yacht or boat with twin hulls in parallel

• Under the sea
• A yacht or other boat with twin hulls in parallel

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1. The first letter of the answer is: C

2. the last letter of the answer is: n, 3. there are 4 vowels in the hidden word:.

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• Catamarans: Exploring the beauty of twin-hulled boats

Catamarans, with their unique twin-hull design, have gained popularity among boating enthusiasts worldwide. Offering stability, speed, and ample space, catamarans have become a favored choice for sailing, cruising, and even fishing. In this article, we'll delve into the world of catamarans, exploring their features, advantages, and various uses. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or considering purchasing your first boat, join us as we set sail to discover the beauty of catamarans.

Advantages of catamarans

A catamaran is a type of boat characterized by two parallel hulls connected by a deck. This design offers increased stability and reduced drag, allowing for smooth sailing and enhanced performance.

Catamarans offer several advantages over traditional monohull boats. These include:

• Stability: The twin-hull design provides excellent stability, minimizing rocking and rolling even in rough waters.
• Speed: With reduced drag and lighter weight, catamarans are known for their impressive speed and efficiency.
• Spaciousness: The wide beam of a catamaran allows for more interior space, providing comfortable living areas, cabins, and deck space.
• Shallow Draft: Catamarans typically have a shallow draft, making them suitable for cruising in shallow waters and exploring coastlines and coves that are inaccessible to deeper-draft boats.
• Enhanced Safety: The twin-hull configuration offers redundancy and increased buoyancy, making catamarans less prone to capsizing.

Sailing catamarans

Sailing catamarans have gained popularity among sailing enthusiasts for their excellent performance and comfort. With their wide beam and efficient sail plans, they can achieve impressive speeds and provide a stable and enjoyable sailing experience.

Catamaran design and construction

Catamarans are constructed using various materials such as fiberglass, aluminum, or composite materials. They can be custom-built or manufactured by renowned boat builders who specialize in catamaran construction.

Read our top notch articles on topics such as sailing, sailing tips and destinations in our  Magazine.  

Catamaran sses and activities

Catamarans are versatile and can be used for a variety of activities. Some common uses include:

Cruising and liveaboard

Catamarans are well-suited for extended cruising and liveaboard lifestyles, offering spacious accommodations and the ability to carry ample supplies and provisions.

Chartering and tourism

Due to their size and comfort, catamarans are popular for chartering and tourism purposes, providing vacationers with luxurious and memorable experiences on the water.

Catamarans are known for their competitive edge in sailing races. Their speed, stability, and maneuverability make them a favored choice among racing enthusiasts.

Catamarans designed specifically for fishing offer stability, deck space, and specialized equipment, making them ideal for anglers seeking a productive and enjoyable fishing experience.

Small catamarans for recreation

For those looking for smaller recreational options, there are compact catamarans available that are perfect for day sailing, coastal exploring, or simply enjoying leisurely time on the water.

Buying a catamaran: Factors to consider

When purchasing a catamaran, factors such as size, budget, intended use, and maintenance requirements should be taken into account. Conduct thorough research, consider professional advice, and take your time to find the perfect catamaran for your needs.

Catamaran maintenance and care

Proper maintenance is crucial for keeping your catamaran in top condition. Regular cleaning, hull inspections, and routine mechanical checks are essential to ensure the longevity and performance of your boat.

Catamarans offer a unique and captivating boating experience. With their stability, speed, spaciousness, and versatility, they have become a popular choice for sailing enthusiasts, cruisers, and fishermen alike. Whether you're seeking an exciting adventure, a luxurious vacation, or a peaceful coastal exploration, a catamaran can provide the perfect platform to elevate your boating experience.

So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our range of charter boats and head to some of our favourite sailing destinations .

FAQs about catamarans

What's a Sailboat With Two Hulls Called? (3 Examples)

A sailboat with two hulls offers several advantages over traditional monohull sailboats, including greater stability, speed, and space. If you want to learn more about the types and key features of two-hulled sailboats, we'll give you three distinct examples and help you decide which one fits your needs.

A sailboat with two parallel hulls is known as a catamaran. The hulls are connected by a deck, which provides a wide and stable platform, allowing them to sail faster and more efficiently than monohulls. Some of the most common catamaran types include cruising catamarans, racing catamarans, and power catamarans.

Aside from a catamaran, there are other types of two-hulled sailboats, such as the proa and the Polynesian double canoe. Let's see how they differ from a catamaran and what their use or purpose is.

