catamaran sailing for beginners

• First time on a catamaran: what you need to know

During your captain training, you'll have learnt how to manoeuvre a monohull sailboat . But what about when you have the opportunity to sail a catamaran?  Find out everything you need to know, including differences from monohulls, important factors to consider, pros and cons, and recommended destinations and catamaran models. If you're new to catamaran sailing, this is the perfect guide for you.

5 reasons to rent a catamaran

What are the main reasons why someone decides to sail on a catamaran? Here are the top benefits of choosing this type of boat.

1. Stability

The double hulls of a catamaran provide exceptional initial stability, allowing it to  remain afloat and stable in rough waters and wind. If you're looking for a smooth and peaceful sailing experience, especially with small children or seasickness-prone individuals, a catamaran is a great option. It's perfect for taking along your grandma or a nervous friend who's never been on a boat before.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Getting seasick is not only a major worry for novice sailors, but also holidaymakers on a boat trip. But it even can affect experienced sailors from time to time. Those with darker humour say it has two phases — in the first phase you become so sick you're afraid you're dying, and in the second, you're afraid you're not going to. The important thing, though, is to understand why it happens and try to prevent it. Although you'll significantly reduce suffering from seasickness on a catamaran, what works best if it does occur? Find out in our guide —  How to cope with seasickness .

A catamaran offers more space than any other boat of similar length. With spacious saloons , plenty of seating and lounging areas , and ample sunbathing spots (such as the netting known as the  trampoline ), you'll never feel cramped. The cabins are roomy and the bathrooms are as big as those in many apartments. People who dislike tight spaces or value their privacy will find a catamaran ideal. On larger models (50+ feet), you'll have so much space, you may have trouble finding each other. Despite its comparable length, a catamaran always feels larger than its monohull counterpart. If you're used to a 50-foot sailboat, try a 45-foot catamaran and you'll still feel like you have more space.

3. Amenities comparable to a hotel room

Not only are the cabins spacious, but they are also comfortable and cosy. They usually come equipped with high-quality bedding, pillows, shelves, reading lamps, and more, making them feel like a proper room. That's why we wrote an article highlighting 9 reasons why a sailing holiday is better than staying at a hotel and it's doubly true with a catamaran.

4. Added extras

Catamarans often come equipped with the latest technology and gadgets. These include solar panels, generator, a seawater desalinator, a modern plotter with GPS, and autopilot . These will make you more self-sufficient at sea without needing the facilities of a marina as often.

5. Shallow draft

The reason why catamarans are so popular with sailors, especially in exotic countries , is the very shallow draft — 0.9 to 1.5 metres, depending on the length of the vessel, which means skippers don't have to concern themselves so much about hitting the seabed. While caution and monitoring charts are still necessary, it provides greater freedom in choosing anchorage spots, allowing you to sail almost right up to the beach and anchor to enjoy the peace and tranquillity.

Only small fishing boats can get as close to the shore as catamarans.

Check out articles about other boats and boating gear

Catamaran vs. sailboat: the main differences.

Sailors have differing preferences, with some sticking to single-hulled boats and others preferring catamarans. In fact, which is best has been a hot topic since sailing began. This makes understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each hull design essential so you can make your own choice.

1. Rental price

One major drawback of catamarans is their higher cost on the charter market. Single-hull sailboats can be rented for 1,000-2,500 euros per week, while a well-maintained catamaran typically starts at 3,000 euros per week. However, this may not be the case for all models.

YACHTING.COM TIP: If you want to save money on your catamaran charter, we recommend booking it in advance. Check out our  8 reasons why Early Bird deals are the best way to rent a boat .

2. Capacity

The higher cost of catamaran charters is offset by the extra space, comfort, and capacity — it can often hold up to 12 guests comfortably. This results in a per-person cost comparable to sailboats and cheaper than coastal hotels, making them popular for island cruising and party boats. However, for a safe and responsible party experience, we recommend checking out our guide — How to enjoy a party on a boat: 10 tips to keep your crew and your boat safe .

YACHTING.COM TIP: Never exceed the maximum capacity of the boat. And remember that even small children count as crew members.

A large crew can comfortably sail on a catamaran

3. Port charges and marina fees

Keep in mind that having two hulls means a wider boat, leading to higher docking fees . This increased width can take up more space than two smaller sailboats. However, the cost per person can be offset by the fact that more people can be accommodated. 

4. Speed vs. consumption

Catamarans typically feature two high-powered engines , making them faster than similar-sized sailboats. Even without the power of the wind, you can be flying across the waters and with a better fuel efficiency than motor boats.

Catamarans typically have two basic sails: the mainsail and the foresail and operating them follow similar principles as on single-hulled sailboats. Self-tacking jibs can also be used, reducing the work required to trim and manoeuvre the sails. 

For those looking to enhance their sailing experience, a gennaker can often be rented with the catamaran, providing added benefits, especially in light wind conditions. Take a look at our 5 reasons to rent a gennaker .

6. Flybridge

This elevated deck is a common feature on catamarans. Here you'll find the helm station and sometimes additional seating or lounging space. It is a valuable addition that provides extra living space on the boat.

The catamaran's second deck provides another spot to sit and enjoy views of the ocean

Who is the catamaran suitable for?

Catamarans are the preferred choice for a group of friends wanting a laid-back holiday on the water but are also popular for corporate team-building events  and specialised stays like yoga. As their spacious deck provides a safe play area for children , they are also ideal for multi-family vacations.

YACHTING.COM TIP:  If you are sailing with small children, safety is paramount. So, check out our guidelines for safe boating with kids , our article on how to survive on a boat with kids , the Skipper mom logbook: sailing with a baby and always try to stick to the 4 essential tips for smooth sailing with kids . If you don't have kids or don't want to bring them along, why not take your four-legged friend? Catamarans offer ample space for dogs to run around, and following these 7 tips can help make your pet a true sea dog.

On the other hand, we wouldn't suggest a catamaran to sporty sailors to chase the wind in, as the catamarans for charter aren't intended for racing or regattas. Due to their design, they have limited upwind capabilities (sailing boats can sail up to 30° wind angle, while charter catamarans can only handle up to 50° to 60° wind angle), making them unsuitable for competitive sailing.

YACHTING.COM TIP: If you have doubts about your ability to safely operate the boat, consider hiring a skipper. We can arrange a skipper for you who is knowledgeable about the area and can take care of the navigation for you or teach you any sailing skills you may be lacking. Remember when planning that the skipper will occupy one cabin or berth in the saloon. 

Specifics of sailing on a catamaran

The principles of sailing a catamaran are similar to those of a monohull sailboat, but there are some differences to keep in mind. These may have already been covered in your captain's training course.

Travelling on the engine

A catamaran has two motors , each of which can be controlled separately using its own throttle control. Want to turn on the spot? That's no problem at all with a catamaran — simply add throttle with one motor and reverse with the other. Once you get the hang of this trick, you'll no longer need a bow thruster, although catamarans are sometimes equipped with one. This makes docking your catamaran a breeze compared to single-hulled sailboats.

