Answer Will Depend on Many Different Variables Such as:

• Advantages of Catamaran Vs Yacht
• Disadvantages of Catamaran Vs Yacht
• Getting Into The Detail
• Thoughts on a Monohull Charter
• How to Book

Here are our 5 Reasons to Hire a Catamaran Vs Yacht

The Pros of a Catamaran Vs Yacht

The 5 reasons to hire a catamaran versus a yacht.

• Space. When weighing the Catamaran Vs Yacht debate, space is one of the key factors by far, but you’ll also see this appoear in our list of disadvantages too. In terms of squarefootage, if you like to pack generaously, or have planty of space for sunbathing, then Catamarans vs Yacht is for you.
• Cabins.  Along the same theme, Cabins are generally much more spacious than monohulls. The locker storage space is always much greater than that of a monohull. The greatest advantage is the considerably larger ports (windows), which, when sailing in August, not only gives you a great view but comes in super handy to let in the breeze.
• Stability.  Catamarans are notoriously more stable than that their counterpart. This can be beneficial for new or inexperienced sailors who haven’t got their sea legs yet or are prone to seasickness. Due to their two hull design, cats do not heel over more than 5 degrees. This means you don’t have to check that plates are not sliding off the table continuously!
• Draft.  Catamaran’s shallow draft (depth of the hull and keel under the water) has some advantages. This is a particular advantage in areas with shallow waters, thus allowing you to anchor closer to shore.
• Power. Catamarans have twin engines. This, combined with the shallow draft, allows the yacht to cruise at higher speeds, whether under sail or using its engines. The two engines also allow greater manoeuvrability in confined areas or spaces, great in marinas or when picking up mooring buoys.

The Cons of Catamaran Vs Yacht

Four things you might want to consider with a catamaran vs yacht.

• Mooring . Due to the width (and size) of a catamaran, often, you have to pay a lot more to book a berth in a harbour for the night. However, some authors can be quoted as saying that anchoring in a cat is easier.
• Upwind Sailing. Catamarans don’t sail up-wind well! Performance cats make up for this with boat speed and by employing daggerboards to prevent leeway (sideways movement). It will be fun trying to sail upwind, but you might not make much progress!
• Steering.  Sailors have noted that the helm (be it the tiller or a wheel) is not as responsive as a monohull, you don’t get the same feedback (weather helm) on a cat, and it can feel ‘limp’ to sail.
• The Feel.  Most charter cats are built for comfort, so the sailing can be a little disappointing unless you’re on a beam reach.

The Pros of a Yacht vs Catamaran

Getting into the detaila - monohull vs catamaran advantages.

Monohulls offer the ultimate sailing experience for many sailors. Here’s why:

• Dynamic. When considering a monohull vs catamaran, remember monohulls can tack quickly, thus making them a lot more manoeuvrable than a cat. Nothing beats the rhythmic feeling of sailing whilst heeling over.
• Responsive.  They are also fairly responsive to the helm.
• Up-Wind.  These vessels are much more capable up-wind than most catamarans. They can sail much closer angle to the wind than a cat.
• Budget. Monohulls are cheaper to buy (fewer materials) than catamarans, often aimed at the luxury market and significantly less to charter. Berth for berth, cabin for cabin, a monohull is usually better value for money.
• Berthing costs. With twin engines, expect to put a little more fuel in your cat. The cost of berthing in a harbour or at a marina tends to be significantly lower due to the reduced beam (width).

The Last Case for a Monohull!

There are good reasons to consider a catamaran vs yacht, but if you love being up close and personal with your crew and you love dynamic sailing, here’s the big advantages.

• Snug.  Modern charter monohulls are wide with high ceilings and have plenty of space in cabins and for stowage. That said, the usable space on a monohull is much less than that of a catamaran.
• Heeling.  The boat heeling or “leaning” over is perfectly normal and something you get used to quickly. This can be tricky for the young and old and makes handling the boat a little more adventurous.
• Draft.  Due to the deeper keel (the stabilising fin below the yacht), you cannot sail in shallow waters and must be more vigilant of your depth.

Learn More About Chartering a Catamaran Vs Monohull

As you can see, there are many pros and cons to consider when deciding between a catamaran vs yacht. Whilst the debate between monohull sailors and multi-hull fanatics will rage, it largely depends on what you are using the boat for, where, your budget, and your crew.

If you have the opportunity to decide if you prefer a catamaran vs monohull, by sailing both types of boats, then take it so you can assess the benefits of both wonderful sailing boats.

If you are planning a sailing trip and are a little unsure, why not get in touch, and we can help you decide what is best for your location and crew.

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Catamaran vs. Monohull Fishing Boats - Which is Better

Dec 14, 2023

less than a min

When selecting a fishing boat, anglers face a significant choice that can impact their experience on the water. The type of boat you choose - be it a catamaran or a traditional monohull - plays a pivotal role in defining your fishing adventures. Both catamaran and monohull boats have distinct features and advantages, and understanding these differences is key to finding a vessel that aligns with your fishing style and preferences. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just beginning to navigate the world of fishing, we'll help guide delves into the nuances of catamaran and monohull fishing boats.