• Catamarans are proven safer than traditional sailboats with a single hull, and they are less likely to tip over.
• Catamarans typically have two sails, one on each mast, which are larger and more efficient than those found on traditional sailboats.
• Catamarans have a shallower draft which allows them to access shallow anchorages and navigate in areas where traditional sailboats cannot.
• Power catamarans provide the stability and space of a catamaran with the speed and convenience of a motorboat.
• The proa is a two-hulled sailboat with asymmetric hulls that only sails in one direction and has a minimalist design.

On this page:

The two-hulled sailboat: catamaran, 3 common types of catamarans, other types of two-hulled sailboats.

A sailboat with two hulls is popularly known as a catamaran . Catamarans are a popular choice for sailing enthusiasts due to their stability, speed, and comfort compared to monohulls , especially in rough seas.

The table below summarizes how you can identify a catamaran based on the presence and number of each part:

They have two hulls

Unlike traditional sailboats that have a single hull, a multihulled boat such as a catamaran is considered to have one of the most stable hull designs . This allows them to sail faster and more efficiently than traditional sailboats. They are also less likely to tip over, making them a safer option for inexperienced sailors.

The two hulls also provide a wider base which reduces the rolling motion that can cause seasickness. Additionally, they allow for more living space on the boat, making them suitable for long-term cruising and living aboard.

If you're curious if a catamaran can still capsize despite having two hulls, here's an article to answer your question.

The hulls can be made of various materials, including fiberglass, aluminum, and wood. Fiberglass is a popular option due to its durability, strength, and ease of maintenance.

Meanwhile, the aluminum's strength and resistance to corrosion can make it ideal for sailing in saltwater environments. Wood is a traditional material used for boat building and can provide a classic look to a catamaran, but it requires more maintenance than other materials and can be more susceptible to rot and damage.

Other materials that can be used for catamaran hulls include carbon fiber, Kevlar, and composites. These materials are lightweight and strong, so they are ideal for racing catamarans that require speed and agility.

They have two sails

Catamarans typically have two sails, one on each mast. The sails can be adjusted to catch the wind and propel the boat forward. They can sail faster than traditional sailboats due to their lightweight design and ability to catch more wind.

The sails are typically larger and more efficient than those found on traditional sailboats. This is because catamarans have a wider beam, which allows for a greater sail area without compromising stability.

The two sails on a catamaran are usually a mainsail and a jib. The mainsail is attached to the mast on the back of the boat, while the jib is attached to the mast on the front of the boat.

If you want to be familiar with the different types of sail , here's a full guide with illustrations.

The mainsail is the larger of the two sails and is responsible for most of the boat's propulsion. The jib is smaller and is used to help steer the boat and balance the sail plan.

Catamarans also have the ability to use a spinnaker sail. This is a large, lightweight sail that is flown from a pole at the front of the boat. The spinnaker is used when sailing downwind and can significantly increase the boat's speed.

Most catamarans have two masts

Most catamarans have two masts, one on each hull. The masts are typically placed near the center of each hull, which helps to distribute the weight of the sails evenly across the boat.

Some catamarans have tall, slender masts that are designed for speed and efficiency, while others have shorter, sturdier masts that are better suited for heavy winds and rough seas.

Aluminum is a common choice for catamaran masts because it is lightweight, strong, and relatively inexpensive. Carbon fiber, on the other hand, is a more expensive option that offers superior strength and stiffness, making it ideal for high-performance racing catamarans.

They have two rudders and two daggerboards

Catamarans typically have two rudders, one on each hull, that are used to steer the boat. These rudders are located at the stern of each hull and are controlled by a steering system that allows the helmsman to turn the boat left or right.

Some catamarans also have daggerboards, which are retractable keels that help the boat sail upwind. They are used to provide lateral resistance to the boat and prevent it from sliding sideways.

Read this article to find out the pros and cons of a daggerboard keel type .

They usually have two daggerboards, one in each hull, that can be raised or lowered as needed. A catamaran's daggerboard is usually made of a lightweight, high-strength material like carbon fiber.

Some catamarans use a combination of keels and daggerboards, with one or more fixed keels and one or more retractable daggerboards. This allows the boat to have the stability and resistance to leeway provided by the fixed keels, while also having the maneuverability and adjustability of the daggerboards.

Catamarans have a shallow draft

In general, catamarans have a shallower draft than monohull sailboats, which allows them to access shallow anchorages and navigate in areas where traditional sailboats cannot.