Travelling on the sails

Sailing varies mainly in what courses you can sail and how strong the winds are. Most charter catamarans perform best on courses at 50 to 60 degrees to the wind. This is a greater angle compared to sailboats. So be prepared to have to adjust your planned route.

If you sail a sailboat too hard, the boat itself will tell you that you've over-steered by heeling. A catamaran won't do that, so you have to be very attentive to when to reef the sails. Usually, you will put in the first reef at a wind speed of 18 to 20 knots and the second reef at 23 to 25 knots.

Best destinations for catamaran sailing

In addition to the more traditional locations of Croatia , Greece , Italy ,  Spain and Turkey , we rent catamarans all over the world. In these destinations, you appreciate plenty of space , comfortable access to the water via steps, stability on the waves and amenities such as a barbecue and air conditioning .

However, catamarans are perfectly suited for more exotic destinations . In remote locations, the low draft comes in particularly handy as the seafloor is often poorly charted and the beaches are stunning. The large water and diesel tanks, along with an electricity generator, a desalinator to produce fresh water from seawater, and solar panels are especially useful in exotic locations where the yachting infrastructure is less developed. These features help sailors to be self-sufficient and avoid the need to find a dock every few days.

Popular destinations for catamaran sailing include the beautiful Seychelles , Thailand , French Polynesia and the Caribbean (Grenada, St. Lucia, Martinique, Antigua, St. Martin, Cuba , British Virgin Islands, Bahamas, and Belize).

YACHTING.COM TIP: Don't be apprehensive about sailing to more tropical destinations! Check out our  guide to exotic sailing holidays . If you are headed to these warmer climes,  you will need to find out when the rainy season or the  hurricane season  starts.

Views in the Caribbean are picture perfect

The most popular catamarans

Popular charter catamaran brands include Lagoon , Bali , Fountaine Pajot , Nautitech , and Leopard . These are the models that have received positive feedback from our clients for years and that we confidently recommend.

The Lagoon 380 offers a true sailing experience, or the larger Lagoon 46 , where you may end up spending the whole morning lounging in its spacious cabin.

The Bali cat space  provides amazing seating up at the helm.

The Fountaine Pajot Elba 45 where you'll enjoy relaxing at the bow on the seating or the trampoline.

The Nautitech 46 with its huge saloon.

The Leopard 45 with its gorgeous bright interior, or the Leopard 50  that's so luxurious, you'll feel like a king.

YACHTING.COM TIP: For the discerning sailor, the Lagoon 620 and Dream 60 large catamarans are also worth mentioning. However, it's important to note that most captain's licenses are not valid for these giants and you'll need to hire a professional skipper.

Special types of catamarans

Catamarans have been around for quite some time, leading shipyards to continuously innovate and create new models with unique features and characteristics. So, what are some of them?

Power catamaran

The popularity of power catamarans has been increasing lately due to the fact that they provide the stability and spaciousness of a catamaran without the need to handle sails.

Do you believe that more is always better? Not satisfied with just two hulls? Then we have a unique chance for you to rent a trimaran , a three-hulled catamaran that offers an unparalleled sailing experience. Trimarans are still rare, so you're sure to attract attention wherever you go.

All catamarans in our offer:

Not sure if you want a catamaran or a sailboat no problem, we'll be happy to assist you in finding the perfect vessel. just let us know..

Denisa Nguyenová

Faq sailing on a catamaran.

What are the main differences between a sailboat and a catamaran?

• Number of hulls = stability
• More space = higher passenger capacity
• Higher charter and port charges
• Speed per engine

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.

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The Beginner’s Guide to Catamaran Sailing: Unlocking the Thrills of a Two-Hulled Adventure 2023

• May 20, 2023

Welcome aboard, sailing enthusiasts! If you’re seeking an exhilarating and unique sailing experience, look no further than catamaran sailing. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll take you on a journey to uncover the joys of catamaran sailing and equip you with essential knowledge to set sail confidently. Let’s dive into the world of catamaran sailing and discover the wonders that await!

Table of Contents

Understanding catamarans.

Catamarans, known for their twin hulls and spacious decks, provide an exceptional sailing experience. Their stability, speed, and comfort make them popular choices for both recreational and competitive sailors. Unlike monohulls, catamarans offer increased living space, reduced heeling, and excellent maneuverability. Familiarize yourself with the anatomy of a catamaran, from the hulls to the rigging, to gain a deeper understanding of this remarkable vessel.

Essential Equipment for Catamaran Sailing

Before setting sail, it’s important to have the right equipment on board. Ensure you have a well-fitted life jacket, a reliable marine VHF radio, navigation tools like charts and compasses, and a first aid kit. Additionally, pack essentials such as sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and appropriate clothing for protection against the elements. Safety should always be your top priority, so don’t forget to check the weather conditions before embarking on your adventure.

Mastering Basic Catamaran Sailing Techniques

While catamarans are known for their stability, mastering basic sailing techniques is crucial. Start by learning how to hoist and trim the sails, understanding the role of the rudders, and practicing basic maneuvers such as tacking and gybing. As you gain confidence, you can progress to more advanced techniques like reefing, sailing upwind, and even trapezing.

Navigating Catamarans: Wind, Currents, and Tides

Understanding the interaction between wind, currents, and tides is essential for safe and efficient catamaran sailing. Learn to read wind patterns, anticipate gusts, and adjust your sails accordingly. Familiarize yourself with tidal charts and understand how currents can affect your course. By mastering these navigation skills, you’ll be able to plan exciting voyages and optimize your sailing experience.

Catamaran Maintenance and Care

To keep your catamaran in top condition, regular maintenance is crucial. Learn how to inspect the rigging, check for wear and tear, and perform routine maintenance tasks. Cleaning and protecting your catamaran from the elements will help prolong its lifespan. Remember to store it properly during offseasons or when not in use. A well-maintained catamaran ensures both your safety and enjoyment on the water.

Joining a Catamaran Sailing Community

Connect with fellow catamaran enthusiasts by joining local sailing clubs or online communities. These communities offer a wealth of knowledge, tips, and shared experiences that can enhance your sailing journey. Participate in races, regattas, or organized cruising events to expand your skills and meet like-minded sailors. Sharing your own experiences and insights can inspire others and foster a supportive community of catamaran enthusiasts.

Embarking on the adventure of catamaran sailing opens up a world of excitement and discovery. From the initial understanding of catamaran anatomy to mastering sailing techniques, and from navigating wind and tides to maintaining your vessel, this beginner’s guide has equipped you with the essential knowledge to start your catamaran sailing journey. So, hoist your sails, catch the wind, and experience the thrill of gliding across the water on two hulls – catamaran sailing awaits!

Remember, safety, respect for the environment, and continuous learning are the keys to becoming a skilled catamaran sailor. So, set sail, explore new horizons, and create lifelong memories as you immerse yourself in the captivating world of catamaran sailing!

