how fast can a sailing catamaran go

How Fast Do Catamarans Go? 5 Examples (With Pictures)

A catamaran is generally more balanced on the water and can be faster than a multi-hull vessel.

Unless you compare them to foiling monohulls like the new America’s Cup boats that sail at over 50 knots, they are not recreational vessels.

In this article, we will look at how fast each type of catamaran will go.

Table of Contents

Here are the numbers before we dive into the details:

Average Speed For Sailing Catamarans

Catamarans can vary in size from 14 ft to over 100 ft. Catamarans can come in a wide variety of design types.

Sailing Catamarans have been attempting to make advancements over their mono-hulled counterparts.

These advancements include:

• Foils that assist with lifting the vessel out of the water.
• Stability advancements.
• Racers that can maintain their speed while out in the ocean.

3 Different Types of Sailing Catamarans:

1) sport catamarans.

One type of sailing catamaran is a sport catamaran, which is otherwise known as recreational. These are typically supposed to have a small crew and launch and land on beaches.

Sport catamarans do not normally have living quarters and are ideal for day trips. Resorts or other rental services often use these.

These can also be used for racing.

Sport vessels have been known to travel over 30 knots but can speed over 40 knots in the proper conditions.

2) Cruising Catamarans

Another type of sailing catamaran is a cruising catamaran. These often come with complete living accommodations, so they sacrifice speed over their sportier counterparts.

They can average between 9 and 10 knots, depending on the conditions. The top speed is typically around 15 knots.

It would be best if you were careful with catamarans that have living quarters. The more you weigh it down, the less speed you will have.

3) Racing Catamarans

The final type of sailing catamaran is an ocean racing catamaran.

These boats are large and can reach over 100 feet in length.

The top speed of this type of catamaran is around 45 knots.

Because of the prize money for entering these in races, much research goes into their advancement.

Average Speed Of Power Catamarans

Catamarans with power motors fill a different type of boating category.

These are commonly used when speed and smoothness are favored over space or capacity.

Because of their stability, catamarans are good vessels for combating seasickness as well as transportation. We have a separate article here with all you should know about catamarans and (how to overcome) seasickness .

On a commercial level, these can be used for ferries for both people and vehicles. They are used for short term travel, often to or from islands.

Like sailing catamarans, there are a few types of power catamarans.

1) Power Cruising Catamarans

Similar to sailing cruising catamarans, they also have power cruising catamarans. These also have living quarters and are stable while out on the water. The speed of these vessels highly depends on the motors equipped and the size of the boat itself.

Like passenger transport or ferries, catamarans have a high speed of about 40 to 70 miles per hour.

These are made to travel at great speeds to allow their commuters the shortest possible ride to their destination.

The military also utilizes power catamarans. They use power catamarans to transport military cargo. These ships are ideal because of their speed, holding capacity, and ability to venture into shallow ports.

2) Swath Catamarans

They also have small-waterplane-area twin-hull vessels. These are called SWATHs.

These differ from the average catamaran because they also have submarine-like hulls that stay completely under the water.

Due to the hulls being submerged, they are not normally affected by waves. These are used most often in the ocean as research vessels. They can also be used for certain types of yachts. Because of their stability, they are good vessels for furniture that will not require as much securing.

These often travel between 20 and 30 knots.

Some catamarans are designed for wave piercing. These are made to pierce through waves rather than sail over them, causing them to be faster. These can be used as passenger ferries, yachts, and military vessels as well.

3) Whitewater Catamarans

There are also recreational catamarans made for whitewater travel. These are sometimes called “cata-rafts.”

They are made using two inflatable hulls connected with a scaffold. These are lightweight and perfect for whitewater sports.

They are even able to be packed away in a backpack. They can take up to 20 minutes to assemble, including inflation.

They have high speeds on white water rivers and can be most compared to a canoe, kayak, whitewater raft, or other white water vessels.

Performance Characteristics Of Catamarans

Catamarans require four times the power to double their speed. A mono-hull vessel, however, would require eight times the power to double their speed.

This is because a Catamaran has less resistance in the water.

This is also good for conserving and using less energy.

Catamarans are also more stable in the water. This stability is effective at resisting heeling or capsizing. A multi-hull vessel would require four times the force to capsize as a similar-sized mono-hull vessel.

The general sailing in a catamaran is smoother and allows for activities that are not always possible on a mono-hull sailboat.

Are Catamarans Faster than Mono-Hull Vessels?

Because catamarans have less water resistance, they are generally faster than mono-hull vessels.

This is because their hulls are smaller, which means they have a smaller bow wave to fight.

A bow wave is a wave created by the displacement of water by the bow of a ship. After a certain speed, a boat has to start hauling itself over its own bow wave.

The larger hull a ship has, the larger its bow wave will be and the more power required to fight it.

Catamarans have two small and narrow hulls, so they do not have much of an issue with their bow wave. This is one reason they are usually faster than a similar-sized mono-hull vessel.

Catamarans can be between 20-30 percent faster than their monohull counterparts.

Issues with catamarans over mono-hulls are that they can take more time to turn.

How Is The Speed Measured?

Boats commonly measure speed using GPS tracking devices to measure distance traveled. Speed while sailing is measured in knots. A knot is one nautical mile per hour, which equals about 1.15 miles per hour.

How Fast Are Catamarans Compared To Other Boat Types?

• Sailing catamarans typically average about 10 knots.
• Pontoon boats average about 20 mph.
• A powerboat cruiser can average anywhere between 30 and 50 mph.
• Cigarette boats can even reach close to 90 mph in the proper conditions.
• Sailboats average between 6 and 12 mph depending on wind conditions. This includes mono-hull between 6 to 8 mph and catamarans and trimarans between 9 and 10mph

Two different factors can determine the speed of sailing ships:

1) The hull type as listed above.

Different hulls rest in the water more or less than other types. The less of the hull that is underwater, the faster it can go.

This is because the less of the hull in the water, the less drag created while sailing.

2) The length of the boat

The longer the boat, the faster it can go. Every boat has a maximum hull speed that cannot be exceeded unless the boat can plane on the water’s surface or be lifted on hydrofoils.  For most boats, the longer the boat, the higher the maximum hull speed is.

Speed Vs. Comfort Considerations For Catamarans

If you are looking for a catamaran, you have a lot of options.

You can choose to prioritize speed or comfort.

After deciding to purchase a catamaran, the type of catamaran you should look at depends on where and what you are using it for.

You will want to make sure that you look at what type of water you will be traveling in, how many people you are traveling with on average, and what type of speed you hope to achieve.

One thing you will want to keep in mind before the purchase of a catamaran is storage. If you intend to store your boat in a marina, you are often charged for two slips due to the beam, or width, of a catamaran versus the standard mono-hull vessel.

Catamarans can be beneficial for those who get seasick because they offer a steadier ride and the ability to have more open air space. Because the living quarters are not inside the hull and under the water’s surface, you have more windows and visibility.

Both sailing and power catamarans are viable options. Also, sailing catamarans can come with back-up power engines for low winds or situations such as docking in a marina.

Catamarans that have twin engines can offer more control and precision than those on a mono-hull vessel. This is good for tight and busy areas or navigating marinas.

Overall, there are plenty of options for you, and they offer many benefits over their mono-hull counterparts.

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Better Sailing

How Fast Do Catamarans Sail? Average Sailing Speed of a Catamaran

In most aspects, sailing a catamaran is very similar to sailing a monohull. If you learn to sail on a monohull then most of the skills are transferable. But, there are a couple of subtle differences that we will analyze further in this article. A catamaran is generally more balanced on the water and can be faster than a multi-hull vessel. And, cruising on a sailboat with a cat hull will be much faster than cruising on a sailboat with a monohull. Therefore, a catamaran hull is able to achieve the speeds of a racing monohull and is also more comfortable to sail on.

A tri-hull is even much better as they’re designed towards the performance end of the spectrum. And that is why they double the speed of a racing monohull. So, let’s analyze this subject further in this article and see what’s the average sailing speed of a cat. Follow me!

Catamaran Vs Monohull Speed: Are Cats Faster than Monohulls?

Not all cruising cats are always faster than an equivalent length monohull. But, many well-designed and balanced multihulls can easily surpass the speed of their monohull cousins. And, it’s not fair to mass all cats into one example, but performance cruising catamarans like the Nautitech or Neel trimarans distinguish from others. Their narrow waterline beams, hull chines, deep and fine keels, and rudders as well as efficient sail plans will typically be faster than the average cruising monohull.

“The fun of sailing is proportional to the speed of sailing”, as an American designer, L. Francis Herreshoff, said. And, it’s basically true because when we sail and see another boat heeling in the breeze, we also feel we want to do the same. This is because for many sailors speed means much more than just fun. You should, however, consider keeping your cat as light as possible if you want to maximize speed. I know that keeping your sailboat light is difficult but it’s of importance if speed is your main goal.

Keep in mind that a boat’s speed has won wars and has also been a contributor to safety. In the past, a fast warship was able to outmaneuver its adversary or escape from a boat with more firepower. And just as proven in history, the speed of a sailboat is important and provides a faster boat with more options.

Monohull VS Catamarans Differences

• When tacking, you must work hard to keep your speed consistent in the tack and always ease the mainsheet to avoid “windvaning.” When the larger mainsail on a catamaran attempts to turn the boat back towards the wind, this is known as windvaning.
• On a monohull, you must be extremely cautious about an unintended gybe. Meaning that you must gybe much more slowly. On a catamaran, you can take advantage of the increased speed and sustain it while gybing to help depower the main.
• On a monohull, and when winds increase, the boat starts heeling. This automatically informs you that you have too much sail up and it’s time to reef. And, as catamarans don’t heel, you have to be very careful when to reef the massive main. Most of the time, you will throw in the first reef at 18-20 knots of wind speed. The second reef will be put as the wind gets closer to 23-25 knots. The above-mentioned always depend on the size and type of your vessel.

Wind as a Main Factor for Speed

Thanks to tech evolutions in radar, satellite, and computer technology, a five-day forecast is as accurate as a two-day forecast was back in 1980. A multihull’s higher speed also contributes to easier and safer planning of ocean passages around weather windows since exposure time will be less. Moreover, meteorological prediction for shorter periods is far more accurate. Keep in mind that when sailing faster you also introduce the concept of apparent wind to the strategy of efficient sailing.

Multihull speed upwind? Sailing upwind, the catamaran usually experiences more apparent wind across the deck since it’s sailing faster. Therefore, the sails will feel more pressure, which will make the boat perform even better. And, of course, the concept of apparent wind contributes to the joy of sailing, as it adds another dimension to it. When sailing towards a downwind destination, fast multihulls are able to sail at smaller wind angles. Subsequently, this brings the apparent wind forward of the beam, hence optimizing the angle of attack on the sails.

While cats will fly gennakers, code-zeros, or asymmetric spinnakers, monohulls mostly set symmetric spinnakers to the poles. And most importantly, their boat speed will often cancel out the true wind and will reduce the apparent wind and performance. The faster the multihull is the more it is able to take advantage of the apparent wind and tack downwind towards its destination. Although it might be sailing twice the distance, it will arrive at the downwind mark quicker because its Velocity Made Good (VMG) will be faster.

>>Also Read: How Fast is a Laser Sailboat? Laser Sailboat Top Speed

Performance Characteristics

Bear in mind that cats require four times the power to double their speed. But, a mono-hull vessel requires eight times the power to double the speed. This is due to the fact that a cat has less resistance in the water. However, this is great in terms of conserving and using less energy. Catamarans are also more stable in the water. This stability is effective at resisting heeling or capsizing. In other words, a multi-hull vessel requires four times the force to capsize as a similar-sized mono-hull vessel.

Most of the time, sailing in a catamaran is smoother and facilitates activities that are not always possible on a mono-hull sailboat. In addition, as catamarans have less water resistance, they are generally faster than mono-hull vessels. As their hulls are smaller, this means that they have a smaller bow wave to fight. The bow wave is a wave created by the displacement of water by the bow of a ship. After a certain speed, the boat has to start hauling itself over its own bow wave. Meaning that the larger hull a boat has, the larger its bow wave will be and the more power will be required in order to fight it.

Since catamarans have two small and narrow hulls, they don’t have much of a bow wave. This is one of the reasons they are normally quicker than a monohull vessel of comparable size. Catamarans can travel at speeds of up to 30% faster than monohull boats. Catamarans have the disadvantage of taking longer to transform than monohulls.

Lastly, the thing that makes monohulls harder to sail is heeling and smaller spaces. In stronger winds, monohulls tend to heel. This results in making most tasks a bit more difficult to perform. Whether you’re heading forward to reef, trying to winch in a sail, or move about the boat, sailing on a heeling boat is always more difficult. However, cats have extra stability and room, and this allows for much easier movement around the boat as they do not heel. And, for this reason, catamarans are often considered easier to sail.

How Fast Are Catamarans Compared To Other Boat Types?

There are two main factors that determine the speed of ships. The first one is the hull type. There are hulls that stay beneath the water more or less than others. But, keep in mind that the less the hull is underwater, the faster it can go. This is due to the fact that the less of the hull underwater, the less the drag created when sailing. The other factor is the length of the boat. And, reasonably, the longer the boat, the faster it can go. Every boat has a maximum hull speed that can’t be exceeded. This can only happen in case the boat can plane on the water’s surface or be lifted on hydrofoils. For most boats, the longer the boat, the higher the maximum hull speed is.

Sailing catamarans typically average about 10 knots while pontoon boats average about 16 knots. As for powerboats, they can average anywhere between 30 and 50 mph. Most average sailboats are designed with monohulls and they average from 6 to 9 knots depending on wind conditions. Generally, sailboats average between 8 and 12 mph, again depending on weather conditions. This includes mono-hull between 6 to 8 mph and cats or trimarans between 9 and 10mph.

Speed and Comfort Considerations For Cats

You have a lot of choices if you choose to buy a catamaran. You have the option of prioritizing speed or comfort. After you’ve decided to buy a catamaran, the type of catamaran you can consider is determined by where you’ll be using it and what you’ll be doing with it. In addition, make sure that you look at what type of water you will be traveling in, your crew members, and what type of speed you want to achieve.