The draft of a catamaran with a daggerboard keel can vary depending on the position of the daggerboard. When the daggerboard is fully extended, it can increase the draft of the boat, while when it is fully retracted, it can reduce the draft. This allows sailors to adjust the draft of the boat depending on the conditions and the depth of the water.

Smaller catamarans designed for day sailing or coastal cruising may have a draft of only a few inches, while larger catamarans designed for ocean crossings may have a draft of several feet.

Read this article to find out the advantages and disadvantages of sailing a catamaran if you're planning to sail one.

Below is a table showing the different types of catamaran and their use and key features:

Cruising catamarans offer ultimate comfort for sailors

Cruising catamarans are designed for long-distance voyages and are popular among live-aboard sailors. These catamarans typically have spacious interiors with multiple cabins, a galley, and plenty of storage space. They also have a shallow draft, which allows them to navigate in shallow waters and anchor closer to shore.

If you're looking for the best liveaboard catamarans , here are a few top picks.

In addition to their spacious interiors and shallow draft, cruising catamarans also offer a stable and comfortable ride. The two hulls of the catamaran provide a wide beam, which makes them less likely to tip over and more resistant to waves and choppy waters. This stability also makes them a great option for families with children or for those who are prone to seasickness.

Cruising catamarans are also known for their speed and efficiency. The twin hulls reduce drag and allow for faster sailing speeds, while the large sail area provides plenty of power. This makes them ideal for long-distance voyages where speed and efficiency are important.

Racing catamarans are designed for speed and agility

Racing catamarans are specifically designed for speed and agility on the water. They are typically smaller and lighter than cruising catamarans, which makes them more maneuverable and faster in the water.

The hull shape of racing catamarans is also more streamlined, which reduces drag and allows them to cut through the water with less resistance. They also have a larger sail area which allows them to catch more wind and generate more power, which translates into greater speed on the water.

Racing catamarans are also typically equipped with high-performance sails, which are designed to be more responsive and efficient than those found on cruising catamarans. While they are best suited for open water and moderate to high winds, they may not be as stable in rough or choppy water conditions.

Power catamarans are designed for speed and efficiency

Power catamarans are designed for those who want the stability and space of a catamaran but prefer the speed and convenience of a motorboat.

Power catamarans are equipped with engines that provide propulsion, rather than relying on the wind to move them through the water. Their powerful engines can reach speeds of up to 30 knots.

Because they have two hulls, power catamarans are more stable in the water than traditional monohull powerboats. They also have a wider beam, which provides more space and stability on board.

The dual hull design reduces drag and allows them to move through the water more efficiently than monohull powerboats. This means that they can reach higher speeds with less fuel consumption, which makes them a popular choice for long-distance cruising or offshore fishing.

In terms of size, power catamarans can range from small, trailerable models to larger, luxury yachts. They are often equipped with modern amenities, such as air conditioning, generators, and entertainment systems, which make them comfortable for extended periods of time on the water.

The table below shows the two other types of two-hulled sailboats aside from catamarans:

Proa is a two-hulled sailboat

Proa sailboats, also known as outrigger canoes, are a type of boat that originated in the Pacific Islands. They have two hulls, with the main hull being longer and narrower than the smaller outrigger hull.

The proa sailboat has several distinctive characteristics that set it apart from a catamaran:

They have asymmetric hulls : The proa has two hulls of different sizes, with the main hull being longer and narrower than the outrigger hull. This asymmetry allows for efficient sailing in both directions.

They can only do unidirectional sailing : The proa is designed to sail in one direction only, with the outrigger hull always leading. This is in contrast to catamarans, which can sail in either direction.

They are mounted on an angled mast : The sail on a proa is mounted on an angled mast, which allows for efficient sailing in a wide range of wind conditions.

They have a simple design : Minimalist design: Proas are often designed with a minimalist approach, using simple materials and construction techniques to create a lightweight and efficient boat.

In contrast, catamarans have two hulls of equal size and are designed to sail in either direction. They typically have more complex rigging and sail arrangements and are often larger and more spacious than proas.

In some Pacific Island cultures, proa sailboats were used for fishing and transportation, while in others they were used for racing and sport. Today, proa sailboats are still used for a variety of purposes, including recreation, racing, and exploration.

