go cat catamaran

Go Cats On The Water

Review Highlights

“ 5 hour tour with Dylan who was an awesome guide. ” in 3 reviews

“ Captain Mary was patient and helpful as we got ourselves situated on the cat. ” in 2 reviews

“ I have been dying to see the Dome House before it disappears into the water and I was not disappointed. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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3200 San Marco Rd

Marco Island, FL 34145

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Would give 0 stars if we could. Terrible experience today at their Collier Seminole Park location. Last year it was a 5 star experience at their previous location. Today was the biggest waste of money taking our 2 grandkids on this non adventure. Due to bad weather an AM trip was cancelled & pushed to after our 1 pm departure. By the time we reached open water the guide said we ran out of time and had to go back because the other group was now waiting There was no opportunity to open up & go fast. On the way back a boat hit a mangrove and there was chaos while we were being devoured by mosquitos as the guide attempted to realign the 5 boats in clogged waterway. This was a new location for GoCats & a complete bust compared to an enjoyable trip a year ago in open waters. DO NOT use this company. Friends went with Craig Cats at the same time today and raved about the experience

Small group, terrific scenery, thrilling ride through narrow mangrove channels and the boat was dry. ie. We didn't get wet although you could so try not to wear cotton. Guide, Dylan Queck was great and easy to hear during breaks. Five star experience.

Great experience! Have a 17 & 13 year old and both enjoyed. Barron was a great guide. A must do while in Marco Island!

Awesome trip! Christina was an amazing guide. Seeing the domes was amazing. Also the weather was perfect.

Cape Romano Dome House

Highly recommend, so much fun. Great way to see the mangroves, dolphins, dome house, and islands. We chose the 2.5 hour tour and it went be so fast. Our guide Christina was fantastic. We were so close to the dolphins you could reach out and touch them. Great experience.

I want to recommend this experience because the actual boating and tour guide were awesome but everything else was awful. Once you pay for your tour, if you're under 32, you have to take a $10 boating test which had so many tech glitches, we paid multiple times for it. THEN we were never even asked to verify that it was completed. We were told to show up 20 minutes early for the tour but because of construction were told to go to a different location - no issues but it's literally a parking lot in a neighborhood so we called to verify if we were in the correct spot. The woman who answered the phone was so condescending and rude but said someone would be there in a few minutes to meet us. 25 minutes later, someone comes and we get started. No communication. No apology. We didn't even get a recognition that our tour was supposed to start and we arrived early to stand in a random parking lot for 25 minutes. We finish our tour and told to walk to edge of the parking lot to meet the bus driver to take us back to the car. 15 minutes later, no bus but poor Dylan comes and drives us to the car since whoever was supposed to wasn't there. Again - our tour guide was great. He did a great job giving the tour and making sure we were trained, safe and saw the sights but wow everything else makes it not worth it especially considering how expensive it was. 2 stars overall because the tour guide gets 5 but the entire process gets 0. So no, I don't recommend.

So. much. fun. Our guide, Captain Mary was knowledgeable and quick to point out various types of marine life giving us the opportunity to take some time and watch in wonder as wild nature swam right by us. She gave us plenty of time to get comfortable manuvering our cats as well as giving us the opportunity to go speedy fast through the gulf waters,THAT was super fun! My hubby and I are no spring chickens and my hubs has some mobility issues. Captain Mary was patient and helpful as we got ourselves situated on the cat. This was a highlight on our 30th wedding anniversary trip.So happy we went we would recommend this trip with this company to all. Oh, and the shells on the island we spent time on...so cool!

Amazing day on the water with Rich from Go Cats! I'd highly recommend these guys and ask for him. So fun!

This is a Must Do if you're visiting Marco Island. We had a ton of fun. The boats are easy to operate. We saw Dolphins up close. Lisa, our guide was fantastic. She was knowledgeable and funny. She made our tour a great experience.

Took the 2.5 hour adventure tour...the little Craig Cat boat was super fun & easy to use! Captain Mary was awesome...patient, funny, professional, knowledgeable...she enhanced the trip, making it worth every penny! We got to zoom around the mangroves, explore the channel (follow a pod of dolphins), explore the Cape Romano Dome House and lay in the water. The only suggestion I have is for a canopy to be erected over the picnic table for sign-in while we waited.

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Go Cats of the Water

• 3200 San Marco Rd Marco Island, FL 34145
• (239) 478-4099

koolcat eco tours

Our Eco Tours

Captain your Quest!

One exciting adventure.

A Craigcat® boat rental adventure exploring Marco Island, Florida. The surroundings areas has so much to offer: Beautiful beaches, breath taking sunsets, an abundance of wild life. All this has created a perfectly balanced ecosystem that attracts millions of tourists every year….a haven for any explorer. Us, at KoolCat Eco Tours, we would like to extend an invitation, to take it all in! Adventure to the 10000 islands on board of our CraigCat Fleet, a high quality catamaran boat. BEST VALUE CRAIGCAT!

Book a KoolCat Trip!

Best value craigcat tour.

• 2.5 Hour Guided Tour
• Water & Ice
• Dry Storage
• Walkie Talkie
• Wildlife watch

Our Eco Tour

Our 2.5 hour guided eco-tours will cruise the 10000 islands on board our unique Craigcat boats which seat 2 people and you get to drive the boat! (Don’t worry if you have never driven a watercraft before) We’ll make sure to offer comprehensive instructions so you can feel as confident as possible before your new adventure.