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Catamaran sailing : Catamaran sailing for beginners - our top 11 tips

Nils Günter

 ·  02.06.2022

Catamaran or monohull, that is the question here ... When it comes to space and comfort on board, the cruising catamarans are second to none. In this film we give you tips on handling multihulls, from harbour manoeuvres to anchoring and sailing with a cat. Not only, but also suitable for beginners who might want to charter a double hull. You can now find our top 11 tips in the film on YACHT tv!

Lagoon 40 off Mallorca

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12 Best Catamaran Sailboats

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

The appeal of the catamaran sailboats in terms of speed , stability, and the ability to embark on long-range cruising has made them hugely popular with today's sailors. But what are the best catamaran sailboats?

Even though catamaran sailboats have become increasingly popular in the last few years, they have a truly rich legacy as one of the most sought after vessels for bluewater cruising.

Thanks to their incredibly wide beams and bigger daft, catamarans have become remarkably favorable for sailors looking to go for long-distance voyages, overnight cruising, and day sailing.

And if space is paramount for you when out there on the water, a catamaran sailboat is the only way to go as they offer extraordinary space to allow you to spend more time on the water with friends and family.

But even with all these amazing features, you're probably still wondering; what are the best catamaran sailboats?

Like their monohull counterparts, choosing the best catamaran sailboat can be quite overwhelming since there are lots of them out there. They come in a wide variety of designs and sizes ranging from small catamarans to huge ones.

The best catamaran sailboats can easily clock 250-mile voyages, offer incredible performance, and have layouts that can be easily optimized for individuals, charter markets, and great accommodation. In essence, the best catamaran sailboats offer respectable performance and offer good load-carrying ability.

That being said, here are some of the best catamaran sailboats that you can get your hands on.

Table of contents

Best Catamarans

{{boat-info="/boats/manta-42"}}

Even though many multihulls are no longer built in the United States these days, the Manta 42 is a true American-built catamaran that brings good living and good value into one package. Designed cleverly for easy handling, this American built catamaran is a great choice for a liveaboard cruiser for sailors looking to go for long-distance voyages. Thanks to its trademark high bows and an enormously curved incorporated forward crossbeam, this catamaran is easily recognizable even from a distance.

It is designed with a uniquely fixed crossbeam, which is very different from conventional aluminum cross beams that support the tension of the forestay. This fixed crossbeam allows for a little bit of movement thereby helping in absorbing enormous twisting forces of the bows. As such, you have to keep in mind that there may be resultant stress crack particularly in the bow area of the vessel.

All in all, the Manta 42 is a superb offshore cruising catamaran that offers a good sail-area-to-displacement ratio as well as plenty of space and accommodation. The cockpit area is refined, luxurious, and is designed with additional stainless pushpit contraptions to help in holding objects such as wind vanes, dinghies, and solar panels. The boat's quality in terms of performance and stability is the benchmark of what a catamaran should be.

Fountaine Pajot Elba 45

{{boat-info="/boats/fountaine-pajot-elba-45"}}

Recently named the "Boat of the Year" for 2019 by Cruising World Magazine and Sail Magazine, the Elba 45 is the latest model in the incredible line of Fountaine Pajot catamarans. This boat was designed to replace the outgoing Helia 44 and stands to be one of the most popular catamarans with Fountain Pajot having sold over 100 Elba 45 hulls long before even the first one emerged from production.

This French-built cat brings to the fore a well-thought-out, safe, and dependable features with 10% less drag, efficient motoring, top-notch performance, and high speeds. It's also designed with fixed stub keels and slightly aft-raked bows, which are all essential in enhancing windward performance; something that most catamarans struggle with.

To improve on safety, the keels of this amazing catamaran sailboat are glued into a particularly designed recess in the hulls. This is to ensure that there are no keel bolts that can rip out and put the boat in danger if the boat gets grounded or in the event of a collision. The rig is also ICW friendly and is a true representation of a standard catamaran setup.

This is, without a doubt, a modern-looking cruising catamaran that has a low-profile lounging space on its deck, high topsides and bows as well as a more pronounced reverse sheer that's essential in minimizing the bulk of the windows while creating additional and useful volume below. This is a true catamaran that occupies a sweet spot for those looking to sail along the bay or for those adventurous sailors looking to set sail for more ambitious offshore cruising plans.

{{boat-info="/boats/leopard-48"}}

With its fine design, straightforward systems, and easy handling, the Leopard 48 has everything it needs to be ranked among the distinguished category of the best catamaran sailboats. This is an excellent multihull that is structured with advanced materials, designs, and innovations that are meant to be fun, spacious, and comfortable.

Designed in South Africa by Simonis-Voogd, is probably the best design in the Leopard family of catamarans. Its two hulls are vacuum-bagged using balsa core to offer maximum firmness while ensuring that the weight is on the minimum. This is done by articulately regulating the level of resin in the layup. With such types of hull shapes, this catamaran sailboat is very fast and can consistently clock 12 knots of speed against the currents.

The boat is also designed with shallow keels as they're filled with closed-cell polyurethane foam that's of great importance in increasing buoyancy and preventing water ingress. To enhance the safety of the vessel, the stern and bow both have bulkheads that are essential in keeping out that water if the sailboat is involved in a collision.

The hulls of this boat are deep and narrow, particularly below the waterline. They also curve higher up to practically reduce the wetted surface area while offering enough deck space and plenty of room for accommodations. Its cockpit is another excellent feature thanks to its lavish spaces that give you the chance of kicking back and relaxing.

This boat is designed to offer superior livability, quick and easy to handle features, as well as enough space for friends and family. It is designed with beautiful lines and immense practicality for those who want to go on long cruising voyages.

Antares 44i

While many people often believe that voluminous cruising catamarans should be used as charter boats, the Antares 44i brings a very different perspective altogether. Designed in Argentina as a complete bluewater catamaran, this is a boat that's specifically built for private boat owners looking for a sturdy and well-equipped bluewater cruiser. This is an absolutely gorgeous catamaran that has a fully-equipped cockpit just to ensure that you can safely operate it even when shorthanded.

Like most catamarans, the Antares 44i is designed with features that allow for long-distance voyages. It comes with a minimum bridge deck clearance of 30 inches, which is essential in mitigating bridge deck slap. The helm station is designed to offer excellent visibility over the coach roof without having to perch the helmsman high above the cockpit.

If you're planning to make those long-distance cruising to exotic places, you'll appreciate this boat's layout. The galley is put down in the port hull so that it doesn't compromise the size of the galley and the saloon. The forward-facing navigation station is up there with the best and is up to offshore standards. And that's not all; the Antares 44i comes with good mounting points for electronics, a large table, comfortable seats, and provides brilliant visibility outside.

This boat is perfectly suited for extended offshore cruising and is a great reminder for anyone who thinks that all catamarans are charter boats and all offshore boats are monohulls.

{{boat-info="/boats/dolphin-ocema-42"}}

Designed by Philipe Pouvreau in northern Brazil, the Dolphin Ocema 42 is a truly unique catamaran sailboat that goes against the conventional norm of catamarans. It is equipped with daggerboards, which are essential in enabling it to point higher on the wind while reducing the wetted surface when running or anchoring in shallow surfaces. This, however, requires a higher level of expertise in sailing. This is because lifting the daggerboards higher up will expose the rudders while the daggerboards can also interfere with the hulls in the event that the vessel runs aground.