In terms of structure and design, proa sailboats are typically made from wood or other natural materials and are often decorated with intricate carvings and designs. They can range in size from small, single-person boats to larger vessels capable of carrying multiple passengers and cargo.

The Polynesian double canoe is another twin-hulled sailboat

The Polynesian double canoe is another type of boat that originated in the Pacific Islands and is still used today. It is a large canoe that consists of two hulls connected by a platform or deck. The two hulls are typically of equal size, and the deck is usually made of wood or other natural materials.

The Polynesian double canoe was traditionally used for long-distance ocean voyages and was an important means of transportation and exploration for the Polynesian people. The design of the canoe allowed it to be easily maneuvered through the water, and it was able to handle a variety of wind and sea conditions.

One of the unique features of the Polynesian double canoe is the use of a crab claw sail, which is a triangular sail that is mounted at an angle to the mast. This type of sail is highly efficient and allows the canoe to sail close to the wind, making it well-suited for long-distance ocean voyages.

In addition to transportation and exploration, these canoes have also been used for fishing, trading, and warfare. Today, the Polynesian double canoe is still used in some Pacific Island cultures for traditional ceremonies and celebrations, as well as for recreation and sport.

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What is a Catamaran? The World of Twin-Hulled Boats

• 14 April 2023
• 5 minute read

Alice Martin

Share the post "What is a Catamaran? The World of Twin-Hulled Boats"

Welcome aboard our nautical adventure as we look into what a catamaran is. If you’ve ever been interested in these twin-hulled vessels and wondered what sets them apart from other boats, you’re in the right place! In this post, we’ll explore their unique features and why they’re becoming an increasingly popular choice among sailors. We’ll also touch on the environmental benefits of chartering one, the science behind their stability. Lastly, we’ll provide you with a calendar of must-attend regattas and festivals. With summer approaching and boats ready to book with Click&Boat , let’s set sail and explore the world of twin-hulled boats!

What is a catamaran?

It is a type of multi-hulled boat, with two parallel hulls of equal size, also known as pontoon boats. This unique double-hulled design originated from traditional fishing boats and sailing vessels in the South Pacific and offers a range of benefits for sailors. They are available in various sizes and can be powered by sails or engines, making them extremely versatile.

Different types of catamarans

Catamarans come in different shapes and sizes, each offering unique features and benefits. Cruising catamarans are designed for leisurely sailing, with spacious cabins and amenities. Racing catamarans, are built for speed and performance, with lightweight construction and streamlined design. Power catamarans are perfect for those who want the speed of a motorboat with the stability of a catamaran. Finally, ferry catamarans are larger vessels designed for commercial use, with the ability to carry passengers and vehicles.

Catamaran vs. Monohull: The Great Sailing Debate

The debate between catamarans and monohulls is popular in the sailing community, with both types of vessels offering unique advantages and disadvantages. Let’s explore some of the key differences between these sailing boats.

• Speed: Generally, they have a speed advantage over Monohulls. This is thanks to their reduced water resistance and lighter construction. The top speeds can be up to 60 knots. This power of catamarans is particularly appealing for those interested in racing or covering long distances quickly.
• Space and comfort: Typically they provide more living space and bridge deck than Monohulls. This makes them an attractive choice for families, groups, or long-term cruisers who value comfort and room for onboard activities. Monohulls, while more compact, can still be cosy and offer a more intimate sailing experience.
• Draft and access: They have a shallower draft than Monohulls, allowing them to navigate and anchor in more shallow waters. This can open up a wider range of cruising destinations and reduce the risk of damaging sensitive marine habitats. Monohulls, on the other hand, are limited to deeper waters and marinas.
• Manoeuvrability: Many sailing enthusiasts consider Monohulls easier to steer than catamarans, particularly in tight spaces or crowded marinas. Catamarans, while still agile, require more skill and practice to steer confidently.
• Maintenance and costs: Catamarans are more expensive to purchase and maintain due to their larger size and the need for two engines or sets of sails. Monohulls, while potentially cheaper, can still be expensive depending on their age, condition, and equipment.
• Sailing characteristics : Monohulls offer a more traditional sailing experience, with the boat heeling and responding more dramatically to wind and waves. This can be exhilarating for some sailors, while others may prefer the more level, stable ride of a catamaran.

The Science of Catamaran Stability

The stability is a result of its unique design, which offers several advantages over traditional mono-hulled boats. Let’s explore some of these!