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Backwater Cat Adventure – Top Things To Do In Amelia Island

Amelia island.

Amelia Island Florida is one of the most beautiful islands in the United States. Our Backwater Boat tours is the top attraction on Amelia Island. See below for pricing, tour info, and more.

Backwater cat adventure - amelia island, please read before booking required, backwater cat adventure has 2 tour options. see both options below to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, we have specific age requirements for driving our boats and participating in our tours. drivers must be at least 18 years old, while children must be a minimum of 5 years old to participate. in accordance with florida state regulations, younger drivers born after january 1, 1988, are required to obtain a temporary boater's license online before operating a boat. when you book our tours, we will provide you with the exact link to fulfill this requirement. the process involves completing a simple 25-question test, which is open book, and can be done online at a cost of $9.99. please note that older drivers are exempt from this requirement, so it applies only to those who meet the specified age criteria., 2.5 hour amelia and cumberland boat tour.

• Childrens Price is $115 ages 5-12
• 2.5 Hour Tour
• Drive your own boat!
• Complimentary pictures of your adventure!
• Perfect Safety Rating!
• Never lose your money due to weather

1.15 Hour Amelia Island Boat Tour

• Children must be at least 5 years old to go
• 1 Hour and 15 minute Tour

Amelia Island FAQ

Can i pay by credit card or cash the day of the tour, credit card is the only way to reserve your spot (please call if you plan to pay cash so we may get your credit card on file). 100% refunds given when you cancel outside of 72 hours of your boat tour or for bad weather conditions. we’re sorry, but no refunds if you cancel within 72 hours of the tour, if your late arriving and miss the departure or if you simply “no show.”, is there a weight limit for the boats, yes, the weight limit is 300 lbs per person for safety reasons., how many days a week are the tours available, please click on the book now button on any page to see our full schedule and availability. generally we have at least one tour in the morning and one tour in the afternoon with a sunset tour starting at 5:30 pm in the summer. available 7 days a week., what happens in the event of bad weather, we will not go out in rain, dangerous conditions/high winds or when the temperature is below 65 degrees. in the event of bad weather we will try to reschedule you to a different day. if we are not able to reschedule, all monies paid will be refunded. backwater cat adventure does provide rain pants and jacket in the event of rain while on the tour., are the boats safe, the boats are designed not only for fun, but with safety in mind. we designed these boats from the ground up with multiple hours of testing to ensure stability and comfort. we have a perfect safety rating and intend on keeping it that way., how old do you have to be to drive, you must be 18 years old with a valid drivers license to drive the boat., how old do you have to be to ride, children 5 years old and up may ride on the boat with an adult. child life preservers are provided., can we bring snacks and other drinks, we provide bottled water for each boat. you may bring snacks and other drinks., what if we have an odd number of people like 3 or 5 or 7, in the event you have an odd number party, one person will ride with the tour guide on the lead boat. we do have an option to rent the entire boat as a single for an additional charge., how many people can go on the tour at any one time, we currently have 11 custom backwater cat boats which can accommodate 18 people. we do have extra boats for larger groups so please call us for large groups., is there a restroom break during the 2.5-hour tour, we stop on an island during our 2.5 hour tour, however there are not formal restrooms on the island..

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Company Pages

Call or visit amelia island location 3 south front street - dock e amelia island, fl 32034, (904) 753 7631, call or visit palm coast location 102 yacht harbor dr palm coast, fl 32137, (386) 241 5728, hours of operation:.

Mon - Sun: 08:00 - 08:00

(Amelia Island) [email protected] (Palm Coast) [email protected]

Website Design & Marketing By Palmetto Palm Marketing © 2023 Backwater Cat Adventure. All rights reserved.

The Go Kart On Water Experience Speed Maneuverability Safety

Experience the thrill of exploration and relaxation with the Backwater Cat Sport Model  boat.  A cutting-edge 12-foot catamaran designed to redefine your on-water adventures.

Crafted with precision and innovation, this versatile vessel promises to deliver an unparalleled experience whether you’re seeking fishing excursions, leisurely cruises, or a tranquil escape on the water.

Base 30 HP Tohatsu marine outboard engine. Upgradeable to a 40/50/60 HP engine.

Stereo system built in with hardtop, sound bar mounted on soft top (as displayed)

Oversized storage compartments, can be converted into livewell

Hardtop or Soft top in white or teal.

Cushion Marine Decking

Rod Holders can be installed in various spots on the boat.

Backwater Cat

The best 2 person catamaran on the market.

Are you ready to embark on unforgettable aquatic journeys with unparalleled comfort and reliability? Look no further than Backwater Cat Boats, the epitome of excellence in the world of 2-person catamarans!

Backwater Cat Specifics & Options

At Backwater Cat Boats, we pride ourselves on offering a plethora of options tailored to meet the diverse needs of our valued customers. Each of our boats is meticulously crafted to order, providing you with a personalized experience. Whether you’re seeking a sporty thrill or a serene fishing expedition, our range includes dedicated models equipped with various enhancements to perfectly match your requirements.