But even with that, the Dolphin 42 balances incredible performance and cruising comfort in a very compact package; something that is not very easy in bluewater cruising. That's why it's designed using a foam core to make it lightweight by reducing weight wherever possible. This vessel will most likely never let you down if you want to circumnavigate the bluewater on a high-performance boat that is safe and comfortable.

So if you've been looking for a real sailing catamaran that doubles up as a very comfortable liveaboard sailboat , look no further than the Dolphin 42.

{{boat-info="/boats/catana-50"}}

Regarded as the best built and most stylish cruising multihull, the Catana 50 is a very huge catamaran sailboat. Measuring about 50 feet long with a beam of about 26 feet, this is an amazing catamaran that will test your sailing skills as a single sailor or if you're planning to sail shorthanded.

This boat is designed with a rig that gives you the option of using either a screecher or a self-tending jib. This may seem complex since the sheets are led to winches near each wheel while all other controls lead to a centerline winch that's located in the cockpit. But even with that, this sailboat can be easily tacked once on the course.

This is a real performance-oriented catamaran with efficient hulls and rigs allowing for top speed. This vessel is also designed with a long waterline and a subtle underwater shape at the bow to help in increasing volume while minimizing wave drag. The stern platforms can help in stretching the waterline length while also providing easy access from a dock or a dinghy. The board trunks are also very strong and sturdy to protect the integrity of the hulls if a collision occurs.

In essence, this is a very modern catamaran that's designed to safely make long-distance passages with ease. It is subdued in terms of styling but this doesn't mean that it falls short as far as performance is concerned.

Atlantic 42

{{boat-info="/boats/atlantic-42"}}

Designed in 1993, the A42 has cultivated a legion of fiercely loyal fans thanks to its efficiency and aesthetic. This is the smallest of the Atlantic cruising catamaran line and is hugely popular with sailors thanks to its ease of handling, ocean-going capabilities, and superb use of space. From the forward cockpit, pilothouse to the sleeping cabins, and brilliant galleys everything about this cat is a true classic.

Unlike most catamarans, the Atlantic 42 is designed with a waist-high cockpit that's located forward of the pilothouse just behind the mast. It brings forth a solid construction thanks to the large metal girder-like bearers that run across the bulkheads. This helps the vessel in having the utmost strength, better air circulation under the engine, and a high level of flexibility as far as the size of the engine and its positioning is concerned.

Initially, the boat's style and its outlook were considered conservative but it soon became clear that it is built of high-quality materials and to last. The internal construction of the boat is impressive, to say the least. The exterior looks very beautiful and perhaps much more beautiful than most boats today. Its large aft cabin accommodation is a top drawer while the space separating en suite heads and shower compartments are considered a bonus.

{{boat-info="/boats/fountaine-pajot-bahia-46"}}

If you were to board the French-built Fountaine Pajot Bahia 46, you'll agree that the high-quality of workmanship, layout, and efficient use of space is quite exciting, to say the least. This cat remains very popular among sailors thanks to its easy handling features and incredible performance under the sails. Well, this may not come as a surprise to many of us given that the Fountain Pajot is known for building some of the most remarkable cruising catamarans out there that it can be quite overwhelming to narrow down to a single vessel, but the Bahia 46 simply stands out.

This vessel is designed with hulls that are broader than those of many other catamarans. It's also designed with centerboards and daggerboards that are meant to enhance its performance. These are essential in minimizing draft while ensuring reliability, generous bilge, and in helping to protect the rudders and propellers.

This boat is big enough to manage any type of serious offshore sailing. This is one of the best cruising catamarans for anyone looking for the right vessel for long-distance sailing. This vessel has a very more generous rig than most cruising catamarans, which is essential in enhancing its performance. The six-post Bimini is very strong and clean and can perfectly hold dinghies.

In terms of its look, the Bahia 36 is designed with gorgeous lines with the deck and hulls sculpted with lines that add a touch of elegance to the overall look of an already excellent catamaran sailboat.

Gemini 105MC

{{boat-info="/boats/gemini-105mc"}}

Whether you're looking for a comfortable catamaran vessel to take you for a weekend sailing trip or a long sabbatical vacation on the oceans, the Gemini 105MC is a very satisfactory liveaboard catamaran vessel that offers spacious accommodation, thoughtful design, and a stable cruising platform for anyone who wants to have some good time on the water.

Designed by the legendary Tony Smith, this is somewhat a sailing cottage. Like a land cottage, it is cozy, comfortable, and very safe. This is essentially a 35 feet catamaran that offers great value for any sailing looking for a reasonably-priced catamaran sailboat for the weekend or holiday cruising.

This boat is designed with incredibly slim hulls, which are teardrop-shaped with flat bottoms and smaller wetted surface area. This is to ensure that drag is minimized and to lead to more leeway under sail. Each of the boat's hull is designed with a kick-up centerboard is of great importance in enhancing the vessel's windward pointing capability. This boat also has its rudders raised to enable it to seamlessly cruise in shallow waters where most vessels would otherwise run aground.

The eccentric narrow beam, which measures about 40% of the boat's length, is very different from today's 50%. However, its low center helps in keeping its stable, upright, and of course, safe.

Lagoon 450 F

{{boat-info="/boats/lagoon-450-f"}}

If you're looking for a catamaran sailboat that offers prestige at its peak, look no further than the Lagoon 450. This cat is widely known for offering an all-around comfort without compromising its beauty, spaciousness, class, and elegance. This is an elaborate French catamaran that brings to the table fantastic craftsmanship while leaving nothing to chance.

This is a very safe 45 feet catamaran that's not just comfortable but also very luxurious. The deck layout is centered on an amazing flybridge, which has been redesigned and redefined to offer both the traditional and modern outlook. You can very easily access the bridge, engine controls, steering station in a matter of seconds. As a result, this boat is efficiently designed to give you the ultimate control of almost every situation while on the water.

The spacious and luxurious interior of this boat is worth experiencing. The cabins and saloons are perfectly lit. We're talking about four to six cabins, eight to twelve berths, and up to four bathrooms. In essence, this boat can comfortably sleep eight to twelve people. This boat is designed to offer ultra-modern accommodations and amenities that come with little but amazing touches; all designed to make your life inside the catamaran enjoyable.

{{boat-info="/boats/gunboat-62"}}

An original performance catamaran cruiser from the iconic Gunboat manufacturer, the Gunboat 62 has truly cemented its place as one of the best catamaran sailboats to ever grace the oceans. Honestly speaking, this cat-inspired a whole range of other incredible boats including HH66 Catamaran and the Balance 526.

This is a boat that can perform admirably well in storms with a speed of over 35 knots despite being built using epoxy and E-glass with carbon-fiber structural components. It's designed with a distinct angular outline than most catamaran sailboats of its size and category. This is a vessel that was built for people looking to add more stuff and more gear for their voyages. In other words, you can have all the gear and equipment on this boat and still outperform a racing monohull of the same size.