• Wide beam: This is the distance between its two hulls, provides a stable platform that resists rolling and heeling (tipping) when underway. This means that catamarans are less likely to capsize and provide a smoother ride for passengers in rough conditions.
• Distribution of weight: The twin-hull design allows for a more even distribution of weight across the vessel. This reduces the boat’s centre of gravity and makes it more resistant to capsizing, especially in comparison to mono-hulled boats with a narrower hull and a higher centre of gravity.
• Buoyancy and displacement: Each hull has its own buoyancy and displacement, which contributes to the vessel’s overall stability. This means that even if one hull were to become compromised, the other hull would still provide sufficient buoyancy to keep the boat afloat.
• Damping effect: The wide beam of a catamaran also provides a damping effect on the motion of the boat. This means that when the boat encounters waves or wakes, the movement is less abrupt and more gradual, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable ride for passengers.

The environmental benefits of sailing a catamaran

Calling all eco-conscious sailors! Did you know that catamarans are not only fast and comfortable, but also offer numerous environmental advantages? Here’s why these boats are becoming more popular among sailing enthusiasts.

The boat design translates to less water resistance and energy consumption, making them a greener choice for those mindful of their carbon footprint. Their shallow draft allows you to navigate shallow waters without harming marine habitats like coral reefs and seagrass beds, with minimal environmental impact. Modern boats often accommodate solar panels and wind generators, allowing you to harness clean, renewable energy for guilt-free sailing. Some manufacturers are also turning to sustainable, recyclable materials to lessen the environmental impact of boat production. Click&Boat offers various eco-friendly options for those who prefer more sustainable sailing.

Catamaran Regattas and Festivals: A Calendar of Must-Attend Events 2023

It’s time to finish with a list of the must-attend events of 2023! Here are our top recommendations.

Les Voiles de St Barth’s Richard Mille 16-22 April

With 1,200 sailing enthusiasts and 63 boats, this race takes place over 5 days on difficult coastal routes in the town of Gustavia .

Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta 6-10 June

If you are looking for a more glamorous event, this is the one for you. This prestigious event takes place over 4 days off the coast of Sardinia.

Round Texel Race 10 June

This Dutch event is the world’s largest catamaran race, with hundreds of competitors sailing around the island of Texel in the North Sea.

Cannes Yachting Festival 12-17 September

This event is a must-attend for both yachting enthusiasts in Cannes . This show will be one of the top yacht exhibitions in Europe, drawing in around 700 boats annually, including luxury catamarans.

So now that you’re up to speed on everything catamaran, it’s time to set sail into the sunset!

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Catamarans - high speed and lots of comfort

A catamaran is a boat with two hulls that are parallel to each other and connected in different ways. The name comes from the Tamil language and means "bundle of logs". This design offers high stability on the water and often enables higher speeds than conventional monohull boats. Catamarans are built in different sizes and for different purposes, for example as small beach catamarans, large and comfortable cruising catamarans or fast sports catamarans. They are particularly popular because of their speed and stability, but also their comfort.

Catamarans - more than just two hulls

A catamaran is a special type of boat characterised by two hulls arranged parallel to each other. This distinctive feature gives the catamaran a number of advantages over conventional monohull boats. Firstly, the twin-hull construction offers increased stability. When sailing, catamarans have significantly less lean (heel) than monohull yachts and are also less prone to rolling in waves. Because of these significantly smoother sailing characteristics, the risk of becoming seasick is usually lower on catamarans than on monohulls.

Catamarans are often more efficient than conventional boats. Due to their lower water resistance, they require less energy to move through the water. For motorised catamarans, this can lead to lower fuel costs.

Different types of catamarans

Catamarans differ in size and intended use. A distinction is made between, among others

• Cruising catamarans
• Regatta catamarans

The cruising catamaran - when the centre of life is on the water

Both cruising sailing catamarans and motorised catamarans are designed so that the crew can live on them. They usually have the berths and wet cells for the crew in the hulls. Depending on the size and type of boat, the cabins are very spacious. In many cases, they are larger and more comfortable than on the classic sailing boat . The wider platform connecting the two hulls provides more space for passengers or equipment.

The superstructure between the two hulls usually accommodates the steering position and the Navigation corner . There is also a light-flooded saloon and a galley, the pantry.

Another advantage of cruising catamarans is their shallower draught compared to monohulls. They have no centreboards or keels, if they have flat stub keels at all. They can therefore also sail in shallower water or enter shallow bays.