Catamaran Fishing Boats: Stability Meets Performance

What are catamaran fishing boats.

Catamaran fishing boats, with their distinctive multihull design, are gaining acclaim among anglers for their exceptional stability and comfort, particularly in challenging sea conditions. The dual-hull structure of these boats not only reduces water resistance, leading to improved fuel efficiency but also ensures a smoother ride. For instance, the "Offshore Fishing Catamarans," which typically range from 20 to 40 feet in length, are equipped with features tailored for serious anglers, including fish boxes, live wells, and rod holders. These boats are adept at handling rough offshore waters, making them ideal for pursuing species like king mackerel or wahoo.

Offshore Fishing Catamarans

Design : Power catamarans , designed for offshore use, are equipped with features like fish boxes, live wells, and rod holders, essential for serious anglers.

Handling Rough Waters : They excel in handling choppy offshore waters, making them suitable for trolling species like king mackerel or wahoo.

Versatility : Not limited to saltwater, they are also effective in large freshwater systems like the Great Lakes.

Comfort for Extended Trips : Many models offer cabins for overnight stays, enhancing their appeal for longer fishing expeditions.

Average Length : 20 to 40 feet

Propulsion : Twin outboard engines

Capacity : 8 to 10 people

Hull Type : Multi-hull

Another notable example is the "Small Fishing Catamaran," averaging between 8 and 14 feet. These smaller variants offer enhanced stability and buoyancy compared to traditional flat-bottom boats and are particularly suitable for shallow water fishing. Their lightweight and easy-to-transport nature, combined with the option for paddle or small outboard motor propulsion, make them a great entry-level choice for new boaters.

Small Fishing Catamaran

Ideal for Beginners : These boats offer an entry-level option with better stability and buoyancy than flat-bottom boats.

Shallow Draft : Their shallow draft allows easy beaching and shore pull-up, ideal for coastal fishing.

Average Length : 8 to 14 feet

Propulsion : Outboard engine or paddle

Capacity : 1 to 3 people

Both types of catamarans exemplify the blend of practical design and angler-centric features, making them a compelling choice for a wide range of fishing activities.

Monohull Fishing Boats: The Traditional Choice

Monohull fishing boats, revered as the traditional choice in the angling world, have long been the backbone of the fishing community. Characterised by their single-hull design, these boats offer a classic approach to fishing, blending time-honoured maritime traditions with modern advancements. Monohulls are known for their straightforward handling and predictable performance, making them a familiar and reliable option for many anglers. Their design allows for deep V-hulls that can cut through waves, offering a smooth ride and a distinct fishing experience. 

Advantages of Monohull Fishing Boats

Space Utilisation : Monohulls offer a larger single space below the waterline, allowing for bigger cabins and storage areas.

Roll Period : They have a slower roll period, which means the motion is less abrupt compared to some catamarans.

Predictability : Handling characteristics are more consistent and predictable.

Variety and Resale : There's a broader selection of monohulls available, and they tend to be easier to resell.

Monohull Disadvantages

Stability Issues : They can lean significantly with weight shifts on the deck.

Bowrise and Steering : Monohulls experience noticeable bowrise when coming onto plane and may exhibit bow steering.

Catamaran vs. Monohull: Which is Better for Fishing?

Handling and maneuverability.

Catamarans are highly manoeuvrable due to their dual engines and hulls, offering better control, which is crucial when fishing in tight spots or near structures.

Monohulls have predictable handling, but their performance can vary significantly based on the design and sea conditions.

Space and Amenities

Catamarans provide more living space, making them suitable for extended trips and anglers who prioritise comfort.

Monohulls have more space below the waterline, which can be advantageous for storage and cabin size.

Draft and Accessibility

Catamarans, with their shallow draft, allow access to areas that might be challenging for some monohulls.

Monohulls might have limitations in shallow waters but often perform better in deep sea conditions.

Economy and Maintenance

Catamarans are generally more fuel-efficient, but they may have higher maintenance costs due to their dual systems.

Monohulls are traditionally less expensive to purchase and maintain but might not offer the same fuel efficiency as catamarans.

Tailoring to Your Fishing Style

The decision between a catamaran and a monohull fishing boat should be based on your specific fishing style, preferred locations, and comfort requirements. Catamarans are ideal for anglers seeking stability and comfort in various water conditions, while monohulls are suitable for those who prefer traditional handling and may not require extensive space. Ultimately, the right choice will enhance your fishing experience, ensuring safety, efficiency, and enjoyment on the water. Whether you're drawn to the traditional charm of monohulls or the stability of catamarans, TheBoatDB provides a user-friendly platform to assess each option side-by-side. Visit TheBoatDB to delve deeper into the specifics of each type and discover the boat that perfectly aligns with your fishing style and needs.

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Trimaran VS Catamaran – Which Boat Is Best?