Thanks to its lightweight feature, this vessel can sail upwind at speeds of over 17 knots and pinch up to 30 degrees. Just for comparison, the Gunboat 62 can tack through 95 degrees and still outperform the best racing monohulls. This boat is designed with a comfortable helm seat that offers 360-degree visibility as well as plenty of storage space, a functional working surface, and a luxurious cabin. Like many performance catamarans, the Gunboat 62 can attain about 20 knots if the conditions are right.

Privilege 615

{{boat-info="/boats/privilege-615"}}

Combining elegance, comfort, and style, the Privilege 615 is a lovely catamaran sailboat that seems to be always ready for a long offshore voyage. The roots of this incredible cat can be traced back to the 1980s when Philippe Jeantot opened up a boat-building company in France. As one of the best productions from the company, the privilege 615 sports a flybridge that comes complete with twin wheels, a sprawling sunbed, and other excellent features that will make your bluewater cruising a breeze.

Whether you want the charter version or a privately-owned version, the Privilege 615 is one of the most versatile catamaran sailboats. Step inside this vessel and you'll instantly notice the quality of the wood finish and the elegance of design. The advanced navigation station is not only ultra-modern but is perfectly stationed at a dedicated corner where you can control everything while still having a conversation with your friends and family.

This boat comes with multiple sleeping configurations to ensure that you and your guests can live aboard the boat for months on end. Although the boat appears like some sort of maze on the inside, you'll easily get used to it when you enter the forward section. That's not all; this boat has gorgeous lines that make the exterior beautiful just like the interior. Its sleek profile, incredible volume, and versatile interior make it one of the best catamaran sailboats out there.

There you have it; these are the best catamaran sailboats out there. It doesn't matter the one you choose, these cats will make your day out on the water and will serve you just right for your offshore voyages or for day sailing along the bays.

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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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Sailing A Catamaran

20 steps for a beginner to take before deciding to live on a sailing catamaran.

When I started thinking about living on a sailing catamaran, I really only had the experience of a couple of weeks on charter cats. After several months and countless hours of research, I learned many fascinating things. So what are 20 Steps for a Beginner to Take Before Deciding to Live on a Sailing Catamaran?

The 20 Steps for a Beginner to Take Before Deciding to Live on a Sailing Catamaran are:

• Learn to sail

Get Certified

Charter a Sailing Catamaran

• Attend a boat show
• Contact a Catamaran Broker

Set Your Boat Budget

• Buying new or used?
• Talk to the Bank
• Selling your house?
• Renting your house?
• What to do with your pets?
• Equip for your Lifestyle
• Start out by land
• Work out the kinks
• Create your monthly budget
• Make a list of your boat needs, wants, not important
• Get networked with fellow cruisers
• Learn how to predict the weather
• Attend Cruiser’s University
• Don’t buy the first boat you see
• Do your homework

Learn to Sail

You don’t have to learn to sail before buying your catamaran, but it may shorten your learning curve. One of the best ways to learn to sail is to start with a dinghy sized sailboat at a local club. Take a sailing class to learn the basics. Having a small sailboat is a plus in that they react almost instantly to every maneuver that you perform. Large sailboats may have a 15 to 20 second reaction time. This instant reaction time helps teach you about the wind, sails and how each action that you perform affects the boat.

Getting a certification from an accredited sailing school and/or association will be beneficial in many ways. First, you will learn valuable lessons from experienced sailors that will help you navigate and make decisions when situations arise. Next, your instructor can be a mentor for years to come. Further, being an educated sailor provides confidence that will be much appreciated by your crew when challenges arise. Finally, many insurance companies will require this before they issue a policy on your boat.

This is a great opportunity to spend some significant time on a sailboat. Charter a boat that is similar in size and layout to the one you are considering. During your charter, think about living on a boat VS vacationing. What will be important to you as a full time liveaboard? Make good notes. You may find out that you can live in a much smaller size boat than you originally imagined.

Attend a Boat Show (or two or three)

Find a boat show that has boats like the one you want to purchase. This might be a good opportunity to fly out to one of the larger shows like Annapolis or Miami or Cannes which have many different makes, models and layouts. While at the boat show attend some seminars or courses like Cruisers University. Talk to and network with fellow sailors. This is another great opportunity to prepare before you purchase.

Walk on as many boats as possible to learn floor plans, sizes and brands. Attend as many boat shows as possible. Learn about the mechanics of each boat and what the previous owner used it for. Is it set up for the same usage as your plans? If coming out of a Charter, plan what you will need to invest in it to make it ready for you? Look at used boats – not just new boats and boats that fit your budget.

Contact a Broker that Specializes in the Type of Boat you Want

Now that you have done some basic research on your own, have learned the basics of sailing and are on your way to becoming certified, have attended a boat show and walked on and in several different types of boats, have spent a week or two on a charter, you have some basic knowledge and hopefully a direction as to what type of lifestyle you want to live and type of boat you want to have. Now is the time to contact a broker.

When to Contact a Broker

You can do this earlier on in the process, so they can help move you along in your research faster, but I believe that a little time spent preparing yourself will make you ready when the right boat comes along and won’t make you feel pressured into buying before you are ready or having regrets on letting the perfect boat get away. By the way, experienced sailors will tell you that there is no perfect boat. Every boat has its pro’s and con’s which is why the more prepared you are, the better fit you will find.

You may already have your budget figured out before contacting a broker. If you are buying new and have attended a boat show or two and already know how you plan to use your boat, then you may already have this one figured out. Keep in mind that when buying new, you will still need to equip the boat with the gear and equipment needed for your lifestyle.

Buying Used?

If you are buying a used boat, there are so many more factors to consider. Look at the age and condition of the many systems on the boat. Have a professional survey completed and be present during the survey so that you can get a face to face explanation of what was found. This is the time to ask the expert specific questions about the boat, its systems and maintenance items. Consider what extras you need to add and what will need to be repaired or upgraded and ask about costs.

How Big of a Catamaran can you Afford?

Whether you are buying new or used, you should have a price range that you are comfortable with. I have heard many stories about cruisers having to cut their journey short because they ran out of money. Picking a little smaller boat, may be better on your pocketbook and stress level. It may also give you a cushion should a costly repair spring up.

The Right Time to Talk to the Bank

If you are planning to finance your boat purchase, ask your broker to put you in touch with a few lenders. Call them before you find your boat. Ask them about the programs they offer. Pay close attention to any limitations. Some lenders will only lend on newer boats that are 10 years old or newer. Understanding the interest rate, down payment requirement and any lender specific qualifications may lead to in a certain direction towards a certain type or age of boat. This is good to know ahead of time before you spend money on a survey only to find out, you can’t get it financed.

Sell Your House?