Base Model Specs

30 horsepower Tohatsu 4 stroke motor in White or Blue with trolling feature

Navigation & Deck Lighting

5 in deck storage compartments. Additional large storage box in rear

Stick steering (wheel steering on fishing model) Control Box

Optional Equiptment

Single galvanized custom Backwater Cat trailer $1,800

40/50 Horsepower Tohatsu Motor in White or Blue $1,890. Or 60 Horsepower Tohatsu Motor in White or Blue $2,190

Cushion decking $1099

Custom Removable Hard Top $1,200

Bluetooth sound system with 2 marine speakers $799

Garmin fishfinder/depth finder & GPS $799

6' micro power pole anchor $1099

Specifications

Length & beam.

Length: 12' (motor adds 1'6") Beam 68"

Weight & Draft

800 lbs approximately. Draft 5" Motor down 12"

2 persons 650 lbs or less.

Propulsion & Fuel

Propulsion: Tohatsu 30/40/50/60 hp 4 stroke, Fuel 6.5 gallon tank

Limited Warranty: 5 Year Boat, 5 year Tohatsu Motor, 1 year accessories

Interested in joining the Backwater Cat life?

Interested in purchasing a Backwater Cat Boat? Drop us a message via our contact form. We not only stand by the exceptional quality of our boats but also ensure your buying journey is a delightful one! We eagerly await your message!

Why Backwater Cat Boats Are Different

Here’s why our catamaran stands head and shoulders above the competition:

Superior Craftsmanship:

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, our 12-foot catamaran offers exceptional durability and performance. With a beam of 68" and weighing approximately 800 lbs, it strikes the perfect balance between stability and agility, ensuring a smooth ride every time.

Innovative Features:

Navigation lighting, deck lighting, in-deck storage compartments, a large storage box, stick steering, and a control box – our catamaran comes fully loaded with an array of features designed to enhance your boating experience. Plus, with a draft of just 5" (motor down 12"), you can explore shallow waters with ease.

Unrivaled Versatility

Whether you're angling for trophy fish or seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures, our catamaran is your ultimate companion. Equipped with a Tohatsu 30/40/50/60 hp 4-stroke motor, you'll experience unparalleled power and control on the water.

Peace of Mind:

When you choose Backwater Cat Boats, you're investing in quality and reliability. Our catamaran comes with an unbeatable warranty package, including 5 years for the boat, 5 years for the Tohatsu motor, and 1 year for accessories. Sail with confidence, knowing that we've got you covered every step of the way.

Spacious and Comfortable:

Don't let its compact size fool you! Our catamaran boasts ample space for two persons, with a generous capacity of 650 lbs. Revel in the freedom to stretch out and relax as you cruise along scenic waterways, thanks to our intelligently designed layout

Don't Settle

Don't settle for mediocrity when you can have excellence! Join the ranks of satisfied adventurers who have made Backwater Cat Boats their vessel of choice. Experience the thrill of exploration like never before – order your Backwater Cat Boat today and let the adventures begin!

Capture Your Adventure!

Set sail on the canvas of your adventure, let the winds of excitement propel you forward, and anchor your memories with the timeless grace of a Backwater Cat Boat.

Experience the thrill and excitement of owning a Backwater Cat Boat! We are dedicated to expert crastmenship with safety and quality in mind.

© 2024 Created by Palmetto Palm Marketing

See Our Boats in Action

Backwater Cat Adventure Amelia

Backwater Cat Adventure Palm Coast

Go Cats On The Water Marco Island

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Backwater Cat Boats 904-753-7631 Amelia Island, Florida

HUGE LABOR DAY SUPER SALES EVENT! SAVE $1,488!! Get a FREE trailer with the purchase of a CraigCat!!! Click here for details.

ATTENTION –  GREAT NEWS!!!! WE GIVE TEST DRIVES IN ORLANDO CALL FOR DETAILS. PRODUCTION CAPABILITY HAS BEEN GREATLY INCREASED! ORDER TIMES ARE ONLY ONE TO TWO WEEKS OR MAYBE EVEN IN STOCK!!

Welcome to CraigCat

Celebrating 33 years of craigcat.

CraigCats top-of-the-line, high-performance compact power boats deliver a rare blend of sport boat performance and the genuine comfort of a runabout that appeals to both novice and seasoned boaters alike.

Give Us A Call ~ Take A Test Drive Today!

1-833-CraigCat (272-4422)

“This email is to all of you and anyone connected to this beautiful piece of nautical machinery. This week end was my first time on the water with the CraigCat. I live on a 400 acre lake, one of a 110 in in the county. The response from people was quite an experience. People stood in line to give a look and get a ride. Thanks for your invention Robert!”

Bob D. – Indiana

“Had a great buying experience. Got to meet Evana and Erik, both extremely helpful. You can always recognize when people enjoy what they do. I’m sure they sell worldwide, but it feels like you’re working with hometown friends. Thank you!”

Jim B. – Florida

World's Finest Compact Boat

It’s a unique watercraft that is in a class all its own with its Compact Boats. It’s the world’s finest and only compact power catamaran of its kind on the market. The ergonomic, side-by-side seating and dual-action controls provide an incredible, one of a kind experience you can only get with a CraigCat®. It’s the only power catamaran boat that has the versatility for fishing, day cruising, relaxing or diving … a boat that is as easy to operate and launch as it is on the bank account. When it comes to a sporty runabout vessel, no one does fun like CraigCat®!