If you’re planning to buy or charter a multihull boat, you might be wondering which one is better: trimaran or catamaran. Both have their pros and cons, and the decision ultimately depends on your needs and preferences. In this article, I’ll explain the differences between these two types of vessels to help you make the best choice for your needs.

Post updated: 10 November 2023

Table of Contents

Differences Between Trimarans and Catamarans?

If you’re in the market for a new vessel or plan a family vacation on the water, you might wonder what the differences are between a catamaran and a trimaran. 

Let’s see what they are:

A catamaran is a multihull vessel with two or twin hulls that are parallel to each other and fixed to a wide beam.

This design offers stability and speed, making it a popular choice for cruising long distances comfortably and even racing.

They also provide more interior space than trimarans, allowing for larger cabins and more storage.

When it comes to sailing performance, catamarans are known for their speed and agility.

Their twin hulls allow them to easily glide over the water, making them popular among boaters.

Cats are stable, fast, spacious, and super comfortable and are more stable at anchor than trimarans. However, catamarans tend to perform better in downwind conditions than in upwind conditions.

A trimaran is a multihull vessel that has three hulls. The two smaller outrigger hulls are attached to the center hull, which is larger and used for most of the boat’s functionality. 

This design offers even more stability than a catamaran, making it a great choice for those who want to sail in rough waters safely.

The three-hulled design makes them super stable, and as mentioned above, they can easily handle rough waters. They also have a smaller turning radius, making them easier to maneuver in tight spaces.

Another important thing to know about Trimarans is that they provide a decent degree of livability, but they fall short of catamarans in two regards. First, they heel more than cats, making it difficult to do things like cooking on board. Second, they support much less load than catamarans.

Pros and Cons of Catamarans and Trimarans

Before making a decision whether to sail a catamaran or a trimaran, there are pros and cons you must consider. Let’s see what there are:

• Stability: Catamarans have two hulls, which makes them extremely stable. This means that you are less likely to experience seasickness or feel the boat rocking in rough waters.
• Space: Catamarans have a lot of space both inside and outside the boat. This makes them great for large groups or families who want to spend time together without feeling cramped.
• Speed: While not as fast as trimarans, catamarans are still faster than monohulls . They perform better in downwind conditions than trimarans and are great for long-distance cruising in calm waters.
• Shallow Draft: Catamarans have a shallow draft, which allows them to enter shallow waters and anchor closer to shore.
• Cost: Depending on how well the Catamaran is equipped, it can be more expensive than trimarans. Not always, though.
• Harbor Cost: As catamarans have a very large beam, this means that a berth at the marina will be higher.
• Navigation: Catamarans tend to struggle sailing close to the wind .
• Speed:  Trimarans are known for being faster than cats and single-hull boats. They can easily reach high speeds and are great for racing or long-distance cruising.
• Stability:  Trimarans are more stable than catamarans due to their three hulls. 
• Space:  Trimarans are wide, but the interior is less spacious than catamarans.
• Safety:  Provide exceptional buoyancy. If a trimaran capsizes, there is almost no chance it will sink.
• Navigation: Trimarans can sail in any weather condition and perform much better upwind than cats.
• Berthing:  Trimarans are more difficult to maneuver in harbors, making finding a berth in crowded marinas more challenging.
• Maneuverability:  Trimarans require more ability from sailors to beach without difficulty than catamarans.
• Loading:  Trimarans struggle to carry as much weight as catamarans.
• Sailing: Trimarans require more effort and work on the deck.

Design and Structure

When it comes to design and structure, there are significant differences between trimarans and catamarans. Below, I’ll walk you through these two multi-hull vessels’ geometry, hydrodynamics, weight, and materials.

Geometry and Hydrodynamics

One of the most significant differences between trimarans and catamarans is their geometry. A trimaran has a central hull with two outriggers connected to a large beam, while a catamaran has two parallel hulls connected by a central platform.

This twin-hull design gives catamarans a unique sense of balance and stability. On the other hand, trimarans offer superior stability and adaptability in various water conditions thanks to their three-hulled design.

The central hull of a trimaran is typically longer and narrower than the hulls of a catamaran, which leads to better hydrodynamic performance.

Both trimarans and catamarans have different hydrodynamic resistance characteristics.

For instance, trimarans have less wetted surface area, which means they experience less drag as they move through the water. This feature makes trimarans faster than catamarans in rough weather conditions and high winds.

Performance and Speed

When it comes to performance and speed, there is a clear winner between trimarans and catamarans . Trimarans are known for their speed and are often faster than catamarans of the same size and weight. This is because of their unique design, which has speed and safety qualities that provide significant advantages over catamarans.

Trimarans have less hydrodynamic resistance than catamarans due to their narrower central hull, which allows them to slice through the water more efficiently in rough seas.

While catamarans are also fast, they often fall short of trimarans in terms of speed and performance. But that’s not always true in downwind conditions because cats are light, and their sails are positioned equivalent to the wind, making them faster than tris in downwind conditions.

Heeling and Capsizing

One of the biggest concerns when it comes to stability is heeling and capsizing. Heeling means the boat leans from one side to one side, while capsizing is when the boat flips over completely.