Storage is an important consideration to make before purchasing a catamaran. Due to the beam, or width, of a catamaran versus a regular mono-hull vessel, you are often charged for two slips if you wish to store your boat in a marina. Moreover, catamarans are a great option for those who get seasick because they have a more stable ride and more open air space. You have more windows and visibility since the living quarters are not within the hull and below the water’s surface.

Sailing and power catamarans are both great choices. In addition, for low winds or conditions such as docking in a marina, sailing catamarans may be equipped with backup power engines. Twin-engine catamarans can have more power and precision than mono-hull vessels.

>>Also Read: How Fast Can Sailboats Go?

Main Advantages of Catamarans

• Space! If you want to opt for more interior and exterior space then the two separate hulls of a catamaran can often double the amount of social space than a monohull of the same length.
• Catamarans are far more stable than monohulls. For this reason, they don’t heel when sailing, and are less prone to rocking when at anchor. This factor also contributes to comfortable sailing.
• Catamarans have a shallow draft which allows them to enter shallower areas. Keep in mind that in the South Pacific, most lagoons are 6 to 8 ft in depth. This depth doesn’t allow for monohulls to enter, but a catamaran can easily enter these areas.
• Stability is another big plus of cats. A cat isn’t that susceptible to the effects of wave action and it also doesn’t heal the way a monohull does. Therefore, it’s much easier to walk around on deck and within the interior of the cat while underway.
• In terms of speed, and mostly for downwind sailing , cats are faster than monohulls. This particularly applies to downwind runs, reaches, and broad reaches.
• More light, customizable, and airy living area. On a catamaran, the living space is usually situated in the middle of the boat and built on the bridge deck. But, in a monohull you go down into the hull where it is darker and less airy.
• More storage space and room for extra systems, provisions, and general sailing equipment. These may include air conditioning, heaters, oven, watermakers, generators, larger fridges, and freezers, etc. And, if you’re a liveaboard, then living on a cat is far more comfortable than living in a sailboat. You have more interior, exterior, and storage space as well as stability and speed in terms of sailing performance.
• Many modern cats have flybridge helms. And of course, no monohull achieves this visibility from the helm provided on most modern catamarans.
• The galley, main salon, and cockpit are all located on one level , above the waterline.
• Because the majority of living space is above the waterline , there’s a better flow of ventilation on a cat making the need for air conditioning somewhat less important during the daylight hours.
• When you plan to set sail, you almost never have to rush around stowing stuff or using bungee cords to hold things in place. Except in relatively rough waters, most things stay put.
• Since catamarans lack a large, heavy keel filled with lead, they can float even if they’re holed. Production cats are constructed with so much buoyancy that sinking them is nearly impossible.
• Catamarans are usually easy to dock because you have two motors and two rudders. Additionally, there’s also no need for a bow thruster.
• Most catamarans are able to turn 360 degrees within their own length.

Average Sailing Speed of Catamarans

How Fast Do Catamarans Sail? – The Bottom Line

Bear in mind that not all catamarans are created equal. In other words, catamaran speed is relative. The most important benefit of the speed of a multihull is the ability to outrun bad weather. Meaning that you’re able to average 9-10 knots on a catamaran rather than 6-7 knots on a monohull. Subsequently, this will give you more options in your strategy to avoid bad weather. In general, sailing catamarans typically average about 10 knots. Higher maximum and average speeds are what makes cats distinguish as well as their stability. These are the most important characteristics which makes many sailors prefer cats rather than monohull boats.

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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How Fast Can a Sail Catamaran Go?

Sailing on a catamaran is an exhilarating experience, and one question that often comes to mind is, “How fast can a sail catamaran go?” Catamarans are known for their speed and stability, making them a popular choice among sailing enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore the factors that contribute to a sail catamaran’s speed and discuss some of the fastest recorded speeds.

Factors Affecting Catamaran Speed:

There are several factors that determine how fast a sail catamaran can go. Let’s take a closer look at them:

1. Hull Design: The design of the hull plays a significant role in determining the speed of a catamaran.

Catamarans typically have two parallel hulls connected by a deck structure, which reduces drag and increases stability. The hull shape, including its width, length, and weight distribution, affects how the boat moves through the water.

2. Sail Area: The size of the sails directly impacts the speed of a sail catamaran.

Larger sails capture more wind energy and generate more power to propel the boat forward. Sail area is measured in square feet or square meters and is an important consideration for maximizing speed.

3. Rigging: The rigging system refers to all the components that control and support the sails, including masts, booms, and rigging lines. Properly tensioned rigging ensures efficient transfer of wind energy from the sails to propel the catamaran forward.

4. Wind Conditions: Wind strength and direction significantly influence how fast a sail catamaran can go.

More wind means more power to drive the boat at higher speeds. However, excessive wind can also pose challenges in terms of handling and control.

5. Sail Trim: Sail trim refers to the adjustment of the sails to optimize their shape and angle relative to the wind. Proper sail trim helps to maximize speed by reducing drag and harnessing the wind’s energy most effectively.

6. Weight: The weight of a catamaran, including its hulls, rigging, and equipment, affects its overall performance. Lighter catamarans tend to be faster as they have less resistance in the water.

Now that we have explored the factors influencing catamaran speed let’s delve into some of the fastest recorded speeds:

Fastest Recorded Catamaran Speeds:

1. Sailrocket 2: In November 2012, the Sailrocket 2 set a new world sailing speed record of 65.45 knots (75.23 mph or 121 km/h). This high-performance sailboat was specifically designed for speed and featured advanced hydrofoil technology.

2. L’Hydroptère: L’Hydroptère is a hydrofoil trimaran that has achieved remarkable speeds.

In 2009, it set a world sailing speed record of 51.36 knots (59 mph or 95 km/h). This innovative design uses hydrofoils to lift the hull out of the water for reduced drag and increased speed. Paul Larsen’s Vestas Sailrocket 2: Paul Larsen broke his own record in November 2012 with an impressive speed of 65.23 mph or 121 km/h) in Walvis Bay, Namibia. This achievement showcased the immense potential of catamarans for achieving high speeds on water.

In conclusion,

The speed at which a sail catamaran can go is determined by various factors such as hull design, sail area, rigging, wind conditions, sail trim, and weight. With the right combination of these elements, catamarans have achieved astonishing speeds, often surpassing those of traditional monohull sailboats. Whether you are a sailing enthusiast or simply curious about the capabilities of catamarans, exploring their impressive speed potential is sure to leave you in awe.

• Hull Design: Determines stability and drag.
• Sail Area: Larger sails generate more power.
• Rigging: Proper tension for efficient energy transfer.
• Wind Conditions: More wind means more speed.
• Sail Trim: Optimizing sail shape and angle.
• Weight: Lighter catamarans have less resistance.
• Sailrocket 2: Set a world record at 65.
• L’Hydroptère: Achieved a record of 51.
• Vestas Sailrocket 2: Broke the record again at an impressive speed of 65.

6 Related Question Answers Found

How fast can a catamaran sail, how long does it take to sail around the world on a catamaran, how close to the wind can a catamaran sail, can a catamaran sail across the ocean, how fast can you sail around the world, can a catamaran sail around the world.

Daniel Bennet

A Complete Catamaran Guide

• Post Written By: Boater Jer
• Published: January 26, 2020
• Updated: November 27, 2020

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We only recommend products we’ve tried/tested/own (that’s why you won’t find thousands of affiliate links on my site). If you have experience with one of the products we’ve mentioned, please share your experiences in the comments at the end.

There you are, out on the water when a strange craft approaches.  Is it a sailboat? It sure looks like one until it turns to face you.  That’s when you notice this boat doesn’t have just one hull. It has two hulls and it’s called a catamaran.

Catamarans are unique, and highly stable watercraft.  We’ll explore all the ins and outs of sailing the waters in one of these weird, and awesome multi-hulled craft.  Join me as we explore the wild world of sailing catamarans.

A History Of The Catamaran

It is believed that the first people to use a catamaran design were those living in Australasia.

The succession of boat design in this region was actually very interesting.  The beginning of boats in the area was simple, albeit conventional rafts. These were fashioned from logs strewn together with plant fiber lashings such as those formed using bamboo fiber.  

Catamaran Evolution

The conventional raft gave way to a minimal raft.  This design was basically a conventional raft with two cross beams added in the form of logs.  These would be eventually hollowed out to improve buoyancy.

The next step in the evolution of boats in the Australasian region was the double canoe.  This proved to be the first real catamarans.  

After some time, the form evolved further into the asymmetrical double canoe design.  In this design, one canoe was large and the other attached canoe was smaller.

The asymmetrical design quickly evolved into the single-outrigger boat like the one shown in the photo below.

The final stage of the evolution of the catamaran in the region was to gain a second outrigger.  This in effect created the trimaran with the single central hull and dual outriggers.

Eye Witness Accounts Of Catamarans

In 1697, William Dampier wrote of witnessing a type of seafaring vessel off the coast of Coromandel.  He noted how the locals called the type of boat a catamaran. He also noted that it had multiple hulls (logs) and that they were small vessels that the person operating would have to hang partway into the water, straddling the hull (log).

The name catamaran came from the Tamil.  And yet, it was easily applied by the European visitors to the two hulled sailing vessels that sped across the water in the region.

Although Dampier may have described the catamaran in the 1690s, the type of boat was actually used as early as the 5th century by the Tamil Chola dynasty.  They used boats to move their troops from one island to another. Using this design of boat allowed them to travel heavy, travel quickly and was partially responsible for the conquering of neighboring Burma, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

Building A Boat – Basics Of Catamaran Construction

A boat is usually thought of as being a single-hulled vessel that travels along the surface of the water.  It can have multiple types, shapes, and designs of the hull. However, it is often only thought of as having a single hull.  But, what if it had two hulls? Would that be like taking two separate boats, and making a raft over both of them? In essence, that is exactly what a catamaran is:  two boats made into one.

Advantages Of Multiple Hulls

• More stability than a monohull
• Wide supporting base allows for larger sails than monohull craft of the same length
• Hull does not require the deep-running keel of a standard monohull sailboat
• Less hull drag in the water than a monohull
• Less power required to drive a catamaran forward than a monohull boat

Disadvantages Of Multiple Hulls 

• Due to multiple hulls, construction is more expensive than a monohull design
• Catamaran speed relies on lightweight materials to make a lightweight craft.  This also drives up the cost of construction.
• Extra engineering requirements for multi-hull craft also increase the cost of construction.

Conclusion?  Well, it looks to me like everything about catamarans points towards superiority over monohulls in nearly every way.  But, you get what you pay for. I think the same thing likely applies to cars too. For instance, I have a performance car that cost me about 10k more than the equivalent non-sports car within the same class. 

Yet to drive the vehicle, it performs so much better than the normal version of the car, it really speaks volumes to the difference between a common vehicle, and a performance one.

Speaking of performance vehicles, let’s take a look now at the different kinds and uses of a catamaran.

Catamaran Types

Commercial catamarans – ferries.

One of the most common uses for a catamaran is the commercial use of the vehicle design when it comes to ferries.  This is likely due to the wide, flat deck possibilities of a catamaran versus a monohulled boat. Not only that, but the catamaran is also a much more stable bodied vessel.  This again makes it a superior design for transporting larger land vessels like trucks and so forth. They can easily drive on the ferry without fear of the ferry tipping over.

Some ferries are designed for taking vehicles, like the one you might find in the city of Toronto.  Where it transports cars from the mainland to Toronto Island. Others are designed specifically with the sole purpose of transporting people. I took a look at one such ferry that operates in Germany.  Take a look at the following case study.

Commercial Use Case Study – The Ferry

The FRS Helgoline is a ferry catamaran operating out of Flensburg, Germany, close to the Danish border.

According to the ferry company’s website, the ferry runs using four main engines which are run to a capacity of 12,182 hp combined.  This blasts this ferry at a speed of 35 knots or 65 km/hour. This is equivalent to 40 miles per hour. That’s pretty good considering the size and weight of the ship body this catamaran can carry.

Speaking of capacity, the ship can carry 680 passengers. At 56.4 meters long (185 feet) by 14 meters wide (45.9 feet), that’s a decent passenger capacity. 

Catamaran Passenger Capacity Versus Monohull Boat Passenger Capacity 

The general rule for calculating passenger capacity for a boat is as follows.

Length x Width / 15 = Passenger Capacity

Therefore, the FRS Helgoline should have a calculated capacity calculated as follows.

185 x 45.9 / 15 = 566  

But it actually has a capacity of 680 which is a 20% increase in capacity over a standard monohull.

For comparison, let’s look at a superyacht.  A 48.5m (159 feet) long by 10.7m (35 feet) beam (width of the boat) Palmer Johnson Supersport 48 (valued at about $28.5 million dollars) should have a capacity calculated as follows.

159 x 35 / 15 = 371

In short, 26 feet of difference in length equates to 309 fewer passengers.  It is almost half of the capacity of the catamaran at 26 feet longer length.

Photo courtesy of https://sysyachtsales.com/

Commercial Catamarans – Service Vehicles

Although Catamarans are typically used as ferries due to their stability and ability to carry wide loads on their flat decks, there are many different service catamarans out there as well.  From a support vessel to a crew transfer or search and rescue, catamarans are a solid and stable platform to build a ship on.

This is the Ardea which is a 20 meter (65.6 feet) catamaran to be used for crew transport and as a support ship.  This ship was built by the Echo Marine Group and delivered to Western Australia in early 2019. This particular vessel is in the service of the Cape Preston Sino Iron Project.  

Catamarans are used all around the world, for a variety of tasks, not just ferries or support craft.

Commercial Catamarans – Cruise Lines

Now these are the catamarans we all want to be aboard, aren’t they?  Due to the wide stance, these ships can feature massive halls and wide-open interior areas.  These ships are stable, and some would say even more stable and safer than monohull design ships.  

There are many cruise ship catamarans in use today around the world.  Some of the more ‘famous’ catamaran cruises are those which investigate the Galapagos Islands.  There are several high-end, small fleet, cruise lines operating to the Galapagos which utilize catamaran design vessels as their primary ship type. 

These ships can be extremely comfortable and stable and often offer some reprieve to those who may otherwise feel seasick. It won’t stop the feeling, but the more stable the hull, the less the boat rocks around.