With high-speed stability and all-day comfort to unmatched horsepower and high-tech handling, the CraigCat® power catamaran sets the standard in aquatic excitement! Whether you’re interested in a CraigCat® for yourself or a fleet for your resort, CraigCat® offers great investment opportunity. Contact the friendly crew at Craig Catamaran Corporation for complete details, information, sales, and rental fleets.

WE PUT FUN BACK IN BOATING!

After 34 years the new models are the best fun machines produced yet! Loaded with amenities the new CraigCat E2 Elite features a premium JBL high definition sound system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, Deluxe bucket seats, full-width composite storage compartment, convertible bimini top, ion docking, NAV, position, and courtesy deck lights. Big performance within our Compact Boats and easy to use package!

Our (DSTS) Dynamic Sport Tuned Suspension system, and (CHD) Calibrated Hull Design to give you the smoothest ride and high performance fun that no one else can duplicate. Our (ASC) Automatic Stability Control gives the driver and passenger confidence in almost any conditions.Whether it is the fresh or saltwater, for a small fishing boat, or sightseeing CRAIGCAT® HAS THE RIGHT MODEL FOR YOU!

Protected by Patents and Copyrights: 10,144,487 & 842-798 Other patents applied for. Prices and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Collier-Seminole State Park Backwater 1 Hour 15 Minute Boat Tour

Join us for an exhilarating 1-hour and 15-minute Backwater Cat boat tour departing from Collier-Seminole State Park. While this condensed tour offers a lot of the excitement and fun of our longer journeys, it’s tailored for those with limited time.

On this swift adventure, we’ll explore the winding waterways and showcase the remarkable wildlife that calls the Backwaters home. Although we won’t make stops at uninhabited islands, and the experience is a bit more streamlined due to time constraints, rest assured, it’s an enticing glimpse into the captivating world of the South Florida Backwaters.

Look forward to encounters with playful dolphins, gentle manatees, and a variety of bird species as they grace us with their presence against the backdrop of lush mangroves. Speaking of Mangroves, experience the excitement as we go through the mangrove tunnels of Collier Seminole State Park. While it may be shorter, this tour promises to be a thrilling and memorable escapade that perfectly fits into your busy schedule. Come aboard and let the Backwaters reveal their charm in just over an hour!”

At Go Cats On The Water, we are dedicated to ensuring your comfort, safety, and fun throughout your adventure. That’s why we go the extra mile by providing complimentary ice-cold bottled water in a convenient cooler, along with an experienced guide to keep you entertained and informed.

To secure the best times for your tour, we highly recommend booking early. Your memorable Backwater Cat boat tour awaits, and we can’t wait to make your experience exceptional!”

Price: $95 Per Person 

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Collier-seminole state park kayak & canoe rentals, collier-seminole state park 2.5 hour eco boat tour, go cats on the water, we are located @ collier-seminole state park 20200 tamiami trail east (hwy 41) naples, fl 34114 (239) 478-4099.

The most adventurous and fun tour on Marco Island Website Design & Marketing By Palmetto Palm Marketing © 2023 Go Cats On The Water. All rights reserved.

© 2022 Go Cats On The Water | All rights reserved

Backwater Adventure's CraigCat Tours of the Ten Thousand Island

Ages 8+ (18+ to Drive) • Top Ranked Marco Island Tour since 2011!

Quick Details

• User Ages: 8+ (18+ to Drive)
• Hour Glass Duration: 1.5 or 2.5 hour

2.5 Hour Tour

1.5 hour tour, go on a craigcat adventure in marco island and the ten thousand islands.

• 2.5 Hour Tour: Most Popular Choice. About midway through the trip, the tour stops at a secluded barrier island for shelling and swimming. The entire trip will cover up to 30 miles of the most beautiful waterways in Southwest Florida.
• 1.5 Hour Tour: THIS TOUR DOES NOT STOP AT AN ISLAND LIKE OUR 2 1/2 HOUR TOUR! The entire tour will cover roughly 15-20 miles of our favorite waterways around the backwaters of Marco Island and the 10,000 Islands.

This is an interactive adventure where you will experience wildlife, sea life, adventure and beauty. This is not your everyday guided tour at all because you get to DRIVE YOUR OWN BOAT! Your guide is driving his boat in front of you to guide you safely around the Ten Thousand Islands and pointing out the sights! The backwaters of Marco Island have many dolphin, manatees, shore birds and other sea life that can be seen along the way.

The Craig-Cat is an exceptionally unique watercraft! This two-seat catamaran with 30 Horsepower outboard engine driven speed boat allows our guests to go up to speeds nearing 30 mph. The boat allows for a much more intimate ride than similar watercraft such as wave runners or jet skis for our guests. Sit back and relax with your guests on a CraigCat tour from Marco Island with comfortable seats placed side-by-side to make conversation easy.

The CraigCat is known for being very stable and very safe as well as easy to operate. After a short 10 minute instructional speech, you will have all the know how needed to operate the vessel.