Both trimarans and catamarans heel, but trimarans provide greater stability and are less likely to capsize due to their three hulls. However, this doesn’t mean a trimaran can’t capsize.

In rough conditions, if a wave gets higher than half the size of the beam, the boat can flip over, but because trimarans have exceptional buoyancy, they float on the surface of the water and can serve as a rescue platform, but they won’t sink!

Comfort and Space

One important factor to consider when choosing between a cat and a tri is comfort and space. So, let’s look at these two types of boat’ accommodation: storage, cockpit, and living quarters.

Accommodation and Storage

One of the main advantages of catamarans over trimarans is the amount of space they offer. Catamarans typically have larger cabins and more storage space than trimarans. This makes them a great choice for longer trips, as you’ll have plenty of room to store all your gear and personal belongings.

Trimarans, on the other hand, have smaller cabins and less storage space. This can make the passengers feel a bit cramped, especially on longer trips. 

However, some trimarans do offer creative storage solutions, such as under-bunk storage compartments or overhead storage racks. Note that the latest models of trimarans are extremely spacious and offer as much comfort and space, if not more, than catamarans do.

Another difference between trimarans and catamarans is their weight. While trimarans can potentially be built lighter than some catamarans, catamarans are lighter on average due to having one fewer hull requiring structure and ballast.

The weight distribution of a trimaran is also different from a catamaran, with more weight concentrated in the central hull. This feature provides better stability and performance in rough seas and upwinds.

Catamarans, on the other hand, can support more load than trimarans. This feature makes them ideal for long-distance cruising and liveaboard lifestyles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: which has better resale value – trimarans or catamarans.

Resale values for both trimarans and catamarans can depend on factors such as the boat’s age, maintenance, and overall condition. Generally, catamarans have a larger market and may hold their value better due to higher demand, especially among cruisers and charter companies. However, a well-maintained trimaran can still attract buyers who value speed and performance.

Q: Which type of boat is more suitable for long-distance travel: trimaran or catamaran?

Both trimarans and catamarans are fantastic for long-distance travel. Still, catamarans are often preferred among sailors for extended cruising due to their larger living spaces and privacy on board. However, if speed is a critical factor for your journey, a trimaran might be a more attractive option.

Q: What factors should I consider when choosing between a trimaran and a catamaran?

When deciding between a trimaran and a catamaran, some key factors to consider include your intended use, performance expectations, available space, and budget. 

You should ask yourself:

• What are your primary sailing goals – speed, comfort, cruising, or racing?
• How much living and storage space do you need for your crew and equipment?
• What kind of stability and performance characteristics do you value most?
• Are you willing to compromise on space or speed for the sake of your preferred multihull design?

Final Words!

So, what’s the best boat? Well, both are great. The choice between a catamaran and a trimaran will depend on your needs and personal preferences. If you are looking for a peaceful trip at a slower pace with plenty of space for the whole group, a catamaran will be your best bet. On the other hand, if you want to zip through the water and get your blood pumping, a trimaran is what you need!

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Have you sailed a catamaran or a trimaran? If so, please share your experience in the comments below.

Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.

Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.

26 thoughts on “Trimaran VS Catamaran – Which Boat Is Best?”

Hey, well I’m definitely the Catamaran girl. I love my space and don’t really need the thrill of the ride as much as I value the relaxation and holiday-type feeling. What’s your personal choice? Well since I’m more the sailor’s wife than the sailor, those other problems don’t really apply to me, do they? hahahaha what’s your personal choice?

We have something in common, because I am not a fan of racing . I love comfort and space, so I would go for a Cat!

Have a great day:)

I would go for the trimaran as it’s more stable in tough conditions as I would like to explore the world, not that I want to race. Catamaran is my go to option if I just want a nice vacation boat or something I agree that that one is better if you don’t want to race. I won’t buy a boat in the near future though, I certainly have not got the money, and I live at the wrong location, not far from the sea but still, I can’t even drive (no license). Great article though and I love boats. Wondered what the difference about these 2 are and now I know.?

Hi Stephanie, Sorry for the late reply. I had a minor technical issue:) Yes, trimarans are extremely stable and are faster than catamarans. However, those beautiful boats are quite expensive and if you plan on sailing around the world, you’ll need a small crew with you to handle the boat:). I am glad this article helped you know what’s the difference between a trimaran and a catamaran. Let me know if you need more info. I am always happy to help. Thank you for the comment and I wish you a lovely day.

This is a very informative comparison of the trimaran vs. catamaran style sailboat. They look similar on the exterior to the untrained eye – but it seems like the differences are pretty dramatic. If someone was looking to charter one for a vacation – do you have a specific experience or preference for one or the other?

It will depend on your personal preferences!

What are your needs? Can you be more precise?

I personally love to sail in comfort, I also need a lot of storage, so a cat is my favorite yacht!

Have a wonderful day:)

I have sailed ON a cat but never sailed one myself. Certainly a wonderful experience unlike a single-hulled vessel that rocks and rolls with the swells. That leads me to ask: if caught in rough weather (large swells and strong winds), how reliable is the trimaran? Does either configuration have limitations in this regard?