Military Catamarans

Catamarans make excellent military transport vessels.  They are stable and the potential to have a large, flat and wide deck for transporting land craft, troops or acting as a landing pad for vertical take-off aerial craft.  The stability of the two hulls makes the vessel an excellent candidate for military use, and thus it is used for said purpose.

As you can clearly see in the image of the USNS Spearhead, the rear of the vessel has a moveable ramp that can be used for loading and unloading land vehicles.  The interior bay of the craft is visible in the image as well, a large area for storage of vehicles, supplies and more. The crane arm on the back of the ship also shows how it is a versatile craft, set up to act as an excellent support craft with a helicopter landing pad and ample storage and freight capacity.

Recreational Catamarans

Catamaran Personal WatercraftThe wind is in your hair, the warm spray from the hull cutting over the edge of each wave as you skip over the water.  That is life, let me tell you. Personal watercraft have come a long way over the years and the small one, two, three and four-person catamarans have come a long way as well. 

Depending on the options, you can get a small one or two-person catamaran for as little as $1500 new.  That might be an inflatable though. There are some very nice, rigid hull designed catamarans for 1-4 people that range from $3500 to $15000.  And these are basically open, personal watercraft like that shown in the image below.

Using a small catamaran can be quite challenging to learn at first.  Sailing is not for the faint of heart. It requires skill, technique, knowledge of the wind and sea, and a bit of hard work.  But it can be fun, rewarding and a great way to catch some sun and fresh air out on the water. It’s a relatively GREEN sport as well.   Given the use of sails over gas-powered motors that is.

‘Sailing Cats’ – Sailing Catamarans – Yacht & Luxury Class

Here’s where we get into the dreamy boats of the rich and famous.  I priced out a small 43’ luxury Leopard 40 sailing catamaran. Even before I added any extras at all, the base price was $399,000 USD.  I imagine if I added a few of the multiple extras available, and some tax, freight and that sort of thing, I’m easily in half a million dollars.  And that’s the smallest base model.

There are all kinds of luxury catamaran shipbuilders across the world.  From Asia to Europe and The Americas, it seems any major boating country has at least one company building luxury catamarans.  It’s weird that you don’t see more of them on the water though, don’t you think?

Being sailing vessels, these luxury cats require some training in sailing before you get behind the wheel.  And considering the price point, I would definitely want to be at least a semi-decent sailor with some good few years experience under my belt before I would comfortable at the helm of a half-million-dollar sailing cat.  It’s all relative I suppose. I imagine a billionaire might bat an eye at the prospect of wrecking a half-million-dollar boat. But to me, and most of you reading this, that’s likely a lot of money.

‘Power Cats’ – Powered Catamarans

The powered catamaran is one of my favorite boats.  They have sort of a muscle car appearance with the wide and often tall front end of the boats.  I find it to be reminiscent of a large air intake on the front hood of a rally race car like the Subaru WRX, for instance.  These boats are fast, they are stable and handle very well. Catamarans are often considered the boat of choice for long sea voyages due to their stability.  

A powered catamaran will definitely cost more than a powered monohull boat of the same length.  Why? Well, the powered catamaran has one crucial downside. That is, it needs two engines. One for each of the two hulls.  Otherwise, it’s off balance for propulsion. These two engines or motors have to be in sync with each other or again, the propulsion will be off-balance.  Because they have two motors, they have double the maintenance when it comes to maintaining the propulsion system.

More components also means a greater chance of things breaking down.  In essence, it doubles the chances of the ship having a motor break down. The saving grace is that should one motor break, they have a backup, even if it does mean very unbalanced propulsion.  In contrast, a monohull vessel of the same length may only have half the chance of motor failure due to only having one motor, but if that one motor breaks, then what? Call for help, that’s what.  A cat would have a struggling chance to get itself back to port. A monohull would be dead in the water unless it was carrying spare parts or another motor onboard somewhere.

Catamaran Frequently Asked Questions

What is a catamaran cruise.

A catamaran cruise is simply a cruise on a dual hull design boat.  Often used for river cruises, the catamaran which is used as cruise ships are often considerably smaller than their giant monohulled counterparts.

What is the purpose of a catamaran?

A catamaran is a design for a boat that utilizes two hulls.  Due to the flat, platform-like-potential for the deck of the boat, the catamaran is often purposed with transporting materials, vehicles, and people.  For instance, catamarans are quite often used as ferries.

Is catamaran safe?

Catamaran are very safe water craft.   The design of riding on two hulls separated by a gap in between, in essence is like giving a car a double-wide wheel base.  The wider the stance, the more stable the craft, from side to side anyway. And if the length of the boat is proportional to the width, then it becomes an extremely stable craft.  That is why catamarans are often considered the best to be used for long voyages. Yes, catamaran are safe.

What is the difference between a catamaran and a sailboat?

A traditional sailboat is a deep, monohull vessel that has at least one mast extending high into the air above the deck to hold sails.  A catamaran refers to the design of a dual-hull boat and really has nothing to do with sails. Although, catamaran do make excellent sailing boats as well, they are quite capable of acting as power boats and do not require sails if they have the correct amount of powered motors to propel them.  Sailboats, although also able to be powered if a motor is provided, are traditionally monohull and wind-powered exclusively.

Do catamarans have small interiors?

The size of an interior cabin on a boat is typically proportional to the size of the boat itself.  If a catamaran has above-deck cabins, they will likely be able to be of a larger design than those you would find on deck of a monohull boat.  This is because a catamaran has a much wider footprint than a monohull boat of the same length. This extra width would allow for larger on deck cabins.  

How much does a catamaran cost?

A personal watercraft (1-2 person) inflatable catamaran will run you anywhere from $1500-$12000 USD, depending on the quality and features.  The rigid hull catamarans of the same size start at about $4500 USD.

A small cabin cruiser type of catamaran will typically start at about $60000 for a small base model and the price just goes up and up depending on size and features.

For Instance, a 40’, 3 cabin with 1 washroom cat will cost you about $500,000 USD for the base model.  They are considerably more expensive that a monohull of the same length. However, the trade-off is greater stability and a smoother, more comfortable ride.

Is a catamaran more work to maintain?

Technically yes.  Due to having two hulls and if powered, two motors and likely also water jets, this means you have double the oil changes of a boat that would have a single motor.  Once you get past the basic engine and hull maintenance, a catamaran is not that much more work than a monohull ship of the same length.  

The trouble with catamarans in terms of maintenance, is that once they reach a certain length, the width becomes more than a standard lane on the road.  That being said, if you ever need to transport the boat via land, it can be quite the challenge. Especially if you need to pay to have a police escort for an extra-wide trailer.  And special licensing might be involved as well.

What is the difference between a catamaran and a trimaran?

A catamaran is a dual hull boat.  In other words, it has two hulls. A trimaran has three hulls.  

Is a catamaran considered a yacht?

According to Oxford dictionary, a yacht is a medium-sized sailboat equipped for cruising or racing.  A catamaran, on the other hand, is a boat with two hulls. Therefore, a catamaran can most certainly also be a yacht.  And likewise, if a yacht has two hulls, then it is a catamaran as well.

Can you get seasick on a catamaran?

Seasickness occurs when a person feels nauseous from the swaying motion of a rocking ship.  These feelings may be lessened on a catamaran, due to their extra stability. However, a catamaran may be slightly more stable than a monohull of the same length, but it is still a boat.  And it will still make someone who experiences seasickness continue to feel the ill effects.

Are catamarans more stable in rough seas?

Catamarans are known to be more stable than monohull ships of the same length.  This is why catamarans are often the ship type of choice for long sea voyages due to their stability.

Why do catamarans capsize?

Catamarans are not known for capsizing.  The larger vessels that is anyway. But, it does happen from time to time.  Catamarans are known for their stability, so typically if a capsize event should occur, it is typical for them to be extreme circumstances.  

Personal watercraft catamarans are a different story though.  These are in fact known for tipping over. Not because they are less stable than their monohull counterparts of the same length.  But instead, because they are able to go considerably faster than monohull personal watercraft of the same length (not including powered craft though).  This is due to the sailing cats being able to have a larger sail than a small monohull sailboat of the same length.

Due to the extra sail, they are able to travel faster than monohull sailboats of the same length.  This allows them to whip around on the water and at higher speeds, whipping your cat about quick can easily send it over sideways. Extra speed means fast turns carry momentum in the direction of travel and that extra speed equates to tipping over if turned too fast.  To sum up, they capsize due to user error or extreme events.

Which is safer, a catamaran or a monohull?

Due to the extra stability of having a wider footprint than a monohull, a catamaran of the same length is the safer vessel.

Are catamarans safer than sailboats?

The same rule applies to stability versus the length of the hull.  A cat will always be the more stable length for length. However, due to their ability to go much faster than a monohull sailboat, this kind of cancels out some of the added safety due to stability.  With that in mind, they may just be about the same but there is one generalization we can make when comparing the safety of catamarans vs sailboats: At the same speed, and of equal length, sailing or power catamaran will be safer than a monohull sailboat.

How fast can catamarans go?

The speed a catamaran can go is entirely dependent upon the hull design, weight of the vessel, the strength of propulsion (be it wind or powered) and so on.  The general rule is that in terms of sailing cats vs monohull sailboats, a cat of equal length can typically go faster than a sailboat.  

In terms of powered cats vs powerboats, a powered catamaran will typically require less energy to move forward than a monohull of the same sort of hull design (but monohull of course) and thus a cat should, in theory, be able to go faster than a monohull when both are using propulsion that is equal in power.

Bibliography

• Wikipedia – Catamarans
• Mahdi, Waruno (1999). “The Dispersal of Austronesian boat forms in the Indian Ocean”. In Blench, Roger; Spriggs, Matthew (eds.). Archaeology and Language III: Artefacts languages, and texts . One World Archaeology. 34 . Routledge. pp. 144–179. ISBN 0415100542 .
• Wikipedia – Spearhead -class expeditionary fast transport
• https://www.tiki-toki.com/timeline/entry/169516/Origin-of-the-catamaran/#vars!panel=1620923!
• https://www.austal.com/ships/passenger-express-56
• https://www.adventure-life.com/galapagos/galapagos-catamaran-cruises

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Sail GP: how do supercharged racing yachts go so fast? An engineer explains

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Sailing used to be considered as a rather sedate pastime. But in the past few years, the world of yacht racing has been revolutionised by the arrival of hydrofoil-supported catamarans, known as “foilers”. These vessels, more akin to high-performance aircraft than yachts, combine the laws of aerodynamics and hydrodynamics to create vessels capable of speeds of up to 50 knots, which is far faster than the wind propelling them.

An F50 catamaran preparing for the Sail GP series recently even broke this barrier, reaching an incredible speed of 50.22 knots (57.8mph) purely powered by the wind. This was achieved in a wind of just 19.3 knots (22.2mph). F50s are 15-metre-long, 8.8-metre-wide hydrofoil catamarans propelled by rigid sails and capable of such astounding speeds that Sail GP has been called the “ Formula One of sailing ”. How are these yachts able to go so fast? The answer lies in some simple fluid dynamics.

As a vessel’s hull moves through the water, there are two primary physical mechanisms that create drag and slow the vessel down. To build a faster boat you have to find ways to overcome the drag force.

The first mechanism is friction. As the water flows past the hull, a microscopic layer of water is effectively attached to the hull and is pulled along with the yacht. A second layer of water then attaches to the first layer, and the sliding or shearing between them creates friction.

On the outside of this is a third layer, which slides over the inner layers creating more friction, and so on. Together, these layers are known as the boundary layer – and it’s the shearing of the boundary layer’s molecules against each other that creates frictional drag.

A yacht also makes waves as it pushes the water around and under the hull from the bow (front) to the stern (back) of the boat. The waves form two distinctive patterns around the yacht (one at each end), known as Kelvin Wave patterns.

These waves, which move at the same speed as the yacht, are very energetic. This creates drag on the boat known as the wave-making drag, which is responsible for around 90% of the total drag. As the yacht accelerates to faster speeds (close to the “hull speed”, explained later), these waves get higher and longer.

These two effects combine to produce a phenomenon known as “ hull speed ”, which is the fastest the boat can travel – and in conventional single-hull yachts it is very slow. A single-hull yacht of the same size as the F50 has a hull speed of around 12 mph.

However, it’s possible to reduce both the frictional and wave-making drag and overcome this hull-speed limit by building a yacht with hydrofoils . Hydrofoils are small, underwater wings. These act in the same way as an aircraft wing, creating a lift force which acts against gravity, lifting our yacht upwards so that the hull is clear of the water.

While an aircraft’s wings are very large, the high density of water compared to air means that we only need very small hydrofoils to produce a lot of the important lift force. A hydrofoil just the size of three A3 sheets of paper, when moving at just 10 mph, can produce enough lift to pick up a large person.

This significantly reduces the surface area and the volume of the boat that is underwater, which cuts the frictional drag and the wave-making drag, respectively. The combined effect is a reduction in the overall drag to a fraction of its original amount, so that the yacht is capable of sailing much faster than it could without hydrofoils.

The other innovation that helps boost the speed of racing yachts is the use of rigid sails . The power available from traditional sails to drive the boat forward is relatively small, limited by the fact that the sail’s forces have to act in equilibrium with a range of other forces, and that fabric sails do not make an ideal shape for creating power. Rigid sails, which are very similar in design to an aircraft wing, form a much more efficient shape than traditional sails, effectively giving the yacht a larger engine and more power.

As the yacht accelerates from the driving force of these sails, it experiences what is known as “ apparent wind ”. Imagine a completely calm day, with no wind. As you walk, you experience a breeze in your face at the same speed that you are walking. If there was a wind blowing too, you would feel a mixture of the real (or “true” wind) and the breeze you have generated.

The two together form the apparent wind, which can be faster than the true wind. If there is enough true wind combined with this apparent wind, then significant force and power can be generated from the sail to propel the yacht, so it can easily sail faster than the wind speed itself.

The combined effect of reducing the drag and increasing the driving power results in a yacht that is far faster than those of even a few years ago. But all of this would not be possible without one further advance: materials. In order to be able to “fly”, the yacht must have a low mass, and the hydrofoil itself must be very strong. To achieve the required mass, strength and rigidity using traditional boat-building materials such as wood or aluminium would be very difficult.