The CraigCat offers a space for a complimentary cooler provided by us filled with bottled water and ice already. The CraigCat also has a small dry box built on the boat to place your belongings safe from any splashes!

Important information

• Must be 18 y/o with a valid driver’s license to drive and 8 y/o and up to be a passenger.
• Visitors with disabilities or limitations must call to see if we can accommodate.
• There is a weight capacity maximum of 250 lbs. / person.
• No alcohol or illegal drugs are permitted on the tour.
• No person under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs may participate in the tour. Refunds will not be given for any party if a participant shows up under the influence.
• Participants will be required to sign a liability/hold harmless waiver prior to “making way”.

17 Best Catamarans for Sailing Around the World

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Catamarans are quickly outstripping single-hull boats for long-distance journeys. They are more stable and comfortable , and some can travel more than 200 miles in a day. In today’s article, I have put together a complete (well almost) list of some of the best catamarans for circumnavigating the planet; the question is, which one is best for you?

The best catamarans for sailing around the world include: 

• The Fountaine Pajot Ipanema 58

These cats focus on speed, safety, and comfort for longer journeys. 

This article will show you the seventeen best catamarans for long journeys, and why they’re the best. You’ll also learn some great tips on what to look for in a Catamaran and how to save money by buying a used catamaran. Let this list be a jumping-off point for your future research!

Pro-tip; here are the actual costs of maintaining a cat and here are considerations on how to circumnavigate .

Table of Contents

The Best Catamarans for Sailing Around the World 

A catamaran is a double-hulled boat with a deck or cabin area in between (bluewater cat definition in this article ). The double hull design means that the boat rocks less, sits higher on the water, uses less fuel to sail, and can be sailed in shallower waters than a single-hulled boat without worrying about grounding. 

Catamarans come in a variety of sizes and can be sail-powered or motor-powered and range from single-person sailing boats to family-sized yachts. Every catamaran design is different, and the twin-hull shape offers many ways to customize the layout of a ship. 

Each boat on this list is a larger catamaran (+40ft, more on size here ), so if you’re going to sail around the world, you want lots of space for provisions and rest.

Of course, there are tons of technical specs for each of these boats, but I’m going to focus on the overall features of each of these catamarans, what makes them stand out, and why they would each be an excellent choice for a transatlantic journey. 

Antares 44i 

The Antares 44i is an excellent option for sailing around the world and was explicitly designed for long-distance cruising. It performs well in any weather conditions, can be sailed easily by two people, and you’ll be able to sail long distances and live in comfort. 

Although it can be easily sailed by a crew of two I believe that a true bluewater cat should be set up for single-handed sailing, more on that in another article .

This catamaran features a stateroom on each hull and a forward cabin with plenty of storage space. The living and entertainment features include a flatscreen tv and a high-end deck speaker system. 

With this model, Antares dedicates itself to high-quality boats with optimal rigging and engine configurations. 

Atlantic 42

Atlantic is no longer building this catamaran, but there are usually a few pre-owned boats on the market. You can also get it made custom if you love the design, but be prepared to spend more money on a custom boat (custom boat also gets custom problems ;)). 

The Atlantic 42 is slightly smaller than some of the other catamarans on this list but is a seaworthy vessel. 42 ft is what most sailors I interview ( in this article ) said was the smallest cat to safely cross big oceans. It is also a decent size to counter the risk of capsizing (more on that here ).

It has a forward cockpit and pilothouse, which gives the owner a better use of space and makes the boat easier to navigate. With single-handed capability, one person can sail it easily and let the rest of the crew relax. 

One of the best-praised aspects of the Atlantic 42 is its galley, more extensive than most 42-footers (12.8-meter) can offer. 

One of the few 50 footers (15.24 meters) that can be sailed by just one person (many would of course disagree on this).

The Catana 50 is a catamaran worthy of an overseas journey. Its size adds to its stability on the open waters and its ability to sail straight through the choppy ocean and windy conditions. 

The Catana is also incredibly spacious on the inside, with substantial cabins and showers. The biggest downside to the Catana 50 is its price, as it’s much more expensive than most of its competitors. 

Catana also holds up well against some of the fastest cruising cats out there, here’s a list of the fastest cruisers if you are interested in that.

However, if you can find a gently-used Catana 50, you can rest assured that this boat will last! 

The Dolphin 42 is unique because of the use of daggerboards instead of fixed keels. This upgrade means that the boat has some pretty decent upwind performance while at the same time being faster downwind.

Centerboards and daggerboards offer some interesting downsides compared to mini keels. This is an interesting discussion and I suggest you read another one of my articles if you want to deepen your knowledge a little.

These catamarans are some of the lightest on the market. Not many Dolphins were made, so they are relatively hard to find. However, if you want a small, lightweight boat capable of going great distances, the Dolphin 42 is an excellent choice. 

Fountaine Pajot Belize 43

The Fountaine Pajot Belize is another well-built cruising yacht. Its core is made of foam instead of balsa, which reduces the risk of structural damage due to a rotten core in case of water intrusion. 

The design of Belize offers many options for customizability, with large open spaces and a combined saloon, navigation, and dinette area. 

There are two styles of Belize catamarans for sleeping quarters. You can either purchase a boat with an entire primary suite on one hull or one with two cabins in each hull. The first option is great if you are sailing the world alone and not expecting many guests, as it increases the storage capacity. 