For the same size of boat, a trimaran have higher sailing performance ,a better ability to tack and go windward. So to answer to your question, a trimaran will handle better in strong winds and will go faster! But! Bear in mind that no matter if it’s a cat, trimaran, or monohull, the safety will all depend on when the sail will be shortened and how the boat will be handled in bad weather.

I hope it helped and if you have any other question , please feel free to get in touch:)

Have a great day!

Awesome write up on the differences between the two beauties. I have learned something new here. I am more of the adventure like person and your quick analysis of the Trimaran, tells me that I probably would lead to this option when choosing between the two.I will certainly browse around your site to check out other interesting articles you have on offer.Take Care, Roopesh.

Hi Roopesh,

Thank you for the compliment and you are very welcome to stroll around my website.

Take care too and wish you an awesome day!

It’s interesting to see the different opinions shown concerning of a debate. I don’t know about these vessels but I enjoyed reading it.

To me, I’ll go for Trimaran because of the modern interiors. I mean, it’s the modern feel that I’m looking for. That’s my main, personal factor.

Still, overall, I think it’s also suffice to say that these two cannot be compared because it’s not like with like. But that’s just my opinion. Trimaran for the win anyways!

So nice to see you again on my website:)

Yes, the trimaran Neel 45 has a modern look, but not every trimaran. Also, they are much faster than catamarans, sailors usually use them more for racing and catamarans for cruising.

Thank you for the comment, I really appreciate:)

I wish you a wonderful day!

I think now the Neel have brought out the 51 the game has changed somewhat. Lots more room ,walk around bed in master room. Lare shower in main head, the inside outside Cocloon as they now call it. Heaps of space below, fantastic headroom down below in central Hull. Much more classic looking boat on the exterior. Add the speed, stability and affordability compared to similar sized Cats and there really does not appear to be any more to be said. Of course it’s just my opinion and if money was not an option i think the Gunboat 60 would be the final choice, but for around 600k the Neel 51 has definitely set the standard. Take a look https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-997AEXfsk

Well, that’s a beautiful trimaran you have here, effectively, this one looks much more comfortable and wider than the Neel 45! I would definitely choose the 51 over the 45! I’ve really enjoyed watching the video, and it would be interesting to write an excellent review on the 51:). I agree with you, the Gunboat is such a beautiful cat, and now it makes it even harder to choose between the two of them:) Thank you for the comment and wish you a wonderful day!

Late arrival here but after reading and watching so many negative reviews about the Neel trimarans and the Neel 45 images of one build showing their train wreck quality, there is absolutely no way you can compare a Gunboat and a Neel. You’d be better off comparing it to the Yugo automobile.

The “Sailing Yacht Ruby Rose” did a recent video review of the newer Neel 47 posted on July 18, 2019 showing very clearly that its build quality is extremely lack luster. Although it was the Neel Trimaran that gave me the sea bug, one probably couldn’t purchase a poorer quality boat at any price. It’s an awesome concept but it’s a manufacturer no individual should consider buying from. I’m hoping one of the premium Cat builders will take on the task of providing a similar concept when I’m ready with my money.

Hello Eso, The beautiful thing in life is that everyone has different taste and opinion. I am glad to have you here and thank you for sharing your experience with the readers, this will certainly be useful to many people. I wish you a fantastic day!

Yes I’ve been looking at the Neel 51, Its turning my attention some what. It would make world cruising just that little bit faster and with room and comfort. PS I like the engine room.

Hi Mercury,

Thank you for the comment! The Neel 51 is a beautiful boat. She is more spacious and comfortable than the 45 Neel, but the 65 is even better! However, the 51 is an ideal cruising trimaran to sail in comfort. She provides everything sailors have ever dreamed of such as speed, stability, space, and luxury. What more to ask for:)

Thank you again for the comment and wish you a wonderful day!

I own a Catana 47 with one owner and two guest cabins. I and my wife want four cabin boat so that We can sail with our two daughters and their family including grand children. Should I buy Catana 53, Outremer 51 or Neel 51?

Thank you for commenting!

I am not a boat seller, but I will be more than happy to answer your question. The Catana 53, Neel 51, and Outremer 51 are fantastic boats. And to be honest, I would personally buy the Neel 51 because she is extremely spacious, lightweight and more stable than any catamaran out there.If you bring children, then you would want the boat to be safe. The other boats are also great but tend to perform less well in strong winds and heavy seas than the Neel 51. So yes, the Neel 51 is unbeatable in all categories! At least to me:)

I hope it helped and, please, feel free to contact me if you need to know further information. I am always happy to assist!

Thank you again for the comment and wish you a lovely day!

It’s really a good Information. I have never been in any one of the rides but I feel personally Cat is better. Do you guys know anything similar to this other then Cat trimaran like Semi-Submersible, drone etc. as I am doing a project that will help you to ride Cat Yourself alone!. Wish me good luck and please help me achieve my goal fastly, by sharing your precious knowledge and time. thank you in advance.