This is where modern advanced composite materials such as carbon fibre come in. Production techniques optimising weight, rigidity and strength allow the production of structures that are strong and light enough to produce incredible yachts like the F50.

The engineers who design these high-performance boats (known as naval architects ) are always looking to use new materials and science to get an optimum design. In theory, the F50 should be able to go even faster.

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How fast are catamarans

Oct 26, 2020

less than a min

Catamarans are multi-hull vessels composed of two hulls. This geometry allows them to be balanced on water and in turn gain a great deal of speed. Compared to single-hull boats, catamarans are regarded as much faster. But how fast are catamarans actually ?

Catamarans come in various types and sizes. They start from 14 feet up to 100 feet. Each one can reach a different speed limit. Typically, a cruising catamaran sails at 15 knots . A sport cruising catamaran can reach 30 knots . A racing catamaran is somewhat faster and can sail at 45 knots . The power cruising catamaran is probably the fastest vessel and can travel at 70 knots .

One of the main features that make catamarans so fast is the integration of assisting foils that lift the boat off the water. In addition, catamarans are equipped with stability advancements that allow them to gain speed in the ocean.

To better understand how fast catamarans are , they are divided into three groups:

• The sport boats
• The racing ones
• The cruising catamarans

The sport catamarans are recreational vessels designed for a small crew. Their interior is limited as well. Most of them have no living quarters as they are only used for short trips. Some sport catamarans are also used for racing, however, the maximum speed they reach in ideal conditions is 40 knots .

Racing catamarans are used in ocean races and rallies. They are large yachts that can go up to 100 feet and sail at a maximum of 45 knots .

Cruising catamarans on the other hand are more comfortable vessels used for ocean crossing as well. They are equipped with luxurious living quarters. Because of their size, load and volume, these catamarans usually sail at 10 knots , with a maximum speed of 15 knots in ideal conditions.

Some catamarans on the other hand are fitted with powerful motors that favor speed over space. The most common catamaran of this category is the power cruising catamarans . These boats have living quarters and offer the same stability as sailing catamarans. However, the integration of a powerful motor allows these vessels to reach about 70 miles per hour . These catamarans are typically used for passenger travels to shorten the trip between two relatively close destinations such as the mainland and a not-so-remote island.

Power catamarans are also used by the military to transport items. They are particularly on-demand as they can sail in shallow waters as well.

In terms of their performance, catamarans have less resistance to water. Their hulls are smaller so they also have a smaller bow wave created by water displacement to fight. In addition, catamarans only need 4 times the power to double their speed, which is much less power than a monohull would require. Apart from using less energy, catamarans are also good at conserving energy.

Moreover, they are stable and can resist capsizing more than other vessels. They have twin engines that provide more control over speed and stability. Last but not least, catamarans offer smoother voyages and are great for entertainment.

All in all, catamarans can achieve a 30% faster speed than monohulls. Learn more interesting facts about catamarans with TheBoatAPP . Compare these vessels at TheBoatDB . Follow our blog for more interesting facts!

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How is Catamaran Sailing Different from Monohull Sailing?

Sailing a catamaran is very similar to sailing a monohull in most aspects. If you learn to sail on a monohull, most of the skills are easily transferable. However, there are a couple of subtle differences that one has to be aware of:

• When tacking, you must work hard to maintain your speed throughout the tack and often need to ease your mainsheet to prevent “windvaning”. Windvaning is when the larger mainsail on a catamaran tries to turn the boat back into the wind.
• When gybing on a monohull, you must be very careful of an accidental gybe, and so you gybe much more slowly. On a catamaran, you can use the increased speed to your advantage and maintain speed while gybing to help depower the main.
• On a monohull, as winds increase, the boat starts heeling which lets you know that you have too much sail up and it’s time to reef. On a catamaran, because they do not heel, you have to be very careful in terms of when to reef the massive main. Typically, you will throw in the first reef at 18-20 knots of wind speed (depending on the size of your vessel) and put in a second reef as the wind gets closer to 23-25 kts)

Most aspects of sailing a catamaran are very similar to a monohull, so making the transition to a sailing catamaran is usually not that challenging of a process!

Why are Catamarans Popular?

Catamarans have exploded in popularity in the last 5 years! There are many advantages to catamarans over monohulls.

• Much more space on a catamaran!
• Catamarans are far more stable than monohulls so they do not heel when sailing, and are less prone to rocking when at anchor. Making for a much more comfortable boat!
• Catamarans have a shallow draft which allows them to enter shallower areas. In the South Pacific, most lagoons are 6-8 feet deep. This is too shallow for monohulls to enter, but a catamaran can easily enter these lagoons.
• Speed: Often, especially downwind, catamarans are faster than monohulls
• More light and airy living area. On a catamaran, the living space is usually up in the middle of the boat, built on the bridge deck whereas in a monohull you go down into the hull where it is darker and feels less open.
• More storage space and room for extra systems like air conditioning, water makers, generators, larger fridges and freezers, etc… Again, having room for all these amenities makes for more comfortable living.

What is a Catamaran?

A catamaran is a sailboat with two hulls. These two hulls are connected by a bridge deck. Many people will be familiar with Hobie cats, small catamarans that are popular for sailing on lakes and in calmer waters. Cruising catamarans are based on this same principle but have large hulls that can fit many cabins inside, and house large structures on the bridge deck (like a galley, salon and living area).

Are catamarans safer than monohull sailboats?

Great question! Catamarans are much more stable than monohulls, and so people are less likely to fall overboard, which does make them safer in this aspect. They are larger, more stable boats, and so in most situations, this will make them a “safer” sailboat than a comparably sized monohull.

Catamarans also have the advantage of having 2 engines, which makes them “safer” when it comes to engine problems. On a monohull sailboat , if you have major engine problems you only have the option of sailing. On a catamaran, you always have a second motor ready to help out in an emergency!

Are catamarans easier to sail?

What makes monohulls harder to sail is heeling and more confined spaces. In stronger winds monohulls heel, making most tasks a little more difficult to manage. Whether you are going forward to reef, trying to winch in a sail or moving about the boat, sailing on a heeling boat is more challenging. Catamarans, however, because of their extra stability and room, allow for much easier movement around the boat as they do not heel. For this reason, catamarans are often considered “easier” to sail.

Can a catamaran cross the Atlantic?

Definitely! Early on many catamarans and trimarans were home-built from kits, and many of these boats gave catamarans a bad rap for offshore sailing. For decades now the major catamaran manufacturers have been improving these amazing vessels, and now catamarans are safe, stable and fast on offshore passages. In 2020 we completed an Atlantic crossing in our very own Never Say Never Lagoon 400S2 catamaran.

How fast does a catamaran sail?

Not all catamarans are created equal. Many of the production catamarans like Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot and Leopard are designed for cruising. This means that they are willing to sacrifice some performance in the interest of comfort for their owners and crew. These boats still are often faster than a monohull of comparable size when on a beam reach or downwind point of sail, often seeing speeds in the double digits. Upwind, catamarans do not usually have the same ability to point into the wind (as they have shorter, stubbier keels) and do not travel as quickly.

Some high-performance catamarans from manufacturers like Outremer, Gunboat and HH, make incredibly fast catamarans that can achieve speeds in the high teens and low 20s under ideal conditions.

Want to learn more?

Learning to sail a catamaran has it’s differences from monohulls. If you are planning on sailing catamarans, then it’s best to spend a week onboard one learning how to sail and operate these vessels. We offer catamaran sailing courses in the Grenadines (Caribbean), Sea of Cortez (Mexico), Mallorca (Spain) and Tahiti (South Pacific).

Our week-long live aboard courses truly are an incredible experience! You will spend the week learning over 100 different skills and learn to comfortably sail and operate the vessel. Upon successful completion of the course, you will earn ASA certification 101, 103, 104 and 114 (up to Cruising Catamaran certification) which allows you to charter catamarans internationally.

This intensive course will give you the knowledge, skills and experience to charter catamarans, or help you set sail on your vessel! All while having a blast, snorkelling, hiking and exploring exclusive bays.

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What Are The Fastest Sailboats? (Complete List)

Whenever you are looking into buying a sailboat, they often tell you how fast it can go. So naturally, customers want to know, what are the fastest sailboats?

Depending on the model and brand of a sailboat, in addition to the right conditions out on the water, this answer can vary. But which sailboats are known to be the fastest?

Each style of sailboat has its advantages that make it fast. The V.O 60, X-Yachts X4.0, and Beneteau Oceanis 30.1 are great examples of fast monohull boats. For multihull boats, Rapido 60 (Trimaran), Dragonfly 40 (Trimaran), and ICE Cat 61 (Catamaran) are some of the fastest in that category.

The list can go on when you are talking about specialized performance boats, foiling boats, and even windsurfers. However, the most common sailboats that people can relate to are either monohulls or multihulls.

According to sailing experts, fast can mean 12 knots if you are only used to going about half that speed. But when you speak about the fastest sailboats, they usually top around 30 knots or more out on the water.

Table of contents

‍ What Makes a Sailboat Fast?

A lot of variables come into play to help a sailboat reach its maximum potential for going fast. While the person running the boat is the one responsible for making it go fast, the weather conditions and type of boat have to be good in order to reach top speeds.

If a boat is not designed to handle rougher conditions, you will struggle with performance in those situations. If you have a boat that is built for anything nature throws at it, you might have better stability but considerably less speed even in good conditions.

Weight and Power of Boat

If you were to have two objects with different weights and put the same amount of force on them, the lighter object moves faster. This is why lighter boats move quicker than heavier boats.

So if you were to put two boats at one end of a race head to head with the same conditions of wind and sailing area, the lighter boat wins. This is because the lighter boat is able to gain speed quickly due to the less weight it holds.

The weight of the hull is only one part of the equation, as the mast can hold a lot of weight too. If there is a way to reduce the weight on the boat, you will have a better chance at going faster.

This is why fast boats typically are made out of materials such as carbon fiber or fiberglass. If the boat is a multi-hull without a keel, this also cuts down on weight.

Friction and Wetted Surface

Water adds a ton of friction to the boat, so a fast boat needs to be able to cut through it efficiently. In addition, some boats have finely polished exteriors to help glide through the water and reduce drag.

Depending on the shape of the hull and how much wetter surface it has can greatly affect the amount of drag it has. For example, displacement hulls change as the boat heels in the water.

For multihulls, these lift the hull out of the water slightly to reduce drag. Hydrofoils are another example that lifts the entire boat out of the water to greatly reduce the wetted surface.

Sail Area and Wind

The bigger the sails are on a boat does not necessarily mean the boat will be the fastest. While the sailing area is critical for speed, it has to match the sailing area to displacement ratio.

The sail area needs to be more about the lift of the sails rather than the size of them. If the proper sails are there, then the boat should be able to reach its maximum potential if the wind conditions are right.

Fastest Sailboat Types

The type of sailboat makes a big difference in speed since it has different characteristics. These include HP monohulls, catamarans, and trimarans.

Each boat type will have a unique position in the water, making it potentially faster than another type. If you want to compare boats in perfect conditions, you can see how one stacks up to another.

HP Monohulls

HP monohulls gain a lot of their speed by being powered by a motor. While they have the capability to sail using the wind, they have the convenience of a motor to help push them along.

So the outboard motor needs to be able to handle the weight of the boat efficiently in order to help reach top speeds. A lot of larger boats need to be pushed along by multiple motors.

Monohulls in general are favored by many sailors since they have that traditional look to them. They also happen to be very common, but multi-hulls are making things competitive in the market.

Catamarans do not have a keel and it helps reduce the weight of the boat. They also displace less water compared to a monohull. However, not all catamarans go fast.

Depending on the catamaran and its capabilities, there is some that glide effortlessly on the water. These ideally work best in good conditions but will be a bumpy ride if the water is a little choppy.

They offer one of the safest rides on the water and are essentially unsinkable due to their design. They spread out their weight over a larger area on the water, making them more stable than a monohull.

In addition, the living space on a monohull is huge compared to a monohull. With about a 40-foot catamaran, it has around the same living space as a 60-foot monohull.

Trimarans are another unique style of sailboat similar to a catamaran. They have three hulls side by side instead of two, making it very stable.

They also have a wide sail area and make for quick spurts out on the water. However, they also need good conditions to operate their best to move fast.

These displace water similar to a catamaran and are more stable. They also tend to go faster in the right conditions than a catamaran.

Both catamarans and trimarans generally have shallow drafts and can be beached. In coastal waters, monohulls have to watch out for their draft since they have a keel.

Fastest Monohull Sailboats

Some of the fastest monohull sailboats have unique characteristics that set it apart from other monohulls. These include sail area, weight, and wetted surface.

The beauty about monohulls is the keel, which has its advantages in tougher conditions. If you were to race a monohull against a multihull in moderate conditions, the monohull has a better chance at navigating through the water due to the keel and potentially going faster. The keel allows the boat to heel from one side to the other and come back to the center.

The Volvo Ocean 60 is one of the fastest monohull sailboats you can find. It is a perfect example of an offshore sailboat that is usually handled by four professional sailors and eight mates on deck.

This boat is roughly 64 feet long and sits about 12 feet in the water. The fastest that these boats go ranges around 35 to 40 knots, but it takes the right conditions and a little bit of patience for that large of a boat.

2. X-Yachts X4.0

The X4.0 yacht was a winner of the European Yacht of the Year award in 2020. It is a fairly new boat design, as it debuted in 2019.

This 40 foot luxury yacht is a top-of-the-line performance cruiser that is built for speed and is lightweight. Sitting about eight feet in the water, this boat can reach up to 10 knots or potentially more with the right conditions. You can quickly reach these speeds due to its size and weight.

3. Beneteau Oceanis 30.1

The Beneteau Oceanis 30.1 is another great example of a power cruising yacht that is new to the scene in 2019. At around 31 feet, it is one of the smaller yachts on the list but packs a powerful punch in performance and speed.

The max draft of this one is just shy of 6.5 feet and it received the Best Performance Cruiser in 2020. While this one, in particular, is built more for luxury and comfort, you can easily see top speeds ranging from 7.5 to 10 knots.