Understanding what factors to consider when getting a cat can be hard, there are just so many of them (such as the daggerboard discussion above), I have tried to compile some of the most important in this article .

The boat also has wraparound windows to increase the sense of space in the galley. 

Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40

Fountaine Pajot is one of the best sailboat manufacturers existing today, as their boats are well made and highly versatile. The Lucia 40 is no exception – it’s a smaller boat but has a lot of room for moving around and on-board living. 

The living area is remarkably spacious on this catamaran for its size. 

The galley and lounge easily accommodate 6+people. The Lucia 40 doesn’t disappoint when it comes to sailing either, as the narrow hulls slice through choppy waters with ease. 

Most catamarans today are built to withstand rough weather but that doesn’t matter as much if the crew isn’t up for the task, I firmly believe that the most important thing a boat should consist of, is knowledge. Therefore taking online courses ( two free here ) or reading books ( my favorites here ) is imperative.

Gemini 105M

Gemini’s boats have been on the market for years and are solidly built for cruising. This boat is one of the most popular ever made, I personally would consider something different for offshore cruising, but since it has such a good reputation, I felt I had to add it to the list.

If you want to understand why I am hesitant to take this boat around the world, I recommend you read my article: What are trampolines on a catamaran?

The Gunboat 62 is a great catamaran and set the standards for the rest of the impressive Gunboat lineup. It’s sleek and spacious while being robust and capable of transatlantic journeys. You can easily travel the world in a Gunboat 62 with several people and not feel cramped. 

The yacht was made for speed and power and remains one of the fastest catamarans on the market, even rivaling the newer Gunboat models.  GABO

Although the earlier models of the Gunboat 62 weren’t designed for a lot of cargo, you can still find space for everything you need without compromise. 

Lagoon catamarans are known for their reliability and ease of use. If you are considering a catamaran for the first time and are unsure about the technicalities of sailing, a Lagoon boat is a great option. 

The Lagoon 380 is probably the smallest cruiser on this list, which makes it better suited for solo or couple sailing.  

When I go looking to buy something, whether it be a boat, campervan, or whatever, I create a checklist and classify all the things I want either by NEED or NICE to have.

I believe the Lagoon 380 to be sub-optimal for my NEEDS, even though it does check a lot of NICE boxes, there’s a step-by-step article on the NEED and NICE method here .

There are several cabin options available on the Lagoon 380, but if you’re sailing by yourself, you can settle for three cabins and a larger galley and living space. With a smaller cockpit and broader side decks, the Lagoon 380 packs a lot of practicality and ease of sailing into a more compact catamaran. 

If you like the idea of a Lagoon boat but want a little more space, the Lagoon 42 is the upgraded version of the Lagoon 380. With all of the same benefits, it comes with more space for cabins or storage, making it one of the best-selling Lagoons of all time. 

The Lagoon 42 is also a faster cruiser built for strength. While it’s not the fastest on the market, it works well in choppy waters and windy conditions, making it great for the beginning sailor to go on a more extended trip. 

Many people have completed an around-the-world sail with this ship.

Although there is a flybridge version, I would recommend the “open” version due to several factors, some including increased windage and a higher boom. More on flybridges pros and cons here .

For stability, safety, and durability, you can’t beat the Lagoon 42. 

The Leopard 45 performs better with less storage weight because of the relatively low bridge deck clearance. If the boat is fully loaded, you could experience some wave pounding. However, the cockpit is open and airy, with devices that block the sun and provide maximum comfort while sailing. 

The Leopard 45 is an incredibly beautiful boat,   and has a strong reputation for excellent build quality!

Leopard catamarans are one of my personal favorites, as such I have written an entire article about the brand, so if you want to understand its pros and cons then here is the link . Gabo

Designed in South Africa, it features a high rear arch for extra support and very smoothly connected decks. The galley is large and open, and most Leopards offer a four-cabin plan. If you are traveling with another person, this boat is an excellent option for you! 

The Manta 42 is another classic catamaran that you can buy used (at a decent price), as it is an incredibly seaworthy vessel. While still in production, the Manta was one of the most popular catamarans on the market. 

It is still in high demand amongst circumnavigators. Buying a used Manta 42 usually means that you inherit some of the previous owner’s boat upgrades! 

The Manta 42 also made it to my list of the 9 safest catamarans on the market ( link ).

This blue water cat can be sailed by one or two people, making it ideal for liveaboard couples or long-distance shorthanded sailing. The galley is in the saloon ( instead of in one of the hulls ), making the cabins below more spacious and better equipped. 

Overall, the Manta is well equipped for sailing around the world. 

Nautitech 44

Nautitech is an excellent brand of the catamaran, with several different designs per boat. The Nautitech 44 has a unique feature, you can have it with two options for steering: twin wheels or a single wheel.

The Nautitech 44 also features a cockpit on the same level as the saloon. The door between the two is more convenient than a hatch and dramatically reduces the risk of water damage during rain pour. 

This is also the same boat that aeroyacht president Gregor owns, he has offered some great insights into Nautitech in the book Catamarans (amazon link )

Outremer 45

Outremer is famous for being one of the fastest brands of catamarans on the market. If you need speed, the Outremer 45 might be the perfect choice for you. It has a top speed of 16 knots, which is higher than almost every other catamaran of its class. 