Hi Mohammed,

We would like to help you, but we didn’t really understand your question, could you be more specific, please?

Thank you for the comment!

Hello Daniella, Firstly thank you very much for your kind response. I would like to have some info about the Stability equation of Catamaran and different steering Mechanisms.

You are very welcome!

Please, check out these articles, I am sure you will find all the answers to your questions: file:///C:/Users/gofri/Downloads/6962-1-10720-1-10-20130718.pdf

http://www.sailingcatamarans.com/index.php/faqs/19-sailing-and-performance-questions/109-which-steering-system-should-i-use

I hope it helped! Don’t hesitate to contact me if you need more information, I’ll be more than happy to assist!

Dear Daniela Thankyou very much for your Kind help. Could you please give some Information about the construction guidance of Catamaran. I want to construct my own for my experimental purposes. Thankyou Regards Moulasaheb Md

Hi Mohamed,

I would like to help you, but you are not in the right place for this. If you are looking for sailing holiday, then I’ll be more than happy to help!

If you want to construct your own boat, I highly recommend you to check other websites.

Thank you for the comment and wish you a great day!

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Catamaran vs. Trimaran: The Differences Explained

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Most boat lovers know the differences between a catamaran and a monohull. But when it comes to differentiating between a catamaran and a trimaran, things can get tricky because it’s not always clear how much difference the extra hull of a trimaran makes in performance, safety, comfort, and handling. If you’re trying to choose between the two, this is a post you’ll want to read before making a decision.

Besides the number of hulls catamarans(two) and trimarans(three) differ in speed, safety, accommodation, helming, and anchoring. Generally, catamarans are more manageable in a marina and provide better accommodation and comfort. Trimarans, on the other hand, are faster and more fun to helm.

In this post, we’ll cover these differences in greater detail to make it easier for you to choose between a catamaran and a trimaran. First, let’s quickly review each multihull type.

Table of Contents

The Lowdown on Catamarans

Informally dubbed a “cat,” a catamaran is a type of multi-hulled sailing craft with two equal-sized parallel hulls. Cats are typically geometry-stabilized, leveraging their wide beams for stability. That’s unlike monohull boats, which use ballasted keels for stability. Catamarans also have a smaller displacement, lower hull volume, and a much shallower draught ( draft ) than similarly sized monohulls.

The earliest forms of catamarans can be traced way back to the 17th century. They were primarily used for fishing by the Pavaras community in Tamil Nadu, who preferred them over other fishing vessels due to the extra balance and stability provided by the twin hulls. Later on, the British adopted the concept of twin-hulled boats and popularized it worldwide.

Modern catamarans are much more sophisticated than their ancestors. They’ve evolved in terms of the usage versatility, construction, and design, giving rise to two primary configurations:

• Small-Waterplane-Area Twin Hull (SWATH)
• Wave-piercing catamarans

The hulls in a catamaran with a SWATH configuration are typically submerged. That means they’re less affected by ocean waves , which is great for stability when sailing in rough waters. In the recent past, SWATH configurations have been used on research vessels and rescue ships. 

Their wave-piercing counterparts, on the other hand, have low-buoyancy bows fitted on the twin hulls. The bows allow the hulls to puncture ocean waves instead of riding over them, making catamarans with such a design faster on rough waters than SWATH cats. In the recent past, wave-piercing cat designs have been used on passenger ferries, military vessels, and yachts.

The Lowdown on Trimarans

Also known as a double-outrigger, a trimaran is a type of multihull boat with one main hull flanked by two smaller “floats” (technically known as outrigger hulls) connected to the larger hull by lateral beams. Such a design makes trimarans incredibly stable, meaning they’re hard to capsize even in the roughest of waters. 

The earliest forms of trimarans can be traced to the Austronesian people and are still the most common hull design you’ll find on traditional fishing boats in Maritime Southeast Asia. The majority of today’s double outriggers are yachts meant for racing and recreation, but some warships and ferries have this design.

The Differences Between Catamarans and Trimarans 

The most apparent physical distinction between a catamaran and a trimaran is that it has three hulls instead of two. 

But other than that, are there other differences between the two vessel types you need to know? Do those differences make one type better than the other?

To find out, let’s compare the two types of multihulls based on the following merits:

Comfort and Accommodation

A Cat’s geometry is ideal for comfort and accommodation. The two load-bearing hulls provide additional habitable space, and you can always create a sizable nacelle between them. Connected to this central living space is a large cockpit, and there are cabins on either end of the hulls. This arrangement is perfect when you’re looking to relax a bit as the party rages on in the saloon because it gives you a bit of privacy. 

And with flybridges virtually standard on modern catamarans, you have extra space for entertainment and lounging. The deck area is safe for kids, and the fact that catamarans don’t heel much means that you can do things like cooking at ease. Also worth mentioning is that cats can carry a decent load, meaning you can stock up on food and gear when going away for an extended period.