Regatta catamarans - sailing in a different way

Regatta catamarans are characterised above all by their high speeds. However, a distinction must be made between small beach catamarans or sports catamarans for sheltered waters and ocean-going catamarans.

Beach and sports catamarans

The former are also known as beach cats and are specially designed for use near the coast and on shallow water. They are characterised by their lightness, which makes them easy to transport and allows them to be launched and landed directly from the beach. Their construction is generally simple, without cabins or other heavy equipment, which also contributes to their low weight.

Because of their lightness, beach catamarans can reach very high speeds. They are often equipped with centreboards to prevent drifting, one in each hull. These can be raised. The rudder blades can also usually be folded up, allowing these catamarans to be sailed directly onto the beach.

Despite their lightness and speed, beach catamarans offer good stability and are less prone to tipping than small dinghies, for example. This is why some people find it easier to learn to sail on a catamaran than on a monohull. However, the important feeling for tilting a boat is less strongly conveyed on a catamaran than on a dinghy.

Some well-known models of beach catamarans are the Hobie Cat 16 and the Nacra 17. These boats are popular for recreational sailing and racing.

Ocean-going catamarans

They are characterised above all by their high speeds. They are almost completely devoid of comfort, which makes them extremely lightweight. These catamarans also have no keel, which makes them even lighter than monohulls. However, like all catamarans, they can also capsize. If this happens, ocean-going catamarans, unlike beach catamarans, cannot be righted again without outside help.

Trimarans - one more hull for more speed

Like the catamaran, the trimaran is a multihull. High speeds are its trademark. In contrast to the catamaran, the trimaran has three hulls. The three hulls are arranged parallel to each other. The centre hull is almost always larger and wider than the two outer hulls, also known as floats. In principle, a trimaran is something like a very narrow yacht that rests on the floats to prevent it from tipping over.

A distinction must also be made between cruising trimarans and high-performance trimarans. In cruising trimarans, the hull is extended and accommodates cabins and the cockpit. Overall, however, this centre hull offers significantly less comfort than a comparably sized monohull yacht due to its narrow width.

High-performance trimarans, on the other hand, dispense with comfort altogether. They achieve their high speeds thanks to the favourable ratio of sail area to hull resistance.

Catamaran details

Most catamarans are equipped with sails that are also common on monohulls, Mainsail and genoa. The mainsail is often fully battened and has a very large sail area.

Catamarans have a double rudder, i.e. one rudder at the stern of each hull. On beach catamarans, the two tiller rudders on the rudder heads are connected to each other via a tie rod. The long tiller boom is then attached to the centre of the track rod. On larger cruising catamarans, the rudders are connected to each other via cables that are led to the steering wheel. This allows both rudders to be operated simultaneously.

Beach catamarans are often equipped with a trapeze or even two trapezes. The trapeze is a wire on each side that is attached to the top of the mast. A crew member can then use a harness with a hook to attach themselves to the wire and stand with their feet on the outside of the hull. This brings the crew's weight further outwards and counteracts heeling.

Catamarans - stability is important

The stability of a catamaran is based on its width. Unlike monohulls, where the heeling force from the sails is countered by a keel as a counterweight, catamarans use a different principle.

Due to the large transverse distance between the respective empty hull and the sails, the empty hull generates a high righting moment with a very effective lever. In addition, the windward hull acts as a kind of counterweight. Put simply, the buoyancy of the empty hull acts upwards and the weight of the windward hull downwards. Both forces provide the necessary counter-pressure to the pressure from the sails.

The greater the distance between the two hulls, the more effectively the principle works. Modern racing catamarans are therefore almost as wide as they are long. For cruising catamarans, however, space in the harbour and the design are limiting factors.

This is another reason why cruising catamarans like to anchor in bays.

Modern materials for modern boats

Different materials are used in the construction of catamarans depending on their intended use. Cruising catamarans from large-scale production are made from GRP, as are monohull yachts. There are cost reasons for this. GRP is the most favourable material for the desired properties.

The sportier the concept becomes, whether for a beach cat or a large sports catamaran, the higher the quality of the materials used, such as carbon fibre or aramid. The aim is to keep the weight as low as possible, as these catamarans focus on sailing performance, whereas cruising catamarans are more concerned with space and comfort.

The equipment of cruising catamarans

There are clear differences in the equipment of cruising catamarans compared to conventional ones Yachts . Due to the large amount of space available, there is more room for installations than on a monohull. For example, the tanks for fresh water and fuel are usually significantly larger than on comparable monohulls. With several hundred litres of fresh water, the crew can remain self-sufficient for longer, while the large fuel reserves allow a large radius of action under engine.