What is your timeline for living on a boat? For most people it is a limited timeframe. It isn’t a forever home or plane. My plan is to circumnavigate the globe. I think this will take us two years. So for us, we need to think about what will we be doing in two years? Where will be want to live in two years? Do we want to go back to the community that we left or forge ahead to new, unexplored places? Those questions plus your finances will help you to determine if you should sell your home or keep it.

Keep Your House?

Perhaps you love your home, neighborhood and community and want to keep your house. Then you need to think about renting out your house. Will you do an Air Bnb or VRBO type rental or go more for longer term renters? What will you do with you possessions if you sell your home? Is your home ready to sell? Is your home ready to rent? How much rent can you expect? Can you live off of the rent money that you house will take in after you pay the rental agent and expenses?

What To Do With Your Pets?

Do you have pets? If so, can you bring them on board? Do you want to bring them on board? If you are leaving your home country, will you be allowed to bring the pets into your destination country or countries? What documentation will you need to bring your pets into a new country? Are your pets worth bringing on board? These are just some of the questions and consideration for you to think about when planning for pets on your catamaran.

Equipping Your Boat for Your Lifestyle

When choosing a boat, you will need to equip it for your lifestyle and plans. If you are going to live in marinas in warm, tropical weather, then you will certainly need air-conditioning. If you are going to circumnavigate, then you must have a water maker, good navigation equipment, and safety gear. If you are planning to spend a lot of time at anchor, then you’ll want to have a good solar set-up that will be able to run your refrigerator(s) and freezer(s). If you are doing a crossing, make sure you have enough refrigeration. Back-up systems for the critical components may be important as well.

Start Out By Land

Plan your first 6 months near land and take short trips until you get used to the boat. Spending time near land when you first move aboard gives you the opportunity to learn your boat and learn about living on your boat. Take note of how much food you go through in a week. Make good notes and think about where you are planning to travel so you can think about how you are going to provision the boat.

Working out the Kinks

Use this time to work out any problems with the boat and to really get to know your boat from sailing to motoring to anchoring. If you are planning on spending a lot of time at anchor, then take some overnights away from marinas out at anchor. Learn about how your solar system works and what you can and can’t run off of it. Will you need to run your generators every day for a time or do you have enough solar to power your critical components. Can you live without air-conditioning? In the marina, you are on shore power, but this is a good test of your systems and your usage of those systems. How much water do you use? Test how long you can go on a tank of water. Will your water maker run off of the solar or do you need to run the generator to make water?

Creating Your Monthly Budget

Create a monthly budget that you can live with. The items in the budget may need to change once you go from theory to reality and as you move around, but stick to the numbers as closely as possible. If you are starting in the US, then moving off shore, it is best to provision as heavily as possible before you leave. Items in the US are most often priced better than in the Bahamas, BVI’s or elsewhere in the Caribbean and you may not always be able to find the same items you are used to. Make sure to plan your food items, fuel for both the boat and the dinghy, restaurants (if you plan to eat out), misc. items and don’t forget boat repairs (plan on 5% to 10% of the cost of the boat per year).

Create Your List of Needs, Wants & Not Important

When deciding on a boat, create a list of needs, wants and things that are not important to you. You might also leave room on the bottom of your list for things you don’t want and to make comments about each boat. This one is an important step when buying a boat.

There is NO Perfect Boat!

As I mentioned previously there is no perfect boat. You will need to look at each boat and what it offers. One boat may sail lighter and faster, but have limitations as to how much provisions and items you have on board (lighter boats typically equal less cargo). Another boat may have the perfect floor plan, but may need lots of work, etc. Make a list with columns. One column will have the item or feature, the next will have need, then want, then not important. Think about all of the features of a boat and write them down or enter them into an Excel spreadsheet. Now put an “x” in the column of where that item falls on you list of needs, wants or not important. With every boat that you look at, use this list to help you to evaluate it.

Get Networked with Fellow Cruisers

Join a cruiser network or start out in popular cruising destinations. Meet, socialize and ask questions to experienced cruisers. Cruising can be lonely, if you want it to be, but from I have learned, cruisers are some of the most friendly and outgoing people you will ever meet. Every cruiser has a common purpose – cruising. Every cruiser has challenges that face every day. This gives commonality which makes it much easier to meet, approach and talk to fellow cruisers.

Finding Cruiser Networks

Beyond approaching cruisers in marinas or in your dinghy at anchor, there are many cruiser networks. Some are on-line or in social media, some are in the form of organized rallies where you sail together in pre-planned, mapped out routes and locations. You can find some of these clubs by simply doing a google search. Boat shows are fantastic ways to build your network. Asking fellow cruisers that you meet at the shows or elsewhere what social networks they belong to is another excellent way to find groups with similar interests as you.

Different Strokes for Different Folks

Even within the cruising network, there are many different types of people with different interests and in different stages of their lives. This is one thing that makes cruising so cool. It appeals to different groups of people. Cruisers with kids may have different networks than those that are single looking for more of a party atmosphere. Keep looking until you find your network or networks.

Learn all about weather and how to avoid bad weather.

The weather may be the single, most important influencer on a sailor’s life other than maintaining your boat. On land, the weather is important so we know if we need to take an umbrella with us to keep dry when we run from our car to the grocery store or a restaurant. At sea, bad weather can not only be an inconvenience it may be the difference between life and death.

Predicting the Weather

Learning to read weather patterns and learning how to use tools like Predict Wind, allows cruisers to pick and choose which days they will sail, what distance they plan on sailing, and may even determine the route they take. Knowing present and future wind directions are helpful when choosing a protected anchorage. What starts out as the leeward side of an island may quickly change to win-ward and a rough, uncomfortable anchorage. Cruisers University has an intensive class on weather.

Attend Cruisers University

Cruisers University and other seminars like it provide useful information on a variety of topics for cruisers by cruisers. There is nothing better than experience and the speakers at these courses bring their experiences to you.

Seminars that are offered include (this is a partial list):

• Diesel Engine Maintenance,
• Marine Weather Forecasting,
• Marine Electrical Systems,
• Sewing for Sailor,
• Anchoring For a Good Night’s Sleep
• Bahamas Bound – Cruising the Abacos
• Cruising and Living in Hurricane Latitudes
• The Chesapeake to the Caribbean
• Cruising on a Budget; Silver, Gold Platinum
• Docking and Line Handling for Couples
• The Efficient Boat Fridge
• Electrical Systems – Understanding and Troubleshooting
• Great Products You Need to Know About
• Heavy Weather Sailing
• Maintaining Your Boat Above and Below the Waterline
• Maintaining Your Diesel Engine 101
• Moving Your Business Abroad
• Managing the ICW; North to South
• Offshore Energy Management & Design
• Off Shore Rigging and Sails – When Things Go Wrong
• OMG I Bought a Boat – Now What?
• Plugged In – Power Cord Safety
• Provisioning – From List to Last Bite
• Route Planning
• Safety at Sea

Don’t Buy the First Boat You See!