While trimarans do provide a decent degree of livability, they fall short of catamarans in two regards. First, they heel more than cats, making it difficult to do things like cooking on board. Second, they support much less load than catamarans. To put things into perspective, some 45 feet (14 meters). Cats can carry nearly three tons of payloads, whereas similarly sized trimarans can barely support half that load.

Overall, catamarans provide better, more comfortable accommodation than trimarans.

One of the main concerns when choosing any water vessel is how easy it’ll capsize in the event of a storm. If you’re looking to spend more than just a couple of hours on the water, you want to sail on something that won’t capsize/sink easily because sea conditions can sometimes fluctuate within a short period.

When it comes to safety, three hulls are better than two. Having one main hull and two overhangs on each side makes a trimaran more stable because of two reasons. First, the side overhangs widen the beam of the vessel, which minimizes the chances of the boat flipping over when hit by a large breaking wave from the side. Second, trimarans are typically designed with the weight centered on the main hull, further enhancing stability. 

Multihull stability is a complex topic and should be understood in detail if you want to stay safe at sea!

• Why do catamarans capsize?

On the rare occasion that a trimaran flips over, it’ll stay afloat. That means if the worst happens, a capsized trimaran will turn into a potential life-saving raft that’s easier to spot from a helicopter. That’s because almost all trimarans designed in the last decade or so come with closed-cell foam distributed throughout the various parts of the boat to provide reserve buoyancy. 

Thanks to this kind of construction, you could cut most trimarans into pieces, and each would still stay afloat.

While catamarans are typically more stable than monohulls, they’re no match for a trimaran in this regard. Hypothetically speaking, it would be easier to tip over a catamaran than a trimaran if both boat types were subjected to equal magnitude storms. That, however, doesn’t mean that catamarans aren’t safe. They’re still harder to flip over than monohulls and will stay afloat when that happens because they come with the same closed-cell foam found in a trimaran.

While on the subject of safety, it’s worth mentioning that trimarans require less vigilance as far as reefing is concerned . Since catamarans heel less, most of the extra wind force translates to more “push” on the rig, increasing speed. But because the pressure exerted on the sail nearly quadruples when the wind speed doubles, you need to be extremely careful when timing your reef to keep a cat sailing flat. 

The same goes for reefing a trimaran, except that the slight heel gives you more room for error in terms of the timing.

Most people who’ve ever steered both a trimaran and catamaran will agree that the former is more fun to sail. Most light trimarans, especially tiller-steered ones, have a terrific response to the helm. They have a slight heel that somewhat feels like a monohull, but the angle is a bit limited.

A catamaran is stable, but it doesn’t heel. While heeling may be frowned upon by people who prioritize comfort and accommodation in a boat, it’s one of the most exciting parts of sailing. With three hulls to ensure stability, trimarans combine the heel of a monohull with a catamaran’s stability to deliver the best sailing elements of monohulls and multihulls in a single package.  

Considering that trimarans are more stable, you may be better off with one if you’re looking to have some fun as you perfect your helming skills.

Speed is another area where trimarans outperform their twin-hulled counterparts. Typically lighter than catamarans, trimarans need less sail distance to hit double-digit speed averages. A trimaran can maintain a formidable course up-wind when fitted with centerboards/daggerboards (as is often the case for modern models).

While a catamaran is still faster than a monohull of identical size, it falls short of the trimaran in terms of sheer speed. Understand that this doesn’t make catamarans slow boats; it’s just that tris are typically designed with more emphasis on performance.

Why are Trimarans Faster Than Catamarans?

Trimarans are easier to anchor than catamarans because they allow you to keep the ground tackle in and deploy it from the main hull. 

However, catamarans are more maneuverable and manageable in a marina. They also handle docking lines more conveniently.

Catamarans vs. Trimaran: The Verdict

In summary, here’s what the differences between a cat and tri mean for anyone trying to choose between the two: A catamaran is a better choice if you’re looking to accommodate many people on board for something like a party because it’s more spacious and comfortable than a trimaran. On the other hand, a trimaran is an ideal choice for speed junkies and individuals looking to push their sailing skills to the next level on every stable platform.

Hopefully, that has cleared the air and made it easier for you to pick a more suitable option for your sailing needs.

• ResearchGate: A comparison of the motions of trimarans, catamarans and monohulls | Request PDF
• Why are trimarans faster than catamarans?

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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Italian catamaran brings a powerful message

26 August 2024

The crew of Italian vessel Lo Spirito di Stella received a warm welcome at HMAS Moreton on August 8, the first of three port visits to Australia.

Members of the ADF attended the reception, along with Italian attaché Colonel Marco Bertoli, Consul of Italy Luna Angelini Marinucci, the boat designer Andrea Stella and guests.

Lo Spirito di Stella is a fully wheelchair accessible 18m catamaran currently conducting a round-the-world voyage entitled: Wheels on the World 2023-2025.

After a significant paraplegic accident, Dr Stella designed the accessible vessel, which is now a model for other nations.

Through its adaptive techniques it enabled Dr Stella to operate the catamaran and fully integrate with the other crew.