4. Santa Cruz 52

The Santa Cruz 52 is a perfect combination of a lightweight sloop and a blue water racer. At 53 feet long and a draft of nine feet, this boat is a beauty to see go fast.

These are often compared to the original Swan sailboats around the same length, as far as the class and style of the boat. In good conditions, they top around eight knots on a good day.

The Amel 60 is another beauty of a luxury yacht cruiser spanning almost 60 feet in length and nearly an eight-foot draft. This boat began production in 2019 and received the 2020 European Yacht of the Year Luxury Cruiser award.

With a reliance on the engine, you can push the boat a little harder in good conditions to gain more speed. While topping out the engine, you are looking at anywhere between eight and 10 knots.

Fastest Multihull Sailboats

Multihull sailboats are generally faster than monohull sailboats due to their lack of extra weight. These are up to 30 percent faster in that situation.

The only downside is that if you want to reach those maximum speeds, you cannot add a lot of extra weight to the vessel. So for sailors that want to utilize a multihull’s full potential, they need to consider what they bring on board and how many people they have.

1. Rapido 60 (Trimaran)

The Rapido 60 is one of the fastest multihulls out there for its size. At nearly 60 feet in length and almost 11 feet in draft, this unsinkable trimaran can speed up to 25 knots.

These were first built in 2015 and are a popular trimaran to look at if you are wanting the space. In the right conditions, the manufacturer says you can easily reach 30 knots if not more.

2. Dragonfly 40 (Trimaran)

The Dragonfly 40 is one of the few 40-footers out there that you can operate shorthanded. While it typically accommodates six to eight people, the boat’s design allows it to be easily handled.

According to the manufacturer, they claim it can reach 24 knots. Assuming the conditions are perfect, it could potentially reach more.

3. ICE Cat 61 (Catamaran)

The ICE Cat 61 is just a tad over 61 feet long and is one of the more beautiful catamarans you will ever see. For its size and design, it is impressive to see it reach top speeds.

With just the motors alone, you can easily reach 13.5 knots. If all the right conditions are in play, you can expect to reach up to 25 knots.

4. SIG45 (Catamaran)

The SIG 45 is a 45-foot racing cruiser that can comfortably hold about six people. With features like low dragging bows, carbon fiber material found in spars and bulkheads, and around 1,400 square feet of sailing area to play with, you can expect top performance all the way around.

It is estimated that this boat can safely top out around 20 knots. However, there is room for more knots in the best conditions.

5. Lagoon 67 S (Catamaran)

The Lagoon 67S is one of the rarest catamarans you will ever see. There were only four built from 1993 to 1995 by Jeanneau Technologies Avancées and are a gorgeous sight to see.

Regardless of the age of this boat, it still flies in the right conditions like the newer catamarans you see today. You can expect to reach a little over 20 knots for this 67 footer and about five feet of draft.

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Daniel Wade

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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How SailGP’s foiling F50 catamarans sail so much faster than the wind

Arguably the most technologically advanced sailboats on the planet right now, the one-design SailGP F50 foiling catamarans are capable of breathtaking speeds – at times, reaching four times the velocity of the wind that drives them. But how do they do it?

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How Fast Can a Catamaran Sail?

What is a catamaran? This question is asked by many people, especially those who have never seen this type of boat before. A catamaran is a type of sailboat that has a few key differences from regular sailboats and boats. In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of catamarans and how they compare to both each other and other boats.

What is a catamaran and how does it sail?

A catamaran is a type of sailboat that is characterized by having two hulls, or pontoons, attached to one another. Catamarans are often used for pleasure cruising and racing and are able to reach high speeds due to their design.

It is powered by sails and is mainly used for recreation. Catamarans are stable and can sail in shallow waters. They are also faster than monohull vessels because they have less drag. The speed of a catamaran heavily depends on the wind conditions and the size of the vessel.

How fast can a catamaran sail and what are the speeds for different types of catamarans?

As we said earlier, the speed of a catamaran depends on the wind conditions and the size of the boat. Most catamarans can sail at speeds between 15 and 30 knots. Some racing catamarans can reach speeds of up to 30 knots. Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule and some catamarans can sail faster or slower depending on the conditions.

However, the average cruising speed for a catamaran is around 12 knots. This means that it would take approximately five hours to travel 60 nautical miles.

Factors that affect a catamaran’s speed

There are a few factors that can affect the speed of a catamaran. The first is the wind. If the wind is blowing against the boat, it will slow it down. The second factor is the size of the boat. A larger catamaran will usually be slower than a smaller one. The third factor is the type of sails that are being used. Some sails are designed to go faster in certain conditions than others.

There are a variety of types of catamarans, such as ultralight, cruisers, and sport catamarans which all have different amenities. Catamarans as a whole are built to pierce through waves making them a fantastic boat for ocean waters. Depending on what type of catamaran you’re in, there will be a difference in the performance of each.

The best wind conditions for sailing a catamaran

The best wind conditions for sailing a catamaran are when the wind is blowing from behind the boat. This is because the sails will be able to catch more wind and the boat will be pushed forward. When the wind is blowing from the side, it can create drag and slow the boat down. If the wind is too strong, it can also cause the boat to tip over.

The best way to sail in different types of winds is to adjust the sails accordingly. For example, if it is windy, you would want to reef, or lower, the sails so that they are not catching as much wind.

Fun Activities for Catamaran Rides

A catamaran is a great way to get out and explore when you’re near the beach. Whether you have a friend with a boat or want to take a tour, it’s guaranteed to be a fun and unique experience.

If you ever find yourself on the Big Island of Hawaii, there are a variety of businesses that can take you out on a catamaran for different fun activities. We at Kona Style offer a variety of exciting outdoor activities, such as a manta ray night snorkeling trip , or a simple afternoon snorkel and sail along the Hawaiian coast. You have a bunch of different snorkeling tour options when you book with Kona Style.

Whatever you’re looking for, someone on the island can offer it. Make sure to do your research and figure out what catamaran sailing adventure is best for you.

Time to Sail

Now that you know what a catamaran is and what they can do out in the water – you can start planning your sailing adventure. These versatile boats can accommodate pretty much any activity you have planned for the water – from a relaxing cruise in the sunset to snorkeling late at night with the manta rays.

We at Kona Style offer a variety of ways to get out and experience the power of catamaran and explore the Hawaiian waters. Call us now at (808) 936-1323 or email us at [email protected] with any questions you may have about your vacation. We hope you’ve enjoyed this blog post.