While the Outremer 45 is known for speed, it doesn’t compromise on the quality of living. 

You can settle into life on this boat with complete peace of mind. Even as a beginning sailor, the steering is simple and easy to use, and the autopilot is top of the line, so you’ll be able to sail across the ocean in an Outremer without issue. 

Privilege Serie 5

A French-designed catamaran, the Privilege Serie 5 is one of the most comfortable 50-foot (15 m) yachts available. The unique cabin layout includes the master cabin in the boat’s center instead of in one of the hulls. 

The Privilege Serie 5 is also incredibly easy to sail, despite its larger size. 

The sails and controls lead to the helm, where the raised deck makes it easy to see all around the deck. If you want to cross the ocean with a full crew then the Privilege Serie 5 might be perfect for you! 

Seawind 1000

The Seawind 1000 is the smallest boat on this list, measuring 33 feet (10 meters) long altogether. However, this doesn’t mean that it’s not livable. If you are sailing on your own or with a partner, there is more than enough space to live in the Seawind 1000, which includes the option of a centered cabin or two hull cabins. 

Because it’s small, the Seawind 1000 is easy to handle. The mast and sails are all manufactured for extra stability and ease of use. 

Overall, the Seawind 1000 is an excellent example of a simple, safe, and seaworthy catamaran. 

Note: since this is a small catamaran it will also be more sensitive to heavy weather so trip-planning becomes even more important.

The Voyage 44 is one of the oldest cats on this list, having had its hay-day in the mid-1990s. However, this also means that a used Voyage 44 will be cheaper than a newer boat. If you can find a Voyage with previous responsible owners, you will inherit any upgrades and fixes that they’ve made on top of a very seaworthy boat. 

The Voyage 44 has more storage and space than most cruisers of its size and is known for behaving very well in choppy waters. 

This catamaran does its job well while providing adequate space for cooking, sleeping, and living aboard. 

What To Look For in a Long-Distance Cruising Catamaran

If you are planning to sail around the world, you need to be very careful about which kind of catamaran you decide to use. Many of the things you want in a boat really comes down to personal preference, so be sure you know what design preferences you want before you start shopping! 

Size and Payload

The most important thing to consider when buying a catamaran is how much space and cargo you need because the larger the boats are, the bigger the payload it can handle. Decide how long you want the ship to be and how much you’re taking with you. 

It’s vital not to overload a catamaran, this will reduce performance and increase risk of unwanted behavior in heavy seas.

Cabin Placement  

Most catamarans have options for a “Maestro” cabin placement, where one entire hull is the master suite, and the other cabins are located on the opposite hull.

Cockpit and Protection From The Weather

Is the cockpit on the boat you’re looking at covered or open? This can make a difference on the high seas, especially during rainy weather. 

The size of the ship also can affect how many people you need as a crew. If you’re traveling by yourself or with one other person, you don’t want to buy a boat that needs a larger crew. 

Buying Used? 

If you don’t want to spend the money on a brand new catamaran, I don’t blame you. Several of the ships on this list are out of production and can only be found used. However, for circumnavigation, you do want a boat of high quality to keep you safe and dry until you make it to your destination.  

When buying a suitably used catamaran, it’s essential to look at the refit history of the boat more than the year it was made. Catamarans are sturdy, and the general design has been the same for at least the past decade. 

If you find a newer, larger, cheaper boat, you should look into its history. 

Your best bet to save money while buying a catamaran will be to buy an older, probably smaller boat with an excellent refit history and no serious issues. It will still be an investment, and a sturdy used catamaran will serve you well. 

Final Thoughts

No matter which catamaran you decide to buy for your journey, you’ll be able to sail safely and comfortably. Catamarans are great yachts for long-distance sailing, and the ships on this list are the best of the best. These brands are time-tested and ready to accompany you on an adventure around the world! 

Here are Some of My Favorite Catamaran Cruising Resources

Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful as you hopefully start your sailing adventures. Here are some resources that I use as a sailor that I hope you’ll also find helpful. These are affiliate links, so if you do decide to use any of them, I’ll earn a commission. But in all honesty, these are the exact things that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Sailboats: If you’re looking for the best boat to suit your needs, I would recommend a catamaran. If you’re interested, I can show you the differences between catamarans and other types of sailboats .

Books:  For getting started, I really like  Cruising catamarans made easy . It is actually a textbook from the American sailing association; it is used to get a cruising catamaran certification. There are some other great books, and I have compiled a list of books about cruising catamarans that you will find useful.

Communication:  Being out on adventures, whether it be sailing or climbing mountains, good communications are essential to being safe. I recommend two things Google fi (incredibly simple cellular data all over the world) and Garmin inreach mini (for text and voice in remote areas without cell coverage)

Sailing courses: Online sailing courses are great for beginners starting out their sailing career; it’s an efficient way of learning the basics of navigation, throttle controls, and maritime safety. I suggest starting with two free courses from NauticEd .

To see all my most up-to-date recommendations,  check out this resource  that I made for you!