Director ADF Sport Brigadier Phil Winter said Defence was committed to supporting people who have become wounded, injured or ill as a result of their service.

“The ADF Adaptive Sports Program aims to provide hope and inspire current and former serving personnel through the power of adaptive sports,” Brigadier Winter said.

The yacht left Genoa on July 3 last year and will circumnavigate the globe, arriving back in Venice, Italy, on August 1, 2025.

As part of this voyage, Lo Spirito di Stella will also visit Cairns and Darwin in September.

Defence is supporting the voyage by encouraging wounded, injured or ill, current or former personnel to participate, as well as providing port and logistics support.

“This catamaran brings a powerful message,” Brigadier Winter said.

“The power of sport can help our people both serving, veterans and family members to improve their physical and mental wellbeing, and social connections.

“Sailing can have its challenges but many of the sports also have their nuances.”

For more information visit Lo Spirito di Stella

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Ministers rejected £13.8m deal to buy catamaran and ploughed on with £400m ferry building fiasco

An expert advisor flagged the opportunity to buy a cut price catamaran for a fraction of the price of two ferries being built by Ferguson Marine.

• 04:30, 25 AUG 2024

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The Scottish Government rejected the opportunity to buy a catamaran for just £13.8 million as an alternative to its disastrous £400million CalMac ferry building debacle .

A former expert adviser to SNP ministers has revealed he flagged the opportunity to purchase the 800-seat Galleons Passage from a shipyard in Asia in 2017 but believes officials knocked it back to spare their blushes.

The vessel which can also carry 100 cars would have been a near perfect fit for the for the crucial Arran crossing but Professor Alf Baird’s suggestion was not acted upon.

The Sunday Mail can reveal he believes the suggestion was rejected because the government did not want to highlight the fact a far cheaper alternative to its bungled Ferguson Marine contract was available.

Baird, a former director of the Maritime Research Group at Napier University and former member of the Scottish Government’s Expert Ferry Group, said: “In 2017, a 100-car and 800-passenger capacity catamaran nearing completion in an Asian yard became available, in part due to the then financial crisis in Venezuela where the ferry was originally destined.

“I made this opportunity known to the ScotGov Expert Ferry Group and proposed the vessel be acquired or chartered for use here, most likely for Arran.

“The price of the boat was put at £13.8million, which was considerably less than the two similar size vessels ordered at Ferguson’s – at that time for an expected price of £50million each.

“It was immediately available and could have helped alleviate pressure on the CalMac network.

“CalMac and the government’s ferry owner CMAL prepared a brief three-page response which, while suggesting a few minor hurdles, made clear that with some modification to piers which were planned anyway for the Arran route, the vessel could easily and quickly be brought into service.

“However there was no further action by government agencies or Transport Scotland and the vessel was quickly snapped up by the Trinidad and Tobago government and sailed there directly from the yard in Asia to begin operation between Port of Spain and Tobago.”

Former First Minister Humza Yousaf was Transport Minister at the time Baird suggested the catamaran purchase in 2017.

The Galleons Passage is now operational in the Caribbean while in Scotland the price of two traditional monohull ferries has rocketed to around £400million. Neither are yet in service nine years after being ordered.

The contract for two CalMac vessels was awarded to Ferguson Marine in 2015, and both were originally due for delivery in 2018.

But the construction has faced design challenges and delays, with the yard falling back into administration.

It was subsequently nationalised, but problems continued and the cost of the ships has risen to about four times the original £97million contract price.

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Baird added: “From my perspective, as a member of the Ministers Expert Ferry Group at the time, the Scottish Government and its agencies rejected the offer of the catamaran primarily because they did not want it known that it was possible to acquire same capacity ferries for a fraction of the price of CMAL and CalMac in-house specified monohulls, and which also cost much less to operate.

“The same thing more or less occurred recently in 2021 when another nearly completed large car-ferry catamaran became available from a yard in Asia for a price of around £12million.

“This time the Mull and Iona Ferry Committee were informed and they undertook extensive research and lobbying work to demonstrate that such a vessel could be operated on the Mull-Oban route - again much cheaper than a typical £50million CMAL monohull.

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“The ongoing tragedy is that CMAL currently has on order four 100-car ferries in Turkey at a cost of £50million each, when we know that it is possible to acquire at least two and possibly three catamarans for the same price.

“At least two catamarans could have already been operational in Scotland at low cost. We know now that catamarans can of course work on CalMac routes given the charter of Pentland Ferries MV Alfred for the past year and more.

“It is inexplicable why efforts to persuade CMAL, Transport Scotland and ultimately Scottish Government ministers to buy a catamaran have been ignored, and the public are paying a heavy price.”

Last year it emerged a Scottish entrepreneur who claimed he could create an £800million catamaran building operation on the River Clyde is now set to work with the government of Fiji.

Dr Stuart Ballantyne, a Scottish naval architect and executive chairman of Australian marine design, construction and management firm Sea Transport Corp, has said there was no interest from ministers and CMAL involving the creation of a fleet of 50 catamarans.

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