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> > Please support our sponsors and let them know you heard about their products on Cruisers Forums. 26-08-2017, 08:26   ? I know that most catamarans sailing speed ranges between 7-15knts but I was wondering how they perform under . I understand that a larger will cause them to go faster, but do they have a max like a sailboat, or will they perform more like a large pontoon or a "power catamaran" under ? For example, lets say their is a 30ft sailing with a 60hp attached to it. If the beam is 14.5ft and the is 7000 lbs. Is there an equation that I can use to determine approximate cruising speed or can anyone reference and examples that may be similar to this case so I can off a baseline? Thanks a ton. 26-08-2017, 08:54   Boat: crowther trimaran 33 . There is not much reason to consider motoring speeds. 26-08-2017, 09:47   are more complicated. The formula for catamaran is 1.34*(wetted length)1/2; however, this drag formula is generally not the limiting factor for catamaran speed. This is because with waterline length to beam ratios greater than 8:1 are not limited by hydrodynamic drag factors, whereas smaller need to plane to do so (planing requires enormous amounts of power for hulls). A more important factor to consider is the prismatic coefficient, Cp. Cp = V/(LBP*Am), where V is the volume of displaced by the , LBP is the length between perpendiculars, and Am is the area at midship. I felt really smart for a few seconds....but I copied all that from ...have no idea what it means. 26-08-2017, 10:16   . However, narrower hulls can get away with a lower prismatic coefficient. The ideal range of Cp for a catamaran is between 0.61 and 0.65. There are a few ways of increasing the prismatic coefficients: sailors can use bulb bows, a wide planing aft segment, or a flat hull rocker in conjunction with a bustle aft. Though high prismatic coefficients increase drag at low speed, at high speeds they can reduce drag by as much as ten percent. I think what all this means is that if you put a 60hp in a 30' cat, it gonna go like hell. That's all I got to say about it; and I'm sticking to it. 26-08-2017, 11:37   Boat: Hitchhiker, Catamaran, 40' 26-08-2017, 13:25   Boat: Prout Snowgoose 35 at a good cruising with a 30hp . More often that not I get around 5-6knts. The same Cat with a 40hp will do close to 8knts. I've been on larger catamarans that will easily do 10knts using just one engine, but perhaps something in the 7knt range is more common for Lagoons and the like. 26-08-2017, 13:57   450 cruises on one 54 HP engine at 2200rpm around 6knots at of around 3.8 litres per hr. With Both engines at 2400 revs 8.3 kn with 9.4 litres per hour. Both engines flat out 9.1 knots 3000 is 20.5 Litres per hour 26-08-2017, 14:11   Boat: Chamberlin 11.6 catamaran at about 8-9 knots top speed. Going 8 knots will use about 50% more than 7 knots so you motor at 6-7 instead. Drag is related to the square if the boat speed so going fast needs huge amounts of power and fuel. I added a second motor to my boat - and got an extra 1 top speed with almost double fuel consumption - 9.9 knots now. Sailing cats and power cats have very different shapes. A power cat has straight aft sections and a sailing cat has upsweep in the line. The two are very different and you can't make a power cat shape well when sailing in lighter winds and upwind and you can't make a sailing shape work well at high speeds under power. Just chill out and go at 7 knots. Even though our boat has hit 19.9 knots, we average about 7.5 to 8.5 most of the time. You don't go that fast. 26-08-2017, 14:29   Boat: Fountaine Pajot - Lucia 40 , 26-08-2017, 14:34   26-08-2017, 14:57   Boat: Fountaine Pajot - Lucia 40 26-08-2017, 15:00   26-08-2017, 15:20   Boat: Leopard 39 26-08-2017, 16:44   Boat: TRT 1200 top speed with almost double fuel consumption - 9.9 knots now. Sailing cats and power cats have very different shapes. A power cat has straight aft sections and a sailing cat has upsweep in the line. The two are very different and you can't make a power cat shape work well when sailing in lighter winds and upwind and you can't make a sailing shape work well at high speeds under power. Just chill out and go at 7 knots. Even though our boat has hit 19.9 knots, we average about 7.5 to 8.5 most of the time. You don't go that fast. 26-08-2017, 17:28   Boat: Searunner 40 trimaran, WILDERNESS 40 , 30 hp with folding 18x12 prop = 8 knots at 2300 rpm, 20 knots under sail, unless I'm really nutso. , , , Thread Tools Rate This Thread : Posting Rules post new threads post replies post attachments edit your posts is are code is are are are Similar Threads Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post freetime Multihull Sailboats 430 19-11-2022 10:48 Cap Bill Des Auxiliary Equipment & Dinghy 35 23-02-2018 09:15 riderjuan Seamanship & Boat Handling 27 07-06-2014 14:29 freetime Multihull Sailboats 3 28-06-2010 09:55 - - - - - - - Privacy Guaranteed - your email is never shared with anyone, opt out any time. How To Sail A Catamaran? (A Detailed Step-By-Step Guide) Are you an adventurous soul looking for an exciting way to explore the open waters? If so, then sailing a catamaran may just be the perfect activity for you! Catamarans are becoming increasingly popular for sailing due to their stability and speed, and when sailed correctly, can be a powerfully enjoyable experience. This guide will walk you through the basics of sailing a catamaran, from understanding the basics of sailing to handling the boat in different conditions and beyond. Here, we will cover the differences between a monohull and a catamaran, balancing the boat, basic sailing techniques, safety precautions, and tips for improving your catamaran sailing skills. So grab your gear and lets get sailing! Table of Contents Short Answer Sailing a catamaran is relatively straightforward. To get started, adjust the sails and rudder to the desired angles. Next, begin to move forward using the power of the wind and the force of the sails. While underway, make sure to constantly adjust the sails and rudder to maintain the desired course. Finally, when ready to stop, lower the sails and use the rudder to bring the catamaran to a stop. Understanding the Basics of Sailing Learning how to sail a catamaran can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but before you can take to the open waters you need to understand the basics of sailing. It is important to familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of sailing, such as understanding wind direction and how to use sails. Knowing the basics is essential for anyone wanting to sail a catamaran, as it will allow you to make informed decisions when sailing and will help keep you safe on the water. Understanding wind direction is a key part of sailing, as it will help you determine the best way to sail and how to use the sails to propel the boat in the desired direction. This can be done by looking at the flags or flags on other boats in the area, as well as by analyzing the behavior of the waves and the wind. Additionally, you should also learn the different points of sail, which are the directions a boat can sail relative to the wind. In addition to understanding wind direction, it is also important to understand how to use the sails of a catamaran. The sails of a catamaran are made up of two mainsails, which are the two large sails on either side of the boat, as well as a jib, which is a smaller sail located at the front. Knowing how to properly set the sails will allow you to make the most of the wind and propel the boat in the desired direction. Additionally, you should also learn how to trim the sails, as this will help you to optimize the boats performance in different wind conditions. Understanding the basics of sailing and how to use the sails of a catamaran is essential for anyone wanting to learn how to sail a catamaran. With the right knowledge and practice, sailing a catamaran can be an incredibly rewarding experience. The Differences Between a Monohull and a Catamaran When it comes to sailing a catamaran, it is important to understand the differences between a monohull and a catamaran. A monohull is a single-hulled boat with a keel that runs along the bottom of the boat. This helps keep the boat stable and upright in the water. A catamaran, on the other hand, has two hulls which are usually connected by a bridgedeck. This helps to create a more stable platform in the water and allows for more open space on the boat. There are some important differences between sailing a monohull and a catamaran. For example, a monohull requires more power to move through the water and is more limited in terms of maneuverability. On the other hand, a catamaran is more maneuverable and can be sailed in a variety of conditions. Additionally, a catamaran is inherently more stable in the water and can handle larger waves. Another important difference between a monohull and a catamaran is the way they are balanced. A monohull relies on its keel for stability and must be balanced evenly along the length of the boat. On the other hand, a catamaran relies on the two hulls to remain balanced and can be sailed with one hull slightly higher than the other. This allows for greater maneuverability and can help to reduce drag in the water. Finally, a catamaran is more efficient than a monohull and can be sailed at higher speeds for longer distances. This makes it ideal for longer trips and open-water sailing. Balancing the Boat When it comes to sailing a catamaran, one of the most important steps is learning how to balance the boat. This is because catamarans have two hulls, which means that they have twice the length and twice the width of a single-hull boat. This can make it more difficult to keep the boat upright and stable in the water. When sailing a catamaran, it is important to keep the hulls balanced so that the boat remains stable. The easiest way to do this is to make sure that the weight is evenly distributed between the two hulls. This can be done by ensuring that the sail is properly adjusted and that the passengers are sitting evenly between the two hulls. Additionally, it is important to keep an eye on the wind direction and make sure that the sails are adjusted accordingly. Furthermore, it is important to be aware of the boats center of gravity. This is the point at which the boats weight is evenly distributed between the two hulls. If the boat is not properly balanced, then it can become difficult to control, especially in rough conditions. It is important to be aware of the boats center of gravity at all times and adjust the weight distribution accordingly. Finally, it is important to remember that cats are less forgiving than other types of boats. This means that any errors in balance or sail trim can be exaggerated and lead to a dangerous situation. Therefore, it is important to practice balancing the boat in calm waters before venturing out in rougher conditions. By following these steps, sailing a catamaran should be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. With the right knowledge and practice, anyone can learn how to sail a catamaran safely and confidently. Handling the Boat in Different Conditions When sailing a catamaran, it is important to understand how to handle the boat in different conditions, such as in waves and strong winds. In wave conditions, the key is to keep the boat balanced. This means keeping the weight evenly distributed between the two hulls and using the sail to keep the boat stable. To do this, you can adjust the angle of the sail and the trim of the boat to match the waves. It is also important to keep an eye on the wind direction, as this can affect the boats stability. In strong winds, it is important to know how to properly balance the boat. This means keeping the weight evenly distributed between the two hulls and using the sails to keep the boat stable. You can adjust the trim of the sail and the angle of the sail to match the wind direction. It is also important to keep an eye on the wind speed, as this can affect how much power you need to use in the sails. Finally, it is important to know how to handle the boat in rough weather. This means using the sails to provide stability and keeping the boat balanced in rough conditions. You should also be prepared to use the outriggers, which are the stabilizers that run along the sides of the boat, to help keep the boat upright in strong winds. By familiarizing yourself with the basics of sailing and understanding how to handle the boat in different conditions, such as waves and strong winds, you can become a confident and skilled catamaran sailor. With practice and experience, you can explore the open water with confidence and enjoy the unique experience of sailing a catamaran. Basic Catamaran Sailing Techniques Sailing a catamaran can be a great way to explore the open water and experience the thrill of the sea. Before you set out, however, its important to understand the basics of sailing, such as wind direction and how to use sails. Once youve got the basics down, you can then start to learn the specifics of how to sail a catamaran. The most important thing to understand is the difference between a monohull and a catamaran. Catamarans have two hulls, which make them more stable than monohulls. This means you will need to learn how to properly balance the boat, as the two hulls can move independently of each other. You should also be aware of the wind and current when youre sailing, as these can affect the boats stability. When youre ready to start sailing, youll need to make sure that the sails are set properly and the boat is balanced correctly. To do this, youll need to be aware of the wind direction and adjust the sails accordingly. You should also make sure that the sails are trimmed properly, as this will help you to get the most out of the wind. In order to properly sail a catamaran, youll also need to understand how to handle the boat in different conditions. This includes handling the boat in waves, strong winds, and other challenging scenarios. To do this, youll need to be aware of the wind direction, the current, and the waves. You should also be aware of how the boat responds to different conditions, and be prepared to make adjustments as necessary. Once youve got the basics of sailing a catamaran down, you can start to explore the open water. So, dont be afraid to get out on the open water and learn the ins and outs of sailing a catamaran. With a bit of practice, youll soon be able to enjoy the thrill of the open water. Safety Precautions for Catamaran Sailing Before sailing a catamaran, it is important to take safety precautions to ensure your trip is safe and enjoyable. The first step in doing so is to make sure you have the right safety gear, such as a life jacket, flares, and a first-aid kit. It is also a good idea to check the weather forecast before departing so you can plan your route accordingly, and to make sure you have the right clothing for the conditions. Additionally, you should always carry a marine radio on board in case of an emergency. Lastly, make sure you inform someone of your intended route and estimated time of return, so they can come to your aid in the event of an emergency. By taking these safety precautions, you can enjoy your catamaran sailing experience to the fullest! Tips for Improving Your Catamaran Sailing Skills Improving your catamaran sailing skills is all about getting comfortable with the boat and understanding the different conditions youll be sailing in. Its important to start slowly and build your skill level gradually, as this will help you become a more confident and competent sailor. Here are some tips to get you started: 1. Learn the basics of sailing. Knowing the basics of sailing is essential before you start to learn how to sail a catamaran. Understand the basics of wind direction, how to use sails, and how the wind affects the boat. This will help you better understand the catamaran and how to maneuver it. 2. Familiarize yourself with the catamaran. Spend time familiarizing yourself with the catamaran and its components. Learn the differences between a monohull and a catamaran, such as the two hulls and how to properly balance the boat. You should also be aware of the boats capabilities and limitations. 3. Practice sailing in different conditions. Its important to practice sailing in different conditions, such as in waves and strong winds. This will help you become more comfortable with the boat and give you the experience to handle a variety of conditions. 4. Learn how to use the sails. Understanding how to use the sails will help you become a more efficient sailor and get the most out of your catamaran. Learn how to adjust the sails for different wind directions and how to use them to your advantage. 5. Understand the safety precautions. Before you start sailing, make sure you understand the safety precautions. This includes understanding the weather conditions and the safety equipment you need to have on board. By following these tips, youll be well on your way to becoming a more confident and competent catamaran sailor. Learning how to sail a catamaran is a great way to explore the world of sailing and open up a world of adventure on the open water. Final Thoughts Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a novice, knowing how to sail a catamaran can be a great way to get out and explore the open waters. With the right knowledge and practice, you can become a confident and competent catamaran sailor. From understanding the basics of sailing, to learning the differences between a monohull and a catamaran, to mastering the techniques of catamaran sailing, this detailed step-by-step guide has all the information you need to become a successful catamaran sailor. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start your catamaran sailing journey today! James Frami At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others. Recent Posts When Was Banana Boat Song Released? (HISTORICAL INSIGHTS) The "Banana Boat Song" was released in 1956 by Harry Belafonte. This calypso-style song, also known as "Day-O," became a huge hit and remains popular to this day for its catchy tune and upbeat... How to Make Banana Boat Smoothie King? (DELICIOUS RECIPE REVEALED) To make a Banana Boat Smoothie King smoothie at home, start by gathering the ingredients: a ripe banana, peanut butter, chocolate protein powder, almond milk, and ice. Blend the banana, a scoop of... My Cruiser Life Magazine Fastest Catamarans for Cruising in 2023 Catamarans appeal to sailors and would-be sailors for a variety of reasons. One of those reasons is the need for speed—cats have a reputation for being faster. There are dozens of brands and tons of great boat designs that capitalize on this, and designers are constantly pushing the bounds and asking, “Really, how fast can a catamaran go?” Performance sailing catamarans may look like your run-of-the-mill Leopard or Lagoon from a distance. But these boats are full of little tricks to boost their speeds—narrow hull designs, retractable daggerboards instead of keels, and extensive use of cutting-edge lightweight materials like carbon fiber. All of this adds up, so expect to pay double, triple, or maybe much more for a truly fast catamaran. And that means there are far fewer boats on the water, and owning one puts you in an exclusive club. Table of Contents Neel trimarans, what is a fast catamaran, how fast can a catamaran go, are fast catamarans the boat you’re looking for, fast catamarans faqs, top brands of fast catamarans. Here’s a list of some of the best-known and trail-blazing fast catamaran makers. These companies are making luxury performance catamarans suited for owners who want to cruise fast. These aren’t barebones race boats built for nothing but speed. Instead, these are comfortable boats that will outperform most others in their class.  Most performance boats will be 45 feet long or more. Small catamarans don’t fall into this category, and most production liveaboard catamarans are built too heavily in order to save money. For more than two decades, Gunboat has been setting the bar on what a performance catamaran can be. They took state-of-the-art technologies from the racing world and applied them to family-friendly cruising catamarans. The company started in the US in 2002. One of the company’s stated missions is to create boats that sail faster than the wind in anything more than 6 knots of breeze. Since 2016, Gunboat has built top-quality boats at their La Grande-Motte, France, facility. However, they are still a boutique builder making only a handful of boats yearly. Their current offerings include the 68, 72, and 80. All boats have narrow hulls, retractable boards, high-performance sail plans, carbon fiber construction, and luxurious living accommodations. The first hull of the Gunboat 68, CONDOR, was launched in 2019 and set out on a trans-Atlantic crossing immediately after its sea trials. The crew wrote a detailed report of the experience and the boat’s performance. CONDOR exceeded 30 knots occasionally, but average speeds were between 14 and 17 knots. Their best 24 hours saw 328 nm (an average speed of 13.7 knots).  