The interiors of cruising catamarans also differ from those of modern yachts. The cabins are located in the respective hulls and are therefore far apart from each other, allowing for greater privacy than on a monohull. The berths are located in the cabins. In addition, each cabin often has its own bathroom with toilet and shower. This turns each cabin into its own little flat.

The saloon and galley, usually located on the platform between the hulls, are more spacious than on monohulls. Depending on the size and price, the other Equipment options . Even air conditioning and heating systems are standard on cruising catamarans in many places.

The best sailing area for the catamaran

Here again, a distinction must be made between a sporty beach cat and a cruising catamaran. Sport catamarans can be sailed in almost any area, be it inland lakes or on the coast. They are not intended for the open sea, although very daring sailors have also sailed the oceans with such catamarans.

Cruising catamarans are mainly used in the Mediterranean and in tropical waters. There, they are characterised by their great self-sufficiency. Cruising catamarans are less suitable for the North Sea or Baltic Sea. However, this has nothing to do with their sailing characteristics, but with the conditions on land. There is usually a lack of suitable berths in the harbours.

The costs are higher than for a monohull

Two hulls, a special superstructure and the fact that catamarans offer more space mean that these special ships have higher acquisition costs, but also higher maintenance costs than a classic sailing yacht. The main factor in the purchase costs is that more material is used due to the larger enclosed space. In addition, more labour hours are required and the equipment is usually more expensive than on a monohull yacht.

Mooring costs are usually higher for a catamaran than for a monohull yacht, as it requires more space in the marina due to its large beam. However, the greater comfort and longer self-sufficiency of a catamaran also means that more time can be spent at anchor. In addition to the shallow draught, which opens up more anchoring options, mooring fees can also be moderate if marinas are frequently avoided.

The larger a catamaran is, the more varied the equipment options become. The price ranges therefore increase with increasing size.

Leading shipyards for the construction of cruising catamarans

There are many renowned shipyards that specialise in building catamarans. Here are five of the leading manufacturers:

• Lagoon: As part of the Beneteau Group, Lagoon is a French manufacturer known for its wide range of catamarans.
• Fountaine Pajot: also based in France and also with a wide range of products.
• Catana Group: Catamarans for different requirements are built under the brand names Bali Catamarans and Catana Catamarans
• Leopard Catamarans: Leopard Catamarans, manufactured by the South African shipyard Robertson and Caine.
• Sunreef Yachts: This Polish shipyard is known for its customised luxury catamarans.

Buying a new or used catamaran?

When purchasing a catamaran, it is important to consider whether a new purchase should be made or whether a replacement should be made. used catamaran is purchased. Size, condition and equipment are important criteria for this.

If you are buying second-hand, it is always worth having a specialist at your side to inspect and assess the technical equipment and overall condition. If you buy from a specialist dealer, you can be sure that they are bound by a warranty. The probability of making a bad purchase there is lower than with offers from private sellers.

Charter a catamaran - these requirements must be met

Similar to motor yachts, houseboats and sailing boats, it is possible to charter a catamaran. And worldwide.

A Boat licence is required for cruising catamarans if the catamaran is to be skippered. If this is not available, a skipper can be booked with many providers.

Small beach cats can also be hired almost anywhere on the coast and usually do not require a licence. However, many hire companies require a certificate of competence, such as a DSV catamaran licence. However, you can usually obtain a licence from such providers by completing a sailing course.

Many package holiday providers also offer beach catamarans as part of a club holiday. It is often possible to obtain a licence.

The costs of chartering a catamaran

Sailing is an expensive passion. This also applies to chartering. The cost of a cruising catamaran varies depending on its size, equipment and length. Even the season plays a decisive role. Between 1,500 and 8,000 euros per week are quite possible for a catamaran in the charter sector, but also considerably more. Added to this are the deposit, mooring fees, catering, fuel, cleaning and much more. Costs are particularly high in the high season.

However, as a cruising catamaran offers plenty of space and comfort, it can usually be sailed with more crew than a comparable monohull. This means that the charter costs are spread over more people.

Which areas are worth chartering a catamaran?

Of particular interest in Europe are the countries Croatia , Greece , France , Italy and Spain . From a global perspective, the Caribbean a very popular sailing area with catamarans.

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