Remember the old saying about there being many fish in the sea? Well, the same holds true for boats. There are many boats for sale. In order to know what is available to you, you really need to see several boats before making your decision. Before finalizing your purchase, you will be paying for a survey which includes a haul out. This will be costly so be choosy. Also, just because you spent several thousand dollars on the survey, don’t be afraid to walk away if you aren’t comfortable with the boat and what the survey found. Use your list of needs, wants and not important to help you. Do your homework. Afterall, you will be spending a lot of time on your boat. It needs to fit you and your lifestyle.

What Makes a Living on a Catamaran Different Than Other Boats?

Living on a sailing catamaran is like many other boats except that the width of a catamaran makes it more comfortable and stable under most conditions. Living on a cat is also different than most monohull’s because the living areas (with the exception of the state rooms and heads), like the salon and galley, are up at the same level as the cockpit which allows for more openness and easier to go from in to out. Finally, the living area is much larger per linear foot than a monohull.

Do Your Homework!

This post can’t possibly cover everything you need to know, but is intended to invoke thought and questions to help provide insight into some of the topics that one should think about and research before deciding to live full time on a sailing catamaran. The one, common theme in this post is that you need to do your homework before you buy and before you decide to buy and before you decide to live on your catamaran. If you do so, you can enjoy your time cruising and will have increased the odds of loving it. Happy Sailing!

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Best Catamarans For Beginners (Liveaboard, Beach, Cheap and more)

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In this article, I will list the best Catamarans for beginners sorted into the following categories; Ocean sailing, Cheap sailing , Weekend sailing, Beach catamarans, catamarans for kids, and ends with a discussion of the specific demands for liveaboards.

There is no such thing as a “beginners catamaran,” but some boats are better suited for beginners than others. Such a boat should be cheap, easy to handle, and can be repaired on your own. Most boats are not like this, continue reading to understand why!

This article is intended to get you looking in the right direction for the perfect boat for your specific needs.

CHECK OUT BEST CATAMARANS UNDER 200k

Table of Contents

Best Beginner Catamarans for Ocean sailing

I have chosen boats around 40ft in length ( read this to understand why 40ft is the right size for an offshore catamaran). I have also looked into whether or not the boat is possible to sail singlehanded; I believe this to be an important aspect since sooner or later, parts of the crew will get seasick or in any other way unable to sail the boat. This makes it essential that it is possible to sail without assistance.

Another aspect to consider in this category; is the boat equipped with trampolines or a sold deck? this makes a world of difference when it comes to offshore and big wave sailing. A trampoline will shorten the time it takes from when the bows get buried under a big wave until all water is cleared off the deck, and the boat can sail again; this is very important so that you avoid pitchpoling and capsizing your boat.

READ MORE ON HOW TRAMPOLINES WORK!

The ease of maintenance should not be overlooked on a blue water catamaran , easy access to both engines while underway is an important safety aspect. If for example, you need to go outside and stand on the sugar scoops or hang off the stern (to access the engines), this might compromise safety and even risk a man overboard situation.

Living on a boat, which you will have to if you intend on doing long crossings, requires a lot of space for the crew and a lot of room for food, diesel, equipment, and tools. Having enough space to stand up and cook your food greatly enhances your living standards while sailing.

FOUNTAINE PAJOT LUCIA 40

Lucia 40 is known for being easy to sail; (many argue that this is partly due to the use of a low hanging boom which increases accessibility). On boats that use a flybridge, the boom is situated very high and can make handling difficult.

The visibility on this cat is excellent and thus increases the feeling of being under control since you can keep a 360 outlook on your surroundings.

The Lagoon 380 is the world’s most common cruising catamaran ; over one thousand boats have left the production facilities during its production time. This means it is a tried and true boat with a big community and, therefore, a lot of knowledge and experience that you can learn from.

It is a sturdy ocean crosser, which is still easy to handle due to its small size. The 380 is not a race boat, but it is very comfortable for its size, and it has a decent level of performance.

Since the Lagoon has been in production for so long (from 1999 to 2019 if I am not mistaking), then there are, of course, variations in design and performance depending on what year you choose.

The Leopard 44 is a very sturdy and well-built boat from South Africa; the exciting thing with this model is the forward cockpit. The forward cockpit is accessible through the central area, which means that you no longer have to go out and around to reach the bow; not only is this very practical, it also makes sense out of a safety perspective.

From the forward cockpit, you will have full visibility of what’s coming ahead of you, perfect for sunny days where you want to enjoy the excellent weather, but also maintain control over your surroundings.

FOUNTAINE PAJOT SABA 50

The Saba 50 is often spoken about as a fast boat where many sailors attest to regularly achieving speeds above 10kts and sometimes up to 13+. These speeds are attained through using a lighter construction where the cabin and deck are molded into a single part instead of several, bolted together. This design makes the boat lightweight and more robust.

In contrast to many other catamarans, and thanks to the fixed keels, the Saba 50 sails pretty well upwind, 

Best Beginner Catamarans for Weekend Sailing

The demands on a weekend sailing boat differ in many ways from an ocean-going vessel. Since usually coastal weather doesn’t include stormy seas and giant waves, the need for a trampoline is reduced, and a solid deck absolutely makes sense! 

Interior space on a coastal cruiser is less of a factor , yes it is nice to stand tall and cook, but most people can fully enjoy a few days of sailing without all the necessities of your house back onshore. Some even argue that this is the beauty of weekend sailing, to come back home and enjoy a warm shower and a big sofa.

Safety should always be the primary concern  when sailing, but when the risk of encountering storms is low, and a safe harbor is close, there are some gear and skills that are not as important as during an offshore passage.

Communications can many times be reduced to a single VHF  radio since you most often will have cellular reception on your phone, and while sailing close to shore, a life raft might also be of less significance. I want to point out that this is merely a guideline, and it is very much up to the captain of the boat to decide what equipment is necessary and what is not.

Having enough bridge deck clearance is fundamental on an offshore boat since heading upwind and having big waves slam into the boat will tire out the crew and increase wear on the ship. But sailing close to shore, you are more likely to encounter choppy bays and small waves, thus reducing the need for high clearance.

Gemini Legacy 35

The Legacy 35 is an American classic and offers some interesting and useful features. The small draft of only 34 inches opens up for coming really close to shore without damaging the boat. This can be very useful when trying to find your perfect spot that is not already filled with boats.

Since it is also very narrow, the boat can be put on a truck and moved to wherever you want it to go without employing special machines or trucks.

The small size also adds to reduce costs since you will be able to dock in a standard size slip and therefore pay standard slip fees.

The Endeavor is easy to handle and an elegant catamaran that fits the costal cruising mold perfectly. T he boat offers lots of inside and outside space to enjoy a day on the water. 

The boat easily sits six people, and each hull offers privacy from the other.

It employs trampolines instead of solid decking, which reduces weight and increases safety.

This is one of the few boats of its size and price range built with a solid fiberglass hull and not with a balsa core. Since there is no core that can get wet and start to rot, there is little chance of having to do hull repairs unless you wreck your boat on rocks or any other type of notable mishap.

The sloop rig also makes it easier for less physically able sailors to handle the sails, and for a boat of this size, the bridge deck clearance is ok.