The company motto says it all. “Life is too short to sail a slow boat.” Outremer Catamarans is one of the original makers of French performance cats, in business since 1984. According to their website, the company has made over 300 boats since then. A large-scale production boat maker they are not. These are custom-built fast catamarans of the highest quality, made for safety, comfort, and speed. Outremer recently received much attention when popular YouTubers Sailing La Vagabonde sailed aboard an Outremer 45 for several years. Currently, Outremer offers boats ranging from the 45 to the 5X (48 to 60 feet long). The X models (4X and 5X) are even more performance-oriented, with more extensive use of carbon fiber and a more race-inspired sail plan. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Riley Whitelum (@riley.whitelum) Catana is yet another French performance brand of luxury cruising catamaran. Today, Catana Group also makes Bali cruising catamarans, effectively marketing Catanas to the performance set and Bali’s to the cruising and charter set. https://www.catana.com Presently, Catana is only making two models, the OC50 and the 53. Historically, however, Catana has made many beautiful boats. Notably, the 471 is a fast cruising catamaran that is a favorite among long-distance cruisers. On the smaller side, the 431 and even the 401 and 381 are quick and fun sailers that move better than their competition. Catanas are easily recognizable by their daggerboards and narrow hulls with asymmetrical designs. In addition, they use a lightweight composite layup that results in a very stiff boat that weighs less than their competitors. Still, Catanas are not on the same level as an Outremer 5X or Gunboat–these are fiberglass boats that are built better than the competition and made to outperform many other boats.  HH Catamarans is Gunboat’s first real competitor in the high-end performance cat market. They started in 2012 and are part of the Hudson Yacht Group. The boats are designed by Morrelli & Melvin, a highly-regarded multihull design firm, and are built in Xiamen, China, or Cebu, Philippines. HH has boats in their model line from 44 to 88 feet long. The company focuses on providing what owners and sailors want and are looking for, so you’ll see lots of customizability within the lineup. They include features you won’t find from a lot of builders, including lots of planned real estate for solar panels (5kW or more!), hybrid drive systems, and ocean cruising OC (keels) or sport cruising SC (daggerboard) models to pick from. View this post on Instagram A post shared by HH Catamarans (@hh.catamarans) Balance started in South Africa in 2013. They focus on making semi-custom, comfortable performance yachts that are strong and safe and can be easily operated single-handedly or by a couple. They are live-aboard boats that strike a balance between comfort and performance. But, compared to the current offerings from Lagoon or Leopard, it’s clear that Balance cats skew far more toward performance than others do. Models currently range from the 442 to the 750. They’re available with daggerboards or keels and made with extensive carbon fiber and all epoxy-resin composites. According to their website, the current record speed for a Balance 482 while surfing is 28 knots. She’ll cruise all day between 8 and 14 on a reach, though. They describe the 482 as a “trend-setting circumnavigator”—the perfect boat for your sail around the world route . Kinetic Catamarans are designed by Simonis Voogd and built in Knysna, South Africa. Like others on the list, these are semi-custom, luxury, performance cruising cats with an emphasis on speed. They have all-carbon construction, carbon spars, laminated sails, and a forward sailing cockpit deck layout. Since they are truly semi-custom, each boat is spec-ed out to each buyer’s vision. This includes standard or racing rigs, centerboards or daggerboards, and many furnishings, layouts, and outfitting options. Kinetic currently offers 54 and 62-foot versions. What’s better than two hulls? Three, maybe. That is, three might be better if your goal is truly fast sailing. Neel Trimarans is a new French builder attempting to capitalize on this simple fact by merging the best of all worlds—the space and liveability of a cruising catamaran with the performance, sail efficiency, and stability of an offshore-capable tri. The company presently offers models between 43 and 65 feet. They say cruising speeds are reliably over 10 knots, with 15 to 18 knots when the breeze freshens. Compared to cats, these boats’ rigid central hulls allow for stronger rigging and better upwind performance, and the central keel allows better tracking and rudder control. Now you’ve looked at some fast cats, you might wonder what constitutes “fast.” You will be wowed if you’re selling your 30-foot monohull and moving up to a 50-foot cat. But if you’re coming from the world of car and plane travel, sailboats of any ilk are anything but “fast.” The first thing to accept is that all sailboats are slow . This shocks many people who think they’d like to travel and see the world by sailboat. The marketing of these “fast cats” is everywhere, and the idea that the faster boat is safer because you can “beat the weather” is especially pervasive. No sailboat at sea can outrun a front or storm cell moving at 30 or 40 knots.  In truth, the fastest catamaran you can comfortably live aboard and cruise on will average out under 15 knots . In similar conditions, production catamarans might be doing 10 to 12. The monohull speeds of the same length might be 7 or 8 knots, and a bigger monohull with similar living space might be doing 10 or 12. So don’t be lulled or wowed by these vessel’s maximum speed or “surfing” claims—they’re fun numbers to kick around with your dock neighbors, but what really matters is how many miles you can tick off in a day of travel. To get more speed than this, you’ll either push the boat in ways that are not safe or comfortable at sea, or you will have to find bigger, more advanced, and even more expensive vessels. Most boats on this list are luxury liveaboard that is safe to travel the world.  But are they fast? As the old sailor saying goes, “Nothing goes to weather like a 747.” Sailing is still sailing. And sailing is a slow, slow, slow way to see the world.  Traditional monohull sailboats are displacement vessels that are limited by a few rules. As they push the water out of their way, they build up bow and stern waves. Push too much water, and the waves get bigger, pulling the vessel farther into the water. So no matter how you power it, it’s limited to hull speed. Hull speed is a factor of waterline length, width of the hull, and displacement.  Modern designs favor flat bottoms like powerboats, with the idea that they can surf and plane to get more speed. Catamarans take this even further, and with some clever design tricks , it’s possible to get a catamaran well above displacement speeds for extended runs. Of course, a lot depends on the hull type, and other factors are also at play. Catamarans are very sensitive to weight . Their speed comes from being a lightweight boat with the ability to fly across the water, contrary to how a heavy monohull plows through it. The heavier the boat, the lower it sits in the water. Therefore, adding weight to any catamaran will slow it down. To this end, finding a performance-oriented liveaboard catamaran less than 47 feet long is difficult. Less than this, and the narrow hulls simply can’t hold the weight of you and your stuff.  Finally, there’s the consideration of the environment you’re sailing in. The wind is obvious—they sail fastest on a broad reach. And, just like any other type of boat, they are slowest when close-hauled and on a run.  Rough seas are another of the catamaran characteristics to consider in your need for speed. Often the boat is capable of more, but the ride is rough and uncomfortable. So you shorten sail and slow down to find the sweet spot of comfortable sailing speed—enough power to maintain a good speed without pounding your brains out and causing undo fatigue on the crew. And, of course, the rougher the conditions, the slower the boat’s performance as she slows and in the troughs and speeds “downhill.” While they are faster than other vessels, that’s certainly not the only thing catamarans have going for them. Fast is a relative term, and “fast” sailing is still awfully slow. So unless you already love sailing, sailing fast might not have as much appeal as you’d expect. Catamarans are great vessels with a lot of pluses. And these fast modern catamarans are some of the best—luxurious living space aboard comfortable, top-quality vessels.  What are the fastest catamarans? Like those used in recent America’s Cup races, pure racing catamarans use foils to lift their hulls out of the water. Whether performance-oriented or not, regular catamarans for cruising are much slower, averaging between 10 and 15 knots. Still, they generally outperform monohull sailboats of similar lengths in most conditions, especially when sailing downwind. How fast does a 50 foot catamaran sail? There are many designs of catamarans, and they all sail differently. In some conditions, a pure racing catamaran may sail significantly faster than the wind speed. Most cruising catamarans, whether designated as “performance” or not, will max out around 12 to 15 knots. Momentary peak speeds may be significantly higher.  What is the fastest point of sail catamaran? As with all sailboats, the fastest point of sail will be near a beam reach, where the apparent wind is 90 degrees from the boat’s bow. Since cats travel faster over the water, this usually means that the true wind is off the quarter, with a true wind angle of about 120 degrees off the bow. How fast is the Gunboat 68? Gunboat 68, hull number 1 (68-01), was launched in 2019. Immediately after sea trials, CONDOR crossed the Atlantic . The crew reported the vessel’s max speed exceeded 30 knots occasionally, with averages between 14 and 17 knots. Their best day was 328 nm, making the average speed for those 24 hours 13.7 knots (15.8 mph). Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay. Leave a comment Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. America’s Cup: How can a boat go faster than the wind? America’s cup ac 72’s: how can a boat go faster than the wind. Sail With Us to Learn Week-Long Liveaboard Courses Rare RYA Classes & Certifications Catamaran Guru’s real-life practical methods combined with up-to-date sailing theory in lessons aboard recent model catamarans…or your own boat!  Prepare for certifications or take the first step aboard to embark on your dream life of boat ownership or cruising Classes in S Florida and the Bahamas. Estelle Cockcroft Join our community. Get the latest on catamaran news, sailing events, buying and selling tips, community happenings, webinars & seminars, and much more! Leave a Comment Cancel Reply Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Recent Posts Top 10 Reasons to Sell (and Sail) Your Catamaran in Annapolis, MD We have a new home in Annapolis! The office is located in Annapolis, Maryland Top 10 Reasons to Sell (and Sail) Your Catamaran in Texas Our Texas Office is located in the Watergate Marina Center in Clear Lake Shores, Annapolis Boat Show 2024 Meet with our team!    Want to learn more about the Bali and Catana Exploring the Catana OC 50 Catamaran: A Comprehensive Overview The Catana OC 50 Catamaran, the latest addition to the Catana Ocean Class series, For more than 30 years, we have been a part of the catamaran community and created Catamaran Guru™ to encourage and educate all the aspiring sailing out there. We understand the dream of traveling the world by catamaran and created a one-stop-shop to make that dream a reality for you. Stephen & Estelle Testimonials Get Started Yacht Sales Used Yachts Charter Management Boat as Business Programs Seminars & Events 39 Vital Tips, How To Sail a Catamaran!(For Beginners, The Fun and Safe Way!) As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. In this article, I list many of the things that I have found significant about sailing a catamaran. The list is mainly aimed towards sailors transitioning from monohulls, but new sailors without prior experience will benefit from reading this before leaving harbor! So what do you need to know before setting off in a Catamaran? Catamarans Don’t Heel Since catamarans have two hulls, the boat won’t heel over to its side while sailing; this means a ton of things! In part, it means that your ride will be faster, safer, more comfortable, etc. Read this  to understand the difference between monohulls (aka regular sailboats) and catamarans. You will be faster on a Catamaran. Since a catamaran has two hulls, it has less volume of the boat below the surface; this means less drag and higher speeds. Want to know why cats are faster than other boats? Maneuverability inside the Marina will be much more pleasant. Although a catamaran will be more affected by winds due to its immense size, you can maneuver it as you would with a battle tank since it has two engines. That is doing a 360 turn without any movement forward or backward. This is an excellent way to enter and exit a marina. Fuel costs will decrease. Low drag means less energy needed to propel the boat; this is also true when running the engines. Compared to a monohull, the catamaran will draw less fuel. Check out this article  to understand why and how you can save fuel and instead spend your money on fun things! If you get knocked over, you won’t get back up again (but at least you won’t sink!) Catamarans have a terrible reputation for flipping over or capsizing as it is known to the people of the water. There is not much data to support that claim, and if you look at the available data, you would actually see that catamarans, in many ways, are safer than boats with only one hull. Are catamarans safer than other sailboats? Catamarans are wider and, therefore, safer. Is it easier to push something to its side if it has a wide or a small base? Yepp exactly, the cat has a broad base and is, therefore, more stable (the short and easy explanation). There are numerous other factors to consider but a wider base means better stability! Sign up for my mailing list to find out when my article on catamaran stability goes online Catamarans will get you the ladies(or men, or cats, or whatever) There is nothing more accurate on this list than the fact that a catamaran will get you more company, of the sort you prefer, than a monohull. The sailing is smoother; the space is plentiful, it’s basically made for having friends hanging out on the trampolines. Speaking of trampolines, some myths say that they are made to reduce water onboard and enhance safety, but everybody really knows it’s a place for beautiful times with great friends ;)! What are  trampolines  you say? Because of the shallow draft, you can go places where monohulls can’t If you are going to the Bahamas (or any other place where the water isn’t very deep), and believe me, you definitely want, then a shallow draft is almost as good of a friend as a cold beer on a sunny day. A shallow draft means that your boat won’t be sticking very deep into the water, which significantly enhances the number of places you can explore, and it also makes it possible to get very close to the beach. Be prepared to spend your dollars. “A boat is a hole in the water where you throw your money” is what a wise friend of mine once told me in a marina in the Miami River. Little did I know at the time how true that statement was to become. And if you’re on a catamaran… you will have two engines, larger sails, more surface area, more everything, and more everything means that more things will break and more items will have to be paid for BUT! it also means more fun! Finding a place to lift your cat out of the water might be trickier than you thought. Unless you are on a smaller cat, such as the Gemini Legacy 35, you won’t be able to fit in a standard slip, and getting hauled up out of the water might not be possible everywhere. Be prepared to pay a little extra, and make sure you ask before you! In contrary to many beliefs, cats can be sailed single-handed. Another myth is that catamarans are harder to sail than their monohull counterpart; this is simply not true in a general sense. If the boat is set up for shorthanded sailing, it will most certainly be easier to sail than its heeling and leaning sister ship, the monohull. If you are interested in the skills needed to handle a large cruising catamaran I think you should check out my recommended books here. No more sailing close to the wind Since a cat doesn’t have a colossal keel, it tends to move sideways when sailing close to the point of wind. This means more drag, less transfer of movement in the direction of travel, and a less comfortable trip. Usually, a cat needs to sail more of the wind than a monohull, Downwind is your new best friend. But on the other hand, going downwind or running downwind is, together with humans, your dog and red wine, your new best friend. This is where the catamaran will show its true potential. It’s fast, smooth, and can take you around the world! Sailing around the world. Unless you are setting a world record, you will probably take the westward route around the globe. Sailing west means traveling with the prevailing winds and, you guessed it, perfect for a catamaran. Interested in sailing around the world? You have friends? Bring all of them! Maybe not all, but many catamarans can fit many people; 6-10 people is not uncommon. Most of the space is on deck, but since there are two hulls, there are usually 2-4 berths fitting 4-8 people sleeping! That’s a lot of friends, family, cats, or whomever you would want to bring. Are you used to monohulls? Then you need to update your storm tactics! Often, the boat will survive more hardship than the crew; it has happened more than once that a ship will be found only to have lost its team somewhere in the middle of the ocean. A boat is only as good as its captain allows it to become; with poor sailing skills comes danger, and handling a catamaran IS different than handling another type of boat. Ensure you update your skillset, especially those considering rough weather, so that they are relevant when transitioning to a different kind of vessel! Full speed with double engines Exactly how fast you will be able to travel is, of course, dependent upon many factors. But something you can rely on is that more power equals higher speeds; in most catamarans, they employ two engines! If you want to see a table of examples comparing sailing with one engine and two engines,  check this out. Hate swinging around on anchor? You better up your bridle-game A well-balanced bridle will make the cat stay stable towards the wind; a poorly balanced bridle will tend to do a pendulum motion where the waves might push it one way only for the wind to push it back. Want to better understand  how a bridle work and how to make one? Don’t stop before the beach; go all the way upon it. Sailing in the Caribbean, we could often find ourselves wanting to explore a deserted island. We could either throw in the dingy or swim to shore; with a catamaran, you have a third option: “beach” it. Beaching a catamaran means taking it all the way up to the shoreline so you can step off onto a beautiful beach without even getting your toes wet! Check this  out to understand what beaching a catamaran is like. The cat is enormous; why not live on it! A monohull’s size is usually what takes the fun and comfort out of the vacation, but with more space and your own berth/room, the ability to stay comfortably for more extended periods increases. You might even have a hard time to get people of your boat 😉 How to sail faster upwind than a longer monohull Yes, it is usually true that a mono can go closer to the wind than your average cat; this means a shorter distance from point A to point B if traveling directly towards the wind. But, and its a big but (one T) catamarans on average are faster, that means even though they might have to travel a longer distance, they will usually show up at the destination faster than its mono counterpart. Especially if we are talking longer distances, let’s say around the world or Atlantic crossings, then there is no discussion over which is the fastest. Check this list of catamaran speeds to learn more . No more merry-go-round while at anchor One of the things I hated the most when living and sailing on a monohull was getting seasick when not even sailing. The wind pushing you one way and the waves the other makes for an incredibly potent mix of sea-sickness. On a cat, that’s not really an issue; yes, it will swing around a little, it might even swing a little extra since it catches a lot of wind, but it is not going to roll! Which is a huge deal! How to become a better sailor Everybody says that to become a good sailor, you must get out there earn your experience, but without the correct feedback and conclusions, you might be at risk of sub optimizing your skillset. This means that unless you bring someone very experienced, you might create habits that only work under the circumstances you have practiced, that is, calm weather close to shore. What you need is someone to tell you, “that works today, but it will get you into trouble in X and Y situations,” those tips are vital! Get the opinion of someone you trust, whether it’s online or an actual person tagging along! The American sailing association has a pretty cool book about handling large catamarans, check it out here. Sailing single-handed Catamarans, when set up correctly, can be sailed single-handed or shorthanded. Some of the changes you’ll have to make include; Get an autopilot Make sure your lines go all the way to the cockpit, so you don’t have to leave your GPS, radar, etc. Remove things that are obstructing your view; there are only two eyes on board! Ensure you have enough physical power to handle the winches, sail, etc., if you don’t? Hit the gym; if that doesn’t work, buy electric winches. Practice sailing single-handed(but have a passive crew tag along for safety) and figure out what else you need. More info on how to sail single-handed Anchoring your cat at sea One way to do this is to use a sea anchor, basically a parachute in the water that breaks your movements.  