• Wikipedia: Catamaran
• Cruising World: A-Z Best Cruising Catamarans 
• Dreamy Yacht Sales: Four Best Catamarans for New Buyers
• Atlantic Cruising: Good Cat/Bad Cat
• Yachting World: Catamaran Sailing Across the Atlantic
• Boat Affair: What is a Catamaran? 
• Nautilus Sailing: Catamaran Sailing

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!

3 thoughts on “ 17 Best Catamarans for Sailing Around the World ”

I like the efforts you have put in this, regards for all the great content.

Thanks Elisabeth I really appreciate the kind words 🙂

I appreciate you sharing this blog post. Thanks Again. Cool.

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2022 Boat of the Year: Best Performance Catamaran

• By Cruising World Editors
• December 15, 2021

During and in the four days immediately following the US Sailboat show in Annapolis, Maryland, the  Cruising World  judges inspected and sailed on 27 boats vying for recognition. Learn more about the boats in our  2022 Boat of the Year  »

OK, confession time. When the roster of nominees for the 2022 Boat of the Year awards was released, the contest’s team and judging panel couldn’t help themselves, and quietly put three check marks, little symbols of anticipation, alongside a trio of boats: the untamed cats that would vie for the title of best performer in their class. After all, both Balance and Seawind had entered the winner’s circle in previous BOTY competitions, and it was clear they’d have a serious contender for the throne in yet another player from cat-crazy South Africa, the Kinetic KC54. How’d it go? Let’s just say, nobody was disappointed. The conditions on Chesapeake Bay were ideal for putting the three nominees through their paces, and the trio of scalded cats all acquitted themselves superbly. 

For 2022, if anything, the trend for flybridge catamarans is on a major upswing. New cats for 2022 from both Lagoon and Fountaine Pajot continued down that design path, putting an emphasis on living accommodations, not performance. But not aboard the latest Seawind 1600 , a brand originally built in Australia that is now produced in Vietnam. And that suits judge Tim Murphy just fine. “This boat was very dialed in,” he said, “and one place Seawind has always been innovative is with their helms. This one was really great; it was -outboard and aft with great visibility, sort of half-protected where you could step in and out. There was also good access to the boom and mainsail, which you don’t always see on cats. The deck layout was excellent, particularly the forward trampolines. Some cats have lacings with large openings where you can twist an ankle, but these were nice and tight.”

“Compared to other Seawinds that I’ve seen, I was just blown away with it in terms of what it could do and how it performed,” said Ed Sherman.  “It’s a fairly conservative boat in terms of technology compared to some of the other boats in the same category, which depending on a potential buyer’s state of mind, could be either a good thing or a bad one. I loved the centralized winch aft which is where all the sail-handling takes place. It’s pretty brilliant for a short-handed crew, and it’s all in a very safe and easy-to-access location that a cruising couple can deal with without scaring the heck out of themselves.”

The Kinetic KC54 is a fresh entry in the cat universe, and we’ll let Tim Murphy get right to the point: “This is a fairly new company that was started within the past couple of years. My breath was absolutely taken away by this boat; it was spectacular. I think it was the best-built boat in the entire fleet. It’s an all-carbon boat, with a foam core, epoxy resin, all infused–fantastic. The whole boat felt integrated. You didn’t feel like there was a conflict between the forces in terms of accommodation versus performance.” With a price tag approaching $3 million, it perhaps should not be astonishing. That was a major factor in evaluating the boat, and while it did not win its class, the experts panel did present it with a Judges’ Special Recognition prize to honor the boat’s overall excellence.

“It was my personal favorite in this year’s contest,” said Sherman. The materials that were used are absolutely the highest quality available in our industry at this point, and it’s a very high-tech boat in terms of systems.” Gerry Douglas was also duly impressed: “This was the Tesla of sailboats. I think that that was their model. In terms of design and execution and technology, it hit all three of those marks. This boat is built without compromise, and what it cost was not an issue, they just wanted to do the best they could in every aspect of the boat. The construction was impeccable, the fit and finish was amazing. There are some very clever design things in the boat, but it all really worked seamlessly.”  

With that level of competition, the Balance 482 had a tall order to overcome to win its class. And it did. “The sailing performance was excellent,” said Douglas. “The boat felt really good. The steering was terrific. The structure of the boat throughout was exemplary. Storage is really good. Visibility was good. Ventilation was great. There was even a rain collection system on the cabin top, which is the only one of the boats we looked at had that. It was very well concealed because the gutters formed a handhold going forward. The solar panel installation was also well done. The panels were encapsulated into a fiberglass tray that elevated the deck so the panels wouldn’t overheat. Very clever.”

The driving force behind Balance cats is Phil Berman, a world champ at racing beach cats who brought that passion to developing and marketing fully found cruisers. Judge Murphy knows him well: “Phil comes from a very strong view of wanting to see boats that have solid sailing performance. He’s also a strong proponent of daggerboard boats, which tends to be quick shorthand for the dividing line between cats that are more about payload versus cats that are about performance, but not so much where you’re going to fly a hull or break a rudder. There’s a balance within a boat that really performs that you can still live aboard.” A winning balance, it turns out, with the Balance 482 securing its position as the Best Performance Cruiser for 2022.

• More: balance catamarans , Boat of the Year , Boat of the Year 2022 , catamaran , Kinetic Catamarans , print 2022 jan , Sailboats , seawind catamarans
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