Best Beginner Catamarans for Cheap Sailing

In boating,  most costs are in relation to the size of your boat . What I mean by this is if you are on a bigger boat, this boat will require bigger sails, sturdier standing rigging, more bottom paint, more space in the marina, and more massive machinery to haul you out of the water. All of this means higher expenses, so a critical factor when trying to sail on a minimum budget is to keep your boat size to a minimum. 

Check out  this article  on some in-depth information on how to choose the right sized boat.

Another aspect is  how much money you will have to spend on repairs . Most larger catamarans utilize a twin-engine system; this means a lot of benefits such as an extra engine if one fails, but it also doubles maintenance cost, and you will also have to  repair   two engines instead of one , something that sooner or later will happen. If you chose a smaller catamaran, there are options with single engines, such as the 26’Heavenly Twins or Prout Quest 31 listed below.

26 Heavenly Twins

Made contemporary famous by the youtube couple of the channel Sailing Kittiwake the heavenly twins is a small but very cheap boat. Kittiwake claims to have sailed and lived on this boat in the meds for under 700 USD a month, which I would argue is very cheap. You can find more info on how they did their calculations on their website.

The boat in itself is small, and that, of course, comes with some disadvantages, low bridge deck clearance, and a lot of banging heading upwind, the narrow beam making it rolly when wakes start growing.

A cool feature is the aft cabin, which is separate from the main cabin and creates a separate space aft of the cockpit.

Prout Quest 31

Buying the Prout Quest might initially be a little more expensive, but the robustness and standard to which it is built by is argued by many to be of greater importance in the long run. Prouts might be a little slammy going upwind, and they are definitely not the fastest, but if you are on a tight budget but still have big ambitions, then this might be perfect for you.

In comparison to the Heavenly Twins, the Prouts are considered more of a bluewater boat that can handle big seas. I might not be overly confident about that statement, but I believe it is a better fit for offshore adventure then the Heavenly Twins.

Price: USD 39 000

Catalac Catamarans have a slightly divided reputation. Some say they are way too small for any big ocean sailing, but some would argue it might be small, but it is so well built you can take it anywhere you want.

And maybe this is the reason why you still can see Catalacs crossing the Atlantic safely.

Compared to many other catamarans, the Catalacs are built with a solid fiberglass core below the waterline; this is great if you’re looking for an older boat since the risk of a crack in the fiberglass, making the balsa core rot doesn’t exist. 

The Catalac is nothing exciting when it comes to speed, but it does well on safety due to its low mast height and a wide beam. The pricing of a Catalac is usually much cheaper for something of the same age and condition.

Best Beginner Beach Catamarans 

Beach catamarans get their name from how they enter and exit the water, you guessed it! by pushing it off or up the beach. This is possible since the cat is made from lightweight materials, is small, and is configured with two hulls instead of one (a monohull).

Most beach cats consist of two pontoons fixed together by a frame covered with a trampoline instead of a solid deck. Usually, they are easy to assemble and disassemble, making it easy to transport the boat to and from the beach.

Beach Catamarans are very small boats made for water activities/sports rather than transportation as in the case of a “regular” catamaran.

Different types of Beach catamarans

Depending on your goals with the sailing there are different types of beach catamarans to choose from;

• Singlehanders  are designed to be enjoyed by a single sailor; they are also optimized to be handled safely without assistance. One significant aspect of sailing alone is that you will significantly enhance learning speed since you will have to do everything on your own. The apparent downside is that you will have no one on board to share laughs and ask questions.
• Family / Multiperson  are, just as the name implies, a vessel made to be sailed by more than one person. It is an enjoyable way to sail with friends and is an excellent way to learn from a more experienced sailor since you can have them on board and let them give you feedback in the moment.
• Beach catamarans for cruising  are usually slower but offer more space and can relatively comfortable seat, 2-6 crew members making it perfect for a family that wants to enjoy the water in a less intense way than sail racing.
• Catamarans for kids  are the smallest and lightest of them all. Some even encompass extra safety features as; no sharp edges and increased ease of maneuverability, everything needed for a small child to start sailing safely, and her parents feeling at ease.

Singlehanders  

Topcat k4x .

The TOPCAT k4x is lightweight(115Kg) and, therefore, suitable for beginners . Even though the price might seem high, as far as I can tell, this boat is of high quality and very customizable with a bigger sail area if wanting a little bit more sporty feel. 

The low weight also makes it possible to assemble, disassemble, and right a capsized boat without the need for extra help.

The boat is recommended for kids as young as ten all the way up to grandmas age.

Price: ~USD 9000

Even though this catamaran is longer than the K4X and allows up to four people on board, it is still possible to sail it singlehanded. T he K2X is a fast and reliable boat in the TOPCAT arsenal, and this particular model has increased buoyancy to allow for more people on board . 

Hobie Bravo

The Hobie Bravo is known for being one of the most simple and easy to sailboats there is, just perfect for this list 🙂 

In fact, the boat is so simple that it doesn’t even have a boom, only a mast, and two lines. Since it is also a rotomolded construction, which is very solid and robust, you don’t have to worry about breaking anything while beaching or docking.

Price: USD 4200

SPECIFICATIONS

• Length:  12′ / 3.65 m
• Beam:  4′ 5″ / 1.35 m

*Specifications from Hobie.com

Family / Multiperson

Just as the Hobie Bravo, the Nacra 500 does not use a boom, this makes it easy to assemble and more lightweight. The Nacra employes an automatic rudder system that folds up in case of collision.

With its almost 17ft, this is a somewhat bigger boat and, therefore, a little harder to handle, but on the upside, you will have more buoyancy and able to fit more people.

Price: USD 10 000

• Length: 5.0 M / 16.4 ft
• Beam:   2.44 M / 8.0 ft
• Crew Capacity: 1-4 / 1-4

Hobie Getaway

With its 17ft of length, the Getaway is a big catamaran suitable for up to 6 crew and family. The size of this catamaran makes for some excellent features such as extra storage . This cat is all about comfort, stability, and enjoying a day on the water with family and friends.

• Length Overall: 17 feet
• Beam: 7 feet 8 inches

Catamarans for Kids

A catamaran for kids should be small, easy to handle, stable, and allow the little sailor to make mistakes without risking severe injury. And most importantly, it should be fun to sail! Many parents think it is nice to have your kid on a catamaran where you can also join them in the same boat; this creates a team spirit that will make a strong bond between you and your child.

TOPCAT Chico

Chico is a small beginner catamaran that can be enjoyed by up to three little sailors. Since the hull is flat; it is straightforward to handle in tight spaces, perfect for a beginner wanting to learn in a safe and fun manner. 

Another cool aspect of the chico is that it has been designed to reduce sharp edges so that the kids are not in unnecessary risk of injury.

Hobie Catsy

This cat is easy to sail and easy to assemble, and just like most other Hobie’s, it is well built by one of the biggest beach catamaran producers you can find.

Price: USD 2500

SPECIFICATIONS  

• Length: 3.10 m / 10′ 2″
• Beam: 1.66 m / 5′ 5″

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

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