more on sea anchors here The sea depth in the middle of an ocean can be thousands of meters, so bringing that much anchor chain doesn’t really work. What you would do is drift under control, that is, situating the boat in a comfortable position, and that doesn’t make you drift too much in the wrong direction. Picking up a mooring ball This is a common question, but I’m not sure why it intimidates people as much as it does. It is probably the easiest way to anchor of them all. Basically, what you want to do is; Prepare your bridle Head into the wind slowly, approach the ball on the same side of the centerline as your friend, who will later pick it up. Take into consideration the drift occurring by the wind and current. Use a boathook, stick, or whatever to pick up the line from the mooring ball and attach it to the center of your bridle. Put the boat in reverse, give it a little throttle, and tension the lines so that you can trust your anchoring Voila, you’ve picked up your first mooring ball! How to make your useless friend useful onboard Turn that useless friend into and a vital asset! The best way to prepare for troublesome situations is to think through what problems may happen and what you want to do when it happens. What you do is you bring that diamond in the rough that is your friend onboard, you discuss a few situations, you tell her what you want her to do and when. Then you practice, not full-on, but you will show your friend how things are done; let’s say you want help with anchoring. Do a walkthrough of the process where you let your, now a little bit shinier diamond, handle the ropes and respond to commands. Offer honest and concrete feedback and let them succeed in the task. Once you feel comfortable with your friend’s actions, you have accomplished two things, you have taught your friend a new skill, and you have acquired a crewmember! Glorious! Bring your real best friend, the dog (or cat, for you weirdos 😉 ) Heeling is not only tough on us humans! On a cat (the boat), a cat(the animal) can move around more safely, and there is a smaller chance of it falling off. Many chose to keep the pet inside the boat, but I really do believe that your pets should also be able to enjoy the beautiful sailing and weather! Prepare to see nothing. I don’t mean beautiful islands and tropical beaches; you’ll see plenty of that! I mean, seeing where you are going, a cat has a lot of stuff in front of you(such as that glorious interior space), so if you’re used to your good old monohull, you might find it difficult at first to get at a good view of where you’re going. Especially when docking or in a marina. Catamaran Sailing Techniques: Everything you need to know – Yachting World The wind will give you a hard time. A catamaran is basically a big box with floating sleds; boxes are not famous for aerodynamics. This box-shaped floater will catch a lot of wind and will make slow speed movements, such as docking, a little bit trickier. To the rescue comes double engines with separate controls making it possible to do 360 turns on the spot and super small unballasted keels called centerboards. Spring of the dock will be your new way of life. Higher on the list, we looked at the box-shaped floating thing that is a catamaran and how much the wind affects it. This is also true when exiting a dock; all that force will make it impossible to head out if the wind blows towards the dock. Spring off the dock to the rescue! This method uses simple physics of leverage to make your stern move away from the dock even though the wind and waves are pushing you back in. Sign up to my  mailing list  for information on when that article is published! Stop turning the wheel and start using your throttles. The downside of a shallow draft is that it won’t have much that stops you from moving sideways with the wind; the upside of having a catamaran is that you have two engines! When moving at slow speeds, let’s say docking, you dont have much “grip” on the water and not much water passing around the rudders. This makes handling a catamaran in the same way as a monohull very difficult. Instead, the preferred method is to put the rudder at center position and turn by offsetting the throttle; higher throttle on your right engine will make you go left and vice versa. This allows for 360 spins and precis handling in tight spaces! Pretty neat, I would say. Get used to that hellish banging noise! Bridge deck clearance is a real thing on a catamaran, and if you’re on a smaller sized or just poorly built, you’ll get more banging than your teenaged self ever wished for(pun intended)! So bridge deck clearance is the distance between the water and the lowest part of the boat between the hulls. This is the part where the water will pass between the hulls, and under some circumstances, let’s say big enough waves, water will crash and hit the underside—making not only a lot of noise but also vibrations throughout the boat. Bring all that crap that you thought you would have to leave on land. “sailing is living the simple life and bringing only what you need,” someone said to me once; screw that! 🙂 On a cat, there is so much space that you’ll be able to bring almost anything that you want and need. People bring everything from scuba gear(including a system to fill up the oxygen tanks) to washing machines! Even though I consider myself to be a simple man when it comes to stuff (i live in a van, as some of you know 😉 ) I can totally understand the beauty of bringing a lot of creature comfort on board. Shallow draft, yes, but how deep is the water, visual checks. Before sailing the Bahamas, I would hear of stories almost every day of boats that went aground and either got stuck or wrecked their ships. I was terrified but once underway and a couple of months in, I couldn’t really understand how it could happen. So I started looking into the information about different accidents that I could find, and something struck me, common sense isn’t that common… I realized that many sailors trusted their GPS or maps more than they trust their own eyes. I could easily understand that the people who went aground were the ones that did not do visual checks when entering or moving through a shallow section. When storms roll in, the seafloor, especially if made of sand, shifts, and depths, is rarely accurate on a map, and if your sailing with only a few feet to spare, you better keep an eye out! If monohulls give you feedback like your mom at family dinner, then a catamaran is your dead budgie. Maybe that title is a bit of a stretch and only applies to my family; if so, sorry about that, let’s carry on! So when the wind hits the sails on a monohull, it leans to the side, everybody gets seasick, and you want to go home, that is not all bad! That same feeling also gives the captain a sensation of how much force is acted upon the sails, something vital if you want to stay afloat. The issue with a catamaran is that it does not offer feedback to the helm in the same manner; there is nothing dangerous about it; it is just different. The problem occurs when you expect feedback in the shape of leaning before you start reefing. If you wait for that, you’ll soon find yourself in trouble!  The easiest and safest way is to use a “wind speed rule of thumb,” basically a standard operating procedure for  putting the reefs in based on apparent wind. Once the wind speed hits X m/s, you put your first reef in; when the speed hits Y m/s, you put the next reef in, and so on. See a squall coming? Reef early! A gust of wind? Head down, not up! I know, I know, I compare monohulls and cats all the time… and yes, here’s one more comparison! Some of you single-hull-people out there might be tempted to head upwind if there’s a gust hitting the sails, I would rethink that strategy and recommend you train your reactions to do the opposite!  Heading upwind(on a cat) during a gust will increase the risk of capsizing (flipping over is extremely rare, but if you’re ever going to pull it off, here’s your chance!). Gybe like Barry White would I’m not sure we see the same things here, but what I’m trying to say is that you want to take it nice and smooth on the transition from one side to the other. Tighten in the sheet, pull the mainsail to the center and slowly pass from one side to the other; this will decrease the wear and tear and reduce the risk of injuries from the beam swinging like a  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! Leave a Reply Cancel reply Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. Recent Posts Must-Have Boat Gear for Catamaran Sailors! Sailing is probably the most gear-intensive activity I've ever done; there are so many decisions to be made about what gear to buy now, for tomorrow, and what to definitely never buy. The gear on... 6 Best Trailerable Trimarans For Bluewater and Coastal Sailing Having a boat costs a lot of money, even when you are not using it, marina fees, etc. And once it is in the water most sailors never go very far from their "home marina" and sailing will be somewhat... 232 IMAGES How Fast Do Catamarans Sail? Average Sailing Speed of a Catamaran How Fast Do Catamarans Sail? Average Sailing Speed of a Catamaran How Fast Do Catamarans Sail? Average Sailing Speed of a Catamaran How Fast Do Catamarans Sail? Average Sailing Speed of a Catamaran Fastest family catamaran across the Atlantic! 3,000 miles in 11 days How Fast Can a Sailboat Go? VIDEO Twin 450R’s on mystic catamaran go fast boat Is 100 nautical miles in 2 days too slow? Where do we go from here, Glassy water Sailing HOW TO BE SELF-SUFFICIENT WITH YOUR CATAMARAN ? (Nautitech 46 Open) Here we go Again Who Flips Over⎪Sailings Best Days on the water The Top 10 Performance Catamarans by their sailing ratios COMMENTS How Fast Do Catamarans Go? Daniel Wade. ‍ Catamarans are known for their speed, and some vessels are fast enough to break world sailing speed records. Catamarans can go between 15 and 30 knots, with the fastest achieving speeds well in excess of 60 knots. Sailing catamarans are sometimes twice as fast as monohulls and cut through the water with greater efficiency. How Fast Do Catamarans Go? 5 Examples (With Pictures) Sailing catamarans typically average about 10 knots. Pontoon boats average about 20 mph. A powerboat cruiser can average anywhere between 30 and 50 mph. Cigarette boats can even reach close to 90 mph in the proper conditions. Sailboats average between 6 and 12 mph depending on wind conditions. The 8 Fastest Cruising Catamarans (With Speedchart) Still, cruising catamarans can be great racing boats, but just how fast can they go? Some of the fastest cruising catamarans include the Gunboat 68 (35 knots), Outremer 45 (25 knots), ORC50 (25 knots), FastCat 435 (20 knots), TS 42 (35 knots), and Lagoon 440 (20 knots). Yet, there are many more cats that can reach 35 knots safely. How Fast Do Catamarans Sail? Average Sailing Speed of a Catamaran Sailing catamarans typically average about 10 knots while pontoon boats average about 16 knots. As for powerboats, they can average anywhere between 30 and 50 mph. Most average sailboats are designed with monohulls and they average from 6 to 9 knots depending on wind conditions. Cruising Catamaran Speed! With Examples and Explanation So, how fast are cruising catamarans? Sailing cruising catamarans can travel at an average of 9-15 knots and max out around 35 kts. Power Cruising catamarans have a maximum speed of 70 knots but averages around 20-25 kts. How fast a catamaran can go also depends on the load it is carrying, its structural design, and its engine power. How Fast Can a Sail Catamaran Go? Factors Affecting Catamaran Speed: There are several factors that determine how fast a sail catamaran can go. Let's take a closer look at them: 1. Hull Design: The design of the hull plays a significant role in determining the speed of a catamaran. Catamarans typically have two parallel hulls connected by a deck structure, which reduces drag ... How Fast Does a Catamaran Go? (The Truth Unveiled) Short Answer. The speed of a catamaran depends on the type and size of the boat, as well as the weather and water conditions. Generally, a catamaran can travel at speeds of between 6-8 knots (7-9 mph) when under power, and as much as 20 knots (23 mph) under sail. A Complete Catamaran Guide How fast can catamarans go? The speed a catamaran can go is entirely dependent upon the hull design, weight of the vessel, the strength of propulsion (be it wind or powered) and so on. The general rule is that in terms of sailing cats vs monohull sailboats, a cat of equal length can typically go faster than a sailboat. How Fast Can a Catamaran Go Catamarans can be much faster than monohulls. This comes as a result of two hulls that are narrower than just one and allow the boat to cut through the waves by reducing drag and causing planing. Planing is the lifting of a boat over the water, a process that makes them go much faster. Normally, a catamaran's top speed is between 15 and 30 ... Sailing Catamaran Speed Sailing catamarans come in all different shapes and sizes. Some are optimized for living space and comfort, while others are designed with fast cruising speeds being the sole goal of the boat. The Gunboat 68, one of the fastest cruising sailboats currently made, can exceed 30 knots. Sail GP: how do supercharged racing yachts go so fast? An engineer explains An F50 catamaran preparing for the Sail GP series recently even broke this barrier, reaching an incredible speed of 50.22 knots (57.8mph) purely powered by the wind. This was achieved in a wind of ... How fast are catamarans A sport cruising catamaran can reach 30 knots. A racing catamaran is somewhat faster and can sail at 45 knots. The power cruising catamaran is probably the fastest vessel and can travel at 70 knots. One of the main features that make catamarans so fast is the integration of assisting foils that lift the boat off the water. Catamaran Hull Speed Calculator For Beginners (Table and Free This is the formula for Maximum Hull Speed on a displacement boat: Max hull speed= √((Length on Water Line x g) /(2 x pi)) x 3600/1852. Now we need to add the increased efficiency (loss of drag) of a semi-displacement hull, usually, this is somewhere between a 10-30% increase. Semi Displacement hull speed = Maximum hull speed * 1.3. Catamaran Sailing A catamaran is a sailboat with two hulls. These two hulls are connected by a bridge deck. Many people will be familiar with Hobie cats, small catamarans that are popular for sailing on lakes and in calmer waters. Cruising catamarans are based on this same principle but have large hulls that can fit many cabins inside, and house large structures ... Performance Cruising Cats Set New Standards in Sailing Speed The goal is speed, performance and offshore comfort, both in the strong stuff and, more importantly, in whispering airs that park-up monohulls. "A good performance catamaran can sail 1.2 to 1.5 times faster than windspeed in some conditions, meaning less time motoring and more time sailing," says Greg Young, designer of the TAG 60. What Are The Fastest Sailboats? (Complete List) The V.O 60, X-Yachts X4.0, and Beneteau Oceanis 30.1 are great examples of fast monohull boats. For multihull boats, Rapido 60 (Trimaran), Dragonfly 40 (Trimaran), and ICE Cat 61 (Catamaran) are some of the fastest in that category. The list can go on when you are talking about specialized performance boats, foiling boats, and even windsurfers. How SailGP's foiling F50 catamarans sail so much faster ... How SailGP's foiling F50 catamarans sail so much faster than the wind. Jonathan Turner. January 8, 2023. Arguably the most technologically advanced sailboats on the planet right now, the one-design SailGP F50 foiling catamarans are capable of breathtaking speeds - at times, reaching four times the velocity of the wind that drives them. How Fast Can a Catamaran Sail? Most catamarans can sail at speeds between 15 and 30 knots. Some racing catamarans can reach speeds of up to 30 knots. Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule and some catamarans can sail faster or slower depending on the conditions. However, the average cruising speed for a catamaran is around 12 knots. How fast do sailing catamarans motor? The two are very different and you can't make a power cat shape work well when sailing in lighter winds and upwind and you can't make a sailing shape work well at high speeds under power. Just chill out and go at 7 knots. Even though our boat has hit 19.9 knots, we average about 7.5 to 8.5 most of the time. You don't go that fast. How To Sail A Catamaran? (A Detailed Step-By-Step Guide) Short Answer. Sailing a catamaran is relatively straightforward. To get started, adjust the sails and rudder to the desired angles. Next, begin to move forward using the power of the wind and the force of the sails. While underway, make sure to constantly adjust the sails and rudder to maintain the desired course. Fastest Catamarans for Cruising in 2023 The crew wrote a detailed report of the experience and the boat's performance. CONDOR exceeded 30 knots occasionally, but average speeds were between 14 and 17 knots. Their best 24 hours saw 328 nm (an average speed of 13.7 knots). The company motto says it all. "Life is too short to sail a slow boat.". America's Cup: How can a boat go faster than the wind? We have fielded many questions about how these catamarans can sail so fast. One of the best explanations of what happens when these catamarans get going, is the one by Grant from NauticEd. He explains how these AC72 not only goes faster than the true wind, but actually go faster than the apparent wind. He points out that the limitation on boat ... 39 Vital Tips, How To Sail a Catamaran! (For Beginners, The Fun and Sailing single-handed. Catamarans, when set up correctly, can be sailed single-handed or shorthanded. Some of the changes you'll have to make include; Get an autopilot; Make sure your lines go all the way to the cockpit, so you don't have to leave your GPS, radar, etc. Remove things that are obstructing your view; there are only two eyes on ... catamaran gulet motorboat powerboat riverboat sailboat trimaran yacht